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Best Affordable Home Golf Simulators and Packages by PlayBetter

We compare Garmin, Bushnell, SkyTrak, and FlightScope launch monitors and home golf simulators, as well as packages and golf practice nets

Less than a decade ago, owning a home golf simulator was a $20,000+ pipe dream for most of us. But with the popularity of indoor golf skyrocketing, along with advancements in golf technology, top brands have made it so that any golfer can turn that dream into a home golf setup for well under $5,000.

So what's involved in a home golf simulator studio for your home? At PlayBetter, we're here to help you understand your options. You can custom build your studio or opt for one of our PlayBetter golf simulator packages. Things to take into consideration: the space you want to devote to your home golf setup; the launch monitor/simulator that best meets your needs; what simulation software will work for you and your platform (iOS or PC); whether you want to use a net with a big screen or PC or have your own personal swing bay complete with impact screen; and, of course, what options fit your budget.  

Read on to find out how you can start enjoying an indoor golf simulator from the comfort of your own home!

Get the Pros and Cons of each of all of our golf launch monitors and simulators in this comparison article on the PlayBetter Blog!

Short on time? Jump to a specific simulator in the Table of Contents or check out our Simulator Comparison Table below!


Best Affordable Golf Simulators for Home | Table of Contents


Our Picks for the Best Golf Launch Monitor and Simulator

Best Golf Simulator for (Way) Under $1000 — The Garmin Approach R10

It's no secret ... at PlayBetter, we love the Garmin Approach R10 for many reasons, most notably for its unprecedented price tag of only $600! Unheard of for a portable golf launch monitor and simulator! The golf launch monitor side of it gives you a ridiculous amount of performance data parameters—including club path metrics only previously available in much more expensive models that are not realistically affordable for most golfers.

But this is a simulator article. If you would like to check out the launch monitor side of this amazingly pocketable golf gadget about the size of a deck of cards, jump over to our Approach R10 features article, our Approach R10 FAQ page, or look over our numerous R10 comparison articles on the PlayBetter Blog!

Now, let's get down to the simulator side of things with this personal golf simulator!

Approach R10 Simulator Features

  • The Virtual Driving Range tracks detailed stats on every shot for your review and analysis. You can even record videos of you swings for playback.
  • Easily change between a birds-eye view and a player's point of view.
  • Includes game modes with rich visual graphics and multiplayer games and challenges.
  • The Garmin Approach R10 setup is done in 3 simple steps!
  • Setting up and connecting to the Garmin Golf app is super easy (all simulation and R10 operation is done through the free app).
  • Compatible simulation software includes the Garmin Golf app with Home Tee Hero and TruGolf E6 Connect.
  • Comes with a 30-day free trial of Home Tee Hero, Garmin's native in-app premium simulation software, and 5 free golf course for TruGolf E6 Connect (iOS only).
  • Play Garmin's native simulation software, Home Tee Hero, through the Garmin Golf app ($9.99 a month or $99 a year). Play a round on one of the world's greatest golf courses—or one right down the street! You can choose from more than 42,000 courses in all and invite friends to play along! Select tees and wind conditions, as well.
  • This unit does not do any sort of putting. In the simulator, once you hit the green, depending on which ring you land in, that determines the number of putts you'll be given—generally 1-2 putts.
  • You can see the metrics of each shot in Home Tee Hero.
  • Use the R10 simulator through your mobile device, cast it onto a smart TV, or project it onto an impact screen through a connection between your mobile device or computer and projector.
  • E6 Connect is only available for the Approach R10 through the free Garmin Golf app. With E6 Connect, you can easily play their photorealistic courses whenever you want.
  • Currently, E6 Connect for the Approach R10 is available through an iOS mobile device (no Android) or PC (no Mac computers). To learn more about subscription options and how to connect to you mobile device, jump over to our Easy Guide to E6 Connect and the Garmin Approach R10.
  • This Garmin golf launch monitor and simulator gives you an impressive 10 hours of battery life.

Approach R10 Home Setup Requirements

You'll need to place the unit 6-8' behind you and allow for 8'+ of space in front for ball flight measurements for a total minimum of 14' in an indoor space.

Get Started on Your R10 Home Setup

Find full descriptions of our PlayBetter complete SIG simulator studio packages in the section below or go directly to our Garmin R10 packages page.

