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Garmin Approach S42 Review | 126 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£260
Avg. price in US: ~$300
Screen size: 1.20 inch
Battery life: 10 days
Display type: MIP LCD

Garmin Approach S42 review. Compare 126 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Smartwatches category and whether it is worth buying.

5.5

Good

5.2

Good

8.7

Excellent

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#56 in Best Garmin Smartwatches
#56 in Best Garmin Smartwatches For Women
#56 in Best Garmin Smartwatches For Men
#229 in Best Smartwatches With NFC
#302 in Best GPS Smartwatches
#411 in Best Smartwatches For iPhone
#413 in Best Smartwatches For Android
#413 in Best Android Smartwatches For Men
#413 in Best Android Smartwatches For Women
#441 in Best Smartwatches
#482 in Best Smartwatches For Quality-Price Ratio

Verdict

The Garmin Approach S42 is a mid-range golf smartwatch featuring a 1.2-inch sunlight-readable colour touchscreen (240 x 240 resolution) housed in a lightweight 43g metal bezel design. Key characteristics include GPS tracking for over 42,000 preloaded global courses, Green View for manual pin positioning, and AutoShot detection to record shot distances. It offers a solid battery life of up to 15 hours in GPS mode and 10 days in smartwatch mode, alongside daily activity tracking for steps and sleep and a 5 ATM water rating. Pros include its stylish design suitable for off-course wear, highly accurate yardage, and a responsive interface that pairs seamlessly with the Garmin Golf app for performance analysis. However, notable cons include the lack of a built-in heart rate monitor, the use of a proprietary charging cable, and a display that is less vibrant than modern AMOLED screens.

Technical Specifications of smartwatch Garmin Approach S42

Overall score

5.5

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartwatch.

When it matters: When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.

Health

2.5

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Brand name

What it is: The company that designs, sells, and supports the watch.

When it matters: When brand ecosystem, style, or support matters to you.

Importance: LOW

Garmin

Heart rate monitor

What it is: A built-in sensor that measures your pulse directly from the wrist.

When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

Importance: MEDIUM

Blood oxygen monitoring

What it is: A wrist-based feature that estimates blood oxygen saturation over time.

When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

Importance: MEDIUM

ECG

What it is: The ability to record a single-lead electrocardiogram from the wrist.

When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

Importance: MEDIUM

Irregular heart rate warnings

What it is: Notifications that flag heart-rate patterns which appear unusually irregular.

When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

Importance: LOW

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Fitness

7.8

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Accelerometer

What it is: A motion sensor that measures acceleration, steps, gestures, and general movement.

When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

Importance: LOW

Barometer

What it is: A pressure sensor used for altitude changes, elevation estimates, and weather-related context.

When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

Importance: LOW

Gyroscope

What it is: A motion sensor that measures rotation and helps interpret wrist movement more accurately.

When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

Importance: LOW

Cadence sensor

What it is: A sensor input used to measure step or pedal rhythm during training.

When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

Importance: LOW

Distance tracking

What it is: The ability to measure how far you move during walks, runs, rides, or other activities.

When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Battery

5.0

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Battery life

What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.

When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=7 days

Battery life in training mode

What it is: The expected endurance while workout tracking and related training functions are active.

When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=36.8 h

Battery life with GPS on

What it is: The expected runtime when satellite tracking stays active throughout use.

When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=35 h

Battery power

What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=397 mAh

Charge time

What it is: The time needed to recharge the battery from empty to full or to a stated percentage.

When it matters: When you want to top up the battery quickly.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=102 min

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Smart features

4.5

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Operating system

What it is: The software platform that runs the watch interface, apps, and core functions.

When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

Importance: MEDIUM

Software update frequency

What it is: Shows how actively the watch is still updated: regular means ongoing updates throughout active support, occasional means updates every few months or only from time to time, and ended means active software support has mostly stopped.

