In the past few years, it was impossible to locate an online golf simulator for less than $5000. For many years the only way for golfers to gain access to the latest technology in golf simulators was via a golf fitting shop or a location. The idea of having a home-based simulator was expensive. Technology has evolved, and today, golfers have access to low-cost golf simulators in their homes. As an ex- PGA Professional, I can assure you that having one of these golf simulators in your house will significantly improve your golfing skills. Look at the top golf simulators that cost less than $5000.
In our 2022 selections, we examined nine golf simulators from five manufacturers. And once again, Foresight’s GQQuad was in the top spot. Find out why we selected this model GCQuad as the ultimate golf simulator of the year. Also, check out three other simulators below, which include options that will fit into any budget.
Indoor Golf Simulator Vs. Outdoor Golf Simulator
Some golf simulators only are used indoors, while others can be moved from indoors to outdoor. It’s important to consider this when you decide to place your launch monitor in the location you’d like to put it.
Certain golf simulators aren’t able to work outdoors because they don’t have a launch monitor that can operate in the sun. Like the Flightscope, Mevo can be used outdoors and indoors, which is why it’s one of the top simulators for players.
The ability to have your golf simulator set up in both outdoor and indoor settings is the best overall value for the simulator you buy.
Is the golf simulator that is best for you?
Before we get into the details, let’s get that big picture out of the way: Your choice for a golf simulator will likely be influenced heavily by what you can afford on your budget. And at the lower portion of the spectrum (i.e. just under $1K for all the features you require), There’s only one option available: The OptiShot 2. It’s a great simulator, but it’s not equipped with some of the high-end feedback you’ll find in top golf simulators.
I wouldn’t suggest going to a cheaper option. There are a few alternatives; I’d consider these “golf games” rather than real simulators. They can simulate a ball’s flight on a monitor to a certain extent, but the accuracy will not be present as you’ll get fake feedback. This won’t aid your game.
Best Golf Simulators Under 5000
SkyTrak PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
The simulator was created through Top Shelf Golf and is one of the top budget simulators available mostly due to the capability to remove certain elements as you wish.
It is possible to keep the price of this software lower than $5000 if you prefer to use an electronic device or a PC and not bring an LCD projector. It is also possible to purchase an inexpensive projector to remain within your budget of $5000.
This simulator utilizes the SkyTrak, the most well-known and popular launch monitor. The SkyTrak tracks your ball’s flight information with an accuracy equivalent to commercial systems, costing more than $9000 and a half the price.
What Is Included
SkyTrak PerfectBay Simulator SkyTrak PerfectBay Simulator features the SkyTrak Launch Monitor, which uses an image-based (camera-based) system for tracking. Included in the base package are:
- an entry-level driving range plan software
- A PerfectBay Golf Simulator Closure
- side netting
- Net Return Pro Turf mat
The PerfectBay enclosure, manufactured in the USA, is 5 feet in depth and features a tough triple-layer impact screen. The screen is not susceptible to sagging and is specifically designed to be 4:3-projected; it reduces noise and is built to withstand speeds of ball up to 250 mph.
It’s difficult to keep the price of this simulator lower than $5000 when you’re looking for more than just the basic components. It’s certainly possible.
Minimum dimensions 12 feet wide by 9 feet high and 16 feet deep are required.
Top Shelf Golf has an established track record and has many satisfied customers. They offer tons of details on each aspect of this simulator. There are a variety of enhancements that can be added to this Package:
- You can select a bigger PerfectBay Plus and a PerfectBay Wide enclosure.
- You can upgrade your SkyTrak program.
- You can substitute mats made of a Pro Turf mat with a Fiberbuilt mat for hitting.
- You can pick the Optoma projector.
- You can also add a projector floor mount enclosure or a ceiling mount.
FlightScope Mevo+ Bronze Golf Simulator Package
If you enjoy playing outdoors in addition to indoors and want to play outdoors, this FlightScope Mevo+ Bronze golf simulator is a great option. Mevoand launch monitor uses radar doppler technology to collect the information from shots. This system of tracking is great for outdoor and indoor usage.
