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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 and apps 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.
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 iPads & Tablets
The following are our top selections based on our own testing, research, and experience:
- Carl’s Mevo Gen2 Golf Simulator Package
- SkyTrak Plus Golf Net Practice Bundle
- Carl’s EYE MINI Golf Simulator Package
- Garmin Approach R10 Home Golf Simulator Package
- Rapsodo MLM2PRO PlayBetter SimStudio Package
- Full Swing KIT Golf Net Practice Bundle
- Square Golf PlayBetter SimStudio Package
- Uneekor EYE MINI LITE SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
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. Carl’s Mevo Gen2 Golf Simulator Package
The Mevo Gen2 is a versatile consumer-tier launch monitor equipped with Doppler radar and Fusion Tracking technology. It boasts upgraded hardware and accuracy compared to the older Mevo+ system.
Included with the Mevo Gen2 is a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT that is usable on iOS devices. In addition, the Awesome Golf software that can integrate with the Mevo Gen2 is usable on iOS and Android devices.
This studio package by Carl’s Place, designed for home use, is one of the best to pair with the Mevo Gen2. 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, the setup 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 Carl’s Mevo Gen2 simulator package includes:
- a FlightScope Mevo Gen2 launch monitor
- a Carl’s Place DIY Enclosure with impact screen (six size options)
- a Carl’s HotShot 4’x9′ hitting mat (double-sided)
- your choice of HD golf simulator projector
- a projector ceiling mount
- a golf simulator computer (optional)
Measuring 18 data points and coming with high-quality simulation courses out of the box, the Mevo Gen2 is comparable to the SkyTrak+ and Mevo+ but is even more affordable.
The Mevo Gen2 can be used with the free FS Golf app or FS Golf for PC, giving you real-time performance data, saving of sessions, skills challenges, and more. Access to third-party solutions Creative Golf, Awesome Golf, GSPro, E6 CONNECT, and E6 APEX are also available, and eight E6 CONNECT courses (iOS/PC) are included with the device at no extra cost.
At the time of writing, you can choose between the BenQ AH700ST and BenQ AK700ST 4K projectors, both of which are designed with golf simulation in mind. Just hook your iPad or tablet up to the projector to get a life-size simulation experience.
Carl’s Place recommends that you have at least 19 feet of depth for this setup. The Mevo Gen2 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 Gen2 is accurate and highly affordable, and Carl’s Place is there to help you every step of the way.
2. SkyTrak Plus Golf Net Practice Bundle
The SkyTrak Plus (ST+) is an excellent launch monitor for iPad and tablet compatibility, and like its predecessor, it’s also one of the best launch monitors overall in terms of its value/cost ratio.
The default in-house software that comes with the SkyTrak+ is known for its excellent Android and iOS compatibility.
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.
What Is Included
This package features the SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor, an upgrade to the original SkyTrak that introduces a faster processor, dual Doppler radar capability, club data, upgraded software, and other improvements. No club or ball stickers are needed to measure any data points.
This is paired with your choice of golf net by The Indoor Golf Shop. Options include square, rectangular or rounded nets as well as a premium SIGPRO Golf Net which has an aluminum frame with a snap-button system. Able to withstand ball speeds of 225 mph, the SIGPRO is easy to assemble, collapsible, and can even attach with a SIG Preferred Impact Screen for projector use.
You can also add SIGPRO Turf (6 ft x 10 ft) or one of The Indoor Golf Shop’s premium hitting mats such as the SIGPRO Softy, available in a range of sizes, to the package.
The package includes one year of the SkyTrak Essential Plan, which gives you access to all available training and feedback tools, an enhanced driving range, and compatibility for Course Play powered by Trackman or Foresight Sports. Course Play is available for both iOS and Android, in addition to PC.
Exact space requirements will depend on the components selected, but you’ll need to be able to make an unimpeded swing with your longest club. Get shipping details here.
3. Carl’s EYE MINI Golf Simulator Package
You can think of the Uneekor EYE MINI as a portable EYE XO with an on-board display. This fantastic launch monitor comes bundled with Uneekor’s View software which is available for iOS, meaning you can use it on your iPad.
This package, put together by Carl’s Place, pairs the EYE MINI with Carl’s unique DIY Enclosure available in a range of different sizes.
In spite of all you’re getting including a high-end launch monitor, swing cameras and a 4K UHD projector, this package remarkably manages to stay under $10,000 in cost. We recommend taking advantage while you still can.
What Is Included
The Carl’s EYE MINI simulator package includes:
- a Uneekor EYE MINI launch monitor
- a Carl’s Place DIY Enclosure with impact screen (six size options)
- a Carl’s HotShot 4’x9′ hitting mat (double-sided)
- a BenQ TK710STi 4K short throw projector
- a projector ceiling mount
- a Carl’s Swing Camera set with optional accessories
- a golf simulator computer (optional)
The EYE MINI is a portable launch monitor that contains two high-speed infrared cameras and measures an array of ball and club data. It boasts Club Optix technology which allows you to view slow-motion closeups of the club impacting the ball.
