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If you’re even a little bit serious about your golf game, a launch monitor is one of the most valuable assets you can have at your disposal. It allows you to measure ball flight data and track your shots so that you can understand the state of your game on a much deeper level.
Many people want to be able to use a launch monitor outdoors, whether it’s at the range, in the yard hitting into a net, or at a golf event. Being able to view your shot data on an onboard display, without needing separate devices or apps, is an added bonus.
Whatever the reason is you’re looking for an outdoor launch monitor, you’ve come to the right place. While most launch monitors work well both indoors and outdoors, certain models tend to be built with outdoor use in mind.
In this article, we’ll review and compare our picks for the best outdoor golf launch monitors across a range of different budgets.
Note: Golfstead has tested and/or conducted in-depth research into all of the products featured in this guide. Our editorial process for these rankings takes into account a mix of many factors which may include performance, reliability, usability, value for money, cost, and the general consensus from other users of the product. The list that follows may be reassessed or updated over time.
Our Top Picks For Outdoor Launch Monitors
Based on our own testing, research, and experience, here are our top selections:
- FlightScope Mevo Gen2 Launch Monitor
- Garmin Approach R50 Launch Monitor
- Uneekor EYE MINI Launch Monitor
- FlightScope X3C Launch Monitor
- Full Swing KIT Launch Monitor
- Foresight Sports GCQuad Launch Monitor
- Rapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor
- Garmin Approach G80 GPS & Launch Monitor
Note: Prices for the items listed on this page are subject to change. To see the current price, please click on the relevant links below.
1. FlightScope Mevo Gen2 Launch Monitor
The Mevo Gen2 is an absolute champ. Given the unbelievable amount of technology and features packed into the device and its affordable price point, giving it the #1 spot on our list was a no-brainer.
This launch monitor can be considered the next generation of the Mevo Plus (Mevo+), with upgraded hardware, enhanced accuracy, a new vertical-style form factor, and a longer battery life. It performs beautifully outdoors thanks to its Doppler radar design. If possible, we recommend using it on the range, but it can also be used in the yard with a net.
The system comes with apps and software out of the box, and it’s compatible with a slew of great simulator software providers.
Features
Lightweight and portable, the Mevo Gen2 is powered by FlightScope’s Fusion Tracking technology which combines 3D Doppler Radar with synchronized image processing to deliver high accuracy and reliability.
18 data parameters are provided, and with the Pro Package add-on, you unlock 11 additional parameters powered by Fusion Tracking. The optional Face Impact Location add-on for the Pro Package allows you to view the precise impact location on the clubface with heatmaps.
The purchase of a Mevo Gen2 Edition launch monitor comes with a trimmed version of E6 CONNECT software for iOS and PC. This software package consists of eight famous golf courses including Torrey Pines and The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island.
You can also get a great driving range practice experience with 3D trajectory views, video recording and more through the FS Golf app for Android and iOS. Other FlightScope apps and the FS Golf PC software can be paired with the Mevo Gen2.
The launch monitor is officially compatible with E6 CONNECT, E6 APEX, GSPro, Creative Golf, and Awesome Golf.
The release price of the Mevo Gen2 is $1000 less than what the Mevo+ was priced at when it launched.
Additional Notes
The Mevo Gen2 should be placed 8 feet behind the ball on your target line for best results. A minimum of 8 feet of ball flight is needed to accurately record data parameters.
It’s safe to say that the Mevo Gen2 matches or outclasses the Mevo+ in pretty much every way. It allows golfers to get similar accuracy and reliability to professional systems for less than $1500. For more information on device compatibility, available add-ons, and software options, visit this page.
2. Garmin Approach R50 Launch Monitor
Developed by sports technology company Garmin, the Approach R50 is a high-end portable launch monitor and Garmin’s most powerful launch monitor offering yet.
The R50 boasts innovations that can’t be found in any other launch monitor that came before it. It does everything you would expect a high-end launch monitor to do, but it also contains a built-in computer that runs simulation software and analytics within the unit itself.
This means that when you take the R50 to the range or anywhere outdoors, you can not only see your shot data on the on-unit display, but you can also enjoy golf simulation without needing to run software on a phone, iPad or tablet. The R50 is all you need to take with you.
Notwithstanding that, it’s a very high-quality system (albeit rather heavy and large) that’s fast, easy to use, highly accurate, and compatible with the best third-party software.
