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Garmin has produced the first ever solar-powered GPS, and it didn’t disappoint.
Garmin is one of the most trusted names in the world of golf technology. Their rangefinders and watches are some of the most used pieces of golf technology by plenty golfers everywhere. They have now announced the development of yet more innovation with the release of the Approach G20 Solar GPS.
In this review, we put the G20 Solar through its paces, assessing its performance on the course, including yardage accuracy, hazard mapping, and usability. Additionally, we will outline how compatible and useful this GPS really is compared to other golf tech on the market. I took it out on the golf course to find out, here’s what I thought…
Garmin Approach G20 Solar GPS Review: NCG Summary
NCG SUMMARY
The Garmin Approach G20 Solar is an excellent addition to the golf tech market, combining simplicity, accuracy, and rugged design into a compact device. Designed for players who want reliable performance without the need for complex setup, it delivers a premium experience that stands out, particularly for those who frequently play in varying weather conditions.
PROS
Simple and quick to set up
Crisp, clear screen, even in bright sunlight
Water-resistant
CONS
Doesn’t showcase an overview of the golf course, the only slight complaint I had
This is the first golf device to be solar-powered. Garmin say it has unlimited battery power when playing in the sunshine. Fingers crossed then there won’t be much need to manually charge up the GPS this summer.
The Garmin Approach G20 Solar GPS represented a number of firsts for me as it was my first time using a GPS. I have always been a golf laser type of guy, but I was excited to give this handheld offering from Garmin a go. Additionally, I’ve never actually used a piece of Garmin equipment before despite their illustrious reputation in the golf industry.
I have to say its minimal size is a big plus for easy and convenient storage. The built-in magnet is also allows it to be mounted to a golf cart or trolley, if you carry your bag then the included belt clip means it can be easily stored on yourself. For me, it was preferable to simply keep it in my golf bag.
NCG Verdict
A slight concern I did have going into testing was how readable the screen would be with the sun shining on it. Garmin’s sunlight-readable display technology meant this worry was quickly squashed. It was very easy to read the screen even in the usual bright spring sunlight here in the UK.
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The simplicity of which it takes to set it up and then use makes it extremely friendly to use for all golfers. It’s intuitive, ensuring even first-time GPS users, like me, can be ready to go within minutes. The GPS features are used to pinpoint your location so you can select which golf course you are playing. My golf club has a championship course and a nine hole offering, both are selectable and there is no confusion between the two.
The yardage information is abundant and accurate. It provides front, middle, and back readings with fantastic precision. Something that definitely inspires confidence when selecting clubs and put my mind at easy when stood over a shot.
Obviously with a laser golfers are able to scope various distances, i.e to the bunker or water hazard. Lucky, Garmin supply these distances on the GPS for a better understanding of the hole. Additionally, the Green View feature is a valuable tool. It gives players a visual representation of the green’s shape, helping fine-tune approach strategies, especially useful on unfamiliar layouts.
Another standout functionality is the G20 Solar’s ability to factor in weather conditions like wind. Combined with its waterproofing, this means the device performs reliably across all seasons and in any conditions the British weather can throw at you.
Like a lot of golfers, I often find when using a standard rangefinder I fail to scope the pin. Other objectives, such as trees behind or around the green, seem to be easy to latch onto which can be quite frustrating, especially when I am hitting my fifth shot in to a par four. There is no such problem with this handheld GPS and the distances are already displayed without any input needed.
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The only real downside is the absence of a full-course overview map. This really isn’t a hinderance for me but maybe is for golfers who prefer to plot their way around a course visually, this could be a minor frustration. However, for players who trust yardages and straightforward data, this is unlikely to be a major concern.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a reliable, accurate, and robust GPS device, the Garmin Approach G20 Solar is an outstanding choice. While it might not provide the full-course flyover visuals seen in some premium models, it covers the most critical features exceptionally well. Whether rain or shine, it’s a trusty companion for any round.
