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Most people think of golf simulators as being for the indoors, but that’s not necessarily true. There’s no rule that says golf simulators can’t be used outdoors as well.
Many people may not have the space indoors to set up a simulator and want to play in their backyard. Others may be organizing outdoor golfing events and need simulators for that.
Whatever your reasons are for wanting an outdoor golf simulator, not everyone can afford to invest in one 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 an outdoor golf simulator, 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 impact screen, and optionally, a projector that displays software on a life-size screen.
If you want a full enclosure with screen and projector, you should also have wall and ceiling supports that will protect the simulator from rain, wind, and other weather conditions.
In this article, we’ll review and compare our picks for the best outdoor golf simulators over 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 Outdoor Use
The following are our top selections based on our own testing, research, and experience:
- FlightScope Mevo Plus Training Golf Simulator Package
- Rapsodo MLM2PRO Practice Golf Simulator Package
- Uneekor EYE MINI Practice Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope X3 Training Golf Simulator Package
- Garmin Approach R10 Practice Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope Mevo Plus Bronze Golf Simulator Package
- Foresight Sports GCQuad Home Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope X3 Bronze Golf Simulator Package
1. FlightScope Mevo Plus Training Golf Simulator Package
What makes the Mevo Plus Training Package our #1 pick for outdoor simulator are the components and the affordability.
First, this simulator utilizes the Mevo Plus launch monitor, which is widely regarded as having the best outdoor performance in its price range.
Second, the package includes a quality SIGPRO hitting net, and let’s face it: if you want an outdoor golf simulator, you’re going to have to use a net in the vast majority of cases.
Whether you’re a skilled golfer or a high-handicapper that wants to get better, you can use this affordable simulator to hone your game outdoors while viewing precise Mevo+ shot simulation and data on a mobile device or laptop.
What Is Included
This package features the FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 Edition Launch Monitor. The Mevo+ uses radar technology which is not affected by sunlight, making its performance very reliable outdoors.
This is paired with the SIGPRO Golf Net by The Indoor Golf Shop which 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:
- a carrying case for the Mevo+
- side barrier netting
- SIGPRO 6’x10′ landing pad turf
- your choice of hitting mat (4’x7′, 4’x10′ or 5’x5′)
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).
The Mevo+ comes with a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT for iOS or PC that features practice ranges, a darts mini-game, and ten golf courses. It can also be used with the free FS Golf app, giving you real-time performance data, session saving, skills challenges, and more.
Access to third-party solutions The Golf Club 2019, Creative Golf 3D, Awesome Golf, and GSPro is available at extra cost.
We recommend space dimensions of at least 8.5 ft high x 10 ft wide x 16 ft deep for this simulator package. Setup is pretty easy, and you can contact support anytime if you need help.
2. Rapsodo MLM2PRO Practice Golf Simulator Package
The MLM2PRO by Rapsodo is a radar-based launch monitor that not only delivers very strong performance outdoors, but is also extremely affordable. The result here is a simulator setup that costs less than $2000!
The MLM2PRO is designed to improve on the best aspects of its predecessor, the Rapsodo MLM, while addressing the common pain points users had in the previous generation. It might just be the most accurate ultra-budget launch monitor on the market right now.
This package by Rain or Shine Golf is another net setup that works very well outdoors.
What Is Included
The MLM2PRO Practice Package pairs the MLM2PRO with either:
- GoSports ELITE Net: 7.5 ft x 7.5 ft, durable steel frame, automatic ball return, can handle shots up to 225 mph
- RS Tour Golf Net: 7 ft x 9 ft, easy assembly, more affordable, hanging hitting target included
Also included in the package are your choice of SwingTurf hitting mat and optional landing pad turf.
The MLM2PRO launch monitor combines Doppler radar with two high-speed cameras. It measures 13 club and ball parameters and can even measure spin directly with the use of included Callaway 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, Rapsodo Courses, E6 CONNECT, and Awesome Golf.
The included SwingTurf hitting mat offers an optimal balance between realistic fairway-like feel and forgiveness.
Minimum space requirements for this setup are 8 ft high x 9 ft wide x 16 ft deep. We love its versatility, convenience, and portability, and the cost is in reach of most golfers.
3. Uneekor EYE MINI Practice Golf Simulator Package
You can think of the Uneekor EYE MINI as a portable EYE XO with an on-board display. It may not be quite as powerful as the EYE XO in terms of features and data points, but it’s considerably more affordable and its accuracy is pretty much just as good.
This package, put together by Rain or Shine Golf, pairs the EYE MINI with your choice of two quality hitting nets.
With its onboard display, rugged design, and integration with software for both iOS and PC devices, the EYE MINI is ideally suited for outdoor use.
