Top 10+ Best Golf Simulators Under $5000
Shako Memon
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Golf simulators are a great way to play golf at home and improve your skills. With a golf simulator, you can play at your leisure without worrying about the weather or the time of day.
Many golf simulators include a variety of game types and multiplayer features, so you can play with friends and family whenever you want instead of spending time driving to the range.
Many golfers want to play and practice golf in the rain or shine, day or night, but they don’t want to spend $5,000 or more.
Best Golf Simulators Under $5000
1. Bushnell Launch Pro Training Golf Simulator Package
With the Bushnell Launch Pro, you get the power of Foresight Sports’ GC3 at a huge discount, paying only for the features you want.
After you hit your shot, you can view your data on the onboard LCD display. You can unlock more features and sign up for an optional Gold Subscription to use the simulation software on the Launch Pro.
The Launch Pro is widely regarded by many in the golf community as one of the best value home launch monitors on the market.
The Launch Pro Net Bundle comes with either the Ball Data or Ball & Club Data enabled Launch Pro. The former provides ball data only, which is all you need for golf simulation.
Options include the premium SIGPRO Golf Net, which features a square, rectangular or round net and an aluminum frame with snap button system. Capable of withstanding ball speeds of up to 225 mph, the SIGPRO is easy to assemble, folds up, and can be attached to the SIG Preferred Impact Screen for projector use.
You can also add the SIGPRO Turf (6 ft x 10 ft) or the SIGPRO Softy, one of premium hitting mats available in a variety of sizes, to your package.
The Launch Pro comes with a 14-day free trial for club data (ball unit only) and a 14-day trial for the Gold subscription. The Gold subscription, which costs $499 per year, gives you access to 25 courses, sessions, clubs, FSX Pro, FSX Play, Awesome Golf, third-party integrations, and more.
A minimum of 8.5 ft high x 10 ft wide x 16 ft deep is recommended for this setup, but exact space requirements will vary depending on the components you choose. You should be able to swing your longest club without any obstructions.
The Launch Pro is a fantastic device that delivers professional-level accuracy, but setup can be a bit tricky and there are a few issues you may run into along the way.
2. SkyTrak Practice Golf Simulator
The SkyTrak Practice Golf Simulator Studio provides everything you need to create a virtual practice range at home at an affordable price. The protective metal case is easy to install with side barriers and provides essential protection.
The high-quality net is produced by The Net Return Pro Series and features an automatic ball return feature and can withstand ball speeds of over 225 mph. The net itself is rated for 250K shots, so it will last. The durable UV-treated polyester netting features a lightweight aluminum frame that is durable and portable.
The SkyTrak Launch Monitor included in this simulation package is extremely accurate with high-speed photometric technology used in other monitors costing $10,000 and up. The golf simulator projector is not included, but you can connect the system to a PC, tablet, or TV next to the net. However, it may not be compatible with Macs.
There are a few features you can add, such as the SwingTurf golf mat and game improvement plan, including target practice, skill assessment, and progress tracking via the SkyGolf mobile app.
Overall, the affordable price and simple setup make this a great golf simulator for beginners and those on a budget looking to get started playing golf at home.
3. FlightScope Mevo+ Home Golf Simulator Package
With cutting-edge technology, great compatibility with other platforms (like the E6 Connect), and a host of cool golf gear like projectors with protective nets and screens, there are plenty of options to choose from, and they’ll help you get there in no time.
Great use of technology, especially when it comes to connecting to popular platforms. If you prefer Mevo Plus, this simulator setup is for you. It is based on radar rather than cameras, so it should have an advantage over Skytrak.
I know this home golf simulator package is great because I have used it myself. FlightScope makes a great app that offers a variety of features, whether it is performance analysis or just casual fun. You will also like the fact that the entire simulator setup is compact and easy to move.
The simulator package comes with its own app with plenty of features for all purposes. Plus, it is compatible with E6 Connect. The free version only gives you access to limited resources.
