GolfBuddy BB5 GPS wristband review
4 Let’s start off by saying that this is unlike any other golf sportband/GPS watch hybrid that I have ever tried.
The GolfBuddy BB5 looks like something that Geordi La Forge would wear on Star Trek.
And that is why it’s a great product.
We need more innovative designs in golf gadgetry. GolfBuddy are certainly offering this with the BB5.
The big question is – is it a case of form over function?
Out-of-the-box impressions
Taking the watch out of the box, I was pleasantly surprised.
Like many GolfBuddy products, the watch comes well-presented and in a nice plush little box.
Straight off the bat I’m thinking this is premium product.
We can’t talk initial impressions without the accessories.
With the BB5, all the usual suspects are present, and a few extras that I did not expect.
You get all the usual charge cable options and charger cradle that is becoming the norm with smartwatches and GPS watches as of late.
The addition of a larger wristband will be a welcomed by those with a chunkier wrist.
The main body of the BB5 can be removed from your band altogether if you would rather keep it in your pocket that on your wrist.
I’m sure that GolfBuddy hadn’t intended for this to be a feature, but you’ve got the option, so it’s worth bearing in mind.
Looks
This is a good looking GPS band, the screen remains off until you touch a button to ‘wake’ it so you will only see a sliver of black screen and silver accents for the most part.
The option of different coloured bands will definitely appeal to those looking for something a little brighter.
The buttons are nice and unobtrusive so they do not distract from the fact that this is ˜band’ style watch.
The screen is nice and clear, and the LEDs do make the BB5 look a little sci-fi which does add to the cool factor.
Comfort
This is a watch first and foremost. So would I wear this all day? Probably.
I’m not a watch wearer, but the rubber wristband is comfortable once it’s fastened. I used the standard size band and found it comfortable for most of the day.
Many watches suffer from large dials and buttons/switches that dig into my wrist when moving. The slimline buttons on the BB5 really prevented any discomfort in this manner.
This became especially prevalent when actually on course, I could wear the watch and not be in discomfort throughout my complete swing.
Usage
So we get to the bulk of the watch, unlike many other GPS watches the n screen is only active when interacting with the watch (a battery saving addition I’m sure).
The setup process when on course is very simple, a quick hold of the ˜OK’ button when on course and a few moments later as I’m stepping up to the tee (to completely top the ball) my BB5 has given me the yardage from the teebox with no issues whatsoever.
Whilst walking (read finding) to my ball between shots, a small green light flashed to show that the band had registered that I had moved. I liked this addition as it felt like it was constantly working.
The figures were accurate and although at first I didn’t know how to change measurements to the centre of the green, a few presses of the ˜OK’ button again and I’ve got my measurements. Easy.
During the round I was able to check shot distances and even how many steps I’d taken using the inbuilt pedometer.
Final thoughts
I really like the form factor of this GPS watch and an LED screen on a watch is always cool.
I haven’t quite had the chance to test the reported 20 days battery life.
Some will prefer a device that gives them more constant feedback, but that is not who this watch is targeted at, although it would be nice to be able to change the LED colour.
A great combination of style and function with a few minor compromises.
Features and benefits
¢ Distances to front/centre/back of the green
¢ Shot distance measurement
¢ Pedometer & time
¢ Auto course/hole recognition
¢ Water resistant
¢ Rechargeable battery
¢ 13 hours in golf mode
¢ 20 days in watch mode
SRP: £199.95
