8 Best Golf Simulators Under $10,000 – 2024 Reviews & Buying Guide

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Many people dream of having a full golf simulator setup, so they can play their favourite golf courses or practice 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:

  1. SkyTrak Plus SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
  2. FlightScope Mevo Plus TeeParty Golf Simulator
  3. Uneekor EYE MINI SIG10 Golf Simulator Package
  4. TruGolf Vista 8 Golf Simulator
  5. Bushnell Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package
  6. Carl’s NVISAGE N1 Golf Simulator Package
  7. Garmin Approach R10 PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
  8. Uneekor EYE MINI Lite SwingBay Golf Simulator Package

1. SkyTrak Plus SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

SkyTrak Plus (ST+) 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

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 TeeParty Golf Simulator

FlightScope Mevo Plus TeeParty Golf Simulator

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.

One of the best simulator studio packages to pair with the Mevo+ is undoubtedly the TeeParty Package by Carl’s Place, created for both fun and game improvement and coming in at under $10,000. 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.

What Is Included

The Mevo+ TeeParty simulator package includes:

  • a FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 Edition launch monitor
  • a Carl’s Place C-Series DIY Enclosure with impact screen (six size options)
  • a Country Club Elite 5’x8′ hitting mat
  • a BenQ LU710 1080p projector
  • Creative Golf software
  • a projector ceiling mount
  • wall-to-wall turf

A nice perk of the Mevo+ is that it comes bundled with E6 CONNECT software for iOS or PC, in addition to a free FlightScope app. But this package also throws in Creative Golf which offers course play, a variety of practice modes, and entertaining, quirky mini-games that are family and kid-friendly.

The included Country Club Elite Mat is designed to closely mimic the feel of hitting a shot from the fairway and taking a real divot. It can take a real wooden tee.

The BenQ LU710 is a laser projector that can output 1080p (1920×1080) resolution at a bright 4000 lumens, making it one of the top options for a golf simulator.

In addition to the software already mentioned, the Mevo+ can also integrate with The Golf Club 2019, GSPro, and Awesome Golf, although this may create ongoing costs over time depending on whether you choose a subscription or one-time purchase.

Carl’s Place recommends that you have at least 19 feet of depth for this setup. The Mevo+ 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+ is robust and affordable and Carl’s Place is there to help you every step of the way. For full details on what’s included, go here.


3. Uneekor EYE MINI SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

Uneekor EYE MINI SIG10 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 The Indoor Golf Shop, pairs the EYE MINI with their popular, high-quality SIG10 enclosure.

At times, and depending on the components you select, this package may run slightly above $10K, but it’s currently not difficult to keep the expenditure below that mark.

What Is Included

The Uneekor EYE MINI SIG10 Simulator includes the EYE MINI system along with:

  • a SIG10 simulator screen & enclosure
  • a WUXGA (1920×1200) 5000-lumens projector
  • a ceiling projector mount
  • landing pad turf
  • a choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)

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 projector can output at 5000 lumens which will ensure a bright, vibrant image even with considerable ambient lighting in the room.

In conjunction with the Uneekor View software, you can use optional swing cameras (additional purchase) to analyze your swing from a multitude of different angles. 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 a wide range of data points, reliability, accuracy, and plenty of features for game improvement and entertainment. The portable nature of the EYE MINI means you can use it in other locations (outdoors, etc.) as well.


4. TruGolf Vista 8 Golf Simulator

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

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 ball and club data parameters on the LCD display after each shot, depending on whether you get the Ball Data Enabled Unit or the pricier Ball & Club Data Enabled Unit. An optional Gold Subscription unlocks more functionality and allows you to use simulation software with the Launch Pro.

And with this package put together by reputable golf vendor PlayBetter, you get a full-size enclosure and hitting mat so you can use the Launch Pro as part of a complete simulator studio.

This is an especially popular simulator package that enjoys a high average rating of 4.4/5.

What Is Included

The Launch Pro PlayBetter SimStudio Package comes with your choice of the Ball Data Only or Ball & Club Data Bushnell Launch Pro launch monitor, along with:

  • a PlayBetter SimStudio full hitting bay
  • an HD golf simulator projector (model may change)
  • a projector ceiling mount
  • a protective metal case for the Launch Pro (optional)
  • a ball tray

The SimStudio consists of a noise-dampening impact screen, full enclosure with blackout walls, 5’x5′ hitting mat, side netting, 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 a 14-day free trial to club data (Ball Unit only) and a 14-day trial to the Gold Subscription. A Gold Subscription, which costs $499/yr, unlocks access to 25 courses, sessions, clubs, FSX ProFSX PlayAwesome Golf, third-party integrations, and more.

You can expect the projector included with this package to be minimum HD quality and put out enough lumens for a bright experience. Models bundled in the past include the Optoma GT1080HDR and Optoma GT2000HDR.

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. Carl’s NVISAGE N1 Golf Simulator Package

Carl's NVISAGE N1 Golf Simulator Package

The NVISAGE N1 is a house-brand launch monitor from Carl’s Place. It’s designed to be more affordable than other ceiling-mounted systems while still providing the data and software that golfers are hungry for.

The system consists of two high-speed cameras and a PhysX 6D Physics Engine for highly accurate readings of various ball and club data parameters. Users benefit from third-party software compatibility, easy mounting, real-time feedback, and a substantial hitting zone.

