Garmin S40 Golf Watch vs Garmin S42
Are you looking for a golf watch that can help you up your game, but you’re torn between the Garmin S40 and the Garmin S42? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into these two golf watches, comparing their features, design, and overall performance to help you decide which one is right for you Garmin S40 vs Garmin S42. So, keep reading to find out more!
Garmin S40 Golf Watch: The Classic Choice
The Garmin S40 has been a popular choice among golfers for quite some time. It’s packed with features that can help you improve your golf game and make better decisions on the course. Let’s take a closer look at what the S40 has to offer.
Key Features
- Preloaded with 41,000+ golf courses
- Distances to front, middle, and back of the green
- Distances to hazards, doglegs, and layup points
- Shot distance measurement
- Digital scorecard and stat tracking
- AutoShot round analyzer
- Manual pin placement and custom target setting
- Club tracking with optional CT10 accessory
- Quick-release bands and touchscreen display
The S40 comes with a plethora of features that cater to golfers of all skill levels. Its preloaded courses, accurate distance measurements, and advanced stat tracking make it an invaluable tool on the course. The watch’s design is comfortable and user-friendly, with switchable straps and a responsive 1.2-inch color touchscreen display.
However, one downside is that the S40’s interface can be a bit complicated for first-time users. It may take some time to get used to the watch’s many features and settings.
Garmin S42: The New Kid on the Block
The Garmin S42 is the newest addition to Garmin’s golf watch lineup and is considered the successor to the S40. It retains many of the features that made the S40 popular while adding some enhancements to improve the overall user experience. Let’s see what the S42 brings to the table.
Key Features
- Preloaded with 42,000+ golf courses
- Distances to front, middle, and back of the green
- Distances to hazards, doglegs, and layup points
- Shot distance measurement
- Digital scorecard and stat tracking
- AutoShot round analyzer
- Manual pin placement and custom target setting
- Club tracking with optional CT10 accessory
- Quick-release bands and touchscreen display
- Improved battery life and screen resolution
At first glance, the S42 may seem quite similar to its predecessor. However, a few key improvements make it stand out. The most notable enhancement is the increased number of preloaded golf courses, now at 42,000+. This gives golfers an even wider selection of courses to choose from, ensuring they’ll always have access to accurate course information.
In addition, the S42 boasts improved battery life and screen resolution, making it an even more reliable companion on the golf course.
Garmin S40 vs S42: The Showdown
Now that we’ve gone over the key features of both the Garmin S40 and S42, let’s compare them head-to-head to see which one comes out on top.
Design and Comfort
Both the S40 and S42 sport a similar design, with quick-release bands and a 1.2-inch color touchscreen display. The watches are comfortable to wear, even for those who don’t typically enjoy wearing watches. However, the S42’s improved screen resolution gives it a slight edge in this category.
Features and Functionality
When it comes to features, both the S40 and S42 are quite similar, offering a wide range of tools to help golfers improve their game. Both watches provide accurate distances to various points on the course, as well as shot distance measurement, stat tracking, and club tracking with the optional CT10 accessory. Manual pin placement and custom target setting are also available on both models.
One area where the S42 has a slight advantage is in the number of preloaded golf courses. With 42,000+ courses compared to the S40’s 41,000+, the S42 ensures golfers have access to even more course information, which can be especially helpful for avid golfers who travel and play on different courses frequently.
Battery Life and Performance
The Garmin S42 has an improved battery life compared to its predecessor, lasting up to 15 hours in GPS mode. This means golfers can enjoy more time on the course without worrying about their watch dying midway through a round. The S40, on the other hand, can last up to 15 hours in GPS mode as well, but some users have reported slightly shorter battery life in real-world usage.
In terms of accuracy and overall performance, both watches are very similar. They both offer reliable distance measurements, with only minor discrepancies when compared to course markers. The AutoShot round analyzer and stat tracking features also perform consistently well on both models.
Price and Value
As the newer model, the Garmin S42 is generally priced slightly higher than the S40. However, considering the additional preloaded courses, improved battery life, and enhanced screen resolution, the S42 does offer added value for the extra cost.
For golfers who are content with the features and performance of the S40 and don’t necessarily need the additional courses or slight improvements offered by the S42, the S40 may still be a great choice, especially if it’s available at a lower price.
| Feature | Garmin S40 | Garmin S42 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 43 x 43 x 12 mm | 43.4 x 43.4 x 11.7 mm |
| Quick Release Bands | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Strap Material | Silicone | Silicone |
| Screen Size | 1.2 inch | 1.2 inch |
| Weight | 43 grams | 43.6 grams |
| Battery Life (GPS Mode) | 15 hours | 15 hours |
| Water Rating | 5 ATM | 5 ATM |
| Golf Courses | 41,000+ | 42,000+ |
| Preloaded | Yes | Yes |
| Distance to F/M/B | Yes | Yes |
| Distance to Hazards etc. | Yes | Yes |
| Shot Distance | Yes | Yes |
| Scorecard | Yes | Yes |
| Stat Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| AutoShot | Yes | Yes |
| Manual Pin Placement | Yes | Yes |
| Custom Target | Yes | Yes |
| Club Tracking | Requires CT10 | Requires CT10 |
Final Verdict: Garmin S40 vs Garmin S42
Ultimately, both the Garmin S40 and S42 are excellent golf watches that offer a wealth of features and solid performance. Choosing between the two largely depends on your personal preferences and budget.
