It’s legit. Tech is literally transforming the world of golf. And frankly, it isn’t about just swingin’ clubs anymore. You’ve got to have the right tools that’ll shave off those extra strokes. Tools like GPS devices and smartphones are at the disposal of modern-day golfers looking to improve their performance. What’s more, yardage apps are becoming your ultimate bud on the green. With these bad boys, you’re looking at apps that give you that crucial info right when you need it.
In this post, we’re going to get into 9 yardage apps for 2024. This list will cover the features, pros, cons, and overall performance of these. Whether you’ve got tons of golfing experience, or you're new to the green, this guide will help you choose the best yardage app and golf GPS app to really level-up your drive on the range. Let’s “hit the green”.
Table of Contents
TL;DR
- Rokform: Best for secure mounting and military-grade protection.
Arccos Caddie: Best for detailed performance analytics.
Hole 19: Best free option with extensive course coverage.
Motocaddy GPS App: Best for incorporating life saving features.
VPAR: Best for tournament play and live leaderboards.
Bushnell Golf App: Best for 3D hole layouts and fitness tracking.
Golfshot Golf GPS & Statistics: Best for AR features and comprehensive stats.
SkyCaddie Mobile: Best for precise maps and low battery consumption.
SwingU Golf GPS: Best for strokes-gained analysis and wind speed measurement.
Criteria Breakdown
For the best yardage app, there’s a few things we need to consider. Let’s take a closer look at what really matters:
Accuracy of Yardages: This is the big one. That’s because yardages to the front, middle and back of the green must be precise. Otherwise, you might as well be guessing. We made sure to assess each golf yardage app on the reliability of the information they provided us with.
Course Coverage: No matter what course you’re playing on, the app needs to be useful. All yardage apps were tested to ensure you never go without the critical intel you need, wherever the course takes you.
Features: In modern times, features tend to go beyond that basic yardage info. That’s why we looked at added features like shot tracking, club recommendations, scorekeeping, and statistical analysis.
Ease of Use: Honestly, the last thing anybody wants to fool with mid-round is a frustrating interface. So we took a look at how intuitive and easy to use each app was.
Battery Consumption: Golf rounds often stretch on. No one wants their phone dying due to a yardage app. This is why we checked out how quickly each app drains battery usage.
Compatibility: Modern times call for modern measures and many golfers wear smartwatches. We took a gander at the compatibility of the app with wearable devices to see if it made things more convenient.
Cost: Some apps are free while others require a subscription. That’s why we looked at the value you get for your money.
Community Reviews: Lastly, we looked at what others are saying about these yardage apps. Reviews from others can provide insights into pros and cons you won’t find in a feature list.
Rokform
Best for Secure Mounting and Military-Grade Protection
Anyone who’s serious about golf tech should definitely check out Rokform. We’re known for more than just our rugged phone cases. We also provide seamless integration with the best yardage app. We bring something truly special to the table for golfers with our cases that are crafted to offer military-grade protection and some pretty impressive Neodymium magnets that allow you to mount your phone onto any magnetic surface (including golf carts). This makes it ridiculously easy to check out your golf GPS app on-the-fly. You’ll be able to track shots and take a look at yardage info, all while keeping your phone safe from drops and shocks. Now, that’s Rokform convenience.
But it doesn’t stop there. Rokform cases come with the patented Roklock twist lock system. This system keeps your phone in place, even on the most bumpy rides. iPhone, Samsung, and Google Pixel users, we’ve got you covered with a case that gives you 6-foot drop protection and 360-degree security for your phone.
Whether you’re playing on some of the best golf courses for Spring vacations or soakin’ up the sun in the heat of Summer, Rokform is here so you can focus on your game without worrying about dropping your device.
Arccos Caddie
Best for Detailed Performance Analytics
On our list for the best yardage app, we have Arccos Caddie. This app comes with detailed performance analytics. Some say this makes it one the best golf GPS apps around. It uses smart sensors that automatically track your shots. Plus, it offers AI-power club recommendations. Within just a few rounds, you’ll be getting personalized insights.
Features
Arccos Caddie offers a range of features that set it apart from other yardage apps. Some of the standout features include:
Smart Sensors: Auto-track your shots with no need for manual input.
AI-Powered Club Recommendations: AI to get the best club suggestions based on your game and course conditions.
Strokes Gained Analytics: This feature of this golf GPS app lets you take a look at your performance to see where you can improve.
Extensive Course Database: With over 40,000 courses mapped, Arccos Caddie is mapped for accurate yardages wherever you play.
Wearable Compatibility: As golf GPS apps go, this one is ready to sync with smartwatches.