What Is Included
The EYE MINI Practice Package consists of:
- a Uneekor EYE MINI Launch Monitor with carrying case and strap
- your choice of GoSports ELITE or RS Tour Golf hitting net
- a SwingTurf hitting mat (4’x9′ or 5’x5′)
- landing pad turf (optional)
- a gaming laptop optimized for golf simulation (optional)
The EYE MINI 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, and its onboard E Ink backlit display is easily readable in sunlight.
An optional gaming laptop contains a fast processor and powerful graphics card, allowing golf simulator software to be run smoothly with no freezing or lagging.
The EYE MINI integrates with Uneekor’s excellent in-house View software as well as E6 CONNECT, GSPro, and TGC 2019.
Space dimensions of at least 8.5 ft high x 11 ft wide by 15 ft deep are recommended, although because the EYE MINI sits a couple feet in front of you, all you really need is enough room to swing your longest club.
You can consider the EYE MINI as a step up from the Mevo+, moving into the professional tier. This makes this versatile net setup one of the strongest choices for an outdoor simulator.
4. FlightScope X3 Training Golf Simulator Package
If you’re looking for the absolute best data measurement and simulation experience possible outdoors, you can’t get much better than the FlightScope X3.
The X3, like the Mevo+, is a radar-based launch monitor, but it’s on a whole other level, essentially matching the performance of the renowned TrackMan 4. It’s pricey, but if you can afford it, you’ll reap serious rewards.
This package pairs the X3 with the robust SIGPRO net & mat system by The Indoor Golf Shop.
What Is Included
This package consists of the FlightScope X3 launch monitor along with (not limited to):
- a SIGPRO Golf Net
- SIGPRO Turf (6 ft x 10 ft)
- side barrier netting with sandbags
- cables, a backpack, and various accessories
- your choice of a hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
The X3, which can track over 50 data parameters, is compatible with The Golf Club 2019, E6 CONNECT, Awesome Golf, and GSPro. A slew of additional features are unlocked through the FlightScope VX app, which you can download for free on iOS and Android devices.
The X3 has a powerful feature called the Environmental Optimizer, which allows you to modify factors like altitude, wind speed, humidity, and air temperature. This helps you understand how weather and climate variables affect your shots. The X3 also provides wedge D-Plane data.
Space dimensions of 10 ft wide x 8 ft high x 15 ft deep are recommended.
The X3 is a really powerful launch monitor, and you’ll be amazed at how much you can do with it. Just give it a try.
5. Garmin Approach R10 Practice Golf Simulator
A less expensive but very comparable alternative to the MLM2PRO launch monitor is the Garmin Approach R10.
The radar-based 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, as it was the first launch monitor under $1000 to offer golf simulation.
One of the best outdoor net packages you can get with the R10 is Rain or Shine Golf’s Practice Package with SwingTurf mat along with a choice between two high-quality hitting nets.
What Is Included
The Garmin Approach R10 Practice Simulator Package comes with:
- an Approach R10 launch monitor with carry case
- a Garmin Golf Membership trial
- landing pad turf (optional)
- your choice of GoSports ELITE or RS Tour Golf hitting net
- a SwingTurf hitting mat
The Approach R10 rests on a tripod mount and is placed 6-8 feet behind the ball. It provides readings for well over 10 data parameters and integrates with E6 CONNECT, Awesome Golf, The Golf Club 2019, and Home Tee Hero.
Also, through the Garmin Golf companion app, you can do things like view club performance data, participate in weekly tournaments, and share your results. An included trial to the premium version adds green contours, Home Tee Hero access, and video clip cloud storage.
Space dimensions of 8 ft high x 9 ft wide x 16 ft deep are recommended.
The R10 is a proven winner in the low-budget launch monitor space, and unlike the MLM2PRO, an app subscription is not required to access the majority of its features. For more details about what comes with this simulator package, how exactly to set it up, and more, visit this page.
6. FlightScope Mevo Plus Bronze Golf Simulator Package
It can be challenging to achieve a full outdoor golf simulator setup with screen and projector, but it’s doable. One of the easiest ways to pull it off is with the SIGPRO Net, SIG Preferred Screen, and side barriers as part of The Indoor Golf Shop’s Bronze package.
It’s compact, portable, and doesn’t require an overhang because the projector is mounted on the floor, although having a ceiling support would certainly be beneficial.
This particular package uses the Mevo+ launch monitor which is ideal for outdoor use.
What Is Included
The Mevo+ Bronze package takes the Mevo+ 2023 Edition launch monitor and combines it with the SIGPRO Golf Net and SIG Preferred impact screen. The screen is designed to hang directly over the net from a crossbar.
Also included are:
- an E6 CONNECT software plan with 10 courses & 17 practice ranges
- a short throw golf simulator projector
- SIGPRO Turf (6 ft x 10 ft)
- a projector floor mount shield
- side barriers
- your choice of a hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
The length of the SIGPRO Turf allows for continuous ball return. The mat can be rolled up and stored like a carpet.
