Garmin Approach S72 vs Golf GPS Handhelds: Which Wins?

The Garmin Approach S72 is better for golfers who want a full-featured golf watch with smartwatch capabilities, while a dedicated golf GPS handheld is better for those who prioritize screen size, battery life, and rugged durability over wearable convenience. This article compares the two form factors across key decision points so you can choose the one that fits your game and how you play.

Background: The Two Form Factors

Garmin’s golf lineup splits into two main device types: the Approach series of wrist-worn GPS watches, and the handheld GPS units like the Approach G80 or older models such as the Approach S20 (which is actually a watch) and the Approach X10 (a small handheld). The S72, introduced in 2024, is Garmin’s premium golf watch, replacing the popular S62. It features a 1.3-inch AMOLED display, a titanium bezel, and a battery life of up to 16 days in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode. Handhelds, on the other hand, are larger devices you carry or clip to your bag, with screens ranging from 2.4 to 3.5 inches. They typically offer longer battery life (often 20+ hours) and more rugged build quality, but they lack the convenience of being on your wrist.

How Each Device Works

Both types use GPS to determine your location on a preloaded course map. Garmin preloads over 43,000 courses worldwide, so you don’t need a subscription. When you start a round, the device uses satellite signals to pinpoint your position and then calculates distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as to hazards and layup points. The S72 adds a virtual caddie feature that suggests club recommendations based on your swing data if you also use Garmin’s Approach CT10 sensors or the Garmin Golf app. Handhelds like the G80 also include a launch monitor (radar-based) that measures club speed, ball speed, and smash factor, making them a practice tool as much as a distance device. The S72 does not have a built-in launch monitor.

Screen Size and Readability

The most obvious difference is the display. The S72 has a 1.3-inch round AMOLED screen with a resolution of 416 x 416 pixels. It’s bright and colorful, but it’s small—you need to glance at your wrist and read numbers quickly. Handhelds offer much larger screens. The Approach G80 has a 3.5-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 480 x 640, making it easier to see the entire hole layout, move the pin placement, and read distances from a distance. If you have poor eyesight or prefer to see the full green shape, a handheld is easier. However, the S72’s smaller screen is always on your wrist, so you don’t have to reach for a device in your bag or pocket. Many golfers find that a quick wrist glance is faster and less distracting than pulling out a handheld.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a critical factor for golfers who walk 36 holes or play multiple days without charging. The S72 offers up to 20 hours in GPS mode, which is enough for about three full rounds (assuming 4-hour rounds). In smartwatch mode, it lasts up to 16 days. Handhelds generally have larger batteries. The G80 provides up to 20 hours in GPS mode as well, but the older Approach X10 (if you can find one) offers up to 12 hours. The key difference is that the S72 is also a smartwatch, so if you use it for notifications, sleep tracking, and other smart features, the battery drains faster. Handhelds are single-purpose, so they conserve power. If you play in long tournaments or multi-day golf trips without access to a charger, a handheld might be more reliable. However, the S72 charges quickly via USB-C, and you can top it up in a car or with a power bank.

Course Mapping and Features

Both types use the same Garmin Golf app and preloaded course data. You get distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as to hazards and doglegs. You can manually move the pin on the green to get more accurate distances (the S72 uses a touchscreen, handhelds also have touchscreens). The S72 adds a few extra features: a virtual caddie that uses your swing data (if you use the Approach CT10 sensors) to suggest clubs, and a wind speed/direction indicator (if you have a compatible Garmin wind sensor). Handhelds like the G80 have a built-in launch monitor that measures your swing metrics, which is a unique feature not available on any watch. If you want to practice your swing and get instant feedback on the range, the G80 is a better choice. But if you want a device that also tracks your daily steps, heart rate, and notifications, the S72 is more versatile.

Comfort and Convenience

Wearing a watch during a round is generally more convenient than carrying a handheld. The S72 weighs 55 grams, so it’s barely noticeable on your wrist. You can set it to auto-advance to the next hole, so you never have to press a button. It also tracks your shots (with optional sensors) and automatically records your score. Handhelds require you to either hold them, keep them in a pocket, or attach them to your bag with a clip. You have to take them out to see the screen, which can be a hassle if you’re riding in a cart or walking. Some golfers prefer the larger screen of a handheld for planning shots, but the convenience of a watch is hard to beat. If you’re the type of golfer who likes to walk quickly and not fiddle with devices, the S72 is the better choice. If you’re a golfer who likes to study the hole layout before each shot, a handheld’s larger screen might be worth the extra effort.