Pros
Comprehensive Data Collection
AI-Powered Recommendations
Extensive Course Database
Wearable Compatibility
Cons
Expensive Initial Setup
Battery-Intensive
Criteria Evaluation
Accuracy of Yardages: 5/5
Course Coverage: 5/5
Features: 5/5
Ease of Use: 4/5
Battery Consumption: 3/5
Compatibility: 5/5
Cost: 3/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
When it comes to Arccos Caddie as the best yardage app, users and experts alike are raving about it.
One user mentioned, "Arccos Caddie has revolutionized my game. The detailed performance data and club recommendations have made a noticeable difference in my scores."
Another added, “ "The smart sensors are incredibly convenient. I no longer have to manually input my shots, which saves a lot of time and ensures that my data is accurate."
Price
So what’s it going to cost you? With Arccos Caddie, you get the smart sensors for free. However, there’s an annual cost for the membership of $158.88. It’s not among the free golf GPS apps, but the sensors are free. Many users find that the benefits far outweigh the cost.
Hole 19
Best Free Option with Extensive Course Coverage
Next up, for the best yardage app is Hole 19. If you’re looking for a killer golf GPS app, this could be it.
Features
When it comes to golf GPS apps, here’s what Hole 19 brings to the table:
Extensive Course Database: With over 42,000 courses mapped, you’re covered wherever you play.
GPS Distances: This golf GPS app provides precise distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as to hazards and layup points.
Apple Watch Compatibility: For convenient use during your round, you can access directly from your iWatch.
Scorekeeping: Track your scores and stats easily within the app.
Premium Membership: Unlock advanced features like club recommendations and performance statistics by subscribing to the premium membership.
Pros
Free to Use
Extensive Course Database
Apple Watch Compatibility
User-Friendly Interface
Cons
Premium Features Require Subscription
Occasional Inaccuracies
Criteria Evaluation
Accuracy of Yardages: 4.5/5
Course Coverage: 5/5
Features: 4/5
Ease of Use: 5/5
Battery Consumption: 4.5/5
Compatibility: 5/5
Cost: 5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
When it comes to Hole 19 as the best yardage app, the golf community is super positive about the app’s extensive course database and the convenience it offers. Experts also talk about how easy hole 19 is to use, but they recommend upgrading to a premium membership to really take advantage of all this app has to offer.
One user noted, "Hole 19 is a fantastic free app that offers everything I need on the course. The Apple Watch integration is a game-changer."
Price
With Hole 19, you’re looking at another free Golf GPS app on our list. But keep in mind it does offer a premium for $7.99 per month or $49.99 per year.
Motocaddy GPS App
Best for Incorporating Life Saving Features
With the Motocaddy golf GPS app, you’re looking at a standout option. As one of the best golf GPS apps on the market, it doesn’t just help your golf game, it keeps you safe on the course.
Features
Motocaddy is the best golf GPS app because it packs a punch:
Lifesaving AED and CPR Features: Available for golfers in the UK and Ireland, these features provide critical information in case of emergencies.
Extensive Course Database: Thanks to over 40,000 courses mapped, you’ll get the access to yardages you need.
GPS Distances: The app provides accurate distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as to hazards and layup points.
Stat Tracking: Track your stats and learn more about your game with this feature.
User-Friendly Redesign: As golf GPS apps go, this one has been redesigned making it easier to use.
Pros
Lifesaving Features
Extensive Course Database
Free to Use
User-Friendly Redesign
Cons
Limited to UK and Ireland for Lifesaving Features
Occasional Inaccuracies
Criteria Evaluation
Accuracy of Yardages: 4/5
Course Coverage: 4.5/5
Features: 4/5
Ease of Use: 4.5/5
Battery Consumption: 4/5
Compatibility: 4/5
Cost: 5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
The golfing community praises Motocaddy as the best yardage app, especially because of its life saving features. Experts dig the app’s unique features and affordability.
One user mentioned, "Motocaddy GPS App is a fantastic tool on the course. The lifesaving features give me peace of mind, and the stat tracking has helped me identify areas for improvement."
Price
Motocaddy is another free golf GPS app you can use. This means you can use all features without breaking out your wallet.However, some features are only available to registered users.
VPAR
Best for Tournament Play and Live Leaderboards
VPAR made our list for the best yardage app because it’s perfect for golfers who thrive on competition. With this golf GPS app, it keeps everyone in the loop.
Features
Here’s how VPAR stands up to the golf GPS apps competition:
Tournament Play: Set up and play tournaments with friends. You can even compete with live leaderboards.
Various Formats: No matter your game style you’re covered. This best golf GPS app supports stroke play, match play, and stableford formats.
Detailed Performance Stats: Analyze your game & improve your performance.
Extensive Course Database: Over 30,000 courses mapped out here.
