While there are certainly a few more pricey golf simulators available on the market, you’ll often find that there are a number of great products to choose from for far more affordable prices.
To make matters even better, you’ll usually get to relax knowing that the technology has improved quite a bit over the years, allowing almost anybody to get a decent golf simulator setup in their own home.
Fortunately, as golf simulator technology has advanced, many mid-range solutions have appeared in the market that can accommodate medium-low budgets.
Having so many options, you may not be entirely sure where to start – but with a little guidance, we’re certain that you’ll be able to find the best golf simulator under $5000.
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Golf simulator setup buying options
Before we get onto our recommendations for the best golf simulators, let’s have a high-level look at the options you will have when making your choice.
- Option 1 – golf simulator bundle for a complete setup
If you’re looking for an easy way to get started, buying a complete package might be the best way to go. This might be a more expensive option, but those who have a higher budget and want to have the easiest experience will certainly want to look into some of the different golf simulator bundles that are available.
You’ll generally get everything you need to make the most out of your home simulator setup in a package like this, so it really is worthwhile for many individuals looking to get started.
- Option 2 – launch monitor with software then purchase the other parts individually
Launch monitors are essential to a home set up and if you already have one, it could be worth buying all the other pieces individually.
Even if you don’t already have a launch monitor, the idea of choosing each part of your setup, from the hitting mat to the golf course simulation software, might seem more enticing.
You can have a screen and a projector that will project your shots on a virtual driving range or golf course.
Upfront, this could be a great way to save money and customize your home simulator, as well as giving you an easy way to upgrade in the future if necessary.
- Option 3 – less of a golf simulator, more of a game
While not usually ideal for a professional setupor a virtual driving range, there are a number of simulators that are more so there for fun than practice. If you’re looking for a lower price and just want to play, these might be better for you.
Often, all you’ll need to do is plug it into your TV and you can get going from there, no balls or clubs required.
Best affordable golf simulators for home
Full golf simulator bundles
Please note, for the following two products, if you choose to include a laptop with your purchase then the price will be a touch over $5000, however, you can update the “Choose your tech” section to remove this.
1. SKYTRAK Practice Golf Simulator Package
If you’re looking for the best value golf simulator that features everything you need for your home golfing setup, you will be interested in the SkyTrak Practice Golf Simulator Package. From the SkyTrak Launch Monitor, to a laptop stand; they really have thought of everything to provide their customers with the best possible experience.
With a quality brand like SkyTrak, you really can’t go wrong, which is one of the main reasons why it’s generally considered to be a worthwhile choice, especially thanks to its great cost.
- Despite being generally expensive, this particular product is quite affordable considering everything that it has to offer.
- Not only is every item in this package fairly easy to take with you, but setup and use is also straightforward too.
- As with many other SkyTrak products, you can rely on your golf simulator to provide accurate data.
- Overall, it offers many opportunities to improve your game; from skill challenges, to visual feedback.
- In order to have access to more golf courses, you’ll need to pay a little extra for the yearly subscription fee.
- Some users may find that it’s not quite as easy to adjust when on grass. This may not always be an issue, particularly for those who want to play golf courses at home, but it’s worth considering.
2. MEVO+ Practice Golf Simulator Package
Another great product that offers both quality and affordability is the MEVO+ Practice Golf Simulator Package.
Real Golf Balls vs. Practice Golf Balls Another thing to consider when comparing simulators is to determine if you hit real golf balls or a practice ball.
For many beginners this is a perfect solution, being cost-effective and a generally good indoor golf simulator to start out with. It includes everything you’re going to need to get practicing from the comfort of your own home golf simulator, with little fuss.
- Whether you want an best indoor or outdoor setup, this MEVO+ golf simulator package is generally a great choice.
- Thanks to its size, it’s an incredibly convenient option for limited spaces, as well as making it easy to take with you on the go.
- As you may expect with a product from a well-known brand, this simulator offers accurate statistics to help you improve your game.
- There are a number of virtual golf courses for you to choose from, making your home golfing experience even more enjoyable.
