10 Best Golf Simulators For Home – 2024 Reviews & Buying Guide

Golfstead is reader-supported. When you buy through links on the site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Our affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network and Amazon Associates.

Many people dream of having a full golf simulator setup in their home so they can play their favourite golf courses or practice 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 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 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. Carl’s ProTee VX Golf Simulator Package
  3. Bushnell Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package
  4. Uneekor EYE MINI Lite SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
  5. Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
  6. FlightScope Mevo Plus TeeParty Golf Simulator Package
  7. Foresight Falcon SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
  8. SwingLogic SLX MicroSim Home Golf Simulator
  9. Foresight Sports GCQuad SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
  10. TruGolf MAX Golf Simulator

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 SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

SkyTrak Plus (ST+) SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

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

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 third-party compatibility. Various software and enclosure upgrades can optionally be added to your final purchase.

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 packs tremendous value.

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


2. Carl’s ProTee VX Golf Simulator Package

Carl's ProTee VX Golf Simulator Package

The ProTee VX is a ceiling-mounted system that is perfect for a dedicated sim space in your home.

This launch monitor has an extensive set of data parameters, high-end accuracy, a large hitting area, a super easy setup, and is compatible with the best simulator software on the market. No marked balls or club stickers are needed to get any measurements.

And taking all of that into account, it’s a fair bit less expensive than the comparable Uneekor EYE XO, which many would argue is just as good.

This package, put together by Carl’s Place, pairs the ProTee VX with Carl’s unique C-Series DIY Enclosure available in a range of different sizes. In addition to our view on the ProTee VX, Carl’s Place considers it one of the best systems for the money right now.

What Is Included

The Carl’s ProTee VX simulator package most notably includes:

  • a ProTee VX launch monitor
  • a Carl’s Place C-Series DIY Enclosure with impact screen (two size options)
  • a Carl’s HotShot 4’x9′ hitting mat (double-sided)
  • a BenQ TH671ST 1080p short throw projector
  • a projector ceiling mount
  • a subscription to the GSPro software

The ProTee VX uses Vision and A.I. technology as part of a dual high-speed camera setup. Data is measured and displayed within a second of hitting your shot thanks to A.I. and machine learning technology.

For data viewing and analysis, the ProTee VX launch monitor comes with the ProTee Labs software which, in addition to showing all your data in an easy-to-read format, provides a slow-motion replay of the club impacting the ball for every shot.

This simulator is also compatible with third-party software solutions TGC 2019, E6 CONNECT, GSPro, Creative Golf, and ProTee Play.

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 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 ProTee VX should be mounted about 3.5 feet (40-43 inches) in front of the hitting area and 9-10 feet above the ground. We really do believe it’s a game-changer in the launch monitor space. For full details on what’s included, go to this page.


3. Bushnell Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package

Bushnell Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package

The Bushnell Launch Pro allows you to experience the power of the Foresight Sports GC3 at a heavily reduced cost, while only paying for the features you want.

With the initial purchase, you’ll be able to view ball and club data parameters on the LCD display after each shot, depending on whether you get the Ball Data Enabled Unit or the pricier Ball & Club Data Enabled Unit.

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)
  • 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 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 4.3/5. 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.


4. Uneekor EYE MINI Lite SwingBay Golf Simulator Package

Uneekor EYE MINI Lite SwingBay 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 their full-sized SwingBay enclosure. We think it’s one of the best EYE MINI Lite sim packages on the market today.

What Is Included

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

  • a SwingBay enclosure system (8’x10.5′ or 9’x12′)
  • a full HD (1080p) short throw projector with high lumens
  • a projector ceiling mount
  • a SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x5′ or 9’x4′)
  • landing pad turf (optional)
  • side barrier netting
  • 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 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 in the home is all you need to get it working smoothly.


5. Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

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 much 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
  • a WXGA (1200×800) 3600-lumens projector
  • a ceiling projector mount
  • landing pad turf
  • your choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′) or full flooring

The EYE XO uses unmarked ball technology, so you can use any ball you want.

The high-speed cameras can track club path, spin, and ball impact at over 3000 fps. Because the unit is mounted overhead, you can swing freely on your hitting mat without having to worry about hand switching or precise positioning.

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. The EYE XO recently got a significant price drop, so now’s a good a time as any to jump on it.


6. FlightScope Mevo Plus TeeParty Golf Simulator Package

FlightScope Mevo Plus TeeParty Golf Simulator Package

The Mevo Plus (Mevo+) is a very versatile consumer-tier launch monitor equipped with Doppler radar and Fusion Tracking technology. It’s ideal for home use, although you’ll need at least eight feet of space behind the hitting area to set it up.

One of the best simulator studio packages to pair with the Mevo+ is undoubtedly the TeeParty Package by Carl’s Place, created for both fun and game improvement. Carl’s Place has been in business since 2006 and has grown to be one of the most trusted indoor golf destinations in the USA.

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

What Is Included

The Mevo+ TeeParty simulator package includes:

  • a FlightScope Mevo+ 2024 Edition launch monitor
  • a Carl’s Place C-Series DIY Enclosure with impact screen (six size options)
  • a Country Club Elite 5’x8′ hitting mat
  • a BenQ LU710 1080p projector
  • Creative Golf software
  • a projector ceiling mount
  • wall-to-wall turf

A nice perk of the Mevo+ is that it comes bundled with E6 CONNECT software for iOS or PC, in addition to a free FlightScope app. But this package also throws in Creative Golf which offers course play, a variety of practice modes, and entertaining, quirky mini-games that are family and kid-friendly.

