10 Best Golf Simulators For Home – 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide

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Many people dream of having a full golf simulator setup in their home, so they can play their favourite golf courses or practice on the range day or night, rain or shine, any time of the year.

Of course, not everyone can afford to invest in a simulator that costs tens of 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 in the home, there are a few things you’ll need to give yourself a great experience: a launch monitor that records your shot data, a hitting screen or net, and a projector that simulates your shots.

Projectors aren’t required, but unless you’re content with just seeing your shot data and ball flight simulation on your device’s display, it’s a good idea to use one. You also need enough clearance to swing your longest club.

In this article, we’ll review and compare our picks for the best home golf simulators across 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 is based on a mix of many different factors. A subset of important criteria with their corresponding scores are given for each product, but to keep things simple, not all criteria is given. The list that follows may be reassessed or updated over time.


Our Top Picks For Golf Simulators For The Home

Based on our own testing, research, and experience, the following are our top picks for the best golf simulators for home use:

  1. SkyTrak Plus SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
  2. Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
  3. Bushnell Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package
  4. Carl’s Place QED Golf Simulator Package
  5. FlightScope Mevo Plus SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
  6. SkyTrak Home Golf Simulator Package
  7. SwingLogic SLX MicroSim Home Golf Simulator
  8. Uneekor EYE MINI SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
  9. Foresight Sports GCQuad SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
  10. TruGolf Vista 8 Golf Simulator

1. SkyTrak Plus SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

SkyTrak Plus (ST+) SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

Budget: Mid-high (around $11,000+)

This simulator ranks #1 because it performed well across all of our rating criteria. Some sample criteria is included below along with their scores.

This simulator package, offered exclusively by The Indoor Golf Shop, is ideal for those who want to spend four figures or less, who want the best value for the money, and who have enough space to accommodate a slightly larger setup.

It uses the next generation of the SkyTrak, the SkyTrak Plus (ST+) launch monitor, which we think is the best value system for home use.

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!

With this fantastic simulator setup, you can count on being able 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′)
  • a golf simulator projector
  • landing pad turf
  • a ceiling projector mount
  • side barrier netting

One thing that sets this SkyTrak+ package apart from others is that it includes a subscription to the SkyTrak Play & Improve Plan. This is the highest level plan offered, and it allows you to play 15 world-class WGT (World Golf Tour) golf courses and 15 E6 CONNECT courses in addition to having all other SkyTrak software features.

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 sure you can make a full swing unimpeded.

We love this simulator package for home use because the studio is well-made with great aesthetics, and the ST+ launch monitor offers an unbelievable amount of value for the price.

However, the original SkyTrak SIG10 package, which used to be featured here, is still very viable because it’s $1000 cheaper and still provides all the data parameters needed for a full simulator experience.

For more details about what comes with the package and the setup steps you need to take, visit this page.

Power & Accuracy: 92/100
Data Parameters: 94/100
Software Compatibility: 94/100


2. Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

Budget: High (around $21,000+)

In our opinion, the EYE XO is basically the dream home golf simulator for anyone with a mid-high budget who wants to take it a step above the SkyTrak+.

The EYE XO system has been incredibly well-received by golfers. It is considered on par with the top professional systems on the market yet is at a more affordable price point.

This particular simulator package uses The Indoor Golf Shop’s popular SIG10 enclosure which can fit into most home spaces, and the EYE XO tracking system is mounted on the ceiling for a hands-off experience.

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 videos of your club impact and ball spin. Upgrades are available to access additional features. EYE XO is compatible with The Golf Club 2019, E6 CONNECT, Creative Golf, and GSPro.

Room dimensions of at least 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 18 ft deep are recommended. For more details about what comes with the package, optional add-ons, pricing, and setup instructions, visit this page.

Power & Accuracy: 98/100
Data Parameters: 98/100
Software Compatibility: 94/100


3. Bushnell Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package

Bushnell Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package

Budget: Mid (around $7500+)

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.

In addition, you can sign up for an optional Gold Subscription which 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.

And with this package put together by reputable golf vendor PlayBetter, you get a full-size enclosure and hitting mat at an affordable price so you can use the Launch Pro as part of a complete simulator studio.

What Is Included

The Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package comes with your choice of the Ball Data Only or Ball & Club Data Bushnell Launch Pro launch monitor, along with:

  • a PlayBetter SimStudio full hitting bay
  • an HD golf simulator projector (model may change)
  • a projector mounting bracket
  • a protective metal case for the Launch Pro (optional)

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

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.

