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A basement is a common space to put a golf simulator because it’s sheltered, out of the way, and minimizes noise disturbance in the rest of the building.
Whether it’s the basement of a private home or a commercial property, many people can’t afford to invest in a simulator that costs tens thousands of dollars. Fortunately, as golf simulator technology has advanced, more affordable solutions have appeared in the market, so there are options that can accommodate a wide range of budgets.
In the case of a golf simulator for basement use, there are a few things you’ll need to give yourself the best experience: a launch monitor that records your shot data, a hitting net, and optionally, a projector for displaying your shot on a life-size impact screen.
Keeping a simulator in a basement can come with a few unique challenges, particularly if the basement is unfinished, but it’s still very possible to pull off. In this article, we’ll review and compare our picks for the best basement golf simulators over a wide range of different budgets.
Note: Golfstead has tested and/or conducted in-depth research into all of the products featured in this guide. Our editorial process for these rankings takes into account a mix of many factors which may include performance, reliability, usability, value for money, cost, and the general consensus from other users of the product. The list that follows may be reassessed or updated over time.
Our Top Picks For Basement Golf Simulators
The following are our top selections based on our own testing, research, and experience:
- SkyTrak Plus SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
- Carl’s Place EYE MINI Golf Simulator Package
- Uneekor QED SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
- Bushnell Launch Pro Home Golf Simulator Package
- Foresight Sports GCQuad Flex Space Golf Simulator
- FlightScope Mevo Plus PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
- Swing Caddie SC4 Practice Golf Simulator Package
- Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
1. SkyTrak Plus SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
This simulator package earns the #1 spot on our list for a few reasons: it’s powerful at an affordable cost, it features an awesome enclosure that can fit in basements with a ceiling height of 8.5 feet or greater, and the launch monitor only requires a couple of feet in front of the golfer.
This package features the next-generation SkyTrak Plus (ST+) launch monitor. The ST+ makes a number of improvements over the original SkyTrak including the addition of club data, a faster processor, greatly improved outdoor performance, and additional courses in the software. Best of all, no club or ball stickers are needed to measure any data points!
You can count on this outstanding simulator package, designed by The Indoor Golf Shop, to dial in your swing and take your game to the next level.
What Is Included
The SkyTrak+ SIG10 package consists of the SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor and a high-quality SIG10 simulator screen and enclosure (designed by The Indoor Golf Shop) that is handcrafted in the USA.
The ST+ adds a new dual Doppler radar system which combines with an improved photometric camera system and machine-learning software to bring the ST+ to a new level of accuracy and comprehensive data measurement.
Also included are:
- your choice of a hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
- golf simulator projector
- ceiling projector mount
- landing pad turf
- side barrier netting
A nice bonus is that it includes a subscription to the SkyTrak Play & Improve Plan. This is the highest tier plan offered, and it allows you to play 15 world-class World Golf Tour (WGT) golf courses and 15 E6 CONNECT courses in addition to having all other SkyTrak software features.
The projector model included in the package may change based on current supply and other factors. However, it is guaranteed to be minimum HD quality with enough lumens for a bright experience.
The choices for hitting mat are the Fairway Series 5’x5′ (provides realistic feel), SIGPRO 4’x7′ (easy on the joints, allows level unit placement), and SIGPRO 4’x10′ (center hitting strip ideal for left/right hand switching).
You can also install SIG10 Simulator Flooring — a full flooring option that consists of a hitting strip surrounded by a putting green. This is an awesome choice but is pretty expensive.
Room dimensions of 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 16 ft deep are recommended. Get your longest club out (usually driver) and make a backswing to ensure you have enough clearance.
Keep in mind that the original SkyTrak SIG10 package is still very viable because it’s $1000 cheaper and provides all the data parameters needed for a full simulator experience.
For more details about what comes with the package and the steps you need to take, visit this page.
2. Carl’s Place EYE MINI Golf Simulator Package
You can think of the Uneekor EYE MINI as a portable EYE XO with an on-board display. It may not be quite as powerful as the EYE XO in terms of features and data points, but it’s considerably more affordable and its accuracy is practically just as good.
This package, put together by Carl’s Place, pairs the EYE MINI with Carl’s unique C-Series DIY Enclosure available in a range of different sizes. You can select an enclosure with a height as low as 7.7′ which can fit even in low-ceiling basements.
Despite all you’re getting including a high-end launch monitor, swing cameras and a 4K UHD projector, this package remarkably manages to stay under $10,000 in cost. We recommend taking advantage while you still can!
