{"id":23441,"date":"2026-04-06T07:52:44","date_gmt":"2026-04-06T07:52:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/?p=23441"},"modified":"2026-04-06T07:52:45","modified_gmt":"2026-04-06T07:52:45","slug":"garmin-approach-s50-review-a-mid-range-banger-that-shoots-well-below-its-handicap","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/?p=23441","title":{"rendered":"Garmin Approach S50 review: a mid-range banger that shoots well below its handicap"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<p id=\"how-we-test\">\n<span class=\"font-bold text-pink-600\">Why you can trust TechRadar<br \/>\n<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"size-3 inline-block text-pink-600\" data-component-name=\"Icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-slot=\"icon\">\n<path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M2.25 12c0-5.385 4.365-9.75 9.75-9.75s9.75 4.365 9.75 9.75-4.365 9.75-9.75 9.75S2.25 17.385 2.25 12Zm13.36-1.814a.75.75 0 1 0-1.22-.872l-3.236 4.53L9.53 12.22a.75.75 0 0 0-1.06 1.06l2.25 2.25a.75.75 0 0 0 1.14-.094l3.75-5.25Z\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\"\/>\n<\/svg><br \/>\n<\/span><br \/>\n<span>We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you&#8217;re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"article-body\">\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-garmin-approach-s50-one-minute-review\"><span>Garmin Approach S50: One-minute review<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-58953edb-9815-4abb-94ce-6120513c65c7\">Sitting in the mid-range of the brand\u2019s golf watch range, the <a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/tag\/garmin\" data-auto-tag-linker=\"true\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/tag\/garmin\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/tag\/garmin\">Garmin Approach S50 is an excellent course companion. It includes all of the brand\u2019s suite of excellent golfing features, as well as just the right amount of extra health and fitness, and everyday functionality to offer a golf-first, near-complete package.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s the golfing pedigree that shines the brightest, of course, and it puts those features into action brilliantly as a course companion. It enhanced my time and game on the course with its accurate yardages, automatic shot tracking and score logging, golf course and hole graphics, and the excellent PlaysLike feature \u2014 which factors in elevation and weather \u2014 is brilliant.<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"hawk-root\"\/>\n<p id=\"elk-58953edb-9815-4abb-94ce-6120513c65c7-2\">The design and build are of excellent quality, too, with the S50 having more of a lifestyle-friendly design and form than others in the Approach range. Combine this with some very friendly day-to-day functionality and a host of fitness and health features that are excellent to use, and the package becomes even clearer.<\/p>\n<p>I still reserve a strong dislike for Garmin\u2019s own proprietary charging method, which only gets more intense when combined with a super short charging cable, but this is a wider problem shared by the S50, not unique to it. Elsewhere, it\u2019s easy to use on-screen, and its battery life is strong, offering more than two rounds of golf\u2019s worth of juice before needing to even consider charging.<\/p>\n<p>All in, however, the S50 could really give some more premium devices a scare with its overall offering, and for those who are put off by the higher-end Garmin Approach S70\u2019s hefty price tag, this could be the perfect solution and new golf course companion.<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-inbody\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-block-type=\"embed\" data-model-name=\"Garmin Approach S50 Golf Watch\" data-name=\"Inbody widget\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"phones\" data-widget-type=\"inbody\" class=\"hawk-root\">\n<ul class=\"hawk-inbody-container\">\n<li><a rel=\"sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\" aria-label=\"View Garmin Approach S50 Golf Watch on Amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/target.georiot.com\/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&amp;GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0DRZ1QFY5%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26linkCode%3Dogi%26th%3D1%26psc%3D1%26ascsubtag%3Dtrd-us-1085198098821332398-20\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" class=\"hawk-affiliate-link-inline\" data-product-key=\"2929-B0DRZ1QFY5\" data-url=\"https:\/\/target.georiot.com\/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&amp;GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0DRZ1QFY5%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26linkCode%3Dogi%26th%3D1%26psc%3D1%26ascsubtag%3Dtrd-us-1085198098821332398-20\" data-model-id=\"1037037\" data-match-id=\"950590163\" data-product-type=\"1000\" data-link-merchant=\"Amazon\" data-merchant-id=\"1471\" data-merchant-name=\"Amazon\" data-merchant-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/\" data-aps-asin=\"B0DRZ1QFY5\" role=\"link\" tabindex=\"0\"><span>Garmin