Quick Summary
The Garmin Approach S42 is a GPS golf smartwatch made for players who want course information, shot tracking and everyday smartwatch features in one wearable. It has a 1.2 inch easy to read colour touchscreen, more than 42,000 CourseView maps preloaded from around the world, and a lightweight design with a gunmetal ceramic bezel and black silicone band.
Who It Is Best For
This watch suits golfers who want quick access to distances, green information and score tracking without carrying extra gear. It is also a sensible choice for anyone who wants a golf focused smartwatch they can wear beyond the course for notifications and activity tracking.
What To Know Before You Buy
It offers golf focused features alongside smartwatch functions, but some features depend on a compatible smartphone. The AutoShot round analyser can measure detected shot distances, although lie and ball contact may affect shot tracking.
Pros: Clear colour touchscreen, course maps preloaded, and golf plus smartwatch features in one device.
Cons: Some functions need a compatible smartphone, and shot tracking results may vary depending on play conditions.
Common Buyer Questions
Does the Garmin Approach S42 show golf distances?
Yes, it can reference distances to the front, middle and back of the green, as well as hazards and doglegs.
Are golf courses already loaded on the watch?
Yes, it comes with more than 42,000 CourseView maps preloaded from around the world.
Can it track shots automatically?
It includes AutoShot round analysis and can pair with optional Approach CT10 club tracking sensors, which are sold separately.
Does it work as a normal smartwatch too?
Yes, it offers smart notifications when paired with a compatible smartphone and estimated activity tracking features such as steps and sleep.
Can I use it for scoring and stats?
Yes, when paired with the Garmin Golf app on a compatible smartphone, it supports live scoring, automatic scorecard uploads and stat review.
Key Details
| Detail | What it means in use |
|---|---|
| Garmin Approach S42 | A golf smartwatch designed for course use and everyday wear |
| 1.2 inch colour touchscreen | Easy to read display for viewing golf and smartwatch information |
| 42,000 plus CourseView maps | Large preloaded course coverage for golfers who play in different places |
| Gunmetal ceramic bezel and black silicone band | Defined look and wearable finish |
| AutoShot round analyser | Measures detected shot distances for added game tracking |
| Smart notifications and activity tracking | Useful beyond golf when paired with a compatible smartphone |
| Garmin Golf app support | Lets you review stats, score live and upload scorecards on a compatible smartphone |
Final Buying View
The Garmin Approach S42 is a practical option for golfers who want a lightweight GPS smartwatch with clear course data, preloaded maps and useful everyday smartwatch features. If you want one device for golf round support and daily wear, it is a strong all round choice. Check smartphone compatibility before ordering if you plan to use the connected features.