What Is Included
The Carl’s Place EYE MINI simulator package includes:
- a Uneekor EYE MINI launch monitor
- a Carl’s Place C-Series DIY Enclosure with impact screen (six size options)
- a Carl’s HotShot 4’x9′ hitting mat (double-sided)
- a BenQ TK700STi 4K short throw projector
- a projector ceiling mount
- a Carl’s Swing Camera set with optional accessories
The EYE MINI is a portable launch monitor that contains two high-speed infrared cameras and measures an array of ball and club data. It boasts Club Optix technology which allows you to view slow-motion closeups of the club impacting the ball.
The included HotShot Mat — soft, high-quality and durable — has a pre-cut replaceable hitting strip that can be swapped out once sufficiently worn. Carl’s Place sells these hitting strips separately for your convenience.
In conjunction with the Uneekor View software, you can use the swing cameras to analyze your swing from a multitude of different angles. The BenQ projector can output at 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution, but because it’s non-laser, it’s relatively affordable.
The third-party softwares compatible with the EYE MINI are E6 CONNECT, TGC 2019, and GSPro.
To install the setup, you’ll need enough space to fit the enclosure size you choose, mount the projector, and swing your longest club (driver) unimpeded.
This fantastic golf simulator package gives you portability, a wide range of data points, reliability, accuracy, and plenty of features for game improvement and entertainment. For full details on what’s included, go here.
3. Uneekor QED SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
The great thing about this simulator is that it sits at a reasonable price point, the technology is mounted on the ceiling for a hands-off experience, and it features an awesome enclosure that can fit in basements with a ceiling height of 8 feet or greater.
The QED system is very popular and enjoys stellar ratings. It delivers high precision on shots from 10 cm to 435 yards. The included software allows you to play various game modes, practice modes, and skills challenges.
This package gives you everything you need to set up a fantastic studio for a basement, including Rain Or Shine Golf’s SwingBay enclosure and an optional gaming laptop optimized for golf simulation.
What Is Included
The Uneekor QED SwingBay Simulator includes the QED launch monitor along with:
- a SwingBay simulator screen & enclosure
- a full HD short throw projector with high lumens
- a projector floor mount enclosure or ceiling mount (your choice)
- landing pad turf (optional)
- side barrier netting
- a SwingTurf hitting mat (4’x9′ or 5’x5′)
- a gaming laptop optimized for golf simulation (optional)
- The Golf Club 2019 software (optional)
The QED bar houses two high-speed cameras that can record at over 3000 fps, providing real-time club and ball data.
The QED Ignite software features a photographic video playback technology called QED OPTIX, a 3D driving range, fitting data, and a swing motion analysis tool. Upgrades are available that allow to you access additional features within the Ignite software.
In addition, the included TGC 2019 software offers a massive 170,000+ courses to play and even allows you to design your own course.
Minimum room dimensions of 8′ high x 10’6″ wide x 16′ deep are required. This should work for the majority of basements.
Practically everyone who gets the Uneekor QED system ends up very happy with it. Even if you don’t want to pay extra for separate software, the default Ignite software is rock solid and will allow you to get the quality practice you expect out of a premium simulator package.
4. Bushnell Launch Pro Home Golf Simulator Package
The Bushnell Launch Pro allows you to experience the power of the Foresight Sports GC3 at a heavily reduced cost, while only paying for the features you want.
With the initial purchase, you’ll be able to view ball and club data parameters on the LCD display after each shot, depending on whether you get the Ball Data Enabled Unit or the pricier Ball & Club Data Enabled Unit. An optional Gold Subscription unlocks more functionality and allows you to use simulation software with the Launch Pro.
The Launch Pro is widely considered by many in the golfing community to be one of the best bang-for-your-buck home launch monitors on the market. It’s similar in many ways to the EYE MINI above.
And with this package put together by Top Shelf Golf at less than $5000, you get a compact, portable net setup that only requires a space 8’6″ high x 10′ wide x 12′ deep.
What Is Included
This simple package pairs the Bushnell Launch Pro launch monitor (your choice of Ball Only or Ball & Club Data) with equipment from The Net Return including:
- The Net Return Home Series V2 net
- The Net Return Pro Turf hitting mat
The Launch Pro comes with a 14-day free trial to club data (Ball Unit only) and a 14-day trial to the Gold Subscription. A Gold Subscription, which costs $499/yr, unlocks access to 25 courses, sessions, clubs, FSX Pro, FSX Play, Awesome Golf, third-party integrations, and more.
