Owning a home golf simulator is something most avid golfers have thought about at one time or another. With today’s technology, simulators have proven to be a reliable year-round training aid for golfers at all skill levels. A virtual golf simulator can also provide great entertainment for those just seeking new ways to have fun with friends. Before making your decision, there are several factors to consider: budget, space requirements, and desired features usually top the list. Keep in mind any home golf simulator is just a collection of various components (launch monitors, projectors, nets/enclosures, turf and software) paired to create complete systems that satisfy a golfer’s specific needs. Anyone can research and assemble individual components from various providers to build a home simulator on your own. But why go it alone when there are so many great companies out there offering entirely compatible systems from which to choose?
If you’re thinking about purchasing an indoor golf simulator, GolferScore has compiled a list of home golf simulators to help you decide which one is right for you. We’ve taken the guesswork out of the equation. Our findings will include the most comprehensive offerings and best “bang for your buck” for a given price point. We have arranged our list in ascending order relative to price. We have gathered some great solutions to meet any budget for golfers pursuing a simulator of their own. In our research, we discovered that two quality brands (OptiShot & SkyTrak) continuously ranked in the top options under $10,000. We also found several brands (Foresight Sports, TruGolf & TrackMan Golf) offering high quality simulator packages as price points climb above $10,000. Don’t miss out on number eleven if you’re a big hitter with a bottomless bank account!
1. OptiShot Golf in a Box ($799)
First off the tee and winning on an entry-level budget is Golf In A Box from OptiShot.
Components Included:
- OptiShot2 Infrared Optical Swing Pad
- OptiShot2 Software (Download)
- 15 Courses (including Royal Lytham & St. Annes, Bethpage Black and Torrey Pines)
- Driving Range
- USB Cable (10 ft.)
- Adjustable Rubber Tees
- Two (2) Foam Practice Balls
- Instructions
- 1 Year Warranty
- Software Updates
- OptiShot Hitting Mat
- OptiShot Full Portable Hitting Net
Space Required: 7' 5" H x 7' 5" W x 1' D (net dimensions only, at a minimum you want 8' 6" H x 10' W x 10' D)
For golfers on a tight budget, that want to swing clubs year-round, this is your ticket. OptiShot is a leading provider of home golf simulator technology that offers a realistic 3D playing experience. You’ll also have the option to golf with up to 4 players. If you can up your spending limit a bit more, take a look at the Golf In A Box 2. For $1,200 all in you’ll, receive an upgrade to the next level Pro Series Net Return net. We think it's money well spent.
2. OptiShot Golf in a Box 3 ($2,800)
OptiShot holds down yet another spot for the budget conscience golfer with their Golf In A Box 3. We're starting to see a trend here. The big difference is the addition of an upgrade to the hitting net, an attachable impact screen and a projector.
Components Included:
- OptiShot2 Infrared Optical Swing Pad
- OptiShot2 Software (Download)
- 15 Courses (including Royal Lytham & St. Annes, Bethpage Black and Torrey Pines)
- USB Cable (10 ft.)
- Adjustable Rubber Tee’s
- Two (2) Foam Practice Balls
- Instructions
- 1 Year Warranty
- Software Updates
- HDMI Cable
- Mounting Bracket
- Extension Cord
- OptiShot Hitting Mat
- Pro Series Hitting Net
- Attachable Impact Screen
- Short Throw HD Projector
Space Required: 7’ 6” H x 8’ W x 3’ 6” D (net dimensions only, at a minimum you want 8' 6" H x 10' W x 10' D)
OptiShot has put together an excellent offering for the golfer seeking a complete system under $3000. This setup includes the short throw projector and impact screen that give the golfer a true feel of being on the course.
3. SkyTrak HomeCourse Net Package ($4243.90)
SkyTrak is another industry-leading provider of quality home golf simulators. The company makes its debut on our list with its HomeCourse Net Package. SkyTrak provides a commercial-quality launch monitor with all packages. The Launch monitor connects easily via a built-in wifi hotspot and is compatible with iPads, Androids and personal computers. You won't have to fuss with wires and the unit contains an internal battery for easy portability. We love the Shot-Tracer that provides accurate feedback using two camera angles. You can practice like you play with this SkyTrak home golf simulator.
