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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.
We at Golfstead have tested and/or conducted in-depth research into all of these golf simulators. Some offer less features than others, but they all give an excellent experience for the cost.
Our Top Picks For Basement Golf Simulators
The following are our top selections based on our own testing, research, and experience:
- Uneekor QED SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
- SkyTrak Home Series Golf Simulator Package
- SkyTrak SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
- Foresight Sports GCQuad Flex Space Golf Simulator
- FlightScope Mevo Plus PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
- Uneekor EYE XO SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
1. Uneekor QED SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
This simulator package earns the #1 spot on our list for a few reasons: it’s powerful 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 8.5 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 particular package was put together by The Indoor Golf Shop and uses their popular, high-quality SIG10 enclosure.
What Is Included
The Uneekor QED SIG10 Simulator includes the QED launch monitor along with:
- a SIG10 simulator screen & enclosure
- a Panasonic PT-VZ580U WUXGA projector
- ceiling projector mount
- landing turf & side barrier netting
- a choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
- two dozen non-branded marked balls
The QED bar, which is mounted overhead, houses two high-speed cameras that can record at over 3000 fps, providing real-time club and ball data.
Next is the included software, QED Ignite, which 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.
The QED is compatible with E6 CONNECT, TGC 2019, Creative Golf 3D, and GSPro.
Room dimensions of 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 18 ft deep are recommended.
Practically everyone who gets the Uneekor QED system ends up very happy with it. Because it’s mounted slightly behind the golfer, it makes it much less likely that it will be struck by rogue balls.
2. SkyTrak Home Series Golf Simulator Package
This simulator pairs arguably the best value launch monitor and simulator, the SkyTrak, with a high-quality hitting net that can withstand ball speeds up to 200 mph.
This net setup is ideal if your basement doesn’t have finished walls or a finished ceiling and you want it to just sit on the ground. It’s an affordable package (less than $5000) that was put together by Top Shelf Golf, a great online source for golf simulator equipment.
The package features the highly accurate but affordable SkyTrak Launch Monitor, which allows you to practice on a virtual driving range, hit at simulated targets, play minigames and challenges, and play world-class courses.
Another thing that makes this simulator great for a basement is the light weight and ease of assembly, so it can be put away or moved as needed.
What Is Included
This simple package pairs the SkyTrak Launch Monitor with equipment from The Net Return including:
- The Net Return Home Series V2 net (or optional upgrade to Pro Series V2 net)
- The Net Return Pro Turf hitting mat (optional upgrades to Fiberbuilt mats)
Also included is the Basic Practice Plan for the SkyTrak which allows you to practice and analyze your data on a virtual 3D driving range. An upgrade to the Game Improvement Plan is available which unlocks a host of additional features and allows you to integrate various third-party simulator software.
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.
Minimum room dimensions are 8.5 ft high x 10 ft wide x 12 ft deep. 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.
People really love the quality and affordability, as well as the fact that it’s less complex to work with than a projector setup. For more details about what comes with the package and the optional add-ons available to you, visit this page.
3. SkyTrak SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
Perfect for a finished basement, the SkyTrak SwingBay Package pairs the SkyTrak with Rain or Shine Golf’s large SwingBay enclosure system.
When golfers look into full-priced golf simulators, many get overwhelmed with learning how everything works and how to set everything up. This simulator package was designed specifically for that.
This SkyTrak SwingBay simulator can be considered Rain or Shine Golf’s flagship product. It has been received very well by customers and currently has a perfect 5-star average rating.
What Is Included
The SwingBay package consists of the SkyTrak Launch Monitor and a high-quality SwingBay simulator screen and enclosure (sold exclusively by Rain or Shine Golf) that is easy to assemble.
Also included are:
- your choice of a SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x5′ or 4’x9′)
- a full HD short throw projector with high lumens
- a projector ceiling mount or floor mount enclosure (your choice)
- landing pad turf (optional)
- side barrier netting
This package includes a 1-year subscription to the SkyTrak Game Improvement Plan, which is a major step up from the starter (free) plan.
You can optionally include a gaming laptop with the package. This contains a fast processor and powerful graphics card, allowing golf simulator software to be run smoothly with no freezing or lagging.
Room dimensions of 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 16 ft deep are recommended.
This simulator is an excellent choice for golfers who want a screen/projector setup but need to buy a PC to run simulator software, since it can be added to the package with one click. For more details about what comes with the package, frequently asked questions, and bare minimum space requirements, go here.
4. 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.
The GCQuad is compatible with the full Foresight Sports software suite including FSX 2020, FSX Play, E6 CONNECT and Creative Golf 3D. It 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.
5. 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 Mevo+ 2023 Edition launch monitor, which is comparable to the SkyTrak but is much newer and can be used outdoors if desired. 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 has a proven track record with many happy customers. They provide a ton of detail about every aspect of this simulator package here.
6. Uneekor EYE XO SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
The EYE XO is Uneekor’s other golf simulator system aside from the QED. Many golfers opt for the EYE XO because although it’s a couple thousand dollars more expensive, it’s more powerful 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 package was put together by Rain or Shine Golf and uses their loaded SwingBay enclosure. It gives you everything you need to enjoy the ultimate golf simulator studio, including a optional gaming laptop configured for running software smoothly.
What Is Included
The Uneekor EYE XO SwingBay Simulator Package consists of the EYE XO bar (positioned above and slightly forward), as well as:
- a SwingBay enclosure and screen system
- a full HD short throw projector with high lumens
- a projector floor enclosure or ceiling mount (your choice)
- landing pad turf (optional)
- side barrier netting
- a 5’x5′ or 4’x9′ SwingTurf hitting mat (your choice)
- a gaming laptop for running software (optional)
Compared to the QED launch monitor, the EYE XO measures six extra data parameters and gives a more detailed OPTIX analysis.
As with other simulator packages that Rain or Shine Golf offers, you have the option of including a gaming laptop with laptop stand, laptop sleeve and mousepad. You can also opt for a ceiling projector mount instead of a floor mount.
The EYE XO comes with View software. Upgrades are available (Refine and Refine+) that allow to you access additional features such as full course play.
Room dimensions of 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 16 ft deep are recommended.
Even if you don’t want to pay extra for separate software, the default View software is rock solid and will allow you to get the practice and entertainment you expect out of a premium simulator package.
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, the most important feature for a basement golf simulator is a retractable screen.
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).
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. They’re also compatible with 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 3D, 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; fortunately, there are good 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.