What should be considered is the space size. It is essential to have enough space to accommodate this golf simulator. The minimum space needed is 15 feet in length, 10ft in width and 9 feet in height. Radar Doppler tracking systems need huge areas to ensure data tracking. This is the reason why it’s preferred outdoors.
In addition to the Mevo+ launch monitor, this bundle includes E6 software Net Return Pro Series V2 net and frame with sides barriers, screen short-throw projector, shield for projectors (projector ceiling mount enclosure) and Net Return Pro Turf, 6ft x 10ft mat.
The E6 Connect software is available with 5 golf courses as well as 17 ranges for practice. The golf simulator comes with the Net Return Home Series and Pro Series net choice options. Both are commercial-grade. The net for the home series is a little smaller and more portable than the Pro series. Therefore, although the Pro Series net version costs $5,029 Pro Series net version costs $5,029, you can use it to travel easily.
pros
- Screen and net are available
- Monitor for the launch of portable devices and internet
- Pro Turf mat has an ongoing ball return
- 5 golf courses, 15 data parameters, 17 practice ranges
- Accurate tracking system
- One of the top projectors has 4000 lumens.
- Portable projector shield enclosure for the projector.
- Entertaining for indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- The series Net version requires $29 more than the Pro Series Net version, which adds $29 to your total budget.
- No skill challenge feature
- There is no multiplayer mode.
SkyTrak Bronze Golf Simulator
SkyTrak Bronze is a great option. SkyTrak Bronze option is ideal for those on a limited budget who still want to experience the full simulation, with results displayed on a monitor.
The Shop Indoor Golf Bronze Package is ideal for those with a limited budget who want to enhance any game aspect.
Offering real-time feedback in real-time and ball performance information output to a simulator display, the Bronze SkyTrak package is everything you require to improve your golf game from the convenience of your home.
Available in the premium SIG8 as well as our loaded SIG12 Package.
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, make sure to take a look at the SkyTrak Course Package.
What’s Included In The SkyTrak Bronze Package
- SkyTrak Launch Monitor
- SkyTrak Play & Improve Software
- SkyTrak Metal Protective Case
- Net Return Home or Pro Series V2 Net & Frame
- Side Barriers & Golf Simulator Screen
- 1080p HD Short Throw Golf Simulator Projector
- Projector Shield (projector floor mount enclosure)
- SIG 6′ x 10′ Pro Turf Mat
- 15′ HDMI Cable & Lightning to HDMI Adapter
- Two Rubber Tee – 1.75″ and 2.25″
OptiShot 2 Simulator Series Package
Among the golf simulator packages that are part of the OptiShot brand, OptiShot 2 Simulator Series is a bit costly. However, the price is less than 4000 dollars. The Package includes:
- The OptiShot2 infrared-optical swing pad OptiShot2 software.
- Foam balls for practice net Return Simulator Series golf net Net Return Pro Turf.
- Projector mount kit.
- Side barrier.
OptiShot2 software has 15 golf courses as well as a multiplayer game mode. Up to four players can play with the multiplayer game mode. You can play using any golf club you have in your golf bag, including the putter. OptiShot lets you practice using genuine golf clubs, foam balls or even no-ball.
This golf simulator records the club’s data making use of infrared sensors. It is only suitable for indoor use. It is true that, as it is mobile, you can relocate the unit. The entire setup needs a minimum of 16 feet in length, 12 feet in width, and 9ft the height to be able to set it up. You must ensure that you have adequate to cover the overhead space.
No simulator screen or projector is included with the program. You can, however, practice on the internet since the Net Return Simulator Net is available. There is also a Net Return Pro Turf mat that is just as large as traditional mats. It measures 6 feet by 10 feet in dimensions.
Pros
- Easy to carry and portable
- Simple to use and easy installation
- 15 golf courses
- It comes with one of the top hitting mats
- Side barriers are included.
- Affordable
- You can play with any ball and club
- There is no ball required for practice.
Cons
- Measures are only club information
- Space is needed to be large
- Not suitable for outdoor space
TruGolf Vista
This is the moment to get closer to those “big beasts” of the golf simulators.
Our first choice, the TruGolf Vista Sim, is expected to cost between $10K and $20K, based on your chosen plan.