The Home Series Net is smaller than the Pro Series Net, but both have a premium, quality construction and are very durable. They automatically return the ball back to you after each shot, and the Home Series Net can withstand ball speeds up to 200 mph.
Optional customization for this package includes the following:
- You can replace the Pro Turf hitting mat with a Fiberbuilt mat.
- You can replace the Home Series V2 Net with a Pro Series V2 or Pro Series V2 Large Net.
- You can add side barrier netting.
- You can add a “No-Fly Zone” extension above the net.
If you tend to hit a lot of shanks or are concerned that the net may not catch all your shots, we suggest adding universal side barriers to your purchase.
The Launch Pro has been very well-received and is one of our top launch monitor recommendations. Plus, Top Shelf Golf, the maker of this package, has a proven track record with many happy customers.
5. Foresight Sports GCQuad Flex Space Golf Simulator
How would you like to benefit from the best camera-based portable launch monitor on the market used by top coaches and golf pros like Phil Mickelson and Rory McIlroy?
That’s what this simulator package gives you. It comes with the powerful GCQuad Launch Monitor by Foresight Sports, which uses a quadrascopic camera system that is unbeatable in an indoor environment like a basement.
Put together by The Indoor Golf Shop, it comes with a full HomeCourse enclosure and screen that can be retracted with the click of a button, allowing you to quickly create space for storage or for your kids’ play time.
With this simulator setup, you can count on being able to get the most accurate ball flight data so you can dial in your game.
What Is Included
The GCQuad Flex Space Simulator Package consists of the GCQuad launch monitor and:
- HomeCourse ProScreen 180 with ceiling mount kit
- cables and a power adapter
- alignment stick and other accessories
- short throw golf simulator projector
- SIGPRO Turf Mat (6 ft x 10 ft)
- projector floor mount shield enclosure
- FSX 2020 and FSX Play software license
The new and improved HomeCourse ProScreen 180 features side walls made of ballistic material. The Pro Arms can be optionally extended to create an ultra-wide 16:9 projectable area.
The retractable screen is wireless. The motor runs on a chargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts for months at a time, and the motor can be controlled with an included wireless remote.
The screen can be mounted to the ceiling or wall (wall mount kit sold separately). If your ceiling is higher than nine feet, we recommend wall mounting, but you will also have to take into account how finished your basement is.
The SIGPRO Turf mat is ten feet long, allowing for continuous ball return from the screen back to the hitting area. It doubles as a putting green and rolls up and stores like a carpet.
This simulator is compatible with the full Foresight Sports software suite including FSX Pro, FSX 2020 and FSX Play. It also can integrate with third-party solutions E6 CONNECT, GSPro, Awesome Golf, and Creative Golf.
The GCQuad has direct-to-screen output so you can view your numbers without any separate device or software.
Room dimensions of 8.5 ft high x 12 ft wide x 12 ft deep are recommended.
It’s pricey, sure, but it’s a fact that nobody who gets a GCQuad regrets their purchase. It works great for a basement setup because the components are flexible and it doesn’t require space behind you on the target line.
6. FlightScope Mevo Plus PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
Maybe you want a full-fledged simulator setup, but you’re on a bit of a budget and don’t want to pay more than a few thousand dollars for it. If that’s the case, then the Mevo+ PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package is ideal.
This simulator package was put together by Top Shelf Golf and is one of the most affordable full simulator setups (with screen, enclosure, projector, and a quality launch monitor) on the market.
If you’re content with seeing your simulation on a mobile device or PC, you can leave out the projector when ordering this package and save an additional $1000-$2000.
What Is Included
The Mevo+ PerfectBay Simulator uses the versatile Mevo+ 2023 Edition launch monitor which features a number of improvements over the original Mevo+ including PC compatibility. Also included in the base package is:
- a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT for iOS or PC
- a PerfectBay Golf Simulator Enclosure
- The Net Return Pro Turf hitting mat
The PerfectBay enclosure, made in the USA, is five feet deep and has a durable, triple-layer impact screen. The screen does not sag, is designed for 4:3 projection, dampens noise, and is meant to withstand ball speeds up to an impressive 250 mph.
There are many optional upgrades available with this package:
- You can choose a PerfectBay WIDE or larger PerfectBay PLUS enclosure.
- You can purchase software licenses for TGC 2019 or E6 CONNECT.
- You can replace the Pro Turf mat with a Fiberbuilt hitting mat.
- You can choose an Optoma projector.
