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Best Golf Watches For Ladies 2026

After thorough testing we have run through the best golf watches for women currently on the market

Best Golf Watches For Ladies
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)

Wearable tech has officially caught up to handhelds. Today’s GPS watches pack elite-level detail into a sleek, wrist-based format that was unimaginable just a few years ago. The main advantage of gps watches remains their seamless integration into the pace of play. By providing instantaneous yardages with a simple glance at the wrist, these devices eliminate the friction of retrieving a rangefinder or navigating a secondary GPS device, allowing for a more focused and efficient pre-shot routine and meaning pace of play on the golf course keeps rolling.

Generally, ladies need to forsake looks if they want an exceptional in-built caddie on their wrist, as the majority of golf GPS watches are fairly chunky and masculine looking. However, brands have improved overall styling and comfort to make the options appealing to both male and female players. For ladies that also lead an active lifestyle away from the golf course, many leading brands have introduced watches that include fitness tracking features, as well as different colors and straps. For example our top pick, the Garmin Approach S62 has immense functionality on and off the golf course.

The Quick List

Best Golf Watches For Ladies

Top pick

Garmin Approach S70 Golf Watch worn on the golf course showing off its display

(Image credit: Future)
The top golf gps watch money can buy

Specifications

Courses Preloaded: 43,000
Battery Life: 20 hours
Screen Size: 1.4″ (35.41 mm) diameter
Weight: 56g
Straps: One

Reasons to buy

+
Packed full of technology and features
+
Can track shots and make suggestions
+
Improved looks and interface
+
Extended battery life

Reasons to avoid

-
Abundance of tech and features could overwhelm some

There is a strong argument to say that the Garmin Approach S70 is the best golf watch out there on the market currently. Despite the wealth of technology, it is very user-friendly, and it is a perfect option for the gadget-loving golfer. That being said, even the not so tech-savvy golfer should be able to get the hang of this watch fairly quickly.

If you want to move past simple yardages and start mastering your club selection, the Garmin S70 is in a league of its own. It’s a dual-threat device that gives you the numbers you need in a split second, while its back-end software crunches your stats to highlight exactly where you’re gaining or losing strokes. With live weather updates and an AI-driven caddie that learns your game over five rounds, it provides a level of immersion that was previously impossible.

The large, colorful screen is a total standout, and because it’s a Garmin, you’ve got instant access to over 43,000 courses worldwide. It switches from everyday mode to 'golf mode' in a heartbeat, making it incredibly intuitive.

A lot of golf smartwatches can have poor battery life, but this is not the case with the S70 which can hold its charge for up to 16 days when using it as a standard smartwatch. In golf mode using the GPS you will get 20 hours, which is still very impressive.

Best value

garmin approach s12 golf watch on wrist

The most basic model in Garmin's range, the S12 is still an excellent golf watch

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Best model to find on offer

Specifications

Courses preloaded: 42,000
Battery life : 30 hours
Screen size: 2.3cm
Weight: 34g
Straps: Six

Reasons to buy

+
Accurate and easy to use
+
Lightweight strap allows you to swing freely without it getting in the way
+
Looks great

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited off-course functionality
-
Less easy to navigate through options versus touch screen watches

For an entry level model and one of the best value golf watches on the market, the Garmin Approach S12 is right up there as it has fantastic usability from the get go when loading up one of the 40,000 courses.

The display screen is clear and provides the usual yardages to front, middle and back of the green but, in addition, it provides information on distances to bunkers, water hazards, lay-up yardages, and the option to move the flag around for even greater accuracy. It is a little more clunky to use than other models on this list, and other Garmin models like the S42 and S62, but the value price more than makes up for this.

If you’re tired of squinting at your wrist, this is the watch for you. The Big Numbers mode and glare-proof screen are absolute game-changers for keeping your round stress-free. It’s a classic 'no-frills' model that does the basics brilliantly - it measures the distances of each of your shots and also lets you track your score throughout your round. It doesn't have many off-course features other than telling you the time, but its slick enough in terms of fashion to be worn to the bar on a Friday and not look out of place.

