WHS (World Handicap System) and GHIN (Golf Handicap & Information Network) are two of the most popular golf handicap systems in the world. They’re used by the USGA (United States Golf Association), making them the go-to systems for most professional and amateur golfers. However, they’re quite different from each other.
WHS is often more accurate because it has more frequent updates. It also accounts for the weather. Many people rely on GHIN because it’s been around much longer, and it’s been used by the USGA for a longer period of time. GHIN is also used by more golfers worldwide.
In this article, I’ll break down the differences between WHS and GHIN to help you know which one is better for you.
Comparing WHS and GHIN
Comparing WHS vs. GHIN is difficult because GHIN is much more popular, but WHS has more functionality. If you want to stick with a system that’s known to work and has been used for many years, GHIN is the clear winner. However, WHS has a lot to offer golfers of all levels.
In many cases, WHS is more user-friendly (especially for beginners). It offers quicker indexing with a higher maximum index, which is very useful for those who are new to golfing. It also accounts for various conditions that GHIN doesn’t consider.
Without further ado, here’s a table breakdown of the primary differences between WHS and GHIN:
| Trait | WHS | GHIN |
| System Updates | The following day | The 1st & 15th monthly |
| Index Frequency | 54 holes (8 best scores) | 90 holes (10 best scores) |
| Maximum Hole Score | Net double bogey | No maximum |
| Performance Factors | Weather reports | N/A |
| Maximum Handicap Index | 54 (men and women) | 36.4 (men) & 40.4 (women) |
According to the Southern California Golf Association, the GHIN system has been around since 1981. While it’s not being replaced with the WHS, it’s one of the six systems that make the WHS. This means that features like the determining handicap factors transfer over. However, the numbers are adjusted (as listed above).
Should You Rely on WHS or GHIN?
You should rely on WHS if you’re a beginner or you want to use the newest and most up-to-date handicapping system. That said, you should use GHIN if you want a tried and true method that’s been used for quite a while.
In comparison, the WHS has only been around since 2020, making it significantly newer than GHIN. However, it can be used on any course in the world, so it’s extremely reliable, useful, and accessible.
GHIN offers mobile apps and other tools to find your handicap through one of the oldest and most reliable systems. It’s worth trying both systems to find out which one works best for you.
Final Thoughts
Although GHIN is more popular, WHS is gaining traction for many reasons. Both systems are used and trusted by the USGA, so they’re equally worth trying. However, I’d suggest the WHS network for the vast majority of golfers since it’s more precise and updated more often.