Features
The Approach R50 consists of three high-speed cameras, similar to the triscopic Foresight Sports GC3, which capture high-speed impact videos and measure at least 15 different ball and club data points. Club stickers are required to get club data.
Arguably the standout feature of the R50 is its 10-inch colour touchscreen display, which we consider to be the best on-unit display we’ve ever seen. This screen, which is clear, crisp, and easy to read even in direct sunlight, displays your data after every shot and can display Garmin’s simulation and analytics software.
Plus, a unique feature allows you to output different views to the launch monitor display and an external display at the same time.
Within Garmin’s integrated software, you can practice on a virtual range, analyze your data, play your choice of over 43,000 courses in an enhanced version of Home Tee Hero, or connect third-party software that includes E6 APEX, E6 CONNECT, GSPro, and Awesome Golf. A separate device is needed to run third-party solutions.
While a Garmin Golf membership is required to access Home Tee Hero, you don’t need to purchase a third-party connector to hook up third-party software, which is great.
3. Uneekor EYE MINI Launch Monitor
The EYE MINI is designed to pack Uneekor’s proven and successful EYE XO engine into a sleek and portable design that can be used anywhere.
This fantastic launch monitor can be used equally well indoors and outdoors, but what makes it great for outdoor use is its onboard E Ink backlit display which is readable in sunlight.
We are extremely impressed with the EYE MINI, and here are some more reasons why:
- it measures plenty of ball and club parameters
- it provides a unique slow-motion view of the club impacting the ball
- it’s compatible with plenty of simulation software titles
- it’s virtually just as accurate as the EYE XO
- it’s more affordable than other units with similar features and accuracy
On top of that, the software that comes with the unit has an iOS version, so using it on the range or anywhere else outdoors is even more convenient.
Features
The Uneekor EYE MINI is a camera-based launch monitor consisting of two high-speed infrared cameras. Its onboard display shows six ball parameters and four club parameters after every shot with no separate software required.
The EYE MINI sits in front of the golfer and measures 11 total data parameters including seven ball parameters and four club parameters. Five additional parameters are calculated within the software. Club stickers (included) are required to measure club data.
The EYE MINI comes bundled with the Uneekor View software, available for PC or iOS. In it, you can view a simulated 3D ball flight with your data after every shot.
What we like the most about View is the Club Optix slow-motion view of the club impacting the ball. The QED and EYE XO offer this from a top-down perspective; the EYE MINI’s side view gives you a whole new insight into how your ball impacts the clubface.
Currently, the EYE MINI is compatible with GSPro, TGC 2019, and E6 CONNECT, but a software package is needed to unlock third-party capability. Other packages for the EYE MINI unlock additional profiles, sessions, and the Refine+ software.
Given the quality of the EYE MINI, the quality app, the Optix slow-motion view, and the excellent third-party compatibility, it’s pretty difficult to pass up if you have the budget for it.
4. FlightScope X3C Launch Monitor
Looking for the best of the best? Want the most power, accuracy and reliability for outdoor use on the market? Your answer is the FlightScope X3C.
The X3C launch monitor is an updated version of the original X3, which has been used by pro golfers such as Bryson DeChambeau. The updates are mostly aesthetic—it features a new carbon fiber shell that is built with aerospace materials and according to aerospace industry standards. Each X3C sports a handmade shell that is unique from unit to unit.
This launch monitor is like the Mevo+ on steroids, able to handle the most intense and demanding applications including practice sessions, golf lessons, and club fitting. Quick setup is enabled by self-leveling feet and a new flip kickstand.
The X3C is well-suited for outdoor use thanks to its 3D Doppler tracking. It has full golf simulation capability, and it also has some of the best chipping and putting tracking on the market.
Data Parameters
The X3C is capable of measuring 50 full-swing, chipping and putting data parameters.
We won’t even bother listing them here, but you get a list of them on [[this page | link]]. Let’s put it this way: if you want to quantify every meaningful aspect of your swing, you won’t be left disappointed.
To measure this data, the X3C uses patented Fusion Tracking technology, which combines 3D radar and image processing for extremely high accuracy.
Features
Most of the features of the X3C are accessed through the FS Golf app, which you can download for free on iOS and Android devices. Some FlightScope apps that are compatible with the X3 are also usable on PC.
With the X3C, you can set up multiple camera feeds and then sync the multi-angle video with radar data on every shot.
The X3C has a powerful feature called the Environmental Optimizer, which allows you to modify factors like altitude, wind speed, humidity, and air temperature. This helps you understand how weather and climate variables affect your shots.