When it matters: When you care how actively the watch is still supported with fixes, patches, and new features.

Importance: MEDIUM

Third-party app support

What it is: Support for installing or using apps from developers beyond the watch maker.

When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

Importance: LOW

Notifications

What it is: Mirroring of calls, messages, apps, or other alerts on the watch.

When it matters: When you want to check alerts without taking out your phone.

Importance: LOW

Voice assistant support

What it is: Support for a voice assistant that can answer queries or trigger actions from the wrist.

When it matters: When you want to control the watch or reply without typing.

Importance: LOW

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Connectivity

6.2

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Cellular module

What it is: Built-in mobile connectivity that can keep the watch online away from the phone.

When it matters: When you want calls, messages, or data without your phone nearby.

Importance: LOW

SIM cards

What it is: The number or type of SIM options the watch accepts for cellular service.

When it matters: When you want calls, messages, or data without your phone nearby.

Importance: LOW

Good value: eSIM support

0

GPS

What it is: Built-in satellite positioning that lets the watch record location during outdoor activity.

When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Galileo support

What it is: Support for Galileo satellites alongside other positioning systems.

When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

Importance: LOW

Compass

What it is: A directional sensor that helps the watch determine heading and orientation.

When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

Importance: LOW

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Display & Design

6.1

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Screen size

What it is: The diagonal measurement of the visible display area, usually expressed in inches.

When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=1.5 inch

Display type

What it is: The screen technology used by the watch, such as AMOLED, OLED, or memory-in-pixel LCD.

When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

Importance: LOW

Resolution

What it is: The total number of pixels available on the watch display.

When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=416 x 416

Pixel density

What it is: The number of pixels packed into each inch of the display.

When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=326 ppi

Display brightness

What it is: The peak brightness the display can reach, usually expressed in nits.

When it matters: When you want the screen to stay readable outdoors and in strong sunlight.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=1000 nits

?

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Hardware

5.9

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CPU speed

What it is: The clock speed of the watch processor, usually expressed in GHz or MHz.

When it matters: When you want apps and menus to feel smooth.

Importance: LOW

Good value: Modern standard

?

Processor model

What it is: The processor model is the chipset or SoC that powers the watch's performance, connectivity, and efficiency.

When it matters: When you care about app responsiveness, platform generation, and long-term feature support.

Importance: LOW

Good value: modern smartwatch chipset

?

RAM

What it is: The amount of working memory available for apps, watch faces, and background tasks.

When it matters: When you want apps and menus to feel smooth.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=1 GB

?

Internal storage

What it is: Built-in storage for apps, music, watch faces, and other local data.

When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=8 GB

?

External memory slot

What it is: A slot for expandable storage such as a memory card, if the watch provides one.

When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

Importance: LOW

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Garmin Approach S42 vs the average smartwatch

Why is Garmin Approach S42 better than the average smartwatch?

