As a dedicated golfer who has relied on various golfing gadgets and technology over the years to improve my game, I recently found myself faced with a difficult decision: should I upgrade to the Garmin S70 or stick with my trusty Garmin S60? In this review, I’ll share my personal experience and insights, comparing these two impressive golf GPS watches from Garmin.
Background:
Before delving into the comparison, it’s essential to understand where I’m coming from. I’ve been an avid golfer for quite some time, and I’ve always been keen on using technology to enhance my performance on the golf course. The Garmin S60 has been my loyal companion for a while now, and I was eager to see if the newer S70 could offer significant improvements.
Design and Build Quality:
Garmin S60:
The Garmin S60 boasts a sleek and durable design that has served me well throughout my rounds. Its comfortable fit and stylish appearance make it a reliable companion on the course. The touchscreen display is responsive, and the watch feels sturdy on my wrist.
Garmin S70:
When I unboxed the Garmin S70, I immediately noticed the larger and more vibrant touchscreen display. The watch exudes a premium feel, and the additional size is welcomed for easy reading. The build quality seems even more robust, instilling confidence that it can handle the rigors of the golf course.
Features and Functionality:
Garmin S60:
The S60 has been my go-to device for accurate yardages to hazards, greens, and fairways. It provides detailed course maps, shot tracking, and club recommendations based on my performance. It’s been a game-changer in helping me make informed decisions on the course.
Garmin S70:
The S70 takes things up a notch with improved graphics, faster data processing, and more advanced stat tracking. The “Virtual Caddie” feature impressed me, offering club suggestions based on my playing history and current conditions. Additionally, the S70 includes more than 41,000 preloaded courses worldwide, which is a significant upgrade from the S60.
Battery Life and Connectivity:
Garmin S60:
One of the drawbacks of my S60 has been its relatively shorter battery life, especially when using it intensively during a round. While it still gets me through 2 rounds comfortably, I occasionally had to charge it between rounds on golf weekends.
Garmin S70:
The S70 comes with a more extended battery life, which was a pleasant surprise. It easily lasts two full rounds and more, making it suitable for golf trips without worrying about constant recharging. The Bluetooth connectivity also seemed more reliable, ensuring hassle-free synchronization with the Garmin Golf app.
Price Consideration:
Garmin S60:
At the time I purchased my Garmin S60, it offered excellent value for its features and performance. However, with the release of the S70, its price has become more competitive, making it an attractive option for golfers looking for a reliable GPS watch at a lower cost.
Garmin S70:
The S70, being the newer model with enhanced features, does come with a higher price tag. However, the added capabilities and improved performance may justify the investment for those who prioritize cutting-edge technology in their golf game.
Ongoing Experience:
Since transitioning to the Garmin S70, my golfing experiences have been marked by a newfound sense of confidence and precision. The larger display has made it easier to quickly assess course layouts, helping me plan my shots more effectively. The Virtual Caddie feature has been a game-changer, offering club recommendations that align with my playing style, which has helped me shave strokes off my handicap.
Furthermore, the extended battery life of the S70 has been a significant advantage during golf weekends and vacations. I no longer have to worry about recharging between rounds, allowing me to focus entirely on my game.
Additionally, I’ve found the Garmin Golf app to be more intuitive and user-friendly with the S70. It seamlessly syncs my rounds, stats, and performance data, providing valuable insights into my strengths and areas for improvement.
Final Verdict:
In conclusion, my transition from the Garmin S60 to the Garmin S70 has been a positive and enriching experience. While the S60 is still a fantastic golf GPS watch, the S70’s advanced features, larger display, and improved battery life have made it my top choice for enhancing my golf game.
Design and Build
| Feature | Garmin S70 | Garmin S60 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 47 x 47 x 14.7 mm | 46 x 46 x 14.5 mm |
| Weight | 72 grams | 52 grams |
| Display Size | 1.2 inches | 1.2 inches |
| Display Type | Sunlight-readable color touchscreen | Sunlight-readable color touchscreen |
| Material | Stainless Steel Bezel, Polymer Case | Stainless Steel Bezel, Polymer Case |
GPS and Mapping
| Feature | Garmin S70 | Garmin S60 |
|---|---|---|
| GPS Accuracy | High-sensitivity GPS | High-sensitivity GPS |
| Preloaded Courses | Yes (over 41,000) | Yes (over 41,000) |
| CourseView Maps | Yes | Yes |
| Green View | Yes | Yes |
| Hazard Information | Yes | Yes |
Performance Tracking
| Feature | Garmin S70 | Garmin S60 |
|---|---|---|
| Swing Analysis | Yes | Yes |
| Shot Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| AutoShot Round Analyzer | Yes | Yes |
| SwingTempo | Yes | Yes |
| TempoTraining | Yes | Yes |
Smart Features
| Feature | Garmin S70 | Garmin S60 |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphone Notifications | Yes | Yes |
| Activity Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Heart Rate Monitoring | Yes (with compatible sensor) | Yes (with compatible sensor) |
| Music Control | Yes | Yes |
| Garmin Pay | Yes | No |
Battery Life
| Feature | Garmin S70 | Garmin S60 |
|---|---|---|
| GPS Battery Life | Up to 20 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Smartwatch Mode | Up to 10 days | Up to 10 days |
| Battery Saver Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Quick Charge | Yes (up to 3 hours of play on 10-minute charge) | Yes (up to 3 hours of play on 10-minute charge) |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM | 5 ATM |
As someone deeply invested in golf, I find that staying up to date with the latest technology can be a key factor in staying competitive and enjoying the game to the fullest. The Garmin S70 has become an integral part of my golfing journey, providing the tools and insights I need to continually improve.
Ultimately, the Garmin S70 vs. Garmin S60 decision comes down to your personal preferences, priorities, and budget. Both are excellent choices, but for me, the S70 represents a significant step forward in enhancing my golfing experience and helping me achieve my best game on the course.
