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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 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.
We at Golfstead have tested and/or conducted in-depth research into all of these golf simulator setups. Some offer less features than others, but they all give an excellent experience for the cost.
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:
- SkyTrak SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
- Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
- Foresight Sports GC3 SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
- SkyTrak Home Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope Mevo Plus PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
- Full Swing KIT SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
- SwingLogic SLX MicroSim Home Golf Simulator
- Uneekor QED SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
- Foresight Sports GCQuad SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
- TruGolf Vista 8 Golf Simulator
1. SkyTrak SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
This amazing 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 SkyTrak Launch Monitor, which is one of the most popular golf simulation tools on the market, especially for indoor home setups. The SkyTrak records your ball flight data at a precision comparable to professional launch monitors but at a fraction of the price.
With this 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 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.
Also included are:
- your choice of a hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
- a 1080p 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 12 world-class WGT (World Golf Tour) golf 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 because the studio is very well-made and it uses the SkyTrak, which is the ideal launch monitor for home use.
For more details about what comes with the package and the setup steps you need to take, visit this page.
2. Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
In our opinion, this 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 simulator system has been incredibly well-received by golfers. It is considered better than the SkyTrak and on par with many professional systems at a more affordable price.
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.
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 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 3D, 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.
3. Foresight Sports GC3 SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
The GC3 launch monitor by Foresight Sports offers terrific value for the cost. It’s practically just as accurate as the GCQuad, and although it measures a few less advanced parameters, it’s perfect for a home golf simulator.
The portable GC3 has a touchscreen display with direct-to-screen output and comes bundled with the stunning new FSX Play software.
This excellent package by Rain or Shine Golf pairs the GC3 with their full-screen SwingBay enclosure which enjoys stellar ratings.
What Is Included
The Foresight Sports GC3 SwingBay Simulator includes the GC3 launch monitor along with:
- a SwingBay simulator screen & enclosure
- a full HD short throw projector with high lumens
- a projector ceiling mount or floor mount enclosure (your choice)
- a SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x5′ or 9’x4′)
- landing turf (optional)
- side barrier netting
- the FSX software suite
The professional-grade GC3 launch monitor has a sleek, portable design and can also be taken outdoors as needed. Three high-speed cameras are used as part of a triscopic photometric camera system.
Rain or Shine Golf’s SwingBay enclosure consists of a quality impact screen designed for 4:3 projection, commercial-grade blackout walls, and a bungee fastening system.
Foresight Sports’ in-house software FSX 2020 and FSX Play are included with the GC3. The newer FSX Play software builds off of FSX 2020 and is designed to provide an ultra-realistic golf simulation experience with support for up to 5K resolution.
Also included are the FSX Pro performance software and FS Performance Fitting App. You can optionally upgrade the GC3 to the Players Plus Bundle which adds ten more courses, many of which are world-famous.
The GC3 has been very well-received and is one of our top launch monitor recommendations. When you pair that with a fully loaded simulator bay like the SwingBay, you win big.
4. SkyTrak Home Golf Simulator Package
Interested in the SkyTrak but don’t want to put down the cash for a pricey screen/enclosure/projector setup? The SkyTrak Home Simulator should be perfect for you.
This is an affordable package (less than $5000) that was put together by Top Shelf Golf, a great online source for golf simulator equipment. It 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 “No-Fly Zone” 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.
5. FlightScope Mevo Plus PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
Maybe you want a full-fledged simulator setup for your home, but you’re on a bit of a budget and don’t want to pay more than a few thousand dollars for it. If that’s the case, then the Mevo+ PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package is ideal.
This simulator package was put together by Top Shelf Golf and is one of the most affordable full simulator setups (with screen, enclosure, projector, and a quality launch monitor) on the market.
If you’re content with seeing your simulation on a mobile device or PC, you can leave out the projector when ordering this package and save an additional $1000-$2000.
