Best Golf and Running Watches for 2025

Key Takeaways: Best Golf and Running Watches

Best Overall: Garmin Fenix 8 Solar ($1,199.99)

• Most comprehensive golf package: 43,000+ courses, slope compensation, full color hole views, virtual caddie, shot dispersion, green contours, hazard distances, shot/club tracking
• Complete running analytics: training readiness, running dynamics, stride metrics, power, race prediction, pacing strategies, training load/effect, VO2 max
• No significant missing features for either sport
• Exceptional battery life: up to 149 hours in GPS mode with solar charging
• Built-in speaker and microphone for calls and voice commands
• Built-in LED Flashlight
• Stores up to 2000 songs
• Premium price justified by complete feature set

Garmin Fenix 8 Solar

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Best for Runners Who Golf: Garmin Forerunner 965 ($599.99)

• Premium running suite: training readiness, running dynamics, grade-adjusted pace, hill score, race prediction, stride analysis, ground contact metrics, VO2 max
• Basic golf features: 43,000+ courses, digital scoring, hazard distances, shot/club tracking
• Missing key golf features: slope compensation, full color hole views, virtual caddie, green contours
• No built-in speaker/microphone for calls
• Stores up to 2000 songs
• 31 hours of GPS battery life

Best for Golfers Who Run: Garmin Approach S70 ($699.99)

• Elite golf features: slope compensation, full vector maps, virtual caddie, shot dispersion, green contours, touch targeting, 43,000+ courses
• Basic running features: GPS distance/pace/time, cadence, workouts, VO2 max, training load/status
• Missing advanced running features: running dynamics, stride metrics, race prediction, training readiness
• No speaker/microphone for calls
• 16-day battery life in smartwatch mode

Best Value: Garmin Venu 3S ($399.99)

• Solid golf basics: 43,000+ courses, scoring, yardage to greens/hazards/layups, shot tracking
• Good running features: GPS metrics, running dynamics, ground contact data, cadence, VO2 max, ECG app
• Missing premium golf features: slope compensation, color hole views, virtual caddie
• Missing advanced running features: stride length, race prediction, training readiness
• Built-in speaker/microphone for calls
• Includes heart rate monitor
• Music Storage Capability: Stores 500 songs with 21-hour GPS battery life

Garmin Fenix 8 Solar

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Budget Pick: Garmin Instinct 2 ($299.99)

• Strong running features: GPS tracking, running dynamics, stride metrics, training readiness/status, race prediction
• Basic golf features: 43,000+ courses, scoring, hazard distances, shot tracking
• Missing premium features: slope compensation, color maps, virtual caddie
• No music storage or speaker/microphone
• Basic monochrome display
• Exceptional 28-day battery life
• Best durability-to-price ratio

Important Considerations:

• Premium golf features (green contours, virtual caddie) require additional subscriptions ($29.99-$99.99/year)
• Only premium models offer complete feature sets for both sports
• Battery life in GPS mode varies dramatically (12-149 hours)
• Music storage ranges from none to 4000 songs
• Speaker/microphone availability varies by model
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 requires iPhone, Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro needs Android
• Consider your primary sport – most watches excel in one over the other
• Higher price generally means fewer compromises in features
• All models include basic GPS tracking and golf course mapping
• AMOLED displays offer better visibility but reduce battery life