You can expect the projector included with this package to be minimum HD quality and put out enough lumens for a bright experience. Models bundled in the past include the Optoma GT1080HDR and Optoma GT2000HDR.

Your space for this setup will need to fit whatever size enclosure you choose, and you’ll need to be able to make a swing with your longest club.

This is an especially popular simulator package that enjoys a high average rating of 4.4/5. Most complaints revolve around getting the Launch Pro to work properly, as there can be a few hiccups during setup. For full details, check out this page.

Power & Accuracy: 97/100
Data Parameters: 92/100
Software Compatibility: 90/100


4. Carl’s Place QED Golf Simulator Package

Carl's Place QED Golf Simulator Package

Budget: High (around $19,000+)

Further up the page, we featured a golf simulator that uses the Uneekor EYE XO system. Uneekor’s other launch monitor, the QED, is also fantastic for golf simulation, and in fact, many people actually prefer it.

One of the best simulator studio packages to pair with the QED is offered by Carl’s Place. In business since 2006, Carl’s Place has grown to be one of the most trusted indoor golf destinations in the USA.

This beastly package not only comes with a massive, super deep, commercial-grade enclosure system that mounts the launch monitor to its frame, but it also includes a top-of-the-line 4K projector and a license to the popular The Golf Club 2019 software.

Plus, this simulator package can be customized to the nth degree through Carl’s BYOS tool, from the enclosure size to the projector mount, hitting mat and more, so you don’t have to settle for the default components.

What Is Included

The Carl’s Place QED Package features the Uneekor QED launch monitor, which requires specially marked balls to use. It houses two high-speed cameras that can record at over 3000 fps, providing real-time club and ball data at high precision on shots from 10 cm to 435 yards.

Also included are:

  • a Pro Golf C-Series Enclosure with Impact Screen (your choice of size)
  • a BenQ LK936ST 4K laser short throw projector
  • a Carl’s 4’x9′ HotShot Hitting Mat
  • TGC 2019 simulator software
  • 24 Bridgestone marked golf balls
  • optional mounts for the enclosure frame

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 QED and projector directly to the frame. In addition, the screen has a unique borderless bottom for a seamless look.

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.

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.

Like the EYE XO, the QED is compatible with third party solutions TGC 2019, E6 CONNECT, Creative Golf, and GSPro.

You’ll need enough space for the enclosure (plus a bit of buffer) and to swing your longest club unimpeded. A minimum ceiling height of 10.5 feet is required.

Practically everyone who gets the Uneekor QED system ends up very happy with it. One of its main benefits is the fact that it’s mounted a few feet behind the golfer, making it much more difficult for a sky ball or bad shot to strike the unit.

Power & Accuracy: 97/100
Data Parameters: 95/100
Software Compatibility: 94/100


5. FlightScope Mevo Plus SwingBay Golf Simulator Package

FlightScope Mevo Plus SwingBay Golf Simulator V3

Budget: Mid (around $8000+)

Maybe you want a full-fledged simulator setup for your home, but you’re on a bit of a budget and prefer radar units that sit behind the hitting area for seamless hand switching. If that’s the case, then the Mevo+ SwingBay Golf Simulator Package is ideal.

This simulator pairs the successful FlightScope Mevo+ launch monitor with Rain or Shine Golf’s SwingBay enclosure. The package has turned out to be very popular and has a perfect 5/5 average rating among golfers.

The Mevo+ is comparable to the SkyTrak, but it uses Doppler radar and Fusion Tracking technologies to measure a ton of data points.

What Is Included

The Mevo+ SwingBay package consists of the Mevo+ 2023 Edition launch monitor and a fully loaded SwingBay enclosure. Also included are:

  • a full HD short throw projector with high lumens
  • a projector ceiling mount or floor enclosure (your choice)
  • landing pad turf (optional)
  • side barrier netting
  • a SwingTurf hitting mat (4’x9′ or 5’x5′)
  • an iPad Pro or gaming laptop optimized for golf simulation (optional)
  • The Golf Club 2019 software (optional)

A nice perk of the Mevo+ is its integration with E6 CONNECT software, in addition to a free FlightScope app. The simulator comes with a trimmed version of E6 for iOS or PC that includes ten courses and seventeen practice ranges.

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.

Room dimensions of 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 20 ft deep are recommended.

We love this simulator package because the Mevo+ is robust and affordable. You can be assured that Rain or Shine Golf will be very helpful throughout the setup process.