Approach S50 Golf Watch (Black) at Amazon for $324.99<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-cLYt6m8vUdbitpvR6GEkYh-aDLmbk2vXRBsDyRa9KPXlgZWJtm6O37R\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-cLYt6m8vUdbitpvR6GEkYh-aDLmbk2vXRBsDyRa9KPXlgZWJtm6O37R slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 23 30\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M21.554 15.726a2.878 2.878 0 0 0-1.705-.374 2.881 2.881 0 0 0-1.388-3.068 2.877 2.877 0 0 0-1.992-.333 2.884 2.884 0 0 0-.1-.766 2.865 2.865 0 0 0-1.346-1.75c-.47-.27-.996-.4-1.527-.385l2.742-4.73a2.87 2.87 0 0 0 .323-.83h2.612V2.084h-2.661A2.861 2.861 0 0 0 15.18.385a2.903 2.903 0 0 0-3.952 1.055l-.373.644H2.983l1.003-1L2.99.09 1.28 1.793l-.999.995L2.99 5.484l.998-.994-1.003-.999h7.054L6.505 9.586c-.34.066-.905.186-1.523.366-1.405.41-2.321.895-2.8 1.483-.742.911-1.159 2.513-1.277 4.898l-.001.01c-.067 1.816.946 6.943.99 7.16a.688.688 0 0 0 1.35-.266c-.01-.051-1.023-5.177-.963-6.84.127-2.556.598-3.64.97-4.098.133-.163.602-.587 2.104-1.027l.206-.058-1.425 2.458a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.937c.33.19.75.077.94-.251L12.42 2.126a1.52 1.52 0 0 1 2.07-.552c.35.2.6.527.705.916.105.39.051.797-.15 1.145l-4.767 8.222a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.937c.33.19.75.077.94-.25l.794-1.368c.201-.348.529-.597.92-.702a1.508 1.508 0 0 1 1.854 1.066c.105.39.052.796-.15 1.144l-.377.652-.002.002-.898 1.55a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.938c.329.189.75.077.94-.251l.9-1.551c.201-.348.528-.597.92-.702a1.512 1.512 0 0 1 1.703 2.21l-1.223 2.11a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.938c.33.189.75.076.941-.252l.5-.862c.202-.348.529-.597.92-.702.392-.104.8-.051 1.15.15.723.416.972 1.34.554 2.06l-3.525 6.08c-.517.892-1.57 1.795-3.044 2.611-1.156.64-2.163.998-2.173 1.002a.685.685 0 0 0 .23 1.333.688.688 0 0 0 .229-.04c.18-.062 4.419-1.575 5.952-4.22l3.524-6.08a2.878 2.878 0 0 0-1.059-3.934Z\" fill=\"#333\"\/><\/svg><\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table tabindex=\"0\" class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 0 &#8211; Cell 0 <\/span><\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p><strong>Garmin Approach S50<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Price<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Starts at $399.99 \/ \u00a3349.99 \/ AU$729 <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Dimensions<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>1.69 x 1.69 x 0.44in  \/ 43 x 43 x 11.4mm<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Weight<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>1.02oz\/29g<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Bezel\/case<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Aluminium<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Display<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>390 x 390px; 1.2in \/ 30.4mm; AMOLED<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>GPS<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>GPS + GLONASS + Galileo<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Battery life<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Smartwatch mode: Up to 10 days; GPS only: Up to 15 hours<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Connection<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Water resistant?<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Yes, 5 ATM<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-garmin-approach-s50-price-and-availability\"><span>Garmin Approach S50: Price and availability<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-c0a673fc-ccdf-4dd8-a9b6-dc15e61e9c47\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:2000px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.30%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4aipXgQCa4DyiZpSJULWuk-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4aipXgQCa4DyiZpSJULWuk-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4aipXgQCa4DyiZpSJULWuk-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4aipXgQCa4DyiZpSJULWuk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4aipXgQCa4DyiZpSJULWuk-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4aipXgQCa4DyiZpSJULWuk-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Future \/ Rob Dwiar)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<ul id=\"elk-5a01974f-a5b9-4afa-a5ec-8dc923cc64a8\">\n<li><strong>List prices of $399.99 \/ \u00a3349.99 \/ AU$729<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Mid-range in Garmin\u2019s lineup <\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Good value for money<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"elk-7568be7a-7e87-4f88-9acd-1771f63ba0fa\">Coming in right in the middle between the high-end Approach S70 watch and the budget, entry-level Approach S12, the Garmin Approach S50 is targeting the middle ground of its golf watch lineup. And does so successfully from a price and value perspective.