A Garmin golf watch is one of the best tools to improve your game—but it’s only as accurate as its latest update. Whether you’re using the Approach S10, S12, S42, S62, or S70, updating your Garmin golf watch ensures that you’re playing with the most current golf course maps, features, and firmware enhancements.
This step-by-step guide shows you how to keep your Garmin device updated using Garmin Express (desktop) and the Garmin Golf app (mobile).
🛠️ Why You Need to Update Your Garmin Golf Watch
- 📍 Access the latest GPS data and yardages
- ⛳ Download updated golf course layouts
- ⚙️ Improve device performance and battery life
- 🆕 Unlock new features and tools like AutoShot, slope adjustments, wind data, and Virtual Caddie
- 🚫 Fix bugs and sync errors
🖥️ Update Garmin Golf Watch with Garmin Express (Computer Method)
Perfect for users who prefer wired updates.
Instructions:
- Download and install Garmin Express from https://www.garmin.com/express
- Connect your watch to your PC/Mac using the official USB cable
- Launch Garmin Express and add your device
- Garmin will scan and display any available updates
- Click “Install All” and allow the process to complete
- Safely eject your watch when done
⏱️ Estimated Time: 5–10 minutes
🔌 Recommended for: Garmin Approach S10, S12, S20, S42, S62, S70, MARQ Golfer
📱 Update Garmin Golf Watch Using the Garmin Golf App (Wireless Method)
This method is faster and cable-free—great for newer models.
Instructions:
- Download the Garmin Golf app from the App Store or Google Play
- Enable Bluetooth on your Garmin golf watch
- Pair your watch with the app
- Once connected, the app will detect and sync updates automatically
- If a firmware or course update is available, the app will prompt you to install it
- Keep both devices close until the update finishes
📲 Supported Models: S12, S42, S62, S70
📋 Troubleshooting Common Garmin Golf Watch Update Issues
If your update fails or gets stuck:
- Make sure your watch is fully charged
- Try restarting your phone, watch, or computer
- Ensure the Garmin Express or Golf app is up to date
- Use a different USB port or cable if updating via PC
- Reinstall the Garmin Golf app if syncing fails
📌 List of Garmin Watches That Support Golf Updates
- Garmin Approach S10
- Garmin Approach S12
- Garmin Approach S20
- Garmin Approach S42
- Garmin Approach S62
- Garmin Approach S70
- Garmin MARQ Golfer
- Garmin Vivoactive Series (with golf support)
💡 Pro Tips
- Check for updates monthly to ensure new course changes are applied
- Turn on auto-update in the Garmin Golf app settings
- Sync before every major round to ensure course data is current
- Use Wi-Fi or a strong cellular signal during mobile updates
🏁 Final Thoughts
Keeping your Garmin golf watch updated guarantees better performance, accurate readings, and new feature access. Whether you’re using the trusted Garmin Express tool or the convenient Garmin Golf app, these updates are quick and crucial for golfers who want reliable information with every swing.
Don’t head to the course with outdated data—take a few minutes and keep your watch sharp and synced.