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More advanced operating system
Garmin Approach S42 runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).
OS detail: Proprietary OS (RTOS).
What it is: The software platform that runs the watch interface, apps, and core functions.
When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.
Importance: MEDIUM
Garmin Approach S42 runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS
NFC functionality
Garmin Approach S42 supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 43.4% of smartwatches support NFC.
What it is: Near-field communication hardware used for payments, pairing, or quick tap-based actions.
When it matters: When you want to pay quickly or pair devices with a tap.
Importance: LOW
Garmin Approach S42 supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 43.4% of smartwatches support NFC.
More frequent updates
Garmin Approach S42 receives occasional software updates, while the average smartwatch receives ended updates.
Updates are typically released about every 3 months.
What it is: Shows how actively the watch is still updated: regular means ongoing updates throughout active support, occasional means updates every few months or only from time to time, and ended means active software support has mostly stopped.
When it matters: When you care how actively the watch is still supported with fixes, patches, and new features.
Importance: MEDIUM
Garmin Approach S42 receives occasional software updates, while the average smartwatch receives ended updates.occasional vs ended
Calorie tracking
Garmin Approach S42 supports calorie tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 48.6% of smartwatches support calorie tracking.
What it is: Estimated calorie burn based on movement, heart data, and user profile inputs.
When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.
Importance: LOW
Garmin Approach S42 supports calorie tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 48.6% of smartwatches support calorie tracking.
Supports ANT+
Garmin Approach S42 supports ANT+, the average smartwatch does not. 11.7% of smartwatches support ANT+.
What it is: Support for ANT+ accessories such as heart-rate straps, bike sensors, and gym equipment.
When it matters: When you want the watch to work with fitness gear and other accessories.
Importance: LOW
Garmin Approach S42 supports ANT+, the average smartwatch does not. 11.7% of smartwatches support ANT+.
Galileo satellite support
Garmin Approach S42 supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.5% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
What it is: Support for Galileo satellites alongside other positioning systems.
When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.
Importance: LOW
Garmin Approach S42 supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.5% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
3 days day/s longer battery life
Garmin Approach S42 offers 10 days of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 days.
10 (in smartwatch mode, 15 hours in gps mode.
What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.
When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=7 days
Garmin Approach S42 offers 10 days of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 days.10 days vs 7 days
Route support
Garmin Approach S42 supports route support, the average smartwatch does not. 50% of smartwatches support route support.
What it is: Support for following saved routes, courses, or turn guidance during activities.
When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.
Importance: LOW
Garmin Approach S42 supports route support, the average smartwatch does not. 50% of smartwatches support route support.
Calorie tracking
Garmin Approach S42 supports calorie tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 48.6% of smartwatches support calorie tracking.
Water intake tracking
Garmin Approach S42 tracks water intake, the average smartwatch does not. 44% of smartwatches track water intake.
Route support
Garmin Approach S42 supports route support, the average smartwatch does not. 50% of smartwatches support route support.
3 days day/s longer battery life
Garmin Approach S42 offers 10 days of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 days.
NFC functionality
Garmin Approach S42 supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 43.4% of smartwatches support NFC.
Supports ANT+
Garmin Approach S42 supports ANT+, the average smartwatch does not. 11.7% of smartwatches support ANT+.
Galileo satellite support
Garmin Approach S42 supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.5% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
Stronger display glass
Garmin Approach S42 uses chemically strengthened glass display glass, while the average smartwatch uses mineral glass.
2 mm narrower band
Garmin Approach S42 has a narrower band width than the average smartwatch (20 mm vs 22.0 mm). The average smartwatch band is 22.0 mm wide.
15 °C higher max temperature
Garmin Approach S42 handles a higher maximum operating temperature than the average smartwatch (60 °C vs 45.0 °C). The average smartwatch reaches 45.0 °C.
More advanced operating system
Garmin Approach S42 runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).
More frequent updates
Garmin Approach S42 receives occasional software updates, while the average smartwatch receives ended updates.

Display & Design

Why is Garmin Approach S42 worse than the average smartwatch?