Free to Download: You’re looking at a free app with optional premium features.
Pros
Tournament Play
Live Leaderboards
Detailed Performance Stats
Free to Download
Cons
Premium Features Require Subscription
Limited Course Coverage Compared to Competitors
Criteria Evaluation
Accuracy of Yardages: 4.5/5
Course Coverage: 4/5
Features: 4.5/5
Ease of Use: 4/5
Battery Consumption: 4/5
Compatibility: 4/5
Cost: 4/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
VPAR is touted as the best yardage app and gets high marks from the golfing community. Experts state3 that VPAR is a kick-ass option for golfers who dig competitive play.
One user mentioned, "VPAR has made our weekend tournaments so much more exciting. The live leaderboards keep everyone engaged, and the performance stats have helped me pinpoint areas for improvement."
Price
VPAR offers a free golf GPS, but there are premium upgrades available. For premium, you’re looking at $7.99 per month or $49.99 per year.
Bushnell Golf App
Best for 3D Hole Layouts and Fitness Tracking
Alright, next up for best yardage app, we’ve got the Bushnell Golf GPS app. This is a stellar choice for golfers who really dig a more detailed approach. It’s important to note that this app is specific to Bushnell Golf GPS and laser rangefinder users.
Features
With Bushnell, you get the best golf GPS app because of things like:
3D Hole Layouts: Get 3D views of each hole for a crystal clear picture of the course.
GPS Distances: Distances are precise for the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as to hazards and layup points.
Fitness Tracking: Monitor your fitness activities, including daily steps, speed, pace, and distance with golf GPS apps like this one.
Score Tracking: Enter your scores and track trends in your game.
Extensive Course Database: Over 38,000 courses mapped for precise yardage.
Pros
3D Hole Layouts
Fitness Tracking
Free to Use
Extensive Course Database
Cons
Requires Additional Bushnell Devices for Some Features
Battery Usage Can Be High
Criteria Evaluation
Accuracy of Yardages: 4.5/5
Course Coverage: 4/5
Features: 4/5
Ease of Use: 4.5/5
Battery Consumption: 4/5
Compatibility: 4/5
Cost: 5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
According to the golfing community, Bushnell is the best yardage app and gets a whole lotta love from golfers. Experts talk highly of its features and recommend it to golfers who value having detailed course info along with fitness tracking.
One user mentioned, "The 3D hole layouts on the Bushnell Golf App are fantastic. They give me a clear understanding of the course, and the fitness tracking features are a great bonus."
Price
With Bushnell, we’ve got another free golf GPS app. This makes it a go-to option for golfers that desire a feature-rich and cost-effective tool. This golf app offers extensive features for free, making it a tough one to beat.
Golfshot Golf GPS & Statistics
Best for AR Features and Comprehensive Stats
As a powerhouse golf GPS app, Golfshot Golf GPS & Statistics is well-known for good reason. Its slick augmented reality (AR) features and comprehensive stats make it a best yardage app for real-time.
Features
With Golfshot, you’re getting the best golf GPS app due to the value it packs:
Augmented Reality (AR): Turn your phone camera into a detailed 360-degree course map.
GPS Distances: Accurate and real-time distances to greens, hazards, and other targets on over 45,000 courses worldwide.
Club Recommendations: Premium users get club recommendations based on performance.
Comprehensive Stats: Track your performance to decipher any areas for improvement.
Wearable Compatibility: As golf GPS apps go, this one is compatible with many smartwatches.
Pros
Augmented Reality Features
Comprehensive Statistics
Club Recommendations
Extensive Course Database
Cons
Premium Features Require Subscription
Battery Usage Can Be High
Criteria Evaluation
Accuracy of Yardages: 5/5
Course Coverage: 5/5
Features: 5/5
Ease of Use: 4.5/5
Battery Consumption: 3.5/5
Compatibility: 5/5
Cost: 4/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
With widespread acclaim from many golfers, Golfshot Golf GPS & Statistics could be the best yardage app. Experts also say Golfshot is a top pick for those who want the most detailed course info and performance insights.
One user mentioned, "Golfshot's AR feature is a game-changer. It gives me a real-time view of the course, and the statistical analysis has helped me improve my performance."
Price
With Golfshot, you get a free golf GPS version with basic features. There’s also a premium version available for $69.99 per year. There’s also Lifetime for $119.99 and monthly for $14.99.
SkyCaddie Mobile
Best for Precise Maps and Low Battery Consumption
When you’re searching for the best yardage app, you just might find it with SkyCaddie Mobile, the precise map golf GPS app that offers low battery consumption.
Features
SkyCaddie Mobile is touted as the best golf GPS app because of its added value:
TrueGround Course Maps: The data this app delivers is extremely accurate.