Components Included:
- SkyTrak Launch Monitor
- WGT Play & Improve Plan ($199.95 after first year)
- SkyTrak Metal Protective Case
- HomeCourse Pro Series Net (Remote controlled retractable system) Note: no mat included
Space Required: 8’ H x 10’ W x 8’ D (ideally, you'll want a depth of 10'-12' for more distance from the screen)
While this package lacks a hitting mat, it makes up for it with a fully retractable state of the art wireless golf screen. This option is for golfers looking to maximize space utilization at home. With the press of a remote, you can return your room to its original configuration.
4. OptiShot Golf In A Box Pro ($5,000)
OptiShot’s Golf In A Box Pro definitely gives SkyTrak some competition at the $4,000-5,000 price point. So what’s the big difference between the two, you ask? Maybe nothing; this could come down to your preference for a projector along with specific software features, add-ons and compatibility. It’s important to note that this package also includes the same retractable screen enclosure supplied by HomeCourse and seen with the SkyTrak HomeCourse Net Package.
Components Included:
- OptiShot2 Infrared Optical Swing Pad
- Retractable Screen Enclosure & Mounts
- OptiShot Hitting Mat
- Short Throw Projector & Ceiling Mount-
- OptiShot2 Software (Download)
- 15 World Class Golf Courses
- USB Cable (10 ft.)
- Adjustable Rubber Tees
- Two (2) Foam Practice Balls
Space Required: At a minimum you want 8' 6" H x 10' W x 10' D
OptiShot includes a short throw projector while SkyTrak does not, which leads to a golfer’s decision. Do you want or need a projector, and is it worth the extra spend? We’ll leave that one up to you.
5. OptiShot Vision 360 ($9,100)
The Grand Daddy of all Optishot home golf simulator offerings is the OptiShot Vision. This intuitive simulator features high-speed overhead cameras capable of providing precise ball and club data measurements. The 3-camera technology allows for a realistic feel with real-time visual feedback on your shots.
Components Included:
- Cameras
- Game Software
- Driving Range
- Online Play
- Courses 60+
- OptiShot Academy
- Stance Mat
- Screen Kit
- Projector Kit
Space Required: Due to the overhead 3-camera technology and specialty equipment , this one may require some consulting to determine sizing.
The Vision provides data points on the following:
Club Path / Face Angle
Face Impact Location
Angle of Attack
Spin / Ball Speed
Club Head Speed
Carry Distance
Vertical Launch Angle
Horizontal Launch Angle
Club Speed
Total Shot Distance
Smash Factor
The Vision also offers these features as well:
Full Course Play
Stroke Play and Putting
Two and Three Camera availability
Ball and Club Data
Camera Technology
If you’re searching for a home simulator under $10,000. The OptiShot Vision is certainly one option you should take a look at.
6. TruGolf Vista 8 Pro ($13,495)
TruGolf makes the list with the TruGolf Vista 8 Pro. Every simulator in the TruGolf Vista line also comes in a Base series. Golfers choosing to go Base vs. Pro will definitely save some money but at the expense of various features and components. For this reason, we decided to stay with the Pro series option for a more complete home golf simulator package.
Components Included:
- E6 Connect Subscription – Basic (1) Year
- Projector – HD 720p
- Computer – TruGolf Level (1)
- Monitor – 21” Touch Screen
- TruTrack2
- Fairway Turf
- Side Nets
- Containment Brim
- Frame Storage Duffel
- Warranty 1 Year Limited Warranty
Space Required: 15’W x 20’D x 10’H (footprint 9’W x 12’D x 8’H)
This is the most affordable simulator offered in the Vista Pro Series. It comes with technology that keeps perfect tension on the screen which conveys an extremely clear image from the projector. The system has a lightweight aluminum frame that allows for ease of set up and break down too.
7. Foresight Sports Sim-In-A-Box: Birdie Package ($18,500)
As we continue to write bigger and bigger checks, Foresight Sports grabs the number seven spot with Sim-In-A-Box: Birdie Package. Foresight claims to have "the most trusted launch monitors in the world." One thing is sure, they know how to present a great high-end simulator package.
Components Included:
- QCQuad 2 Launch Monitor
- Frame
- Impact Screen
- Projector
- Turf Strip
- Hitting Mat
- Computer Cart
- Gaming-Optimized Desktop Computer (High powered PC to optimize the simulation experience)
- FSX 2020 Software
- 15 World-Class Courses (including Pebble Beach, Old Course at St. Andrews and Carnoustie)
- Fairgrounds All Age Game Suite (classic family games like skee ball, bowling and darts)
Space Required: 13' W x 16" H x 9' H
Foresight Sports offers up a total package with true-to-life simulation and the ability to compete globally with others.
