18.5.2016

Pro's:- Small, light-Good battery life- Great feature set given the size and price- Free course updates- Score and shot tracking- Excellent stats tracking on the Garmin Connect websiteCon’s:- Small display (at least if you’re clipping it to your bag)Detailed Review:I had an Approach S1 before this, which was a great watch but didn't have layup, hazard or pin views and, after about 4 years of solid use, and is now exhibiting a measuring error of about 10-15 yds. I’m not sure why, perhaps some water got in, but after 4 years of pretty much weekly use I can’t complain - it’s been a great watch. In comparison the G10 is about £10-£15 dearer,but I think well worth the extra given the additional features.The G10 comes provided with a printed quick start manual, but this only gives you the main pointers for using the device. The menus on the device are very intuitive anyway, but if you want the full manual (which covers other features not in the quick start guide, such as shot tracking and statistic) you can download it from (...)The G10 has a clip mounted to the back, so you can clip it to your cap, golf bag, belt or anywhere else. It’s also small enough to just slip in your pocket (which is what I do), and there’s also a slot at the top through which you can thread a lanyard or attach a carabiner clip. It's fully waterproof of course and Garmin claim safe in up to 1 meter of water for 30 mins, so if you do drop it in the lake accidentally all is not lost (provided it's not too deep and you can find it again!).In a way I miss having a watch as it’s always accessible, but that’s a minor point really. Note that if you do clip it onto your belt you have the option to flip the display (using the Screen Orientation setting in the option), which is a nice touch.Battery life is excellent - I will easily go 3 rounds, probably 4, whereas my old S1 would only last for about 2. The G10 locks onto satellites much more quickly than the S1 does, something which at times would be an annoyance with the S1 if you forgot to start your round on the watch before your first tee shot.The standard view shows a pictorial view of the green with centre, front and back distances, much like the S1. You can also measure shot distance (which the S1 also does). However unlike the S1 the G10 also gives you:- Layup distances and dogleg distances- Distance to hazards- Pin view, including the option to move the pin- Odometer (distance and time during round)- Scoring and statisticsIf you have scoring switched on it prompts you to enter your score as you reach each green, which is a nice touch. It also prompts you for stats (if you’ve enabled that), including whether you hit left or right of the fairway and how many putts you took. Stats are off by default - you enable them through the Stat Tracking option in the settings.Accuracy seems pretty much spot on - and having the pin placement option is a real bonus. Of course you only a have limited number of preset pin positions to choose from, but it’s much better than having to guess based on the front/middle/back distance, especially on deep greens.To get the most out of the G10 I recommend you go to (...) and download the GarminExpress application. This allows you to download software updates for the device, including course updates, but you have to create an account with Garmin to use it (but it’s free).One of the things I like about the Garmin range is that courses and the updates are free, unlike some competing golf GPS units. You can also download your scores and statistics, which is one of the features that brings this GPS into its own. Years ago I used to use a smart-phone app to track my statistics, so it’s great to have it all integrated into the GPS instead.Once you've uploaded your stats (using Gamin Express) you can view them on the Garmin Connect Website. Stats available include:- Best score- Average score- Longest drive- Fairways hit (%)- Greens in Regularion (%)- Putts per hole- Number of birdies, pars, bogies and double bogies, and your average number of strokes above/below par on par 3s, 4s and 5s.Each of the views can be drilled down into to show more detail, including averages per round.The amount of information and the ways in which you can display and analyse it are really impressive, and one of the standout features of this Golf GPS. The “dashboard” on the Garmin Connect site is fully configurable and you can set up multiple different “widgets” to show you different views of your stats. I think the only thing missing is a history view - perhaps it’s there but I couldn’t find it - e.g I’d like to graph how my average putts per hole has increased/decreased over time or even over one round. All the data is there so I don't see why Garmin can’t add this. Another thing I’d like to see added is the ability to download the stats yourself, so that you can analyse them in other packages like Excel. But I'm being picky really - the stats they give you and Garmin Connect is a great addition.In summary, this is a great Golf GPS for the price, packed with features, made even better with the addition of Garmin Connect and the wealth of game improvement stats it gives you. As noted above, Garmin Connect could be even better I think, but it’s already very good. Recommended.

