Have you ever dreamed of having your own personal golf simulator at home, where you can play a round on Pebble Beach or practice your swing on the range anytime you want?
With recent advancements making simulator technology more accessible, high-end setups are no longer only for the wealthy. Now there are solutions to fit a variety of budgets.
This article explores the best at-home golf simulators available today, with a launch monitor to track data, a screen or net to catch balls, and a projector to simulate play. We provide comparisons of the best options across different price points (including affordable starter bundles as well as pro-level systems that rival commercial simulators).
We also outline key factors to consider before buying a specific system, like required space, special features and overall cost.
Please, keep reading for more.
No time to read the whole article? No worries. We’ve done the work for you and compiled a list of the top performers.
| Product | Features | Our Rating |
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Our Golf Simulators For Home Picks
We have tested a lot of packages from various manufacturers to provide you with the best simulator setups that you can use at home.
Please bear in mind that all the products we have reviewed were tested exclusively for home use. In other words, our main focus was on simulator packages that you can use at home, and even if some may be used outdoors, in the garage, or in any other different locations, they were tested (and approved by our testing team) for home use.
Foresight Sports Sim-in-a-Box: Birdie Plus Package – Best Overall
The Sim-in-a-Box Birdie Plus Package from Foresight Sports offers a complete premium indoor golf simulator solution for your home. Powered by the GC3 launch monitor featuring three high-precision cameras, it provides unmatched accuracy in shot analysis and simulation play.
You get the fully portable GC3 launch monitor that displays critical club and ball data on its touchscreen. It seamlessly works both indoors with the included simulator setup and outdoors on the range. The simulator setup comprises a sturdy frame, large impact screen, high-lumen projector, turf mat and strip, and a cart for the gaming computer. The computer comes preloaded with Foresight’s FSX software suite with 35 championship courses.
With its easy portability and continuity between indoor simulation and outdoor practice, the Birdie Plus Package suits golfers looking to improve their skills year-round. The GC3’s unmatched analytics help ingrain proper technique. Foresight’s realistic course mapping algorithms make you feel like you are playing the world’s best tracks.
Pros
- Portable GC3 launch monitor for indoor and outdoor use
- Triscopic high-speed cameras provide superior shot tracking
- Touchscreen displays rich club and ball data
- Simulator setup has all necessary components
- Preloaded gaming computer with Foresight software
Cons
- High price tag
- Large footprint required
For golfers serious about analyzing and improving their game, the Sim-in-a-Box Birdie Plus Package is worth its pretty high price. The advanced sensor technology of the GC3 combined with FSX’s realistically mapped courses, it feels like you are playing at legendary courses. This is as close as it gets to on-course simulation at home.
HD Golf Simulator Packages – Best Premium Packages
Here at Complete Golf Store, we have always had a sweet spot for HD Golf simulators, thanks to the amount of innovation and creativity that was brought into the making of what we believe is one of the best and most expensive golf sims to date. We just fell in love with the system from the very first time we tested it!
First, the HD Golf Simulator Package comes in two versions, and for a high price: Expect to pay around $56,000 for the HD Golf Ultimate Training Package and around $70,000 for its bigger brother, the Ultimate Entertainment Package. Very few lucky people will be able to afford those technological wonders!
Both packages use photometric technology with ultra-high-speed cameras to track all the details of your shots and provide useful ball and club data. The simulator even provides data that no other competitor can deliver: Stance, weight distribution, and shift, using pressure-sensitive sensors (around 600) included in the hitting mat.
While the Ultimate Training package is limited to golf only, the pricier Ultimate Entertainment Package uses HD Golf’s Multi-Sport Software Package to play simulations of 11 sports in total, including golf.
Moreover, with the HD Golf simulators, we are not talking about simulation per se, but much more than that. The company used proprietary technology that combines high-definition images, satellite and geographical data to recreate some of the world’s most famous courses with unparalleled details and graphical fidelity. You will be able to play Pebble Beach, Muskoka Bay Resort, Kauri Cliffs, and many more as if you were actually there!