<\/p>\n<p>The balance of features on offer, its overall performance, and everything that getting into the Garmin Golf ecosystem gives you, all on an AMOLED watch with the brand\u2019s best on-course elements \u2014 while still coming in considerably less than the S70 is excellent. In fact, I\u2019d wager that the S50 might have the S70 worried from a value perspective, as only a couple of compromises could get you down to the S50 from the S70 and save you a bunch of cash.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-cLYt6m8vUdbitpvR6GEkYh\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-cLYt6m8vUdbitpvR6GEkYh slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\"\/>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more.<\/p>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The S50 is joined in the middle of the Garmin golf watch pack by the S44, released at the same time late last year. This offers a much leaner mid-range experience, without being a totally entry-level device. With the S50 being less than $100 \/ \u00a3100 \/ AU$180 more than the more streamlined-for-golf S44, but still $250 \/ \u00a3150 \/ AU$370 less than the S70 (42mm), it really does feel like it\u2019s hit the sweet spot.<\/p>\n<p>A small wrinkle for me on price was that I found the default strap to be really sub-par and swapped it out for another from Garmin; this naturally increases the overall cost of the S50, but the freedom to change straps and pick an alternative for one you like is welcome.<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-garmin-approach-s50-design-and-screen\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-garmin-approach-s50-design-and-screen\"><span>Garmin Approach S50: Design and screen<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-0d7becac-a839-4efd-814f-96160ea8db4f\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:2080px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.30%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Garmin Approach S50 being worn on the course\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-1200-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ne5jEB8FV5AGjkBRnvzEnk.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Future \/ Rob Dwiar)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<ul id=\"elk-0cec66ff-8d69-46be-81f6-7e5a8fe61c81\">\n<li><strong>1.2in \/ 30.4mm AMOLED screen<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Two-button control system is an acquired taste<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Lightweight and robust build but default strap is lame<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"elk-10284b86-0783-4eae-9303-1d2e699ff68a\">Broadly speaking, the S50 is the same size as its Approach siblings, and that comes from being built around a 1.2\u201d \/ 30.4mm display, with no other size options. There\u2019s no chunky bezel here either, and in fact, the S50\u2019s display edge isn\u2019t raised like the S70. As a result, the S50 is much more reminiscent of an everyday smartwatch like the more recent <a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/tag\/samsung\" data-auto-tag-linker=\"true\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/tag\/samsung\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/tag\/samsung\">Samsung Galaxy models.<\/p>\n<p>Two compact buttons positioned on the right-hand side, and the easily removable watch strap system on all Garmin watches, round out the design to create a compact and tidy build that can look like a lifestyle watch and is robust to boot.<\/p>\n<p>The screen is lovely and clear. And while it can\u2019t hold a candle to the MARQ Golfer (Gen 2)\u2019s domed screen, which I loved, the S50\u2019s display works well here. Fairways and course maps are a vibrant green on the wrist, figures are crisp and clear at a glance, and even though I don\u2019t like Garmin\u2019s font at all, health features, settings, and menus are all clear and easily readable.<\/p>\n<p>I do far prefer the three-button control on the S70 and MARQ Golfer (Gen 2) for ease of navigation and input, with the latter devices providing more easy ways to navigate systems and menus to get to where you need to be. Of course, given time it soon becomes easy to use and intuitive.<\/p>\n<p>The biggest design gripes I have are with the default strap, which I found, despite its comfort, very fiddly to use every time, and the inelegant Garmin charging solution with a short cable and the port on the back of the watch.