- With the MEVO+ Launch Simulator, you’ll get a variety of different statistics that you can display on your smart devices while practicing.
- Even with quite a few stats, there are some more advanced pieces of data that these launch monitors may not record, such as club path or face angle.
- There isn’t a silver sticker or similar mark on the real golf ball, which might make it harder for the device to accurately record data at times.
The OptiShot 2 Best Golf Simulators for Home packages
For quite some time now, the OptiShot team has been considered to be providers of some of the best golf simulators on the market and has built a good reputation for themselves as being experts in the field.
Do Most Golf Simulators Come With Everything Needed To Get Started? Golf simulators come with a variety of accessories and equipment . Some golf simulators will have everything needed to get started; you can simply plug your gear in and be ready to go. However, others will need you to purchase a variety of equipment
Many golf simulator packages do not come with a projector, and you will have to consider this extra expense. Knowing all the components needed in a simulator package will help ensure that you get an excellent value for the simulator you purchase.
Here’s a closer look into some of the different golf simulators that they have to offer and the pros and cons that come with them:
3. Golf in a Box
While being a fairly cost-effective indoor golf simulator package, there’s no doubt that there’s a lot to love about the OptiShot 2 Golf in a Box.
The two options provided in my opinion are the best indoor golf simulators under 5000 you should consider. I know they are both by SkyTrak are essentially different packages of the same device.
You’ll find a number of things that make this indoor golf simulator a worthwhile purchase, providing you with pretty much everything you’ll need without having to worry too much about price.
Of course, as the first in the Golf In a Box set, this entry-level home golf simulator setup may not have it all, but it is the perfect place to get started and could easily be the best affordable golf simulator around at the moment.
- Taking a closer look into the hitting mat, you’ll see that it’s designed to not only offer a great experience, but also integrate with the simulator as smoothly as possible.
- One cool thing about OptiShot, for example, is that you don’t even need to use a real or foam ball.
- There are 15 world-famous courses to choose from with this system, which is something that any golfer, amateur, or pro can enjoy.
- As the entry level option from OptiShot, it’s also one of the most affordable packages in their range.
- If you want access to more courses, they will need to be purchased separately.
- While not as quick to put together as some of the other simulators on this list, it’s not so complex that it’s impossible to set up.
- What's Included: Enjoy indoor golf simulation with the included Optishot 2, software, USB cable, adjustable rubber tees, two foam practice golf balls, golf mat, and golf hitting net.
4. Golf in a Box 2
If you’re looking for something a little more advanced than the previous product but still want a great price, it might be worth taking a closer look into the OptiShot Golf in a Box 2 package.
While remaining affordable, you’ll find that there’s quite a lot on offer from this set, which is one of the main reasons why this is one of the best indoor golf simulators under 5000, especially for beginners.
- As you may expect, you get to enjoy all the features that the first Golf in a Box offers; from the quality hitting mat, to different playable courses.
- You’re likely to find that this golf simulator is able to record ball flight fairly accurately, which is great for those who are practicing their game.
- While it comes at a higher price than the first, it’s still a fairly cost-effective choice and well worth taking into consideration.
- Most users will find that it’s incredibly easy to use, has great graphics and sound effects, and is overall a great immersive golf simulator.
- Like the one above, you need to put a little effort into set up, as it’s not quite the simplest of golf simulators in this regard.
- It isn’t usually the best package on the market for those who are high handicappers, which while not an issue for everybody, might be a make-or-break factor for others.
- What's Included: Enjoy indoor golf simulation with the included OptiShot2, software, USB cable, adjustable rubber tees, two foam practice golf balls, golf mat, and net return.
5. Golf in a Box 3
As the medium golf simulator, it’s not hard to see why the OptiShot Golf In a Box 3 is generally one of the most popular packages of the 5. Being the medium choice in both price and features, many will find that it’s the best of both worlds without sacrificing too much on either end, making it one of the top golf simulators from OptiShot.
