The Garmin Approach S12 is an entry-level GPS golf watch that promises to enhance your golfing experience. With over 42,000 preloaded courses and a sleek design, it offers golfers essential features at a reasonable price.
In this review, we’ll dive into the features, performance, and overall value of the Garmin Approach S12. We’ll also compare it with other models in the Garmin lineup to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your game.
Having used the Garmin Approach S12 for several rounds, I found it incredibly user-friendly and accurate. The watch’s ability to quickly connect to GPS and provide precise yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green saved me valuable time on the course.
One feature I particularly enjoyed was the measure shot function. It allowed me to track the distance of my shots effortlessly, helping me make better club selections. The long battery life also meant I could play multiple rounds without needing to recharge.
Design and Build Quality
The Garmin Approach S12 features a new round watch design with a high-resolution sunlight-readable display. This design ensures that the watch is easy to read even in bright sunlight, making it suitable for outdoor use. The watch is lightweight and has a slim form factor, which makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods. Although the casing and straps are made of plastic, they contribute to the watch’s overall lightweight feel without sacrificing durability.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the Garmin Approach S12 is its impressive battery life. The watch can last up to 30 hours in GPS mode, which is more than sufficient for multiple rounds of golf. This long battery life is attributed to the watch’s basic black-and-white pixel display, which consumes less power compared to modern color screens. Users have reported that the watch can go several rounds without needing a recharge, making it a reliable companion on the golf course.
Preloaded Courses
The Garmin Approach S12 comes with over 42,000 preloaded courses from around the world. This extensive database ensures that golfers can use the watch at almost any course they visit. The watch quickly connects to GPS satellites, allowing users to find their course and start playing without delay. The preloaded courses provide essential information such as yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as distances to hazards and doglegs.
Ease of Use
The Garmin Approach S12 is designed to be user-friendly, with a straightforward interface that allows golfers to focus on their game. The watch uses four buttons for navigation, with functions clearly labeled on the bezel. Setting up the watch is simple, and users can quickly access key features such as playing golf, keeping score, and measuring shot distances. The large numbers mode and easy-to-read display further enhance the watch’s usability on the course.
Scorekeeping and Stat Tracking
Golfers can keep score directly on the Garmin Approach S12, making it easy to track their performance throughout the round. The watch also allows users to upload their scores to the Garmin Golf app when paired with a compatible smartphone. This feature enables golfers to participate in weekly leaderboards and analyze their stats over time. While the watch provides basic stat tracking, users can also pair it with Approach CT10 club tracking sensors for more detailed data.
Accuracy
The Garmin Approach S12 is praised for its accuracy in providing yardages and other essential information. Users have found that the watch’s measurements are consistent with other GPS devices and laser rangefinders. The watch’s ability to quickly connect to GPS satellites ensures that golfers receive accurate data without long wait times. This reliability makes the Garmin Approach S12 a trusted tool for improving course management and shot selection.
Durability
Despite its lightweight and plastic construction, the Garmin Approach S12 is built to withstand the rigors of regular use on the golf course. Users have reported that the watch holds up well over time, with no significant wear and tear. The silicone band is comfortable and durable, while the screen remains scratch-free even after extended use. This durability ensures that the watch remains a valuable asset for golfers season after season.
Additional Features
The Garmin Approach S12 includes several additional features that enhance its functionality on the golf course. These features include measuring shot distances, tracking sunrise and sunset times, and moving the flag location on the green. While the watch does not have advanced fitness tracking or smartphone notifications, its focus on golf-specific features makes it a practical choice for dedicated golfers. The ability to measure shot distances is particularly useful for assessing performance with different clubs.
Value for Money
At a price of $149.99, the Garmin Approach S12 offers excellent value for money. It provides essential golf GPS features without the extra cost of more advanced models. Golfers who prioritize functionality and battery life over additional features will find the S12 to be a cost-effective option. The watch’s accurate yardages, extensive course database, and user-friendly interface make it a reliable choice for golfers of all skill levels.
User Feedback
User reviews for the Garmin Approach S12 are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.5 out of 5-star rating based on 792 reviews. Users appreciate the watch’s accuracy, ease of use, and long battery life. Some users have noted that the menu can be complex initially, but overall, the watch receives high marks for its performance on the golf course. The positive feedback highlights the watch’s effectiveness in providing essential information and enhancing the golfing experience.
Pros:
- High-resolution sunlight-readable display
- Excellent battery life up to 30 hours in GPS mode
- Preloaded with over 42,000 golf courses worldwide
Cons:
- No touchscreen functionality
- Basic black and white pixel display
- No fitness tracking features
Conclusion
Overall, the Garmin Approach S12 is an excellent choice for golfers looking for a reliable and affordable GPS watch. Its easy-to-read display, accurate yardages, and impressive battery life make it a valuable tool on the course.
While it may lack some advanced features found in higher-end models, the S12 provides all the essentials for a great golfing experience. If you’re in the market for a straightforward and efficient GPS golf watch, the Garmin Approach S12 is worth considering.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Does the Garmin Approach S12 track fitness activities?
Answer: No, the Garmin Approach S12 is focused on golf and does not track fitness activities.
Question: How long does the battery last on a full charge?
Answer: The battery can last up to 30 hours in GPS mode and 30 days in non-GPS mode.
Question: Can I move the flag on the green with this watch?
Answer: Yes, you can manually move the flag on the green to get more accurate distances.
