Garmin Approach S50 review: the most complete golf GPS watch of 2026
We review the Garmin Approach S50, the golf GPS watch with an AMOLED screen, more than 43,000 courses and heart-rate tracking, and compare it with the S44.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication and are subject to change.
The Garmin Approach S50 is Garmin's most complete offering for the golfer who wants it all on the wrist: a bright AMOLED screen, precise distances to greens and hazards, heart-rate monitoring and smartwatch features for the rest of the day. It is the model that makes the most sense for the player who already knows what they want and does not want compromises.
We review the S50 based on its specifications, its documented features and user reviews on Amazon.es.
Garmin Approach S50: what it offers on the course
Garmin Approach S50
The Approach S50 adds a high-resolution AMOLED screen, more than 43,000 preloaded courses worldwide, distances to the front, center and back of the green, and PlaysLike technology that adjusts the yardage based on the hole's elevation change. It adds PinPointer to orient you when you cannot see the green, and wrist-based heart-rate monitoring for the full day. According to user reviews, the screen looks great even in direct sunlight, and the battery life (up to 15 hours in GPS mode) covers long rounds without a problem.
Pros
- Bright AMOLED screen, legible in sunlight
- PlaysLike: yardage adjusted for the hole's elevation change
- More than 43,000 preloaded courses worldwide
- Wrist heart-rate tracking through the full day
- Up to 15 hours in GPS mode, enough for any round
- PinPointer to orient you without seeing the green
Cons
- Higher price than the S44 for someone who does not need the AMOLED screen or heart-rate monitor
- The nylon strap may not appeal to those who prefer silicone
Key S50 features explained
PlaysLike Distance. This feature adjusts the real distance to the green based on whether the hole plays uphill or downhill: if there are 150 yards but the green sits 20 meters higher, the watch shows you the equivalent flat distance. It is one of the features intermediate and advanced users value most.
PinPointer. When the green is not visible from your position, an arrow on the watch shows you the direction. With no need to look at the hole map, you line up the shot in seconds.
Hazard maps. The S50 shows the position of bunkers and water hazards on each hole, with distances from your position. According to user reviews, it is especially useful on unfamiliar courses.
Smartwatch off the course. Beyond golf, the S50 records activities (running, yoga, strength), tracks sleep and pushes phone notifications. It is a watch that makes sense to wear every day, not just on the course.
If you already use the Garmin Golf App, the S50 automatically syncs each round's stats: fairways hit, number of putts and average shot distance. Over time, the app shows you which parts of your game to improve.
Garmin Approach S44: the essential alternative
Garmin Approach S44
The S44 shares the same 1.2-inch AMOLED screen size and the same 43,000-plus courses as the S50, but drops the heart-rate monitoring and some advanced smartwatch features. According to user reviews, it is the option for someone who wants Garmin screen quality and precise distances without paying for features they will not use off the course.
S50 vs S44: which to choose
The practical difference between the S50 and the S44 comes down to two points: the S50 adds wrist heart-rate monitoring and more smartwatch features for daily use; the S44 offers the same AMOLED screen and the same courses, but at a more contained price.
If you want a watch you only use on the course and you want the distances as precise as possible with no extras, the S44 is enough. If you want to wear the watch all day and make use of the heart-rate monitor both on the course and at the gym or running, the S50 makes more sense in the long run.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Garmin Approach GPS work on courses in Spain and Portugal?
Yes. The more than 43,000 preloaded courses include the courses in Spain and Portugal. No extra download is needed: the watch recognizes the course as soon as you arrive and automatically loads the hole map.
Do I need my phone nearby for the GPS to work?
No. Both the S50 and the S44 have built-in GPS in the watch. The phone is optional for syncing stats with the Garmin Golf app, but it is not needed for the distances on the course.
How long does the S50's battery take to charge?
According to Garmin's specifications, a full charge takes about 2 hours. The battery lasts up to 10 days in smartwatch mode or up to 15 hours in active GPS mode, which covers several rounds without needing to recharge between sessions.
Is it water resistant?
Both models have certified water resistance. You can use them in the rain or if they get wet by accident, but they are not designed for swimming. For course use in normal rainy conditions, there is no problem.