Overview

The Garmin Approach S62 Golf GPS Watch is a high-end device that brings advanced technology to your game. This watch features a 1.3-inch color touchscreen with a scratch-resistant ceramic bezel, offering a premium look and feel. With a battery life of up to 20 hours in GPS mode and 14 days in smartwatch mode, it ensures long-lasting performance on the course. Preloaded with maps for over 41,000 golf courses worldwide, it provides detailed course information, making it a reliable companion for golfers of all levels. The Approach S62 combines style and functionality in a way few other golf GPS devices do.

Features & Benefits

The Garmin Approach S62 is packed with features designed to enhance your game. The Virtual Caddie uses data on your typical shot distances to suggest the best club for each hole, while Hazard View provides a clear view of course hazards. For challenging shots, the PinPointer feature helps golfers navigate blind shots by indicating the direction of the pin. In addition, the PlaysLike Distance feature adjusts the yardage based on elevation changes, giving you accurate distances for uphill or downhill shots. Finally, the Green View option lets you manually adjust pin positions for precise distance measurements.

Best For

This Garmin golf watch is ideal for golfers seeking a feature-rich, high-performance GPS device. It's perfect for players who want to improve their game with precise data and advanced features. The customizable QuickFit bands make it easy to adapt to different wrist sizes and personal preferences, while the durable build ensures that it withstands the rigors of regular play. Whether you're a serious golfer looking for every possible edge or someone who simply enjoys the game, the Approach S62 is designed to enhance your experience with long-lasting durability and cutting-edge technology.

User Feedback

Many golfers appreciate the large, easy-to-read screen of the Garmin Approach S62, which makes navigating courses and accessing features effortless. The Virtual Caddie is particularly praised for helping with club selection, providing an intuitive way to choose the right club based on conditions. Battery life is another major plus, especially in smartwatch mode, where it can last for days without needing a recharge. However, some users have noted that the accuracy of the course maps could be improved in certain areas, particularly in more remote locations. Overall, it’s a well-loved device that combines practical functionality with a sleek design.

Pros

  • The large 1.3-inch color touchscreen makes navigation easy, even in bright outdoor conditions.
  • Battery life is impressive, offering up to 20 hours in GPS mode and 14 days in smartwatch mode.
  • The Virtual Caddie feature provides helpful club suggestions based on your typical distance and course conditions.
  • Preloaded with maps for over 41,000 golf courses worldwide, making it great for traveling golfers.
  • Customizable QuickFit bands allow users to personalize the device for comfort and style.
  • The PinPointer feature helps golfers navigate blind shots, a useful addition for tricky courses.

Cons

  • Some users have reported inconsistencies with course map accuracy, which could be frustrating during a round.
  • The device may feel bulky for golfers with smaller wrists, potentially affecting comfort.
  • Certain advanced features like PlaysLike Distance could be overwhelming for less experienced players.
  • The price point is relatively high, which may be a barrier for casual or beginner golfers.
  • The watch's screen may scratch easily if not properly cared for, despite the ceramic bezel.
  • The course map data may not always be fully up-to-date, which could lead to navigation issues on some courses.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from a variety of sources across multiple languages, we’ve gathered a comprehensive overview of this Garmin Approach S62 Golf GPS Watch. The ratings reflect the true performance, both positive and negative, as experienced by real users, with low-quality reviews such as spam or incentivized feedback filtered out. Both the strengths and pain points are reflected in the scores, offering a clear picture of how this GPS device performs in different contexts around the world.

