Best Golf Simulators For Home

One of the most rapidly growing trends in golf is the popularity of home simulators. Prices can range from $200 to $75,000 or even more. With an unprecedented array of options available, finding the ideal solution tailored to your budget and space has become increasingly challenging. making the search seem overwhelming.

We are here to help find or build the best golf simulator for your home!

Understanding the Components of a Golf Home Simulator

For those venturing into the realm of indoor golf simulation, the basics include:

• Net or impact screen
• Hitting mat
• Phone, iPad, tablet or computer
• Simulator or launch monitor system

For enthusiasts looking to elevate their setup, additional components may include:

• Projector
• Hitting enclosure
• Artificial turf for putting
• Know your space

Golfers considering making their own home setup want the most realistic golfing experience. Understanding your space, measuring to see what will fit and what won’t, is critical. Measure to see what fits best in your space and determine whether this will be a permanent golfing area or something that must be taken down after each use. The answer will help determine price and what components are most suitable for you.

Full Build All-In-One Kits

Before we break down each area in depth, let’s cover the “one-stop shop” options. Those not wanting to build a home system piece by piece can purchase a full kit with all the components from one place. Most major companies offer package deals with their units or the option to contact them to build a more custom setup. 

Foresight Sports

Offering four different indoor-compatible systems (two fixed overhead units and two portable units), they offer SIM in a Box systems starting at $9,999 all the way up to $33,995. At $14,995, the Birdie package includes the following:

• Foresight GC3 launch monitor
• Full simulator setup: Frame, impact screen, projector, turf strip, hitting mat and computer cart. A computer is not included. We go into further details on the GC3 below.

Full Swing KIT Studio Screen Package

Many will know Full Swing from their partnerships with Tiger Woods and Jon Rahm. Their KIT Studio Screen Package offers everything you will need to enjoy one of the best golf simulator experiences in the comfort of your own home.

• Full Swing KIT launch monitor
• Premium Short-Throw gaming projector
• Aluminum frame
• Tight-knit polyester impact screen
• Protective foam padding around screen
• Landing pad turf
• Premium hitting mat
• Turf extension
• Ceiling project mount, cables and adaptors

SkyTrak SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

The Indoor Golf Shop offers different packages with various options and price points. One option is the SkyTrak SIG10 Golf Simulator Package priced at $8,449.99 and includes the following.

• SkyTrak launch monitor
• Complete simulator studio
• SIGPRO premium screen
• Projector and cables
• Play and Improve software with golf course play

FlightScope Mevo+ SIG10 Golf Simulator Package

Another package deal from the Indoor Golf Shop. The key difference is this system includes the FlightScope Mevo Plus launch monitor 2023 Edition and E6 special license with 10 golf courses. This package costs $8,199.99 while still including these pieces.

• Complete simulator studio
• SIGPRO premium screen
• Projector and cables

Rapsodo Golf Sim Studio Enclosure 10

Rapsodo Golf offers different sizes and options but the Golf Sim Studio Enclosure 10 is their most popular. With an easy-click builder, a golfer can find the proper setup for their garage or home. This core package costs $4,474.97 and includes these items.

• Rapsodo MLM2Pro
• Golf Sim Studio Enclosure 10
• Hitting mat
• Collection mat
• Projector mount
• 25-foot cable
• Projector

GolfJoy Portable GDS Plus Golf Simulator Kit

Another option for a full setup from GolfJoy. Much like the others, it will include everything you need to get your home setup completely for virtual golfing. Costing $6,188, it includes:

• GDS Plus launch monitor
• Complete simulator enclosure
• High-quality impact screen
• Premium hitting mat system and turf
• Projector and cable
• Free mobile and iPad app
• GolfJoy PC software subscription (one month)

The Ultimate Budget Option: Phigolf 2

No net, enclosure, projector, hitting mat or golf ball required. The Phigolf2 includes a weighted training stick, several game modes, tournaments and iOS or Android app.

At less than $300, this obviously is not meant to be the ultimate simulator setup but it’s a good way to keep swinging the golf club during those cold months. If you want full data and the feel of hitting a golf ball, other options will be better.

Honorable Mention: Golfzon Simulator Packages

Golfzon offers several different models and packages. However, prices are challenging to determine as purchases must go through their inquiry service.

Simulator Build: Piece by Piece

The rest of this comprehensive guide aims to present a diverse array of options, providing any golfer with the key information to create a complete indoor golf simulator package.

A Quick Note Before We Begin

If you’re seeking budget-friendly options, you can find valuable resources in the “Best Golf Practice Setups” guide. Featuring two options under $1,600 and two higher-end choices, this guide caters to varying budgets although not all listed options function as golf simulators.

The Launch Monitor System – The Brains

This is arguably the most crucial decision in your setup, influencing both your budget and overall system capabilities. While we’ll explore the core features of several launch monitors here, our detailed “Best Golf Launch Monitors Guide for 2023” offers additional insights into potential options.

There are also key differences between how they track shots and capture ball flights. These two methods are either camera-based or radar-based. Doppler radar systems track ball flight and make calculations to determine results. The results are often enhanced with special golf balls that result in greater accuracy. Typically, more space is required for these systems. Camera-based systems use high-speed cameras to capture golf ball and golf club data which then results in feedback on the device or screen.