The X3C also provides wedge D-Plane data, which includes angle of attack, face angle, club path, and dynamic loft. This enables you to get valuable insights into your wedge play and improve weaknesses in your wedge game.
Other features of the X3C with the companion apps include (but are not limited to):
- data margins (min and max values for smarter practice)
- customizable interfaces
- club & ball tracing
- lesson recordings
- putter face & path tracking
- customized challenges
Additional Info
Purchases of a FlightScope X3C launch monitor include an E6 CONNECT software bundle. E6 CONNECT is one of the best golf simulation software titles on the market, with 4K graphics, practice ranges, full course play, and various online games.
The X3C is also compatible with other third-party providers which include TGC 2019, Creative Golf, Awesome Golf, and GSPro.
16 feet of space (eight feet of ball flight and eight feet behind you) is required to properly use the X3C. Additionally, if you’re hitting into a net rather than at the driving range, metallic stickers are needed in order to accurately measure spin.
The X3C is a dream if you can handle the cost, and it’s worth noting that its performance is essentially the same as the TrackMan 4 while being significantly less expensive.
5. Full Swing KIT Launch Monitor
Have you ever wanted to know which launch monitor Tiger Woods uses? That would be the Full Swing KIT, an advanced radar-based launch monitor built at Woods’ request and according to his standards.
Full Swing developed the KIT over the course of many years in collaboration with Woods, who sought a launch monitor that he could take to the range and that he could count on as much as his indoor Full Swing Pro Series simulator. The launch monitor is also used by top players like Jon Rahm and world-class instructors.
The KIT is a radar-based launch monitor that provides an array of club and ball parameters, with no stickers or alignment aids required. Its accuracy is comparable to higher-end launch monitors while being thousands of dollars less expensive.
Features
The Full Swing KIT uses machine-learned Doppler radar and dedicated processors to measure sixteen data parameters. These include ball speed, distance, club head speed, smash factor, spin axis, face to path, launch angle, apex height and club path.
Its portable, compact design has direct-to-screen output, and it’s the only launch monitor with a customizable OLED full-colour screen.
Other features of the KIT are:
- separate processors for radar and media
- an onboard 4K camera with 1080p output for swing capture and analysis
- data customization and viewing on multiple devices including iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch
- ability for data measurements to be spoken to you through headphones
- ability to view normalized data in the absence of environmental factors
- five hours of battery life
A dedicated companion app (iOS only) is available for the KIT which allows you to view your historical shot data, store video, track trends, manage your clubs and bag, and utilize an AI shot evaluation technology called FS Combine powered by Clippd. In addition, the KIT is usable for indoor golf, integrating with GSPro and the iOS version of E6 CONNECT.
The app and third-party software are not required to use the KIT; you can customize the data view format using buttons on the right side of the unit and view data on the KIT display after each shot.
What we love about the KIT is its easy setup, ease of use, intuitive app, and large amount of data parameters. And if it’s endorsed by arguably the best golfer to play the game (as well as top pros like Jon Rahm), you know it’s the real deal.
6. Foresight Sports GCQuad Launch Monitor
The GCQuad Launch Monitor is a three-time Golf Digest Editors’ Choice Award Winner and one of Foresight Sports’ most advanced and powerful launch monitor offerings. It has been used by top coaches and pro golfers like Phil Mickelson and Rory McIlroy.
In terms of price, it’s in the ballpark of the X3C and TrackMan, depending on which add-ons you get with it. We’d argue that at the moment, it provides the most accurate and reliable performance on the market along with the QuadMAX.
The GCQuad builds on the old discontinued GC2 and outclasses the GC3 to deliver unique quadrascopic imaging, direct measurements of club head data, and an extremely fast processor.
With a compact, ergonomic design at 7 x 12.5 x 4 inches, weight of 7.5 lbs, and 6-8 hour battery life, this launch monitor works equally well outdoors and indoors.
Features
The GCQuad uses a quadrascopic high-speed camera system which is a step up from the triscopic system of the GC3. It gets a clear, direct view of impact and takes exact photometric measurements.
A combination of high-resolution, high-speed camera-based technology and infrared object tracking build a virtual 3D model of your swing and precisely measure club head and ball performance. Results are delivered nearly in real time.
Key parameters measured include (but are not limited to) ball speed, launch angle, azimuth, spin-tilt axis, total spin, club head speed, smash factor, club path, and angle of attack. Clubhead measurement is included with GCQuad purchases.
