Golf Simulator: 8 Best Options For Your Home In 2023

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A golf simulator is a big investment in your golf game. However, it can really increase the amount you play and improve your understanding of your golf game at the same time. 

Of course, a golf simulator is something that requires a bit of research to ensure that you get the right one. However, we have put together some of the best options for 2023. 

Each of these golf simulator options has some type of technology that will set it apart from another. Whether you have a tight space to put your simulator, are tight on budget, or want all the bells and whistles, we have you covered. 

Let’s take a look at the 8 best golf simulators in 2023; I was quite impressed with the technology and the advancements these units have made in the last few years. 

Best Golf Simulators 2023

Don’t be surprised to see names like SkyTrak, Flightscope, and Mevo repeated throughout this process. These are some of the best launch monitors in the game and are often incorporated into the golf simulator packages. 

A golf simulator is a combination of several pieces of equipment; although you can build out your own packages, purchasing everything already put together can save time, money, and frustration.

 

SkyTrak SwingBay Golf Simulator (Best Overall) 

What You Get

• SkyTrak Launch Monitor
• SkyTrak App and SOftware
• SwingBay Enclosure and Netting
• Choice of Golf Mat Size
• Landing Pad Turf
• Optoma 1080p HD Short Throw Projector 
• 25′ 1080p HDMI Cable
• Ball Tray Tees

The SkyTrak Swingbay golf simulator is our favorite golf simulator in 2023. When you look at package pricing for simulators, you will see options ranging from around $3000 to more than $30,000. 

With the SkyTrak Swingbay, you get some really great technology for a fair price and a simulator that has very high levels of accuracy. 

This package includes everything you need to start playing golf from the comfort of your home. There is even an option to include the gaming laptop if you don’t want to do any of the searching or product sourcing for your simulator. 

SkyTrak is, without a doubt, one of the top golf launch monitors in the game. Years ago, the technology and accuracy from the SkyTrak would have cost you tens of thousands of dollars. 

Over time the pricing has lowered considerably, making SkyTrak one of the best values on the market. 

Everything you need is included! Items marked with (optional) can be customized and/or removed. 

Some of the things that help this particular package stand out as the best overall are the black-out walks and the simple to setup framing system. The black out walls give a more realistic golf course feel, making it easier to bring your practice from the simulator to the course. 

In addition, the SwingBay screen is known for its durability and quality. This screen will withstand shots up to 250 mph; even if you are a fast swinger, this swing can handle you!

The wide dimensions of the swing also allow for a full image to fill the screen with the included projector. I’ve seen some poor simulator setups where screens and projectors were not correctly matched; this is not one of them. 

Who Is It For 

If you have had a smaller scale or cheap simulator and are ready for the real deal, this is the perfect next step. For golfers that care about accuracy, quality, and a truly immersive experience, the SkyTrak Swingbay package is well worth the money. 

Pros 

• Very easy to setup and use
• Can withstand swing speed up to 250 mph 
• Wide screen 
• Blackout netting
• SkyTrak app is great at game tracking and more 
• SkyTrak has a durable outer case to prevent damage 

Cons

• Slight delay in processing from shot to image on the screen

💡 Read our full Skytrak launch monitor review here.

Flightscope Mevo Swingbay Package (Best Runner Up) 

What You Get 

• Flightscope Mevo+
• Flightscope App
• SwingBay Enclosure and Side Netting
• Simulator Software (E6 Connect or TGC 2019)
• Choice of Golf Mat Size
• Landing Pad Turf 
• Optoma Short Throw Projector
• 25′ HDMI Cable 
• Ball Tray 

The Flightscope Mevo+ and the SkyTrak are very often compared to each other because of their similar performance. 

The Mevo+ has 16 data parameters that it collects and then uses to give you data about your golf game. Looking at these parameters, you should be able to get very accurate results from your simulator. 

We love the choice of two different software with this package; you can choose the E6 Connect, which is typically the most popular, or the TGC 2019. Either option has plenty to keep you busy while using your new golf simulator. 

One thing we enjoy with the Mevo+ setup is that it will come with an iPad to make this process considerably easier. In addition, if you want to take the Mevo+ out of the simulator setup and use it outside, it’s effortless to do. 

This is a very portable and user-friendly golf simulator setup. 

The SwingBay is the same enclosure features in our top choice with the SkyTrak. This high-quality unit holds up for both high and low swing speed players. In addition, the landing pad turf makes this feel more and more like you are on a real golf course. 

Although the SkyTrak took our top spot, the Flightscope Mevo is really a very close second. Just as many golfers that like SkyTrak have plenty of positive things to say about the Mevo+. 