Like its competitors, it offers a few upgrade options. For example, the iPad offers a much cheaper screen setup than a gaming laptop. The app for the launch monitor is also available in a free or paid version.
You will need to purchase a premium ball net. GoSports offers an automatic ball return feature and uses a durable steel frame to withstand ball impacts of up to 225 mph. But of course, it costs extra.
4. OptiShot 2 Platinum Golf Simulator Series Studio
For those looking to improve their golf skills, the OptiShot 2 Platinum package is an award-winning golf simulator. It offers incredible swing accuracy and instant feedback on your shots. The software is included in the package along with the Platinum Course, which is available at a lower price than other OptiShot packages.
16 high-speed 48MHz infrared sensors are precisely tuned and calibrated to remember your favorite clubs and monitor your swing before, during, and after contact. It provides instant, accurate feedback on every shot so you can perfect your skills.
15 courses and multiple games to play with multiple people. It provides a virtual experience that feels like playing real golf. This system is easy to install and compatible with Windows and Mac.
This affordable package includes a mat, golf net, and simulator to give you the best home golf experience possible.
5. Garmin Approach R10 Flex Space Golf Simulator
Another sweet friend of the golf market. Solid build quality, accurate data measurement, and useful software. Plus, there are plenty of useful golf practice items. Now, all I ask is that you keep an eye out for all the upgrades. If you choose the best one, the final price will go up quickly.
The Garmin Approach R10 is a great value for money golf simulator that includes everything you need without spending more than $5,000.
I have used Garmin’s launch monitor and can attest to its quality. I have played with a variety of golf clubs and balls and it has shown me multiple parameters with the utmost precision. As with other simulators sold in online stores, this setup uses items from top manufacturers and ensures full compatibility between them.
The Garmin R10 is a full-featured unit. It has a tripod mount that is 6-8ft behind the ball. It can be used both indoors and outdoors and measures over 10 parameters of your swing.
Another interesting benefit is that this home simulator setup allows you to use services such as E6 CONNECT, Awesome Golf, The Golf Club 2019, and Home Tee Hero.
The HomeCourse ProScreen 180 included in the package has bulletproof sidewalls. The arms can optionally be extended to form an ultra-wide 16:9 projection area.
The motors in the foldable screen are powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can last for months at a time, and can be controlled with the included wireless remote.
6. SkyTrak Plus Home Golf Simulator
This simulator uses the next generation of SkyTrak, the SkyTrak Plus (ST+) launch monitor. SkyTrak+ has several improvements over the original SkyTrak, including the addition of club data, a faster processor, greatly improved outdoor performance, no need for club or ball stickers for data, and courses added to the software.
This affordable package combines the ST+ with a high-quality The Net Return hitting net that can withstand ball speeds up to 225 mph. It’s extremely portable, so you can take it on the go or outdoors when you need to.
ST+ adds a new dual Doppler radar system combined with an improved photometric camera system and machine learning software to provide a new level of accuracy and comprehensive data measurement.
The ST+ Basic Plan is included, allowing you to practice and analyze your data on a virtual 3D driving range. Upgrade to the Essential Plan, which unlocks a variety of additional features and allows you to integrate a variety of third-party simulator software.
The Pro Turf Mat is 10 feet long and consistently returns the ball from the screen to the hitting area. It can also be used as a putting green and can be rolled up for storage like a carpet. This package has a variety of upgrades and add-ons that can be added with a single click.
People really like the quality and simplicity of this setup, and the fact that it’s less complicated to work with than a projector setup. Check out this page for more information on what’s included in the package and what optional add-ons are available.
7. Swing Caddie SC4 PlayBetter SimStudio Package
The Swing Caddie SC4 is Voice Caddie’s latest and most powerful low-cost launch monitor. The SC4 supports golf simulation, but it also has an onboard display that lets you get numbers without software. This is a combination you’ll only see on expensive, high-end devices.
This package combines the SC4 with PlayBetter’s SimStudio simulator, giving you a high-quality, full-size enclosure, impact screen, projector, and heating mat for under $5,000.
