The ifrothgolf review
The Garmin Approach G80 is a handheld golf GPS with a built-in radar launch monitor, aimed at golfers who want yardages on the course and a bit of swing data on the range from one pocket-sized gadget.
What's great
As a GPS it's properly good. The mapping is quick, accurate and lag-free, and the PlaysLike Distance feature that adjusts for uphill and downhill shots is genuinely handy. Battery life is the standout, around 15 hours in GPS mode, so it laughs off multiple rounds. On the launch monitor side, ball speed and club speed are measured directly and well-struck shots came within a few yards of a FlightScope Mevo Plus in expert testing, with driver and short-iron numbers especially solid. The transflective screen stays readable in bright sun, and setup takes under 30 seconds.
Worth knowing
Treat the launch monitor as a warm-up toy, not a coaching tool. It does not measure spin, launch angle or dispersion, and it tends to under-read carry on mid and long irons, with some owners seeing readings 10 to 15 yards short of reality. Mishits throw out junk numbers. You'll also want a net and a bit of space to use it properly, the cart mount is fiddly with no magnets, and green contour data sits behind a monthly membership.
The verdict
I rate it as a brilliant GPS that happens to throw in a decent range warm-up tool, not the other way round. If you want serious practice data, save up for a proper launch monitor, but if you mainly want on-course yardages with a fun bonus, it's a smart buy.
What reviewers say
Reviewers highlight the rare GPS-plus-launch-monitor combination and big clear screen, while noting the device is now several years old and the radar is indicative rather than lab-accurate.