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No blood oxygen monitoring
Garmin Approach S42 does not support blood oxygen monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 66.7% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
No heart rate monitor
Garmin Approach S42 does not include a heart rate monitor, the average smartwatch does. 89.5% of smartwatches include a heart rate monitor.
No stress monitoring
Garmin Approach S42 does not support stress monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 65.4% of smartwatches support stress monitoring.
No sleep tracking
Garmin Approach S42 does not support sleep tracking, the average smartwatch does. 93.1% of smartwatches support sleep tracking.
No route tracking
Garmin Approach S42 does not support route tracking, the average smartwatch does. 74.6% of smartwatches support route tracking.
No swim mode
Garmin Approach S42 does not include a swim sport mode, the average smartwatch does. 74.9% of smartwatches include a swim sport mode.
77 fewer exercise profiles
Garmin Approach S42 supports fewer exercise modes than the average smartwatch (3 vs 80). The average smartwatch supports 80 exercise modes.
No voice feedback
Garmin Approach S42 does not support voice feedback, the average smartwatch does. 61.9% of smartwatches support voice feedback.
Basic battery type
Garmin Approach S42 uses a Li-ion battery, while the average smartwatch uses Li-Po.
5 h shorter GPS battery life
Garmin Approach S42 lasts less with GPS on than the average smartwatch (15 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
60 mAh smaller battery capacity
Garmin Approach S42 has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartwatch (240 mAh vs 300 mAh). The average smartwatch battery is 300 mAh.
4.25 h shorter training battery life
Garmin Approach S42 lasts less in training mode than the average smartwatch (15 h vs 19.25 h). The average smartwatch lasts 19.25 h.
15 (hours in gps mode.
No compass
Garmin Approach S42 does not include a compass, the average smartwatch does. 52.6% of smartwatches include a compass.
No always-on display
Garmin Approach S42 does not have an always-on display, the average smartwatch does. 67.6% of smartwatches have an always-on display.
Basic display type
Garmin Approach S42 uses MIP LCD display technology, while the average smartwatch features AMOLED.
No ambient light sensor
Garmin Approach S42 does not include an ambient light sensor, the average smartwatch does. 60.7% of smartwatches include an ambient light sensor.
0.2 inch smaller screen size
Garmin Approach S42 has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1.2 inch vs 1.40 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.
Lower resolution
Garmin Approach S42 has a display resolution of 240x240, while the average smartwatch reaches 352x430.
43 ppi lower pixel density
Garmin Approach S42 has a lower pixel density than the average smartwatch (283 ppi vs 326 ppi). The average smartwatch display reaches 326 ppi.
No music playback
Garmin Approach S42 does not support music playback, the average smartwatch does. 54.2% of smartwatches support music playback.
No voice assistant
Garmin Approach S42 does not support voice assistants, the average smartwatch does. 67.7% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
No call answering
Garmin Approach S42 does not support call answering, the average smartwatch does. 58.1% of smartwatches support call answering.
No voice command support
Garmin Approach S42 does not support voice commands, the average smartwatch does. 67% of smartwatches support voice commands.
No smart alarm
Garmin Approach S42 does not support a smart alarm, the average smartwatch does. 52.7% of smartwatches support smart alarms.
No camera remote
Garmin Approach S42 does not include built-in camera remote control, the average smartwatch does. 85.6% of smartwatches that are equipped with a camera include built-in camera remote control.
No speaker
Garmin Approach S42 does not include a built-in speaker, the average smartwatch does. 56.1% of smartwatches include a built-in speaker.
1 fewer microphones
Garmin Approach S42 has fewer microphones than the average smartwatch (0 vs 1). The average smartwatch includes 1 microphones.
No blood oxygen monitoring
Garmin Approach S42 does not support blood oxygen monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 66.7% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
What it is: A wrist-based feature that estimates blood oxygen saturation over time.
When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.
Importance: MEDIUM
Garmin Approach S42 does not support blood oxygen monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 66.7% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
No heart rate monitor
Garmin Approach S42 does not include a heart rate monitor, the average smartwatch does. 89.5% of smartwatches include a heart rate monitor.
What it is: A built-in sensor that measures your pulse directly from the wrist.
When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.
Importance: MEDIUM
Garmin Approach S42 does not include a heart rate monitor, the average smartwatch does. 89.5% of smartwatches include a heart rate monitor.
No stress monitoring
Garmin Approach S42 does not support stress monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 65.4% of smartwatches support stress monitoring.
What it is: Stress estimates derived from heart rate, HRV, or similar body signals.
When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.
Importance: LOW
Garmin Approach S42 does not support stress monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 65.4% of smartwatches support stress monitoring.
No sleep tracking
Garmin Approach S42 does not support sleep tracking, the average smartwatch does. 93.1% of smartwatches support sleep tracking.
What it is: Automatic recording of sleep duration, stages, or sleep quality from overnight wear.
When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.
Importance: MEDIUM
Garmin Approach S42 does not support sleep tracking, the average smartwatch does. 93.1% of smartwatches support sleep tracking.
No route tracking
Garmin Approach S42 does not support route tracking, the average smartwatch does. 74.6% of smartwatches support route tracking.
What it is: Route recording that stores the path taken during an outdoor session.
When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.
Importance: LOW
Garmin Approach S42 does not support route tracking, the average smartwatch does. 74.6% of smartwatches support route tracking.
No music playback
Garmin Approach S42 does not support music playback, the average smartwatch does. 54.2% of smartwatches support music playback.
What it is: Playback of music or audio directly from the watch, with or without a phone nearby.
When it matters: When you want audio, calls, or voice features on the watch itself.
Importance: LOW
Garmin Approach S42 does not support music playback, the average smartwatch does. 54.2% of smartwatches support music playback.
No always-on display
Garmin Approach S42 does not have an always-on display, the average smartwatch does. 67.6% of smartwatches have an always-on display.
What it is: A display mode that keeps key information visible even when the watch is idle.
When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.
Importance: LOW
Garmin Approach S42 does not have an always-on display, the average smartwatch does. 67.6% of smartwatches have an always-on display.
No swim mode
Garmin Approach S42 does not include a swim sport mode, the average smartwatch does. 74.9% of smartwatches include a swim sport mode.
What it is: A dedicated workout mode tuned for pool or open-water swimming.
When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.
Importance: LOW
Garmin Approach S42 does not include a swim sport mode, the average smartwatch does. 74.9% of smartwatches include a swim sport mode.