HD Golf made no compromises in the making of their simulator. Quality, aesthetics, comfort, immersiveness, and realism are all there, but without sacrificing accuracy.
Pros
- Perfect all around: Graphics, quality, comfort, tracking, accuracy, etc.
- One of the most innovative packages we have ever tested.
- Beautiful recreation of multiple sports.
- Very useful club-fitting features
- 2-year warranty and 24/7 support
- New content constantly added by the development team
- Breath-taking visuals and sound quality.
- No need to worry about anything. Just pay for the package, and a team of technicians takes care of everything.
Cons
- Even the cheaper model is too expensive for the majority of players.
The HD Golf Ultimate Entertainment Package is as premium as golf simulators go. It is an excellent product that includes premium quality software and hardware components and provides the best virtual golf experience ever.
If you can afford to buy one of those packages, just go ahead and make the jump; we assure you that you will not regret it! Just be sure that you have enough space to install this huge system; the required dimensions are 16 feet width, 22’6” length, and 10 feet in height.
Foresight Sports GCQuad Training Package – Best Practice System
The GCQuad Training Package offers a highly accurate at-home golf simulator for game improvement. With the accurate GCQuad launch monitor powered by quadrascopic imaging, you get very accurate ball flight metrics to work on your skills.
The included net enclosure, impact screen, turf pad, and your choice of swing mat create a dedicated practice zone in your space. Foresight’s FSX software suite delivers simulated play on 25 championship courses. Combined with the GCQuad’s unmatched analytics, you get the total package for ingraining proper technique through practice.
The GCQuad captures all critical ball data like speed, launch angle, backspin, sidespin, and more. By adding club stickers, it also tracks club metrics without extra hardware. The bright touchscreen displays this data clearly to reinforce fundamentals.
Pros
- Accurate GCQuad launch monitor
- Quadrascopic imaging for reliable metrics
- Excellent practice setup with net, screen and turf
- 25 courses with FSX simulation software
Cons
- Training package with no projector or screen included
The GCQuad Training Package removes any barrier to improving through home simulation. With a practical footprint, fully immersive practice environment, and the acclaimed GCQuad’s unmatched analytics, it delivers on all fronts.
The package offers the essential technology for engraining proper mechanics through repetitive practice on accurate virtual courses.
TRUGOLF APOGEE SIG10 GOLF SIMULATOR PACKAGE – Best Advanced Overhead
Our next pick – the APOGEE SIG10 bundle offers TruGolf’s most advanced launch monitor paired with an immersive, full-swing simulator setup. Powered by proprietary stereoscopic cameras and instant impact recognition, the APOGEE provides unmatched accuracy in ball flight metrics and club analytics.
The included SIG10 enclosure with a premium screen and side netting contains shots for distraction-free practice. The combo works beautifully to create a dedicated improvement zone in your space. With E6 Connect’s realistic course mapping and extensive training content, you get the complete package for perfecting your game and technique through the software’s realistic recreation of courses and ball flight.
The APOGEE captures all critical ball and club data points without markers. The ultra-high speed cameras recognize impacts instantly. The bright display and voice commands reinforce fundamentals during your session.
Pros
- Accurate ball, club metrics
- Instant shot recognition
- Premium enclosure for realistic practice
- E6 software with 27 courses included
- Voice commands for easier control
Cons
- Higher price point
With best-in-class accuracy across all shot types thanks to breakthrough technology, the APOGEE SIG10 bundle is worth every penny you pay for it. The package delivers unmatched performance feedback. Combined with E6 Connect’s realistic course mapping, the enclosure setup provides the ultimate package for lowering scores through game-realistic indoor practice and play.
FlightScope Mevo+ SwingBay Package – 2023 Edition – Best Value
The FlightScope Mevo+ SwingBay package is designed to deliver a complete, turnkey home golf simulation solution. As one of the top golf launch monitors on the market, the Mevo+ uses advanced Doppler radar technology to precisely track over 20 swing and ball flight metrics. Paired with the durable SwingBay enclosure and your choice of premium swing turf, projector setup, and simulation software, this package aims to recreate an authentic golf experience in your own home.