The projector is guaranteed to output at least 4000 lumens. This is generous, but results will be better if you can block out some light with dark curtains or wait until evening or night time.
The recommended space size is at least 8 ft high x 10 ft wide x 15 ft deep.
Mevo Plus users love the value you get for the money: excellent accuracy, great software, and convenience. Plus, The Indoor Golf Shop customer support is superb.
For more information about the package, and to discuss how you can make it work for your outdoor space, go here.
7. Foresight Sports GCQuad Home Golf Simulator Package
You may have figured out by now that we love recommending net setups for outdoor use since they are much more practical than enclosures and projectors.
This net package by Top Shelf Golf features the GCQuad. This is a highly advanced and accurate launch monitor that uses a quadrascopic camera system and has been relied on for shot data by pro golfers like Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm and Phil Mickelson.
The GCQuad has the edge indoors when it comes to reliability, but it also works beautifully outdoors, even in direct sunlight. It is considered the “Rolls-Royce” of portable launch monitors.
What Is Included
This package pairs the GCQuad Launch Monitor with the outdoor-friendly Net Return Home or Pro Series V2 hitting net.
The following optional one-click upgrades are available:
- You can upgrade to the larger Pro Series V2 Net or even larger Pro V2 Large Net.
- You can add “No Fly Zone” extension netting above the net.
- You can add side barrier netting.
- You can upgrade to a Fiberbuilt single-hitting, center-hitting, or combo mat.
- You can add the Club Analysis or Essential Putting Analysis add-ons.
The GCQuad measures five ball data parameters. The club data add-on unlocks an array of club data parameters, and the unit is also capable of measuring detailed putting data with the putting add-on.
The GCQuad 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 net that comes with this package has a high-quality, durable construction and returns the ball back to your feet after every shot.
Space dimensions of 10 ft wide x 8.5 ft high x 12 ft deep are recommended. Top Shelf Golf has a proven track record with many happy customers, so you can be assured that you’re getting your money’s worth.
The versatility of the GCQuad allows you to use it at the range, in the backyard, or indoors as you please, and its power is unmatched. It’s a simple fact that nobody who gets a GCQuad regrets their purchase.
8. FlightScope X3 Bronze Golf Simulator Package
If you’re interested in a screen and projector setup for outdoor use but you want a top-of-the-line radar launch monitor that is more powerful than the Mevo+, check this out.
This package pairs the professional-tier FlightScope X3 launch monitor with the SIGPRO Net, Turf and side barriers as part of The Indoor Golf Shop’s Bronze package.
One of the best environments for this kind of setup is a covered area with walls and a ceiling, such as a golf simulator shed.
What Is Included
The X3 Bronze package takes the X3 launch monitor and combines it with:
- a SIGPRO Golf Net
- SIGPRO Turf (6 ft x 10 ft)
- a short throw golf simulator projector
- a projector floor mount enclosure
- your choice of a hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
- side barriers
- metallic stickers
The X3 measures over 50 data parameters, and in addition to the standard stuff. This is done with the help of patented Fusion Tracking technology, which combines 3D radar and image processing for extremely high accuracy.
With the X3, you can set up multiple camera feeds and then sync the multi-angle video with radar data on every shot.
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).
The recommended size of space is at least 8 ft high x 10 ft wide x 15 ft deep. You can buy a projector ceiling mount here if you want to go that route.
Buying Guide
Investing in a golf simulator is a big deal. 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 determining which golf simulator will best meet your outdoor needs:
1. Portability & Resilience
If you plan to use your golf simulator outdoors, we highly recommend you look at simpler, more mobile setups — namely, a hitting net and hitting mat.
Full enclosure setups with projectors are less portable and more difficult to pull off outdoors. On top of that, they may not be able to withstand weather conditions like low temperatures, wind, rain, snow, and even hail.
With a straightforward hitting net, hitting mat, and simulator system like the Mevo+, you can quickly and easily set up outdoors when weather permits, and pull it down when the weather is less than ideal. These portable setups can also be used indoors if desired.
There are exceptions. Full net enclosures like the Cimarron Masters are very sturdy, can withstand most weather, and can be left where they are year-round.
Consider how well your simulator can endure weather, and think about what you’ll need structurally to achieve the setup.
2. Technology
If the technology that powers your golf simulator isn’t suited for the outdoors, then it may not work properly in certain conditions. Technology may include infrared sensors, high-speed cameras, or radar.
For example, the original SkyTrak is marketed as being suitable for use indoors and outdoors. In reality, it’s better indoors because its photometric camera-based system is sensitive to direct sunlight.
