Best Golf Simulator For Home Use [2023 Complete Guide & Reviews]

Looking to play golf year round but want a solution that doesn’t break the bank and is reliable and easy to set up? Well you’re in the right place then as we’re about to cover the very best home golf simulators on the market in 2023 so that you can choose an option that suits you best.

Creating a simulator setup can be a great way to still get your golf fix year round, especially during those cold winter nights. However, it can be hard to know exactly which one to choose with several different options still out there on the market. We’ll go through a range of options fit for any budget that can be sure to get you out on the course even if it is raining outside but you fancy a round of 18 holes.

Each option has different pros and cons and we take a deep dive into each option and that will allow you to decide exactly which one is right for you to add to your home.

In A Hurry? Here’s Our #1 Golf Simulator Pick:

Flightscope Mevo Plus Homebay

Editor’s Choice

• Comprehensive Solution
• Accurate Game Data
• Practice & Play Real Courses
• Portable

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The Best Home Golf Simulators Are:

Based on our experience and research the below are the best home golf simulators in 2023:

Golf Simulator Benefits

Before we dig into the details of each of our picks we’re going to cover what some of the main benefits are. You may hear about people who have these systems in their house and wondering just why should you install a home golf simulator such as SkyTrak hardware and software in yours to focus on your game improvement and improve your swing.

Ability To Play At Home Or In Your Garage

Well the main benefit is that you can play in your own home with indoor golf simulators when you want and at your own pace. It is also usually much faster to play a round virtually than at an actual course.

Additionally you are not dependent on what the weather forecast so no matter whether you are looking to create some room for a garage golf simulator or something in your home you will be able to play more golf. This is exactly why demand is so high. (Bloomberg)

Choose From Different Golf Course Types

When you are a member of a golf course you are limited to your own course which can get tedious to play over and over again. Even if you have access to other courses you are likely tied by geographic location. However, with simulators it really is possible to get a feel for leading courses in the world whether it be in California with Pebble Beach or Scotland with St Andrews!

The average golf round lasts around 4 hours. However, if you want to gather with friends and complete a round of golf but are under time constraints then indoor golf could be for you. From our experience it is realistic to get through 18 holes within an hour on a simulator such as SkyTrak!

Better Focus On Targeted Training

Often at golf courses you find yourself in the flow of a round and unable to really focus on specific swing skills that are required to improve your swing and ball flight. By taking this approach you are much more able to take mulligan shots and focus on specific shot times. Additionally you will be able to get instant data about your game which is great for data driven improvement, especially with your own launch monitor suited to your needs. You can even combine this with the best golf training aids to work side by side with the golf simulator software and speed up your progress.

Cost Savings

Additionally, sure you will see a large upfront investment golf simulator cost. However, when you add in the savings on memberships, the driving range and green fees then it really could be a shrewd decision to add this to your golf repertoire for the long term!

Best Golf Simulators of 2023

Now that you know which simulators we like, we’ll go into full detail of each one covering the pros and cons of each of our indoor golf simulator choices.

#1: FlightScope Mevo Plus HomeBay

Overall #1 Pick

An alternative to the SkyTrak option from Rain or Shine would be the comparible Flightscope Mevo Plus Homebay Simulator. (We compare their differences here). Just like with the SkyTrak simulator you get all of the additional HomeBay features to turn it into your own home golf simulator experience.

These additional features include the same golf hitting mat, Pro Series Golf Net and Pro Series Screen as part of the golf simulator bundle.

If you have the space and budget for the best impact screen or enclosure then you can’t go wrong with the HomeBay simulation systems as they have all of the essential equipment in a nicely packaged format.

When it comes to choosing between this and the SkyTrak model it all depends on your preference. Personally, we feel that for an indoor simulator the SkyTrak is more robust and comprehensive. However, where the Mevo Plus stands it is that it will be a flexible option that can be used as an outdoor launch monitor.

In terms of gameplay on the Flightscope Mevo Plus simulation system you will find great graphics combined without much of a delay. However, you will need plenty of room between the ball and the screen as it is a Doppler system.

Pros:

• Great software
• Portable launch monitor
• Accurate Data

Cons:

• None

Find Out More: Flightscope Mevo Review

#2: Skytrak HomeBay Golf Simulator

Alternative HomeBay Option

The SkyTrak HomeBay Golf Simulator is perhaps one of the most cost-effective ways to hone your golfing skills throughout the year without having to spend a fortune. This is great whether you want to practice with your driver or all of your golf clubs with their launch monitor and golf simulation software.