This simulator package pairs the NVISAGE N1 with Carl’s unique C-Series DIY Enclosure available in a range of different sizes. You’d be hard-pressed to find any other ceiling-mounted setup like this for under $10K.

What Is Included

The Carl’s Carl’s NVISAGE N1 Simulator Package most notably includes:

  • an NVISAGE N1 launch monitor
  • a Carl’s Place C-Series DIY Enclosure with impact screen (two size options)
  • a Carl’s HotShot 4’x9′ hitting mat (double-sided)
  • a BenQ TH671ST or LG ProBeam BU53RG projector (your choice)
  • a projector ceiling mount
  • a subscription to the GSPro software

The NVISAGE N1‘s high-speed (2000 fps) camera system provides clubhead speed, ball speed, launch angle, and spin readings. Specially marked balls must be used but they are included with the purchase.

This launch monitor does not come with companion software or apps, but it can be used with either GSPro or E6 CONNECT.

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 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.

The BenQ TH671ST projector outputs at 3000 lumens in 1080p with a 10,000:1 contrast ratio, which is not too shabby at all. The optional LG ProBeam BU53RG is a 4K laser projector but would bump the cost well over $10K, so we wouldn’t recommend it in this case.

The NVISAGE N1 should be mounted 9-10 feet above the ground and two feet in front of the hitting area. You’ll also need enough space to fit the enclosure size you choose, mount the projector, and swing your longest club unimpeded.

Based on direct testing, the accuracy and performance of this launch monitor is impressively close to high-end systems like the EYE XO, so you’re really getting exceptional value here.


7. Garmin Approach R10 PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package

Garmin Approach R10 PerfectBay Golf Simulator

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, Awesome Golf, and Creative Golf, as well as use the PinSeeker app.

There are many optional upgrades available with this package:

  1. You can choose a PerfectBay WIDE or larger PerfectBay PLUS enclosure.
  2. You can replace the Pro Turf mat with a Fiberbuilt hitting mat.
  3. You can choose an Optoma projector.
  4. 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. Uneekor EYE MINI Lite SwingBay Golf Simulator Package

Uneekor EYE MINI Lite SwingBay Golf Simulator Package

The EYE MINI Lite uses the same fundamental tracking technology of its bigger brother, the EYE MINI.

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 turnkey package by Rain or Shine Golf sits safely under $10,000 and pairs the EYE MINI Lite with their popular SwingBay studio. We think it’s one of the best EYE MINI Lite sim packages on the market today.

What Is Included

The EYE MINI Lite SwingBay Simulator includes the EYE MINI Lite system along with:

  • a SwingBay enclosure system
  • a full HD (1080p) short throw projector with high lumens
  • a projector ceiling mount or floor mount enclosure (your choice)
  • a SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x5′ or 9’x4′)
  • landing pad turf (optional)
  • side barrier netting
  • a gaming laptop optimized for golf simulation (optional)

Like the EYE MINI, the EYE MINI Lite boasts dual high-speed infrared cameras, Club Optix, and all the other benefits that can be accessed via the Uneekor View software. It delivers the same power, accuracy, and data points of the EYE MINI at just 60% of the cost.

The system is compatible with E6 CONNECT, TGC 2019, and GSPro, but you’ll need Uneekor’s Pro or Champion package to unlock third-party connectivity. These packages also unlock more profiles and sessions and give you access to Uneekor’s Refine+ software.

The SwingBay enclosure is designed for 4:3 projection and is built to withstand ball speeds up to 250 mph. It consists of a tightly-woven premium impact screen, commercial-grade blackout walls, and a bungee fastening system.

The included SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x4′) was designed by Rain or Shine Golf to provide an optimal balance between realistic fairway feel and forgiveness. An upgrade to a larger 9’x4′ SwingTurf mat is available.

Minimum space requirements for this setup are 8.5 ft high x 11 ft wide x 16 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 running smoothly.


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

White Measuring Tape

Size is crucial when setting up a golf simulator.

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 entire 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.

You can also pair launch monitors with enclosure systems like the HomeCourse ProScreen 180 which can be retracted with the press of a handset button.

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 framed enclosure 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

Netting Closeup

In general, there are three options with golf simulators:

  1. You can have no net or screen and hit foam balls, plastic balls, or no balls at all.
  2. You can hit into a net and view your shot data and see the ball flight on your connected computer or tablet that is running software.
  3. You can have an impact 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

The Golf Club Simulator Logo

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.

Some of the best third-party simulator software solutions out there include:

  • GSPro: boasts ultra-realistic physics and graphics and offers practice, full course play, virtual online tours, and the ability to design your own course and make it available to the community as a free download.
  • The Golf Club 2019: has 4K resolution support and offers a ton of golf courses, live tours and tournaments, as well as a tool that allows you to build your own golf courses.
  • E6 CONNECT: highly customizable software that offers various course simulations, minigames, training aids, tournaments, and more.
  • Ignite/View, Refine and Refine+ (formerly Succeed): Uneekor’s in-house software that provides a 3D driving range, various practice modes, course modes, game modes, and more.

In addition, launch monitors like the Mevo+ can be paired with free mobile apps that display 3D shot trajectories and offer various data analysis features.

Other software possibilities include Creative Golf, Awesome Golf, and OptiShot Orion.

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 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.

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