Garmin vs SkyCaddie Comparison 

Let's take a look at Garmin vs SkyCaddie golf gps's. This will not be a detailed analysis of each feature but rather an overall comparison of the brands as broken down between a few different categories. See our golf gps comparisons for side by side looks at the specific models.

SkyCaddie Watch vs Garmin Approach S3

Mapping

Garmin

Garmin uses satellite imagery for the mapping of the courses included in their database. Their course maps include full hole layouts with trees in and along the fairway, hazards, and the actual shape of the green. Touch targeting allows the user to touch a point on the hole and see the distance to that point and the distance from that point to the hole.

SkyCaddie

SkyCaddie is the only company that walks each course in their database. For this reason they have been ranked #1 in accuracy for golf gps measuring devices. This precise measuring will give you confidence with the on screen graphics and distances when you are standing over your shot. Taking this a step further, with their IntelliGreen Pro feature many courses now include green contours, mounds, and false fronts. No other units are able to offer this much detail.

	Garmin	SkyCaddie
Mapping

Annual Fees

Garmin

For all their models, Garmin does not charge an annual fee. In addition, for the life of your unit you will be able to download updates and course additions also at no charge. This means a $0 cost of ownership going forward after the initial purchase.

SkyCaddie

Your unit will come pre-loaded with up to 30,000 courses that includes basic green information (distances for front, middle, and back of green). You will have 30 days to register and pick your annual membership plan. Your unit will not work beyond the 30 days without a membership plan. As a member you will have access to all the latest updates, course additions, and ClubSG.

SkyCaddie Member Plans

Scorecard/Stats

Garmin

With Garmin you will be able to keep score and enter stats for later analysis. The extent of scorekeeping and statistical analysis will vary depending on the model. Scoring can include up to 4 players with options that include Stroke Play, Stableford, Skins, and Match Play with adjustable handicaps. Stats can range from putts per round, greens & fairways hit, # of putts per hole, clubs hit with distances, and time to play. View your stats on the unit or download them to your computer to analyze.  As stated above, these options will vary between models. See our review of the various models for more detailed information.

SkyCaddie

SkyCaddie units have a built in digital scorecard and stat tracking. Scoring is for 1 player and stats include greens in regulation, fairways hit, and total putts. As with the Garmins, check the individual models for details. You will also be able to sync with ClubSG for the most extensive round analysis for your game. You will be able to store your data in your Personal Performance Locker, track key stats, find a PGA professional, learn about courses, and share your experiences with fellow golfers. 

	Garmin	SkyCaddie
Stats

Innovation

Garmin

While their line of handhelds are solid and packed with features, Garmin has excelled with their innovation in the golf gps watch. Watch features include touchscreen, digital scorecard, green view with actual shape of green, manual pin positioning, and more. We expect more innovation in future models.

SkyCaddie

Using their data obtained by walking each course, SkyCaddie is able to present the user with the most comprehensive and detailed course data. They continue to innovate from IntelliGreen Pro to WiFi.

Conclusion

There is no winner or loser here. Decide on what you are looking for in a golf gps and use our comparisons and charts to narrow down and decide the best unit for your game.  Both brands offer the golfer detailed data that will assist in lower scores and more enjoyment on the course.