Device's Four-Year Ownership Proves Its Worth, Even More So Now with a $200 Discount on Amazon Prime Day
The Garmin Approach G80 GPS device, currently on sale for a discounted price of $299.99 at Amazon, is a must-have for golfers seeking a reliable and feature-rich companion on the green. This pocket-sized device combines the precision of a laser rangefinder with the convenience of GPS course mapping, making it an attractive choice for casual golfers and mid-handicappers.
The Garmin Approach G80 boasts over 41,000 preloaded courses worldwide, delivering standard yardages accurately. It quickly detects the course you're on and offers hole maps, although some users may find the maps a little underwhelming compared to more advanced models.
One of the standout features of the Garmin Approach G80 is its ability to track club head speed, ball speed, smash factor, swing tempo, and estimated distance. This data can be useful for warming up, testing new clubs, and hitting precise distances via the target practice mode. The device also features a Pinpointer, a compass that shows you the direction of the green when obstructed by trees or elevation.
The PlaysLike Distance feature, which accounts for elevation to give you a more accurate number on your approach shots, is another unique selling point. However, it should be noted that this feature needs to be switched off for competition play.
Compared to modern devices like the Garmin Approach Z80 and Voice Caddie VC4, the G80 offers a balance between accuracy and ease of use. While the Z80 adds advanced mapping features and wind data, and the VC4 excels in elevation and slope calculations, the G80 remains a strong competitor due to its hybrid design.
The Garmin Approach G80's battery life is adequate, offering around 15 hours, typical for laser GPS hybrid devices. For those seeking extended battery life, the Garmin G20 Solar offers up to 36 rounds with solar charging.
In terms of performance, the Garmin Approach G80 is solid, particularly for carry distance, especially with irons. However, it should be noted that its performance isn't as consistently accurate as more expensive devices on the market.
The Garmin Approach G80 GPS device works with the free Garmin Golf app, and serves as a reliable backup for GPS when the Garmin Approach S62 watch is not charged. For golfers looking to save on their next purchase, it's recommended to check the golf deals section on Amazon for more Prime event deals.
In conclusion, the Garmin Approach G80 GPS device offers a versatile and affordable solution for golfers seeking a reliable device that combines the precision of a laser rangefinder with the convenience of GPS course mapping. With its array of features, the Garmin Approach G80 stands out as a strong competitor in the golf GPS market.
The Garmin Approach G80, despite being a more affordable option, offers a competitive balance between accuracy and ease of use, making it a desirable smart-home device for golfers. Its ability to track various golf metrics and offer features like PlaysLike Distance make it a gadget worth considering in the realm of technology for golf enthusiasts.
