Precision meets innovation in the new Garmin Approach R50, an advanced launch monitor that’s turning heads in the golf tech world. This powerhouse steps up to challenge premium competitors with features that matter most for your game improvement.
We got our hands on Garmin’s newest device, and we had the opportunity to test it in different locations, both indoors and out.
Get ready to explore how the Approach R50 could transform your distance game, from its cutting-edge features to real-world performance on the course. You’ll discover if this latest addition to Garmin’s golf lineup deserves a spot in your bag ( I know it does in mine).
First Impressions
One of the most striking features of the Garmin Approach R50 is its vibrant, 10-inch color touchscreen display. The high-resolution screen is crisp, responsive and easily readable even in bright sunlight, ensuring that you can access your data and navigate the device’s features with ease.
Measuring 17 inches tall, 12 inches wide and 7 inches deep, it is significantly larger than most other portable launch monitors on the market.
Still, the R50 remains surprisingly portable, weighing in at just 9 pounds. The included robust, padded carrying case further enhances the device’s portability, featuring a shoulder strap for comfortable carrying and ample protection.
Package Contents
When you purchase a Garmin Approach R50, you’ll receive a complete package that includes everything you need to get started:
- The R50 launch monitor and simulator device
- A durable, protective carrying case with shoulder strap
- AC power adapter and cable
- 250 club face stickers (fiducials) for club data tracking
- Quick start guide and user manual
Setup and Ease of Use
Setting up the device is a breeze, thanks to its intuitive design and user-friendly interface. To get started, position the R50 parallel to the ball and align it using the on-screen guide. This process takes mere seconds.
Once the device is properly aligned, powering on the R50 is as simple as pressing a button. From there, you can immediately choose between various practice options, including a driving range, practice games or simulated courses. The responsive touchscreen allows you to navigate these options effortlessly, so you can focus more on your game and less time fiddling with settings.
Versatile Connectivity
The Approach R50 allows you to easily integrate it into your existing practice setup or create an immersive simulator experience. With a single HDMI cable, you can connect the R50 to a projector or television, instantly transforming your space into a virtual golf environment. You can enjoy the benefits of the R50’s advanced features on a larger screen without the hassle of complex wiring or additional hardware.
Golf Anywhere, Anytime
One of the key advantages of the Garmin Approach R50 is its portability, which enables you to practice and play golf virtually anywhere. Be it at the driving range, in your backyard or a practice area in your garage, the R50 adapts to your needs. The included carrying case makes it easy to transport, while its durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use in various settings.
The R50’s built-in battery provides up to 4 hours of continuous use, giving you ample time to work on your game or enjoy a full round of virtual golf.
Data and Accuracy
With 11 ball data points tracked, including crucial metrics such as ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, and spin axis, the R50 offers a detailed analysis of each shot.
The R50 also delivers 5 essential club data points, included in the device’s base package, with no additional fees or subscriptions required, making it an attractive value proposition for those seeking a complete analysis of their game.
Impressive Accuracy
To assess the accuracy of the Garmin Approach R50, a rigorous head-to-head comparison was conducted against the highly regarded Foresight GC3 launch monitor. Across all metrics, the R50 demonstrated remarkable precision, consistently delivering readings within 1-2 yards, degrees and 100 RPMs of the GC3’s measurements.
The R50’s impressive accuracy is achieved through three high-speed cameras, working together to capture a detailed analysis of each shot, ensuring that the data provided is both reliable and consistent.
One minor drawback is the size of the fiducials, or club stickers, required for the device to read club data accurately. These are significantly larger than those used by the Foresight GC3, which may be a cosmetic concern for some players who prefer a more discreet look on their clubfaces.
Display Features
The following are some interesting features worth noting:
Fully Customizable Data Views
With multiple viewing options available, you can tailor your experience to suit your preferences and focus on the metrics that matter most to your game.
The data visualization choices include:
- Interactive map views with shot tracers
- Detailed data tiles displaying key metrics
- Club path and face angle analyses
- Spin and dispersion charts
These views can be easily accessed and configured using the device’s intuitive touchscreen interface, allowing you to quickly switch between different perspectives as you practice or play.
