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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 for wanting a garage setup, 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:
- SkyTrak Plus Garage Golf Simulator Package
- Carl’s EYE MINI Golf Simulator Package
- Foresight Sports GCQuad PlayBetter SimStudio Package
- Foresight Falcon SIG8 Golf Simulator Package
- Carl’s SkyTrak Plus HomeLinks Golf Simulator Package
- Uneekor EYE MINI LITE Garage Golf Simulator Package
- Carl’s Trackman iO Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope Mevo Plus Golf Net Practice Bundle
Note: Prices for the items listed on this page are subject to change. To see the current price, please click on the relevant links below.
1. SkyTrak Plus Garage 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 designed 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 created 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 turn a garage space into a golf simulator studio so that you can improve your game or have fun with friends and family, whatever the weather conditions are outside.
What Is Included
The SkyTrak Plus Garage Golf Simulator Package comes with:
- a SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor
- the SkyTrak Essential Plan
- a G-TRAK Retractable Impact Screen
- a short throw golf simulator projector
- SIGPRO landing turf (6 ft x 10 ft)
- a premium hitting mat (optional)
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.
The package includes a subscription to the SkyTrak Essential Plan which gives you access to all available training and feedback tools, an enhanced driving range, and compatibility for Course Play powered by Trackman or Foresight Sports. Course Play and accessory upgrades can optionally be added to your final purchase.
The G-TRAK screen connects to the tracks of your garage door with a patented bracket system. Size options for the screen range from 7′ to 14′, each of which is meant for a different garage door width. For example, the 10 ft wide screen is designed for a 16 ft garage door width.
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.
The included SIGPRO turf can be used as a hitting mat, but for an enhanced experience, you can optionally add a premium hitting mat and use the SIGPRO as landing pad turf.
Garage space dimensions of 9 ft high x 20 ft wide x 15 ft deep are recommended, but the requirements 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
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 TK710STi 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. You can also use the launch monitor with Uneekor’s new GameDay software.
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
How would you like to benefit from one of the best camera-based portable launch monitors 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 (three 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.
Also included with the GCQuad is the Bushnell Pro X3+LINK laser rangefinder which can integrate with the launch monitor data to provide real-time, personalized club recommendations and enhanced course management insights during real rounds out on the golf course.
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 perfectly for a garage setup because it doesn’t require space behind you on the target line.
4. 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 SIG8 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 (4’x5′ or 4’x7′)
- 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 included SIGPRO Commercial Teeline hitting mat not only has a thick rubber base for stability and durability, but it’s also designed to accommodate the large hitting zone of the Falcon.
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 at least 9 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. Carl’s SkyTrak Plus HomeLinks 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 Carl’s Place, which has been in business since 2006 and has grown to be one of the most trusted indoor golf destinations in the USA, this package pairs the SkyTrak Plus with their high-quality DIY studio setup.
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 Carl’s ST+ HomeLinks package includes:
- a SkyTrak+ launch monitor (with protective case)
- a Carl’s Place C-Series DIY Enclosure with impact screen (six size options)
- a Carl’s HotShot 4’x5′ hitting mat
- a BenQ TH671ST 1080p short throw projector
- a projector ceiling mount
- a 1-year subscription to the SkyTrak Essential Membership (optional)
The C-Series enclosure is unique compared to other enclosures because the impact screen sits flush with the floor, providing a seamless transition from turf to screen.
The BenQ TH671ST projector outputs at 3000 lumens in 1080p with a 10,000:1 contrast ratio, which is not too shabby at all.
Also included in the package is a protective shield for the ST+ which protects the launch monitor from wayward balls.
You can get the package without the Essential Membership, but you’ll only have access to the SkyTrak Practice Range with a ball tracer.
Carl’s Place recommends space dimensions of 9 ft high x 14 ft wide x 18 ft deep, but as long as you can swing your longest club comfortably and unobstructed, you should be good to go. For full details on this package, go here.
6. Uneekor EYE MINI LITE Garage 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 package by The Indoor Golf Shop pairs the EYE MINI LITE with their fully retractable G-TRAK screen designed specifically for garage setups.
What Is Included
The EYE MINI LITE Garage Simulator includes the EYE MINI LITE system along with:
- a G-TRAK Retractable Impact Screen (six size options)
- an HD short throw projector with high lumens
- SIGPRO 6’x10′ landing pad turf
- a SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x5′ or 9’x4′)
- your choice of premium golf mat (optional, 10+ options)
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, Champion or Ultimate package to unlock third-party connectivity. These packages also unlock more profiles and sessions and give you access to Uneekor’s Refine+ and GameDay software.
The G-TRAK screen is easy to assemble. It can attach multisport targets and be operated with an included remote control.
Possible choices for the hitting mat include the SIGPRO Softy, Softy Lite, and Super Softy, each of which are available in multiple sizes. We suggest the Softy 4’x7′ for typical personal use.
