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While nearly every golfer would love to have their own personal golf simulator setup, many aren’t able to afford high or even mid-tier packages.
Many golfers want to be able to play and practice golf rain or shine, day or night, but aren’t willing to spend more than $5000 for it.
If this is you, then you’ve come to the right place. Fortunately, as golf simulator technology has advanced, many quality solutions have appeared in the market that can accommodate medium-low budgets.
In this article, we’ll review and compare our picks for the best golf simulators under $5000.
Before we go further, you should understand that with this budget, it’s difficult to achieve a full simulator setup that includes an enclosure, screen, projector, and high-quality launch monitor. It’s certainly possible, though, if you know where to look.
You can definitely get a good experience with these simulators and can get get the job done in terms of improving 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 $5000
Based on our own testing, research, and experience, here are our top selections:
- Bushnell Launch Pro Training Golf Simulator Package
- Garmin TeeTime+ Golf Simulator Package
- Rapsodo MLM2PRO PlayBetter SimStudio Package
- FlightScope Mevo Plus Training Golf Simulator Package
- SkyTrak Plus Home Golf Simulator Package
- Swing Caddie SC4 PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
- Garmin Approach R10 Retractable Golf Simulator Package
- Rapsodo MLM2PRO Practice Golf Simulator Package
1. Bushnell Launch Pro Training Golf Simulator Package
The Bushnell Launch Pro allows you to experience the power of Foresight Sports’ GC3 at a heavily reduced cost, while only paying for the features you want.
You’ll be able to view your data on the onboard LCD display after each shot. You can sign up for an optional Gold Subscription which unlocks more functionality and allows you to use simulation software with the Launch Pro.
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.
And as part of this entry-level package put together by The Indoor Golf Shop, the Launch Pro is paired with an affordable and portable SIGPRO hitting net.
What Is Included
The Launch Pro Training Package comes with the Ball Data Enabled Launch Pro. This only provides ball data, but it’s necessary to keep the cost under $5000; you could always add club data later at extra cost, although this isn’t necessary for golf simulation.
Also included are:
- a SIGPRO hitting net
- side barrier netting with sandbags
- your choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
- landing pad turf
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 Pro, FSX Play, Awesome Golf, third-party integrations, and more.
The SIGPRO hitting net catches golf balls quietly and softly, is easy to assemble, and has a collapsible design. It can safely handle ball speeds of up to 225 mph. In addition, The Indoor Golf Shop designed the SIGPRO net to easily integrate with their SIG Preferred Impact Screen which attaches to a top crossbar (purchased as a separate add-on).
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).
A space that is at least 8.5 ft high x 10 ft wide x 16 ft deep is recommended for this setup. You’ll need to be able to make a swing with your longest club unimpeded.
The Launch Pro is a fantastic device that provides professional-level accuracy, but setup can be a bit tricky and you might run into a couple hiccups along the way. For full details, check out this page.
2. Garmin TeeTime+ Golf Simulator Package
One of the best ways to get your hands on a full golf simulator studio with enclosure and projector for under $5000 is via the Garmin Approach R10.
The Approach R10 made big waves in the industry when it launched. Many people consider it to have revolutionized golf tech like the original SkyTrak did, as it was the first ultra-budget launch monitor to provide golf simulation.
This package by Carl’s Place combines the R10 with Carl’s unique C-Series DIY Enclosure available in a range of different sizes. 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 Garmin TeeTime+ simulator includes:
- a Garmin Approach R10 launch monitor with alignment stand
- a Carl’s C-Series DIY Enclosure with impact screen (six size options)
- a Carl’s HotShot hitting mat (three size options)
- a BenQ TH671ST 1080p short throw projector
- a projector ceiling mount
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, and the R10 also includes a trimmed iOS version of E6 CONNECT.
Home Tee Hero, E6 CONNECT, The Golf Club 2019, Awesome Golf, and Creative Golf can all be played on the R10 at extra cost. You can even use an app called PinSeeker with E6 CONNECT that allows you to win prizes competing in closest-to-the-pin tournaments.
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.
You’ll need enough space to fit whatever size of enclosure you choose. Carl’s Place recommends that the hitting zone be 10-12 feet from the screen, and the R10 needs to be 6-8 feet behind the tee location.
