Garmin has extended its portable golf range to include the Garmin Approach G80 GPS & Launch Monitor, making it a two in one model. GolfReviewsGuide reviews the latest release.

The G80 is a premium product and tracks much more than similar GPS products on the market, with statistics on swing speed, ball speed, smash factor and estimated distance all available to monitor.

There is plenty on offer with the G80 and Launch Monitor; a variety of simulated game and practice modes can help players improve their game on the course and at the driving range – and provide instant feedback.

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What Garmin says about the G80 GPS and Launch Monitor:

“Approach G80 is the first all-in-one premium GPS golf handheld with an integrated launch monitor, meaning you can easily track club head speed, ball speed, smash factor, swing tempo and estimated distance.

“Large 3.5-inch sunlight-readable touchscreen combines with a slim design and easy button access to get to radar.

“Your handheld comes preloaded with more than 41,000 full-colour CourseView maps of golf courses from around the world. Download updates for the course you play most often.

“The quick-access radar button makes it easy to learn more about your shot, including estimated carry, club head and ball speed, smash factor and tempo.”

Garmin G80 GPS & Launch Monitor Design

The G80 GPS is a two-in-one device, offering distance measuring capabilities as well as training aid feature thanks to the launch monitor.

On the course, a 3.5-inch, 282 x 470 pixel and a transflective colour touchscreen provides a clear image of hazards, fairways, landing areas and distances to the front back and middle of the green.

The integrated launch monitor accurately tracks clubhead speed (within five mph), ball speed (within two mph), smash factor, swing tempo and estimated distance (within 5 yards) on every shot.

The Pinpointer feature gives players a detailed view of the greens, which includes undulations and pin location to support players with their choice of shot.

Ready to use practice and game modes are available on the Approach G80. Choose from Warm-up mode, Tempo Training Mode, Target Practise and Virtual Round mode, which allows you to play through a simulation of over 40,000 courses worldwide.

The G80s internal rechargeable lithium-polymer battery lasts for 15 hours after a full charge. Digital scorecard functions makes tracking scores and analytics easy with stableford and stroke play available to choose.

Is the Garmin Approach G80 GPS and Launch Monitor good?

The G80 has every feature that a golfer could possibly want on the golf course. Accurate detail is available on every golfing aspect, which has been enhanced by Garmin’s introduction of the integrated Launch Monitor.

A big appeal of the G80 is the practice functions, meaning it is not just an item for on the course use. It can be used during practice rounds or driving range practice to gather feedback on your game.

The G80 may be costly compared to other GPS devices, but this is a premium product and with so much more use than during the 3-4 hours of a round.

READ: Review of the Garmin Approach S40 GPS
READ: Review of the Garmin Approach S10 GPS
READ: Review of the Garmin Approach G10 GPS

FAQs

What accessories are available with the Garmin Approach G80 GPS & Launch Monitor?

Portable chargers are available to purchase alongside the GPS. Individual belt and trolley clips are also available for an additional cost.

Is it available with the Garmin Golf app?

Yes, the G80 can be used with the Garmin Golf app to track scores and statistics for no extra cost.

How much does the Garmin G80 and Launch Monitor cost?

The product costs £450/$600 from most retailers.