Who Is It For

Golfers that want to play winter rounds of golf, practice at the end of a work day, and enjoy having a golf course in their own home will love the Flightscope Mevo Swingbay package. In addition, this is a good option when you are also looking for a portable launch monitor. 

Pros

• Flightscope Mevo+ has very high accuracy ratings
• Can add the Mevo+ Pro Package for more club path data
• Choice of different simulator software
• Easy to use and setup 
• Portable and accurate

Cons

• Pro Package for club path data adds quite a bit of money 
• Flightscope Mevo+ requires more space than SkyTrak 

SkyTrak Bronze Golf Simulator Package (Best Value) 

What You Get

• SkyTrak Launch Monitor
• Sky Trak Software and App
• Net Return Home or Pro Series
• Side Barriers and Screen 
• 1080 HD Short Throw Golf Simulator Package
• SIG 6’x10′ Pro Turf Mat
• 15′ HDMI Cable
• Two rubber tees 

When we talk about golf simulators being affordable, you must understand that this is in comparison to what they used to cost. We are fully aware that a golf simulator investment is a big one. However, when you consider your cost per round currently and bring that to your own home, the cost may seem a bit more justified. 

One of the biggest decisions golfers have to make is if they will use their simulator enough to justify the cost. 

With the SkyTrak Bronze Golf Simulator Package, that decision may be a little bit easier. This product has fantastic accuracy, excellent data parameters, and a long list of compatible devices. 

When you look at the SkyTrak Bronze Golf Simulator Package, you can see that it is not set up quite like others, and it is a bit more small scale, but the functionality of the SkyTrak launch monitor is still exactly the same. 

Although we would recommend setting this unit up and leaving it, the SkyTrak launch monitor will work both indoors and out. Inside it requires much less space than other launch monitors because of it its unique data collection methods. 

Who Is It For 

For players that are new to the game or are busy but still want the ability to play on a rainy day without breaking the bank, the SkyTrak Bronze is a perfect choice. 

Pros

• Can worth with Android, iOS, and PC 
• Well-recognized performance across the industry
• Accurate backspin and carry distance readings 
• Very easy to use 
• Quick setup
• Affordable pricing 

Cons

• Will miss some of the impressive dark enclosures that other options have
• Side netting is more limited 
• Smaller overall screen size 

SkyTrak Flex Space Package (Best for Flex Space )

What You Get

• SkyTrak Launch Monitor
• SkyTrak Software
• Retractable Screen from Home Course Pro 
• Pro Turf Mat 
• 1080 HD ST Golf Simulator 
• 15′ HDMI Cable 
• Accessory kit for hanging projector
• Charging cables

Although it would be great to have an extra space in your home where the simulator is ready to be placed, most people have to be a bit more creative than that. Golf simulators do not need a ton of space, but they certainly have to have enough ceiling clearance to allow you to confidently swing a golf club. 

The SkyTrak Flex Space Package is our favorite option for those golfers that only get a room part of the time.

If your golf simulator space has to double as your garage or your kid’s playroom, this is the option you need. With SkyTrak, you won’t need nearly as much room to get the simulator setup. 

In addition, the retractable screen from Home Course Pro makes it incredibly easy to set up your screen and take it down when it is no longer needed. 

Another great feature of the SkyTrak Flex Space package is that you get the Play and Improve PLan with WGT Golf, and that is almost a $200 value. There is nothing about this simulator package that will leave you looking for more. 

Instead, you will have everything you need to set up a quick round of golf in your garage, office, or living room and be able to put it away at the end of the match. 

Who Is It For

Golfers that are limited in space and want an affordable but high quality model that they can take up and down when necessary. If you thought you didn’t have the space for a golf simulator, you might want to think again. 

Pros

• Very easy to move the setup
• Comes with a projector shield floor mount enclosure
• All cables included getting started
• SkyTrak Play and Improve Plan included 
• SkyTrak launch monitors don’t need quite as much space indoors 

Cons

• Takes a little bit of time to get the routine of setup and breakdown together 
• Side netting is not nearly as substantial as other options
• Not a great choice for the highly inaccurate golfer 

Uneekor QED Swingbay (Best For Serious Golfer/Game Improvement) 

What You Get 

• Uneekor QED Launch Monitor 
• Uneekor VIEW Software
• Swingbay Enclosure and Side Netting 
• Choice of golf mat size
• Landing pad turf
• 1080p HD Short Throw Projector
• SwingShield Projector Enclosure
• 25′ 1080p HDMI Cables 

The Uneekor brand is starting to grow in popularity, and I recently had the chance to use one of these models, bringing this option up on our list a little higher after my experience. 

With impressive technology and accuracy and the two ultra high speed cameras, you will be pleasantly surprised with the accuracy and functionality of this model. Golfers find that the video also helps to keep a record of how their game is progressing. 