Comparison Chart

Golf GPS Watch with Fitness Tracking	Features and Specifications
Garmin Venu 3S with Heart Rate Monitor Learn More	• Built-in speaker and microphone for calls • AMOLED Touchscreen • Wrist-Based Heart Rate Monitor • 500 song music storage; Plays music from Spotify playlists without smartphone • Running dynamics including cadence and ground contact time • Running power • Customized running workouts • ECG app • 40,000+ Preloaded golf course maps • Distances to front, middle and back of the green • Hazard distances • Touch-targeting for distance to any target • Touchscreen • Move bar inactivity alert, calories burned, distance traveled, sleep monito, step counter • Smartphone Notifications • Automatic or manual shot distance calculator • Shot Tracking and Club tracking • View shot locations and distances on overhead course map on Garmin Connect website • Digital Scorecard and Stat tracking (strokes, putts per round, greens and fairways hit) Missing Features • No Race Time Predictions • No pacing strategies • No training readiness/load • No stride length • No blind shot assistance • No slope adjusted distances • No Virtual Caddie
Garmin Instinct 2 with Heart Rate Monitor Learn More	• Wrist-Based Heart Rate Monitor • Create workouts from1,600 exercises • 40,000+ Preloaded golf course maps • Touchscreen • Color course maps with overhead views • Distances to front, middle, and back of the green • Hazard distances • Touch-targeting for distance to any target • Shot and Club tracking • Step counter and sleep monitor • Apps for Running, Biking, Swimming • Smartphone Notifications • Digital Scorecard and Stat tracking Missing Features • No touchscreen • No speaker or microphone • No Music Storage • No Animated workout routines • No ECG app • No slope adjusted distances • Cannot view green's true shape and layout • No blind shot assistance • Cannot save locations of any obstacles or objects not seen on the course maps • No Virtual Caddie with club recommendations • No cellular capability
Garmin Vivoactive 5 with Heart Rate Monitor and Music Storage Learn More	• Wrist-Based Heart Rate Monitor • 2000 song music storage; Plays music from Spotify playlists without smartphone • Create workouts from1,600 exercises • 40,000+ Preloaded golf course maps • Touchscreen • Color course maps with overhead views • Distances to front, middle, and back of the green • Hazard distances • Touch-targeting for distance to any target • Shot and Club tracking • Step counter and sleep monitor • Apps for Running, Biking, Swimming • Smartphone Notifications • Digital Scorecard and Stat tracking Missing Features • No speaker or microphone • Listen to Music with Bluetooth headphones • No Animated workout routines • No ECG app • No slope adjusted distances • Cannot view green's true shape and layout • No blind shot assistance • Cannot save locations of any obstacles or objects not seen on the course maps • No Virtual Caddie with club recommendations • No cellular capability
Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Learn More	• Includes speaker and microphone for Phone Calls and Music Playback • Cellular capability • 4000 song music storage • Takes an electrocardiogram of your heart • Wrist-Based Heart Rate Monitor • On-device Siri • Double tap gesture control • Crash detection • 40,000+ Preloaded golf course maps • Touchscreen • Distances to front, middle, and back of the green • Hazard distances • Shot and Club tracking • Step counter and sleep monitor • Tracks metrics for Running, Biking, Swimming • Smartphone Notifications • Digital Scorecard and Basic Stat tracking The following golf features require a paid app: • Slope adjusted distances • Virtual Caddie with Club Recommendations • Zoomable course maps • Swing Training • Blind Shot Compass • Strokes Gained Analysis
Garmin Vivoactive 3 with Heart Rate Monitor Learn More	• Cheapest golf gps watch with heart rate monitor • Touchscreen • Distances to front, middle and back of the green • Hazard distances • Move bar inactivity alert, calories burned, distance traveled, sleep monito, step counter • App for Running • Smartphone Notifications • Vibration feature for Smartphone Notifications and alarm • Automatic or manual shot distance calculator • Shot Tracking and Club tracking • View shot locations and distances on overhead course map on Garmin Connect website (AutoShot round analyzer) • Digital Scorecard and Stat tracking (strokes, putts per round, greens and fairways hit) Missing Features • No speaker or microphone • Cannot play Spotify playlists without smartphone • No Preloaded course maps (must download the relevant course maps to your watch) • No color course maps • No touch-targeting • No advanced swing training features • Not compatible with the TruSwing golf swing sensor • No slope adjusted distances • Cannot save locations of obstacles or objects not seen on the course maps • No Virtual Caddie with club recommendations
Garmin S70 with Slope, Virtual Caddie, Heart Rate Monitor, and Music Storage Learn More	• Wrist-Based Heart Rate Monitor with heart rate variability and VO2 max readings • 2000 song music storage; Plays music from Spotify playlists without smartphone • Virtual Caddie with club recommendations • Slope adjusted distances • Animated workout routines • Sleep score and insights like the Apple Watch 9 • 40,000+ Preloaded golf course maps • Color course maps • Distances to front, middle and back of the green • Hazard distances • Touch-targeting for distance to any target • Save locations of obstacles or objects not seen on the course maps • Touchscreen • Move bar inactivity alert, calories burned, distance traveled, sleep monito, step counter • Apps for Running, Biking, Swimming • Smartphone Notifications • Shot Tracking and Club tracking • View shot locations and distances on overhead course map on Garmin Connect website • Digital Scorecard and Stat tracking (strokes, putts per round, greens and fairways hit) Missing Features • No speaker or microphone • Listen to Music with Bluetooth headphones • No ECG app • No cellular capability
Garmin S62 with Slope, Virtual Caddie, Heart Rate Monitor Learn More	• Wrist-Based Heart Rate Monitor • Virtual Caddie with club recommendations • Slope adjusted distances • 40,000+ Preloaded golf course maps • Distances to front, middle and back of the green • Hazard distances • Move bar inactivity alert, calories burned, distance traveled, sleep monito, step counter • Color touchscreen • touch targeting • Save locations of obstacles or objects not seen on the course maps • Apps for Running and cycling • Smartphone Notifications • Automatic or manual shot distance calculator • Shot and Club tracking • View shot locations and distances on overhead course map on Garmin Connect website • Digital Scorecard and Stat tracking Missing Features • No speaker or microphone • Cannot play Spotify playlists without smartphone • No ECG app • No advanced swing training features • No cellular capability