The 2023 edition of the Mevo+ brings upgraded hardware like a long-lasting battery and fixed-angle kickstand alongside powerful simulation software with world-class courses. The SwingBay enclosure itself earns top marks for its industrial-grade aluminum framing, woven polyester impact screen, and easy assembly. Designed and made in the USA, it promises worry-free durability.
Pros
- Complete home golf simulator solution
- Advanced Mevo+ launch monitor tracks 20+ metrics
- Durable USA-made SwingBay enclosure built to last
- Realistic and high-quality swing turf options
- Customizable with upgrade bundles
Cons
- Software upgrades are an added cost
When it comes to the best golf simulators for home use, the FlightScope Mevo+ SwingBay package stands out for its advanced technology paired with durable, made-in-America quality. If you’re serious about analyzing your swing, sharpening your short game and playing simulated rounds at world-famous courses, this customizable golf simulator solution is our recommendation.
SKYTRAK+ FLEX SPACE PACKAGE – Best Retractable Package
The SkyTrak+ Flex Space bundle perfectly suits golfers seeking simulation technology without dedicating permanent space. The retractable impact screen rapidly converts any room into a practice zone. When stowed, it disappears as if it never existed.
The SkyTrak+ itself brings major advancements for unmatched accuracy in ball metrics through dual Doppler radar and optical sensors. With the included Play & Improve software plan, you also get simulated play on 15 meticulously mapped championship courses.
Check Also: The 10 Best SkyTrak Plus Golf Simulators
The package contains everything you need to set up a temporary simulator. This includes an impact screen, enclosure mount, HDMI cables, turf mat, and choice of swing mat. An included remote fully extends or retracts the screen in 30 seconds.
Pros
- Retractable screen for temporary simulation
- SkyTrak+ with advanced sensors
- Simulated play on 15 courses
- Complete portable setup
- Ideal for small spaces
Cons
- Nothing we could think of
For golfers struggling to justify permanent space, the SkyTrak+ Flex Space Package is the best choice to enjoy virtual golf. With unmatched versatility, it brings the range inside whenever you wish. Dedicated components rapidly convert even the smallest area into an accurate practice and playing environment. This maximizes your investment’s impact even in tight and limited spaces.
Uneekor EYE XO2 SwingBay Package – Best Overhead System
The Uneekor EYE XO2 SwingBay Golf Simulator Package is our pick for the best overhead simulator system with great value for the money.
The Uneekor EYE XO2 launch monitor is the centerpiece, boasting cutting-edge technology with 16 data points measured in pinpoint accuracy. This detailed feedback is crucial for understanding your swing mechanics and identifying areas for improvement. The larger hitting zone compared to previous models is a welcome addition, accommodating various swing styles.
The SwingBay enclosure provides a durable and spacious area for your virtual rounds. Its ability to handle ball speeds up to 250 mph suits even the most aggressive swingers. The high-lumen projector delivers crisp visuals, while the choice of mounting options (floor or ceiling) allows for flexible installation.
The beauty of this package lies in its configurability. You can choose your turf size (with or without landing pad), projector setup, and even tech level. This flexibility ensures you tailor the simulator to your budget and needs. Opt for the TGC 2019 software for a vast course library and multiplayer functionality, or upgrade to the Gaming Laptop Bundle for a complete plug-and-play solution.
Pros
- Cutting-edge Uneekor EYE XO2 launch monitor with 16 data points
- Durable and spacious SwingBay enclosure
- Customizable turf, projector, and tech setup options
- High-lumen projector for crisp visuals
- TGC 2019 software with a vast course library and multiplayer (optional)
Cons
- Minimum room size requirement might be restrictive
For the most comprehensive and customizable home simulator experience, the Uneekor EYE XO2 SwingBay package is a top contender. Its cutting-edge launch monitor, immersive environment, and configurable options deliver unparalleled performance and feedback. However, the high price tag and space demands necessitate careful consideration before taking the plunge.