Of course, you’ll get to enjoy a number of the features from the previous ones, but what else is there in store for you?
- You’ll receive instant data feedback from the simulator, with or without a ball.
- It can be used inside and outdoors, which could be worth considering even with the less convenient setup.
- The overall experience when using the OptiShot simulator in Golf In a Box 3 is superb, which you just can’t overlook.
- For those who want to make sure that it’s a good purchase, the 1-year warranty on the swing pad might be worth keeping in mind.
- Again, things like a more complicated set up process and not being ideal for handicappers could be worth a second thought.
- Even with the OptiShot simulator being good quality, some will find that it’s not quite as accurate as some of the higher end options on the market.
- What's Included: Enjoy indoor golf simulation with the included OptiShot2, software, USB cable, adjustable rubber tees, two foam practice golf balls, golf mat, net return, net return simulator screen,...
6. Golf in a Box 4
For a little more cash, you could get yourself the OptiShot Golf In a Box 4 – which we’d certainly encourage you to at least take a look into if you’re hoping to find a higher-end experience than the previous options, while still saving money as a whole (especially when comparing it to other ones on the market).
- Essentially, if you want access to everything you’ll need for a fantastic golfing experience anytime, anywhere, you’re going to love this OptiShot simulator package.
- The projector that comes with the Golf In a Box 4 is excellent, providing buyers with bright imagery, shadow-free picture, energy-saving features and more.
- You’ll also get a fabric enclosure cover and an impact screen, helping you to get a better experience than you would with the previous options.
- Even if the price is higher, we still think that this is a rather affordable choice for what it offers, so be sure to keep that in mind if you’re trying to strike a balance between quality and price.You’ll receive instant data feedback from the simulator, with or without a ball.
- It can be used inside and outdoors, which could be worth considering even with the less convenient setup.
- The overall experience when using the OptiShot simulator in Golf In a Box 3 is superb, which you just can’t overlook.
- For those who want to make sure that it’s a good purchase, the 1-year warranty on the swing pad might be worth keeping in mind.
- Since this package has the same OptiShot golf simulation software, you might still find that it’s a little inaccurate at times.
- As we mentioned before, the golf simulator might not be perfect in every way, but it is still a good choice for everything it has to offer and could certainly help you improve on your golf game.
- What's Included: Enjoy indoor golf simulation with golf accessories with the included OptiShot2, software, USB Cable, adjustable rubber tees, two foam practice balls, golf mat, enclosure, and a short...
7. Golf in a Box Pro
The fifth and final of these simulator packages, the OptiShot Golf In a Box Pro is without a doubt the best of the lot. For the most part, you’ll find that there are generally good reviews of this golf simulator software package, with many buyers being satisfied with what it has to offer.
The package pairs the OptiShot 2 simulator with: The Net Return Pro Series Net and OptiShot 4’x5′ hitting mat adjustable rubber tees and foam practice balls You can play with all of your own clubs and real golf balls.
A few of the key points to consider before buying the Golf In a Box Pro from OptiShot include:
- It’s easy to use and provides overall accurate data, from swing speed to club face, which is something that any golfer can appreciate.
- The number of world-class golf courses that you can play golf at with the simulator helps to add more variety and even lets you test your skills in different environments.
- With its price being less than $5000, it’s still a highly affordable option with all features and functions considered.
- Most will find that it isn’t usually too hard to run on a laptop, which is certainly a nice bonus when compared to a few others on the market.
- As the pro version, this package is the most expensive of the options from OptiShot. While still fairly good value for what it offers, some may prefer the lower costs at the expense of less features.
- Like most simulators, you’ll probably find that this isn’t great at putting. While a general issue with these kinds of devices, it’s still worth adding to your wishlist.
- Golf Training Simulator includes Infrared Optical Swing Pad, Retractable Screen Enclosure and Wall Mount, Adjustable Rubber Tees and Two (2) Foam Practice Balls
DIY golf simulator options
If you fancy yourself to be more of a DIY kind of person, you might want to consider the options that are available for building your own home golf simulator setup.
