The Garmin Approach R50 is stirring up excitement in the golf world, and for good reason. Since releasing November 11th 2024, it’s been on my radar. It’s not just a launch monitor—it’s an all-in-one golf simulator and game-improvement tool. With a built-in 10-inch color touchscreen, over 43,000 preloaded golf courses, and cutting-edge performance tracking features, the R50 is poised to change how we practice, play, and improve our game.
After testing it out, here’s my take on what makes the Garmin Approach R50 a standout device—and where it might need a bit of tweaking.
First Impressions
When I first unboxed the R50, my initial reaction was, “Wow, this thing means business.” It’s larger than most portable monitors, measuring 16.5″ x 10.6″ x 7.5″ and weighing 9 pounds. The 10-inch color touchscreen is the showstopper here. It’s vibrant, responsive, and makes navigation a breeze.
The premium carrying case was a nice touch, though its size does make portability slightly more cumbersome compared to smaller models. Still, with that screen and a design built for durability, I knew I had something special in my hands.
Setup: As Easy As It Gets
Setting up the Garmin R50 is as simple as it gets.
- Place the device on the ground parallel to your target line.
- Turn it on.
- You’re ready to hit balls or start playing virtual rounds.
That’s it. No laptops, no extra screens—everything runs directly on the device. For anyone who’s ever wrestled with finicky launch monitors, this simplicity is a game-changer.
Want to use it with a projector for a full simulator experience? Just plug in an HDMI cable. It’s straightforward and seamless.
Performance: Ball and Club Metrics You Can Trust
The Garmin Approach R50 shines when it comes to performance tracking. With its three high-speed cameras, it measures more than 15 ball and club metrics, including:
- Ball speed
- Launch angle
- Spin rate and spin axis
- Club head speed
- Club path and face angle
- Smash factor
- Carry and total distance
The accuracy is spot-on, even compared to industry giants like the Foresight GC3 and SkyTrak+. Each shot feels like it’s being dissected by a coach who’s way too obsessed with data—in the best way possible.
The R50 even records impact videos, showing you exactly how the club strikes the ball. If you’re trying to fine-tune your swing, these videos are gold.
Simulation: Over 43,000 Courses Built In
Here’s where the R50 really separates itself: built-in simulation capabilities.
It comes preloaded with Home Tee Hero, giving you access to over 43,000 golf courses worldwide. From Augusta National to your local muni, you can play virtually anywhere.
Unlike other simulators, the R50 doesn’t require a laptop or external software to run simulations. Everything is built into the device, which is a first for golf tech.
The graphics are clean, though not quite as realistic as premium options like FSX Play or Trackman. But for casual play and practice, it’s more than enough.
Bonus Features:
- Multiplayer mode for up to four players.
- Customizable data displays, so you see exactly what you want.
- Compatible with third-party software like E6 Connect and GSPro for more advanced simulation.
The R50 works with Garmin’s Home Tee Hero simulator for just $9.99/month or $99/year. For more advanced simulations, it’s compatible with GSPro, Awesome Golf, and E6 Connect. These third-party apps unlock even more courses and features but require a PC for setup.
Training Features: A Coach in Your Pocket
The R50 isn’t just a simulator—it’s a complete training tool.
- Club stats tracking lets you see which clubs you hit best and where you need work.
- Shot dispersion charts give you a clear picture of your consistency.
- The built-in barometer adjusts carry distances based on your elevation, adding another layer of precision.
Whether you’re at the driving range or in your garage, this device gives you pro-level feedback.
Performance: Indoors, Outdoors, Anywhere
One of the R50’s biggest strengths is its versatility. You can use it indoors or outdoors, thanks to its IPX3 water-resistant rating and ability to work on natural grass, mats, or even in your backyard. And the 4-hour battery life means you won’t have to cut your session short.
The HDMI port also lets you connect it to a larger screen or projector, making it the centerpiece of a home golf studio.
Battery Life and Portability
With up to 4 hours of battery life, the R50 can handle extended practice sessions.
However, its size might make portability a challenge for some. It’s not a device you casually toss into your golf bag. That said, the included carrying case makes transporting it a lot easier.
For indoor setups or driving ranges, it’s perfect. For frequent travelers, the bulk might be a minor inconvenience.
Comparing the Garmin Approach R50 to Competitors
At $4,999, the R50 competes with the Foresight GC3, Uneekor Eye Mini, and SkyTrak+. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Garmin R50 | Foresight GC3 | SkyTrak+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $4,999 | $5,999 | $2,995 |
| Built-in Touchscreen | Yes | No | No |
| Ball + Club Metrics | 15+ | 15+ | 10+ |
| Simulator Built-In | Yes (Home Tee Hero) | No | No |
| Subscription Cost | $99/year (optional) | Additional for sim | $350/year |
The R50’s built-in touchscreen and simulator capabilities set it apart. Unlike the GC3 or SkyTrak+, you don’t need extra hardware to enjoy full simulation features.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy setup—no extra devices needed.
- Accurate ball and club metrics with high-speed cameras.
- Built-in 43,000-course simulator.
- Impact videos for immediate feedback.
- Portable design with carrying case included.
Cons
- Price—$4,999 is still a significant investment.
- Bulkier than some competitors.
- Battery life could be longer for all-day use.
Who Is the Garmin Approach R50 For?
If you’re a golfer who wants the best of both worlds—precision launch monitor data and immersive simulation—the R50 is for you. It’s ideal for serious players looking to improve and anyone building a home simulator setup without the hassle of extra hardware.
Is the Garmin Approach R50 Worth It?
The Garmin Approach R50 is more than just a launch monitor; it’s a complete golfing experience. From its intuitive touchscreen to its unmatched simulator capabilities, it’s a game-changer in the sub-$5,000 category.
Sure, the price tag might sting a bit, but if you’re looking for cutting-edge golf tech that simplifies your practice while enhancing your play, the R50 is worth every penny. For me, the built-in simulator alone makes it a winner.
Ready to elevate your game? The R50 might just be the upgrade your golf bag needs.
