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Garmin S44 v Garmin S50 Golf Watches – What’s the difference?

By on September 4, 2025

Garmin S44 v Garmin S50

The Garmin S44 and Garmin S50 are top-tier golf GPS watches that enhance your game by providing precise data and advanced features. While they share many functionalities, key differences might influence your choice.

Key Differences

  • The S50 features a brighter AMOLED display, while the S44 has a standard colour touchscreen.
  • Battery life is longer on the S50 in GPS mode.
  • The S50 is lighter and comes with a ComfortFit Nylon strap, making it more comfortable for all-day wear.
  • Advanced health tracking on the S50, including stress monitoring.
  • Garmin Pay is only available on the S50, allowing for contactless payments.
  • Virtual Caddie and enhanced PlaysLike Distance make the S50 a better fit for players seeking more advanced course insights.

Which One Should You Choose?

  • If you want a solid, feature-rich golf watch at a lower price, the Garmin S44 is an excellent choice.
  • If you prefer a premium display, lighter design, enhanced health tracking, and Garmin Pay, the Garmin S50 is worth the upgrade.

Design and Display

Both watches feature a sleek design that is suitable for both on-course and everyday wear. The Garmin S44 has a 1.2-inch colour touchscreen display, offering clear visibility in various lighting conditions.

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The Garmin S50, however, boasts a larger 1.4-inch AMOLED display, providing more vibrant colours and sharper visuals. This enhanced display on the S50 can make it easier to scan data, especially under bright sunlight.

Garmin S44 v Garmin S50 Faces

Garmin S44 v Garmin S50 Faces – Not Much Difference to be seen

Golf Features

Both models are equipped with essential golf functionalities:

  • Preloaded Courses: Each watch comes with over 41,000 preloaded golf courses worldwide, ensuring you’re prepared no matter where you play.

  • AutoShot Game Tracking: This feature automatically detects and records your shots, allowing for post-game analysis.

  • Green View: Provides a detailed view of the green’s layout, enabling precise pin placements and better approach strategies.

Fitness and Health Tracking

The Garmin S44 offers basic fitness tracking features, including step count, calorie burn, and sleep monitoring. The Garmin S50 builds on these features by incorporating advanced health metrics, including heart rate monitoring, stress tracking, and Pulse Ox sensors. These additions make the S50 a golf companion and a comprehensive health and fitness device.

Battery Life

Battery longevity is crucial for extended play and daily use. The Garmin S44 offers up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 15 hours in GPS mode. The Garmin S50, with its more advanced display and features, offers up to 8 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 12 hours in GPS mode. While both are sufficient for multiple rounds, the S44 has a slight edge in battery endurance.

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Connectivity and Smart Features

Both watches support smart notifications, allowing you to receive calls, texts, and app alerts directly on your wrist. The S50 takes connectivity further with built-in Wi-Fi, facilitating faster data syncing and software updates without relying solely on a smartphone connection.

Durability and Water Resistance

Durability is a shared strength, as both watches offer water resistance of up to 50 meters. This makes them suitable for various weather conditions and even for swimming.

Price Point

The Garmin S44 is more affordable, making it an excellent choice for golfers seeking essential features without additional health metrics. The Garmin S50, with its advanced display and comprehensive health tracking capabilities, comes at a higher price, reflecting its expanded features.

Comparison Table

Garmin Approach S44 vs Garmin Approach S50

Feature Garmin Approach S44 Garmin Approach S50
Display 1.2-inch colour touchscreen 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen (brighter and sharper)
Battery Life Up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, 15 hours in GPS mode Up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, 20 hours in GPS mode
Design & Build Lightweight (42g) with Gorilla Glass 3 Ultra-lightweight (29g) with Gorilla Glass 3
Strap Type Silicone strap ComfortFit Nylon strap for improved comfort
Golf Features Preloaded with 42,000+ courses, PlaysLike Distance, Green View, and AutoShot tracking All S44 features + enhanced PlaysLike Distance and Virtual Caddie
Activity Tracking Step counter, sleep tracking, and basic health insights Advanced health tracking, including heart rate and stress monitoring
Garmin Pay Not available Included for contactless payments
Smartphone Compatibility Call, text, and app notifications Call, text, and app notifications with improved UI
Subscription Features Some premium features require a Garmin Golf Membership More advanced features are included, but some still require a membership
Water Resistance 5 ATM (suitable for rain and splashes) 5 ATM

Conclusion

Both the Garmin Approach S44 and S50 are exceptional golf watches that can significantly enhance your game. If you prioritise a larger, more vibrant display and comprehensive health-tracking features, the S50 is the ideal choice. Conversely, if you seek a reliable golf watch with essential features and longer battery life at a more accessible price point, the S44 is a fantastic option. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific needs and preferences on and off the course.

For a visual comparison and more insights, you might find the following video helpful:

Worth a look – Upgrade to the Garmin S70 Golf Watch

If the Garmin S44 or Garmin S50 watches don’t float your boat, then you may want to take a look at the Garmin S70 watch

The Garmin Approach S70 is Garmin’s flagship golf GPS watch, offering advanced features tailored for golf enthusiasts and those seeking a comprehensive smartwatch experience.

Design and Display

The Garmin S70 Golf Watch boasts a vibrant 1.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen display, ensuring clarity and brightness in various lighting conditions. Its sleek design makes it suitable for both on-course performance and everyday wear.

Golf-Specific Features

  • Extensive Course Coverage: With over 43,000 preloaded golf courses worldwide, the S70 ensures you’re prepared for any course you play.

  • Enhanced Tracking: Features like AutoShot game tracking and detailed green views provide precise data to refine your game.

Health and Fitness Integration

Beyond golf, the S70 offers comprehensive health monitoring, including heart rate tracking, stress monitoring, and advanced sleep analysis, making it a versatile companion for daily fitness routines.

Battery Life

The watch delivers up to 16 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode, ensuring it keeps up with extended play and daily activities.

Connectivity and Smart Features

Stay connected with smart notifications, music storage, and Garmin Pay, allowing for a seamless blend of functionality on and off the course.

Conclusion

The Garmin Approach S70 boosts the standard for golf GPS watches, combining advanced golfing features with comprehensive health tracking and innovative functionalities. Its premium design and robust feature set make it a worthy consideration for those seeking top-tier performance and versatility.

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For expert insights on the latest golf equipment and in-depth product reviews, visit our YouTube channel, where resident golf professional Mark Crossfield showcases the best in golf.

About James Langmead

The Golf Shop Online takes immense pride in its extensive selection of high-quality branded golf equipment, all available at exceptionally affordable prices. In addition to this, the shop offers valuable insights and guidance from PGA professional golfers. Their team is led by the esteemed resident professional, James Langmead. James previously earned the prestigious title of Callaway club fitter of the year and was a vital member of the Callaway CFS testing panel. At The Golf Shop Online, customers can expect not only top-notch products but also expert advice from seasoned professionals in the golfing industry. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking to refine your game, their knowledge and expertise are readily available to assist you in making informed choices for your golfing needs.

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