Best Golf and Running Watches of 2025: The Ultimate Guide for Dual Sport Enthusiasts

Today's athletes often pursue multiple sports, making versatile fitness watches increasingly valuable. For golf and running enthusiasts, having a watch that excels at tracking both sports can enhance performance and enjoyment while saving money compared to buying separate devices.

The intersection of golf and running presents unique challenges for sports watches. While running demands consistent GPS tracking and performance metrics, golf requires accurate course mapping and precise distance measurements. This guide examines watches that excel in both domains.

Why Choose a Watch for Both Golf and Running

Combining golf and running capabilities in one device offers several advantages:

• Cost efficiency compared to purchasing separate devices
• Simplified device management and charging
• Consistent health and fitness tracking across activities
• Streamlined data analysis in one ecosystem

How We Selected These Watches

Our selection criteria focused on:

• GPS accuracy for both sports
• Course mapping capabilities
• Running metrics quality
• Battery life during GPS usage
• Overall build quality and durability
• Price-to-feature ratio
• User interface intuitiveness

Garmin Instinct 2

The Garmin Instinct 2 has a suggested retail price of $299.99 and it is durable and has many great running features but it is missing many advanced golf features as well as a touchscreen and many other critical features. For an extra $100, you can get solar charging capability.

Best Golf Watches for Ladies: Top Picks for Style & PerformanceRead more

Missing Golf Features:

• No slope compensation
• No full vector course maps
• No touch targeting
• No virtual caddie
• No shot dispersion charts

Missing Other:

• No music storage
• No speaker/microphone
• No touchscreen
• Basic monochrome display

Golf Features

Running Features

Display Specifications

Battery Life

Music and Connectivity

Target User Analysis

Unique Selling Points

The Garmin Instinct 2 is clearly positioned as a rugged, running-focused watch that includes basic golf features as a secondary consideration. It excels in durability and battery life while providing comprehensive running metrics, making it an excellent choice for serious runners who occasionally play golf but don't need advanced golf features.

Garmin Venu 3S

The Garmin Venu 3S has a suggested retail price of $399.99 and it has a built-in speaker and microphone for phone calls and music storage but it is missing a lot of the more advanced golf and running features.