Best shot-tracking

Shot Scope V5 Golf GPS Watch

Golf Monthly testing the Shot Scope V5 GPS Watch

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Provides GPS distances and seamless shot tracking for performance analysis

Specifications

Courses preloaded: 36,000+
Battery life: Two plus rounds
Screen size: 1.2"
Weight: 50g
Straps: One

Reasons to buy

+
All the features of the X5 for $50 cheaper
+
I preferred the button operation to the touchscreen
+
The strokes gained data is exceptionally useful

Reasons to avoid

-
Only comes with one strap color option

Shot Scope's V5 looks to build on the impressive Shot Scope V3 and I was so enamored with the number of features on offer (as well as the looks) that I gave this product a spot in our Editor's Choice.

With a sleeker design compared to the V3, I am pleased to note that the excellent shot-tracking features have remained. The information I got was second-to-none thanks to the new lightweight tags that screwed into the top of my clubs. That being said to get the most out of this feature you need to wear the watch on your lead arm and it needs to be within 10cm of the tags in order to pick up shots and we found that it did occasionally miss some. It did not miss enough for it to be a big problem though and overall it's an impressive bit of kit. The sensors allow you to track shots and also give you free access to over 100 performance statistics which includes Strokes Gained.

Overall the performance in my testing was very impressive. A clear improvement for was the V5's button navigation which was a lot less fiddly than the Shot Scope X5's touchscreen navigation. The user experience wasn’t perfect but overall I think it can help the user improve decision-making and club selection. The price also makes it an appealing model to consider, although I do wish there was more than one strap option in terms of color. It is a massive difference in terms of price point, but the Tag Heuer model I tested below has nine to choose from!

Best mid-price

An ideal model for using on and off the golf course, the S42 is very versatile

An ideal model for using on and off the golf course, the S42 is very versatile

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Best on-off course design

Specifications

Courses preloaded : 42,000
Battery life: 15 hours
Screen size: 3cm
Weight: 43g
Straps: Three

Reasons to buy

+
Premium look
+
Feature-packed including fitness tracking
+
Extremely clear and easy to use

Reasons to avoid

-
Will take a couple of rounds to get used to all available features

Garmin is a brand that leads the way in wearable technology and, whilst there are different models to choose from, I think the smaller size and well-rounded features of the Approach S42 make it a popular choice for ladies.

A premium look without a premium price tag, it’s well made and comes preloaded with more than 42,000 courses worldwide, as well as a 15 hour battery life. Regarding the touchscreen, you receive front, middle and back yardages, which are displayed on the exceptionally clear color screen. I found this screen simple and very easy to use whilst the menu scrolling was straightforward and very intuitive in my opinion.

What's more, if you know the pin locations, it’s possible to move the flag on the touchscreen for an exact yardage and, when used in conjunction with the Garmin Golf app, AutoShot technology allows you to track and record shot distances.

Importantly what makes it so versatile is not just the looks but I like the fact you can also track your number of steps, distance, calories and how you slept making it great for off-course activities. This does create an issue where it does take a little bit of time to get used to using a watch of this quality, and with this many features, but I think the overall performance makes it worth the time spent.

Best simplicity

The GolfBuddy Aim W12 Golf GPS Watch showing off its vibrant and large touch screen

The GolfBuddy Aim W12 Golf GPS Watch showing off its vibrant and large touch screen

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
For golfers seeking functionality on a tight budget

Specifications

Courses preloaded: 40,000
Battery life: 10 hours
Screen size: 3.3cm
Weight: 50g
Straps: Two

Reasons to buy

+
Slope function enhances accuracy
+
Plenty of strategy-enhancing features
+
Easy to navigate

Reasons to avoid

-
Hole maps could be improved
-
Shorter battery life than Aim W11

This user-friendly, feature-packed golf watch will certainly catch the eye of many players of differing experience levels. The GolfBuddy Aim W12 is an example of the cutting edge features and designs going into some of the best GPS golf watches on the market right now. GolfBuddy have made several impressive updates here over the Aim W11 released in 2021.