This SkyTrak launch monitor and simulator system gives you the most versatile and comprehensive golfing experience possible, by combining the Pro Series Golf Net with the Pro Series screen. With this indoor golf simulator package, you can shift back and forth between general practice and simulator mode on real PGA Tour world class golf courses in just a few seconds thanks to their game improvement software. Regardless of whether you want to lower your score, enhance your swing or have a blast with friends while enjoying the game that you love this launch monitor and simulator combination has it all. 

When it comes to using this SkyTrak simulator, it is normally better to have a space of 8 x 10 x 12 feet available for you to work with. Be sure to double check the ceiling height as this is often the biggest limitation concerning the backswing. In addition to they, to set up your simulator, you will need a compatible computer, iPad or any other compatible device. The instructions within the SkyTrak package are relatively clear, so you shouldn’t run into any difficulty while setting the simulator up.

Pros:

• Flexible
• Cost Effective
• Reliable

Cons:

• None

Find Out More: SkyTrak Golf Review

#3: TruGolf Vista 10

Powerful Performance

What separates this option from some of the others, is mostly the improved core performance, which boasts a much deeper enclosure for a more transparent and brighter image. As a bonus, if you don’t want to put up with the hassle of setting up your golf simulator, this may be the option for you, as no tools are required for installation. Furthermore, unlike Vista 8, this option is very portable and has an ultra-light-weight frame. 

Compared to the Vista 8, the additional software contains an ever broader range of clubs, courses and an extra practice option. Not to mention the important software which provides feedback about your launch angle, ball speed, swing speed, ball flight and much more.  option, but if you are prepared to fork out a little bit more to really take your game and swing to the next level, then this might be the very best golf simulator for you. 

Pros:

• High quality
• Durable
• Great commercial golf simulator option

Cons:

• Not Portable
• Expensive

#4: Optishot Golf In A Box 

Best Budget Choice

This Optishot 2 golf simulator has everything that you need to make your virtual golfing experience as accurate as possible. If you are looking for the best golf simulator for under $1000 then here is our top pick. The most notable feature of this golf simulator is the 16 high-speed 48 MHz sensors that will be calibrated to track your golf club swing. This means that this golf simulator can be adjusted to closely match your own unique needs, and allow for the most realistic experience possible. 

With this cheap golf simulator from Rain or Shine, we don’t think you will ever find yourself bored or out of options. It is alot of fun, even if the golf simulator cost is much less than the competition. This golf simulator has more than 15 golf courses for you to choose from within their software system, and a whole range of game types that you can use to keep yourself entertained or practice your swing. The only potential downside that could be mentioned about this simulator is that it does take a little bit of time to get it set up, but once you do, you won’t be too far away from mastering your skills and lowering your golf score.

Optishot recommend that you set aside at least one hour to set up this golf simulator and hitting mat. Once you are up and running the setup and bring down time is quick which makes it a great choice for a small space is also our best affordable golf simulator.

When it comes to space requirements, Optishot recommend dedicated dimensions of 8.6  x 11 x 16 feet, which is considerable larger than some other options. Make sure to factor this into account when selecting the best golf simulators. 

Like SkyTrak this is a great budget choice!

Find Out More: Optishot 2 Review

#5: SkyTrak SwingNet Package 

Best For Shared Areas

Last but not least from Rain or Shine, we have the SkyTrak SwingNet Package. If you will be using your simulator unit in a shared area, then this might be the best option for you for indoor golf.

Whether it’s a basement, media room, garage or any other area that is shared with the family, this simulator is perfect for those who will need the area restored after each use.

The entire package can be either set up or stripped down in just a matter of minutes, thanks to the highly simple and convenient structure. 

This package is formed around perhaps the most reputable launch monitor on the entire market, the Skytrak Golf Launch Monitor. With this purchase you will also get access to the software system and metal case.

This option is also to be found at a fairly reasonable price, and you will struggle to find a better option for a Flex room than this one.

#6: PhiGolf WGT Edition

Option With Sensors

If you are really on a strict budget and want to get your first taste of using a simulator from home then you may wish to choose the affordable golf simulator, the PhiGolf WGT Edition. Where this option differs from everything else on this list is in the fact that you won’t actually be hitting any real golf balls. Instead the product comes with a swing sensor that detects your golf swing and then will play out on the screen in accordance with the swing of your club.

This option might not be for everybody, especially those who want an authentic simulation experience from home. However, what makes this choice stand out is the fact that it comes with leading World Golf Tour WGT software and is a fraction of the price of the other choices on the list. Sure, the product isn’t as robust, accurate or as in depth but for many amateur golfers it can give you a golf fix along with the ability to practice on a budget on a virtual driving range while also getting access to real golf courses such as Pebble Beach.