Just want the best golf practice net to use with your mobile device, flatscreen, PC, or impact screen? Jump to the Net Return section below for all the details!


Watch our partner Gabe at Let's Play Thru demo How Home Tee Hero works out on the golf range!


Best Golf Simulator for Under $2000 — The FlightScope Mevo+

The unique FlightScope Mevo+ portable golf launch monitor, designed for serious golfers, adds simulation to the mix and doubles the data parameters of the Mevo. Conveniently portable (6.8" x 1.2" x 4.6"), this home launch monitor and simulator comes in at just under $1,999.00. Not only do you get 16 top-of-the-line, proven data parameters on the launch monitor side, but the Mevo+ offers simulation and gamification features to give you a robust home golf simulator experience.

This is straight-up simulation article, so to learn more about the FS Mevo+ personal launch monitor side, jump to our Mevo comparison article or check out this golf launch monitor FAQ! Otherwise, let's find out what this tiny titan can do for your indoor golf simulator setup!

Benefits of a Mevo+ Home Golf Simulator

  • The Mevo+ is compatible with multiple simulator software options, including TruGolf E6 Connect for (iOS package for mobile devices or PC packages), the Golf Club (PC only), Creative Golf 3D (PC only), and Awesome Golf for iOS and PC (be sure to check specs for PC!).
  • It comes with ownership of 5 golf courses—Aviara, Stone Canyon, Wade Hampton, Sanctuary, Belfry (iOS only).
  • No subscription fees—Myflightscope.com is FlightScope's online cloud that allows users to view, store, and review each practice session. You will be able to store three videos per month free of charge. If you wish to store more videos each month, you can purchase more storage. All FlightScope Mevo+ data parameters will always be available free of charge.
  • It comes with 17 practice ranges.
  • Mevo+ is super easy to set up.
  • It has a Wi-Fi hotspot to ensure a reliable connection.
  • It works with your phone with the free FS Mevo Golf app.
  • The Mevo+ unit has a built-in camera for alignment, but can also be used for screen recording! It works with the FS app where you can choose to use the radar as a camera. You can also record shots using your phone—from any position— and get overlaid data.
  • Easily share your videos online!
  • QR code on the back of the Mevo+ unit allows for easy connecting to simulation apps!
  • Mevo+ is compatible with the FS Skills and FS Golf app available on iOS and Android.
  • A smooth surface is highly recommended for simulation putting—and yes, the Mevo+ has putting!
  • For golfers with higher balls speeds, a longer space from ball to net/screen is recommended (11'-12').
  • Can work brilliantly with unique spaces and setups; may require experimenting with distances of the unit to the tee, after trying recommendations.
  • Metallic dot should be used to get accurate ball spin on full, indoor swings. No dots for putting!
  • Rechargeable battery provides up to 3 hours continuous use.

Mevo+ Home Setup Requirements

  • Outdoor:  Requires 7'-9' from sensor to tee and unrestricted ball flight distance. If you are hitting into a net outdoors, you will need at least 8 feet of ball flight.
  • Indoor: Requires a space of at least 16'–8' from sensor to tee and 8' minimum distance to net. (7' recommended for putting).
  • Simulator Setup:  Requires 7' from sensor to tee and 8' minimum distance to net/screen.

Get Started on Your Mevo+ Home Setup

Find full descriptions of our PlayBetter complete SIG simulator studio packages in the section below. Or go to our FlightScope Mevo+ golf simulator packages page.

Just want the best golf practice net to use with your mobile device, flatscreen, PC, or golf impact screen? Jump to the Net Return section below for all the details!


Watch this video of Gabe at Let's Play Thru turning his backyard into a golf course with the Mevo+ and E6 Connect!


Best Overall Golf Indoor Simulator — The SkyTrak Home System

The SkyTrak golf launch monitor and home simulator is the first affordable practice, play, and entertainment simulator that provides realistic results that compare accurately to your actual shot-making ability. This ultimate at-home golf system connects easily and quickly to compatible iPads, Androids, and PC's via its built-in Wi-Fi hotspot!