Missing Golf Features:

• No slope compensation
• No full vector course maps
• No touch targeting
• No virtual caddie
• No shot dispersion charts

Missing Running Features:

• No stride length analysis
• No race predictor
• No virtual training partner
• No training readiness
• No training status/load/effect metrics

Golf Features

Running Features

Display Specifications

Battery Life

Music and Connectivity

Target User Analysis

Unique Selling Points

Final Verdict: The Garmin Venu 3S excels as a lifestyle sports watch that bridges the gap between smart features and athletic functionality. It's perfect for users who want a stylish device that can handle both golf and running while maintaining a fashionable appearance. The compact size and bright display make it an excellent daily wear option.

Garmin Vivoactive 5

The Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a suggested retail price of $299.99 and it comes with music storage but is missing many advanced golf and running features as well as a built-in speaker and microphone.

Missing Golf Features:

• No slope compensation
• No full vector course maps
• No touch targeting
• No virtual caddie
• No shot dispersion charts

Missing Running Features:

• No running dynamics
• No vertical oscillation/ratio
• No ground contact time metrics
• No running power
• No stride length analysis
• No race predictor
• No virtual training partner
• No training readiness/status/load/effect
• No ECG app

Golf Features

Running Features

Display Specifications

Battery Life

Music and Connectivity

Target User Analysis

Unique Selling Points

The Garmin Vivoactive 5 positions itself as a versatile lifestyle smartwatch with basic sports tracking capabilities. It's ideal for casual athletes who want a good-looking device that can handle basic golf and running tracking while offering modern smartwatch features. The AMOLED display and music storage make it attractive for daily wear, though serious athletes might find the tracking capabilities limited. It's particularly well-suited for beginners or those who prioritize general fitness over specialized sports tracking.

Garmin Fenix 8 Solar

The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar has a hefty price tag of $1,199.99 because it has every significant golf and running feature as well as solar charging capability, music storage, and a speaker and microphone for calls. It has the most complete feature set among all watches analyzed.

Golf Features

*Requires Garmin Golf premium membership ($99.99/year)

Running Features

Display Specifications

Battery Life

Music and Connectivity

Unique Features

Target User Analysis

Unique Selling Points

Who should buy: The Fenix 8 Solar is ideal for serious athletes who want the absolute best in both golf and running features. Its premium price point is justified by its comprehensive feature set and exceptional build quality.

Final Verdict: The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar represents the pinnacle of multisport watches, offering unmatched versatility for both golf and running enthusiasts. Its exceptional battery life, premium construction, and comprehensive feature set make it the ideal choice for serious athletes who demand the best in both sports. While the price point is high, the investment is justified for those who need professional-grade features in a single device.

Garmin Forerunner 965

The Garmin Forerunner 965 has a suggested retail price of $599.99 and it has all of the running features that you would want but is is missing the following golf and other important features:

Missing Golf Features:

• No slope compensation technology
• No full vector course maps (color hole views)
• No touch targeting
• No virtual caddie
• No shot dispersion chart
• No green contours

Missing Other:

• No built-in speaker/microphone for calls
• No ECG app

Golf Features

Running Features

Display Specifications

Battery Life

Music and Connectivity

Target User Analysis

Unique Selling Points

Final Verdict: The Garmin Forerunner 965 is the ultimate runner's watch that happens to play golf. Its comprehensive running features and training tools make it perfect for serious runners who want the option to track occasional golf rounds. The price-to-feature ratio makes it an excellent value for performance-focused athletes.

Apple Watch Ultra 2

• Requires third-party apps for advanced golf features
• No native slope compensation
• No built-in virtual caddie
• Limited native golf analytics

Missing Other:

• Shorter battery life compared to competitors
• iOS only compatibility
• Required cellular plan for full features

Golf Features

*Requires third-party golf apps like Golfshot, 18Birdies, or TheGrint

Running Features

Display Specifications

Battery Life

Music and Connectivity

Target User Analysis

Unique Selling Points

Final Verdict: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the perfect choice for iOS users who want a premium sports watch with excellent smart features. While it requires third-party apps for advanced golf features, its versatility and ecosystem integration make it an outstanding choice for tech-savvy athletes who value connectivity and style.

