What Are the Key Differences Between the Approach S10 and S20 GPS golf watches?
Long before Garmin broke into the highend multisport smartwatch arena such as with the Fenix 6, the company was mastering the technological capabilities of GPS in golf. Both the Garmin Approach S10 (see on Amazon) and S20 are very similar, yet there are also some key differences between each. Therefore, in order for you to make the best decision when deciding which of these watches to purchase, we are here to make the process a bit easier.
The key difference between the Garmin Approach S10 and the Garmin Approach S20 (see on Amazon) is the inclusion of Bluetooth smart technology with the S20 in addition to a range of enhanced features.
Garmin Approach S10 vs S20
| View On Amazon → |
| View On Amazon → |
The S10 model is still perfect for golfers seeking a simple and to the point analysis of performance tracking.
Both of these golf smartwatches score high marks in all the essential key points for rating a GPS golf watch. This article will explore everything that needs to be known about both products, with a specific emphasis on what makes the watches different from one another.
Read on to find out more and discover which watch is better suited to your needs.
Garmin Approach S10 Overview
When it comes to the Garmin Approach S10, the two thoughts that stand out to most golfers are simplicity and comfort. This model is one of the easiest to use of all GPS watches and makes for a lightweight accessory when maneuvering around the golf course.
The design pattern of the S10 is lightweight and clear, with easy-to-read data thanks to the ultra-high resolution screen. The data resolution displays numbers in large, translucent white coloring, which complements the easy interface controls of the watch.
There is nothing worse than being unable to read data while on a bright golf course, and the large font of the data is one of the most popular features of the S10.
Let’s take a look at some of the key features of the S10 in more detail:
- Map selection. The S10 comes with many convenient preloaded maps. The green view, as well as the front, middle, and back, are all conveniently preloaded. Hazards and doglegs are also easy to view and clear, which provide a means for beginners to have everything they need in full view to master a golf game.
- Battery capabilities. The rechargeable battery included here is another standout feature of the S10. You will be able to play for about 12 hours straight using the golf GPS mode. In the same way, you could extend energy from this battery for two or three weeks approximately. To do this you simply use the clock mode of this unit. This way, you will not be without your watch at any time during the game.
- High-resolution data display. The S10 features a high-resolution monochrome display. 128 x 128 pixels are combined with the appropriate screen size. In this case the screen size of 0.9 inches x 0.9 inches. The total weight of the unit is 36.28 grams. So, these simple features are more than enough to please a lot of golfers looking to use simple GPS watches.
Garmin Approach S20 Overview
If you sit the Approach S10 and the Approach S20 next to one another, you will notice that both watches look very similar to one another. Yet the watches are a bit different since the S10 is an upgrade of the popular S20 model.
The immediate standout feature of the S20 model is the inclusion of the Autoshot round analyzer. This round analyzer will measure and record every distance you achieve with stat tracking that can be viewed in the Garmin Connect App.
Additionally, the S20 is truswing compatible which allows you to analyze information about your swing that you can then use to improve upon later to achieve your best golf game.
Let’s take a look at some of the key features of the S20 in more detail:
- Activity tracking. Activity tracking features that measure calories burned, heart rate monitor statistics, distances covered, and overall fitness tracking are some of the newer features you can expect when purchasing the S20.
- Autoshot round analyzer. This feature is great to use when judging distances to hazards and other important information about your golf game to help you improve your overall performance.
- Durable battery life. The S10 provides a decent battery performance but the S20 improves upon this feature substantially. The S20 provides 15 hours of battery life whereas the S10 provided around 12 hours. These 15 hours are ideal if you intend to play golf over an entire summer day.
What Is the Difference Between the Garmin Approach S10 and S20?
To make things easier, it is easier to point out how both of these golf watches are more similar to one another. Both watches have different colors to choose from, are superior in providing data resolution for green view, and sunlight readable.
