Golf Simulator Cost - How Much Is A Golf Simulator

Golf simulators are a perfect way to practice your golfing skills at home, on a trip, and even outside. Getting to the driving range or out on a golf course is not always possible, so having a golf simulator will allow you to get some golfing time in without ever leaving your house.

But, if the cost of golf simulators has been what has made you hesitate getting one, you might want to look again. The price range for golf simulators is huge, ranging from a couple hundred dollars all the way up to thousands of dollars.

To know which golf simulator would be right for you, you need to know what price you are looking for in a golf simulator. What level of golfer are you? There are golf simulators for everyone. We have looked at the golf simulator costs and which simulators are the best and this is what we discovered.

How Much Does A Golf Simulator Cost

When asking how much a golf simulator costs, it is important to understand that there are different kinds of simulators.

• Low-Cost Golf Simulator: The least expensive, but still great golf simulators range in price from $799 to $4500.
• Mid-Range Golf Simulator: The cost of a mid-range golf simulator runs between $4500 and $8000.
• High-End Golf Simulator: The top of the line golf simulators range in price from $12000 to $70000.

Best Low-Cost Golf Simulators $799 - $4500

Low-cost golf simulators can usually provide you with feedback on your strokes, though not with the same accuracy that you would get from a more expensive simulator.

You can still get a mat and projector with a budget set-up, giving you the best experience possible, even when you do not want to spend as much money. There are kits and packages in this price range as well, so you can get all of the equipment that you need in one box.

1. SkyTrak Compact Golf Simulator Package

Best Low-Cost Golf Simulator (Editor's Choice)

Our choice for the best golf simulator that is on the low-cost side of things is the SkyTrak Compact Golf Simulator Package. This package is a great choice for golfers who do not have a lot of funds or a lot of room to work with, but still want to work on their golfing skills at home.

Features

SkyTrak Compact simulator comes with a lot of great features. To begin with, you can see your shot data in real-time. That means that you will know exactly what you need to change before you take your next shot. The simulator also comes with Game Improvement software that will provide you with a driving range to play on as well as a lot of feedback on how you are doing and where you are going wrong.

The simulator’s data feedback includes the following information:

• Ball speed
• Distance
• Back spin
• Launch angle
• Side spin
• Flight path

The simulator is able to connect to your devices wirelessly as well. That means that you will be able to take your launch monitor anywhere throughout your home, as long as you have enough room for your swing.

The package comes with a projector that can be mounted to the ceiling to give you a stable reading on your shots. In addition to the projector, this is what you will get with the package.

What’s Included in the Package

• SkyTrak launch monitor and protective case
• Game improvement software
• Landing pad turf
• 25 foot HDMI cable
• Ceiling projector mount
• Optoma HD short throw projector
• Choice of hitting mat
• Net return simulator series and enclosure

2. OptiShot 2 Practice Golf Simulator Package

Runner-Up

Our second-place winner for the best golf simulator on the lower-cost side is the OptiShot 2 package. This is a great simulator with a lot of courses and game types to work with to help you with your skills.

Features

Looking at the features of the OptiShot 2 Practice Simulator, you will see that it has swing and ball shot accuracy to make your virtual experience as close to reality as you can get. In addition, this simulator includes 16 high-speed 48MHz infrared sensors that are calibrated to track your clubs. This means that this simulator can be set to match your needs, giving you the most realistic experience possible from a simulation, from each any every shot that you take.

This package also gives you 15 standard courses and a variety of game types to choose from. With this many choices, this simulator will keep you entertained and will never get dull or overly routine, especially if you work on the courses to get better over time.

While the setup of the system can be time consuming, once it is up and running, you should be able to get right on mastering your skills and playing games. Optishot says the setup should only take an hour tops to do, but you have to download the software, hook it up to your computer, set up the nets, set up the mats, and figure out your display. It is going to take patience.

What’s Included in the Package

• 15 standard courses
• Net Return Home Series Golf Net
• Net Return Home Series Side Barriers
• Net Return Pro Turf Golf Mat

3. OptiShot 2 Golf In A Box Simulator Package

Budget Friendly

Even if you are looking for a low-end cost for a golf simulator, even some of the cheaper simulators might feel like too much. If you want a low-end simulator that works well within a budget, we suggest the OptiShot 2 Golf in a Box Simulator Package. This will have what you need to practice without bankrupting you.