The R10 is a proven launch monitor in the budget space: great accuracy, a large number of data points including spin and shot shape, and a wide range of software options.
3. Rapsodo MLM2PRO PlayBetter SimStudio Package
The MLM2PRO by Rapsodo is a radar-based launch monitor that not only delivers very strong performance indoors and out, but is also extremely affordable.
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 budget launch monitor on the market right now.
This all-inclusive simulator package by reputable golf vendor PlayBetter manages to offer a blackout enclosure and screen, hitting mat, landing turf and projector for under $5000.
What Is Included
The MLM2PRO PlayBetter SimStudio Package includes:
- an MLM2PRO launch monitor
- a PlayBetter SimStudio full hitting bay (four size options)
- an HD short throw projector
- a projector ceiling mount
- a ball tray
The SimStudio consists of a noise-dampening impact screen, full enclosure with blackout walls, 5’x5′ hitting mat, side barrier netting, and landing pad turf that can double as a putting surface. The enclosure is available in four sizes, but even the largest size doesn’t exceed the $5K mark which is awesome.
The MLM2PRO combines Doppler radar with two high-speed cameras. The device measures 13 club and ball parameters and can even measure spin directly with the use of included 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.
You can expect the projector included with this package to be minimum HD quality and put out enough lumens for a bright experience. The current model at the time of writing is the 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. In addition, you’ll need at least 15-16 feet of depth to accommodate the radar-based MLM2PRO.
For full details about this simulator package, check out this page.
4. FlightScope Mevo Plus Training Golf Simulator Package
This package uses the Mevo Plus (Mevo+), a versatile and feature-packed radar-based launch monitor.
Put together by The Indoor Golf Shop, it pairs the Mevo+ with a quality SIGPRO hitting net. This very portable setup can be moved around the home (garage, out in the yard, etc.) as needed.
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 while viewing precise Mevo+ shot simulation and data on a mobile device or laptop.
What Is Included
This package takes the Mevo Plus 2023 Edition launch monitor (with charger and carrying pouch) and pairs it with a high-quality SIGPRO Golf Net. Also included are:
- SIGPRO Turf (6 ft x 10 ft)
- side barrier netting with sandbags
- your choice of hitting mat (5’x5′, 4’x7′ or 4’x10′)
The Mevo+ integrates with E6 CONNECT software, in addition to free FlightScope apps such as FS Golf and FS Skills. The simulator comes with a trimmed version of E6 for iOS or PC that includes ten courses and seventeen practice ranges.
Access to third-party solutions The Golf Club 2019, Creative Golf, Awesome Golf, and GSPro is available at extra cost.
A space that is at least 8.5 ft high x 10 ft wide x 16 ft deep is recommended for this setup. For best results, the Mevo Plus should be placed 8 feet behind the ball on your target line, and a minimum of 8 feet of ball flight is needed to accurately record data.
Mevo Plus users love the value you get for the money: excellent accuracy, great software, convenience, and great customer support.
5. SkyTrak Plus Home Golf Simulator Package
This simulator uses the next generation of the SkyTrak, the SkyTrak Plus (ST+) launch monitor.
The SkyTrak+ makes a number of improvements over the original SkyTrak including the addition of club data, a faster processor, greatly improved outdoor performance, no club or ball stickers needed for data, and additional courses in the software.
This affordable package pairs the ST+ with a high-quality The Net Return hitting net that can withstand ball speeds up to 200 mph. It’s very portable and can be moved around or taken outdoors as needed.
What Is Included
The SkyTrak+ Home Package comes with:
- the SkyTrak+ launch monitor
- The Net Return Home Series V2 net
- The Net Return Pro Turf hitting mat
The ST+ adds a new dual Doppler radar system which combines with an improved photometric camera system and machine-learning software to bring it to a new level of accuracy and comprehensive data measurement.
Included is the Basic Practice Plan for the ST+ which allows you to practice and analyze your data on a virtual 3D driving range. An upgrade to the Game Improvement Plan is available which unlocks a host of additional features and allows you to integrate various third-party simulator software.
The Pro Turf Mat is ten feet long and provides continuous ball return from the screen back to the hitting area. It doubles as a putting green and rolls up and stores like a carpet.
