Garmin Approach G20 Solar Handheld GPS
People have strong opinions on where they get their golf data, and there’s no shortage of options. Whether it’s a rangefinder, watch, an app… or even a handheld like the G20, Garmin has a premiere option. Garmin has consistently raised the bar when it comes to golf tech, and the new Garmin Approach G20 Solar does it again.
Out of the Box
As we’ve come to expect, Garmin has created an ecosystem so tight, it only takes seconds to fire up their devices. The Approach G20 Solar is no different. You connect it via Bluetooth to your phone, and to any other Garmin devices. In my case, I’ve got them all, so it effortlessly finds the incomparable G70 Watch and the handy Z30 Rangefinder. A lovely thing about Garmin is that each works wonderfully on its own, but when paired with other devices, it becomes even better.
Features
Three big things come to mind as standout features of the Garmin Approach G20 Solar handheld. One, it’s so easy to see! A big gripe I have had is that on-course accessories easily get washed out in sunny conditions. The Approach G20 uses big, bold, high contrast fonts. While we’re not getting full-color displays and diagrams of courses, that’s not entirely necessary here. It does take a minute to learn the symbols and markings here, but it’s really not that hard.
Second, it’s called “solar”, right?! The G20 has a unique solar receptor that will continuously charge the unit while you’re outside in clear sun. There’s a neat gauge on it where you can see the quality of the sunlight, how much you’re charging, and how much you’ve added since you started playing. This allows for near unlimited battery life for the unit. It’s clever and this works very, very well. I’ve had plenty of rounds where my gps was not charged (my fault!) and I had to go old school with walking off yardages.
Third, it’s so solid. The Approach G20 feels perfect in your hand. The buttons are comfortable, well sized, and responsive. The strong magnet stays securely on your belt clip as well as a cart. It does well on my push cart too. Losing a $299 accessory is bad news, but I’d doubt you’d walk away without this GPS! BUT, there is a “help find” option so you can backtrack on where you left it.
On-Course Performance
Sometimes I want that free feeling of going without the GPS watch. You can toss the Garmin Approach G20 Solar in your pocket or clip to you belt. At a mere 3.8oz, you can feel it in there, but it’s not going to weigh you down or feel it moving around when you swing or walk. It’s also a perfect partner if you’re a cart rider (though I’m walking 95% of the time) with its strong and secure magnet. You’re not going to lose it, and if you do, it’s your fault!
Simplicity is the key here. This is NOT the most feature rich of the Garmin line, but what it does is simple and fast. That’s important for me. I don’t like having to sift through menus while I’m out there. The Approach G20’s key data is no more than two to four clicks away. Distance to hazards, green data, wind data…it’s all there.
What I’m liking the most though, is pairing it with the Z30 Rangefinder. I don’t feel the need to use the rangefinder off the tee. I go straight for the handheld, but when we get to approach shots, hit the flag with the laser, then glance at the handheld. It immediately gets you the perfect flag and green distances. Quick, easy, hit your shot and go. Simple, accurate numbers make accessories like the G20 shine.
One small criticism is that you’re not going to get the fully accurate shot tracking like you’d get from other Garmin devices (unless you’ve added the CT10 sensors). You can track straight line distance, but that feature is a bit deeper in the menus.
Final Thoughts – Garmin Approach G20 Solar
The Garmin Approach G20 Solar is a no-fuss, high-performance GPS handheld that delivers exactly what most golfers need: clear, quick, and reliable yardage without the distractions of unnecessary features. Its solar charging is more than just a gimmick. It’s a practical, game-saving solution that keeps the device alive and well, even during marathon rounds. The build quality is excellent, and its integration with other Garmin devices like the Z30 and G70 watch makes it a seamless addition to the Garmin ecosystem. While it may not have the deep tracking capabilities of higher-end models, what it does offer is a lightweight, rugged, and thoughtfully designed tool that enhances pace of play and decision-making. For those who value simplicity and performance over bells and whistles, the Appoarch G20 Solar is one of the smartest additions you can make to your golf bag.