You can choose to dedicate the entire 10-inch display to a single data view, providing a larger, more immersive experience. Alternatively, the screen can be split to show two different views simultaneously, enabling you to monitor multiple aspects of your performance at a glance.
Automatic Impact Video
The R50 captures close-up impact videos for every shot, providing valuable insights into your ball-striking consistency and technique. These videos are stored on the device, allowing easy review and comparison of swings via its touchscreen to identify areas for improvement.
With built-in WiFi, the R50 integrates seamlessly with the Garmin Golf app, enabling you to upload sessions, access advanced analytics and track progress over time. This helps identify trends, celebrate milestones and share results with friends or coaches.
Home Tee Hero Software
The R50 comes with the upgraded Home Tee Hero software, offering enhanced graphics, precise hole mapping and new putting capabilities that set it apart from the Approach R10.
The software features significantly improved graphics, with detailed terrain, vegetation and water features for a more lifelike experience. Enhanced hole mapping now accurately represents contours, elevations and hazards, providing both visual appeal and strategic accuracy for shot planning.
A major addition is the ability to read putts, incorporating factors like green speed and slope to deliver realistic feedback.
Impressive Course Selection
The Home Tee Hero software offers access to over 43,000 courses worldwide, including iconic layouts like Pebble Beach and St. Andrews, as well as hidden gems.
The software supports multiplayer rounds with up to four players, perfect for friendly competitions or small tournaments. For $99 per year, the subscription unlocks all courses, weekly online tournaments and ongoing updates. These tournaments, often mirroring PGA Tour stops, allow players to compete globally.
Third-Party Software Compatibility
In addition to the impressive Home Tee Hero software, the R50 also offers compatibility with several popular third-party platforms, including GSPro, E6 Connect and Awesome Golf.
GSPro Compatibility
GSPro is a highly respected software known for its exceptional realism and customization options. With the Approach R50, you can access an impressive library of over 200 meticulously rendered courses, including many iconic layouts worldwide.
GSPro’s advanced physics engine ensures that shots behave realistically, taking into account factors such as terrain, weather conditions and ball spin.
E6 Connect and Awesome Golf Integration
The Approach R50 also supports E6 Connect, another popular simulator software with a user-friendly interface, stunning graphics and a wide selection of courses and practice ranges. You can enjoy E6 Connect’s engaging gameplay modes, online play and comprehensive shot analysis features.
Awesome Golf, a newer entrant in the golf simulator software market, is known for its affordability and ease of use. It offers a growing selection of courses and practice facilities, making it an attractive option for those looking to expand their simulator experience without significant additional costs.
Subscription Requirements and Hands-On Testing
It is important to note that while the Garmin Approach R50 is compatible with these third-party software platforms, you will need to purchase separate subscriptions or licenses to access their features. The costs and subscription models for each platform vary, so you should carefully consider your budgets and preferences when choosing which software to go with.
As of this writing, hands-on testing of the Approach R50’s integration with third-party software is still pending. However, given Garmin’s track record of delivering seamless compatibility and reliable performance, we anticipate that the R50 will work smoothly with GSPro, E6 Connect and Awesome Golf.
Built-in Practice Ranges
The Garmin Approach R50 features diverse built-in practice ranges designed to help you improve various aspects of your game. These environments replicate real-world challenges, such as target greens over water and sand hazards, enabling you to build confidence and refine strategies for high-pressure situations. A dedicated driving range focuses on woods and drivers, while specialized short-game areas simulate diverse lies and obstacles to enhance chipping and pitching skills.
While the R50’s ranges are engaging and effective, they could benefit from greater variety and specialization. Features like dedicated practice for fairway bunker shots or links-style conditions, as well as advanced customization and skill-based drills, could elevate the experience further.
Approach R50 Vs. the Competition
The Garmin Approach R50 competes with top-tier launch monitors like the Foresight Sports GC3, Bushnell Launch Pro and SkyTrak+.
- Foresight GC3 (and Bushnell Launch Pro): Both devices offer highly accurate data, but the R50’s 10-inch touchscreen eliminates the need for additional hardware, giving it an edge in convenience. However, the GC3 and Launch Pro are more compact and have a sturdier build.
- SkyTrak+: The SkyTrak+ is more affordable and compact, but it lacks the R50’s built-in simulator software and advanced graphics. The R50 also offers more metrics, especially in club data.
