The difference between Approach S72 and S70 golf watches
Garmin’s Approach S72 adds swing metrics, green reading and health tracking to the S70’s golf features, while improving durability and battery life.
Approach S70 already provides PlaysLike Distance and virtual caddie across 43,000 preloaded courses, but Approach S72 introduces swing metrics such as hand speed, backswing length and wrist rotation viewable on the watch or in the Garmin Golf app. These metrics appear in real time during a round or range session, allowing golfers to analyze technique without leaving the course. The feature functions like instant film review, offering immediate feedback on each swing.
Heart rate monitoring on Approach S72 tracks fluctuations from tee time to follow-through, displaying current heart rate, per-hole averages and shot counts in each zone. Post-round, users can review a full-round heart rate graph and break it down by hole to assess how cardiovascular response may have influenced performance. The data is intended to help golfers identify pressure points and adjust pacing strategies.
Green reading on Approach S72 uses contour data from select courses when paired with a Garmin Golf membership. Golfers can mark the flag on the watch, then view the putt’s break direction and average slope percentage when returning to their ball. This feature aims to simplify aim-point decisions and reduce three-putt occurrences on undulating greens.
Approach S72 retains the AMOLED display and ceramic bezel of the S70 while adding a titanium bezel, sapphire lens and ComfortFit band for durability and comfort. Battery life reaches up to 20 hours in golf mode on the 47 mm model and up to 16 days in smartwatch mode. The 43 mm model offers 15 hours in golf mode and 10 days in smartwatch mode, alongside a built-in flashlight, speaker, microphone and voice control.