The Swing Caddie SC4 is a Doppler radar device that measures eight data parameters: carry/total distance, apex height, spin rate, club head speed, ball speed, launch angle, smash factor, and launch direction.
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The SC4 offers a wealth of visualization features within its companion app, and also benefits from integration with E6 CONNECT and Orion Live. Includes voice output, barometric pressure sensor, and remote control to operate the launch monitor from a distance.
Your space must fit the enclosure size you choose and allow you to swing your longest club. It must also be deep enough to accommodate the SC4, but less than most other radar-based devices.
For golfers who love an onboard display but are still on a tight budget, there is no better package than this.
8. SkyTrak Launch Monitor and Simulator
The SkyTrak Launch Monitor is one of the most popular golf simulators used by both professional and recreational golfers. While the monitor captures specific ball flight and key launch data, and other systems costing $9,000 or more, the software is available at a fraction of the cost.
The simulator software option is easy to set up using your phone, tablet, or laptop, so you can view your shots on your favorite practice range or golf course. The SkyTrak Launch Monitor uses photometric technology to capture multiple high-speed pictures of the first few inches of the ball’s flight.
The measurements are then sent to SkyTrak’s flight model to create a highly accurate ball flight simulation. This makes the launch monitor great for both indoor and outdoor play.
After you set up the system at home, you can choose a package to play rounds on different courses, take on different challenges, or hit balls on the practice range. It makes it easy to play golf with friends and family, regardless of the weather. The various packages offer additional features and challenges to keep you focused.
With world-class golf simulation options, the SkyTrak Launch Monitor is well-made, user-friendly, and great value for the money.
9. SkyTrak Golf Simulator Training Package
Skytrak is powerful enough to provide a great experience, even with a low-budget equipment kit. Compared to other products, this golf simulator offers a realistic experience that can be seen as a challenge for experienced golfers.
In short, you will be leaving the projector, floor mount, and screen behind. Instead, you can play with an impact net with side barriers and high-quality SIGPRO grass mats and heating mats.
For those who play indoors, this is the best way to play golf in the box. The golf simulator package includes a SIGPRO net with side barriers. And sandbags to keep everything in place for golf practice.
The Skytrak Launch Monitor extends the quality with this plan. Play & Improve provides many additional tools to track your progress and show you how to get better. A great option for the average golfer.
High-quality grass and hitting mats are also available. SIGPRO produces the best golf equipment, so you can be sure that you will get great performance from your mat. And you can swing with the precision of a pro.
If you want a golf simulator under $5,000, you will miss the projector. However, you can always connect another screen for practice, such as a laptop or tablet. All you need is creativity and flexibility.
10. Rapsodo MLM2PRO Practice Golf Simulator
This product from Rain or Shine Golf pairs the Rapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor featured in the other packages above with either the SwingNet Lite or SwingNet Pro Heating Net.
Do you like what you see on the MLM2PRO but want to save money on a solid net installation? This is one of the best options.
This package also includes the SwingTurf Heating Mat (5’x5’ or 4’x9’ in size) and optional landing pad grass.
The MLM2PRO features must be accessed via the companion MLM2PRO app available for iOS or Android. This well-crafted app offers powerful analytics including Rapsodo Combines and Session Insights.
From performance testing to club gapping details and shot shape trends in the spread circle, the MLM2PRO app will help you understand your game much more deeply.
You also get access to Rapsodo Range, Rapsodo Courses, E6 CONNECT and Awesome Golf for practice and course play. If you’re looking for the most realistic software experience, choose E6 CONNECT.
The included SwingTurf heating mat provides the optimal balance between realistic fairway feel and forgiveness.
The minimum space requirement for this setup is 8ft high x 9ft wide x 16ft deep. We love its versatility, convenience and portability, and it’s affordable for most golfers.