Garmin Approach S70

The Garmin Approach S70 has a suggested retail price of $699.99 and it is recognized as the best dedicated golf watch because it has all of the best golf features available including a virtual caddie and slope adjusted distances. However, it is missing the following running features and other important features:

Missing Running Features:

• No running dynamics
• No vertical oscillation/ratio metrics
• No ground contact time analysis
• No stride length data
• No race prediction
• No hill score

Other Missing Features:

• No speaker/microphone for calls
• No ECG app
• Limited advanced training metrics

Golf Features

*Requires Garmin Golf app premium membership ($99.99/year)

Running Features

Display Specifications

Battery Life

Music and Connectivity

Target User Analysis

Unique Selling Points

Final Verdict: The Garmin Approach S70 stands out as a premium golf watch that doesn't compromise on other fitness features. It's ideal for serious golfers who want the best possible course experience while maintaining the ability to track runs and other activities. While the price is high, it's justified for golfers who demand professional-grade features and analytics.

Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Golf Edition

The Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Golf Edition has a suggested retail price of $299.99 for the 40mm case size, $399 for the 44mm case size, and $499.99 for the 45mm case size. The built-in golf and running features are very basic. If you want access to the advanced golf features, you will have to pay for a subscription to a third party golf app.

Missing Golf Features:

• Premium features require Golf Pad subscription
• Limited native golf analytics
• Basic shot tracking

Missing Running Features:

• Limited advanced running metrics
• Basic training analysis

Missing Other:

• Android only compatibility
• Battery life specifications unclear in documentation

Golf Features

*Requires Golf Pad Premium subscription ($29.99/year)

Running Features

Display Specifications

Battery Life

Music and Connectivity

Target User Analysis

Unique Selling Points

Final Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Golf Edition offers an excellent balance of golf features and fitness tracking for Android users. While some advanced features require third-party subscriptions, its strong smart features and health monitoring make it a compelling choice for tech-savvy golfers who want a versatile device.

Garmin Approach S62

The Garmin Approach S62 has a suggested retail price of $499.99. It has the most advanced golf features including a virtual caddie and slope compensation but it only has basic built-in running features and it has no music storage.

Missing Running Features:

• Very limited running capabilities
• Only basic GPS distance/time/pace
• No advanced running metrics
• No training analysis features

Missing Other:

• No music storage
• No speaker/microphone
• Limited smartwatch features

Golf Features

*Requires Garmin Golf premium membership ($99.99/year)

Running Features

Display Specifications

Battery Life

Music and Connectivity

Target User Analysis

Unique Selling Points

Final Verdict: The Garmin Approach S62 is a dedicated golf watch that excels in its primary function while offering basic fitness tracking. It's perfect for serious golfers who prioritize on-course features over general fitness tracking. While its running features are basic, its golf capabilities rival the best in the industry, making it an excellent choice for the golf-first athlete who occasionally runs.

Comparative Analysis

Premium Golf Features Comparison

*With premium third-party apps

Premium Running Features Comparison

Battery Life Comparison

Premium Options Comparison ($700+)

High-End Features Analysis

• Garmin Fenix 8 Solar ($1,199.99) – Offers complete golf and running analytics, solar charging, military durability
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 ($799-899) – Premium app ecosystem, cellular capability, emergency features
• Garmin Approach S70 ($699.99) – Professional golf features, virtual caddie, decent fitness tracking

These premium watches offer comprehensive features like:

• Advanced mapping and navigation: Provides detailed course layouts, topographical maps, and turn-by-turn directions for both golf and running. Essential for serious athletes who need precise location data and course information.
• Professional-grade analytics: Offers comprehensive metrics like strokes gained in golf and advanced running dynamics. Enables detailed performance analysis and improvement tracking.
• Premium build materials: Uses materials like titanium and sapphire glass for enhanced durability and scratch resistance. These materials ensure longevity and reliability in demanding conditions.
• Multi-band GPS: Delivers superior positioning accuracy through multiple satellite frequencies. Critical for precise distance measurements and tracking in challenging environments.
• Advanced training metrics: Provides detailed insights like training load, recovery time, and performance predictions. Helps optimize training and prevent overexertion.

