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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 at any time of the year.
At the same time, many golfers want a high-quality simulator experience, and they’re willing to spend up to $10,000 for it. If this is you, then you’ve come to the right place.
As golf simulator technology has advanced and improved, high-performance solutions that can accommodate a wide range of budgets have appeared on the market.
In this article, we’ll review and compare our picks for the best golf simulators under $10,000.
At this budget, it’s quite easy to achieve a full simulator setup that includes an enclosure, screen, projector, and high-quality launch monitor, particularly with certain brands.
You’ll not only have a fun experience with these simulators, but you’ll also be able to get precise feedback that will allow you to hit the ball farther, straighter, and improve your game.
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 Under $10,000
Based on our own testing, research, and experience, here are our top selections:
- SkyTrak Plus SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope Mevo Plus SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
- Carl’s Place EYE MINI Golf Simulator Package
- TruGolf Vista 8 Golf Simulator
- Bushnell Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package
- SkyTrak Plus Flex Space Golf Simulator Package
- Garmin Approach R10 PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope Mevo Plus Practice Golf Simulator Package
1. SkyTrak Plus SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
This simulator package, put together by The Indoor Golf Shop, pulls out all the stops for less than $10,000. It uses the SkyTrak Plus, an upgraded version of arguably the most successful consumer-level launch monitor on the market.
The ST+ system makes a number of improvements over the original SkyTrak including the addition of club data, a faster processor, greatly improved outdoor performance, and additional courses in the software. Best of all, no club or ball stickers are needed to measure any data points!
The SIG10 Plus simulator offers one of the best balances between quality, affordability and performance that we’ve seen. It can accommodate most indoor spaces which have a ceiling height of around 9 feet.
With this powerful simulator setup, you can count on being able to dial in your swing and take your game to the next level.
What Is Included
The SkyTrak+ SIG10 package consists of the SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor and a high-quality SIG10 simulator screen and enclosure (designed by The Indoor Golf Shop) that is handcrafted in the USA.
The ST+ adds a new dual Doppler radar system which combines with an improved photometric camera system and machine-learning software to bring the ST+ to a new level of accuracy and comprehensive data measurement.
Also included are:
- your choice of a hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
- golf simulator projector
- ceiling projector mount
- landing pad turf
- side barrier netting
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 15 world-class World Golf Tour (WGT) golf courses and 15 E6 CONNECT courses in addition to having all other SkyTrak software features.
The projector model included in the package may change based on current supply and other factors. However, it is guaranteed to be minimum HD quality with enough lumens for a bright experience.
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 a backswing to ensure you have enough clearance.
This simulator studio is well-made with great aesthetics, and the ST+ launch monitor offers fantastic value for the price. However, the original SkyTrak SIG10 package, which used to be featured here, is still very viable because it’s $1000 cheaper and still provides all the data parameters needed for a full simulator experience.
For more details about what comes with the package and the steps you need to take, visit this page.
2. FlightScope Mevo Plus SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
The Mevo Plus is an excellent alternative to the SkyTrak, packing the latest cutting-edge technologies and performance features.
At roughly the same price as the SkyTrak but more affordable than the SkyTrak+, it’s a very versatile device that many argue has an edge in outdoor performance.
The cool thing about this particular package is that it includes the optional choice of either an iPad Pro (running E6 CONNECT software) or a gaming laptop optimized for golf simulation. And it still manages to be under $10,000.
What Is Included
The Mevo Plus SwingBay Simulator Package consists of the Mevo+ 2023 Edition launch monitor, which delivers highly accurate measurements of 15 different ball and swing parameters.
This is paired with a high-quality SwingBay enclosure system (designed by Rain or Shine Golf) that is easy to assemble. Also included are:
- your choice of a SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x5′ or 4’x9′)
- a full HD short throw projector with high lumens
- ceiling mount or floor mount enclosure (your choice)
- landing pad turf (optional)
- side barrier netting
- an iPad Pro or gaming laptop optimized for golf simulation (optional)
Also included is the free FlightScope Mobile App which allows you to view real-time performance data during practice sessions, access skills challenges, record and overlay swing video, and more.