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-garmin-approach-s50-features\"><span>Garmin Approach S50: Features <\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-6eb8746e-f896-4c42-adeb-b36f79f29045\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1953px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.27%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Garmin Approach S50 being worn on the course\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-1200-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zz9BPcca3QoBpPNvsE4iqk.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Future \/ Rob Dwiar)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<ul id=\"elk-edebb95d-b7d5-461f-80a2-5158047c6f71\">\n<li><strong>Includes all Garmin\u2019s golf features, including PlaysLike <\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Has extensive fitness and health features<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Battery life is good, and as stated<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"elk-c3dad8eb-96b0-432e-8566-a36f54da79aa\">The Garmin Approach S50 includes all the (non-subscription-based) golf features that set the <a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/best\/garmin-watch\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/best\/garmin-watch\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/best\/garmin-watch\">best Garmin watches apart, and that includes the excellent PlaysLike feature &#8211; Garmin\u2019s own tool which will factor in weather and elevation difference between your location and the target to give you accurate, \u2018real\u2019 yardages, not just those based on straight lines on a 2D map.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, positioning itself as the cheapest watch in the range that offers this feature is a very helpful way of identifying itself to golfers who are looking for the best features, but not anything outrageous price-wise. On the course, I found all the yardages to be excellently accurate and well presented on the crystal clear AMOLED color screen, and features like the AutoShot tech, swing temp meter, and green view (and more) were typically superb to use.<\/p>\n<p>Away from golf, there\u2019s a host of Garmin\u2019s usual, and excellent, health and fitness trackers, which are super for the active golfer looking to monitor their wellness off the course. This sets it apart from the rest of the cheaper watches in the Approach range, and these include features such as sleep tracking, body battery, stress, and more, all of which perform as expected.<\/p>\n<p>As far as daily watch features go, the S50 is perfectly functional and has been a solid if unspectacular companion for messaging, music control, and other daily use.<\/p>\n<p>I found the battery life to be as Garmin described, too, going days and days in normal smartwatch mode before needing to charge, and easily getting two rounds in before having to think about charging it up when using it mainly for golf.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-garmin-approach-s50-performance\"><span>Garmin Approach S50: Performance<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-d3199c5f-c315-4e6f-9440-716fa2814018\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:2384px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Garmin Approach S50 being worn on the course\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-1200-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vLqnKkEk23dFqrQ69rE9Em.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Future \/ Rob Dwiar)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<ul id=\"elk-22805d49-823d-4cbe-9365-28add2398c77\">\n<li><strong>Wonderful on-course performance<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Easy to use, accurate, and game-improving<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Perfectly functional as a daily smartwatch<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"elk-ee61d6a1-8695-46cc-8ce8-acb6e3f427b2\">As expected, the Approach S50 is a joy on the course, and offers exactly the top-level of performance I\u2019d expect from a Garmin golf watch. The features are super, the courses are presented clearly, the yardages are accurate, and the full suite of features that includes the PlaysLike distance element is all fantastic.<\/p>\n<p>Switching between the PlaysLike yardage of a hole and the on-paper yardage of a hole, and navigating courses clearly through the watch\u2019s crisp screen, is a joy. You\u2019ll get all the accuracy you\u2019d expect, which can then be elevated even more with a Garmin Golf Subscription, should you wish.<\/p>\n<p>The health and fitness features are also fantastic (typical Garmin), and perform with accuracy, ease of interaction, and help to ensure the watch offers something away from, or complementary to, the course.