Note that if you want a projector mount (floor or ceiling), it must be added to the package as an add-on at extra cost.
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. Carl’s Trackman iO Golf Simulator Package
Brought to you by arguably the most prestigious brand in the golf launch monitor space, the iO (‘indoor-optimized’) is Trackman’s cutting-edge solution for indoor golf.
It can also be a fantastic choice for a garage as long as the area doesn’t experience extreme temperature or humidity swings and the system stays within its safe operating range.
The iO is similar in many ways to the Trackman 4 portable launch monitor, but it’s mounted overhead for a hands-off experience that allows for seamless hand switching.
This package by Carl’s Place, ideal for larger garages, is a powerhouse that boasts a commercial-grade enclosure and cutting-edge 4K projector for unparalleled image quality.
What Is Included
The Carl’s Trackman iO Package consists of:
- a Trackman iO launch monitor (Home or Home Complete edition)
- a Pro Golf C-Series Enclosure with Impact Screen (three size options)
- a Fiberbuilt 6’x9′ Grass Series hitting mat (double-sided)
- a BenQ LK936ST 4K laser short throw projector
- a projector ceiling mount
The Trackman iO launch monitor uses a combination of high-speed imaging, radar, and infrared tracking to measure a wide range of ball and club data, including spin axis and 3D spin.
The launch monitor is currently offered in three versions: Home, Home Complete, and Commercial. All provide access to the included Trackman Performance Software, but the latter two unlock more club data as well as more courses and games within the software.
The included Pro Golf Enclosure isn’t just any typical enclosure. This strong, high-quality, deep enclosure is designed for commercial applications or high-end home setups and allows for mounting the projector directly to the frame. In addition, the screen has a unique borderless bottom for a seamless look.
The BenQ LK936ST projector, designed with golf simulation in mind, can output at 4K UHD resolution at 5100 lumens and an impressive 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio.
A space of at least 10 ft high x 14 ft wide x 18 ft deep is recommended for this setup, although you can order a custom enclosure size if needed.
The iO and companion software are expensive, but the high-end nature of the system, lack of lighting requirements, and advanced tracking technology make it a very attractive ceiling-mounted option for those who can afford it.
For full details on what’s included, check out this page.
8. FlightScope Mevo Plus Golf Net Practice Bundle
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+ net bundle, 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 2024 Edition launch monitor (with charger and carrying pouch) and pairs it with your choice of golf net. Net options include rectangle or round nets or the high-quality SIGPRO net with or without an attached impact screen.
You can also add SIGPRO Turf (6 ft x 10 ft) or one of The Indoor Golf Shop’s premium hitting mats, available in a range of sizes, to the package.
The affordable SIGPRO net, one of the net options, 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 twelve courses and seventeen practice ranges.
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.
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
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
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 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 Trackman iO or EYE XO.
3. Size
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
As you probably know, there are generally two options when it comes to golf simulators:
- You can project your shots onto a life-size impact screen.
- 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
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. 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.
- 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
Of course, your budget is very important when shopping for a golf simulator. Not everyone can afford simulator packages that run in the five figures; 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 potentially having to deal with temperature 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.
You’ve got to try TruGolf Simulators. I have a TruFlight 2 Camera system. It works flawlessly. Skytrak is terrible, same with optishot and the mevo. The only decent one is the gc2 or quad. I feel like you didn’t do your research. The size of room you need is not the dimensions you list. Minimum dimensions are 12’ wide 9’3” tall (even that might be tight) and 16’ deep (even that might be tight). The dimensions you listed would be for anyone under 5’0”.
If you were only talking about pure performance and accuracy without any consideration for cost, you might be right. In that case, you may as well just get the Full Swing Pro Series and call it a day. But cost is obviously a big deal for most people, so we have included great sims over a range of budgets. I don’t agree that the SkyTrak and Mevo+ are terrible; they are excellent given their affordable prices. We recommend the OptiShot system for entertainment rather than serious practice; the appeal there is the fact that full simulator systems with the OptiShot are relatively low-cost.
As for the dimensions, these are specifically what is given by the vendor. This is why we say that in addition to the size of the simulator, you should always make sure that you can swing your longest club unimpeded. It’s true that in many cases, you’ll need quite a bit more space than what is listed.
I also agree that TruGolf makes really great simulator studios, and we feature them (the Vista Series in particular) in many of our simulator buying guides. But we didn’t include any here because we wanted to focus on retractable screens and nets for garages.
Thanks for your comment!
My shop is 24 wide 48 long and 16 foot high what would you recommend
That’s plenty big for pretty much any setup you want. My recommendation would depend on what your budget is and the tier of launch monitor you want. One thing to keep in mind is that if you go with a ceiling-mounted system like the EYE XO, you may need to get creative because it needs to be mounted 9-10 feet from the ground, so you’ll need a drop from that ceiling height you gave.