Watches for golf: the 9 best 2025 watches to improve your score, inspired by Rory McIlroy

Choosing the right watches for golf changes the rhythm of a game, right from the start of 1. The wrist becomes a discreet marker that reassures without distracting. The result is greater consistency, hole after hole, without wasting time between clubs.

How to choose right from the start

On a race course, real need takes precedence over style, even if style does count. So a watch should offer accurate GPS, clear readouts and a simple interface. What’s more, wrist ergonomics help when the pressure’s on at putting. The best golf watches simplify the next shot, rather than over-measuring everything.

The question of budget quickly comes to mind, but the utility/price ratio remains decisive. Time is saved with a quick display of key distances and obstacles. Weather and sunlight readability are also important factors. Golf watches must remain reliable over 18 holes, even when the day stretches on.

The bonus functions are appealing, but their impact on the score needs to be judged. A virtual caddy helps to frame the decision, if you know its dispersion. Then, keeping track of the score must be fluid, with no friction on the next tee. Golf watches focus above all on consistency and risk management.

“In golf, the best watch is the one that disappears on the wrist.”

Key scoring functions

Hole mapping remains the basis, as it guides strategy. A display of the green, lay-ups and doglegs provides reassurance before the swing. In addition, a training mode and swing sensors can structure a session. Watches for golfers need to move from the driving range to the course without changing their habits.

Autonomy has to keep up, and simple recharging avoids stress. Consequently, thrifty screen management and optimized modes make all the difference. Compatibility with scoring and analysis applications also extends usage. Golf watches become even more valuable when data remains clear and actionable.

• Prioritize quick, easy-to-read GPS
• Check the fit over 18 holes
• Checking screen simplicity
• Choose reliable route maps
• Test useful, non-intrusive alerts

Rolex – Oyster Perpetual Air-King. Classic in the clubhouse, it remains robust on the driving range and easy to read in the sun. It aims for reliability and sobriety, without integrated golf functions.

Connected and dedicated selection

Tag Heuer – Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition. Designed for the golf course, it features dedicated dials and clear score tracking. This makes it one of those golf watches that combines design, useful data and comfort.

Garmin – Approach S62. A segment benchmark, it features strategic guidance and rapid distance reading. What’s more, it’s one of the most popular golf watches for its “caddie” approach on the wrist.

Garmin – Approach S42. Lighter, it focuses on simplicity and legibility, with the essentials on the green. As such, it’s aimed at those who want a watch for golf, without an overload of options.

Garmin – Approach S12. Minimalist and efficient, it gets the job done with sober, fast screens. As a result, it fits in well with a collection of watches for playing golf without driving up the bill.

Fairway support technology

Garmin – Approach G80. Dedicated to golf, it complements a wristwatch with clear cartography and useful metrics. In this way, it helps you prepare a shot under pressure, without having to multiply your manipulations.

Apple – Watch Ultra. Resistant and highly legible, it can be transformed into a golf tool via specialized applications and adapted dials. So, it joins the family of watches for golfers who want a broad sporting use for the rest of the week.

Consumer options and dedicated aids

Samsung – Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. Versatile, it serves as a companion to the game thanks to course apps and good stamina. What’s more, it’s one of the most accessible golf watches for those who want a multisport wrist.

SkyCaddie – SX500. A portable GPS with a large screen, it offers detailed cartography that reassures you about your choice of target. In short, it complements or replaces a watch when you prefer a wide view and precise maps.

Bushnell – Wingman. A voice assistant for golf, it announces distances and enlivens the game with sound, without distracting from the tempo. So it fits in well with a range of golf watches, especially for keeping your eye on the ball.

• golf watches