The included Country Club Elite Mat is designed to closely mimic the feel of hitting a shot from the fairway and taking a real divot. It can take a real wooden tee.

The BenQ LU710 is a laser projector that can output 1080p (1920×1080) resolution at a bright 4000 lumens, making it one of the top options for a golf simulator.

In addition to the software already mentioned, the Mevo+ can also integrate with The Golf Club 2019, GSPro, and Awesome Golf.

Carl’s Place recommends that you have at least 19 feet of depth for this setup. The Mevo+ needs to sit eight feet behind the ball, and you’ll also need enough space to fit the enclosure size you choose and mount the projector.

We love this simulator package because the Mevo+ is robust and affordable and Carl’s Place is there to help you every step of the way.


7. Foresight Falcon SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

Foresight Falcon SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

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

For most people, especially home users, 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.

This particular package pairs the Falcon with The Indoor Golf Shop’s popular SIG10 enclosure which can fit into most home 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 SIG10 simulator screen & enclosure
  • a WUXGA (1920×1200) 6000-lumens projector
  • a ceiling projector mount
  • landing pad turf
  • your choice of hitting mat (4’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x9′)
  • 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.

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

At the end of the day, if you’re looking for the most accurate and powerful overhead launch monitor money can buy but are turned off by the GCHawk’s high price tag, the Falcon is what you want to look at.


8. SwingLogic SLX MicroSim Home Golf Simulator

Tittle X 2021 E6 CONNECT Golf Simulator

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.


9. Foresight Sports GCQuad SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

Foresight Sports GCQuad SIG10 Golf Simulator V2

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 WXGA (1280×800) 3600-lumens 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
  • 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. The Clubhead Measurement add-on is included with the GCQuad, and you can optionally get the Essential Putting Analysis add-on at extra cost.

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

The GCQuad is considered the “Rolls-Royce” of golf launch monitors along with the QuadMAX. If you have the budget to accommodate it in a simulator setup, you’ll be one happy camper.


10. TruGolf MAX Golf Simulator

TruGolf MAX Golf Simulator

The MAX is TruGolf’s next-generation golf simulator that utilizes their new, cutting-edge APOGEE launch monitor.

This fully-loaded turnkey package is easy to set up and gives you everything you need to work on your game at home, including a full-sized enclosure, double-sided hitting mat, landing pad turf, and detailed shot analysis in the bundled E6 CONNECT software.

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

What Is Included

The MAX simulator pairs a high-quality studio with the TruGolf APOGEE launch monitor.

The APOGEE is an advanced overhead-mounted device that is powered by an image analysis algorithm, Instant Impact, for virtually instaneous results after you hit your shot. This launch monitor measures an array of club and ball data points without the need for club markings or special balls, and it enjoys cool features like laser-drawn tee boxes and voice commands.

The APOGEE also captures slow-motion video of your club impacting the ball and provides detailed feedback on face impact location.

The simulator’s studio consists of:

  • a MAX frame and enclosure with impact screen
  • a 1080p projector
  • a spacious 5’x12′ hitting mat
  • first cut turf floor
  • side barrier netting
  • E6 CONNECT software

We would have liked a deeper enclosure, but the MAX is still a great enclosure with a unique Dawn Patrol (navy blue) theme.

This system is integrated with the E6 CONNECT software. The initial purchase comes with 27 courses and one year of the Expanded Subscription, which gives you access to all content in the E6 CONNECT library.

The TruGolf MAX is also offered in MAX + Technology and MAX + 4K versions. The latter provides a 4K gaming PC and monitor with the package.

In addition, you can integrate the TruGolf Multisport Interactive Sports Camera with the MAX. 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.

Recommended space requirements are 15’W x 10’H x 20’D.

This simulator is fairly expensive, but we think it’s worth the reliability and convenience. For more details about what comes with the package, specifications, etc, visit this page.


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 overhead launch monitors like the EYE XO and Foresight Falcon 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, 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.

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.
  • 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. Find out more about this 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 golfers 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.

Share this:

39 Comments

  1. Johnny A Tanner January 11, 2020
    • Paul January 11, 2020
  2. Brody Ballman March 17, 2020
    • Paul March 17, 2020
  3. John Irish September 23, 2020
    • Paul September 23, 2020
  4. Chris August 27, 2021
    • Paul August 27, 2021
  5. allen zeng November 13, 2021
    • Paul November 13, 2021
  6. Corey March 30, 2022
    • Paul March 31, 2022
  7. B Riggs April 9, 2022
    • Paul April 9, 2022
  8. Lucy May 29, 2022
    • Paul June 1, 2022
  9. Deb September 5, 2022
    • Paul September 5, 2022
  10. Matt November 3, 2022
    • Paul November 3, 2022
      • Matt November 4, 2022
  11. Jane November 8, 2022
    • Paul November 9, 2022
  12. Jordan January 14, 2023
    • Paul January 14, 2023
  13. Brendan April 26, 2023
    • Paul April 26, 2023
  14. Matt D July 23, 2023
    • Paul July 23, 2023
  15. Johnny Song August 1, 2023
    • Paul August 1, 2023
  16. kris August 12, 2023
    • Paul August 13, 2023
  17. Matt D October 8, 2023
    • Paul October 8, 2023
  18. TIM KING July 11, 2024
    • Paul July 11, 2024
  19. Dave August 30, 2024
    • Paul August 30, 2024

Leave a Reply