<\/p>\n<p>There are a few Garmin-isms that I continue to dislike personally, that the S50 features such as the font and the way it displays the original messages from <a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/tag\/whatsapp\" data-auto-tag-linker=\"true\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/tag\/whatsapp\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/tag\/whatsapp\">WhatsApp chats by default rather than the latest (Garmin has announced that there is better WhatsApp integration now available for some of its devices \u2014 but not its golf watches, at least yet, anyway). Battery life holds up as promised, and I found it to reflect Garmin\u2019s own description pretty much like for like, but the very short cable combined with Garmin\u2019s inelegant solution of where you attach the charger (on the back of the watch, which then has to lie face down, at least initially) makes for a couple more small frustrations.<\/p>\n<p>The aforementioned two-button control system takes a bit of getting used to, especially if you\u2019re coming from a different control setup, but give it enough time, and it\u2019ll become second nature. Until I switched straps, however, I would also argue that the default one hindered the watch\u2019s performance personally, as it detracted from using it and wearing it somewhat.<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-garmin-approach-s50-scorecard\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-garmin-approach-s50-scorecard\"><span>Garmin Approach S50: Scorecard<\/span><\/h3>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-cLYt6m8vUdbitpvR6GEkYh-4eNRrQDFi6yVRJOjzw3jdLJqX0L7pbYX\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-cLYt6m8vUdbitpvR6GEkYh-4eNRrQDFi6yVRJOjzw3jdLJqX0L7pbYX slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 23 30\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M21.554 15.726a2.878 2.878 0 0 0-1.705-.374 2.881 2.881 0 0 0-1.388-3.068 2.877 2.877 0 0 0-1.992-.333 2.884 2.884 0 0 0-.1-.766 2.865 2.865 0 0 0-1.346-1.75c-.47-.27-.996-.4-1.527-.385l2.742-4.73a2.87 2.87 0 0 0 .323-.83h2.612V2.084h-2.661A2.861 2.861 0 0 0 15.18.385a2.903 2.903 0 0 0-3.952 1.055l-.373.644H2.983l1.003-1L2.99.09 1.28 1.793l-.999.995L2.99 5.484l.998-.994-1.003-.999h7.054L6.505 9.586c-.34.066-.905.186-1.523.366-1.405.41-2.321.895-2.8 1.483-.742.911-1.159 2.513-1.277 4.898l-.001.01c-.067 1.816.946 6.943.99 7.16a.688.688 0 0 0 1.35-.266c-.01-.051-1.023-5.177-.963-6.84.127-2.556.598-3.64.97-4.098.133-.163.602-.587 2.104-1.027l.206-.058-1.425 2.458a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.937c.33.19.75.077.94-.251L12.42 2.126a1.52 1.52 0 0 1 2.07-.552c.35.2.6.527.705.916.105.39.051.797-.15 1.145l-4.767 8.222a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.937c.33.19.75.077.94-.25l.794-1.368c.201-.348.529-.597.92-.702a1.508 1.508 0 0 1 1.854 1.066c.105.39.052.796-.15 1.144l-.377.652-.002.002-.898 1.55a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.938c.329.189.75.077.94-.251l.9-1.551c.201-.348.528-.597.92-.702a1.512 1.512 0 0 1 1.703 2.21l-1.223 2.11a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.938c.33.189.75.076.941-.252l.5-.862c.202-.348.529-.597.92-.702.392-.104.8-.051 1.15.15.723.416.972 1.34.554 2.06l-3.525 6.08c-.517.892-1.57 1.795-3.044 2.611-1.156.64-2.163.998-2.173 1.002a.685.685 0 0 0 .23 1.333.688.688 0 0 0 .229-.04c.18-.062 4.419-1.575 5.952-4.22l3.524-6.08a2.878 2.878 0 0 0-1.059-3.934Z\" fill=\"#333\"\/><\/svg><\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table tabindex=\"0\" class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p><strong>Category<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p><strong>Comment<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p><strong>Score<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Price<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Offering robust value for money in the mid-range of Garmin golf watches, the S50 encapsulates the best of the golfing elements and combines them with a solid suite of fitness tracking features to offer a good value package.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>4.5\/5<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Design and screen<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>The default strap is not one I\u2019m a fan of or enjoy, and some Garmin design-isms remain, which hold the design score back a point. The screen, however, is excellent as usual, and the buttons are easy to use and intuitive.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>4\/5<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Features<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Combining excellent golf features from Garmin, including the PlaysLike element, with Garmin\u2019s usual brilliance in fitness and health features, and the usual robustness in being an everyday device, the feature-set is a strong proposition on the S50.