 

Once again, this article is all about the sim! If you want details about the SkyTrak launch monitor's amazing numbers and features, bounce over to our PlayBetter SkyTrak golf launch monitor and simulator FAQ or our best golf launch monitors FAQ!

Here's how you can turn after work, the winter season, or a random sick day into your own golfer's paradise!

Benefits of a SkyTrak Golf Simulator System at Home

  • The SkyTrak integrates with several simulator plans for iOS and PC, including: TrueGolf E6 Connect and WGT Golf for iOS and The Golf Club 2019, TrueGolf E6 Connect, Creative Golf, Fitness Golf, and ProTee Play for PC.
  • Top 3 simulation software for SkyTrak are WGT (iPad only)—$199/year; E6 Connect (iPad and PC)—$300/year, $600/year or $2500 one-time payment; and TGC 2019 (PC)—$479/year or $879 one-time payment.
  • Shot-Tracer provides views from two camera angles for enhanced feedback and better information than you would get at the course.
  • Multi-Color Shot Tracers separate different clubs by unique shot-tracer color, allowing you to easily see shot dispersions with different clubs.
  • The SkyTrak is known to have proven, excellent accuracy.
  • Get fun challenges like Closest to the Pin, Long Drive, and Target Practice.
  • The SkyTrak measures putting!
  • Customize you SkyTrak experience by inputting a series of desired variables and environmental factors such as weather and course conditions.
  • Driving Range lets you hit and view live shots—at home!
  • SkyTrak provides up to 5 hours of rechargeable battery life.
  • SkyTrak has been around a while now and has been through several firmware updates that make it a rock-solid launch monitor and simulator!

SkyTrak Launch Monitor Home Setup Requirements

  • Indoor/Outdoor: Technically, as long as you have enough room to safely swing a golf club, you have enough room to use your SkyTrak system. This is an advantage over some other professional devices that require more space.

    An open space that is about 10' x 10' and 9 feet high is recommended.

Get Started on Your SkyTrak Home Setup

Find full descriptions of our PlayBetter complete SIG simulator studio packages in the section below. Or go directly to our SkyTrak golf home simulator packages page.

Just want the best golf practice net to use with your mobile device, flatscreen, PC, or projector? Jump to the Net Return section below for all the details!


PlayBetter Golf Simulator Packages

For the golfer who wants aspires to an indoor golf setup in their basement, garage, or spare room, PlayBetter has complete packages you can purchase along with your Approach R10, FlightScope Mevo+, or SkyTrack home golf launch monitor and simulators! We've bundled the best equipment and made it easy for you to create your very own golfing paradise to step into any time after work, during the winter months, or just on a random sick day!

Each of our home golf simulator packages comes with: golf simulator enclosure, side barrier netting, landing pad turf, choice of golf hitting mat (Fairway Series 5' x 5', SIGPRO 4' x 7' or SIGPRO 4' x 10'—Fairway Series 5' x 5', SIGPRO 4' x 7' only for the SIG8 package), Panasonic PT-VZ580U Golf Simulator Projector, Ceiling Mount, 15' HDMI Cable, Tight Knit Thick Polyester Impact Screen, and HDMI to Lightning Cable.

Panasonic PT-VZ580U Golf Simulator Projector Details:

WUXGA standard throw (1.09-1.77 throw ratio) projector and all cables are included. The Panasonic PT-VZ580U Projector is a premium option for golf simulators with four corner corrections and 5,000+ Lumens for maximum brightness.

Landing Pad Turf Details:

The landing pad is made specifically for the golf simulator package size you choose. It fills in the area between the screen and the hitting mat making it aesthetically pleasing and protects your floor from golf ball strikes.

Ceiling Mount Details:

The ceiling mount is a permanent option that ensures your projector is out of the way and safe from any stray golf shots.

PlayBetter SIG8 Golf Simulator Studio Complete Package

The SIG8 enclosure was designed to fit within most compact spaces less than 9'W, unlike other systems that require more width or depth.

The SIG8 screen and enclosure pair beautifully with any launch monitor. Built tough, the SIG8 screen can withstand the hardest of golf shots time after time. Unlike other screens, the SIG8 is designed so that it can fit within most compact spaces less than 9'W.

PlayBetter SIG10 Golf Simulator Studio Complete Package

The SIG10 enclosure was designed to allow the image to fill in 100% of the screen, unlike other screen systems where there is white space at the top and bottom.