FULL SWING KIT SIG8 GOLF SIMULATOR PACKAGE – Best Radar System
The Full Swing KIT SIG8 bundle couples the compact yet capable KIT launch monitor with an immersive simulator setup. Powered by patented multi-radar sensing, the KIT provides unmatched accuracy across 16 critical ball and club metrics.
The included netted enclosure with premium screen contains shots and isolates you into a dedicated practice zone. The KIT’s radar technology precisely tracks all shot data like carry, launch, spin axis and more. The easy-to-use mobile app lets you dig deeper into your trends. Video replay reinforces proper positions. The enclosure promotes focus for engraining muscle memory.
The SIG8 is a premium enclosure that fits even in smaller spaces; it comes with a 5’x5′ hitting mat that can be upgraded to larger options. If you can afford it, the SIG8 simulator flooring is a great way to enhance the aesthetics and practicality of your system, as you’ll be able to practice all kinds of shots, including putts.
Pros
- Radar sensor accuracy across all shots
- Video swing recording and analysis
- Heads-up display provides instant feedback
- Premium enclosure with screen for enhanced realism
- Compact footprint
Cons
- Radar system – More room length required
The Full Swing KIT SIG8 is a great radar-based package for anyone seeking high-precision performance metrics paired with video analysis. The launch monitor provides pinpoint accuracy through radar technology to quantify your game. For small spaces needing an all-in-one accurate analyzer and simulator, this fits the bill.
UNEEKOR EYE MINI BRONZE GOLF SIMULATOR PACKAGE – Best Versatile System
Uneekor’s EYE Mini Bronze bundle makes high-precision launch monitor technology affordable for tight budgets. Powered by Uneekor’s dual high-speed cameras and club tracking, it provides unmatched accuracy across all shot types.
The included netting and barrier setup creates an isolated zone for practice without any concerns about mishits or errant shots. Combined with the bright display and the View software’s 3D visualization, the package provides a realistic and immersive experience.
The EYE Mini’s cameras precisely track all critical ball and club metrics without markers. The touchscreen clearly displays this data without the need to check any external devices. You can also review your swing video frame-by-frame with the available Swing Optix camera add-on.
Pros
- Accurate ball & club tracking
- Game-like practice setting
- View software included
- Options for high-speed video
- Accessible price point
Cons
- Limited analytics features
- Enclosure prone to ball marks
If you are planning to use your system both indoors (with the screen/projector combo) and outdoors (with the included golf net), this package is the right one for you, as it has all the components to help you practice and improve indoors and out. That’s why it’s our recommended pick for a versatile package with components that fit any kind of use scenario.
Optishot 2 Golf-In-A-Box 2 – Best Cheap System
Our last pick, the OptiShot2 Golf-In-A-Box 2 is a very affordable simulator. This versatile system includes the OptiShot2 base unit, software, USB cable, adjustable rubber tees, two foam practice balls, a durable golf mat, and a net return system to capture balls and feed them back to you.
An infrared sensor precisely tracks critical swing data including club speed, carry distance, face angle, path, face contact, and tempo. It renders this feedback in real-time on 15 simulated golf courses, helping you analyze and improve your game. Both online and offline play modes are supported.
Setting up the OptiShot2 is easy – simply connect it to your Windows PC or laptop via USB. The included automatic net return measures a compact 7’6″ x 8′ x 3’6″, easily fitting into most spaces while still allowing full golf swings. Its ball return system eliminates the need to constantly collect balls, making practice more efficient.
