Pros
Accurate GPS tracking
Simple and easy to use
Good battery life
Comfortable watch band
Visible readout in all light conditions
Fast satellite acquisition
Good screen visibility in harsh sunlight
Lightweight and sturdy design
Tracks various golf stats and club shots
Functions as a basic fitness tracker
Additional features like step counting and elapsed time
Reasonably priced with appropriate features
Easy setup with multiple clock face options
Cons
Initial setup can be challenging
Manual and instructions are poorly written
Not very effective in rainy conditions
Main Product Advantages
10 Accuracy
The GPS accuracy is exceptional, providing nearly spot-on distances, which is crucial for serious golfers and caddies.
9 Screen Visibility
The Garmin Approach S42 uses a transflective screen which provides better visibility in direct sunlight compared to OLED/AMOLED screens. This makes it easy to read in all lighting conditions.
9 Ease of Use
The user interface is very intuitive, helped by simple and clear manual instructions. It's easy to use, even for those not tech-savvy.
8 Satellite Acquisition
The device quickly acquires satellites (2-3 minutes), especially after the initial use. Proper setup before heading to the course can further expedite the process.
8 Score Tracking
Score keeping on the Garmin Approach S42 is fast and easy, allowing users to track stats and even club/shot performance efficiently during play.
8 Club & Shot Tracking
The golf watch can track club shots well, even without additional sensors, and provides post-round reviews of shots in the app.
8 Battery Life
The battery life is robust, often lasting more than 36 holes or multiple rounds of golf without needing a recharge.
7 Display
While the display is highly visible under all light conditions, critics note the small size of some text and battery indicators which could be difficult to read for some users.
7 Durability and Build
While sturdy and reliable, the standard watch band may not fit all wrist sizes comfortably and additional accessories might be required.
5 Setup and Instructions
Users find the initial setup challenging due to poorly written manual and instructions. Many need to experiment or find additional resources online to fully understand the device.
Garmin Approach S42 GPS Golf Smartwatch Review
The Garmin Approach S42 is a versatile GPS golf smartwatch designed to elevate your golfing experience both on and off the course. With information from over 42,000 CourseView maps worldwide, this watch ensures you have the data you need right on your wrist.
Features
One of the standout features is the Green View, which allows for manual pin positioning. This feature provides quick reference distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as hazards and doglegs. This helps in making informed decisions for your next shot.
The AutoShot round analyzer is another great addition, measuring and auto-recording detected shot distances. However, do note that lie and ball contact may affect shot tracking. For more comprehensive game tracking capabilities, you can pair the watch with optional Approach® CT10 club tracking sensors, which are sold separately.
Smartphone Integration
The Garmin Approach S42 can be paired with the Garmin Golf™ app on a compatible smartphone. This integration offers strokes gained analysis, participation in leaderboards and tournaments, and more insights into your game. This makes it easier to track your progress and compete with friends or other golfers.
All-Day Wear
You can wear this watch all day and benefit from smart notifications when paired with a compatible smartphone. Additionally, it comes with estimated activity-tracking features, making it a useful companion even when you’re not on the course.
Conclusion
Overall, the Garmin Approach S42 is a feature-packed GPS golf smartwatch that brings a lot to the table for both amateur and professional golfers. With its extensive course database, advanced tracking features, and seamless smartphone integration, it is a valuable tool for improving your game. The ability to wear it all day and receive smart notifications and activity tracking is an added bonus, making it a well-rounded device.