Power & Accuracy: 88/100
Data Parameters: 97/100
Software Compatibility: 94/100


6. SkyTrak Home Golf Simulator Package

Man swinging with a SkyTrak Home Golf Simulator Package

Budget: Low-mid (around $3000+)

Despite the beastly new SkyTrak+ now being on the scene, the original SkyTrak is still a very attractive launch monitor because it’s cheaper and the ball data it provides is all you need for golf simulation.

Put together by Top Shelf Golf, a great online source for golf simulator equipment, and costing well under $5000, the Home Package pairs the SkyTrak with a high-quality hitting net that can withstand ball speeds up to 200 mph.

What makes this setup so awesome is the smaller footprint, light weight, and ease of assembly. It’s also very portable, 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
  • The Net Return Pro Turf hitting mat

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.

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 ā€œNo-Fly Zoneā€ 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.

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.

Power & Accuracy: 88/100
Data Parameters: 77/100
Software Compatibility: 93/100


7. SwingLogic SLX MicroSim Home Golf Simulator

Tittle X 2021 E6 CONNECT Golf Simulator

Budget: Low (around $200+)

Don’t want to pay more than a couple hundred dollars for a golf simulator for your home? On a very low budget (see our guide on simulators under $1000)? Your best bet is probably the SLX MicroSim, formerly the Tittle X.

It’s an excellent alternative to the OptiShot that most people feel has better accuracy and is geared more towards game improvement. In fact, we used to feature the OptiShot 2 in this guide, but we removed it because it’s mainly an entertaining game and not really a serious simulator system.

The SLX MicroSim takes features of simulator equipment worth thousands of dollars and miniaturizes them into a 7.9g device. The latest version uses the powerful E6 CONNECT simulator software by TruGolf, which is one of the best available.

The SLX MicroSim isn’t designed to use any balls and it comes with a toy stick for swinging, although you can swing your own clubs with foam balls or even hit real balls into a net if you want.

This golf simulator is child and beginner friendly. We recommend it for recreational golfers.

How It Works

To use the SLX MicroSim golf simulator, you need to mount the SLX MicroSim sensor (included) onto your own club or the included swing stick.

Setup involves quite a few steps, but fortunately, SLX MicroSim provides a detailed guide to walk you through the process. You need to:

  • Register the device with a QR code.
  • Install E6 CONNECT on PC or iOS.
  • Prepare the device.
  • Establish some connections.
  • Start playing by waiting for vibrations from the device.

With the E6 CONNECT software integration, you can play 3D-rendered real-world golf courses in 4K resolution and practice on the range. There are various play modes and you can sign up for a low-cost subscription to get 40 courses and mini-games.

For a complete picture of how to set up the SLX MicroSim and what you can do with the E6 CONNECT software, refer to the user manual.

Not only is the SLX MicroSim impressively accurate given its cost, but it also delivers great entertainment thanks to the ultra-realistic (4K) graphics. See what people are saying about it here.

Power & Accuracy: 68/100
Data Parameters: 78/100
Software Compatibility: 71/100


8. Uneekor EYE MINI SwingBay Golf Simulator Package

Uneekor EYE MINI SwingBay Golf Simulator Package

Budget: Mid (around $9000+)

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 pretty much just as good.

In fact, taking into consideration cost, power and features, the EYE MINI is our portable launch monitor of choice, edging out even the GC3. It’s that good.

This package pairs the EYE MINI with Rain or Shine Golf’s high-quality SwingBay enclosure and is one of the best turn-key simulator solutions currently on the market.

What Is Included

The EYE MINI SwingBay Simulator Package by Rain or Shine Golf includes:

  • a Uneekor EYE MINI launch monitor
  • a SwingBay enclosure & impact screen with side netting
  • a SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x5′ or 4’x9′)
  • a full HD short throw projector with high lumens
  • landing pad turf (optional)
  • a projector ceiling mount or floor mount (your choice)
  • a laptop bundle optimized for golf simulation (optional)

The EYE MINI is a portable launch monitor that contains two high-speed infrared cameras and measures an array of ball and club data points. It boasts Club Optix technology which allows you to view slow-motion closeups of the club impacting the ball.

The SwingBay enclosure has dimensions of 8′ H x 4’2″ D x 10’5″ W. Made of a 1.5″ extruded aluminum frame, ballistics-grade woven polyester impact screen, and ripstop blackout walls, it offers plenty of room to work on your game.

The third-party softwares compatible with the EYE MINI are E6 CONNECT, TGC 2019, and GSPro.

Minimum space requirements are 8’6″ H x 11′ W x 16′ D.

