8 Best Golf Simulators For The Garage – 2024 Reviews & Buying Guide

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There are many reasons why golfers might want a full golf simulator setup for their garage.

A garage is a common place to put a golf simulator. Many people just don’t have room in the house for it or don’t want to disturb other people living in the house.

Whatever the reasons are, 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 garage use, there are a few things you’ll need to give yourself a great experience: a launch monitor that records your shot data, a hitting net or screen, and optionally, a projector that displays your shot on a life-size screen.

Because keeping a simulator in a garage often comes with challenges such as humidity and sharing space with vehicles, you should also consider simulators that can be retracted and/or disassembled quickly and easily.

In this article, we’ll review and compare our picks for the best garage 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 Golf Simulators For Garage Use

The following are our top selections based on our own testing, research, and experience:

  1. SkyTrak Plus Flex Space Golf Simulator Package
  2. Carl’s EYE MINI Golf Simulator Package
  3. Foresight Sports GCQuad PlayBetter SimStudio Package
  4. Foresight Falcon SIG8 Golf Simulator Package
  5. FlightScope Mevo Plus Training Golf Simulator Package
  6. Uneekor EYE MINI Lite Retractable Golf Simulator Package
  7. TruGolf Vista 10 Golf Simulator
  8. SkyTrak Plus PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package

1. SkyTrak Plus Flex Space Golf Simulator Package

SkyTrak Plus Flex Space Golf Simulator Package

For our #1 pick, we combine the SkyTrak Plus Launch Monitor, an upgrade and modernization to the original SkyTrak, with a retractable screen & enclosure that is ideal for garages.

This versatile screen can be fully retracted at the click of a button, allowing you to quickly create space if you need to pull a car into the garage. The package was put together by The Indoor Golf Shop, one of the best sources of golf simulator equipment out there today.

This simulator comes with everything you need to improve your game and have a blast with friends and family, whatever the weather conditions are outside.

What Is Included

The SkyTrak Plus Flex Space Simulator Package comes with:

  • SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor with protective case
  • SkyTrak Play & Improve software (upgrade from base)
  • G-TRAK Retractable Impact Screen
  • short throw golf simulator projector with ceiling mount
  • SIGPRO landing turf (6 ft x 10 ft)
  • your choice of hitting mat (4’x7′, 4’x10′ or 5’x5′)

The SkyTrak+ launch monitor allows you to practice on a virtual driving range, hit at simulated targets, play minigames and challenges, and play world-class courses. It’s faster and more accurate than the original model and now also measures club data thanks to a new dual Doppler radar.

With the included Play & Improve software, you get access to 15 world-class WGT (World Golf Tour) golf courses and 15 E6 CONNECT courses in addition to having all other SkyTrak software features. Various third party solutions can be integrated at extra cost.

The G-TRAK screen connects to the tracks of your garage door with a patented bracket system. The screen included in the package is 10 ft wide and is designed for a 16 ft garage door width, but a variety of different sizes are available if this doesn’t work for you.

Multisport targets can also be used with the G-TRAK, and side and top netting create a shallow enclosure for catching shots. These net sections can be extended out after pressing a handset button to unroll the screen.

Garage space dimensions of 9 ft high x 20 ft wide x 15 ft deep are recommended, but these numbers can change depending on the size of G-TRAK that you get.

Customers love the straightforward installation and how painless taking down the simulator is. For more details about what comes with the simulator, how exactly to set it up, and more, visit this page.


2. Carl’s EYE MINI Golf Simulator Package

Carl's Place EYE MINI 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. Plus, its portability means you can take it out of the garage whenever needed.

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 to accommodate your garage space.

In spite of 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 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. Foresight Sports GCQuad PlayBetter SimStudio Package

Foresight Sports GCQuad PlayBetter SimStudio Package

How would you like to benefit from the best camera-based portable launch monitor on the market used by top coaches and pro golfers 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 a quasi-indoor environment like a garage.

Put together by reputable sports vendor PlayBetter, it includes their affordable full-screen SimStudio enclosure for the ultimate power setup. You can count on it being able to give you the most accurate ball flight data so you can dial in your game.

What Is Included

The GCQuad PlayBetter SimStudio Package pairs the GCQuad Launch Monitor with:

  • a PlayBetter SimStudio full hitting bay (four sizes available)
  • an HD golf simulator projector (model may change)
  • a projector mounting bracket
  • the FSX software suite including FSX 2020 and FSX Play
  • a ball tray

The SimStudio consists of a noise-dampening impact screen, full enclosure with blackout walls, 5’x5′ hitting mat, side barrier netting, and landing pad turf that can double as a putting surface. We’re impressed with the quality of all of the components.