If you’re looking for the latest model with a few extra bells and whistles, such as more preloaded courses, improved battery life, and better screen resolution, the Garmin S42 is a fantastic choice. However, if you’re more focused on getting a reliable golf watch with proven performance and don’t mind missing out on a few of the latest upgrades, the Garmin S40 is still a great option.
Either way, you’ll be investing in a high-quality golf watch that can help you up your game and make more informed decisions on the course. Our top choice is the Garmin S42 due to its upgrades on the S40 watch. Let me know in fhe comments below which one you end up choosing?
FAQ’s: Garmin S40 vs Garmin S42
What is the difference between Garmin S42 and S40?
The main differences between the Garmin S42 and S40 are the S42’s improved screen resolution, slightly larger preloaded golf course database, and marginally better battery life. The S42 also has a sleeker design and is the newer model. Performance-wise, both watches are very similar.
Is the Garmin S42 worth the money?
The Garmin S42 is worth the money if you’re looking for a golf watch with the latest features, improved screen resolution, and an extensive database of preloaded courses. The added cost compared to the S40 may be justified for golfers who want a more future-proof watch and don’t mind spending extra for the latest model.
Is the Garmin S42 better than the s12?
The Garmin S42 has more advanced features compared to the S12, such as a touchscreen, stat tracking, club tracking compatibility, and manual pin placement. However, the S12 is a more budget-friendly option for those who don’t need the extra features and prefer a simpler interface.
Is Garmin S40 worth it?
The Garmin S40 is worth it if you’re looking for a reliable, feature-rich golf watch with proven performance. Although it’s an older model compared to the S42, the S40 still offers a wealth of features that can help golfers improve their game and make better-informed decisions on the course.
Which is the best Garmin on the market?
The best Garmin on the market depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Garmin S62 is considered one of the top models, with advanced features like PlaysLike Distance, Virtual Caddie, and a larger display. However, the S42 and S40 are excellent options for golfers looking for more affordable yet feature-packed alternatives.
Does the Garmin S40 measure swing speed?
The Garmin S40 does not measure swing speed directly. However, it can be paired with the optional Garmin TruSwing accessory, which provides detailed swing metrics, including swing speed, club path, and tempo.
Which is better Garmin S42 or S62?
The Garmin S62 is a more advanced golf watch, offering additional features like PlaysLike Distance, Virtual Caddie, and a larger display. However, it’s also more expensive. The S42 is a more affordable option that still offers a wealth of features to help golfers improve their game. Choosing between the two depends on your budget and desired feature set.
What is the best Garmin for everyday use?
For everyday use, the Garmin Venu or Vivoactive series are excellent choices, as they offer a balance between fitness tracking, smartwatch features, and a stylish design suitable for daily wear.
What is the life expectancy of a Garmin GPS?
The life expectancy of a Garmin GPS varies depending on the specific model and usage. On average, a Garmin GPS device can last for several years, with some users reporting up to 5 years or more. Regular software updates, proper care, and battery maintenance can help extend the life of a Garmin GPS device.
Fun Golf Equipment Advice
At Fun Golf, we believe that there’s more to golf than just the equipment you use. That’s why we’ve created content that covers a range of topics related to the sport such as the key differences between the Garmin S40 vs S42 golf watches. Here are some of our other articles that we think you might find helpful:
- Golf Insurance: Golf can be an expensive sport, and accidents can happen. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to golf insurance, which can help protect you from unexpected costs. Check out our article on golf insurance to learn more.
- Cheap Golf Rangefinders: Rangefinders can be a valuable tool on the golf course, but they can also be expensive. We’ve researched and tested some of the best affordable rangefinders on the market, and put together a guide to help you find the right one for your needs. Check out our article on cheap golf rangefinders to learn more.
- Beginner Golf Balls: If you’re just starting out in golf, choosing the right balls can be confusing. We’ve reviewed some of the best golf balls for beginners, taking into account factors such as distance, spin, and feel. Check out our article on beginner golf balls to learn more.
- Best Golf Trolleys: Carrying your golf bag can be tiring, which is why many golfers opt for a trolley. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. We’ve researched and tested some of the best golf trolleys, and put together a guide to help you make an informed decision. Check out our article on best golf trolleys to learn more.
By exploring these topics, you can improve your overall golfing experience and make the most out of your time on the course. And as always, we at Fun Golf are committed to providing you with accurate and helpful information to help you enjoy the sport to its fullest.