Both feature a large library of preloaded courses that cover a wide range of tracking features for the preloaded courses that best suit the game you are playing. Garmin Connect is easy to use with both watches and both watches are compatible with Garmin Connect functionality.
The S20 includes two useful features that are missing in the S10: activity tracking mode and auto shot round analyzer. The tracking mode is essential for golfers who wish to monitor fitness variables and stat tracking.
Fitness tracking is a great way to measure just how much exercise you are getting with a golf game, which can be hard to monitor without a display that keeps track of how hard you are working your body. Additionally, the auto shot round analyzer is perfect to use as a digital scorecard for measuring putts per round and other important dynamics of your golf game.
Apart from these two distinct features seen in the S20, both models are similar golf GPS watches.
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Which Is Better Garmin Approach S10 or S20?
We have found that many golfers prefer either watch; even though the S20 does have a few more features that are not found in the S10 model.
Garmin S10 vs Garmin S20 really comes down to additional features – and the S20 wins this argument easily.
It can be said that the S10 is merely a toned-down version of what was great about the S20. Since golf is a physical sport, many users find that the addition of performance tracking features that measure health statistics are a much needed new feature when it comes to golf smartwatches.
The S20 is also a bit easier to see due to it being more sunlight-readable than even the large font that is the trademark of the S10 model. With this said, the pixel density seen in the S10 model is certainly a stellar feature of this model and is in some ways a feature that many golfers feel is worth it every time.
But the Garmin Approach S20 (see on Amazon) is a much better option in terms of shot tracking distance measurement and analysis. The S20 allows you to view your entire game after it is over via Garmin Connect, therefore, you can analyze your performance techniques long after a game has ended, and build upon those techniques to improve your game each time.
In terms of cost, the S10 is slightly cheaper than the S20. It is not usually the case that a company decides to release a similar model with fewer features than the model that precedes it, yet the S10 is all about fewer features, simpler design, and a smaller price.
Our final verdict is that the S20 is still the better of the two models. If you do not care about performance tracking, health statistics, or round analysis, the S10 will likely suit your needs just fine and has a bit easier display in terms of reading under harsh sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the Garmin Approach s20?
The Garmin Approach S20 has pinpoint accuracy in terms of distance, time, and GPS mode analysis. With this said, there can be unforeseen circumstances that can cause inaccuracies on the course. These include weather, satellite interference, as well as upgrades or modifications to a course.
What does the Garmin Approach s20 do?
The Garmin Approach S20 has performance tracking capabilities that measure calories burned, heart rate monitoring statistics, distances covered, and overall fitness tracking are some of the newer features you can expect when purchasing the S20. Additionally, an autoshot analyzer is used to judge distances to hazards and other important information about your golf game to help you improve your overall performance.
Is Garmin Approach s20 touchscreen?
The Garmin Approach S20 does not feature touchscreen technology. Manual pin entry and buttons are used to operate the watch and move between screens that display all of the information the watch is capable of transmitting.
Does Garmin Approach s10 have Bluetooth?
No, the Garmin Approach S10 does not feature Bluetooth technology. The S10 model features a reduction of many of the features that were found in the Approach S20 model, which includes the use of Bluetooth technology.
How do you charge your Garmin Approach s10?
You can charge your S10 by using a USB cord that plugs into a compatible device, such as a smartphone or a computer. Additionally, you can use a wall charger granted that you have a compatible power source to connect the S10 into.
Final Thoughts
With all of these similarities and differences in mind, you may notice that both watches are far too similar to make a final choice. The best way to make the decision is to remember what each smartwatch is designed for.
If you are a professional golfer or are seeking a watch with advanced features, you can easily go for the Garmin Approach S20. If you are a bit less advanced in terms of golfing, the Approach S10 is a great choice.
Both watches have stellar design techniques that are sure to make your golf game easier and enjoyable. In terms of overall features and available options for your golf game, we recommend the Garmin Approach S20 (see on Amazon).
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