The included SwingTurf hitting mat offers an optimal balance between realistic fairway-like feel and forgiveness.
In addition to coming with a limited version of E6 CONNECT (iOS or PC) out-of-the-box, the Mevo+ is also compatible with The Golf Club 2019, Awesome Golf, Creative Golf 3D, and GSPro software.
As a radar-based launch monitor, you’ll need quite a lot of depth in your space to properly use the Mevo+. Recommended room dimensions are 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 20 ft deep.
For best results, the Mevo Plus should be placed 8 feet behind the ball on your target line. A minimum of 8 feet of ball flight is needed to accurately record data parameters.
Mevo Plus users love the value you get for the money: convenient, excellent accuracy, great software, and superb customer support. For more details about what comes with the package, available add-ons, and more, visit this page.
3. Carl’s Place EYE MINI 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 Carl’s Place, pairs the EYE MINI with Carl’s new C-Series 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 Place EYE MINI simulator package includes:
- a Uneekor EYE MINI launch monitor
- a Carl’s Place C-Series DIY Enclosure with impact screen (six size options)
- a Carl’s HotShot 4’x9′ hitting mat (double-sided)
- a BenQ TK700STi 4K short throw projector
- a projector ceiling mount
- a Carl’s Swing Camera set with optional accessories
The C-Series enclosure is unique compared to other enclosures because the impact screen sits flush with the floor, providing a seamless transition from turf to screen.
The 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 TK700STi projector can output at 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution, but because it’s non-laser, it’s relatively affordable.
The third-party softwares compatible with the EYE MINI are E6 CONNECT, TGC 2019, and GSPro.
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. TruGolf Vista 8 Golf Simulator
The Vista 8 from TruGolf tends to hover just below or above the $10,000 mark, but because of how good it is, it’s perfect to include in our list.
If you’re looking for a quality golf simulator studio with high-level functionality, the TruGolf Vista Series should be one of your top considerations. It’s the most compact and affordable simulator in the Vista line, making it a great option inside homes, garages, and more.
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.
The Vista 8 uses a unique tracking system built by TruGolf that runs under the floor. People are really impressed by the precision of the tracking.
For more details about what comes with the simulator, how exactly to install it, and more, visit this page.
5. Bushnell Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package
The Bushnell Launch Pro allows you to experience the power of the Foresight Sports GC3 at a heavily reduced cost, while only paying for the features you want.
With the initial purchase, you’ll be able to view carry distance, clubhead speed, spin and launch angle on the LCD display after each shot. You can sign up for subscription plans that unlock more data, enable you to play on simulation software, and more.
And with this package put together by reputable golf vendor PlayBetter, you get a full-size (but still compact) enclosure and hitting mat so you can use the Launch Pro as part of a complete simulator studio.
What we love about this package is that all the available SimStudio enclosure sizes cost the same, so you can go as big as your space will allow and still stay under that $10K mark.
What Is Included
The Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package comes with the Bushnell Launch Pro launch monitor and:
- a PlayBetter SimStudio full hitting bay
- an Optoma GT1080HDR short throw projector
- a projector ceiling mount
- a protective metal case for the Launch Pro (optional)
The SimStudio consists of a noise-dampening impact screen, full enclosure with blackout walls, 5’x5′ hitting mat, and landing pad turf that can double as a putting surface. We’re impressed with the quality of all of the components.
The Launch Pro comes with one free year of the Basic subscription (FSX Pro access) as well as a 30-day trial to the Gold subscription which unlocks full functionality. The launch monitor can be used with the FSX software suite consisting of FSX Pro, FSX 2020, and FSX Play.
The Optoma GT1080HDR is a value-packed projector with high lumens and 4K input, and in fact, it has ranked #1 in our guide for the best golf simulator projectors.
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.
The Launch Pro is widely considered by many in the golfing community to be one of the best bang-for-your-buck home launch monitors on the market. It’s similar in many ways to the EYE MINI above.
