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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.
We have tested all of these simulator setups. Some offer less features than others, but they all give an exceptional golf simulator experience for the cost.
Our Top Picks For Golf Simulators Under $10,000
Based on our own testing, research, and experience, here are our top selections:
- SkyTrak SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope Mevo Plus SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
- TruGolf Vista 8 Golf Simulator
- Bushnell Launch Pro SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
- SkyTrak Flex Space Golf Simulator Package
- SkyTrak PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
- FlightScope Mevo Plus Practice Golf Simulator Package
1. SkyTrak 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, which is arguably the most successful affordable launch monitor on the market.
The SIG10 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.
At the time of writing, it even comes with a free bonus 12-month subscription to Golf Magazine.
With this beastly simulator setup, you can count on being able to dial in your swing and take your game to the next level.
What Is Included
The SIG10 package consists of the SkyTrak Launch Monitor and a premium SIG10 simulator screen and enclosure (designed by The Indoor Golf Shop) that is handcrafted in the USA.
Also included are:
- your choice of a hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
- a 1080p golf simulator projector (model may vary)
- a ceiling projector mount
- landing pad turf
- side barrier netting
You also get a subscription to the SkyTrak Play & Improve Plan. This is the highest level plan offered, and it allows you to play 12 world-class WGT (World Golf Tour) golf courses in addition to having all other SkyTrak software features.
The choices for hitting mat are the Fairway Series 5’x5′ (provides realistic feel), SIGPRO 4’x7′ (easy on the joints, allows level unit placement), and SIGPRO 4’x10′ (center hitting strip ideal for left/right hand switching).
You can also install SIG10 Simulator Flooring: a full flooring option that consists of a hitting strip surrounded by a putting green. This is an awesome addition but is quite expensive.
Room dimensions of 9 ft high x 11 ft wide x 18 ft deep are recommended. Get your longest club out (usually driver) and make a backswing to ensure you have enough clearance.
This simulator has a very high 4.7/5 average rating with over 73 reviews; customers just love it. For more details about what comes with the package and more, visit this page.
2. FlightScope Mevo Plus SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
Maybe you don’t want or can’t use the SkyTrak for whatever reason. That’s fine — the SkyTrak isn’t the be-all and end-all.
In that case, you should look at this FlightScope Mevo Plus SwingBay simulator package.
The Mevo Plus (or Mevo+) launch monitor packs the latest cutting-edge technologies and performance features. At roughly the same price as the SkyTrak, many argue that it’s better than the SkyTrak in certain respects, and people find that it performs better than the SkyTrak outdoors.
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+ 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′)
- an Optoma 1080p short throw projector
- 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)
- BirTees and a ball tray
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 out-of-the-box, the Mevo+ is also compatible with The Golf Club 2019, Awesome Golf, Creative Golf 3D, and GSPro software.
Compared to the SkyTrak, you’ll need more depth 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. 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 setup with top functionality, the TruGolf Vista Series is what you want to look at. 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.
Unlike many of the other simulators on this page, the Vista 8 doesn’t use the SkyTrak Launch Monitor; it’s a completely different system built by TruGolf. 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.
4. Bushnell Launch Pro SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
What’s really remarkable about this simulator package is that it allows you to benefit from the power of the Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, which normally would cost well over $10,000 in a golf simulator.
This is made possible with the Bushnell Launch Pro, which is offered at a steeply discounted price and enables you to pay for certain features on a subscription basis.
With this package offered by The Indoor Golf Shop, you can enjoy the Silver Subscription, which provides the FSX 2020 software and a nice amount of data parameters without surpassing the $10,000 mark. You won’t find a better deal anywhere else.
What Is Included
The Bushnell Launch Pro SIG10 Simulator features the portable Bushnell Launch Pro launch monitor, which is essentially a reskin of the GC3. With the initial purchase, you’ll be able to access a reduced set of club and ball parameters and only be able to read them on the LCD display after each shot.
Also included are:
- a SIG10 simulator screen and enclosure
- a Panasonic PT-VZ580U WUXGA projector
- ceiling projector mount
- landing turf & side barrier netting
- a choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′, 4’x10′, or full flooring)
- one free year of the Basic Subscription
- a 30-day free trial to the Gold Subscription
The SIG10 screen measures 10’1″ wide x 7’7″ high. This premium impact screen is designed to withstand ball speeds of up to 250 mph.
With a Basic Subscription to the Launch Pro, you get access to FSX Pro software which includes a 2D ball flight. You can also save sessions for different clubs in the bag. A Silver Subscription adds access to FSX 2020 and FSX Play software with five courses, 3D ball flights, online play, a practice range, four more data parameters, and more.
Room dimensions of 9 ft high x 12 ft wide x 18 ft deep are recommended.
There are other subscription plans available for the Launch Pro; for more details, check out this page.
5. SkyTrak Flex Space Golf Simulator Package
Here’s another excellent sim package that pairs the 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 return a room (such as a basement or garage) back it to its original form as needed.
On top of this big convenience benefit, 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. Like other simulator packages from The Indoor Golf Shop, it also includes a free 12-month subscription to Golf Magazine.
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
- 1080p Short Throw Projector
- SIGPRO Turf Mat (6 ft x 10 ft)
- 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.
6. SkyTrak PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
Maybe you’re interested in the SkyTrak, but none of the setups featured thus far are really doing it for you.
This simulator package was put together by Top Shelf Golf, a reputable online vendor for golf equipment. It pairs the SkyTrak with the triple-layer PerfectBay enclosure, which is made in the USA.
This is 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 larger PerfectBay PLUS or wider 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.
7. 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, this should be one of your top considerations.
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 included with the package.
What Is Included
This package consists of the Mevo+ Launch Monitor, a trimmed iOS version of E6 CONNECT that features practice ranges, a darts mini-game, and five golf courses, and your choice of:
- GoSports Net: 7.5 ft x 7.5 ft, durable steel frame, automatic ball return, can handle shots up to 225 mph
- Rukket Sports Premium 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)
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 huge 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 and to swing your longest club (driver) 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 easily 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 (and Golf-In-A-Box Pro that is not featured here), 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 phone or tablet, 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).
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 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 developing cutting-edge simulation technologies. This means more golfers than ever before have been able to acquire their own personal setup.
A serious 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.