Display & Design

Graphic comparison of Garmin Approach S42 and other Smartwatches

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: April 2026)

What customers like about Garmin Approach S42?

Impressive battery life, lasting up to 15 hours in full GPS mode or 10 days in smartwatch mode
High GPS accuracy for distances to greens, hazards, and doglegs
Bright, 1.2-inch colour touchscreen that remains readable in direct sunlight
Sleek and stylish design suitable for both on-course play and everyday wear
Preloaded with over 42,000 golf courses worldwide and supports AutoShot tracking
Simple one-button interface and responsive touchscreen performance

What customers dislike about Garmin Approach S42?

Lacks built-in heart rate monitoring, which is common in other smartwatches
Uses a proprietary charging cable rather than a standard USB-C or micro-USB
Notifications can be intrusive as users cannot selectively filter which apps send alerts
Does not support Garmin Pay for contactless payments
AutoShot feature does not track putts or soft chip shots around the green
Screen resolution and brightness are lower compared to OLED competitors like the Apple Watch

Expert reviews

tomsguide.com

27/02/2026

Summary of the review

Garmin Approach S42 review | Tom's Guide

The Tom's Guide review positions the Garmin Approach S42 as a stylish, mid-range golf watch, featuring a 1.2-inch touchscreen and a lightweight design suitable for both the course and daily wear. A key advantage is its exceptional battery life, lasting through four full rounds of golf on a single charge. The device delivers high-precision GPS, accurate shot tracking with AutoShot, and granular yardage via Green View, making it highly effective for course navigation. However, the watch faces limitations in functionality and interface. It lacks a heart rate monitor and comprehensive fitness tracking features, and the single-button design can make navigating menus less efficient. Furthermore, it omits premium, higher-end capabilities like the Virtual Caddie found in the S62 model. Despite these omissions, the S42 is recommended as a strong, specialized option for golfers prioritizing essential, reliable data over advanced smartwatch features.