The GCQuad has direct-to-screen output so you can view your numbers without any separate device or software. It also integrates with the full Foresight Sports software suite including FSX 2020, FSX Play, FSX Pro, and Foresight Fairgrounds.

Room dimensions of at least 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 16 ft deep are recommended.

This simulator is really affordable considering what you’re getting. The GCQuad itself is pricey, sure, but when you get your hands on it, you don’t regret it. It works great for a garage setup because it doesn’t require space behind you on the target line.


4. Foresight Falcon SIG8 Golf Simulator Package

Foresight Falcon SIG8 Golf Simulator Package

The Foresight Falcon is a more compact and economical version of Foresight Sports’ GCHawk, which is arguably the most powerful overhead-mounted system out there today.

For most people, the Falcon is certainly the better option as it uses the same technology, measures the same data points, and has a slightly larger hitting area while costing $5000 less.

If you’re looking for a more permanent setup for your garage, this simulator package is fantastic option. It pairs the Falcon with The Indoor Golf Shop’s compact SIG8 enclosure which should be able to fit in most garage spaces.

What Is Included

The Foresight Falcon SIG10 package was created by The Indoor Golf Shop. It includes the Foresight Falcon launch monitor along with:

  • a SIG8 simulator screen & enclosure
  • a WUXGA (1920×1200) 6000-lumens projector
  • a ceiling projector mount
  • landing pad turf
  • your choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′) or full flooring
  • FSX software

The Foresight Falcon is marked by quadrascopic high-speed camera technology (the same tech found in the GCQuad and GCHawk), a compact form factor, and easy installation. One thing to note is that it lacks the multi-sport functionality of the GCHawk, but if you only plan to play golf, it’s a non-issue.

This simulator is compatible with the full Foresight Sports software suite including FSX Pro, FSX 2020 and FSX Play. Between these three pieces of software, you have a ton of game modes and features at your fingertips. The Falcon can integrate with third-party solutions E6 CONNECT, GSPro, Awesome Golf, and Creative Golf.

The high-end projector included with this package outputs high resolution, and the outstanding 6000 lumens ensures a bright and vibrant image on the screen.

Space dimensions of 10 ft high x 12 ft wide x 16 ft deep are recommended for this setup.

Many people seek the most accurate and powerful overhead launch monitor money can buy but are turned off by the GCHawk’s high price tag. In such a case, the Falcon is what you want to look at. Just make sure you have your power outlets and computers sorted out for the garage.


5. FlightScope Mevo Plus Training Golf Simulator Package

FlightScope Mevo Plus Training Simulator Package 2.0

Maybe you’re looking for an alternative to the SkyTrak+ that’s also a little more affordable. In that case, you should consider this FlightScope Mevo Plus Training Simulator Package, put together by The Indoor Golf Shop.

The Mevo Plus (or Mevo+) launch monitor packs the latest cutting-edge technologies and performance features, giving you a large number of data points and plenty of apps and software.

What’s great about this package is that it uses a net instead of a projector/screen setup, saving you a significant amount of money. You simply view your data and simulation on your PC or mobile device.

What Is Included

This package takes the Mevo Plus 2023 Edition launch monitor (with charger and carrying pouch) and pairs it with a high-quality SIGPRO golf net. Also included are:

  • SIGPRO Turf (6 ft x 10 ft)
  • side barrier netting with sandbags
  • your choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)

The affordable SIGPRO hitting net catches golf balls quietly and softly, is easy to assemble, and has a collapsible design. It can safely handle ball speeds of up to 225 mph. Plus, The Indoor Golf Shop designed the SIGPRO net to easily integrate with their SIG Preferred Impact Screen which attaches to a top crossbar (purchased as a separate add-on).

The Mevo+ integrates with E6 CONNECT software, in addition to free FlightScope apps. The simulator comes with a trimmed version of E6 for iOS or PC that includes ten courses and seventeen practice ranges.

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).

A space that is at least 8.5 ft high x 10 ft wide x 16 ft deep is recommended for this setup. For best results, the Mevo Plus should be placed 8 feet behind the ball on your target line, and a minimum of 8 feet of ball flight is needed to accurately record data.

Mevo Plus users love the value you get for the money: excellent accuracy, great software, convenience, and great customer support.


6. Uneekor EYE MINI Lite Retractable Golf Simulator Package

Uneekor EYE MINI Lite Retractable Golf Simulator Package

The EYE MINI Lite uses the same fundamental tracking technology of its bigger brother, the EYE MINI.

However, because it lacks an onboard display, must be connected to a power source at all times, and lacks some other features, it can be priced at under $3000, bringing it within reach of many more golfers.

This turnkey package by Rain or Shine Golf pairs the EYE MINI Lite with a fully retractable HomeCourse screen, which is ideal for garages where you need to quickly create space such as for vehicles.

