I have the Fenix 5X and have been trying to use it as a GPS for golfing. The accuracy of this device prevents me from using it as it is out as much as 50 yards at times. Is there a calibration or something that needs to be done in order to use this watch for golfing?
Here are some tips on how to improve your accessory of your fenix 5 while golfing:
Start your round while you are outside instead of in the clubhouse. Keep your software update to data with Garmin Express Making sure that you have the new version of the Golf Courses download on your fenix.
If you continue to have issues, check with the Golf Course to see if they have had any major changes to the golf course and let us know via the Golf Course Report Form since the incorrect distances could be due to outdated Course Map information.
I have tried everything and have come to the conclusion that this watch cannot be used as a Golf GPS. The accuracy is incredibly bad. I have an S20 also and when playing at my home course, they are different from 20 yards all the way up to 60 yards on par 5s. Not once did they show the same distance within 20 yards. Using a scope, the S20 is actually quite close in accuracy, the Fenix 5x, not at all. I have played 17 rounds of golf so far this season and played many different courses and it doesn't matter what course I play on. I even tried updating my watch to the 8.99 beta and that didn't make any difference. I have deleted all the courses and reloaded them and the same result. I only start the watch when outside on the first tee box. I give up on this watch, don't think for a second that you can use it as a golf GPS!!
I haven't played golf in years, but have a friend who also has a 5x and their primary use for the watch is as a "golf watch." They have reported to me that it was the "best golf watch they've ever used," so they seem quite happy with it.
So if I am the only one having issues, Garmin, how do I exchange this watch for a new one because it certainly does not work for me. I have played in Phoenix AZ and Calgary, Canada and it doesn't matter where I play, the accuracy is so bad I can't use it. I purchased this watch 2-3 months ago from Amazon.
I think the 5x is awesome for golf. I used the G8 for a couple years but only use the 5X last year and this year. I also have a Nikon range finder and find the 5x to be very accurate. Ive probably played 30 rounds on many different courses in different states. The swing detection and accuracy is also great. I mainly use the watch for running and yes, the GPS doesnt give perfect tracks and is terrible in a big city (Chicago Marathon was a disaster). However, on the golf course it seems great.
If you record (say) a walk in a park, Carmichael - does that track well? If all your GPS tracks are off then it may well be the watch. I don't know what other settings, those that report good use, are using - perhaps they can share. I pretty much just ride and use 1 second recording and gps only - it works well (not great) for me. Perhaps changes there will help.
I have not adjusted any GPS related settings on the watch as I haven't been able to find any. If someone knows of some settings that need to be adjusted please let me know.
Just curious, for those that use the watch for golf and don't have any issues, where do you download your courses from? I use the "Download Golf Courses" from the Connect app. Is this where you get yours from too?
HRCARMICHAEL, I haven’t downloaded courses or at least don’t recall ever doing so. All I do is hit Golf when I’m at a course and then the course shows on the screen. I select that course and head to the tee. I’ve used this when golfing in Florida, Georgia, Indiana, etc.