Battery Life
91%
Many users are pleased with the long-lasting battery life, particularly in smartwatch mode. With up to 14 days of use between charges, it's ideal for those who want a reliable device for multiple rounds of golf without frequent recharging.
A few users have noted that while the GPS mode performs well, the battery life can drain faster than expected with frequent use of features like GPS tracking, especially during extended rounds or when using additional functions like Virtual Caddie.
Ease of Use
85%
Several buyers mention the straightforward setup and user-friendly interface of this device. The large touchscreen is responsive, and the menu layout is intuitive, making it easy to access key features even during a round of golf.
A small number of users found the interface a bit overwhelming, especially for those who are new to GPS golf watches. The number of features and settings can be intimidating for beginners, requiring a learning curve to fully understand all options.
Display Quality
89%
The 1.3-inch color touchscreen stands out for its clarity and brightness, even under direct sunlight. Users appreciate the sharpness of the display, which makes it easy to read course maps and distance information, even in challenging lighting conditions.
A few users have reported that the display could be a bit more vibrant in certain lighting, particularly on overcast days or when viewed at an angle. While the screen is generally good, it's not perfect in every condition.
Feature Set
92%
The diverse set of features, including the Virtual Caddie, Hazard View, and PlaysLike Distance, has earned praise for enhancing the golfing experience. Users enjoy having detailed course information, shot assistance, and hazard insights all on their wrist, helping them play smarter and improve performance.
Some reviewers have pointed out that while the feature set is robust, it can be overwhelming for users who prefer simplicity. Additionally, the Virtual Caddie feature isn't always 100% accurate, especially in challenging conditions or on less-known courses.
Build Quality
88%
Users appreciate the durability of this GPS watch, particularly the scratch-resistant ceramic bezel. It's built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, and many find it holds up well against the elements, including rain and dust.
A few users have mentioned that while the build quality is generally solid, the device can feel a bit bulky on the wrist. For those with smaller wrists, it might not feel as comfortable or lightweight as other models.
Navigation Accuracy
82%
18%
When the device is functioning optimally, it provides accurate and reliable distance readings to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as hazards. Many golfers find this information helpful for making informed club selections.
However, some users have experienced occasional inaccuracies in course mapping or GPS readings, particularly on less popular courses. The inconsistency in map accuracy can cause frustration when the device does not align with the actual layout of the course.
Virtual Caddie Performance
90%
The Virtual Caddie feature is highly praised for helping golfers make more informed decisions about club selection. By analyzing typical distances and course conditions, it provides valuable insights that help golfers optimize their game.
Though useful, some users have found that the Virtual Caddie occasionally suggests clubs that don't align with their own preferences or style of play. This can result in mixed experiences, especially for more experienced players who rely on their own judgment.
Customization Options
87%
The QuickFit bands are a standout feature, allowing users to easily switch out straps for a customized look or fit. This versatility adds a personal touch, and the wide range of compatible bands ensures comfort for long rounds.
While the customizable bands are a nice addition, some users have noted that the options for personalization are somewhat limited in terms of color or design. Additionally, certain band styles can feel a bit stiff or uncomfortable during extended wear.
App & Software Experience
80%
20%
The accompanying app is useful for syncing data and reviewing round stats, which helps golfers track their performance over time. Many users find it easy to navigate and appreciate the ability to monitor progress through detailed metrics.
However, the app experience can be hit or miss. A few users have reported syncing issues or bugs in the software, which can interrupt the user experience. These problems are frustrating, particularly for those relying on the app to analyze performance after rounds.
Water Resistance
91%
With a 5 ATM water resistance rating, this GPS watch holds up well to rain and splashes, and users feel confident wearing it in wet conditions without worrying about damage. It’s perfect for golfers who play in various weather conditions.
Although water-resistant, a small number of users have expressed concerns about the watch's durability in very wet conditions, like swimming or heavy downpours. Some feel it could handle more extreme exposure to water without issue, but it's not intended for full submersion.
Price to Feature Ratio
85%
For the advanced features and reliable performance, many users believe the price is well worth it. The high-quality display, extensive course database, and robust features like Virtual Caddie and PinPointer make this device a solid investment for serious golfers.
While many feel it’s a good value, others think the price is steep compared to other GPS golf watches. Some buyers expect more from the accuracy of the course maps and additional features at this price point, which can make it feel like a bit of a stretch for casual golfers.
Long-Term Durability
84%
The Garmin Approach S62 is praised for its long-term durability, with many users noting that it remains functional and in good condition even after months or years of use. The watch's solid construction and scratch-resistant features help it maintain its value over time.
Some users have noted that the watch can start to show signs of wear after extended exposure to rough conditions. The bezel may experience minor scratches, and the display might lose some of its sharpness over time, especially with heavy daily wear.

Suitable for:

The Garmin Approach S62 Golf GPS Watch is ideal for avid golfers who prioritize accuracy and performance in their gear. This device is particularly beneficial for players who want advanced features like Virtual Caddie and PinPointer to assist with club selection and navigating the course. Golfers seeking precision in shot distance and real-time hazard information will appreciate the extensive course database and customizable settings. Additionally, those who value long battery life will find the up to 20 hours of GPS mode usage and 14 days in smartwatch mode very practical for frequent rounds. The large 1.3-inch touchscreen is a plus for those who want clear visibility under various outdoor conditions, making it an excellent choice for regular players and those looking to improve their game with data-driven insights.