Before we go further, you should understand that with this budget, it’s difficult to achieve a full simulator setup that includes an enclosure , screen, projector, and high-quality launch monitor .
While a complete package can often have everything you need, you can generally go ahead and purchase the items yourself individually, some of the key ones being a launch monitor (which you may even already have) and the simulation software itself. From here, you can often go ahead and create the best indoor golf simulator for your unique needs at a lower cost.
8. FlightScope Mevo+ – Portable Personal Launch Monitor and Simulator for Golf
If you’re in need of a launch monitor and the necessary simulator software, you might just find that the FlightScope MEVO+ Portable Personal Simulator can help. As an upgrade of the Mevo, you can get more out of it in terms of features, great simulation, and usability, which certainly makes it a worthwhile model if you’re looking for a good start to your DIY home setup.
- When using the Mevo+, you’ll get to enjoy the 8 different parameters that it offers, as well as its accurate data.
- It has all the main features of the Mevo launch monitor, as well as many more things to help make it an even better product.
- There are 17 practice ranges for you to choose from on the Mevo+.
- You can save and share your practice sessions if you want, allowing you to show off your home setup and skills with your friends.
- While there are an additional 5 simulated golf courses, these are only available on iOS devices, which means that they won’t be available to all users.
- There are many advantages that come with the Plus version over the standard Mevo, but it is quite a bit more expensive.
- Flightscope Edition Launch Monitor, Rangefinder and Simulator: The FlightScope Mevo+ is a launch monitor and simulator that uses patented FlightScope Fusion Tracking technology to provide golfers with...
9. SKYTRAK Launch Monitor & Simulator Software
Generally best-known for being one of the top options on the market, it’s not hard to see why the SkyTrak Launch Monitor and Simulator Software deserve a spot on the top 10 list, especially when you consider its price.
Being one of the biggest names in the business, you can generally rely on a SkyTrak product to be perfect for your needs, whether you’re playing for fun or looking to improve your game.
- From bag mapping, to the skill assessment features; there are simply so many ways that SkyTrak’s launch monitor can help you during your practice shots.
- There are several courses available on the simulator, with some of the most famous ones from around the world.
- You’ll you have access to data like ball club speed, launch angle, carry distance and more when using this particular launch monitor.
- While highly accurate on its parameters, you can also enjoy fun challenges during your practice sessions too, such as Long Drive or Target Practice.
- Most will find that it’s best to use it with a PC to get access to more simulation options.
- To get the best results, you should make sure that the device is level with the ball (which might not be as easy on a smaller hitting mat).
The golf game simulation option
While there are a few options if you are happy with a game rather than a full in-home golf simulator, this is our favorite:
10. Phigolf Mobile and Home Smart Simulator
If you’d rather have a golf simulator that’s more for fun than anything else, we’d recommend looking into a product like the Phigolf Mobile and Home Smart Simulator.
While not quite a device for professional practice, it’s definitely a simple, fun and cost-effective option for people who just want to enjoy a little game of golf without the more serious specs and requirements of more advanced systems. With this, you don’t even need a golf club or golf balls. Net Return Home Series Net The Net Return Home Series will return the golf ball to you after every shot.
How much is a full swing golf simulator? If you buy one of the first few options on the list, they are about $500 but don’t include full screens or enclosures.
With this simulator, you can enjoy Phigolf, WGT and E6 Connect all in one, each of which has their own benefits.
- With the main Phigolf app, you can enjoy 3D swing analysis, multiplayer options and more.
- Using the WGT app, you get to connect the app and get data on your golf swing in real life, which could be a good way to see how you’re doing on your shots.
- Using the E6 Connector app, you can enjoy mini-games, fun tournaments, driving ranges and a variety of other bonuses to make your home golfing experience more enjoyable.
- Thanks to its low cost, this cheap golf simulator is an option that’s available to most players, even if they have a tight budget.
- If you’re looking for a device to seriously help you with improving your game, this might not be the best option for you, since it’s not an accurate golf simulator.