The included HotShot Mat — soft, high-quality and durable — has a pre-cut replaceable hitting strip that can be swapped out once sufficiently worn. Carl’s Place sells these hitting strips separately for your convenience.
In conjunction with the Uneekor View software, you can use the swing cameras to analyze your swing from a multitude of different angles. The included BenQ projector can output at 4K UHD (3840×2160) resolution, but because it’s non-laser, it’s relatively affordable.
The third-party software compatible with the EYE MINI are E6 CONNECT, TGC 2019, and GSPro, but you’ll need a paid Uneekor subscription to set this up. You can also use the launch monitor with Uneekor’s new GameDay software.
To install the setup, you’ll need enough space to fit the enclosure size you choose, mount the projector, and swing your longest club (driver) unimpeded.
This fantastic golf simulator package gives you portability, a wide range of data points, reliability, accuracy, and plenty of features for game improvement and entertainment. For full details on what’s included, go here.
4. Garmin Approach R10 Home Golf Simulator Package
The Garmin Approach R10 made big waves in the industry when it launched. 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 Gen2, it comes with a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT for iOS.
- 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 Top Shelf Golf combines the R10 with a high-quality hitting net and mat by The Net Return. It’s extremely affordable, coming in at less than $2000.
This setup is great for indoor use, but it’s also ideal for hitting balls out on the deck, on the lawn, or at outdoor events.
What Is Included
The R10 Home Package features the Approach R10 Launch Monitor and a trimmed iOS version of E6 CONNECT with practice ranges, a darts mini-game, and five golf courses. Also included is:
- The Net Return Home Series Golf Net
- The Net Return Pro Turf
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.
The Home Series Net is basically the same as the Pro Series net except it’s slightly smaller. As one of the best hitting nets on the market, it boasts automatic ball return and extreme durability that can handle shots up to 225 mph. Its dimensions are 7’H x 7’W x 3.5’D.
The Pro Turf Mat is ten feet long and provides continuous ball return from the screen back to the hitting area. It doubles as a putting green and rolls up and stores like a carpet.
Available customization options for this package include the following:
- You can replace the Pro Turf Mat with a Fiberbuilt hitting mat.
- You can replace the Home Net with a Pro or large Pro net.
- You can add side barrier netting.
Home Tee Hero, E6 CONNECT, The Golf Club 2019, Creative Golf, and Awesome Golf can all be played on the R10 at extra cost. You can even use an app called PinSeeker with E6 CONNECT that allows you to win prizes competing in closest-to-the-pin tournaments.
It’s recommended to have a space that is at least 10 ft wide x 8.5 ft high x 16 ft deep to set up this package.
Even without a screen and projector, you can achieve a simulator feel by mirroring or casting your smartphone to your TV and positioning the TV behind the net.
5. Rapsodo MLM2PRO PlayBetter SimStudio Package
The MLM2PRO by Rapsodo is a radar-based launch monitor that is very similar to the Approach R10 when it comes to affordability.
The MLM2PRO is designed to address the common pain points users had in the previous generation with the MLM. In particular, its companion app is now usable on both iPads and Android tablets, and there are several golf simulation options available for both systems.
This all-inclusive simulator package by reputable golf vendor PlayBetter manages to offer a blackout enclosure and screen, hitting mat, landing turf and projector with the MLM2PRO for under $5000.
What Is Included
The MLM2PRO PlayBetter SimStudio Package includes:
- an MLM2PRO launch monitor
- a PlayBetter SimStudio full hitting bay (four size options)
- an HD short throw projector
- a projector mount
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. The enclosure is available in four sizes and can be as large as 13 ft wide x 10 ft high x 10 ft deep.
The MLM2PRO combines Doppler radar with two high-speed cameras. The device measures 13 club and ball parameters and can even measure spin directly with the use of included RPT balls.
This launch monitor offers two unique features called Impact Vision and Shot Vision. The former provides a slow-motion closeup of the club swinging through the ball, while the latter gives a down-the-line video of your shot with a ball tracer.
You can also enjoy golf simulation with the MLM2PRO through:
- Rapsodo Range: via MLM2PRO app for iOS or Android
- Rapsodo Courses: via MLM2PRO app for iOS or Android
- Target Range: via MLM2PRO app for iOS or Android
- E6 CONNECT: for iOS or PC
- Awesome Golf: for iOS, Android or PC
You can expect the projector included with this package to be minimum HD quality and put out enough lumens for a bright experience.
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. In addition, you’ll need at least 15-16 feet of depth to accommodate the radar-based MLM2PRO.
For full details about this simulator package, check out this page.
6. Full Swing KIT Golf Net Practice Bundle
This simulator is special because it features the Full Swing KIT launch monitor which has been endorsed and used personally by high-profile golfers that include Tiger Woods and Jon Rahm.
The KIT was built at Woods’ request and according to his standards. It happens to integrate with the iOS version of E6 CONNECT, so if you have an iPad, this is the way to go.