Not suitable for:

The Garmin Approach S62 Golf GPS Watch may not be the best fit for casual golfers or beginners who prefer simplicity. Its wide array of features, such as PlaysLike Distance and hazard navigation, could be overwhelming for those not accustomed to using detailed golf tech. Additionally, some users have noted that the course map accuracy can be inconsistent, which may frustrate players who rely heavily on flawless course data. This device may also feel bulky on smaller wrists, making it less suitable for those seeking a lightweight and comfortable watch for everyday wear. Those on a tight budget or who play golf infrequently may find other, more affordable GPS watches better suited to their needs.

Specifications

  • Display: 1.3-inch color touchscreen with high resolution for clear visibility.
  • Bezel: Scratch-resistant ceramic bezel for added durability and premium look.
  • Battery Life: Up to 20 hours in GPS mode and 14 days in smartwatch mode.
  • Course Maps: Preloaded with maps for over 41,000 golf courses worldwide.
  • Virtual Caddie: Suggests the best club based on distance and course conditions.
  • Hazard View: Displays hazards on the course for easier navigation.
  • PlaysLike Distance: Adjusts yardages for uphill and downhill shots to provide accurate distances.
  • PinPointer: Indicates pin direction on blind shots to assist in aiming.
  • Green View: Shows manual pin placement and quick distance reference to the flag.
  • Water Resistance: Water-resistant to 5 ATM, suitable for swimming and rain exposure.
  • Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth and ANT+ for wireless syncing and accessory compatibility.
  • GPS: Built-in GPS provides accurate course tracking and positioning.
  • Customizable Bands: Compatible with QuickFit bands for easy customization of the watch strap.
  • Weight: Lightweight design at 2.0 oz (57 g) for comfortable all-day wear.
  • Dimensions: Compact and sleek design with a 1.3-inch display size.
  • Sensors: Includes heart rate monitor, barometric altimeter, and accelerometer for fitness tracking.
  • Form Factor: Sporty and ergonomic design, suitable for both on and off-course use.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with the Garmin Connect app for performance tracking and software updates.
  • Charging: Charges via a magnetic charging cable for easy connection.

FAQ

The Garmin Approach S62 is a high-end golf GPS watch with a 1.3-inch color touchscreen, scratch-resistant ceramic bezel, and preloaded maps for over 41,000 golf courses worldwide. It features advanced tools like Virtual Caddie, Hazard View, PlaysLike Distance, PinPointer, and Green View to help improve your game.

The Garmin Approach S62 offers up to 20 hours of battery life in GPS mode and up to 14 days in smartwatch mode. This makes it ideal for extended use on the course and as a daily smartwatch.

While the Garmin Approach S62 provides detailed maps for over 41,000 golf courses, some users have noted that the accuracy of the course maps could be improved in certain areas. It's important to check for updates periodically to ensure accuracy.

Yes, the Garmin Approach S62 is compatible with QuickFit bands, allowing you to easily swap out bands for a personalized look and feel. You can choose from a variety of colors and materials to suit your style.

Yes, the Garmin Approach S62 is designed for golfers who want advanced features, but its easy-to-use interface and helpful features like the Virtual Caddie can also assist less experienced players. However, beginners may find some advanced features like PlaysLike Distance to be overwhelming.

The Virtual Caddie suggests the best club to use based on your typical shot distances and current course conditions. It helps you make more informed decisions, potentially improving your game by considering factors like wind and elevation.

Yes, the Garmin Approach S62 is water-resistant to 5 ATM, which means it can withstand being submerged in water up to 50 meters deep. It's safe to wear in the rain or while swimming, but avoid using it for scuba diving.

In addition to golf, the Garmin Approach S62 can be used as a fitness watch. It tracks steps, heart rate, and sleep, and offers multiple sports modes, making it suitable for activities like running, cycling, and swimming.

To update the course maps on the Garmin Approach S62, simply connect the device to the Garmin Express software via your computer. The software will guide you through the update process, ensuring your device has the latest course data.

The Garmin Approach S62 has a relatively large 1.3-inch screen, which may feel bulky on smaller wrists. While the watch is lightweight at 2 oz (57 g), users with smaller wrists might find it less comfortable, especially for extended wear.