The QED Ceiling mount technology is different than other golf simulators, and you will have to make sure that you have the space in your home to set this up. However, the great thing is the ceiling-mounted cameras make it less distracting at impact when you are hitting. 

With the Uneekor software, expect great practice ranges and well as skills challenges to choose from. 

Some of the data testing in this model that allows you to compare how you are hitting certain clubs or golf balls can really help ensure better overall performance. 

Another critical thing to consider here is for golfers that are left handed. Many launch monitors require an entirely different simulator setup and connection when a left handed golfer comes out to play. 

However, with the Uneekor, you won’t have to take any chances as the cameras will be hanging from the home’s ceiling. 

Who Is It For

Although we mean this in the best way possible, the Uneekor QED is a great option for the golf geek. There is so much data here to play with and some really incredible options to work on and analyze your game. 

Although it’s not a cheap golf simulator, it will keep you entertained for years to come and even allow you to play a round of golf against your left-handed friends. 

Pros

• Impressive swing video analysis tools 
• Several different practices and play modes 
• Quick and accurate results
• Ceiling mount cameras are good for left and right handed 

Cons

• The initial setup is a bit more involved 
• Brand name not as well recognized yet 

Mevo+ Retractable Golf Simulator Package (Best Portable)

What You Get 

• Mevo+ Launch Monitor and Carry Case 
• FlightScope App 
• E6 Connect or TGC 2019 Software 
• HomeCourse Retractable Screen 
• Choice of Hitting Mat
• Landing Pad Turf 
• Optoma Short Throw Projector 
• 25′ HDMI Cable 
• Ball Tray 

Although we already gave you an option for a flexible space, the Mevo+ Home Course Retractable Golf Simulator Package is our favorite choice for a portable golf simulator. With this package, you will be able to bring your simulator out on the patio when friends or over or practice in your basement when the kids aren’t taking it over! 

The great thing about Mevo+ and why we find it to be a more portable option is the fact that you can use the launch monitor both indoors and outdoors. 

The accuracy ratings for Mevo+ are just as good indoors as outdoors, which is an important fact to keep in mind. 

As long as you have 9 feet of height and 17 feet of length, this retractable setup is easy to use and comes with everything you need to get started. Mevo+ packages also give you the option of an iPad or a laptop. 

Mevo+ continues to offer some of the best accuracy on the market, even though it is one of the more affordable units that you will find. 

Who Is It For

If you like to bring your golf simulator out on your patio or want to play at a friend’s house, the Mevo+ Retractable is a perfect option. Expect great results and impressive overall response times; this is a fun unit to own and play with. 

Pros

• Can be used indoors and outdoors
• Great retractable screen 
• The short throw projector is fast and visually pleasing
• Comes with cables necessary to get it setup 

Cons

• Mevo+ requires a good amount of length to set up
• Will need the Mevo+ Pro package to get the club head data 

Flightscope X3 Swingbay Golf Simulator Package (Best Premium) 

What You Get 

• Flightscope X3 Launch Monitor 
• TGC 2019 Golf Simulator Software
• SwingBay Screen Enclosure and Side Netting
• Choice of Hitting Mat
• Landing Pad Turf
• Optoma EH460ST Short Throw projector
• Projector Floor Enclosure 
• Golf Simulator gaming laptop
• 25′ HDMI Cable 
• Ball Tray 
• Laptop Stand 

The FlightScope X3 launch monitor is one of the most well-known on the market when it comes to accuracy. This simulator is plenty good enough to use in a commercial setting and will give you some of the most comprehensive data of any of the simulators on our list. 

Some tour professionals like Bryson and Bubba will even use this in their own homes to get up-to-date data on their golf swings and ability. Golfers that will use the Flightscope X3 launch monitor must pay close attention to the pricing and ensure this is something they will use often enough. 

Essentially, this is one of those you get what you pay for situations. 

With this particular model, you will even get a higher end projector. The projector is needed to make sure that the high end simulation software, combined with the launch monitor data, gives you the most accurate picture of what you are doing in your game. 

This particular model will need 9′ of height and 16 feet of length in order to work correctly. In addition, we highly recommend going with this gaming laptop included as the graphics and speed will be considerably better. 

Who Is It For

Golfers that are very serious about their game and looking to maybe even take it to the professional level. This is also a good model for those looking to start a club fitting business. 

Pros

• Very accurate results
• Trusted by professionals
• High end projector
• Impressive graphics 
• Premium data parameters and swing information 

Cons

• Priced higher than other options on the market 

OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator For Home (Best For Beginner or Junior) 

What You Get

• OptiShot 2 Software and Launch Monitor 
• USB Cable
• Adjustable Rubber Tees
• Foam Practice Golf Balls
• Golf Mat
• Net Return
• Net Return Simulator Screen 
• Short Throw HD Projector 

The OptiShot 2 Golf In A Box is by far the most affordable option on our list. If you are new to the game or have a junior golfer in your house that needs to work on their golf game throughout the winter season, the OptiShot 2 Golf In a Box is a good solution. 