Features

The OptiShot 2 Golf in a Box package comes with eight different modes of play as well as 15 master courses to choose from, giving you a lot of options to work with. It also allows you to play with your friends. It can handle anywhere from 1 to 4 players at a time and has the ability to setup for both right and left-handed golfers.

The OptiShot 2 package is the PinPoint Practice feature, which will track and record your progress, so you will be able to see how well you are really doing and what areas of your play need more work. You can monitor yourself really well this way.

The precision ring and accuracy grid can also teach you what a perfect shot should look-like, training you to make accurate shots when you are out on the green in real life. After working with this simulator for a while, your game will improve greatly, so long as you confirm that your setup is right to give you good data.

What’s Included in the Package

• OptiShot 3DD Golf Software by Dancin’ Dogg
• Infrared Optical Golf Simulator Swing Pad
• OptiShot Practice Net
• OptiShot Hitting Mat
• USB cables
• 2 Foam practice balls
• 2 Adjustable rubber tees

Best Mid-Range Golf Simulators $4500- $8000 

With a mid-range golf simulator, you will get a more accurate simulator with better overall components. The quality is higher than it is with low-end simulators, so you should get more life out of it than you might have with a cheaper model. The kind of data that you will get with a mid-range simulator is more specific than the low-end models, giving you better details on the movement of the ball, but you also get stroke data.

1. SkyTrak SwingBay Golf Simulator Package

Best Mid-Range Golf Simulator (Editor's Choice)

Our recommendation for the best mid-range golf simulator is the SkyTrak SwingBay golf simulator package. Most of SkyTrak’s simulators are top-of-the-line in quality and function and this one is no exception, as long as you are good with the golf simulator cost. You will notice that you get more with this package than you would with a less expensive simulator.

Features

Looking at its features, the SwingBay simulator package comes with a heavy-duty projector screen, so it is made to last. It comes with a high-definition display that will work perfectly with your high definition projector and you will get as close to a real game as you can get.

The simulator also has a Game Improvement Plan that will let you practice on your own virtual driving range and get live accurate data for every shot. This will give you access to incredibly software add-ons, such as the Golf Club, which will let you play world-class courses virtually with your friends who also have the software. It will let you play together, even when you aren’t together.

This simulator takes up a little bit more room than some of the other simulators on the market, so you’ll want to check your space before buying. Gently swing your club to make sure that you will be able to swing it in the space that you have selected before attempting to mount your projector.

What’s Included in the Package

• SkyTrak launch monitor
• Protective case
• Landing pad tug
• Choice of hitting mat
• SwingBay simulator screen
• Enclosure
• Game improvement software
• Ceiling projector mount
• 25 foot 1080p HDMI cable
• Optoma 1080p HD short throw projector

2. SkyTrak Retractable Golf Simulator Package

Runner-Up

Our second-place winner for a mid-range golf simulator is the SkyTrak Retractable golf simulator package. This one is great if you do not want to have a simulator up all of the time, because putting it up and taking it down will be simple.

Features

This system comes with a lot of excellent features. To begin with, the simulator uses high-speed photometric algorithm that is comparable to professional launch monitors. The game improvement features will also take your golf game to a more advanced level as you practice. The data that it will give you includes:

• Distance
• Launch angle
• Side spin
• Flight path
• Club head speed
• Ball speed
• Back spin

The HomeCourse simulator screen and enclosure is perfect for golfers who want a space that is a little more flexible and does not have a permanent setup. The screen itself is easy to put up and take down, making it easy to setup. Since the screen is retractable, you will be able to return to any room back to its original form quickly. The retractable option is even battery-powered, so you only need to push a button for the simulator to retract on its own.

The landing pad turf will give you a good amount of protection for the simulator bay while keeping the balls away from your flooring. That way, you do not need to worry that any bad bounces are going to wreck your room.