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>5\/5<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Performance <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Featuring all the Garmin golf feature greatness that you\u2019d expect, the S50 is a brilliant watch on the course and a joy to use to improve one\u2019s game and rounds. It\u2019s supported by strong but unspectacular daily smartwatch performance to offer a full package.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>4\/5<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Total<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a great Garmin golf watch that features everything you could want from the brand\u2019s esteemed lineup of golf features, then this is a superb watch. There are not many detractors here, and the price point means the value proposition is robust, too. <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>4.5\/5<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-garmin-approach-s50-should-i-buy\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-garmin-approach-s50-should-i-buy\"><span>Garmin Approach S50: Should I buy?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-57b9db21-f2b0-458e-88c8-b19edf5aa556\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"buy-it-if-3\">Buy it if&#8230;<\/h2>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-collectionwidget-3167f31d8f4a2ff7a2e9a7af6e6b07c4\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-5817ddd9-1469-4452-b063-f4cc4e8def9a\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-b549b860-521f-4276-b8cd-459aa447ee7c\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-968a879d-8457-4978-ab04-9052ecbeb229\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"don-t-buy-it-if-3\">Don\u2019t buy it if\u2026<\/h2>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-collectionwidget-60d3a4f6c51308cc8b8af2e62718f80d\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-6947f021-69ba-40b0-b0fa-fe193788b912\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-1e7f00a7-01fa-46d8-841d-e0add9593650\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-also-consider\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-also-consider\"><span>Also consider<\/span><\/h3>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-cLYt6m8vUdbitpvR6GEkYh-4f2BZZbGNiGfy8rqbOfGufN0SZNyoqDo\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-cLYt6m8vUdbitpvR6GEkYh-4f2BZZbGNiGfy8rqbOfGufN0SZNyoqDo slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 23 30\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M21.554 15.726a2.878 2.878 0 0 0-1.705-.374 2.881 2.881 0 0 0-1.388-3.068 2.877 2.877 0 0 0-1.992-.333 2.884 2.884 0 0 0-.1-.766 2.865 2.865 0 0 0-1.346-1.75c-.47-.27-.996-.4-1.527-.385l2.742-4.73a2.87 2.87 0 0 0 .323-.83h2.612V2.084h-2.661A2.861 2.861 0 0 0 15.18.385a2.903 2.903 0 0 0-3.952 1.055l-.373.644H2.983l1.003-1L2.99.09 1.28 1.793l-.999.995L2.99 5.484l.998-.994-1.003-.999h7.054L6.505 9.586c-.34.066-.905.186-1.523.366-1.405.41-2.321.895-2.8 1.483-.742.911-1.159 2.513-1.277 4.898l-.001.01c-.067 1.816.946 6.943.99 7.16a.688.688 0 0 0 1.35-.266c-.01-.051-1.023-5.177-.963-6.84.127-2.556.598-3.64.97-4.098.133-.163.602-.587 2.104-1.027l.206-.058-1.425 2.458a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.937c.33.19.75.077.94-.251L12.42 2.126a1.52 1.52 0 0 1 2.07-.552c.35.2.6.527.705.916.105.39.051.797-.15 1.145l-4.767 8.222a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.937c.33.19.75.077.94-.25l.794-1.368c.201-.348.529-.597.92-.702a1.508 1.508 0 0 1 1.854 1.066c.105.39.052.796-.15 1.144l-.377.652-.002.002-.898 1.55a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.938c.329.189.75.077.94-.251l.9-1.551c.201-.348.528-.597.92-.702a1.512 1.512 0 0 1 1.703 2.21l-1.223 2.11a.685.685 0 0 0 .252.938c.33.189.75.076.941-.252l.5-.862c.202-.348.529-.597.92-.702.392-.104.8-.051 1.15.15.723.416.972 1.34.554 2.06l-3.525 6.08c-.517.892-1.57 1.795-3.044 2.611-1.156.64-2.163.998-2.173 1.002a.685.685 0 0 0 .23 1.333.688.688 0 0 0 .229-.04c.18-.062 4.419-1.575 5.952-4.22l3.524-6.08a2.878 2.878 0 0 0-1.059-3.934Z\" fill=\"#333\"\/><\/svg><\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table tabindex=\"0\" class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 0 &#8211; Cell 0 <\/span><\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p><strong>Garmin Approach S50<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p><strong>Garmin Approach S70<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p><strong>Shot Scope G6<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Price<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Starts at $399.99 \/ \u00a3349.99 \/ AU$729 <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>$649.99\/$699.99 \/ \u00a3549.99\/\u00a3599.99 \/ AU$1,099\/$AU$1,199<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>$179.99 \/ \u00a3179.99 (around AU$370)<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Dimensions<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>1.69 