Price-to-Feature Ratio Analysis:

1. Garmin Fenix 8 Solar: Despite the highest price point, offers the most comprehensive feature set for both sports. The solar charging capability and premium build quality justify the investment for serious athletes.
2. Apple Watch Ultra 2: Combines excellent hardware with unmatched app ecosystem value. The seamless iOS integration and cellular capabilities make it worth the premium for Apple users.
3. Garmin Approach S70: Provides the most advanced golf features with adequate fitness tracking. The specialized golf focus and professional features justify the price for serious golfers.

Battery Life Comparison Explanations:

Premium models excel in battery performance:

• Fenix 8 Solar: Up to 30 days / 95 GPS hours – Leading battery performance enhanced by solar charging capability, making it ideal for multi-day adventures and tournaments. The extended GPS battery life ensures uninterrupted tracking during longest rounds and ultramarathons.
• Approach S70: Up to 16 days / 20 GPS hours – Offers balanced battery life suitable for multiple rounds of golf or training sessions. The efficient power management allows for extended use between charges.
• Apple Watch Ultra 2: Up to 36 hours / 12 GPS hours – While shorter battery life compared to Garmin models, provides sufficient daily use for most users. The fast charging capability helps offset the more frequent charging needs.

Mid-Range Options Comparison ($400-699)

Best Value Picks

1. Garmin Forerunner 965 ($599.99): Delivers premium running features at a lower price point than flagship models. The combination of advanced metrics and adequate golf features makes it an excellent value for runners who golf occasionally.

   • Professional running features
   • Adequate golf capabilities
   • Excellent battery life

2. Garmin Approach S62 ($499.99): Provides almost all premium golf features at a mid-range price point. The focus on golf-specific features while maintaining basic fitness tracking creates strong value for golf-first users.

   • Premium golf features
   • Basic fitness tracking
   • Strong battery performance

3. Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro ($499.99): Offers robust smart features and good sports tracking at a competitive price. The Android integration and third-party app support provide excellent versatility for the price.

   • Good smart features
   • Solid sports tracking
   • Android ecosystem integration

Feature Trade-offs

Mid-range watches typically sacrifice:

• Premium materials: Mid-range watches typically use fiber-reinforced polymer instead of titanium or premium metals. While still durable, these materials may not offer the same premium feel or scratch resistance.
• Advanced mapping: May lack detailed topographical maps or advanced course views. The basic mapping capabilities are sufficient for most users but may not satisfy advanced navigation needs.
• Multi-band GPS: Usually limited to standard GPS tracking. While accurate enough for most users, may not provide the same precision in challenging environments.
• Specialized sports features: May miss advanced analytics like ground effect time or green contour reading. These features, while nice to have, aren't essential for most recreational athletes.
• Battery performance: Typically offer 50-70% of premium model battery life. Still provides sufficient duration for most users' daily needs and regular activities.

Battery Performance

Mid-range battery capabilities:

• Forerunner 965: Up to 23 days / 31 GPS hours – 23-day battery provides extended use with regular GPS tracking. The balanced power management suits serious training while maintaining smart features.
• Approach S62: Up to 14 days / 20 GPS hours – 14-day life focuses on optimizing golf round coverage. Perfect for weekend golfers who charge weekly.
• Galaxy Watch5 Pro: Up to 80 hours / 20 GPS hours – 80-hour standard use balances smart features with activity tracking. The shorter but efficient battery life suits daily wear with regular charging.

Budget-Friendly Options ($300-399)

Essential Features at Lower Price Points

Basic models maintain core functionality:

• Garmin Instinct 2 ($299.99): Prioritizes core fitness tracking and durability over premium features. The focus on fundamentals makes it ideal for no-frills athletes who need reliability.