What Is Included
The Mevo+ PerfectBay Simulator uses the Mevo Plus 2023 Edition launch monitor, which is comparable to the SkyTrak but is much newer and works reliably both indoors and outdoors. The Mevo+ can be used with the free FS Golf app, giving you real-time performance data, saving of sessions, skills challenges, and more.
Also included in the base package is:
- a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT for iOS or PC
- a PerfectBay Golf Simulator Enclosure
- The Net Return Pro Turf hitting mat
The PerfectBay enclosure, made in the USA, is five feet deep and has a durable, triple-layer impact screen. The screen does not sag, is designed for 4:3 projection, dampens noise, and is meant to withstand ball speeds up to an impressive 250 mph.
Like other simulator packages sold by Top Shelf Golf, the Mevo+ PerfectBay Package is highly customizable:
- You can choose a larger PerfectBay PLUS or wider PerfectBay WIDE enclosure.
- You can purchase software licenses for TGC 2019 or E6 CONNECT.
- You can replace the Pro Turf mat with a Fiberbuilt hitting mat.
- You can add an Optoma projector.
- You can add a projector floor mount enclosure or ceiling mount.
- You can add the Mevo+ Pro Package or Face Impact Location add-ons.
The Mevo+ PerfectBay Package offers a lot of flexibility for golfers to find the setup that works best for them and that also meets their budget.
Minimum space dimensions of 12 ft wide x 9 ft high x 16 ft deep are required. In this case, the Mevo+ unit requires quite a lot of space in front and behind in order to produce the most accurate readings.
The optional PerfectBay PLUS upgrade has a larger screen size of 11’5″W x 8’5″H, while the PerfectBay WIDE upgrade has a 16:9 aspect ratio with a screen width of 13 feet.
Top Shelf Golf has a proven track record with many happy customers. They provide a ton of detail about every aspect of this simulator package here.
6. Full Swing KIT SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
This simulator is special because it features the Full Swing KIT launch monitor which is endorsed and used personally by Tiger Woods.
Not only that, but the KIT was built at Woods’ request and according to his standards, so that he can enjoy the same reliability he gets with his indoor Full Swing simulator.
This package by The Indoor Golf Shop combines the KIT with a their popular SIG10 enclosure which can fit into most spaces. The accuracy of the KIT is comparable to top-end launch monitors but is thousands of dollars cheaper, so you’re getting fantastic value here.
What Is Included
This package consists of the Full Swing KIT launch monitor with charger and protective travel case. In addition to indoor home use, the KIT can also be taken outside and used as needed.
Also included are:
- a SIG10 screen & enclosure system
- a Panasonic PT-VZ580U WUXGA projector
- landing pad turf
- 5’x5′, 4’x7′, 4’x10′, or full flooring hitting mat (your choice)
- a ceiling projector mount
- side barrier netting
The portable KIT uses Doppler radar and dedicated processors to measure 16 ball and club parameters, no stickers or leveling required. It has direct-to-screen output and is the only launch monitor with a customizable OLED full-colour screen.
The KIT is currently compatible with the iOS version of E6 CONNECT, offered in three packages. It also pairs with a companion app (iOS) that allows you to view your historical shot data, store video, track trends, and manage your clubs and bag.
Space dimensions of 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 18 ft deep are recommended.
The Woods-endorsed KIT has an extensive parameter set, and the app is very useful and intuitive for practice sessions. The main drawback is limited software and the fact that an iOS device is required for golf simulation; Android and PC users are out of luck for now.
7. SwingLogic SLX MicroSim Home 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 (check out 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.
8. Uneekor QED SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
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.
The QED delivers high precision on shots from 10 cm to 435 yards. One of its main benefits is the fact that it’s mounted on the ceiling a few feet behind the golfer, making it much more difficult for a sky ball or bad shot to strike the unit.
This package gives you everything you need to set up a fantastic studio including Rain Or Shine Golf’s SwingBay enclosure and an optional gaming laptop optimized for golf simulation.