x 1.69 x 0.44in  \/ 43 x 43 x 11.4mm<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>1.8 x 1.8 x 0.5in\/47 x 47 x 13.4mm \/ 1.7 x 1.7 x 0.5in\/42 x 42 x 12.6mm<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>1.7 x 1.7 x 0.39in\/44 x 44 x 10mm<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Weight<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>1.02oz\/29g<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>2oz\/56g \/ 1.6oz\/44g<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>1.48oz \/ 42g<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Case\/bezel<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Aluminium<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Ceramic<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Brushed steel<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Display<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>390 x 390px; 1.2in \/ 30.4mm; AMOLED<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>454 x 454px \/ 390 x 390px; 1.2in\/32mm \/ 1.4in\/35.4mm; AMOLED<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>176 x 176px; Daylight readable MIP<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>GPS<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>GPS + GLONASS + Galileo<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>GPS+GLONASS+Galileo<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>GPS L1, Galileo E1, Glonass L1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Battery life<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Smartwatch mode: Up to 10 days; GPS only: Up to 15 hours<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Smartwatch mode: Up to 16 days\/up to 10 days; GPS mode: up to 20 hours\/up to 15 hours <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>GPS Mode: 2+ rounds of golf \/ Watch Mode: 4 days <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Connection<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Bluetooth 5<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Water resistant?<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Yes, 10 ATM<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Yes, 5 ATM<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\" style=\"text-align:left\">\n<p>Not stated<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-collectionwidget-920885224bb4029d5c0995fc2bcdf602\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-3c424c5c-0845-408e-ae33-1b2031d1569c\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-e4c266d4-21a1-4628-b36e-880e9c9862d8\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-how-i-tested\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-how-i-tested\"><span>How I tested<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-9240b9de-449a-47d4-b03d-f44f57a7acd5\">I tested the Garmin Approach S50 on the course and off it for several months, playing multiple rounds at my home course in Somerset and a few elsewhere in the UK. I also regularly used it as my daily smartwatch, testing a whole host of its features from fitness and health to messaging.<\/p>\n<p>I compared the Garmin Approach S50 to my TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition, and the Garmin MARG 2 Golfer as well as the more affordable ShotScope G6 GPS watch, while also l,ooking back to my time with the Approach S70 for comparison.<\/p>\n<p><em>First reviewed November 2025-March 2026<\/em><\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" id=\"elk-bot-widget\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-block-type=\"embed\" data-model-name=\"Garmin Approach S50 Golf Watch\" data-name=\"BOT widget\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-widget-type=\"review\" class=\"hawk-root\">\n<div class=\"hawk-main-editorial-container\">\n<p>Garmin Approach S50 Golf Watch: Price Comparison<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":23442,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6159],"tags":[6479,7540,7536,7542,7539,7538,7537,7541],"class_list":["post-23441","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","tag-approach","tag-banger","tag-garmin","tag-handicap","tag-midrange","tag-review","tag-s50","tag-shoots"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23441","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=23441"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23441\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":23443,"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23441\/revisions\/23443"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/23442"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=23441"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=23441"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/smartbizearnings.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=23441"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}