- Uneekor EYE MINI: The EYE MINI excels with its advanced tracking technology and compact design, but it requires external software, whereas the R50 is self-contained.
The Garmin Approach R50 stands out for its all-in-one design, portability and easy setup, making it ideal for anyone seeking convenience and high performance. However, its premium price and larger size may lead some to consider alternatives like the SkyTrak+ or Uneekor EYE MINI for more compact or budget-friendly options.
Pros and Cons
After extensively testing the R50, we simply fell in love with the device. There are many convincing selling points, as well as a few things that could be improved. Here are lists of both:
Pros
- All-in-One Design: Combines a launch monitor and simulator in one portable device.
- Stunning Touchscreen Display: Features a 10-inch high-resolution color touchscreen for intuitive use and immersive visuals.
- Accurate Metrics: Provides 15+ ball and club data points, including spin rate and spin axis, for comprehensive feedback.
- Enhanced Simulator Software: Offers over 43,000 courses with improved graphics and mapping via Home Tee Hero software.
- Multiplayer and Online Tournaments: Allows up to four players and global competition for added engagement.
- Portability and Convenience: Easy setup, built-in battery and compact design allow use anywhere.
- No Extra Hardware Needed: Operates independently without requiring a connected device.
- Third-Party Compatibility: Supports popular simulator software like GSPro, E6 Connect and Awesome Golf.
Cons
- High Price: At $4,999, it is not cheap and may not suit casual golfers.
- Large Size: Bulkier than some competitors, which could limit portability for some users.
- Large Fiducials: Club stickers are larger than those used by competitors, potentially affecting club aesthetics.
Where to Buy?
You can purchase the R50 from reputable online retailers offering warranty coverage and excellent customer support. Our recommended sellers include:
- Amazon
- Top Shelf Golf (Financing available)
- Rain or Shine Golf (Financing available)
- PlayBetter (Financing available)
- Carl’s Place (Financing available)
- Shop Indoor Golf (Financing available)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions concerning Garmin’s newest offering. These will help you know more about this groundbreaking device.
Is the Garmin Approach R50 suitable for golfers of all skill levels?
Yes, the Approach R50 caters to golfers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Its user-friendly interface, comprehensive data tracking and engaging simulator features make it an excellent tool for players looking to improve their game and enjoy virtual rounds on world-class courses.
Can the R50 be used outdoors, or is it limited to indoor use?
The Garmin Approach R50 is designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Its portable design, built-in battery and easy setup process allow you to use the device at the driving range, in your backyard or even in remote outdoor locations, providing unmatched flexibility and convenience.
Does the Approach R50 require any additional devices or subscriptions to access its features?
The device comes with Garmin’s updated Home Tee Hero software, which provides access to over 43,000 courses and a range of practice and play features without the need for additional devices or subscriptions.
While the R50 does offer compatibility with third-party simulator software like GSPro and E6 Connect, these additional subscriptions are optional.
How does the accuracy of the Garmin Approach R50 compare to other launch monitors on the market?
The Approach R50 has demonstrated exceptional accuracy in head-to-head comparisons with industry-leading launch monitors like the Foresight Sports GC3. Across key metrics like ball speed, spin rate and launch angle, the R50 consistently delivers readings within 1-2 yards, degrees, or RPMs of its competitors, ensuring reliable and precise data.
Final Verdict – A Unique and Appealing All-in-One Package
We extensively tested the Garmin Approach R50 and confidently recommend it to serious golfers
The Garmin Approach R50 redefines golf technology with its all-in-one design, seamlessly blending a launch monitor and simulator into a portable, powerful device. Its stunning 10-inch touchscreen, exceptional data accuracy and ability to measure both ball and club metrics provide comprehensive feedback to improve performance and track progress.
As a simulator, the R50 shines with its enhanced Home Tee Hero software, featuring lifelike graphics, detailed course mapping and access to over 43,000 iconic courses. Multiplayer options and online tournaments add excitement, making it a truly engaging experience.
While the R50’s size and premium price may not suit everyone, the R50’s innovative design and outstanding performance set it apart from competitors. It is a cutting-edge, highly recommended device for golfers seeking versatility, precision and an exceptional golfing experience.