What’s Included in the Package

• Landing pad turf
• 25 foot 1080p HDMI cable
• Optoma 1080p HD short throw projector
• Choice of hitting mat
• HomeCourse ceiling and wall mount
• HomeCourse retractable screen
• Game improvement software
• SkyTrak launch monitor
• Protective case

3. SkyTrak Budget Golf Simulator Package

Budget Friendly

If you are looking for a mid-range golf simulator that is at the low-end of the cost range, you should check out the SkyTrak Budget golf simulator package. SkyTrak made this simulator specifically to give you something that is affordable, but that still has the high quality that you would want to get from a SkyTrak device.

Features

The SkyTrak Budget might be a more affordable option than some of the other simulators out on the market, but it is still amazing. The simulator comes with Game improvement software that is designed to help you improve your game. The data that you will get includes:

• Ball speed
• Distance
• Side spin
• Back spin
• Flight path
• Club head speed
• Launch angle

The Net Return Pro Series is the net itself as well as the screen, both of which will help to grab your ball and return it back to you after each shot, so you are not hunting it down. It will also keep your ball from damaging your room.

The budget option only gives you a year of the Game Improvement software, so you should keep that in mind if future cost is going to be an issue for you. It would be awful to not be able to use it, because you can’t pay for the annual subscription.

The simulator also uses bag mapping to help with club fitting, ensuring that every shot that you take is documented.

What’s Included in the Box

• SkyTrak Launch Monitor
• Protective Case
• Game improvement software
• The Net Return Pro Series V2 Golf Net
• The Net Return Pro Series Screen
• Pro Series Side Barriers
• Optoma 1080p HD Short Throw Projector
• Ceiling Projector Mount
• 6’x10’ Pro Turf golf mat

Best High-End Golf Simulators $12000- $70000 

The high-end golf simulators really have just about anything that you could ever want from a golf simulator. Once cost is not concern, the sky is the limit as far as what you can get with data, software, and even the quality of the components. It is usually pros who opt to go in this price bracket, but if golf simulator cost is not a concern, you might as well get the best.

1. TruGolf Vista 12 Golf Simulator w/E6 Connect

Best High-End Golf Simulator (Editor's Choice)

Our choice for the best high-end golf simulator is the TruGolf Vista 12 golf simulator. This has the best simulator software that money can buy, giving you nearly the real experience without going out on a course.

Features

Like we said above, the E6 Golf Connect Software is one of the most realistic types of golfing software on the market. It is also completely customizable so you will be able to get a golfing experience that can really help your game. The simulator comes with a built-in practice range as well as 18 holes to play on, giving you ample opportunity to practice.

The Vista 12 allows you to connect with other golfers online from anywhere in the world and have a game. The simulation itself runs in HD, so combine the quality with the other golfers and it is about as close as you can get to being out on the green when you cannot get there in person.

The Vista 12 also has a tension system that gives you with a crease-free picture on your wide impact screen. That will really benefit your accuracy as well as your game. It is important to note that you can purchase the Pro Version of this package and gain a few more features, such as the protective side nets, frame storage duffel bag, and a portable audio speaker, but it does cost extra. Also keep in mind that you will need to renew the Basic E6 Connect subscription annually.

What’s Included in the Package

• HD short throw projector
• TruGolf Level 1 Computer
• 21” touch screen monitor
• TruTrack2 tracking system
• Deluxe fairway turf
• 1-year warranty
• 1-year Basic E6 Connect subscription

2. GC2 Compact Golf Simulator Package FSX Software

Runner-Up

Our runner-up for the best high-end golf simulator is the GC2 Compact golf simulator package. It comes with FSX software, which can be customized to meet your golfing needs.

Features

The GC2 has a lot of excellent features to work with. The simulator is powered by the FSX 2018, which is known to be the world’s most trusted launch monitor technology. This is the reason that it is one of the best monitors that money can buy.

The simulator uses a professional grade analysis that is intuitive, with full-illustrated depictions of ball flight and club head data. That way you will get an accurate analysis of each and every shot right as you are playing.

The data that you get can be emailed or uploaded to your software account as well, so you are able to keep track of your progress. It uses a cloud-based profile system that will save all of your completed sessions. It will also let you challenge other players in skill-building competitions and pinpoint exactly what you need to do to become a better golfer.

The simulator also uses all-in-one technology which will also you to play both indoors and outdoors. It uses an LCD display and an audio feature to give you all of your data in real-time. That means you can adjust your shot as you go, knowing where you need to make improvements after each shot.