What Is Included

The EYE MINI Lite Retractable Simulator includes the EYE MINI Lite system along with:

  • a HomeCourse ProScreen 180 with ceiling mount kit
  • a full HD (1080p) short throw projector with high lumens
  • a projector ceiling mount or floor mount enclosure (your choice)
  • a SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x5′ or 9’x4′)
  • landing pad turf (optional)
  • a gaming laptop optimized for golf simulation (optional)

Like the EYE MINI, the EYE MINI Lite boasts dual high-speed infrared cameras, Club Optix, and all the other benefits that can be accessed via the Uneekor View software. It delivers the same power, accuracy, and data points of the EYE MINI at just 60% of the cost.

The system is compatible with E6 CONNECT, TGC 2019, and GSPro, but you’ll need Uneekor’s Pro or Champion package to unlock third-party connectivity. These packages also unlock more profiles and sessions and give you access to Uneekor’s Refine+ software.

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, and the retractable screen’s motor can be controlled with an included wireless remote.

The included SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x4′) was designed by Rain or Shine Golf to provide an optimal balance between realistic fairway feel and forgiveness. An upgrade to a larger 9’x4′ SwingTurf mat is available.

Minimum space requirements for this setup are 8.5 ft high x 11 ft wide x 16 ft deep, plus room to swing your longest club.

A major disadvantage of the EYE MINI Lite is that it’s basically only usable indoors and has no Wi-Fi capability. Fortunately, an electrical outlet is all you need to get it working smoothly.


7. TruGolf Vista 10 Golf Simulator

TruGolf Vista 10 Golf Simulator - Base Setup

Perhaps you want an all-in-one “sim-in-a-box” without having to mix and match different components. In that case, you should look at the Vista 10, which is the middle entry in TruGolf’s Vista Series.

It’s a “plug-and-play” simulator defined by high-definition image quality, a cutting-edge tension system, enhanced swing analysis capabilities, and portability with easy installation.

The Vista simulators can be easily adapted to various environments including garages, and they can also be taken down relatively easily if need be.

TruGolf is a reputable maker of simulators, and their team of developers and golf pros are highly respected.

What Is Included

The Vista 10 simulator features a high-quality studio with fairway turf and a deep enclosure. Included is:

  • an HD 720p Vista projector and screen
  • a 21″ Touch Screen Monitor & TruGolf Level 1 Computer
  • the TruTrack2 system, which captures important shot data using multiple optical sensors
  • premium fairway turf
  • a 1-year subscription to E6 CONNECT
  • a 1-year limited warranty

The Vista 10 is offered in Base and Pro versions. The Base version includes the above items, while the Pro version includes a Level 2 Computer, portable speaker, component rack, protective side nets, and a frame storage duffel bag.

In addition, you can integrate the TruGolf Multisport Interactive Sports Camera with the Vista 10. This provides an array of world-class sports arcade games and is capable of tracking the movements of soccer balls, hockey pucks, baseballs, and more.

The minimum space requirements are 10 ft high x 15 ft wide x 20 ft deep.

The tracking system, in particular, is a unique system built by TruGolf. For more details about what comes with the simulator, specifications, etc, visit this page.


8. SkyTrak Plus PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package

SkyTrak Plus PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package

Interested in the SkyTrak Plus but are looking for a more permanent, full-size enclosure setup instead of a retractable screen?

Then check this out. Assembled by Top Shelf Golf, a reputable online vendor for golf equipment, this package pairs the SkyTrak Plus with their triple-layer PerfectBay enclosure, which is made in the USA.

This kind of setup is ideal if you don’t need to be able to quickly repurpose your garage space for vehicles or other things.

What Is Included

The SkyTrak+ PerfectBay Simulator consists of the SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor and, in the base package:

  • a basic driving range software plan
  • a PerfectBay Golf Simulator Enclosure
  • The Net Return Pro Turf
  • side netting

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.

The Pro Turf mat is ten feet long and provides 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.

There are many optional upgrades available with this package:

  1. You can choose a larger PerfectBay PLUS or wider PerfectBay WIDE enclosure.
  2. You can purchase an upgraded SkyTrak software plan.
  3. You can replace the Pro Turf mat with a Fiberbuilt hitting mat.
  4. You can add an Optoma projector.
  5. You can add a projector floor mount enclosure or ceiling mount.
  6. You can add a protective case for the ST+.

Because there is so much room to upgrade, golfers can easily find the optimal setup that works for them and that meets their budget. Space dimensions of at least 12 ft wide x 9 ft high x 16 ft deep are recommended.

Top Shelf Golf has a proven track record with many happy customers. They provide a ton of detail about every aspect of this simulator here.