6. SkyTrak Plus Flex Space Golf Simulator Package
Here’s another excellent sim package that pairs the SkyTrak Plus 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 return a room (such as a basement or garage) back it to its original form as needed.
On top of this big convenience factor, the SkyTrak+ Flex Space Package comes with everything you need to improve your game and have a blast with friends and family, whatever the weather conditions are outside.
If you place a lot of importance on being able to repurpose your space, you should seriously consider this simulator package.
What Is Included
The SkyTrak Plus Flex Space Simulator Package comes with:
- SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor with protective case
- SkyTrak Play & Improve software (upgrade from base)
- HomeCourse ProScreen 180 with ceiling mount kit
- short throw golf simulator projector
- SIGPRO landing turf (6 ft x 10 ft)
- your choice of hitting mat (4’x7′, 4’x10′ or 5’x5′)
- projector floor mount enclosure
The SkyTrak+ launch monitor allows you to practice on a virtual driving range, hit at simulated targets, play minigames and challenges, and play world-class courses.
With the included Play & Improve software, you get access to 15 world-class WGT golf courses and 15 E6 CONNECT courses in addition to having all other SkyTrak software features. Various third party solutions can be integrated at extra cost.
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 can be used in many indoor spaces and tends to be popular in garages.
7. Garmin Approach R10 PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
On a tight budget but still seek a full-sized simulator studio? Then the R10 PerfectBay package will be ideal for you.
The Approach R10 was the first budget launch monitor to measure advanced club path parameters and offer golf simulation which you could previously only get in $1800+ units.
This simulator package was put together by Top Shelf Golf and is one of the most affordable 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 R10 PerfectBay Simulator includes 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:
- a PerfectBay Golf Simulator Enclosure
- The Net Return Pro Turf
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.
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.
You can also enjoy golf simulation with the R10 via Home Tee Hero, E6 CONNECT, The Golf Club 2019, and Awesome Golf, as well as use the PinSeeker app.
There are many optional upgrades available with this package:
- You can choose a PerfectBay WIDE or larger PerfectBay PLUS 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 choose an Optoma projector.
- You can add a projector floor mount enclosure or ceiling mount.
The R10 PerfectBay Package offers a lot of flexibility for golfers to find the setup that works best for them and that meets their budget.
Minimum space dimensions of 12 ft wide x 9 ft high x 16 ft deep are required. In this case, the R10 unit requires quite a lot of space in front and behind in order to produce the most accurate readings, so make sure your space has the depth.
Top Shelf Golf provides a ton of detail about every aspect of this simulator package here.
8. FlightScope Mevo Plus Practice Golf Simulator Package
Each of the simulators reviewed above use a screen and projector, which increases the cost significantly. If you’re content with viewing your simulation on a mobile device or PC and prefer just a net, have a look at this.
This portable simulator is designed for training & practice and is being offered by Rain or Shine Golf. It uses the Mevo+ Launch Monitor, which works nicely indoors but also performs very reliably outdoors — just move your net and mat outside and you’re set.
Even though no impact screen is included, you can still view the precise Mevo+ shot simulation and data on an iPad or gaming laptop which are offered with the package.
What Is Included
This package consists of the Mevo+ 2023 Edition Launch Monitor, a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT for iOS or PC that features practice ranges, a darts mini-game, and ten golf courses, and your choice of:
- 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 are:
- a carrying case for the launch monitor
- a 5’x5′ or 4’x9′ SwingTurf hitting mat (your choice, will affect cost)
- landing pad turf (optional)
- an iPad Pro or gaming laptop (tablet or PC simulation, your choice, optional)
We have found the GoSports ELITE net in particular to have outstanding performance and durability.
Note that you can supercharge the Mevo+ 2023 Edition with the Pro Package and Face Impact Location add-ons which give you more data parameters and insight into where you make contact on the clubface.
Minimum space dimensions of 9 ft wide x 9 ft high x 17 ft deep are required. 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.