An optional Essential Putting Analysis add-on gives you detailed insight into every aspect of your putting.
The GCQuad comes bundled with the FSX software suite which includes FSX 2020, FSX Play, and FSX Pro — these software solutions enable you to turn the GCQuad into a full-blown golf simulator. You can either enjoy it at the range or use a hitting net with a laptop or mobile device.
Possible third-party integrations are E6 CONNECT, GSPro, Awesome Golf, and Creative Golf.
The GCQuad is a serious launch monitor for serious golfers. For full details on what it can do, go to this page.
7. Rapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor
The Rapsodo MLM2PRO, created by the same company behind the massively successful SkyTrak launch monitor, 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.
In particular, the MLM2PRO introduces Android compatibility and golf simulation support, giving it complete visibility into the games of golfers all around the world.
Two things that set the MLM2PRO apart from other launch monitors in its class are its unique Impact Vision and Shot Vision views with active ball tracer. The latter is well-suited for outdoor use where the ball can take its full flight.
Features
The MLM2PRO launch monitor combines Doppler radar with two high-speed cameras. It measures 13 club and ball parameters, although RPT balls (included) must be used to obtain spin readings.
The cameras built into the MLM2PRO pave the way for:
- Impact Vision: provides a slow-motion closeup of the club swinging through the ball
- Shot Vision: gives a down-the-line video of your shot with a ball tracer
Because the MLM2PRO has no onboard display, its features must be accessed through the companion MLM2PRO app. 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.
In addition, you can enjoy golf simulation with the MLM2PRO through Rapsodo Range, Rapsodo Courses, Target Range, E6 CONNECT, E6 APEX, GSPro, and Awesome Golf. All of these options can be accessed through a mobile device.
While the MLM2PRO is considered a “budget” launch monitor at well under $1000, a Premium Membership to the app ($200/year) is required to access many of its features.
However, the accuracy of the unit is outstanding, and Rapsodo has come out with several major improvements to the system since it first launched onto the market including greatly enhanced, more realistic graphics, elevations and undulations across all of Rapsodo’s in-house simulation solutions.
8. Garmin Approach G80 GPS & Launch Monitor
The highly rated Garmin Approach G80, from the same company behind the Garmin Approach R10, is a unique product.
It’s essentially an all-in-one handheld golf GPS with an integrated launch monitor, which means that not only can you obtain the essential data metrics for your shot, but you can also view top-down colour maps and get GPS yardages to any point on the golf course.
The G80 is unquestionably an outdoor launch monitor. It works well if you want to view your metrics as you’re playing a round of golf, but it also works great as a standard launch monitor or golf GPS.
Features
By pressing the quick-access radar button, you can set up the Approach G80 to measure club head speed, ball speed, smash factor, tempo and estimated carry after each shot. These numbers are easily viewable on the 3.5″ sunlight-readable touchscreen.
Enhancing the launch monitor experience are:
- a practice mode which evaluates your swing and provides feedback to help improve your accuracy and consistency
- the ability to play virtual rounds on any course against friends or other players around the world
- a tempo training mode which helps you determine the backswing and downswing times that are best for you
In addition, the G80 is a full-featured golf GPS. Preloaded with over 41,000 courses, you can get distances to the front, back and middle of the green, hazards and layups, and you can touch any point on the map to get the yardage to that. You also have access to:
- Green View which gives you a closeup look of the green’s true shape, along with a drag-and-drop pin for precise yardages into greens
- information on the direction of the pin for blind shots
- PlaysLike Distances which account for elevation changes
- green contour data on select courses (with a Garmin Golf app membership)
Furthermore, it can be used as a digital scorecard and can be paired with the powerful Garmin Golf app. The battery life is up to 15 hours in GPS mode.
If you’re content with just being able to measure a few basic parameters and appreciate golf GPS functionality, the Approach G80 is a must-have device.
Buying Guide
There are many launch monitors on the market that are suitable for outdoor use. We understand that making a decision on which model to get can feel a bit overwhelming.
It turns out that it’s not that difficult to find the best one for you once you consider all the factors that will affect your experience and match it with what your goals are.
Here are the most important factors you need to consider when determining which launch monitor will serve you best:
1. Portability
When it comes to outdoor launch monitors, portability is obviously essential. The launch monitor needs to be a freestanding unit like the Mevo Gen2, Approach R50, or EYE MINI.