outofboundsgolf.com

20/01/2025

Summary of the review

Garmin Approach S42 Golf Watch: An HONEST Review

According to the Out of Bounds Golf review, the Garmin Approach S42 is a stylish, mid-range GPS watch featuring a durable design with a metal buckle and strengthened glass. The watch provides highly accurate, pre-loaded course data for over 42,000 locations, along with AutoShot detection and manual pin placement, all while boasting a battery life capable of lasting through three rounds. While suitable for many, it lacks premium features like slope-adjusted distances, requires manual club selection for tracking, and utilizes a proprietary charger.

breakingeighty.com

08/07/2024

Summary of the review

Garmin Approach S42 GPS Golf Watch Review

The Garmin Approach S42 is presented as a high-quality, mid-range golf watch focusing on accurate, essential on-course data like distances to the green and hazard tracking. A key strength is its compatibility with Garmin CT10 sensors, which provides detailed, high-end post-round analysis in a user-friendly package. However, the device occupies an awkward market position by lacking the advanced, high-end features like virtual caddie and heart rate monitoring found in more expensive models, while still featuring a dated screen and proprietary charging cable. Overall, the S42 is recommended for golfers prioritizing a dedicated, accurate on-course tool, though users seeking a more complete, modern smartwatch experience might prefer to explore more premium options.

techradar.com

13/04/2021

Summary of the review

Garmin Approach S42 review

The Garmin Approach S42 is a mid-range GPS golf watch balancing on-course tracking with a stylish, lightweight design, featuring a 1.2-inch color touchscreen that remains highly visible in direct sunlight. It provides precise, automatic data for over 42,000 pre-loaded courses, with key features including Green View for manual pin positioning and rapid hazard distance calculation. However, notable limitations highlighted include the absence of Garmin Pay and a heart rate monitor, along with a lack of granular, customizable notification filtering. The device offers solid battery performance, lasting up to 15 hours in GPS mode, and utilizes a proprietary charging cable, complementing its 5 ATM water resistance. For more details, visit TechRadar.

golfmonthly.com

06/11/2023

Summary of the review

Garmin Approach S42 GPS Watch Review

The Garmin Approach S42 is a stylish, lightweight mid-range GPS watch that functions effectively both on the course and in social settings. It provides precise yardages to the green and hazards, featuring a clear 1.2-inch touchscreen and an AutoShot round analyzer. While praised for its versatility and accurate mapping, the device requires time to master its single-button interface and lacks advanced health tracking features like a heart rate monitor.

golfstun.de

01/03/2021

Summary of the review

Garmin Approach S42 – Golf Watch Review by Golfstunde

The Garmin Approach S42 is a stylish, 1.2-inch touchscreen golf watch featuring preloaded maps for over 42,000 courses, making it highly user-friendly. Its key strengths include rapid GPS detection, automatic hole recognition, and a versatile design suitable for daily wear, supported by smart notifications and basic fitness tracking. Technically, the device provides accurate front/middle/back green distances, hazard identification, and 'Green View' for precise manual pin placement. However, it lacks premium features found on higher-end models, such as slope-adjusted 'PlaysLike' distances and a virtual caddie. While the 15-hour GPS battery life is solid, heavy usage requires regular charging. Designed for golfers seeking performance without top-tier prices, the S42 excels with 'AutoShot' data recording and comprehensive Garmin Golf App integration for performance analysis. Despite lacking advanced heart rate sensors or premium mapping, it remains a reliable, lightweight, and readable option, though the screen may appear dim in specific, low-light conditions.

golfafstandsmeter.nl

Unknown

Summary of the review

Garmin S42 Review and Best Deal - Golf Rangefinder

The Garmin Approach S42 is a stylish, lightweight golf smartwatch featuring a 1.2-inch color touchscreen and over 42,000 preloaded courses worldwide. It is designed to assist golfers with critical distance data to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as hazards and doglegs. Priced at €279.99, it offers aesthetic variety with Rose Gold, Stainless Steel, and Carbon Grey finishes, alongside interchangeable bands to match any outfit.

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