GOLFBUDDY AIM W12 GOLF GPS WATCH REVIEW
The GolfBuddy Aim W12 Golf GPS Watch is another excellent choice for golfers who prioritize accuracy and usability. This model comes pre-loaded with 40,000 courses worldwide, ensuring you have the necessary data no matter where you play. While its battery life of 10 hours may be shorter compared to the Aim W11, it still promises sufficient power for a full day out on the course. The Aim W12 sports a 3.3 cm screen and weighs just 50g, offering a lightweight and comfortable fit for any golfer. The package includes two straps for additional customization options.
GOLFBUDDY AIM W12 GOLF GPS WATCH REVIEW
The golf watches available today offer a wide range of features that exceed expectations. The Aim W12 is a prime example of a cutting-edge and feature-packed watch designed to provide golfers with more than just basic yardage. Visually, Aim W12 is a significant improvement over its predecessor, Aim W11 from 2021. It has a sleeker look, thanks to the flatter button in the corner, and comes with a premium leather strap as well as an extra silicon strap in the box. Navigation is primarily controlled through the clear and responsive color touch screen, with minimal need to use the buttons. This ensures that golfers can stay focused on their game. The Aim W12 has earned a place in our 2023 Editor’s Choice for its performance and usability.
While there was a slight delay in locating the course, Aim W12 starts displaying distances once you reach the first tee, accompanied by a 2D flyover of the hole. This provides an initial idea of the upcoming challenges and hazards. Swiping left from the main screen showing front, middle, and back distances reveals a color hole map. The maps are serviceable, showing all the necessary information, but they are not overly detailed or visually captivating. On the hole maps, orange arced graphics indicate the landing areas for 150, 200, and 250-yard drives, while dashed blue graphics show the remaining distance to the green. Touching the screen replaces these graphics with a touch target scope that can be moved up and down the hole. Zooming in for a closer look is possible by pressing the + icon.
Another useful feature is the graphical representation of the green, which allows you to adjust the pin position for more accurate distance measurements. In the US, users can access a green undulation heat map that displays the slope angles and severity of the putting surfaces. This is particularly handy for lining up birdie putts. Shot distances can be measured, and there is also a hazard list, although it would have been helpful to know the distances to carry and reach the hazards.
One notable improvement of Aim W12 over its predecessor is the inclusion of slope functionality, which considers elevation changes when providing distances. This is especially beneficial on hilly courses, and a small icon is displayed when the slope feature is turned on. Only a few watches offer this feature, such as the Bushnell Ion Elite, Garmin Approach S62, and Voice Caddie T9, making the Aim W12 part of an elite group of the best golf watches. For competition use, the slope functionality can be easily disabled through the settings.
My experience with the Aim W12 is nearly flawless. Apart from the initial delay in locating the course, accessing different screens is quick and intuitive, requiring minimal swiping. The battery life in golf mode is slightly reduced compared to the Aim W11, lasting for about 10 hours, which should be sufficient for two full rounds. The Aim W12 is now also IPX7 waterproof, providing peace of mind in case of unexpected rain. While it can be worn off the course and includes fitness features like a step counter, the styling is more suited for golf-specific use.
Dominic J. Leon –
The GolfBuddy Aim W12 has been a great addition to my game. The slope function has greatly improved my accuracy on the course.