28.4.2016

Early days, but I have played my first round today using this neat little item. I have to admit that I have been using another device until recently in the form of https://www.amazon.co.uk/Game-Golf-Tracking-System-Android/dp/B012OMWSRY?ie=UTF8&redirect=true Game Golf Tracking system for Android. It is a much more technically advanced item that the Garmin, but requires a mobile signal or Wi-Fi to uploa; it is more advanced in many ways and is significantly cheaper than the Garmin. So why give the Garmin 5 stars and why do I need two course advisors?Firstly I do like the Game Golf item and its software, but the Garmin is smaller and whilst it doesn't record things such as what club I used for which shot,like the Game Golf, I rarely analyse my game that much and therefore I really like the simplicity of the Garmin after just 18 holes. So what does it do? Firstly it clips onto my belt with the option to change the orientation of view; I configured mine so that I can just twist the unit on my belt and read it. The screen is neat and compact but provided me with all of the information I needed:+ Distance to the front of the green+ Distance to the Pin (adjustable during use if they have changed the saved pin position+ Distance to the back of the green+ Location of obstacles on par 4 and par 5 only.+ Distance for doglegs+ Distance of individual shots - useful for the odd occasion I really get hold of the ball; 200 metres now really is 200 metres.The other nice thing is that you can record your score and whilst it is nowhere near as detailed as the Game Golf, it is good enough for my needs. An additional benefit is that you canupload the data to the Garmin website where they store your information for further reference and comparison; again the Game Golf is better, but for my game, whilst I love the Game Golf, I don't use all of the information.. Transfer of data from the Garmin to the website is instant via USB after I had installed the necessary app on both my imac and laptop pc; shame that there isn't an app for the ipad yet!In regards to course recognition, the Garmin identified the course I was playing in less than 30 seconds from switching on, which is a lot faster to set up than the Game Golf and perhaps more importantly is not governed by having to own either an Android NFC enabled phone. I can only assume that the distances are accurate, when I compared it with the Game Golf, there was some minor differences of +/- 2 yards, but as someone who when he wields a 5 iron on the driving range, the distance I can strike the ball in the same line varies by as much as 20 yards, the odd yard here or there does not bother me.Garmin claim that the unit is water resistant to 10 metres, so well up to diving for that lost ball in the lake! They also states that the plastic is sensitive to deterioration is exposed to insect repellents like DEET; I must admit so are the grips on my clubs and so I am careful to wash my hands after application of insecticides.I do have some concerns re the price of this item, but it does work, is very simple to operate and doesn't require a mobile telephone. Perhaps more importantly, I used around 15% of the battery on a full round suggesting that 5-6 rounds between each charge would be the norm (you charge via USB in about 90 minutes from flat). Updates for life are free of charge and the Garmin just needs to be updated periodically to get both operating system and course database additions/amendments when you upload. One last thing, I played today on a small 9 hole course, which whilst popular is hardly likely to appear on every golfer's bucket list. The Garmin gave an accurate rendition of the key elements of the course and I am looking forward to taking it to some nearby courses, which are equally obscure to try it out.If you want accurate assessment of distance and hazards, this might be the thing for you, if you need more information on which club you used, how far the ball travelled, the trajectory etc, the Game Golf will provide you with lots of statistics. Suffice to say, both are five star items, but for my level of golf I think that I am more likely to have this item clipped on my belt than an Android phone in my pocket.UPDATE=======Two small 9 hole courses played in Dorset; both appeared when I requested them. It really did help with unknown courses, both of which were unable to provide me with details of the course in the club shop or bar. I am not sure whether this item will improve my golf, but I do like it. Shame you have to manually record the quantity of shots taken, unlike the Game Golf which records them automatically. Can't have everything though.

2.5.2016

I have a number of these golf gadgets in an attempt to improve my rather poor game but the problem is they can begin to distract you from the actual enjoyment of the game. Fitting sensors to your clubs, having to tap them before each shot and then fussing about when you forget, it has all seemed too much bother. This is where the Garmin Approach comes in, you clip it to your belt and in most cases that is it. It provides the yardage to the hole helping club selection and logs your game which can be uploaded later.It comes in a small branded box along with a USB charging lead but no charger and a basic Quick Start that shows how to charge it and the basic functions but little else.

7.5.2016

Not a hardcore golfer my any means, but I do play on occasion. I must say, even for my average requirements, this is quite a nice gadget, and I was very impressed by the course coverage, finding everything I tried. I would however suggest checking your local courses before purchase. You can do so online here:[...]The unit itself is small and unobtrusive, and worked perfectly out of the box (however I have subsequently updated mine to get the latest map and software updates, which was a painless easy to do affair). I was also impressed by accuracy, ease of operation, and battery life.It comes with map updates for life, which isn't to be sniffed at at all.

12.7.2016

After getting to know how to access the various menu features, I was excited to use the Garmin Approach G10 on an unfamiliar course for the first time.The hazard and layup information proved to be very useful to help me make consistent club choices. The only issue I can see with Garmin Approach G10 is its size. I had no problem reading the great information on it display but rather having to clip and unclip it from my belt to view it. At first, as I mentioned, I clipped it to my belt, but to read it you have to twist your belt... not practical for some waistlines!. Then I clipped it to my cap and finally in my pocket. I also experimented with clipping it to my watch band but was afraid I'd lose it when swinging the club.

13.10.2016

I have taken this out 3 times now and it worked flawlessly on two separate courses. the GPS locked in within :30 seconds. I compared distances with an optical range finder someone else in the foursome had and it was within 2 yards. I am not good enough that 2 yards would make any sort of difference. the distance to hazard and layup features came in helpful many times each round, allowing me to play 'smart golf' for a change and pick the best club for the distance.one other review suggested forgoing the lanyard and using double sided velcro instead. This is what i did and works perfectly. there is a feature to change orientation so that it hangs from my belt, i reach down and check my distance.