  • Strong running features
  • Basic golf tracking
  • Exceptional battery life

• Garmin Vivoactive 5 ($299.99): Balances basic sports tracking with modern smartwatch features. Perfect for casual athletes who want both activity tracking and daily wear convenience.

  • Balanced feature set
  • AMOLED display
  • Music storage

• Garmin Venu 3S ($399.99): Emphasizes smart features and health tracking in an attractive package. Suits lifestyle-focused users who want capable but basic sports tracking.

  • Smart features
  • Health tracking
  • Modern design

What You Give Up

Budget models typically lack:

• Advanced golf analytics: Limited to basic distance measurements and simple scoring. Missing premium features like green mapping and shot analysis.
• Premium materials: Uses standard plastics and glass instead of premium materials. Still durable but may show wear more quickly.
• Advanced training metrics: Basic tracking without detailed performance analysis. Sufficient for recreational athletes but may limit serious training.
• Multi-band GPS: Standard GPS accuracy may struggle in challenging conditions. Adequate for most users but less precise overall.
• Premium displays: Lower resolution or simpler display technologies. Still functional but less vibrant and detailed.
• Extended battery life: Typically 30-50% shorter than premium models. Requires more frequent charging but still lasts multiple days.

Best Budget Pick

Garmin Instinct 2 ($299.99) excels because:

• Best battery life in class – Battery life rivals premium models at a fraction of the cost. Practical for extended use without frequent charging.
• Strong running features< - Running features cover most serious runners' needs. Provides essential metrics without overwhelming complexity.
• Durable design – Durable design withstands rough use. Military-grade construction ensures longevity despite lower price.
• Basic golf tracking – Basic golf tracking meets casual players' needs. Offers fundamental distance and scoring features.

How to Choose the Best Golf and Running Watch for You

Assessing Your Priority Sport

Consider these key factors to determine which sports features matter most:

• If you play golf 3-4 times per week but only run occasionally, prioritize advanced golf features like slope compensation, full vector course maps, and virtual caddie found in premium models like the Garmin Approach S70 or Fenix 8 Solar. Conversely, if running is your primary sport with occasional golf rounds, focus on comprehensive running metrics like those in the Forerunner 965.

• Competitive runners should prioritize watches with advanced running dynamics, training load monitoring, and recovery metrics. The Forerunner 965 or Fenix 8 Solar offer the most comprehensive running features including race prediction and pacing strategies.

• Recreational athletes who enjoy both sports equally might prefer a balanced option like the Garmin Venu 3S or Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Golf Edition, which offer solid features for both activities without specializing too heavily in either.

Battery Life Requirements

Evaluate your usage patterns to find the right battery configuration:

• For golfers playing 18 holes (4-5 hours) with GPS active, most watches in our lineup provide sufficient battery life. However, for multi-round tournaments or long-distance runners, the Fenix 8 Solar's exceptional battery life of up to 149 hours with solar charging makes it a standout choice.

• Consider display type impact – AMOLED screens like those on the Venu 3S offer brilliant visibility but consume more power than MIP displays found on the Instinct 2, which offers up to 28 days in smartwatch mode.

• If you regularly use GPS tracking for both sports, watches with shorter battery life like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 (12 hours GPS mode) may require more frequent charging compared to the Fenix 8 Solar or Instinct 2.

Smart Features vs Sports Features

Choose based on your lifestyle and training needs:

• For those wanting comprehensive smartwatch capabilities with sports tracking, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro offer extensive third-party app support, mobile payments, and rich notification handling alongside their sports features.

• Music storage varies significantly – from none (Instinct 2, Approach S62) to 4000 songs (Apple Watch Ultra 2). The Fenix 8 Solar and Forerunner 965 offer 2000 songs, while others like the Venu 3S store 500 songs.

• Only certain models (Venu 3S, Fenix 8, Apple Watch Ultra 2, Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro) include built-in speakers and microphones for calls and voice commands – essential if you want smartwatch communication features.