Various upgrades and add-ons are available for this package that can be added with one click.
Minimum space dimensions of 8’6″ high x 10′ wide x 12′ deep are required.
People really love the quality and leanness of this setup, as well as the fact that it’s less complex to work with than a projector setup. For more details about what comes with the package and the optional add-ons available to you, check out this page.
6. Swing Caddie SC4 PlayBetter SimStudio Package
The Swing Caddie SC4 is the latest and most powerful budget launch monitor by Voice Caddie.
While the SC4 supports golf simulation, it also has an onboard display that allows you to get your numbers without any software. This is a combination that you really only see in the expensive high-end units.
This package pairs the SC4 with PlayBetter’s SimStudio simulator, giving you a quality full-size enclosure, impact screen, projector and hitting mat at an affordable cost that stays under the $5000 mark.
What Is Included
The SC4 PlayBetter SimStudio Package includes:
- a Swing Caddie SC4 launch monitor
- a PlayBetter SimStudio full hitting bay
- an HD short throw projector
- a projector ceiling mount
- a ball tray
The Swing Caddie SC4 is a Doppler radar device that measures eight data parameters: carry/total distance, apex height, spin rate, clubhead speed, ball speed, launch angle, smash factor, and launch direction.
The SC4 offers many visualization features within its companion app, and it also integrates with E6 CONNECT and OptiShot Orion for your benefit. It includes voice output, a barometric pressure sensor, and a remote that enables you to operate the launch monitor from a distance.
Your space will need to fit whatever size enclosure you choose, and you’ll need to be able to make a swing with your longest club. In addition, you’ll need enough depth to accommodate the SC4, although the good news is that it requires less depth than most other radar-based devices.
For golfers that appreciate an onboard display but are still constrained by a tight budget, you can’t do much better than this package.
7. Garmin Approach R10 Retractable Golf Simulator Package
Here’s another package that can give you the full golf simulator experience (with impact screen and projector) for under $5000, as long as you forego the landing pad turf which can be replaced with a cheap hardware store alternative.
This setup from Rain or Shine Golf combines the R10 with a state-of-the-art HomeCourse screen that can be fully retracted at the click of a button, allowing you to quickly create space in a room (such as a basement or garage) or return a space to its original form.
What Is Included
The R10 Retractable Simulator Package comes with a Garmin Approach R10 launch monitor and:
- a HomeCourse ProScreen 180 with ceiling mount kit
- a full HD short throw projector with high lumens
- a SwingTurf Golf Mat
- landing pad turf (optional)
- a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT for iOS or PC
- a trial to the Garmin Golf Membership
- a projector floor mount enclosure or ceiling mount (your choice)
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. If your ceiling is higher than nine feet, we recommend wall mounting.
The included trial to the Garmin Golf Membership gives you access to video cloud storage, green contour data, and Home Tee Hero. The SwingTurf hitting mat offers an optimal balance between realistic fairway-like feel and forgiveness.
Minimum space requirements are 8.5 ft high x 11 ft wide x 17 ft deep.
Customers love the straightforward installation and how painless taking down the simulator is. It is commonly used in garages, but also in many other spaces. For a full picture of what’s included, go here.
8. Rapsodo MLM2PRO Practice Golf Simulator Package
This extremely affordable simulator package comes in at less than $2000!
Offered by Rain or Shine Golf, it pairs the Rapsodo MLM2PRO launch monitor, which was featured in another package above, with either the SwingNet Lite or SwingNet Pro hitting net.
Like what you see with the MLM2PRO but want to save money with a robust net setup? This is one of your best options.
What Is Included
The MLM2PRO Practice Package pairs the MLM2PRO launch monitor with one of either:
- SwingNet Pro Golf Net: 7 ft x 7 ft, powder-coated rust-resistant aluminum frame, push-button assembly, 10ply 1″ heavy-duty polyester netting
- SwingNet Lite Golf Net: 7 ft x 9 ft, easy assembly, more affordable, hanging hitting target included
The package also includes your choice of SwingTurf hitting mat (5’x5′ or 4’x9′ sizes) and optional landing pad turf.
The MLM2PRO’s features must be accessed through the companion MLM2PRO app available on iOS or Android. This well-made app provides powerful analysis features including Rapsodo Combines and Session Insights.
