When it comes to improving my golf game, I’ve always believed in the power of technology. As an avid golfer, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with golf GPS watches, and two of the most talked-about models on the market right now are the Garmin S70 and the Fenix 7 Pro. In this review, I’ll share my personal experiences and insights into how these two watches performed on the golf course.
Design and Comfort:
Garmin S70: The Garmin S70 immediately caught my eye with its sleek design and vibrant touchscreen. The large, easy-to-read display is a huge plus, especially when I’m out on the course and need quick access to information. The lightweight and comfortable band made it feel like I wasn’t wearing a watch at all, which is crucial during long rounds.
Fenix 7 Pro: On the other hand, the Fenix 7 Pro has a more rugged, adventure-ready appearance. While it might not be as sleek as the S70, its robust build and durable materials gave me confidence that it could handle the wear and tear of the golf course. The silicone band was comfortable, but it did feel a bit bulkier compared to the S70.
Golf Features:
Garmin S70: When it comes to golf-specific features, the S70 impressed me. It provides detailed hole information, including yardages to hazards, layup distances, and green shapes. The touchscreen made it easy to scroll through these details even in bright sunlight. The S70 also tracks my shot distances accurately, which has been incredibly helpful for refining my club selection.
Fenix 7 Pro: The Fenix 7 Pro, while not designed exclusively for golf, offers a comprehensive set of golf features. It also provides precise yardages and hazard information, but I found that navigating these features was slightly less intuitive due to its button-based interface. However, the Fenix 7 Pro shines as a multisport watch, making it versatile beyond just golf.
Battery Life:
Garmin S70: One thing I appreciated about the S70 was its impressive battery life. It easily lasted through multiple rounds of golf on a single charge, which is essential for long days on the course. This meant I didn’t have to worry about the watch dying mid-round.
Fenix 7 Pro: The Fenix 7 Pro also offers good battery life, especially considering its extensive feature set. It lasted through my rounds with ease and still had enough juice left for tracking my activities off the course. It’s reassuring to know I won’t run out of power during my golf trips.
Personal Tips for Choosing the Right Golf GPS Watch:
Having shared my experiences with the Garmin S70 and Fenix 7 Pro, I want to offer some personal tips for anyone looking to choose the right golf GPS watch:
- Assess Your Needs: Consider how you primarily intend to use the watch. If golf is your main focus, a dedicated golf GPS watch like the S70 might be the best choice. However, if you’re an all-around outdoor enthusiast, the versatility of the Fenix 7 Pro might appeal to you.
- Comfort and Style: Think about your comfort and style preferences. A watch that feels comfortable on your wrist and suits your personal style can make a big difference in your overall satisfaction.
- Battery Life: Evaluate the battery life, especially if you plan on spending long days on the golf course. Having a watch that can last through multiple rounds without needing a charge is a significant advantage.
- Ease of Use: Consider how easy it is to navigate the watch’s interface. You want a device that provides the information you need quickly and without unnecessary complications, especially while on the course.
- Budget: Lastly, factor in your budget. Both the Garmin S70 and Fenix 7 Pro are quality devices, but their prices may vary. Choose the one that offers the best value for your money based on your priorities.
Design and Build
| Feature | Garmin S70 | Fenix 7 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 1.4 inches | 1.5 inches |
| Weight | 61 grams | 83 grams |
| Dimensions | 47 x 47 x 14.8 mm | 51 x 51 x 15.3 mm |
| Build Material | Stainless Steel | Titanium or Stainless |
| Water Resistance | 10 ATM (100m) | 10 ATM (100m) |
| Colors Available | Black, White, Silver | Silver, Black, Gray |
| Watch Band Options | Silicone or Leather | Silicone or Titanium |
| Interchangeable Bands | Yes | Yes |
| QuickFit Bands | Yes | Yes |
| Bezel Material | Ceramic | Titanium |
| Screen Material | Corning Gorilla Glass | Sapphire Crystal |
Display and Performance
| Feature | Garmin S70 | Fenix 7 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Type | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Resolution | 260 x 260 pixels | 280 x 280 pixels |
| Always-On Display | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life (GPS) | Up to 20 hours | Up to 35 hours |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch) | Up to 7 days | Up to 14 days |
| Processor | Dual-core | Dual-core |
| Storage | 16 GB | 32 GB |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo |
| Heart Rate Monitor | Yes | Yes |
| Pulse Oximeter | Yes | Yes |
Sports and Fitness Features
| Feature | Garmin S70 | Fenix 7 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Preloaded Sports Apps | Golf, Running, Cycling | Golf, Running, Cycling |
| Golf Features | Green View, AutoShot | Green View, AutoShot |
| Heart Rate Zones | Yes | Yes |
| VO2 Max Estimation | Yes | Yes |
| Recovery Advisor | Yes | Yes |
| Training Load Analysis | Yes | Yes |
| Sleep Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Stress Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Body Battery | Yes | Yes |
| Hydration Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Altitude Acclimation | Yes | Yes |
Connectivity and Smart Features
| Feature | Garmin S70 | Fenix 7 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Music Storage | Yes (Up to 500 songs) | Yes (Up to 2,000 songs) |
| Smartphone Notifications | Yes | Yes |
| Garmin Pay | Yes | Yes |
| Offline Maps | Yes | Yes |
| Golf Course Maps | 42,000+ worldwide | 42,000+ worldwide |
| Voice Assistant | Yes | Yes |
| Compatibility (iOS/Android) | Yes | Yes |
| App Store | Connect IQ | Connect IQ |
Price and Availability
| Feature | Garmin S70 | Fenix 7 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Starting) | $599.99 | $699.99 |
| Availability | Released in 2023 | Released in 2023 |
Conclusion:
In my experience, both the Garmin S70 and Fenix 7 Pro have their strengths and are excellent choices for golfers. The S70’s sleek design, intuitive touchscreen, and exceptional battery life make it a standout golf GPS watch. On the other hand, the Fenix 7 Pro’s durability and versatility across various sports make it a solid choice for golfers who want more than just golf features.
Ultimately, the choice between these two watches depends on your preferences and how you plan to use them beyond golf. For me, as a passionate golfer who values simplicity and performance on the course, the Garmin S70 remains my top choice. However, the Fenix 7 Pro is a strong contender for those seeking a multisport watch that can accompany them on all their outdoor adventures.
Remember, the best watch for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities, so take the time to consider what matters most to you as a golfer.