What Is Included
The Uneekor QED SwingBay Simulator includes the QED system along with:
- a SwingBay simulator screen & enclosure
- a full HD short throw projector with high lumens
- a ceiling or floor projector mount (your choice)
- landing pad turf (optional)
- side barrier netting
- a SwingTurf hitting mat (4’x9′ or 5’x5′)
- a gaming laptop optimized for golf simulation (optional)
- The Golf Club 2019 software (optional)
The QED bar houses two high-speed cameras that can record at over 3000 fps, providing real-time club and ball data.
Rain or Shine Golf’s SwingBay enclosure consists of a quality impact screen designed for 4:3 projection, commercial-grade blackout walls, and a bungee fastening system.
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.
Minimum room dimensions of 8 ft high x 11 ft wide x 16 ft deep are required.
Practically everyone who gets the Uneekor QED system ends up very happy with it. Even if you don’t want to pay extra for separate software, the default Ignite software is rock solid and will allow you to get the quality practice you expect out of a premium simulator package.
9. Foresight Sports GCQuad SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
The GCQuad can be considered the gold standard of camera-based portable launch monitors, used by top coaches and PGA 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 2020, FSX Play, E6 CONNECT, and Creative Golf 3D. It also has direct-to-screen output so you can view your numbers without any separate device or software.
The GCQuad also 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. For more details about what comes with the package, pricing and more, go here.
10. TruGolf Vista 8 Golf Simulator
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 use the SkyTrak Launch Monitor; it’s a completely different system built by TruGolf. For more details about what comes with the simulator, 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
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.
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 KIT) need more depth. Your home space should be able to accommodate this.
2. Portability
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 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
In general, there are two options with golf simulators:
- You can have a screen and a projector that will project your shots on a virtual driving range or golf course.
- 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 tablet 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 phone or tablet, 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
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. Some tracking systems have better accuracy, better reliability, and less lag between the ball hitting the screen and the ball flight displaying.
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 GC3, GC2, QED, EYE XO, and TruTrack systems don’t have such a lag.
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
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 uses 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 Play, which allows you to play world-class courses.
E6 CONNECT is a high-quality software option that is highly customizable. It offers various course simulations, minigames, training ads, tournaments, and more, and is compatible with many simulator systems:
- with SLX MicroSim, you can use E6 CONNECT to play local rounds, play mini-games, practice, play online, and play events
- the Mevo+ comes with a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT that allows you to play various courses and games
- the Full Swing KIT is compatible with the iOS version of E6 CONNECT, giving you access to 5-100+ courses depending on the package chosen
- TruGolf Vista simulators are fully compatible with E6 CONNECT software
The GCQuad’s proprietary FSX software allows you to play skills challenges and many of the world’s best courses.
Uneekor offers its own in-house software in three tiers: Ignite/View, Refine and Refine+ (formerly Succeed). This is impressive software that has a 3D driving range, various practice modes, course modes, game modes, and more.
Creative Golf 3D 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 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.
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.
Good Review
I’m looking for a simulator for home use? is this for gaming only or does it give accurate readings for lessons ie impact spins smash factor face angles launch angles etc etc.
Thanks
Hi Johnny. All of these simulators offer different modes for gaming, and they also allow you to practice and measure key club and ball parameters. SkyTrak, TruGolf and GC3 tracking systems are definitely for serious golfers. The only simulator on the list that you could say is more for recreation is the OptiShot 2.
I have a $12,000 budget, what would you recommend for this price. Also I do not want a system with a ball delay.
Hi Brody. I would normally recommend a SkyTrak package because it has one of the best performance-cost ratios. It can have a shot delay of a few seconds, but most people don’t care about this and find it easy to live with.
I don’t believe there’s a simulator system out there that has absolutely no shot delay. But with that budget you gave, I would suggest this Vista package. The Vista has practically no shot delay and you should be pleased with it. Thanks for the comment and let me know if you have any other questions.
Thanks for all the helpful info. The space I have is H 8’10”, W 12′, L 14′[could extent to 18′]
I am 5’8″ high and swing a driver with the 8’10” ceiling height.
Would this work and what would you recommend. Thanks
Hi John. Well, that’s a bit tight, but it’s doable. If you have a mid-range budget, one of the best ones I would recommend to you is this. If you have a higher budget, check out this or this. If you can swing your driver with no problems, you should be good to go.
I would like to start a small business with two simulators in it, I would want as realistic feel as possible, I would like for my costumers feeling really good about the experience. Does any of these simulators come with the computers and operating systems?
Hi Chris. Out of the simulators featured in this article, the Vista 8 Pro version, comes with a computer and 21″ touch screen. Beyond that, if you’re looking for simulators for business purposes, I recommend checking out my commercial golf simulator guide. There you can find several other options in terms of sims that come with computers; in particular, the HD Golf Ultimate Training Simulator comes with a full workstation, and PGA Tour pro Bubba Watson says it’s the most realistic simulator he’s ever seen. Hope this helps.
how about the cost?
As a general rule, we don’t put exact dollar amounts in these guides, mainly because the prices are always changing. The links to the simulator listings open in a new tab, so go ahead and click on all of them to compare.
I have an outbuilding space that is not temperature controlled so can get fairly hot in the summer and very cold in the winter. Because of this, I assume that I would need something fairly portable that I could easily move from the house (for storage) to the outbuilding (for use), at least for any components that have electronics. Any suggestions?
That’s definitely an option. You could also regulate the climate of the space with heaters, AC units, mini-splits, dehumidifiers, etc. The most important thing would probably be to have a dehumidifier in there because high humidity can be quite dangerous to electronic components.
If you want a portable system that you can move inside and out, look at simulator packages with portable freestanding launch monitors like the SkyTrak, Mevo Plus, Approach R10, or GCQuad depending on your budget. You should be able to leave nets and screen enclosures where they are. I think you could even pull off a projector setup if you used a projector floor mount enclosure because that is portable.
If you provide more details about what kind of simulator you have in mind and what your budget is, I can make a suggestion. Something good might be the SkyTrak Flex Space Package, but you can mix and match individual components here.
We are looking for a setup that would work with a room depth of 10 feet. What would you suggest?
That’s tough because the depth usually requires the most space for a setup. If your space is longer width-wise, you should rotate the setup. Otherwise, the only thing that comes to mind is something like this SkyTrak Practice Package which uses a net. You can use another portable launch monitor that sits in front of you at address such as the GC3 or GCQuad, depending on your budget. The bare minimum depth requirement for this kind of setup is 10 feet. Radar-based launch monitors are out of the question because they sit behind the golfer. Before purchasing, I would definitely reach out to customer support and confirm that it would work for your space.
We want to convert a small home theater to a high-end simulator. We are willing to spend good money on the setup and want it to be built into the room. The problem is the size. Not tiny, but not huge either. 15.5ft L x 12.5ft W x 10.5ft H.
Would any of the best simulators you recommend work in this room? We would have it custom built.
Hi Lucy. The size is ok except for the room depth — quality simulator setups typically need more depth than that. Most of the simulators we recommend are fixed setups, and I don’t know if you’d be able to find a custom build option that would work with that depth. You can try looking at custom builds of HD Golf, aboutGolf, TruGolf and Golfzon simulators and see if there’s something you can pull off. Otherwise, the best thing would be to get a larger space.
We are looking for a good quality golf simulator we only have 8.5 ceilings to swing a club I’m only 5 ft 4 so no issues swinging a driver my husband is 6 ft but is still able to swing a driver what would be the best system for us?
8.5″ ceilings are the bare minimum for most golf simulator setups. Simulators that use The Indoor Golf Shop’s SIG10 enclosure, Rain or Shine Golf’s SwingBay enclosure, or Top Shelf Golf’s PerfectBay enclosure should all work, but there will hardly be any clearance. Setups that use a net instead of an enclosure will be more compact. Without knowing what your budget is, I would suggest the SkyTrak SIG10 or GC3 SIG10 simulators — I believe the Uneekor systems need to be mounted at least 9″ from the ground.
Good afternoon Paul,
I am finishing our basement and looking to have a hybrid movie theatre / golf simulator. The room will be enclosed with 9’10’ height, 11’8″ width and practically limitless depth for us to place recliners to watch movies or sit behind someone on the simulator. True enjoyment would be for the screen and projector have ability to stream movies/football games, plus have a quality simulator for 1. game improvement with all club and ball metrics, record swing lateral and back , but also 2. the ability to play many golf courses across the country/world. We would have little interest in other game modes (closest to the pin etc.)
Your insight would be greatly appreciated
Hi Matt. A golf simulator can typically double as a home theater quite well, but there are a few things to consider.
First, the best impact screens that are designed to withstand high-speed golf balls are generally not the best for theatre video quality, so there’s a tradeoff there unless you want to switch between two screens. I suggest having two screens for each purpose because you don’t want your theatre image ruined by golf ball imprints.
Second, the best golf simulator screens tend to be designed for 4:3 (aspect ratio) projection but you’ll likely want 16:9 or 16:10 for theatre use. In such a case, you’d have bars on the top and bottom when watching TV/movies. You also have to think about the quality you want to stream media at (1080p, 4K, etc.) and ensure that everything is compatible. Then you’ll probably want to set up a surround sound system.
Of course, you’ll need to figure out the minutiae of making this all work. In your case, based on the size of your space and what you said you want with the software and everything, I recommend starting with something like the Uneekor EYE XO SIG10 Golf Simulator Package by The Indoor Golf Shop and hooking up the EYE XO with The Golf Club 2019 or GSPro software which offer tons of courses to play. You can also put together all the desired components separately for more control. I advise getting in touch with whoever you buy from and they’ll be able to work with you on a more personal level.
That was very helpful and thank you for all your insight. I hope to update you in a year or so and say it all runs beautifully… and of course I shaved numerous strokes off my game. Thanks again
I want to give a gift to someone who already has a simulator set up in the living room including netting, projector, screen, etc. I was wondering if there are any add-ons beside the very upscale set up he already has. For example is there a way to change the lie of the ball he is hitting? Or maybe a program that changes weather conditions in which the ball is hit?
I don’t know what launch monitor he uses, but certain ones come with add-ons (e.g. the Pro Package for the Mevo+ or Club/Putting Analysis for the GCQuad). You can also buy additional simulator software which will add new game modes and features. I could be of more help if I knew which launch monitor he is using. But aside from this, there isn’t much you can do in the way of add-ons apart from replacing the simulator components he already has with something better.
Hey Paul,
Basement is gutted. What simulator is the absolute best technology? Trackman? Foresight? No real budget, just want the simulator that is going to be the most realistic to outdoors…
Thanks Paul
It’s hard to say which one system is the absolute best, but if you’re looking for the most realism and cost is not an issue, you can’t go wrong with the HD Golf Simulator. I recommend buying it at this link because you get two dedicated project managers and an entire design/architect team to help coordinate your vision.
Hey Paul, I’m looking for a sim in my basement. My budget is around $30,000. What would you recommend?
Thanks!
Hi Brendan. Without knowing more information, I suggest the GCQuad SIG10 by The Indoor Golf Shop. Unless you select full flooring and get both add-ons, you’ll be able to keep it under $30K. A less expensive alternative is the GC3 SIG10 — the GC3 measures only a few less advanced data parameters. Depending on the space you have in your basement, another excellent option is the FlightScope X3 SIG10. If you have enough space, you can upsize to the SIG12 studio.
Feel free to give me more details about your situation and I’ll be able to help you better.