Budget Considerations

Make the most of your investment:

• Entry-level options like the Garmin Vivoactive 5 ($299.99) provide basic features for both sports, while premium models like the Fenix 8 Solar ($1,199.99) offer comprehensive features but at a higher price point.

• Consider additional costs – some features like green contours data on Garmin devices require a Garmin Golf app premium membership ($99.99/year), while Samsung's advanced golf features need a Golf Pad subscription ($29.99/year).

• The Apple Watch Ultra 2 requires ongoing cellular plan costs if you opt for the GPS + Cellular version ($899), plus premium music service subscriptions for full functionality.

• Consider ecosystem compatibility – Samsung's Golf Edition works only with Android, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 requires an iPhone, potentially affecting your choice based on your existing devices.

Best Watches By Category

The best golf and running watch choice depends heavily on your primary activity, budget, and ecosystem preferences. For those seeking the absolute best in both sports, the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar stands out despite its premium price. Budget-conscious users have excellent options in the Garmin Instinct 2 for running focus or the Vivoactive 5 for general use.

For ecosystem-specific users, both the Apple Watch Ultra 2 (iOS) and Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro (Android) offer strong alternatives with their respective platforms, though they may require additional subscriptions for premium golf features.

The mid-range category is particularly competitive, with the Garmin Forerunner 965 offering exceptional value for runners who golf occasionally, while the Approach S62 serves golfers who run occasionally.

Investing in premium golf features through subscriptions can significantly enhance the golfing experience on any of these devices, while running capabilities are generally more consistent across models within their respective price tiers.

Best Overall Dual-Sport Watch

The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar remains the champion for its exceptional performance in both golf and running features, coupled with outstanding battery life and build quality. However, its high price point may not be for everyone.

Best Premium Golf-Focused Watches

1. Garmin Approach S70 – Best premium golf features with modern display
2. Garmin Approach S62 – Best value premium golf watch
3. Fenix 8 Solar – Best for golf plus comprehensive fitness features

Best Premium Running-Focused Watches

1. Garmin Forerunner 965 – Best dedicated running watch
2. Garmin Fenix 8 Solar – Best for running plus comprehensive features
3. Garmin Instinct 2 – Best value running watch

Best Value for Money

1. Garmin Instinct 2 ($299.99) – Best value for runners
2. Garmin Vivoactive 5 ($299.99) – Best value for casual athletes
3. Garmin Forerunner 965 ($599.99) – Best value for serious runners

Best for Smart Features

1. Apple Watch Ultra 2 – Best for iOS users
2. Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro – Best for Android users
3. Garmin Venu 3S – Best platform-agnostic smart features

Best by Budget Category

Premium Tier ($700+)

• Best Overall: Garmin Fenix 8 Solar
• Best iOS: Apple Watch Ultra 2
• Best Golf-Specific: Garmin Approach S70

Mid-Tier ($400-699)

• Best Overall: Garmin Forerunner 965
• Best Golf-Specific: Garmin Approach S62
• Best Android: Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro

Entry-Tier ($300-399)

• Best Overall: Garmin Instinct 2
• Best Smart Features: Garmin Venu 3S
• Best Casual Use: Garmin Vivoactive 5

Final Recommendations

For Serious Golfers

• Premium Budget: Garmin Approach S70
• Mid Budget: Garmin Approach S62
• Limited Budget: Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro with Golf Pad subscription

For Serious Runners

• Premium Budget: Garmin Fenix 8 Solar or Forerunner 965
• Mid Budget: Garmin Forerunner 965
• Limited Budget: Garmin Instinct 2

For Equal Golf/Running Enthusiasts

• Premium Budget: Garmin Fenix 8 Solar
• Mid Budget: Garmin Forerunner 965
• Limited Budget: Garmin Venu 3S

By Ecosystem

• iOS Users: Apple Watch Ultra 2
• Android Users: Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro
• Platform Agnostic: Any Garmin model based on budget and needs

For Casual Athletes

• Premium Budget: Garmin Venu 3S
• Mid Budget: Garmin Vivoactive 5
• Limited Budget: Garmin Instinct 2