Buying Guide
Investing in a golf simulator with a $10,000 budget is a big step. 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 a very important factor in golf simulators.
Many simulators under $10,000 come with a full screen enclosure, and this will require the most space. Others use just a net, which will require less space.
In any case, you need enough space for the simulator setup (including the mounting location of the projector) and to swing your longest club unimpeded.
You need to measure the width, length and height of your space and compare it to the minimum space requirements of every golf simulator you look at.
The average space requirements for full golf simulator setups tend to be roughly 9 feet high, 12 feet wide, and 15 feet deep. Whether you want to use your simulator outdoors or indoors, your space should be able to accommodate this.
2. Portability
Another thing to consider is ease of transport. Generally, the more the cost goes up, the less portable the simulator becomes, although there are exceptions.
With just a portable freestanding launch monitor like the SkyTrak+ or Bushnell Launch Pro, mobility is not an issue at all. Net setups are usually easy to set up, take down and transport. Screen and projector setups are usually less portable, but they can still be transported nonetheless.
The SkyTrak+ Flex Space Simulator, for example, comes with a screen that can be retracted at the press of a button and an enclosure that can be easily taken down.
Do you plan to have a dedicated place where your golf 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 the summer, when you can get out to the driving range or golf course.
If you plan to move your simulator around often, you may not want a full simulator setup with screen and projector unless it’s marketed as retractable. If you’re planning to invest in a net only, then make sure that transporting it is straightforward.
3. Net Vs. Screen
In general, there are three options with golf simulators:
- You can have no net or screen and hit foam balls, plastic balls, or no balls at all.
- You can hit into a net and view your shot data and see the ball flight on your connected computer or tablet.
- You can have a screen and a projector that will project your shots on a virtual driving range or golf course.
#1 is obviously the cheapest option, and in many cases, a setup of this nature will cost less than $1000. #2 will be more expensive.
#3 gives you the best experience, but it’s also the most expensive; it will typically bump up the cost of your golf simulator to at least $4500. Fully loaded simulators with an enclosure will cost even more.
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 on a PC or mobile device, then you should consider just a net.
If your goal is being able to work on and improve your game from the comfort of your own 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.
An interesting fact is that at least 50% of all golf simulator owners use a net instead of a screen.
4. Simulator 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 has software in three membership levels:
- Basic Plan: offers a practice driving range.
- Game-Improvement Plan: offers minigames, numeric display, and many other advanced features.
- Play & Improve Plan: offers all features of other plans plus full integration with WGT (World Golf Tour) and E6 CONNECT course play.
The Mevo+ can be connected with free mobile apps that display 3D shot trajectories and offer various data analysis features. Beyond this, the Mevo+ is compatible with The Golf Club 2019 and E6 CONNECT.
E6 CONNECT is a high-quality software option that is highly customizable. It offers various course simulations, minigames, training ads, tournaments, and more.
The Golf Club 2019 offers a typical practice range, numerous multiplayer modes, online tournaments and events, and the ability to design your own course. You can design your own courses on the GSPro software as well.
Other software possibilities include Creative Golf 3D, Awesome Golf and Fitness Golf.
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
You might not want to spend more than $10,000, and that’s totally understandable.
But would you be willing to spend 3 figures on what are considered “bottom-of-the-barrel” simulators? Would you spend $2000-$7000 on better setups? How close to $10,000 are you willing to go?
It’s important to realize that the less you spend, the less you’ll usually get, both in terms of equipment and software. You’ll also get farther away from a realistic golf simulator experience.
In this guide, we’ve tried to include golf simulators over a range of prices under the $10,000 mark. But the great thing is that, in many cases, 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 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, with more companies innovating and developing cutting-edge technologies. This means more golfers than ever before have been able to acquire their own personal setup.
A solid simulator setup that costs up to $10,000 can be a huge boon to your golfing 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, especially as you approach that budget threshold.
We strongly recommend reading user 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. Have you tried any of the simulators reviewed in this article? Let us know in the comments below.