Cost and Value

Price is a significant factor. The Garmin Approach S72 is a premium device, typically priced higher than most handhelds. As of 2025, the S72 retails for around $700, while the Approach G80 is around $500, and older handhelds like the Approach X10 are under $200 (though they lack the advanced features). You’re paying for the AMOLED display, the smartwatch functionality, and the premium materials. If you only want distances and don’t care about smart features, a handheld like the G80 offers more golf-specific value for the money, especially if you use the launch monitor. But if you want a device that doubles as a daily fitness tracker and smartwatch, the S72’s higher price is justified. Consider how often you’ll use the non-golf features. If you’ll wear the S72 every day, it’s a better investment. If you only wear it for golf, a handheld might be more cost-effective.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

One common misconception is that the S72 is better just because it’s newer. In reality, the best choice depends on your personal preferences. Another issue: some golfers worry about the S72’s battery life, but 20 hours in GPS mode is actually sufficient for most. A common problem with handhelds is that they can be bulky and easy to forget in a cart. With the S72, you might forget you’re wearing it, but you won’t lose it. Another problem with the S72 is that the touchscreen can be less responsive when wet, but the same is true for handhelds. Also, the S72’s virtual caddie requires additional sensors (sold separately) to provide club recommendations, which adds to the cost. Handhelds like the G80 have a built-in launch monitor, but it only works on the range, not on the course. Finally, both devices require a clear view of the sky for GPS; playing in dense forests or near tall buildings can cause signal issues, but that’s rare on golf courses.

Alternatives and Final Thoughts

If you’re undecided, consider alternatives: the Garmin Approach S70 (a slightly older watch with a similar feature set but a smaller screen) or the Approach Z82 (a laser rangefinder with GPS, which gives you precise distances but requires you to aim it). If you want a budget option, the Approach S12 is a simple watch with basic distances. For handhelds, the Garmin Approach G80 is the top choice, but you could also look at the Approach X10 if you want a simpler, cheaper device. Ultimately, the decision comes down to form factor. Try both if you can—visit a store and wear the S72, and hold a G80. Think about what you value more: convenience and daily wear, or screen size and practice features. Both will improve your game by giving you accurate distances, but the one you’ll actually use every round is the one that’s better for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Garmin Approach S72 be used as a daily smartwatch?

Yes, the S72 is a full-featured smartwatch with notifications, music storage, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and Garmin Pay. It works with both Android and iOS phones, though some features like responding to texts are limited on iPhone.

Do handheld golf GPS devices require a subscription?

No, Garmin handhelds come with preloaded courses and free updates. You don’t need a subscription to access course maps or distances. Some other brands charge a yearly fee, but Garmin does not.

Is the launch monitor on the G80 accurate?

The G80’s launch monitor measures club speed, ball speed, smash factor, and swing tempo. It uses radar technology and is reasonably accurate for recreational use, but it’s not as precise as a professional launch monitor like TrackMan. It’s great for comparing swings and getting immediate feedback.

Can I use the S72 to track my shots without extra sensors?

Yes, the S72 has a built-in shot tracking feature that uses GPS to detect where you hit the ball. You can manually adjust the shot after each swing using the touchscreen. For automatic club tracking, you need the Approach CT10 sensors, which attach to the butt of your clubs.

Which device is better for a beginner golfer?

For a beginner, a handheld like the G80 might be more intuitive because the larger screen shows the hole layout clearly. However, the S72 is also easy to use and offers more features that can help you learn, like the virtual caddie. If budget is a concern, a simple watch like the S12 is a good starting point.

How often do I need to charge the S72 during a golf trip?

If you play one round a day (about 4 hours), the S72 will last about 5 days in GPS mode. If you also use it as a smartwatch 24/7, expect to charge it every 2-3 days. It charges to full in about 1 hour with a USB-C cable.

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