Find Out More: PhiGolf review

#7: GCQuad Swingbay Package

Best Premium Option

If you are looking for the highest quality solution possible and have a budget that can stretch a little further then you are likely to be interested in the GCQuad by Foresight Sports Swingbay Package. With their FSX software you get access to leading golf courses with great graphics, a wide variety of practice modes as well as a professional grade analysis that can go in depth about your golf game with both your full swing as well as their putting analysis tool.

The Foresight Sports GCQuad really is a leading solution that comes with Quadrascopic imaging and as such comes at a much higher price point than the other golf simulators on this list. You will be able to get an in-depth view of your game that the most budget options in this guide will never be able to give you. However, it is worth noting that you will need more space for this product which makes it more of a commercial option or for those who have plenty of room for their golf simulator.

What You Get

With the Swingbay package you get access to additional products on top of the launch monitor and the FSX Software. These include a hitting mat, screen and enclosure, projector and ceiling projector mount.

Pros

• High Quality
• Leading Technology
• Accurate Tracking

Cons

• Expensive
• Less Portable

Find Out More: GCQuad Launch Monitor Review

Key Considerations

Now that you’ve decided which of the options above is best for you let’s take a deeper look into what is needed to actually get it set up ready for play in your home and what considerations you might need to make before you make your purchase and start making progress on your swing.

Budget

Firstly, it will be important to consider what your budget is before creating a home golf simulator setup. As you can see above there are a range of launch monitors and golf simulators perfect for any budget that you can select. Therefore whether you want something that is cheap or a more premium option then it is important to pick the best one for you.

You will also need to consider that you will need a range of equipment before you hit any golf ball in your home. Some of the equipment you will need includes a golf mat, golf net/ golf screen and a laptop.

Room Size Considerations

You should also know where you will be keeping your simulator before you set up. This is because some options are better for larger spaces and more importantly if you would be using a small space then you probably are going to have a more limited choice of simulators to choose from. You will also need to consider the ceiling height for golf simulators.

Equipment Requirements

Depending on which bundle you choose and how you buy your home golf simulator there may be other requirements on top of your bundle such as choosing the best hitting mat, the best hitting net or the best projector for your golf simulator. Alternatively you could choose an all in one solution such as the SkyTrak budget package.

Quality Of The Software

Often golfers who are purchasing golf simulators will only consider the physical products that they get as part of their golf simulator bundle. They won’t consider the golf simulation software that comes with their launch monitor. For example with each of our choices on this list there are varying types of launch monitor software.

Another thing to consider when choosing software for your golf simulator is the consideration of if they offer a complete service or if there are membership tiers with upgrades required to unlock full content. For example with SkyTrak you can choose a basic plan with a basic virtual driving range all the way to their Play & Improve plan which unlocks leading software from World Golf Tour (WGT).

Some of the different software brands that can be connected with the best golf launch monitors include WGT, E6 Connect and The Golf Club.

Portability

Golf simulators don’t just have to be for indoors. That is because if you want to have portability with your product you may be able to double it up as a launch monitor to take with you to a physical driving range or even a golf course during a real round of golf. This is where a choice such as Flightscope Mevo comes in. It is much harder with a choice such as SkyTrak or GCQuad which is a bulkier product.

This choice all comes down to your own individual preferences as some golfers want to create a permanent setup at home and others want more of a hybrid product offering.

Data Quality & Accuracy

This is where budget really does come into play. The more expensive launch monitor options to create a golf simulator with usually have the most data points as well as the highest quality level in terms of data accuracy. For example with the PhiGolf you will get basic insights but the product is designed more for fun with friends and really basic level insights. Alternatively, a product such as Flightscope Mevo Plus will give you more accurate data and can be taken with you to the local practice range.

FAQ’s

In Summary: The Best Home Golf Simulator Of 2023 Is…

When it comes to choosing the best golf simulators for you in 2023 to improve your game it all depends on your own individual circumstances and buying criteria. For example if you choose the SkyTrak Budget bundle then you get everything you will need for the best SkyTrak price possible and access to some of the worlds greatest courses with that.

Indoor Golf is surging in popularity and with more and more golf courses becoming available on them this is only going to increase further (PGA Tour). Therefore, with creating a golf simulator setup being a reasonable investment that is where you can get real bang for your buck.

However, if you are looking to save even more money and have access to some kind of golf simulator package in your home then you may be more inclined to try the OptiShot Golf In A Box system which although a budget option still provides an indoor golfing experience year round and is a great way to get started.

Ultimately the choice that you make all depends on your own specific preferences and what you feel is the best investment for you to make progress with your golf swing even if it is raining and snowing outside.