Fixed launch monitors, which typically refer to powerful overhead systems like the Uneekor EYE XO and Trackman iO, are generally out of the question since they are designed for indoor use. The only instance where they could possibly work for an outdoor setup is via a covered outdoor area like a canopy.
Freestanding launch monitors, on the other hand, are portable. They can be carried to the range, sit in front of you or behind you in the hitting area, and can be moved around as needed. The majority of launch monitors fall under this category.
These kinds of launch monitors can also be moved indoors and used there with a net or impact screen setup whenever you want.
The bottom line? If you want to use your launch monitor outdoors, forget about overhead-mounted or otherwise fixed systems like the EYE XO or ProTee VX.
2. Tracking System
The exact method a launch monitor uses to track a shot and measure data mostly isn’t important as long as it’s accurate and reliable, but there is one thing to keep in mind.
Generally, launch monitors are either camera-based or radar-based.
Camera-based systems capture high-speed images of the ball immediately after impact and, based on these images, derive various data parameters.
Camera-based launch monitors perform very well indoors and outdoors, but some models can have issues in bright, direct sunlight or if there is excessive glare on the ball or clubhead. They typically only need to be positioned a couple feet in front of the golfer perpendicular to the target line.
This means that a golfer doesn’t need extra space behind them for their setup, so in that sense, a camera-based launch monitor is space-efficient. On the other hand, if you’re at the range, launch monitors positioned like this may be vulnerable to shanks or severe mis-hits from other golfers in neighbouring hitting areas.
Radar-based systems, in contrast, track the ball through Doppler radar technology. These radars emit a microwave signal from the unit which bounces back from the golf ball after impact.
Radar units are widely considered to be optimal for outdoor use because they don’t depend on ambient lighting conditions. If you’re at the range, though, and the unit is behind you, it may be in the path of foot traffic and at risk for potential theft, so you should be cognizant of that.
Each type of launch monitor has its benefits and drawbacks, and these should be taken into account when making your choice.
3. Apps & Software
Do you have a PC, iOS or Android device? If so, you can take advantage of free companion apps and in-house software that is offered with most of the launch monitors on today’s market.
All of the launch monitors reviewed on this page come with apps and/or simulator software. These apps typically unlock an array of additional features such as advanced tracking, skills challenges, and even new data parameters.
Launch monitors that don’t have an onboard display will typically require the use of a companion app. Either way, apps and software are going to give you a much richer experience, so you should check out the apps available and see what they offer.
Just be aware that some apps can experience occasional glitches or be out-of-date, especially apps for older launch monitors. Also, if you plan to use PC software outdoors, you’ll need a laptop.
4. Parameters
Which data parameters does the launch monitor track, and what parameters do you want to see?
As you might expect, less-expensive portable models will tend to measure less parameters, while more expensive models will provide a more detailed picture of your ball and club data. This isn’t a hard and fast rule, however.
Most golfers at a minimum want key metrics like distance (total, carry) and ball speed, and pretty much all launch monitors offer this. If you’re looking for a more detailed analysis with information like dispersion, club path and angle of attack, your choice of launch monitors will narrow a bit.
Make sure that the launch monitor you’re buying has all the data points that you’re looking for.
5. Budget
Not everyone can afford launch monitors that cost $2000+, and fortunately, there are options that cost well below this amount.
Cheaper launch monitors tend to be more portable, but the less you spend, the less you’ll usually get.
This could be in the form of worse accuracy, fewer ball flight parameters, a less convenient setup, or less added features, but most of the price differential usually comes from technology, accuracy and reliability.
In this guide, we’ve tried to include quality launch monitors over a range of budgets that golfers might have. But the great thing is that you don’t have to drop the full cost of it at once.
Our recommended launch monitor source here provides easy financing options that allow you to pay for more expensive models over the course of a year or longer. Don’t forget about this option.
Conclusion
Launch monitors suitable for outdoor use should work well whether it’s cloudy, sunny or dark. Radar-based units tend to be best suited for this, but most camera-based launch monitors also work very well outdoors.
Finding a launch monitor that meets your needs is certainly possible with some research.
Each of the launch monitor 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.
We recommend reading user reviews of launch monitors to obtain useful insights as to how they actually perform. This can help you a great deal in the decision-making process.
Thanks for reading this guide. Are you looking for a launch monitor for outdoor use? Do you have any questions? Feel free to leave a comment down below.