- You will often have to go back to the app to go to the next hole to press continue, which might be a little inconvenient if you want to just play.
- MOBILE HOME GOLF SIMULATOR gives you the ability to practice and analyze your swing anywhere, anytime. LIVE 3D FEEDBACK on head speed, swing tempo, club path, face angle, attack angle, and estimated...
Buyer Guide & FAQs
Key points for consideration before buying a golf simulator?
Think about the space you have available
In general, different set ups will have different minimum space requirements. Whether you’re getting an impact net or a simulator screen with a projector, you need to make sure that the products you’re buying are going to be able to fit in the space you plan to have your golf simulation software set up in. You can choose an Optoma projector. You can add a projector floor mount enclosure or ceiling mount.
Factors like width, height and depth of the room should all be taken into consideration.
Setting up the simulator
Not all golf simulators are made equal, and some will often be easier to put together than others. Alongside factors like portability, it’s well worth thinking about saving yourself the time and hassle that can come with having to put together a more complicated simulator setup.
Think about your budget and the simulators/packages on offer
Of course, you’re going to want quality, but you will also need to take your budget into consideration too when buying. There are plenty of high-end models with prices you may not be able to afford, as well as some that are cheap but not quite as effective as you would like.
What is the cheapest golf simulator? Like any golf gadget, you get what you pay for with an indoor full golf simulator. Make sure you find a simulator that works for your budget but also save enough so you have plenty of money.
Check the reviews
To get a well-rounded view of what to expect, it’s often worth looking into a few reviews or comments from buyers to see what other people have to say about the product. The more positive/negative reviews, the more you can generally see what the device will offer.
What is a Launch Monitor vs golf simulator – and what is the difference?
Launch monitors are needed for a golf simulator set up, with launch monitors being the devices that measure your stats (such as ball speed, impact factor, etc.). A simulator on the other hand is essentially the whole system that simulates your shots and measures data.
Some launch monitors even have simulation software built in, making it easier for you to get everything you need in one place.
While you may hear these terms used together a lot, they’re not quite the same thing.
FAQs
Is An Affordable Golf Simulator Worth It?
While balancing cost and quality isn’t always easy, there are plenty of great simulators with competitive prices, like some of the ones mentioned earlier. This is a proper golf simulator that you can be proud of. It’s the most affordable golf simulator for your home that doesn’t slack in performance.
How Accurate Are Golf Simulators?
Often, this will depend on the product itself. If you want to get the most accurate simulator around, it’s worth looking into some of the products available and comparing your options.
Click to Check Price Most Accurate Golf Simulator Under $5000: SKYTRAK PRACTICE Golf Simulator Package Click to Check Price PROS It comes with everything needed o work a simulator Best indoor golf simulator for stat tracking Comes with a gaming laptop and net All cables are included CONS Would still need a projector and a golf simulator screen
Is it possible to putt in a golf simulator?
Yes, but usually you will find that putting in golf simulators isn’t quite as effective. While it’s possible, it’s not generally the highlight of golf simulation technology.
Will a launch monitor help my game?
With the accurate data that a quality launch monitor can provide, you’re likely to find that one of these in your home simulator set up will certainly be useful in improving many aspects of your game.
Are golf simulators realistic?
While this can depend on the devices you’re using and how they’re set up, many people will find that simulators can be exceptionally realistic and accurate golf simulators.
Do pro golfers practice on simulators?
There are many professional golfers who use simulators since it can be crucial to brush up on your skills while at home without having to go out all the time to practice.
Final Thoughts
Those who are hoping to improve their golf game or even just have a more convenient way of enjoying the sport without the need to leave the house are certain to find that a golf simulator is a perfect option.
Out of the many different ones we’ve looked into, we think that a product like the SkyTrak practice Golf Simulator package can be worthwhile, thanks to its great price, quality and the fact that it has everything you’ll need in one.
However, that’s not to say that any of the other options we’ve mentioned aren’t as good, so be sure to take your time to make the right choice.