Buying Guide for the Best Golf Watches For Men
Picking the right golf watch can be a game-changer for any golfer, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player. Golf watches do more than tell time—they provide useful information like distances to the green, hazard locations, and even track your game's progress. To make the best choice, consider how you play, the features you’ll actually use, and how much tech you’re comfortable with. Think about where you usually play, how detailed you want your tracking, and what will help you improve your game rather than distract you.GPS AccuracyGPS accuracy in a golf watch tells you how closely the watch can determine your position on the course. The main reason this matters is because the more precise the GPS, the more reliable the distances to greens, hazards, and fairways will be. GPS accuracy can range from basic (showing general distances) to highly accurate (showing your position within a meter or less). If you play on a wide variety of courses or you’re looking to shave strokes off your game, higher accuracy is valuable. Casual players on familiar courses may be fine with basic GPS.
Course CoverageCourse coverage refers to how many golf courses and layouts the watch supports in its database. Some watches cover only a few thousand courses, while others include many tens of thousands worldwide. If you travel or play different courses frequently, you’ll want a watch with extensive, up-to-date course coverage. Golfers who primarily play at one local course may not need as broad a database, but it's always good to ensure your favorite courses are included.
Display ReadabilityDisplay readability is how easy it is to see information on your watch screen in various lighting conditions. Some watches have color displays while others are black-and-white, and screen size and brightness also vary. If you often play in bright sunlight, look for a watch with a screen that remains clear and readable outdoors. If your eyesight isn’t perfect or you prefer larger text, prioritize watches with bigger displays or adjustable fonts.
Battery LifeBattery life is the amount of time your golf watch will operate before needing a recharge. Lightweight models may last a single round, while others can last several rounds or even weeks in standby. If you like long golfing days or don’t want to charge frequently, choose a watch with several rounds’ worth of battery life per charge. For occasional, short games or if you don't mind charging often, a shorter battery life might be fine.
Shot Tracking and ScorekeepingSome golf watches automatically record your shots, keep score, and provide analytics on your game. More basic watches may only track distance, while advanced options offer detailed shot history, club recommendations, and statistics. If you want to improve your game by analyzing patterns or sharing your progress, look for robust shot tracking and scorekeeping features. If you prefer a simple device, basic score tracking might be all you need.
Water ResistanceWater resistance refers to the watch’s ability to withstand exposure to rain, sweat, or accidental splashes. Ranges go from minimal splash resistance to full-on waterproof that’s safe for swimming. If you play in all weather conditions or sweat a lot, higher water resistance is a good idea. If you mostly play in good weather and handle your watch carefully, less protection may suffice.
Comfort and SizeComfort and size relate to how the watch feels on your wrist during long periods. Some watches are bulky and heavy, while others are slim and lightweight. If you dislike the feeling of a large device or you have a small wrist, choose a slimmer, lighter model. Those who prefer larger displays might accept a heavier watch, but comfort should always be a guiding factor since you’ll be wearing it for hours at a time.
Smartphone ConnectivityMany golf watches can connect to your smartphone to sync data, receive notifications, or update course maps. Some offer basic pairing just for syncing scores, while others show calls and messages on your wrist. If you like staying connected or want to upload stats to an app for review, consider models with strong smartphone compatibility. If you prefer fewer distractions, a watch without these features might be better.