This package combines the KIT with your choice of robust net & mat system by The Indoor Golf Shop. The accuracy of the KIT is comparable to top-end launch monitors but is thousands of dollars less expensive, 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) along with your choice of golf net (six options), optional SIGPRO 6’x10′ turf, and optional choice of premium golf mat (ten options).
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. The Perpetual Package included in this sim package provides practice areas and five courses with no subscription fee.
The KIT also pairs with a companion app (iOS) that allows you to view your historical shot data, store video, track trends, manage your clubs and bag, and utilize an AI shot evaluation technology called FS Combine powered by Clippd.
Space dimensions of 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 18 ft deep are recommended. The length of the SIGPRO Turf allows for continuous ball return, and the mat can be rolled up and stored like a carpet.
The pro-endorsed KIT has an extensive parameter set, and the app is very useful and intuitive for practice sessions. It really is an ideal launch monitor for players who own an iPad.
7. Square Golf PlayBetter SimStudio Package
The Square Golf launch monitor is a unique system. Unlike other budget launch monitors in its price range like the Approach R10 and MLM2PRO, it’s camera-based and sits in front of the golfer.
The system measures an array of ball and club parameters and is the only launch monitor in its price range to directly measure club path. Importantly, there is plenty of iPad and tablet compatibility with the system across the in-house Square Golf software and third-party integrations E6 CONNECT and Awesome Golf.
This all-inclusive simulator package by PlayBetter pairs the Square with their excellent SimStudio system.
What Is Included
The Square Golf PlayBetter SimStudio Package includes:
- a Square Golf launch monitor w/ swing stick, dotted balls, and remote control
- a PlayBetter SimStudio full hitting bay
- an HD short throw projector
- a projector mount
Four sizes are offered: the SimStudio8 (8’x7.5’x4′), SimStudio10 (10’x8.5’x5.25′), SimStudio12 (12’x8.5’x5.25′), and SimStudio13 Deep (13’x10’x10′). With the SimStudio8, the projector is mounted on the ground.
While the Square can be used with real clubs (we recommend this whenever possible), it comes with a swing stick which can optionally be used for quick, convenient practice sessions. Included marked balls and club tape allow the device to measure spin and club path, respectively.
The Square not only comes with comprehensive simulator software, course play (10+ courses), and putting support out of the box, but it can also integrate with E6 CONNECT, E6 APEX, GSPro, and Awesome Golf.
Your space for this setup will need to fit whatever size enclosure you choose (8-13 ft width and 7.5-10 ft high), and you’ll need to be able to make a swing with your longest club.
The Square is probably the best budget (sub-$1000) system that utilizes high-speed cameras. For full details about this sim package, visit this page.
8. Uneekor EYE MINI LITE SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
The EYE MINI LITE uses the same fundamental tracking technology of its bigger brother, the EYE MINI, and has the same software compatibility including an iOS version of View.
However, because it lacks an onboard display, must be connected to a power source at all times, and lacks some other features, it can be priced at under $3000, bringing it within reach of many more golfers.
This package pairs The Indoor Golf Shop’s popular SIG10 studio with the EYE MINI LITE. We think it’s one of the best EYE MINI LITE sim packages on the market today.
What Is Included
The EYE MINI LITE SIG10 simulator includes the EYE MINI LITE system along with:
- a SIG10 simulator screen & enclosure
- your choice of golf simulator projector
- landing pad turf
- a choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′, 4’x10′, or full flooring)
Like its bigger brother, the EYE MINI, the EYE MINI LITE boasts dual high-speed infrared cameras, Club Optix slow-motion impact capture, and all the other benefits that can be accessed via the Uneekor View software.
The system is compatible with E6 CONNECT, TGC 2019 and GSPro with a paid Uneekor subscription, but if you want to use an iPad or tablet with the EYE MINI LITE, you’ll be mostly limited to the View software.
The Indoor Golf Shop also allows you to easily add third-party software, side barrier netting, a gaming PC, or a blackout screen to the package with one click.
Minimum space requirements for this setup are 8.5 ft high x 11 ft wide x 15 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.
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 such as a basement or garage? 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 a SkyTrak+ or Mevo Gen2.
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 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 an enclosure 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 since PCs are more powerful. Nonetheless, there are still a few things to think about.
SkyTrak, as an example, comes in a basic plan, which gives you a practice driving range, and an Essential Plan which gives you minigames, numeric display, and many other advanced features. Whichever SkyTrak plan you go with, there is full compatibility with iPads and tablets.
Two other notable golf simulator software out there that are able to run on iPads and tablets are Home Tee Hero, which is exclusive to the Garmin R10, and Awesome Golf, which integrates with launch monitors from brands such as FlightScope, Garmin, and Foresight Sports.
So, when it comes to actual golf simulation, there are only a few third-party software options you can choose from.
However, practically all launch monitor companion apps run on iOS. For example, the Uneekor View software has an iOS version, and in it, you can view your simulated ball flight on the range and access various analysis features.
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 and app 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 are often less expensive than higher-end solutions that need the power 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 with a PC.
Some of the best, most affordable options that run on both iOS and Android include the SkyTrak+, Approach R10, and Mevo Gen2.
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.