This fantastic golf simulator package gives you portability (the launch monitor can be taken outdoors as desired), 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.

Power & Accuracy: 97/100
Data Parameters: 94/100
Software Compatibility: 88/100


9. Foresight Sports GCQuad SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

Foresight Sports GCQuad SIG10 Golf Simulator V2

Budget: High (around $29,000+)

The GCQuad can be considered the gold standard of camera-based portable launch monitors, used by top coaches and tour pros such as Phil Mickelson and Rory McIlroy.

It uses a quadrascopic (four) camera system which captures thousands of images per second and builds a complete 3D model of the club and ball at impact, allowing for measurements that are direct and not calculated.

This package was put together by The Indoor Golf Shop and uses their large full-screen SIG10 enclosure for the ultimate power setup.

What Is Included

The GCQuad SIG10 Simulator package pairs the GCQuad Launch Monitor with:

  • a SIG10 golf simulator screen & enclosure
  • a Panasonic PT-VZ580U WUXGA projector
  • your choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′, 4’x10′, or full flooring)
  • cables and a power adapter
  • alignment stick and other accessories
  • projector ceiling mount
  • landing pad turf
  • side barrier netting
  • FSX 2020 and FSX Play software

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. It offers the optional add-ons Essential Putting Analysis (gives you detailed insight into every aspect of your putting) and Clubhead Measurement (unlocks additional club head data).

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

The GCQuad is considered the ā€œRolls-Royceā€ of golf launch monitors. If you have the budget to accommodate it in a simulator setup, you’ll be one happy camper.

Power & Accuracy: 100/100
Data Parameters: 99/100
Software Compatibility: 93/100


10. TruGolf Vista 8 Golf Simulator

TruGolf Vista 8 Golf Simulator

Budget: Mid-high (around $10,000+)

If the idea of an all-in-one, plug-and-play golf simulator with top functionality appeals to you, and you have a big enough budget, the TruGolf Vista Series is something to seriously consider.

The Vista 8 is the most compact and affordable simulator in the Vista line, making it a great option for homeowners.

The Vista Series is defined by high-definition image quality, a cutting-edge tension system, advanced swing analysis capabilities, and portability with easy installation.

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

What Is Included

The Vista 8 simulator comes with:

  • an HD Vista projector and screen
  • the TruTrack2 system, which captures important shot data using multiple optical sensors
  • a 1-year subscription to E6 CONNECT, which is a simulation software that allows you to practice, play with friends, and compete with golfers around the world
  • a 1-year limited warranty

The Vista 8 is offered in Base and Pro versions. The Base version includes the above items, while the Pro version includes numerous additional features including a touch screen monitor, TruGolf computer, fairway turf, protective side nets, and more.

The minimum space requirements are 10 ft high x 14 ft wide x 16 ft deep.

Unlike many of the other simulators on this page, the Vista 8 doesn’t utilize a standalone launch monitor; it’s a completely unique tracking system built by TruGolf. For more details about what comes with the simulator, specifications, etc, visit this page.

Power & Accuracy: 98/100
Data Parameters: 81/100
Software Compatibility: 58/100


Buying Guide

Investing in a golf simulator is a big step, especially for individuals who want a personal home setup. Because of this, it’s important to consider all the factors that will affect your experience and match it with what your goals are.

Here are the most important factors you need to consider when figuring out what golf simulator will best meet your needs:

1. Size

White Measuring Tape

Size is obviously a critically important factor in golf simulators. You need to have a clear understanding of the space you intend to use in your home to contain the simulator, and what its dimensions are.

Whether it’s the basement, garage, or some other home space, 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.

Practically all full golf simulator setups will require a bare minimum of eight feet of ceiling height, but you should strive for nine feet or greater.

Width allowance is usually a minimum of ten feet, and depth allowance is usually a minimum of twelve feet, although radar launch monitors (like the Mevo+ and Full Swing KIT) need more depth. Your home space should be able to accommodate this.

2. Portability

Figure pushing a cog

Another thing to consider is how easy it will be to pack up and transport your golf simulator setup.

Do you plan to have a dedicated space in your home where the simulator will always be located, or will there be times when you need to move it?

Maybe you travel periodically and want to be able to easily take it with you. Maybe you just want to pack it away during certain times of the year (like summer, when you can get out to the golf course).

If portability would be particularly useful for you, then look for things like retractable screens, mobile swing pads, and nets. Also recognize that ceiling-mounted systems like a Uneekor are not portable, so if you want portability, you should look at freestanding launch monitors instead.