Buying Guide

Investing in a quality golf simulator for your garage 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 be best for your garage:

1. Retractability

Retractable Golf Simulator Screen

In many situations, the most important feature for a garage 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 pull your car into the garage or set up a temporary workshop for projects.

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 can be used in other settings as well, but they tend to be especially useful in garages. This is why many of the simulator packages we review above have retractable screens.

2. Temperature & Humidity

Temperature thermometers graphic

This is a variable that is unique to garage simulators. Because most garages are not climate-controlled like the interior of a home, they are vulnerable to temperature and humidity changes outdoors. This means that if it gets really cold out (say, -5°C or below), gets really hot out, or the humidity rises, so will your garage.

Extreme temperatures can damage electronic components like projectors and simulator tracking systems, and in our experience, high humidity is even more dangerous to simulator components.

There are a few thing you can do in this regard.

If you want to avoid having to regulate the temperature or humidity of your garage, your best bet is to have a net setup along with a portable launch monitor like the SkyTrak+, Mevo+, EYE MINI, or GCQuad. Your net can be left where it is, and when you’re not playing, you can bring your launch monitor, laptop/tablet, and even your hitting mat inside, and set up again when the humidity is at an acceptable level.

Humidity is very important to watch out for. This is why, if your location is susceptible to high humidity, we recommend using a dehumidifier when playing in the garage, although this can introduce extra background noise.

Beyond this, you might consider installing a mini-split to heat and cool your garage as needed, or if you only experience high temperatures, you could set up an AC unit.

The bottom line is that dehumidifiers, AC units or heaters may be essential depending on where you live and whether or not you have a fixed setup like a QED or EYE XO.

3. Size

White Measuring Tape

Size is obviously a critically important factor in golf simulators. You need to have a clear understanding of the space available in your garage 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.

If you’re using a projector, also consider how far away you’ll be mounting it from the screen to produce the image you want, and factor that into the depth of your space.

In general, full golf simulator setups tend to need about 9 feet of height, 12 feet of width and 15 feet of depth, but there are more compact options. Your garage space should be able to accommodate this.

4. Net Vs. Screen

Netting Closeup

As you probably know, there are generally two options when it comes to golf simulators:

  1. You can project your shots onto a life-size impact screen.
  2. You can hit into a net or screen without a projector, but still be able to view your shot data and see the ball flight on your connected computer or mobile device.

Most of the simulators reviewed on this page use a screen and projector. If you want to save money, you can opt for just a net.

Not only are net setups considerably cheaper, but nets are also very portable and can easily be moved out of the way to create more space in your garage.

If the full golf simulator experience is important to you and you want to feel like you’re playing a real-life simulation, then you’ll probably want to invest in a screen and projector setup.

On the other hand, if you’re satisfied with seeing your shot data and ball flight on a PC or mobile device, then you should go with a net.

5. Simulator Software

E6 CONNECT Logo

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.

For example, SkyTrak comes with in-house software that allows you to practice on the range and take part in competitions like long drive and closest to the pin. One of their packages unlocks access to WGT, which allows you to play world-class courses.

Foresight Sports’ in-house FSX software allows you to play skills challenges and many of the world’s best courses on their line of launch monitors including the Foresight Falcon.

Some of the best third-party simulator software solutions out there include:

  • E6 CONNECT: highly customizable software that offers various course simulations, minigames, training aids, tournaments, and more.
  • GSPro: boasts ultra-realistic physics and graphics and offers practice, full course play, virtual online tours, and the ability to design your own course and make it available to the community as a free download.
  • The Golf Club 2019: has 4K resolution support and offers a ton of golf courses, live tours and tournaments, as well as a tool that allows you to build your own golf courses.
  • Ignite/View, Refine and Refine+ (formerly Succeed): Uneekor’s in-house software that provides a 3D driving range, various practice modes, course modes, game modes, and more.

Creative Golf and Awesome Golf place more of a focus on fun, kid-friendly entertainment with quirky minigames in addition to standard course play.

What software features do you see yourself using most often? Consider what software options are available when looking at simulators, and make your decisions accordingly.

6. Budget

Money bag

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 options that cost well 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 would work well in a garage. 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 garage setup.

Garages are popular places to house a golf simulator because they’re out of the way and keep noise out of the house, but a major drawback is having to deal with extreme temperatures and humidity.

A quality, reliable golf simulator can be a huge boon to your golf toolkit. Finding a simulator package that is suitable for your garage 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.

We highly recommend reading consumer and professional reviews of golf simulators to acquire useful insights as to how they actually perform. This will help you a lot in the decision-making process.


Thanks for reading this guide. What golf simulator are you considering for your garage? Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment below.

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4 Comments

  1. Ricky ticky tembo May 28, 2021
    • Paul May 28, 2021
  2. Rick Savold January 21, 2024
    • Paul January 21, 2024

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