I think the watch looks a lot slicker and has certainly been streamlined thanks to the flatter button in the corner. The face looks to have been blended in better with the the cool looking bezel and it comes with a leather strap as standard. If leather isn't your cup of tea, it also comes with a silicon strap in the box too, which may be more appropriate if you're playing in warmer conditions.

Looking to the touchscreen now, and the display is very bright and reassuringly responsive. The watch will only start displaying distances when you arrive at the first tee which was a little frustrating, and I think the overall look of the hole maps could be improved with a touch more detail or made to look more visually arresting. The graphics on the display were still good though and the maps were easy to navigate, and I should mention the W12 comes with accurate slope functionality which is a welcome feature.

Best premium

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition Watch

Testing the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition Watch

(Image credit: Tag Heuer)
The next best thing to having a caddie by your side

Specifications

Courses preloaded: 40,000
Battery life: 24 hours
Screen size: 3.5cm
Weight: N/A
Straps: Nine

Reasons to buy

+
Crystal clear display
+
Shot tracking enhances strategy
+
Exceptional app experience

Reasons to avoid

-
Very expensive versus the competition

Tag Heuer introduced itself to the golf GPS watch scene around the turn of the decade and, since then, they have continued to improve their product with multiple-time DP World Tour winner, Tommy Fleetwood, a brand ambassador. Introducing the Connected Calbre E4 golf edition watch, Tag Heuer have introduced a number of new additions, including an automated shot-tracker, redesigned golf software and a new buckle with magnetic ball marker built into the strap.

The Tag Heuer design and feel is sporty and premium. As expected, the Tag Heuer is crammed with features, such as a 2D view of the hole on the screen. When out on the course, a red dot indicates where you are, moving with distance, suggesting a club for that yardage and, thanks to a tap of the screen, you get front and back numbers, as well as the par of the hole.

One of the standout features is the driving range feature. Essentially, it tracks drives automatically and, using the watch’s accelerometer and gyroscope, it marks the tee shot and then subsequent shots seamlessly to collect the data it needs. Over time, a heat map is created for every hole in the app which then shows where shots landed on previous rounds color-coded by your score. This allows you to see what clubs work best on each tee shot, ideal for optimizing strategy.

Of course I should mention price. The Tag Heuer is at the ultra-premium end of the spectrum and you get what you pay for in terms of overall performance and a named brand in the watch space, but it is worth acknowledging there are cheaper models out there with similar functionality, such as the Garmin S62.

Specifications table

Swipe to scroll horizontally

Model

Courses preloaded

Battery life

Screen size

Weight

Colors

Garmin Approach S70

43,000

20 hours

3.3cm

56g

3

Garmin Approach S12

42,000

30 hours

2.3cm

34g

6

Shot Scope V5 Golf GPS Watch

36,000+

Two plus rounds

3cm

50g

1

Garmin Approach S42

42,000

15 hours

3cm

43g

3

GolfBuddy Aim W12 Golf GPS Watch

40,000

10 hours

3.3cm

50g

2

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition Watch

40,000

24 hours

3.5cm

N/A

9

How we test

At Golf Monthly we have a comprehensive testing procedure when trying to find the best golf watches. This involves using different models out on the course, over a number of rounds and importantly in different conditions too because this gives us an idea on how particular models deal with sunlight, rain and wind.

Our team is out on the course every week, which means we’re constantly putting the latest golf watches through thorough testing. Since new models drop year-round, it gives us the space and time to test each model individually over a set period of time. We love a good head-to-head battle, testing for things like will the watch holds its own in an unexpected heavy shower and how accurate is the GPS compared to a regular laser? We also live with these gadgets off the course. For versatile picks like the Garmin S70, we’re checking out the fitness tech and sleep tracking to see if it’s worth wearing 24/7. And for the data nerds, we’re out there with the Shot Scope V5 and its sensors, double-checking every yard to make sure your stats are spot on.