Pros
- Accurate club data for diagnosing swing issues
- 15 course simulations for realistic practice
- Compact footprint with automatic ball return
- Online and offline play modes
- 1-year warranty on base unit and electronics
Cons
- Not compatible with MacOS
With its blend of in-depth swing analysis and authentic course simulation, the OptiShot2 is one of the best golf simulators available for home use. It makes an excellent training and entertainment system without breaking the bank. The automatic ball return feature is a particular standout, creating a seamless practice environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may be asking yourself some questions while trying to find the best simulator setup for your home. That’s why we are more than happy to provide answers to make the task a bit easier and simpler.
Buyer’s Guide: Things to Consider While Choosing a Golf Simulator For Home
Now that you have an idea of what we consider to be the best home golf simulators, please don’t rush to order a specific package, as there are a few factors you need to consider before making the final decision. These will help you further narrow your options so that nothing is left to chance.
Size
Just imagine the excitement of having your new golf simulator setup delivered to your door! You can’t wait to try the whole virtual experience, but then you encounter a huge problem: your dedicated room, shed, garage, or any other space is not wide enough, deep enough, or high enough to accommodate the full setup! That would be a bummer, to say the least.
That’s why it’s crucial to make all the necessary measurements to ensure you have enough room to install the simulator package and play comfortably.
Every golf simulator manufacturer provides a specific minimum space requirement for their products; so make sure the dedicated space meets or exceeds those requirements. Having more room can only make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Check out our full guidelines on golf simulator room size requirements in this guide.
Budget
You must have a clear idea about how much money you are willing to invest in your new simulator package, as this will help you narrow the options by omitting packages that are way over or below the budget.
You can select all the packages that fit into your budget and compare them to see which suits your preferences or specific needs.
Quality comes at a price, and usually, pricier packages are better and offer additional features over cheaper models. Still, you need to look for a package that provides the best bang for your buck!
For those looking for a more affordable option, we’ve compiled a guide to the best budget-friendly golf simulators under $300. This will give you a great starting point to find a quality simulator that fits your budget.
So, whatever your budget is, try to find one package that offers more (in terms of software features, components, quality, etc.) than the competitors.
Technology & Features
The technology used by your golf simulator is another factor to consider since it has a direct impact on the performance, accuracy, and price of the package.
Golf simulators that use Infrared technology for detection and tracking are usually the cheapest and work better for shorter distances. Still, they are a bit less accurate and usually provide fewer software features than other technologies.
Radar Doppler-based [3] golf simulators are more accurate than those using Infrared and provide a longer list of features, but they are also much more expensive options. Radar technology performs better and is more accurate outdoors because it requires more distance to provide the most accurate readings of your shots. This may be an issue for a home golf simulator, especially if installed in a small space.
Photometric technology uses high-speed cameras to track your golf ball and club and provide instant feedback on your shots. Photometric simulators provide a lot of features like video recording and playback with data overlay to help you understand your strengths and weaknesses. They are usually very accurate and work perfectly indoors, despite being relatively more expensive.
Keep in mind that launch monitors and golf simulators are two different things. Understanding how each launch monitor’s type of tracking technology works will definitely help you find a simulator that best suits your needs!
Quality
This one goes hand in hand with budget, as quality normally costs more money. Therefore, more expensive simulators are usually made with better materials and include better quality software and hardware components.
That’s why we will always encourage our readers to invest in the best quality golf simulators they can afford. These will be sturdier and more durable and serve them for a long period of time.
Ease of Setup
Virtual golf is supposed to be fun. That’s why you need to opt for a package that is easy to set up.
If installation feels like hard work, then the package most probably failed to achieve one important objective: Spend less time installing and fiddling and more time enjoying your investment.
Here’s a montage video (50 seconds) from Full Swing Golf of the installation of an indoor golf simulator that allows for a full swing:
Accuracy
Thanks to modern technology, we can confidently say that all simulator packages available today are at least minimally accurate. So, when you buy a certain product, you can expect it to be accurate in terms of simulation and tracking, at least to a certain degree.
Try to pick the most accurate package that fits your budget; The most accurate packages usually use the best technologies and materials, which translates into a higher price point.
What Size Room Do I Need for a Golf Simulator?