11. OptiShot 2 Golf-In-A-Box 3 Simulator
Simple and easy to use, the OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator offers great value for beginners on a budget. This complete package includes the basics for casual home use, including a net, screen, projector, and mat.
It doesn’t have some of the advanced features, but the fun multiplayer mode ensures fun. For those on a budget looking for a functional simulator that focuses on basic and casual play, the OptiShot 2 is the right choice.
If you’re on a budget, this is the golf simulator for you. It has a launch monitor, a safety net, a projector screen, and a projector. What else do you need?
The Optishot launch monitor is very simple, but that’s not a problem. In fact, it’s easy to use, especially if you don’t have time to waste. If you want to play golf without any frills and have the money to spare, this is one of the best golf simulators under $5,000.
The OptiShot Launch Monitor uses an infrared system to monitor your swing. I've tried it with a lot of golf clubs and a lot of different balls and have had no issues at all. It's pretty capable for general use scenarios.
The built-in software is a lot of fun. There are plenty of virtual games for single golfers or groups, and there are also online tournaments. It can be a great motivator for practice.
The screen is attached with Velcro for easy removal. If you want to play somewhere else, you can quickly remove it. This way, you can enjoy the automatic ball return of the Net Return Pro Series.
It doesn’t have the highest-end projector, but it does the job. It supports 1024 x 768 pixel resolution and delivers a sharp image on the included screen. It’s everything you need in a golf simulator for the price.
Conclusion
Golf simulators have become much more accessible and affordable over the past decade, and more companies are developing cutting-edge simulation technology. This means more golfers than ever can afford to purchase their own equipment.
A cheap simulator under $5,000 can still be a great addition to your golf toolkit. With a little research, it’s certainly possible to find a simulator package that fits your needs.
Each of the simulator options reviewed above offers great value for your money. We’ve provided you with the information you need to make a decision. Now, the rest is up to you.
While there’s likely no golf simulator that will fit all your needs, some come close.
FAQs
How to Find the Best Golf Simulator?
There are many golf simulators to suit a variety of budgets. Typically, you will need a golf simulator and/or a launch monitor with a golf simulation, a golf mat, a golf simulator screen, and a projector to run the simulation software. There are a few factors to consider when trying to find the setup that is best for you.
The first is size and portability. Golf simulators are large, so you will need to know how much space you have available, either indoors or outdoors. Portable golf simulators may offer more flexibility if you plan on setting up and taking down frequently.
The next is whether you want a screen or a net. Screens are more expensive, but they display the simulation image right in front of you. A net allows you to hit the ball and view the simulation and data and statistics on a separate screen.
Higher accuracy, available golf courses, and customization options are other things to consider when trying to find the best golf simulator for you. A golf simulator is a significant investment, so it is essential to consider all your options before making a purchase.
What is the cheapest golf simulator?
There are great golf simulators for every budget, and some of the most basic setups cost less than $1,000. Most inexpensive golf simulators don’t usually include a projector or screen, but you can set up the system on your tablet or computer instead.
The most affordable mass-produced golf simulator on the market is the OptiShot 2, which costs $299. It uses infrared sensors with a special golf mat to record data points from your shots, then displays them visually on a connected device. For those on a budget, this can be a great start to an indoor golf setup.
Are home golf simulators worth it?
Depending on what you want to get out of the experience, a home golf simulator can be a very valuable purchase. If you’re looking to improve your swing, trajectory, or other skills, having a simulator at home that you can play at any time, regardless of the weather, can be helpful.
Many simulators are marketed toward beginners, but if you’re just looking to play recreationally, you may not think it’s a worthwhile investment. If you plan on using it frequently and improving your skills on the practice range, it may be a good idea to set up a home golf simulator with your family.
How much room do I need for a golf simulator?
The room size you need will vary depending on the individual golf simulator. However, the minimum space required for setup is generally 10’ wide x 10’ long x 8.5’ high.
The player's height, arm length, and swing range are all factors in the space required. If you are planning to install an indoor golf simulator, it is important to know the size of the room you plan to use before purchasing.
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