Of course, when you see a simulator at this price and you compare it to one that is $20,000+, you can expect that the technology in this model will be a little more limited. The OptiShot 2 allows golfers to play 15 real-world golf courses, and it has very quick feedback. 

In addition, the OptiShot 2 is highly compatible with many devices and comes with a one-year warranty. The setup for this particular model is one o the easiest on the list, simply take it out of the box and plug it in. 

Just several years ago, the OptiShot brand made some of these golf in the box that were high quality but certainly not as impressive as the newer models. Those original units had quite a few outliers, but the new models are more accurate. 

Who Is It For

This is, without a doubt, a budget golf simulator. If you just want to work on your game a bit on a rainy day or need something fun to do on a Saturday night, the OptiShot is an excellent choice. However, don’t expect the same accuracy that you see with other simulators on this list. 

Pros 

• Helps you save money 
• Accurate results considering the price 
• Good option if you can’t afford a premium model 
• Configure wind and rain 
• Once you have it set up you should need very little configuration 

Cons

• Let the OptiShot go through the calibration process, or it may not find your club 
• Consider spending just a bit more to get something with slightly more data parameters

What To Look For When Buying A Golf Simulator 

The process of buying a golf simulator feels kind of cumbersome. 

This is because there are so many different parts and accessories needed in order to get the perfect simulator. Not only is a great launch monitor necessary, but also a net, a mat, and software. 

Here are the things to keep in mind when purchasing a golf simulator. 

Launch Monitor

The launch monitor is probably the most crucial part of the golf simulator. Without an accurate launch monitor, your entire simulator experience will be impacted. 

We highly recommend that the majority of the money you spend on a simulator package goes towards the launch monitor. Look for a launch monitor that has a large number of data parameters. 

In addition, you will need to look at whether the launch monitor has ball and club data or just ball data. The most accurate units are those with ball and club data, but they are also the most expensive. 

Net and Screen

The net and screen are what you will hit your golf shots into. Choose a net with side barriers if possible. In addition, the screen has to be the proper size to work with your projector. 

Most of the good golf simulator screens will be high impact, so you can hit a number of shots into them and still be able to see the picture clearly. Some screens have a replaceable top layer, but these are typically a bit more expensive. 

Software (Extra Charges)

The software that comes with your golf simulator is what allows you to play golf courses. Sometimes the software is basic and has a few golf courses. Others will have yearly subscriptions that allow you to play hundreds of golf courses. 

Remember that sometimes software is an additional charge, and that can increase the total out-of-pocket costs for your simulator. 

Compatibility

Most of the best golf simulators have compatibility between Apple, Windows, and Android devices. However, you must ensure compatibility before you purchase something, or you could end up having to get another computer or iPad just to work with your simulator. 

Pricing

Golf simulators range in price from around $3000 to more than $30,000. Many homeowners find that they can get a really accurate and higher quality simulator in the $8000-$15000 range. 

Although this may be a lot of money, think about going in on one with your typical Saturday foursome. When it rains, or the temperature is too cold, you will all have a place to play. 

Check out the best golf simulators under $5000.

Space 

Prior to doing any kind of research for a golf simulator, you must ensure that you have the necessary space. Sometimes a simulator requires a large amount of room behind the ball to place the launch monitor. Others can work in condensed spaces. 

No matter what, you are going to need 9 feet of ceiling clearance for the height of the net and screen and to ensure that you are able to swing the club without restrictions. 

If you have a space that will work some of the time but not all of the time, using a retractable screen can be a great solution to consider. 

Left Handed/Right Handed

Some simulators that hang overhead or use video data collection have no issues with switching between left handed and right handed golfers. However, the players that are left handed need to be sure of this prior to purchasing. 

Sometimes like, the SkyTrak needs to be moved before a left handed golfer can swing, and this can take a bit of calibration and slow down the playing process. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Buying a simulator is a big deal; asking questions prior to purchasing can only help ensure you get something that is good for your needs as a player. 

Final Thoughts

We hope you now feel a bit more confident in your ability to choose a great golf simulator package. There are so many strong options on the market we even had a hard time picking one. 

The best tip of advice we can give is to ensure you look at all the equipment included in the package. It’s terrible to get the simulator in the main and realize you need cable or a laptop to get it to work. 

The SkyTrak and the Flightscope Mevo+ packages are our hands down favorites. The fact that you can have this type of a golf experience from the comfort of your own home is quite impressive.