There’s an increase in precision from the SkyTrak. In essence, you’re viewing Trackman levels of accuracy with regards to the launch conditions. The cameras are not just that are a little faster and sharper to capture ball flight; TruGolf has invested a lot of time (and we’re assuming that they have spent a lot of money) in investigating the mechanics of golf ball impact to come the closest to imagining how a real golf ball would fly, based on the first foot or so of the launch.
When you strike it five yards off the course in the real world, the ball will be five yards off-line in the TruGolf simulator. If you hit it for 30 feet off the system when you play in the real world, you already know what I’m about to say.
While the stat tracking is an improvement step up, what truly draws our attention is how the courses appear. Simply put, they look breathtaking. While SkyTrak offers beautiful golf courses, it’s not hard to see that they’ve got that digital appearance. You’re playing. TruGolf’s methods appear as authentic as you could be with the latest technology. To put it simply, it’s the comparison of the PS5 PS5 (TruGolf) against the PS2 (SkyTrak).
The speed of feedback is remarkable. Once you’ve hit the ball, you’ll be visible to see your stats and the ball’s flight displayed on your screen. There’s no delay.
TruGolf Simulators originate from the same firm that develops the highest-rated E6 golf simulation software, utilized by thousands of PGA professionals and amateur golfers!
Learn more about the features that make TruGolf Simulators and E6 connect different within the golf simulator market:
- Portable & Fully Equipped Golf Simulator Setups
- Includes the Computer, Projector & Software!
- 4K HD Graphics Available
- Up To 8 Person Multiplayer
- Ability To Track Your Driver, Any Iron, And Even Putting!
- Multiple Courses And Skills Challenges To Play With Friends
- Online Play Versus Other Players Possible
- Free Shipping On All Orders
What is the difference between a launch monitor?
A launch monitor is a component of a golf simulator setup and acts as one of the “brains” that measures what’s happening at the point of impact and how the golf ball travels. The results (which comprise statistics like club path, speed of the club head and spin, and trajectory and distance) can be displayed on a stand-alone launch monitor or utilized to mimic ball movement on a monitor in the simulator setup.
Affordable Golf Simulators Buying Guide
As with other top golf simulators, there are also buying guides. Do not think the best budget golf simulator that costs less than $5000 doesn’t need directions on your shopping list. Even though your budget is set, more options within this price bracket are available now than ever before. You may be confused about the best choice for you. Simple guidelines will make your experience more enjoyable. However, with no prior knowledge, you will be unable to bring an ideal golf simulator. Therefore, let’s discover what you need to know to practice or enjoy yourself properly.
- Size
- Portability
- Net Vs. Screen Vs. No Net
- Simulator Software
- Budget
In terms of quality, you can’t compromise whether you purchase at less than $500 or even $1000. Everybody wants the best quality. Therefore, even if your budget is less than $5000, there are many options for selecting high-quality golf simulators. This is when budgets matter.
If you’re paying $1,000 to $2,000, you’re not getting a full setup that includes all the necessary equipment. Additionally, you could be missing the latest technology and features. However, if you’re willing to invest $2,000-$5,000, it will give you top-quality materials and better equipment. If you are thinking about putting a bit more within your budget can give you extra value.
What is the space needed to house the golf simulator?
The size of the space required for a golf simulator depends on the configuration. However, most golf simulators require a minimum of 10’W x10’L x 8.5’H.
How accurate are golf simulators?
The precision of the golf simulator will be correlated in a similar way to the price. A premium golf simulator, such as GCQuad, will simulate a ball’s flight with an accuracy of approximately 95 95%.
What size of space is required for a golf simulator? The minimum recommended room height on a simulator golf course can depend on the exact layout. Still, an ideal guideline is that a setup for a simulator requires a room size of at minimum 8.5 feet.
Conclusion
The use of golf simulators has become more affordable and accessible over the last decade, thanks to many companies working on and producing the most advanced simulation technology. More players than before are equipped with their customized setup.
A simulator for less than $5000 or less could be a great addition to your golfing tools. Searching for a simulator program that meets your requirements is achievable with a little investigation.
All of the simulator options we’ve reviewed offer great value. We’ve provided you with the data you require to make a choice; then, it’s up to you to make the final decision on the route.
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