When considering the price of a launch monitor, the purchaser should evaluate the capabilities of each unit. Whether they involve basic core functions, graphic capabilities, or golf ball and club head data, not all units are alike. Factors such as the ability to read carry distance, launch angle, ball speed, spin rate, angle of attack, club path, face angle, etc., should be taken into account.

Premium Launch Monitors

Foresight Sports GCQuad

• Widely regarded as the gold standard
• Comprehensive features with ball data, club data and putting analysis 
• Large hitting zone (18″ x 14″) with four built-in cameras for realistic data capture For indoor or outdoor use
• Powered by FSX Play simulation software with 25 included golf courses 
• $19,999 

Trackman 4 and IO

• Trackman IO (Indoor Optimized) designed for indoor spaces 
• Doppler radar-based system
• Access to 280 golf courses 
• Trackman 4 available from $21,495; Trackman IO from $13,995 

Full Swing

• Top-tier golf simulator company 
• Camera-based system staged above the hitting area
• Sport Series Simulator starting at $44,950 

Options for standard or wide screens. Mid-Tier Launch Monitors

Full Swing Kit Launch Monitor

• Doppler radar-based, portable for indoor or outdoor use
• Bright display, simple setup. No Android support
• Access to over 50 different courses worldwide
• $4,999 

Foresight GC3/Bushnell Launch Pro

• Foresight GC3 and Bushnell Launch Pro feature three high-speed cameras 
• Different pricing structures 
• Foresight GC3: $6,999 for full simulation capabilities
• Bushnell Launch Pro: U.S. only, starting at $1,999 for the unit 
• Full simulator capabilities with “Gold” subscription at $499 per year 

Uneekor EYE Mini Launch Monitor

• IOS/PC-based, camera-based system
• “View” software package included; additional $1,000 for simulation capabilities 
• $4,500 for unit; $1,000 for simulation capabilities

Under $3,500 Options

SkyTrak + Launch Monitor

• Indoor-only unit, dual Doppler radar-based
• Driving range options standard
• Priced under $3,500 with additional annual membership for course access 
• $2,995 for the unit, $249.95 for annual membership 

FlightScope Mevo+

• Radar system with various packages for an enhanced experience 
• Standard package includes simulation and games for 10 courses 
• $2,199 for Mevo+, Pro Package an additional $1,000. 

GolfJoy GDS Plus Launch Monitor

• Portable with basic subscription offering four driving ranges and 30 courses
• $3,499. Annual subscription $199 

Under $1,000 Launch Monitors

Rapsodo MLM2Pro

• Portable, camera-based monitor with full simulation mode
• Access to 30,000+ courses and third-party apps
• $699.99 for unit and annual subscription of $199

Garmin R10

• Extremely portable, access to 42,000+ virtual courses
• Automatically records video of swings
• Value-focused, may sacrifice some accuracy
• $599.99

Hitting Net/Enclosure/Impact Screen

Determining the size of your golf net or enclosure is crucial, taking into account ceiling height and space utilization. For portable or temporary use, a golf net is ideal to keep the cost down. Top options include Spornia’s SPG 8 XL net, Net Return, Gosports, and Rukket. These options are suitable for movable or temporary home golf simulators. It’s worth noting that not all launch monitors are net compatible.

For a more permanent solution, the ideal setup cost will be higher, requiring a projector, impact screen and enclosure.

Golf enclosures can be found everywhere if you are looking to build out separately. Once again, prices will range widely. However, they can be found for as little as $1,000 with framing, screen and nylon enclosure. Size is a major determining factor on price.

Golf Mat and Putting Surface

The playing area is often overlooked but crucial for a great golf simulator experience. Recognized brands for different budgets and situations include:

• SwingTurf: Minimal bounce, stable and sturdy; suitable for wooden or traditional tees
• The Holy Grail Hitting Mat: Replaceable hitting strip, durable foam backing with real feel
• Wittek Quatro: Excellent turf interactions, shock-absorbing foam backing
• SIGPRO Softy: Highlight golf mat for impact protection
• Me and My Golf Tri-Turf Hitting mat: Suitable for smaller spaces
• BirdieBall: Dual hitting and putting solutions for an all-in-one solution

Prices vary based on size, ranging from budget options at $50 to higher-end solutions exceeding $1,000.

Projectors

“Tricky” is a word that could be used for selecting a projector. The options are near limitless and sources range from professional shops to Amazon. The best projectors are ones that are 4K enabled. Short-throw laser projectors are ideal for overall quality. There are even some that have “golf mode” which corrects some color alterations. Typical prices for projectors start at $300.

Conclusion

As this comprehensive guide draws to a close, we hope you now have the basic knowledge and insights necessary to navigate the intricate world of home golf simulators. 

Our descriptions of launch monitor systems, ranging from premium solutions like Foresight Sports’ GCQuad to budget-friendly options such as Rapsodo MLM2Pro, reflect a commitment to catering to diverse preferences and budgets. Highlighting essential components—hitting nets, enclosures, impact screens, playing surfaces—is intended to serve as your guide towards creating an immersive indoor golf experience.

Beyond the technical details, this article underscores the importance of considering metrics beyond price, like shot-tracking capabilities, space requirements and additional features to suit your individual preferences. 

We do emphasize that you continue to do extensive research before making your decision and, as always, feel free to ask us any questions before you pull the trigger on your purchase.