The Mevo+, MLM2PRO and Approach R10, in contrast, are Doppler radar systems that have little to no issue outdoors. Because these systems emit microwave signals that bounce back from the golf ball after impact, they are not affected by lighting conditions.
With any simulator you look at, take note of the tracking system it uses and verify that it can perform optimally outdoors.
3. Size
Size is an essential factor in golf simulators, but perhaps less so if you’re using it outdoors.
Do you plan to have your simulator in a garage? In a shed? On your back patio? On your lawn? Depending on where you intend to put it, you may have plenty of room and not really have to worry about size.
Wherever the outdoor location is, make sure that they can accommodate the minimum space requirements of every golf simulator you look at. Also make sure you can make a full swing with your driver unimpeded.
Typical golf simulator setups tend to be about 8.5 feet high, 10 feet wide, and 12-15 feet deep.
4. Projector Vs. No Projector
In addition to what we mentioned above, projectors are less effective outdoors because the daylight tends to wash out the picture. The picture will be bright and clear when it’s dark, but playing outside in darkness may come with its own challenges.
This is why, if you plan to use a projector outdoors, it should have a high lumens rating of at least 4000. The higher, the better.
Moreover, you need to figure out where you will mount the projector and how far away from the screen it should be to get the best picture.
It’s usually best to use a projector floor mount outdoors, but if you want to mount it on the ceiling, you’ll probably need some kind of awning, canopy, or other covered area.
All things considered, it can be a hassle to set up a screen and projector outdoors. The ideal situation is having a completely covered area (even better with walls) that is mostly or entirely protected from the weather.
With just a net, there’s much less to worry about. You can just start hitting balls right away, and you’ll be able to view your shot data and/or simulation on your laptop or mobile device.
An interesting fact is that more than 50% of all golf simulator owners use a net instead of a screen.
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, The Mevo+ comes with a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT that allows you to play various courses and games, although you can purchase a full license to the software that unlocks all features.
The Mevo+ and X3 also integrate with The Golf Club 2019 which allows you to play over 150,000 courses, local multiplayer, online, short game practice, and more.
The GCQuad’s FSX software allows you to play skills challenges and many of the world’s best courses.
View is Uneekor’s in-house software that offers a 3D driving range, various practice modes, course modes, game modes, slow-motion video of impact, and more.
Other software possibilities are The Golf Club, Fitness Golf, Creative Golf 3D, Awesome Golf, and GSPro.
What software features do you see yourself using most often? Do you want to practice on a virtual range, play world-class courses, or just see your shot data and nothing more? Your answers to these questions will help narrow down your choices.
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, many of the best options for an outdoor experience cost much less than this amount.
With that said, it’s important to realize that the less you spend, the more the equipment and the software will suffer.
In this guide, we’ve tried to include quality golf simulators over a wide range of budgets. 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 golfers than ever before have been able to have their own setup in their home or backyard.
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? Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
Thank you for the very clear presentation and direction.
Highly appreciated
Glad to help, Peter.
I have been informed by the manufacturers that the Optishot2 system can not be used outside as it does not work in sunlight.
Best Wishes,
Dave Pope
Hi David. It’s true that the OptiShot doesn’t work properly in direct sunlight, and it doesn’t work well in indirect sunlight either. However, it can work very well at night, and it would be even better if you’re able to get some LED or fluorescent lighting shining on the area. You can also use the OptiShot outdoors in something like a garage or an outdoor canopy.
The OptiShot can be used outdoors but it can be more challenging to achieve a setup that works. We wanted to include it because of its affordability.
The Optishot 2 in a box does NOT work outside, it should not be on this list. I purchased it due to it being on this list received it and it works fine indoors but is not for use outside.
Hi Jocelyn. I addressed this very matter in a previous comment, so you can refer to that. Sorry for the confusion; we’ll update that part of the article to provide some clarification.
hello, i am interested in a system for commercial use, that can read the ball trajectory, play courses, etc, For a driving range, outdoor.
Hi Daniel. If by “ball trajectory”, you mean an active shot tracer that follows the ball from impact to landing on the range, your best bet would be the Rapsodo MLM. But this works by recording the actual shot and adding a tracer overlay to the recording, so there would be no virtual software element involved.
The other option is using a launch monitor that is compatible with simulation software and works well outdoors, like the FlightScope Mevo+. You can connect the launch monitor to a display device like an iPad or laptop, and once the shot is hit and it flies down range, you’ll be able to see the simulation on the device. Launch monitors like the Mevo+ are compatible with simulator software like E6 CONNECT and The Golf Club, which have tons of features including full course play. But for commercial purposes, you might want to take a step up from the Mevo+ and use something like the FlightScope X3, Ernest Sports ES15 Range, or Foresight Sports GCQuad. You can inquire about compatible software for each of these options individually.