The good news is that in many cases, portable golf simulators are less expensive.

3. Net Vs. Screen

Netting Closeup

In general, there are two options with golf simulators:

  1. You can have an impact screen and a projector that will project your shots on a virtual driving range or golf course.
  2. You can hit into a net, but still be able to view your shot data and see the ball flight on your connected computer or tablet.

A screen projection will be the more expensive option. Keep in mind that you’ll be connecting your launch monitor to a computer or mobile device that has special simulator software installed.

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 want to invest in a screen/enclosure and projector setup.

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

If your goal is being able to work on and improve your game from the comfort of your home, some would argue that it shouldn’t matter if your shots are projected on a big screen in front of you or not. But that’s something you’ll have to decide for yourself.

It’s worth noting that more than 50% of all golf simulator owners use a net instead of a screen.

4. Tracking

OptiShot Swing Pad

Consider the tracking system that measures your ball and club data. Is it photometric (SkyTrak), stereoscopic, infrared, radar-based, or something else?

Of course, some tracking systems are better than others, which is where much of the price difference comes from.

For example, while the inexpensive Optishot 2 is regarded as being a lot of fun, many complain that the infrared tracking system doesn’t do a good job of detecting clubs and is too picky about lighting. That is part of the reason why we no longer feature it in this guide.

The SkyTrak is excellent in comparison, but many people don’t like its shot delay, which can be upwards of five seconds. The SkyTrak+ improves on this shot delay but not by a whole lot.

Then there are top-tier professional systems like the GCQuad and EYE XO. These are generally going to give you the most accurate and most reliable output, with the shortest lag between the shot being hit and the ball flight showing in the software.

As a general rule, the more expensive the simulator, the better the tracking system. Look into the performance of each and decide how you weigh the importance of entertainment vs. game improvement.

5. Software

GSPro 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 comes with a subscription 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 GCQuad.

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+, and 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 homeowners might have. 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.


Frequently Asked Questions

What room in a home is best for a golf simulator?

Golf simulators can be put anywhere in the home where there’s sufficient space.

However, if there are other people living in the home, we suggest not putting a golf simulator near a kitchen (such as in an open concept home) or next to televisions or computers, as the noise can be very disturbing to others nearby.

Some of the most popular home spaces for golf simulators are garages, basements, extra bedrooms, offices, rec rooms, and sun rooms. If you have a large enough property, you could also build a golf simulator shed.

Note that you should strive for a space with at least 9 feet of ceiling height, 12 feet of width, and 16-18 feet of depth — this should work for most home setups.

Can a golf simulator improve your game?

Absolutely. A golf simulator is probably the best way to improve your game aside from getting out to the driving range or the golf course.

In our experience, the greatest value of golf simulators lies in being able to improve your ballstriking for irons and woods in the mid and long game.

And the advantage it has over real play is that you can easily measure the progress you’re making with data points produced by your launch monitor as well as analyze your stats with things like dispersion maps and averages.

Having said that, golf simulators tend to be less useful for improving aspects of your short game like chipping and putting, as most golf simulators are not designed with these parts of the game in mind. For these short touch-based shots, it may be better to practice at your local course or using a home short game complex.

Where can you buy a golf simulator online?

There are a number of excellent online sellers out there that will be able to accommodate your home golf simulator needs.

Our top recommendations are The Indoor Golf ShopCarl’s PlaceRain or Shine GolfTop Shelf Golf, and PlayBetter.

You can choose any of these vendors based on your preferences and on what they offer. All have excellent support teams that will go out of their way to ensure you’re set up properly.

How much do golf simulators cost?

A golf simulator can cost anywhere from around $150 all the way up to more than $70,000, but good ones that allow you to seriously improve your game at home tend to average around $10,000.

The cost will vary based on many factors including features, software, launch monitor, and the equipment included. We address this question in detail in this article.

How accurate are golf simulators?

Good golf simulators are generally very accurate, but accuracy differs depending on the quality of the system and other factors.

Lower-end simulators may be around 85-90% accurate to real life.

The best simulators, on the other hand, can closely reflect reality within 1% as long as they’re set up correctly. These systems have undergone rigorous testing and are relied upon by pro golfers, coaches and club fitters around the world.

We address this question in more detail in this article.


Conclusion

Golf simulators have become a lot more accessible and affordable over the past decade, and this means more golf fanatics than ever before have been able to have their own home setup.

A quality, reliable golf simulator can be a huge boon to your golf toolkit. Finding a simulator package that can meet your needs 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 home? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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