From dispersion circles to performance tests to club gapping details and shot shape trends, the MLM2PRO app will help you understand your game on a much deeper level.
Plus, you can access Rapsodo Range, Rapsodo Courses, E6 CONNECT, and Awesome Golf for practice and course play. If you’re looking for the most realistic software experience, go for E6 CONNECT.
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.
Buying Guide
Investing in a golf simulator that will serve you for the long term is a big step, even if you have a low-mid budget. 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 clearly a very important factor in golf simulators.
With many simulators under $5000, you’ll only have a net setup. Others will come with a screen and projector but will likely be limited in size or lacking various bells and whistles. Beyond this, all you’ll need is enough space to swing your longest club unimpeded.
In any case, 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 around 12 feet wide, 9 feet high and 15 feet deep. Whether you want to use your simulator outdoors or indoors, your space should be able to accommodate this. Truth be told, ceiling height tends to be an issue for many people.
2. Portability
Another thing to consider is ease of transport.
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 moved nonetheless.
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 your local golf club.
If you plan to move your simulator around often, you probably won’t want a full enclosure/projector setup because it will become a hassle. If you’re planning to invest in a net only, then make sure that transporting it is straightforward.
Fortunately, golf simulators under $5000 tend to be inherently more portable because they’re smaller, have less components, and consist of portable launch monitors like the Mevo+ and Approach R10.
3. Net Vs. Screen Vs. No Net
In general, there are three options with golf simulators:
- You can have a screen, enclosure and projector that will project your shots on a virtual driving range or golf course.
- You can hit into a net, but still be able to view your shot data and see the ball flight on your connected computer or tablet.
- You can have no netting or screen and hit foam balls, plastic balls, or no balls at all.
#3 is obviously the cheapest option, and in many cases, a setup of this nature will cost less than $1000. #2 will be more expensive.
#1 is the best and most immersive option, but it’s also the most expensive; it will typically bump up the cost of your golf simulator to $4500 at a bare minimum.
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 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 more than 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: contains a practice driving range.
- Game-Improvement Plan: contains minigames, numeric display, and many other advanced features.
- Play & Improve Plan: contains all features of other plans plus full integration with WGT (World Golf Tour) and 15 E6 CONNECT courses.
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.
Other software possibilities include FSX, ProTee Golf 2.0, 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? Do you want a more serious experience, or a fun, entertaining, kid-friendly experience?
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 $5000, and that’s perfectly fine.
But would you be willing to spend 3 figures on what are considered “bottom-of-the-barrel” simulators? Would you spend $1000-$4000 on better setups? How close to $5000 are you willing to go?
Another thing to consider is whether the cost of a simulator is slightly above $5000. In many cases, it’s worth it to go a couple hundred bucks over your budget if it means getting a really nice sim.
Generally speaking, the less you spend, the less you’ll usually get, both in terms of equipment and software. You’ll 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 $5000 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 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, with more companies developing and manufacturing cutting-edge simulation technologies. This means more golfers than ever before have been able to acquire their own personal setup.
A budget simulator that costs $5000 or less can still 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. If you want an even better experience, consider increasing your budget to $10,000.
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. Have you tried any of the simulators reviewed in this article? Let us know in the comments below.
Awesome articel dude, thanks a bunch!!
I’m stuck in Alaska for another 1.5 years and we only get about 5 real months of golf. Seriously considering buying an optishot now.
Thanks for reading. I would recommend a full simulator package instead of just the standalone unit. Let me know if you have any questions.
helpful guide, thanks. I’m looking for a golf simulator in this price range. the only thing I’m a little confused about is the SkyTrak: is it a launch monitor or a simulator?
The SkyTrak is technically a launch monitor, but it’s also a simulator because it includes software that simulates your shots on a virtual course. The difference with the standalone unit is that you’ll have to set up your own hitting area — this can be a net or a screen, but keep in mind that a screen & projector will be quite a bit more expensive. I touch on this in the buying guide. The concept is the same with other launch monitors like the Mevo Plus.
If you can, I honestly recommend going straight for a SkyTrak package, because once you set it up, you can start smashing balls without worrying about using foam balls (not ideal) or your ball containment system being good enough. Thanks for the comment!