- You can add a projector floor mount enclosure or ceiling mount.
The Mevo+ PerfectBay Package offers a lot of flexibility for golfers to find the setup that works best for them and that also meets their budget.
Minimum space dimensions of 12 ft wide x 9 ft high x 16 ft deep are required. In this case, the Mevo+ unit requires quite a lot of space in front and behind in order to produce the most accurate readings, so make sure your basement space has the depth.
Top Shelf Golf provides a ton of detail about every aspect of this simulator package here.
7. Swing Caddie SC4 Practice Golf Simulator Package
The Swing Caddie SC4 is the latest and most powerful budget launch monitor by Voice Caddie.
While the SC4 supports golf simulation, it also has an onboard display that allows you to get your numbers without any software. This is a combination that you really only see in the expensive high-end units.
This extremely affordable simulator package by Rain or Shine Golf pairs the SC4 with either the SwingNet Lite or GoSports ELITE hitting net, each of which have their strengths and weaknesses.
What Is Included
The SC4 Practice Package features the Swing Caddie SC4 launch monitor along with your choice of:
- GoSports ELITE Net: 7.5 ft x 7.5 ft, durable steel frame, automatic ball return, can handle shots up to 225 mph
- SwingNet Lite Golf Net: 7 ft x 9 ft, easy assembly, more affordable, hanging hitting target included
Also included in the package are your choice of SwingTurf hitting mat and optional landing pad turf.
The SC4 is a Doppler radar device that measures eight data parameters: carry/total distance, apex height, spin rate, clubhead speed, ball speed, launch angle, smash factor, and launch direction.
The SC4 offers many visualization features within its companion app (iOS or Android), and it also integrates with E6 CONNECT and OptiShot Orion for your benefit. It includes voice output, a barometric pressure sensor, and a remote that enables you to operate the launch monitor from a distance.
The included SwingTurf hitting mat offers an optimal balance between realistic fairway-like feel and forgiveness.
Minimum space requirements for this setup are 8.5 ft high x 9 ft wide x 12 ft deep. The nice thing about the SC4 is that it requires less space behind you than other radar-based launch monitors.
8. Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
The EYE XO is Uneekor’s other golf simulator system aside from the QED and EYE MINI. Many golfers opt for the EYE XO because although it’s more expensive, it’s more powerful, measures the most data points, and doesn’t require marked balls.
Also a ceiling-mounted system, the EYE XO delivers high precision on shots from 10 cm to 435 yards. It comes with some of the best simulator software on the market, and, unlike many other simulators, it handles putting extremely well.
This particular simulator package uses The Indoor Golf Shop’s popular SIG10 enclosure which can fit into most home spaces.
What Is Included
The Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Simulator package was put together by The Indoor Golf Shop and includes:
- the EYE XO bar tracking system with high-speed cameras
- a SIG10 simulator screen & enclosure
- side barrier netting
- a Panasonic PT-VZ580U WUXGA projector
- a ceiling projector mount
- your choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′) or full flooring
The high-speed cameras can track club path, spin, and ball impact at over 3000 fps. Because the EYE XO tracking system is mounted overhead, you can swing freely on your hitting mat without having to worry about hand switching or precise positioning.
The EYE XO uses unmarked ball technology so you can use any ball you want. This is a major improvement over Uneekor’s QED system, in addition to offering more powerful features and additional data parameters.
The included View software has its own cool features such as a swing motion analysis tool and slow-motion videos of your club impact and ball spin. Upgrades to the Refine and Refine+ software are available.
The EYE XO is compatible with third-party solutions The Golf Club 2019, E6 CONNECT, Creative Golf, and GSPro.
A space that’s at least 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 16 ft deep is recommended. For more details about what comes with the package, optional add-ons, pricing, and setup instructions, visit this page.
Buying Guide
Investing in a quality golf simulator for your basement is a big step.
Because of this, it’s important to consider all the factors that will affect the experience and match it with what your goals and requirements are.
Here are the most important factors you need to consider when figuring out what golf simulator will suit you best:
1. Size
Size is obviously a critically important factor in golf simulators. You need to have a clear understanding of the space available in your basement to contain the simulator, and what its dimensions are.
Measure the width, length and height of your space and compare it to the minimum space requirements of every golf simulator you look at. Some golf simulators have quite a large footprint, while others are more compact.
Basements can have limited ceiling height. You’ll need a bare minimum of 8 feet of height for a golf simulator — anything less and you can pretty much forget it. You will need at least 12 feet of depth, but you will need more if you’re using a radar-based launch monitor.