8. TruGolf Vista 12 Pro ($22,995)
Next up in TruGolf’s Vista Series is the TruGolf Vista 12 Pro. This ones for the golfer who seeks portability without compromising size. The Vista 12 Pro comes with a 1080p projector and a widescreen view (16:10 aspect ratio).
- E6 Connect Subscription
- HD 720p Projector
- TruGolf Level (1) Computer
- 21” Touch Screen
- TruTrack2 Tracking
- Premium Fairway Turf
- Portable Enclosure
Space Required: 15’ W x 20’ D x 10’ H (footprint 12’W x 14.9’D x 8.8’H)
With its E6 Connect software, the Vista Series offers some of the best ball flight models available. 4K graphics, detailed 3D course design and peer-to-peer connectivity are a few of the built-in features included.
9. Foresight Sports Sim-In-A-Box: Eagle Plus Package ($26,000)
Foresight Sports received an Editors Choice Best In Golf award for their Sim-In-A-Box: Eagle Plus Package. This package has everything you need and requires very little set up. Golfers have the capability to go from the box to full simulation in a very short period of time.
Components Included:
- QCQuad 2 Launch Monitor (includes club analysis add-on)
- Frame
- Impact Screen
- Projector
- Turf Strip
- Hitting Mat
- Computer Cart
- Gaming-Optimized Desktop Computer (High powered PC to optimize the simulation experience)
- FSX 2020 Software
- 15 World-Class Courses (including Pebble Beach, Old Course at St. Andrews and Carnoustie)
- Fairgrounds All Age Game Suite (classic family games like skee ball, bowling and darts)
Space Required: 13' W x 16' D x 9' H
The club analysis add-on is the real differentiator here when compared to Foresight's Vista 8 Pro. If you're looking to dial in your game, this software is a must.
10. TrackMan Golf (Starting at $49,900)
Never rule out TrackMan Golf when comparing high-end custom golf simulator options. TrackMan Golf offers custom home simulator solutions tailored to your needs. TrackMan has built a reputation based on what’s really important, your data. Their technology helps golfers break down a golf swing and gather it’s DNA for analysis and improvement.
Components Included:
- TrackMan 4 indoor, incl. 1 year hardware and software subscription.
- TrackMan Performance Studio
- TrackMan Virtual Golf 2
- High-end PC for graphics
- Touch screen, keyboard, mouse, cabinet, etc.
- 6000+ Lumen projector
- Enclosure customized
- On-site installation and training
Space Required: 10' x 15' x 9'6"
11. Full Swing Golf Pro Series + Virtual Green ($115,800)
What list would be complete without including a dream simulator combo package? If the pros trust Full Swing Golf, so should you. This ones for the golfer with an unlimited budget that settles for nothing less than the best. We’ve paired up Full Swing Golf’s Pro Series simulator alongside their Virtual Green putting system for the ultimate home golf simulator. High-speed cameras paired with infrared accuracy are provided along with a cinema-quality display. The Virtual Green putting system is a collection of mechanical actuators configured to replicate any putt desired. The topography will literally change below your feet as you choose various putts. Break right, break left, or hills and valleys, the Virtual Green does it all.
Components Included: ($54,900) Simulator:
- Solid Wood Enclosure and Platform
- 360° Infrared Tracks
- ION3 High Speed Camera
- Energy Absorbing Diffuser Screen
- Cinema Quality Projector
- Industrial Grade Carpet and Hitting Mat
Space Required: 60 size configurations available
Components Included: ($60,900) Putting Green
- Putting Surface
- Platform
- Mechanical Actuators
- Software
Space Required: 10’ 10’ W x 19’ 2” L (smaller sizes available but at this price point you’re probably not lacking space)
Current Full Swing Golf users include Jordan Speith, Jason Day, Justin Rose and Tiger Woods, amongst others. Are you ready to install the home golf simulator of the pros?
With so many choices available, it's easy to see there is a home golf simulator to fit any budget. There are numerous factors to consider in the process. Our list is certainly not exhaustive, but we think it will provide you with a good starting point. Feel free to drop us a comment below and share your thoughts with other GolferScore readers.