From this detailed analysis we’re able to offer you impartial advice designed to help you make informed buying decisions. The final thing we wanted to mention in this section is no manufacturer can buy a good review. Our testing team reviews golf equipment and makes its own opinion on how good or bad the product is. Check out how Golf Monthly tests products here.

How to choose

Features

Once you’ve settled on a GPS watch, the next step is to prioritize the features that actually align with your game. The market is split between essentialist models and do-it-all models - knowing where you sit on that spectrum will save you both money and frustration. If you simply need reliable distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, a budget-friendly unit is a perfect, cost-effective choice. However, there are some truly elite options available that offer a lot more than just yardages.

Alternatively, there are watches which can go into much greater detail when providing yardages, course detail, hazard information and so on. Obviously there are models with larger screens too which can be a particularly useful feature. Some also can help you record your score, track your shots, and many also have fitness features for off the golf course as well.

Versatility

You don't have to swap watches when you leave the clubhouse anymore. Many of this year’s standout gadgets are true 24/7 wearables, combining world-class data with the smart features you’d expect from a high-end health smartwatch. If you’re after a device that tracks your steps and your strokes with equal measure, several of our top-rated picks above are built to never leave your wrist.

Your routine

The best golf watch for you depends entirely on how you play and, in particular, what your pre-shot routine looks like. Do you want to just look down, see '155 yards,' and pull your 8-iron? Or do you want to analyze the slope, wind, and green heat maps first? If you're a speedy player, it’s significantly faster to check your wrist than it is to zap a flag with a laser or drag pointers on a handheld screen. If you want to stay in the zone without tech getting in the way, a streamlined watch is the way to go.

Golf course

It’s worth thinking about the characteristics of the courses you play most. If you're constantly dealing with blind tee shots like on a links course or doglegs on tree-lined layouts, a GPS watch acts like a digital scout, giving you numbers to spots a laser simply can't reach. If your course is straightforward, a laser’s simplicity wins out. But if you’re a social golfer who loves a road trip, having a GPS watch is like having local knowledge in your pocket.

Battery power

GPS devices are powered by rechargeable internal batteries that require regular USB-C charging, often every two to three rounds. When choosing, consider whether you prefer the long-term longevity of a replaceable battery or have the charging discipline required to keep a digital device topped up for your next tee time.

Budget

Finally we should mention budget. If you want a simple model then there are budget-friendly options. However if you want to spend more you can with Garmin and TAG Heuer in particular offering ultra-premium models.

For more golf tech buying advice, check out our guides on the best budget golf rangefinders, best golf simulator, or the best cheap golf launch monitors.

FAQs

How do I choose a golf watch?

As we’ve outlined in our 'How to Choose' section, finding your perfect golf watch boils down to six key factors: features, versatility, battery life, display quality, and your total budget. However, don't overlook the human element -your personal pace of play and the topography of the courses you frequent.

Can I use my smartwatch for golf?

It’s true that smartwatches are smarter than ever nowadays and you can definitely get by using a golf app on your daily wearer. However, if you want the best possible experience, nothing beats a watch designed specifically for the fairways.

Can you use a GPS watch in golf?

The USGA and R&A rules regarding tech have evolved significantly, but the core principle remains the same: distance measuring devices and gadgets should provide distance information without replacing the golfer's skill and judgment. While GPS watches are perfectly legal for most recreational and competitive play, they often come loaded with features, like slope adjustments, wind metrics, and virtual caddies, that are prohibited during sanctioned tournaments. Be sure to check this before you play in a big club competition or tournament.

Alison Root

Alison Root has over 25 years experience working in media and events, predominantly dedicated to golf, in particular the women’s game. Until 2020, for over a decade Alison edited Women & Golf magazine and website, and is now the full-time Women's Editor for Golf Monthly. Alison is a respected and leading voice in the women's game, overseeing content that communicates to active golfers from grassroots through to the professional scene, and developing collaborative relationships to widen Golf Monthly's female audience across all platforms to elevate women's golf to a new level. She is a 16-handicap golfer (should be better) and despite having had the fantastic opportunity to play some of the best golf courses around the world, Kingsbarns in Scotland is her favourite.

With contributions from