14.11.2017

This has proved an excellent little device. I got it as I had been looking at the Garmin watches, but was put off by the cost. This has been a very good purchase. It has found so far all the local courses to me, and a few in the Algarve on a recent holiday (it says it has 41,000 built in with free lifetime updates). The functionality is simple compared to the more expensive touch screen colour devices, but I haven't missed that. It's really lightweight so slips into your pocket and you don't notice its there. It moves from hole to hole pretty easily and the big buttons are good and work well with golf gloves. The hazard information (bunkers, water, layups) is very good, the same as a friend's £300 device,

26.5.2016

This is basically a great piece of kit for the money, very simple to use and give accurate yardages to the green that is useful for any golfer. Also very easy to keep your score.The downside, this unit is designed to be worn on the belt which is not very practical as the screen is then upside down unless you unclip the GPS every time.However, if you have a trolley with a score card holder then this could easily clip on there in which case it would be very accessible and very easy to use.Another down side is it has a special charger. If this used a micro USB charger it would be a real improvement as you could use your existing charge at home, in the car etc.So in summary.

18.6.2019

I have used this product numerous times on five different golf courses. Within one minute or so the course comes up. Distances compared to course markers and lasers of other golfers have always been right on or within a couple yards. Love the score keeper, often use distance to hazards and doglegs, and have changed the pin location many times. I have never fully discharged the unit but each time the use for 18 has depleted the charge no more than 25 percent. Could play four times on one charge. Some have complained about the buttons being small. I had two different Golf Buddies. These buttons make those look like gnats. These are much easier to use. With the Golf Buddies I received, at best,

11.4.2017

Been using this now for about 2 months and I'm very impressed by it. I have used it in Spain and at my local course and it finds the course very quickly and the distances seem very accurate. Have used the distance to hazards function which is a very helpful and also it can keep your score so you know how badly you're playing!! You can also set the flag position on the green but I think this function is for better players than me.You can also set it up to record how many putts you take but I've not used this function either. I have been attaching it to my golf bag and have played in the rain with no problems at all.All in all a very great wee device that hopefully over time will help me work out how long each club goes and improve my scores.

6.8.2019

GPS works as expected. Finds and loads course info very quickly. Seems to be accurate but I don’t have anything other than the course markers to compare it to (I’m the only member of our group with a GPS or rangefinder). Battery life seems to be excellent. I can play 9 holes with less than 10% battery usage. After 3 consecutive 9 hole rounds the battery gauge showed 75%. Charging was very quick although I do have a concern about the exposed charging terminals . Will they be damaged by moisture? Had to get used to the size and the small text as I play golf with single vision glasses rather than my normal progressive lenses. Just getting used to the many options and still need to download the app.

22.9.2017

Superb Buy.Wanted yardage gps for a while but didn't want to pay loads for one. At the price this was, thought i'd take the chance and go for it.When i 1st opened package thought that device was too small, but had no problems reading everything on screen and for me does everything required.1st time i used it was for a weekend trip to the belfry where we were playing 2 rounds over 2 days and it stayed charged for both rounds without need for recharging. Charging is easy though and usb lead fits into my plug that i use to charge my phone so no need to buy seperate charger.Easy to follow on screen layout to quickly find distance to front/centre/back of greens and to hazards as well.Would definetly

23.1.2018

Easy to use and very accurate. I also use a laser, so I’ve done a lot of comparing and the readings are right in line with the laser.The thing I like about this is it’s easier to just stick this in your pocket and get a quick reading rather than fumble around with the laser. Feel bad when I’m in a foursome and going to the bag every shot to get the laser, like I’m holding everyone up.I also like to get the front and back of the green yardage. Then I know my min/max clubs depending on the pin placement.It has several features, but I only care about the distance and greens front/middle/back readings.Played a round with a friend of mine and he ended up buying one for himself.

15.10.2016

Absolutely love this device, Just played four rounds on the bounce in Spain and this has helped me sooooo much!! I don't use the clip I keep it on my pocket and its fine using it this way. Secondly, it loads in seconds - superb. Thirdly, its dead easy to use - nothing fancy just straight forward information. It can be changed from yards to metres in an instant as well. I'm just a bit puzzled with the price. I called into one of the larger Tesco stores and went to their technical section to ask about a Garmin S2 watch. The assistant brought this to me - it cost £59.99!!?? No idea what happened there but it's been an brilliant bargain. Fully recommend even at the higher price.

22.7.2016

If you are tired of hauling your smart phone or large range finder device to your ball to get a yardage, this is the device for you. It clips onto your belt or your hat very easily and conveniently and provides accurate yardage to the pin and front/back of the green. It also provides helpful layup yardage as well as distance to hazards and also tracks your scores which can be uploaded to Garmin connect later. The G10 also tracks shot distances easily, which is helpful to calibrate your distances with each club. The only drawback I've noticed is that, occasionally, in a rural area, it will not get a satellite signal which prevents you from downloading the course data.

Garmin Approach G10 - Reviews

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