Interactive Hole Views: Tap on the screen to get accurate distances to different points on the course.
Low Battery Consumption: This is one of the golf GPS apps that’s badass because it’s so battery-efficient.
Score Tracking: Log your scores and track your performance.
Stat Logging: Keep track of your stats and improve your game.
Pros
Precise Maps
Low Battery Consumption
Interactive Hole Views
Score and Stat Tracking
Cons
Limited Free Features
Requires Premium Membership for Advanced Features
Criteria Evaluation
Accuracy of Yardages: 5/5
Course Coverage: 4.5/5
Features: 4/5
Ease of Use: 4/5
Battery Consumption: 4.5/5
Compatibility: 4/5
Cost: 4/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
SkyCaddie Mobile is notable for being the best yardage app among golfers. They love the maps and the little amount of battery usage it takes to run it. Experts state that the precise maps are perfect for golfers looking for top-notch accuracy.
One user mentioned, "SkyCaddie Mobile is incredibly accurate. The interactive hole views give me all the information I need, and the battery lasts through the entire round."
Price
Again, SkyCaddie Mobile is on our list as one of the free golf GPS apps. But for $30 to $50 per year, you can get some pretty swanky additional features.
SwingU Golf GPS
Best for Strokes-Gained Analysis and Wind Speed Measurement
If you’re looking for the absolute-best yardage app, you just might find it in the SwingU Golf GPS app. This app is notable for its strokes-gained analysis and wind speed measurement.
Features
SwingU is the best golf GPS app because of the sweet features like these:
Strokes-Gained Analysis: Detailed performance breakdown.
Wind Speed Measurement: Access wind speed data and make smarter club decisions.
GPS Distances: As golf GPS apps go, this one gives you precise distance to the front, middle, and back of the green. Additionally, it shows hazards and layup points.
Shot Tracking: Track your shots and receive recommendations.
Extensive Course Database: SwingU has over 35,000 courses mapped.
Pros
Strokes-Gained Analysis
Wind Speed Measurement
Shot Tracking
Extensive Course Database
Cons
Premium Features Require Subscription
Battery Usage Can Be High
Criteria Evaluation
Accuracy of Yardages: 4.5/5
Course Coverage: 4.5/5
Features: 5/5
Ease of Use: 4.5/5
Battery Consumption: 4/5
Compatibility: 4/5
Cost: 4.5/5
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Golfers say SwingU is a hit and one of the best yardage apps around. Experts love its innovative features and accuracy.
One user mentioned, "SwingU Golf GPS has been a game-changer for me. The strokes-gained analysis has helped me identify areas for improvement, and the wind speed measurement is incredibly useful."
Price
SwingU is among our free golf GPS apps, but for $49.99 per year for plus & $99.99 per year for pro.
Notable Mentions
We didn’t have enough time to talk about all of the best yardage apps in detail, so here’s some notable mentions to check out:
18 Birdies
This free golfing app helps keep score, track shots, and get distances.
GolfLogix
This app has over 35,000 courses mapped and helps golfers up-their-game.
GAMEGOLF
Track your golfing-game performance with this app . Collects stats and more.
The Grint
This free golf GPS app and golf handicap tracker offers shot tracking, scoring, stats, benchmarks, and more.
FAQs
What are yardage apps?
A golf yardage app is a mobile tool that helps golfers determine points of distance along the golf course. Additionally, they offer features like stats, scorekeeping, and shot tracking.
How accurate are yardage apps?
Golf GPS apps are usually accurate, depending on the course map details and GPS quality.
Are yardage apps compatible with smartwatches?
Yes, the best golf GPS apps work with smartwatches, so golfers can access key info on-the-fly.
How much do yardage apps cost?
Golfers can find premium and free golf GPS apps. Premium memberships cost anywhere from $19.99 - $59.99 per year.
What are the benefits of using a yardage app?
With a golf GPS app, golfers are going to make some serious gains, as it helps with precise distances, shot planning, aid in club selection, and much more.
Final Thoughts
Retrospective
When it comes to choosing the best yardage app, remember to keep these things in mind:
Accurate yardages are imperative to plan your shot and select your club.
Many yardage apps offer additional features.
Smartwatch compatibility makes for the best yardage app.
Free and premium versions provide options.
When you choose the best yardage app, you’re truly bound to level up your golf game.
At Rokform, we get it. The best yardage apps and reliable tools are of the utmost importance on the course. That’s why we’re proud to offer rugged Rokform cases for Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy , so your device stays safe and accessible while you’re using your chosen yardage app. So go on and hit that sweet spot.
Conclusion
Interested in learning about other Rokform approved apps for your smartphone? Check out some of our posts below: