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Many golfers want to be able to use a golf simulator through their iPad or tablet.
There are many possible reasons for this. Some people are accustomed to using a tablet in their daily life. Others don’t have a laptop or desktop PC that can run golf simulator software.
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 that can operate on an iPad or tablet, there are a few things you’ll need to give yourself a great experience: a launch monitor that records your shot data, a hitting net or screen, and optionally, a projector that displays your shot on a life-size screen.
Most importantly, the software solutions that are compatible with the simulator need to be able to run on an iOS or Android device.
In this article, we’ll review and compare our picks for the best golf simulators for iPads and tablets over a range of different budgets.
We have tested 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 iPads & Tablets
The following are our top selections based on our own testing, research, and experience:
- SkyTrak Training Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope Mevo Plus SwingBay Simulator Package
- Garmin Approach R10 SIG8 Golf Simulator Package
- SkyTrak PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope X3 SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
- SkyTrak Flex Space Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope Mevo Plus Training Package
1. SkyTrak Training Golf Simulator Package
Not only is the SkyTrak undoubtedly the best launch monitor for iPad and tablet compatibility, but it’s also one of the best launch monitors overall in terms of its value/cost ratio.
Moreover, the default SkyTrak software has some of the only Android compatibility on the market.
This simulator package, put together by The Indoor Golf Shop, incorporates the power of the SkyTrak and is very affordable because it uses a net instead of a screen & projector. The simulation can be viewed on your iPad or tablet after every shot.
With this simulator setup, you can count on being able to dial in your swing and take your game to the next level using your tablet.
What Is Included
The SkyTrak Golf Simulator Training Package pairs the SkyTrak Launch Monitor with a high-quality SIGPRO Golf Net designed by The Indoor Golf Shop.
The SIGPRO net has an aluminum frame with a snap-button system. Able to withstand ball speeds of 225 mph, it’s easy to assemble, collapsible, and can even attach with a SIG Preferred impact screen for projector use.
Also included are the SIGPRO Turf (6’x10′), side barriers with sandbags, and your choice of a hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′).
A nice bonus is that it includes a subscription to the SkyTrak Play & Improve Plan. This is the highest tier 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 SkyTrak is compatible with a range of software solutions. In addition to the default software which is usable on both iPads and tablets, the E6 CONNECT software can be used on iOS devices.
Space dimensions of 8 ft high x 10 ft wide x 12 ft deep are recommended, but you may need even more height depending on the length of your swing. Get shipping details here.
2. FlightScope Mevo Plus SwingBay Simulator Package
There is another other quality golf simulator that can be run on iPads and tablets, and that’s the Mevo Plus. At roughly the same price as the SkyTrak (but newer), many argue that it’s better than the SkyTrak in certain respects, and it is also more reliable outdoors due to its radar technology.
The Mevo+ comes with a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT out of the box that is only usable on iOS devices. Not only that, but the Awesome Golf software that can integrate with the Mevo+ is usable on iOS and Android devices.
This fully loaded Mevo+ simulator package gives you everything you need to play and improve your game all year, rain or shine. It’s a very popular package that has a perfect 5/5 average customer rating.
What Is Included
The Mevo+ SwingBay package consists of the Mevo+ launch monitor and a large SwingBay enclosure. Also included are:
- an Optoma 1080p Short Throw Projector
- a projector ceiling mount or floor mount 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)
- E6 CONNECT or The Golf Club software (your choice)
- BirTees and other accessories
A nice perk of the Mevo+ is its integration with E6 CONNECT and Awesome Golf software, in addition to a free FlightScope app. The simulator comes with a trimmed iOS version of E6 that includes five courses and seventeen practice ranges.
If you plan to use an iPad with the Mevo+, we obviously recommend choosing the iPad Pro/E6 CONNECT bundle instead of the gaming laptop/TGC bundle.
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 and Rain or Shine Golf is extremely helpful throughout the setup process.
3. Garmin Approach R10 SIG8 Golf Simulator Package
The Garmin Approach R10 has already made big waves in the industry. Many people consider it to have revolutionized golf tech like the SkyTrak did back in 2014.
The Approach R10 is an excellent choice for iPads & tablets for several reasons:
- Like the Mevo+, it comes with a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT on iOS that includes five courses.
- It integrates with Home Tee Hero simulation software through the Garmin Golf app available for iOS and Android.
- It integrates with the Awesome Golf software which is playable on iOS and Android.
This package by The Indoor Golf Shop combines the R10 with a compact SIG8 enclosure that is just over eight feet wide. For most people, the enclosure is plenty big enough to get an excellent simulator experience.
What Is Included
The SIG8 package consists of the Approach R10 launch monitor and a premium SIG8 simulator screen and enclosure (designed by The Indoor Golf Shop) that is made in the USA.
Also included are:
- an HD 1080p golf simulator projector
- landing pad turf
- 5’x5′, 4’x7′, or full flooring hitting mat (your choice)
- a ceiling projector mount
- side barrier netting
- a Garmin Golf membership trial
The R10 directly measures seven data parameters using radar technology and derives many other parameters including spin and face angle. You can practice and analyze your sessions on a virtual driving range for free with the Garmin Golf app.
Home Tee Hero, E6 CONNECT, The Golf Club 2019 and Awesome Golf can all be played on the R10 at extra cost. A subscription to the Garmin Golf app unlocks green contour data, Home Tee Hero access, and video clip cloud storage.
The optional SIG8 Simulator Flooring is a full flooring option that consists of a hitting strip surrounded by a putting green. This is a powerful setup designed specifically for the SIG8 enclosure, but it’s quite expensive.
Space dimensions of 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 18 ft deep are recommended.
Customers love this very affordable setup, but many feel the hitting mat options that come with the package are worth upgrading from.
4. SkyTrak PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
Maybe you’re interested in the SkyTrak but want a full studio with enclosure, screen and projector. In that case, check out this simulator package put together by Top Shelf Golf, a reputable online vendor for golf equipment.
This package pairs the SkyTrak with the high-quality PerfectBay enclosure system. It’s one of the best deals you can get for a full simulator setup, including screen & enclosure, projector, mat, and high-quality launch monitor.
What Is Included
The SkyTrak PerfectBay Simulator features the SkyTrak Launch Monitor which uses a photometric (camera-based) tracking technology. Also included in the base package is:
- a basic driving range software plan
- a PerfectBay Golf Simulator Enclosure
- side netting
- 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.
There are many optional upgrades available with this package:
- You can choose a PerfectBay PLUS or PerfectBay WIDE enclosure.
- You can purchase an upgraded SkyTrak software plan.
- You can replace the Pro Turf mat with a Fiberbuilt hitting mat.
- You can choose an Optoma projector.
- You can add a projector floor mount enclosure or ceiling mount.
Because there is so much room to upgrade, golfers can find the optimal setup that works for them and that meets their budget. Minimum space dimensions of 12 ft wide x 9 ft high x 16 ft deep are required.
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.
5. FlightScope X3 SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
Are you looking for the best of the best simulator setup that will be able to fit in your space? Look no further than the FlightScope X3 SIG10 Simulator.
You can think of the X3 as a more powerful version of the Mevo+. Like the Mevo+, it comes with a bundled iOS version of E6 CONNECT, and it also integrates with the same software including Awesome Golf which is usable on Android and iOS.
This package pairs the X3 with The Indoor Golf Shop’s popular SIG10 enclosure which is almost 11 feet wide and which can accommodate the typical ceiling height of 9 feet.
What Is Included
The FlightScope X3 SIG10 Simulator package consists of the professional X3 radar and:
- 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
- 50 metallic stickers and a backpack
The X3 is capable of measuring over 50 full-swing, chipping and putting data parameters. It uses patented Fusion Tracking technology, which combines 3D radar and image processing for extremely high accuracy.
The X3 has powerful features such as the Environmental Optimizer (for adjusting weather conditions) and complete wedge D-Plane data. Most of the features of the X3 are accessed through the FlightScope VX app, which you can download for free on iPads and tablets.
The X3 is compatible with the same third-party software as the Mevo+, namely TGC 2019, E6 CONNECT, Creative Golf 3D, and Awesome Golf.
Room dimensions of at least 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 18 ft deep are recommended.
We guarantee you won’t be left wanting with this setup. For more details about what comes with the package, optional add-ons, pricing, and setup instructions, visit this page.
6. SkyTrak Flex Space Golf Simulator Package
This package from The Indoor Golf Shop pairs the iPad and tablet-friendly SkyTrak with a state-of-the-art HomeCourse retractable screen enclosure.
The attraction of this particular simulator is the ability of the screen to retract with the click of a button, allowing you to easily repurpose an indoor room (such as a basement or garage) or return it to its original form as needed.
The Indoor Golf Shop is also running a special offer that includes a free 12-month subscription to Golf Magazine with the purchase.
If you place a lot of importance on being able to repurpose your space, you should seriously consider this simulator.
What Is Included
The SkyTrak Flex Space Simulator Package comes with:
- SkyTrak Launch Monitor with protective case
- SkyTrak Game Improvement Software (upgrade from base)
- HomeCourse ProScreen 180 with ceiling mount kit
- a 1080p short throw golf simulator projector
- a SIGPRO Turf Mat
- projector floor mount enclosure
With the Entertainment Package (an extra $100), you get access to the SkyTrak Play & Improve software tier and all the benefits that brings.
The new and improved HomeCourse ProScreen 180 features side walls made of ballistic material. The Pro Arms can be optionally extended to create an ultra-wide 16:9 projectable area.
The retractable screen is wireless. The motor runs on a chargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts for months at a time, and the motor can be controlled with an included wireless remote.
The screen can be mounted to the ceiling or wall (wall mount kit sold separately). If your ceiling is higher than nine feet, we recommend wall mounting.
Room dimensions of 8.5 ft high x 12 ft wide x 12 ft deep are recommended.
Customers love the straightforward installation and how painless taking down the simulator is. It is commonly used in garages, but also in many other indoor spaces. For more details about what comes with the simulator, how exactly to set it up, and more, visit this page.
7. FlightScope Mevo Plus Training Package
Let’s include another simulator that uses the Mevo+ (which is ideal for iPads and iOS devices), but this time with a net setup.
This is an excellent golf simulator package for people who have a low-medium budget but want portability or have limited space in their home.
Put together by The Indoor Golf Shop, it pairs the Mevo+ Launch Monitor with a convenient SIGPRO net and turf system.
What Is Included
This package consists of FlightScope’s Mevo+ Launch Monitor along with (not limited to):
- a SIGPRO Golf Net
- SIGPRO Turf (6 ft x 10 ft)
- side barrier netting with sandbags
- your choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
- 50 metallic stickers
The SIGPRO Turf can be rolled up and stored like a carpet. It has excellent durability and you can hit any club in the bag off of it; you can even use it for putting!
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).
Space dimensions of 10 ft wide x 8 ft high x 15 ft deep are recommended.
Even without a screen and projector, you can achieve a similar feel by connecting to a TV through HDMI and positioning it behind the net. This is also an excellent golf simulator to set up outside.
Buying Guide
Investing in a quality golf simulator that can run on your iPad or tablet is a big step.
Because of this, it’s important to consider all the factors that will affect the experience and match it with what your goals and requirements are.
Here are the most important factors you need to consider when figuring out which simulator will be best for you:
1. Portability
If you want a golf simulator that will work on your iPad or tablet, chances are you’ll appreciate a portable unit that you can move around to different areas.
This is why it’s a good idea 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? Do you want to use your simulator outdoors?
Maybe you travel periodically and want to be able to take your simulator with you. Maybe you just want to pack it away during certain times of the year, like the 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.
Ceiling or ground-mounted tracking systems are out of the question unless the entire bay can be moved as one unit. In most cases, you’ll need a portable launch monitor like the SkyTrak or Mevo+.
2. Size
Size is obviously a critically important factor in golf simulators. You need to have a clear understanding of the space available to contain the simulator.
Measure the width, length and height of your space and compare it to the minimum space requirements of every golf simulator you look at.
In general, full golf simulator setups will need about 9 feet of height, 12 feet of width, and 15 feet of depth, but there are more compact options. Whichever space you plan for your simulator should be able to easily accommodate this.
3. Net Vs. Screen
There are generally two options when it comes to golf simulators:
- You can project your shots onto a life-size screen.
- 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.
Not only are net setups considerably cheaper, but nets are also very portable and can easily be moved out of the way to create more space in a pinch.
If the full golf simulator experience is important to you and you want to feel like you’re playing a real-life simulation, then you’ll probably want to invest in a screen and projector setup.
On the other hand, if you’re satisfied with seeing your shot data and ball flight directly on your iPad or tablet, then you should go with a net.
4. Simulator Software
The software options that are available to you on iPads and tablets are much more limited than on a PC, because PCs are more powerful. Nonetheless, there are still a few things to think about.
SkyTrak, for example, has software in three membership levels:
- Basic Plan: contains a practice driving range.
- Game-Improvement Plan: contains minigames, numeric display, and many other advanced features.
- Play & Improve Plan: contains all features of other plans plus full integration with WGT (World Golf Tour).
Whichever package you go with, there is full compatibility with iPads and tablets. In addition, SkyTrak offers two simulation plans that are compatible with iOS, Android, or both: E6 CONNECT and WGT Golf.
Unfortunately, most simulators are not compatible with the iOS version of E6, which is why there are only a few realistic options available to you.
Two of the only other golf simulator softwares out there that are able to run on iPads and tablets are Home Tee Hero, which is exclusive to the Approach R10, and Awesome Golf, which is only compatible with FlightScope and Garmin devices.
So, as you can see, there are only a few software options you can choose from for your mobile device.
What software features do you see yourself using most often? Do you just want to practice on the range, play world-class courses, or both? Consider what software options are available when looking at simulators, and make your decisions accordingly.
5. Budget
Of course, your budget is very important when shopping for a golf simulator. Not everyone can afford simulator packages that cost $10,000; fortunately, there are options that cost well below this amount.
Simulators that run on iPads and tablets tend to be less expensive than higher-end solutions that need the power that only a PC can provide. But it’s important to realize that the less you spend, the less you’ll usually get, both in terms of equipment and software.
In this guide, we’ve tried to include quality golf simulators over a wide range of budgets that would work well on iPads and tablets. 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
Finding quality golf simulators that are compatible with iPads and tablets is certainly possible, although you won’t have as many options as you would for a PC.
The best, most affordable options that run on both iOS and Android are the SkyTrak, Approach R10, and Mevo+.
A quality, reliable golf simulator can be a huge boon to your golf toolkit. Each of the simulator options reviewed above offer excellent value for the cost; now it falls to you to make a decision.
While it’s likely that no golf simulator setup will satisfy your every desire, 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. Do you have an iPad or Android tablet? Which golf simulator are you considering for it? Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