The minimum room size for a golf simulator is typically 10′ wide x 10′ long x 8.5′ high. This allows most modern simulators to fit while still accommodating a full golf swing. However, if you are tall, have an open swing, or are left-handed, more space is recommended to swing comfortably without issues.
The ideal dimensions for reliable simulator operation are 12′ L x 10′ W x 9′ H, with 15′ width being optimal for centering shots. Ultimately, more space is better to allow a clean setup and comfort, so maximize the simulator room size as much as your premises permit.
Where Can You Buy an Indoor Golf Simulator in 2024?
The easiest way to buy an indoor golf simulator is online, via a reputable website. While you can purchase some simulator packages through Amazon.com, there are also other websites that are solely specialized in golf simulators and their accessories and components. Just make sure you are buying from a trustworthy website with a very good reputation.
We highly recommend buying from our favorite golf simulator sellers; they are as follows (in no specific order):
– www.shopindoorgolf.com
– www.rainorshinegolf.com
– www.topshelfgolf.com
As we mentioned earlier, these are our favorite websites for buying golf simulators. We believe in specialty, and that it’s better to be excellent at a specific thing than to be good at everything! And that’s exactly what these websites do: Excel in what they are doing by focusing mainly on golf simulators and nothing else.
What Golf Simulator Has the Best Courses?
If we are talking about graphics, realism, and immersiveness, then our pick will undoubtedly go to HD Golf’s simulators. The reason is that they were so innovative by creating a unique technology that allows for the recreation of highly life-like graphics in astonishing 4K quality. We believe graphical fidelity and realism don’t get any better than what HD Golf is currently offering.
However, if we are talking about the number of virtual courses that the simulation software provides, then nothing can beat The Golf Club 2019. TGC 2019 offers more than 150,000 virtual golf courses that are playable on all supported simulator packages.
Is Mevo Plus Better Than Skytrak?
Yes, the Mevo Plus launch monitor is better than the original Skytrak, but only if you have enough room depth or usually use it outdoors. Otherwise, the Skytrak launch monitor can be considered a better pick; let’s see how!
If you only want to use the simulator (and launch monitor) indoors, and your dedicated room depth is less than 16 feet, then the Skytrak is a better option. This is because it uses photometric technology that is better suited for indoor use and requires less space to optimally track your shots.
On the other hand, if you plan to use the launch monitor outdoors, or if your room depth is 16 feet or beyond, then the Mevo+ is the option to go for. The reason is that the Mevo+ can track both ball and club metrics.
Do Pro Golfers Use Simulators?
Yes, many pro golfers do use golf simulators for practice; here are a few examples of PGA Tour golfers that opted for indoor golf simulator packages for their home practice sessions:
– Tiger Woods is a strong supporter of the FullSwing Pro Series simulator. Other top players also have the same simulator at home, including Jason Day, Gary Woodland, and Jordan Spieth.
– Fred Couples, Steve Stricker, and Bubba Watson, among other pro golfers, all use HD Golf’s excellent golf simulators.
– Kevin Na and Matt Kuchar both have GolfZon simulators at home, and David Leadbetter is the brand ambassador.
– Trackman is on top of the list, with over 350 pro golfers using their sims. Some of those players include Rory McIlroy, Sergio Garcia, Jason Day, Justin Rose, Dustin Johnson, Francesco Molinari, and Justin Thomas, among others.
– Some top golf instructors swear by the Foresight Sports GC series of launch monitors and call them a “must-have” for teaching purposes. These include Butch Harmon, Michael Breed, and Martin Hall.
Final Thoughts
In this article, we have reviewed our collection of the best golf simulators for home use. Our list contains packages from a wide range of price points to ensure everyone will find the perfect package for him/her regardless of their preferences and needs.
Of course, some of the packages tested here can be used as commercial golf simulators or in other use scenarios, but we insist that the common feature between all of them is that they can be used at home without issues.
We hope that we could help you find your favorite home golf simulator. If you still have any queries or comments, please feel free to contact us!