The SIG10 screen and enclosure pair beautifully with any launch monitor. Built tough, the SIG10 screen can withstand the hardest of golf shots time after time. Unlike other screens, the SIG10 is designed so that the image fills up 100% of the screen in HD for ultimate viewing pleasure.

PlayBetter SIG12 Golf Simulator Studio Complete Package

The 12-foot wide SIG12 enclosure was designed to allow the image to fill in 100% of the screen, unlike other screen systems where there is white space at the top and bottom.

The complete SIG12 Studio package is built around our SIG12 enclosure and includes everything you would need for a complete setup minus the launch monitor and/or golf simulator—allowing you to plug and play the technology of your choosing.


Best Golf Hitting Net—Net Return Packages

Want to hit golf balls at full speed into a net that will stand the test of time? Then you definitely want a Net Return golf hitting net for your indoor/outdoor home golf simulator setup!

You can put this net wherever you have the space, and know that you're getting the safest, most efficient, most durable golf practice net on the market. The Net Return will be a great pair with your SkyTrak, Mevo+, or Approach R10 portable golf simulators if you will be using it in more than one spot at your home, already have an impact screen, or might want to use it sometimes with your mobile device or PC and, other times, with a flatscreen or impact screen.

Whatever your setup needs, we recommend that anyone in need of a golf hitting net invests in a Net Return, and here's why:

  • It's the only net in the world that automatically returns the ball!
  • Comes with a 250,000 (Pro Series V2) and 200,000 (Home Series V2) shot guarantee!
  • It can take any shot, indoors or out!
  • Withstands golf ball speeds of up to 225 mph (Pro Series V2)!
  • Practice every day in the comfort of your own home, using any club!
  • One Person Assembly in Under 5 Minutes (No Tools Required!)
  • Lightweight, Rugged, 1.5" Powder Coated Black Tubular Aluminum Frame
  • Commercial Grade, UV Treated Black, Polyester Netting
  • Large, Stainless Steel Push Buttons
  • Easily stored or transported in the provided rugged, duffle bag.
  • Can help provide instant shot feedback on hook, straight, and sliced, depending on how the ball comes back ...
  • Handmade and tested in the U.S.
  • One Net for Multi-Sport Use - Golf, Soccer, Baseball, Softball, Lacrosse

PlayBetter Golf Launch Monitor and Simulator Comparison Chart

Garmin Approach R10 SkyTrak FlightScope Mevo+

Price

Sold out
Sold out
Sold out

Release

2021

2015

2020

Metrics

  • Ball speed
  • Launch angle
  • Launch direction
  • Club head speed
  • Club path
  • Back swing and down
    swing times
  • Angle of attack
  • Club face angle
  • Spin rate
  • Spin axis
  • Observed ball flight
    range
  • Carry distance
  • Total distance
  • Smash factor
  • Swing tempo
  • Apex height
  • Shot dispersion chart
  • Impact location on
    club
  • Ball speed
  • Launch angle
  • Club head speed
  • Launch direction
  • Spin rate
  • Spin axis
  • Carry distance
  • Total distance
  • Smash factor
  • Impact location on club
  • Shot dispersion chart
  • Putting
  • Carry Distance
  • Club Head Speed
  • Smash Factor
  • Apex Height
  • Flight Time
  • Ball Speed
  • Vertical Launch Angle
  • Horizontal Launch Angle
  • Lateral Landing
  • Angle of Attack
  • Total Distance
  • Roll Distance
  • Spin Axis
  • Spin Rate
  • Spin Loft
  • Shot Shape
  •  

Battery
Life

10 hours
(rechargeable)

5 hours
(rechargeable)

2 hours
1.5 hours simulator
(rechargeable)

Water
Rating

IPX7

None

?

Game
Modes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Compatible
Golf
Simulators

Yes: Garmin Golf
App and E6

Yes: WGT, The Golf
Club, E6, Creative
Golf 3D,
Fitness Golf

Yes: TruGolf
E6 Connect, the
Golf Club, Awesome
Golf and
Creative Golf 3D

Track Club
Stats

Yes

Yes

Yes

Comp-
anion
App

Yes

Yes

Yes

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