Disclosure: We may earn a commission when you purchase through links on this page at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Learn more
Major R10 Update Arrives
Garmin has released a significant firmware update for the Approach R10, addressing several user-requested improvements and adding new functionality. The update rolls out automatically via the Garmin Golf app.
What's New
Improved Indoor Accuracy
The most anticipated improvement: better performance in simulator setups.
Changes:
- Enhanced ball tracking algorithms for short distances to screen
- Improved spin calculation in indoor environments
- Better handling of limited ball flight data
- Reduced "no read" occurrences
User reports indicate:
- 15-20% fewer missed shots indoors
- More consistent spin readings
- Better correlation with premium launch monitors
New Club Detection
The R10 now better identifies club type automatically:
- More accurate club recognition
- Improved data logging by club
- Better integration with Garmin Golf statistics
Extended Battery Life
Firmware optimizations have improved battery performance:
- Previous: ~10 hours per charge
- Updated: ~12 hours per charge (reported)
This makes all-day range sessions and multiple simulator rounds more practical.
GSPro Connection Stability
Improvements to the R10 OpenConnect protocol:
- More stable connection to GSPro and other simulators
- Fewer disconnections during long sessions
- Better error recovery when connection drops
- Faster reconnection after interruptions
Bug Fixes
Several reported issues addressed:
- Fixed occasional club speed spikes
- Resolved rare battery drain issue
- Corrected data sync problems with Garmin Connect
- Addressed app crashes during session saves
How to Update
The firmware updates automatically, but you can check manually:
- Open Garmin Golf app on your phone
- Ensure R10 is powered on and nearby
- Go to R10 settings within app
- Check for "Update Available"
- Follow prompts to install
Update time: Approximately 5-10 minutes
Note: Don't power off the R10 during update. Ensure adequate battery (50%+ recommended).
User Reactions
Early feedback from the golf simulator community has been positive:
Reddit/Golf Simulator Community:
"Indoor accuracy is noticeably better. Had several sessions with zero missed shots where I used to get 2-3 per session."
"Finally feels stable with GSPro. No more random disconnects mid-round."
Golf Forum Reports:
"Spin numbers seem more believable indoors now. Still not GCQuad-level but definitely improved."
What This Means for R10 Owners
If You Use R10 for Simulation
This update is essential. The improved indoor accuracy and GSPro stability address the two biggest complaints from simulator users. Update immediately.
If You Use R10 Outdoors Only
The battery life improvement and club detection are nice-to-haves. No urgency, but no reason not to update.
If You're Considering an R10
Garmin Approach R10
Budget-FriendlyPortable radar launch monitor. 13 metrics, works indoors and out. The budget king.
Pros
- Best value launch monitor on the market
- Portable and easy to set up in minutes
- Works indoors and outdoors
- Free Garmin Golf app with virtual courses
Cons
- Premium subscription unlocks more features
- Less accurate than $2K+ options
- Battery-powered (4+ hours life)
We may earn a commission if you purchase through this link
The R10 was already the best value in launch monitors. This update makes it even better for home simulator use, further cementing its position as the go-to budget option.
Current pricing: ~$599
R10 vs Competitors After Update
R10 vs Rapsodo MLM2PRO
| Feature | R10 (Updated) | MLM2PRO | |---------|---------------|---------| | Price | $599 | $699 | | Indoor accuracy | Good (improved) | Very Good | | Video capture | No | Yes | | Simulator integration | Excellent | Good | | Battery life | 12 hours | 10 hours |
The gap has narrowed, but MLM2PRO still edges ahead on raw indoor accuracy. R10 maintains advantages in simulator integration and price.
R10 vs Mevo+
| Feature | R10 (Updated) | Mevo+ | |---------|---------------|-------| | Price | $599 | $1,999 | | Indoor accuracy | Good | Very Good | | Outdoor accuracy | Good | Excellent | | Pro mode | No | Yes | | Simulator integration | Excellent | Good |
Mevo+ remains superior for those prioritizing accuracy, but at over 3x the price.
Known Remaining Limitations
Despite improvements, the R10 still has limitations:
Spin accuracy: Better but still calculated, not directly measured. Premium units remain more accurate.
Positioning sensitivity: Still requires careful setup. Position per Garmin's specifications.
Low-light performance: Struggles in dim environments. Ensure adequate lighting.
Very short shots: Chips and pitches may not register reliably.
Tips for Best Results Post-Update
Indoor Setup
- Position 6-8 feet behind ball
- Ensure 400+ lumens lighting at ball
- Use quality golf balls (not range balls)
- Level the unit carefully
- Align directly toward screen center
Software Settings
For GSPro users:
- Use R10 OpenConnect
- Enable "Enhanced Indoor Mode" if available
- Set altitude and temperature correctly
- Restart connection if issues occur
Calibration
After update, do a brief calibration session:
- Hit 10 shots with mid-iron
- Compare to expected numbers
- Adjust settings if needed
- Verify consistency across multiple clubs
What's Next for R10?
Garmin hasn't announced future updates, but community speculation includes:
- Possible video integration (unlikely given hardware)
- Enhanced putting mode (requested)
- Direct E6 integration improvements
- Club path visualization in app
The R10 continues to receive meaningful updates two years after release, suggesting Garmin's commitment to the product.
Bottom Line
This firmware update addresses real user pain points, particularly for indoor simulator use. If you own an R10, update now. If you're considering one for home simulation, this update strengthens the value proposition.
The R10 remains the best budget launch monitor for golf simulators, and this update widens the gap with competitors in its price range.
Related Resources
- Best Launch Monitors Under $1,000 - Full comparison
- Simulator Accuracy Calibration - Get the best data
- Best Simulator Software - Pair with GSPro
- Budget Build Under $1,500 - Complete setup guide
Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this article are affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you make a purchase - at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we believe in. Learn more