Last updated: 3 August 2026
Reviewed by Jordan Morley, FA Level 2 Football Coach
Handicap Index
Enter your score differentials (Score - Course Rating + 113/Slope Rating). Add at least 3 scores.
Or use the quick calculator below — enter gross score, course rating and slope.
Top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Garmin Approach S62 Golf Watch | GPS golf watch with full course maps, shot tracking and handicap assistance. | Check price → |
| Option | Arccos Caddie Smart Sensors | Shot tracking system that calculates real handicap and club distances automatically. | Check price → |
| Option | Golf Handicap Record Book | Record your rounds and differentials for accurate handicap tracking. | Check price → |
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Frequently asked questions
What's a good handicap for a recreational golfer?
The average male golfer has a handicap of around 16-18; female golfers around 26-28. Single figures (below 10) is considered a strong club-level player; scratch or better is very rare.
How quickly does a handicap change?
The WHS updates daily based on recent scores. The system is designed to track recent performance — a bad run pulls the handicap up; sustained improvement brings it down. Low handicap differentials are 'capped' to prevent manipulation.