You also have to consider if ceiling or floor joists will get in the way of your setup in an unfinished basement. On the other hand, joists may come in handy if you need to mount an overhead launch monitor like the EYE XO.
2. Retractability
In many cases, a retractable screen is very valuable for basements.
A retractable screen will allow you to make room for other things in a matter of seconds — for example, if you need to set up fitness equipment, create storage space, or set up a play area for kids.
If you need to restore your space back to its original form on demand, we definitely recommend a simulator with retractable functionality.
These kinds of simulators tend to be most useful in garages, but they can also be valuable in basement spaces.
3. Water & Humidity
Because a basement is underground, it can be prone to dampness and humidity. High humidity can damage electronic simulator components such as launch monitors and projectors.
If your basement tends to get humid and you cannot regulate it, your best bet is to have a net setup along with a portable launch monitor like the SkyTrak+, Mevo+ or GCQuad. Your net can be left where it is, and when you’re not playing, you can bring your launch monitor and laptop/tablet upstairs and set up when you want to play again.
However, we strongly recommend using a dehumidifier in your basement to keep the humidity in check. This is common practice, particularly in more humid climates.
Another consideration is moisture. During periods of heavy rain, basements can flood, and this can wreak havoc on golf simulator components sitting on the floor. This is the last thing you want to happen to an $8000 launch monitor.
If there is any chance that your basement might flood during heavy rains, you should consider taking measures to prevent this from happening such as installing a sump pump or waterproofing the basement. If needed, get in touch with a specialist for advice.
Otherwise, it might be a good idea to use a ceiling-mounted golf simulator system such as a Uneekor with a ceiling-mounted projector. This way, you’ll keep sensitive electronic components off the floor where water can accumulate. In this case, also try to keep wires, cords and cables off the ground as much as possible.
4. Simulator Software
You should also consider what kinds of things you want to do, games you want to play, and activities you want to take part in on your golf simulator. There are many software options available.
Using the launch monitors on this page as examples, SkyTrak has software in three membership levels:
- Basic Plan: contains a practice driving range.
- Game-Improvement Plan: contains minigames, numeric display, and many other advanced features.
- Play & Improve Plan: contains all features of other plans plus full integration with WGT (World Golf Tour) and access to 15 E6 CONNECT courses.
Uneekor’s in-house Refine & View software offers full course play and, with advanced features like Club Optix and a swing motion analysis tool, allows you to have information-rich practice sessions and view detailed club and ball data for each shot.
The Mevo+ and SkyTrak+ are compatible with the highly customizable E6 CONNECT software, which offers various course simulations, training aids, minigames, tournaments, and more. There’s also The Golf Club 2019, which not only has your typical practice range, but also numerous multiplayer modes, online tournaments and events, and even the ability to design your own course!
Other software possibilities include FSX, Creative Golf, Fitness Golf, GSPro, and Awesome Golf.
What software features do you see yourself using most often? Do you just want to practice on the range, play world-class courses, or both? Consider what software options are available when looking at simulators, and make your decisions accordingly.
5. Budget
Of course, your budget is very important when shopping for a golf simulator. Not everyone can afford simulator packages that cost $10,000 or more; fortunately, there are great options that cost below this amount.
With that said, it’s important to realize that the less you spend, the less you’ll usually get, both in terms of equipment and software.
In this guide, we’ve tried to include quality golf simulators over a wide range of budgets that could work well in a basement. But the great thing is that you don’t have to drop the full cost of a simulator at once.
Our recommended golf simulator source here provides easy financing options that allow you to pay for your golf simulator over the course of a year or longer. Don’t forget about this option.
Conclusion
Golf simulators have become a lot more accessible and affordable over the past decade, and this means more golfers than ever before have been able to have their own basement setup.
Basements are popular places to house a golf simulator because they’re out of the way and help insulate the noise from the main level of the building.
However, they can also come with challenges, many of which are associated with the basement being unfinished. For example, you may have to deal with flooding or moisture, or you may have to wire the basement before you can even hook up electrical components.
A quality, reliable golf simulator can be a huge boon to your golf toolkit. Finding a simulator package that is suitable for your basement is certainly possible with some research.
Each of the simulator options reviewed above offer excellent value for the cost. We’ve given you the information you need to make a decision; now it’s up to you to go the rest of the way.
While it’s likely that no golf simulator setup will tick every one of your boxes, some will come pretty close to doing so.
Thanks for reading this guide. What golf simulator are you considering for your basement? Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
