This in-depth blog covers the top 7 best free golf GPS apps for iPhone in 2025. Designed for amateur and casual golfers, the article reviews and compares each app's functionality, GPS accuracy, course availability, ease of use, and bonus features like shot tracking and scorekeeping.
Are you tired of guessing distances on the golf course? Wondering if there's a reliable, free golf GPS app that actually works on your iPhone? You’re not alone. As a golf enthusiast myself, I used to fumble between scorecards, yardage books, and sheer guesswork before realizing there are apps that make this game way easier—and they won’t cost you a dime.
So, I went ahead and tested a bunch of them.
Whether you’re a weekend golfer, trying to shave a few strokes off your game, or just want to stop over- or under-clubbing, this blog is for you. I’m going to walk you through the top 7 best free golf GPS apps for iPhone in 2025, complete with pros, cons, and who each app is really for.
And hey, if you’re someone who enjoys analyzing your swing or breaking down shots with your buddies on a whiteboard during post-round reviews (guilty 🙋), check out the NearHub S55 Touch Screen Whiteboard and the NearHub S65 Webcam Whiteboard—super helpful if you're into visualizing your game off the course.
Let’s dive in!
1. Hole19 – Best Free Golf GPS App for iPhone with Score Tracking
LSIs: scorecard app, golf GPS rangefinder, shot tracker
If you want something that’s both simple and smart, Hole19 is your go-to. This app gives accurate GPS yardages, tracks scores, and even lets you compete with your friends.
Why I love it:
- Clean interface that doesn’t distract you mid-round
- Over 43,000 courses worldwide
- Distance to front, center, and back of the green
- Digital scorecard included
What could be better:
- Some features are behind a paywall (like shot-by-shot tracking)
Pro tip: Use Hole19 during practice rounds, then review your game using a smart board like the NearHub S75 to analyze areas for improvement visually.
2. Golfshot – Best Free Golf GPS App for iPhone with Visuals
LSIs: GPS map views, flyover preview, shot distance calculator
Golfshot is ideal for visual learners. This app provides a flyover preview of each hole, giving you a strategic edge before you hit your first shot.
Features I love:
- Real-time distances to hazards and greens
- Beautiful 3D flyovers
- Siri integration for hands-free commands
Downsides:
- 3D features are limited in the free version
- Can drain battery quickly
Great for: Golfers who want to plan their shots like a pro.
3. TheGrint – Best Free iPhone App for Golf GPS and Handicap Tracking
LSIs: official USGA handicap, golf stat tracker, live scorecard
If you’re serious about tracking your progress and building a handicap, TheGrint gives you all the tools—without the price tag.
Why TheGrint stands out:
- Connects with the USGA for legit handicap tracking
- Free GPS rangefinder
- Social leaderboard to compete with friends
Minor drawback:
- Interface takes a bit to get used to
Bonus: If you’re into stats and charts, sync your scores with a whiteboard canvas to keep track of your progress over time. Super satisfying.
4. 18Birdies – Best Free Golf GPS App with Social Features
LSIs: golf app with friends, GPS rangefinder free, game improvement tools
Want to make your round more interactive? 18Birdies blends performance tools with a fun social vibe.
What I liked:
- Accurate GPS for 35,000+ courses
- Digital scorecard
- Golf-themed side games (yes, they’re fun)
Room for improvement:
- Premium features pushed pretty hard in the app
Still, for a free golf GPS app that keeps things fun, this one’s hard to beat.
5. GolfLogix – Best Free Golf GPS App for Green Reading
LSIs: putt line, green heat map, golf strategy app
This one’s for the green-reading nerds (you know who you are 👀).
What GolfLogix delivers:
- Shows you slope and contours of the green
- GPS with distances to front/middle/back
- Works on over 35,000 courses
Downsides:
- Heavy on in-app purchases
Still, it’s one of the only apps that gives you putting strategy in the free version.
6. SwingU – Best Free Golf GPS App for iPhone with Coaching Tips
LSIs: golf coach app, swing analysis, golf drills
SwingU is more than just a GPS—it’s like having a coach in your pocket.
Features worth noting:
- GPS yardages
- Score tracking
- Free daily golf tips
Downsides:
- Ads can be a bit much
Perfect if you’re trying to level up without paying for a coach.
7. Apple Maps Golf Course Layer (Beta) – Best Built-In Option
LSIs: Apple Golf Maps, integrated GPS, iPhone golf tools
This feature is new in iOS 18, and while still in beta, it’s shockingly good.
Why I included it:
- It’s already on your iPhone
- Course maps + real-time location
- Apple Watch integration
Limitations:
- Only available on select courses for now
Still, definitely one to watch in 2025.
🧠 Comparison Table: Best Free Golf GPS Apps for iPhone
| App | Free GPS | Score Tracking | Social | Handicap | Flyovers | Coaching Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hole19 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Golfshot | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| TheGrint | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 18Birdies | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ (some) |
| GolfLogix | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| SwingU | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Apple Maps | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
🧩 How to Choose the Best Free Golf GPS App for iPhone (In 2025)
Still not sure which one is best for you?
- Want accurate distances and easy score tracking? Go with Hole19 or Golfshot.
- Need handicap tracking? TheGrint has you covered.
- Love playing with friends? Try 18Birdies.
- Into coaching and swing tips? SwingU is awesome.
- Just want something quick and integrated? Apple Maps Golf Layer is surprisingly good.
Use what fits your game style best. All these apps are free to download, so you can test them without commitment.
🙋♂️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the best free golf GPS app for iPhone in 2025?
Hole19 is currently my top pick overall for ease of use, accuracy, and features.
Q2: Do I need an internet connection to use golf GPS apps?
Most of them allow you to download course maps ahead of time, so you don’t need Wi-Fi or data once you're on the course.
Q3: Are these apps really free?
Yes—but many have premium upgrades for extra features. The free versions are very usable for casual players.
Q4: Will a free golf GPS app help my game?
Absolutely. Even just knowing your distance to the pin can save you strokes. Combine it with post-round reviews using a NearHub smart board to visualize patterns and areas to improve.
🏁 Final Thoughts
There’s never been a better time to be a golfer with an iPhone. These best free golf GPS apps make it easier to track your shots, understand distances, and play smarter without spending a fortune.
Personally, I rotate between TheGrint and Hole19—one for stats and one for ease. But the best app is the one that fits your game.
And when you’re done with your round, imagine pulling up your stats and notes on a sleek NearHub Whiteboard Canvas. It’s like watching game tape—but for golf.
Happy golfing, and here’s to shaving strokes off your scorecard!
sales@nearhub.us