What’s Included in the Package

• GC2 Launch Monitor
• Ceiling projector mount
• Optoma HD Short Throw projector
• Landing Pad Turf
• Choice of Hitting Mat
• Net Return Simulator Series
• Net Return Enclosure
• FSX Golf Simulation Software

3. GCQuad SwingBay Golf Simulator Package

Our final review for golf simulators goes to the GCQuad SwingBay golf simulator package. This is one of the best golf simulators on the market and deserves its spot as one of the top choices for high-end golf simulators.

Features

The best feature that you will get from the GCQuad simulator is the Quadrascopic imaging. The GCQuad will deliver unrivalled accuracy and detailed images of ball and club head performance. There is nothing else like this in the golf simulator market.

You can use this simulator at either your home, or you can take it to the range as well. Either way, it will give you reliable and repeatable data during any and every golfing session that you do. The fully-illustrated depictions of ball flight and club head data will make sure that you are getting an accurate analysis of every shot, which you can then save in the FSX cloud for future reference. The data you can get includes:

• Club head speed
• Smash factor
• Horizontal club path
• Dynamic loft
• Lie
• Impact location

The FSX Software comes with an award-winning golf simulator software program that has been custom-designed to use with the GC2 launch monitor. It will give you reproductions of the world’s best golf courses. Combine that with endless settings customization, and you will find that you can feel like you are really out on the green now, even when you are not.

What’s Included in the Package

• Foresight GCQuad Launch Monitor
• FSX Golf Simulation Software
• SwingBay Simulator Screen
• SwingBay Simulator Enclosure
• Choice of Hitting Mat
• Landing Pad Turf
• Ceiling Projector Mount
• Optoma 1080p HD Short Throw Projector

What Determines The Cost Of A Golf Simulator

Launch Monitor Cost

The launch monitory quality can dramatically affect the cost of a golf simulator, with a price range of $299 to $20000. Low-cost launch monitors use more basic metrics to give you data on your shot, whereas a high-end launch monitor can break down your shots into smaller pieces, including ball spin, angle, and even speed.

The amount of accuracy that you can get from a high-end launch monitor is incredible, however. The pros opt to use high-end monitors for this reason. You will get everything from head placement to lie, allowing you to really fine-tune your shots. This is not necessary for casual golfers who are accustomed to playing with a handicap, however. Then, you just need more basic metrics.

Golf Simulator Software Cost

The value of golf simulator software has a massive range. It can cost anywhere from $0 to $3000. The truth is, not all simulators use software and it is not necessary for everyone. Most basic simulators will not need to use software to give you a golf experience. But, if you want feedback and to know what your shots are looking like on the grand scheme of things, you will want software.

Software can be basic and just record your data, or it can be incredibly detailed, giving you a completely realistic golf course to work with and recording every single element of your shot. The level of software that you will want depends on your needs and expectations of the simulator.

Golf Mat

The golf mat is what you are going to be standing on while you are playing. It can protect the floor or ground beneath you while giving you a level surface to shoot from. A golf mat can range in price from $300 to $1500. The price difference is the quality of the mat and how long it will last before being destroyed.

Some mats are closer to a turf texture as well, so it will give you a more realistic golfing experience than a foam mat would. The kind of mat and the amount that you are willing to spend on a mat will depend on your budget and your preference. Some players might like a grassy feel while they shoot while others might not care at all.

Golf Net Or Screen Enclosure

Another features that will affect the cost of your golf simulator is the net or screen enclosure. This is what will catch the ball for you and send it back whenever possible. The net is important to catch stray balls and make sure that you are not damaging anything in your room while you are practicing golf.

A net can range in cost from $500 to $5000, which really depends on the amount of coverage, the sturdiness of the material, and even the simplicity of putting up the net. Cheaper nets are harder to put up and might not last as long as a more expensive net, but it also depends on how hard you are on the net.

Golf Simulator Projector

A projector is another factor that will dramatically affect the cost of your golf simulator. Now, remember, not everyone needs a full projector setup, especially if you are not using a realistic golf system. But, a projector can help display where you are shooting to give you an idea. The price range for projectors goes from $800 to $2000.

The cost is often from the quality of picture that you will be getting from the projector. The higher priced projectors will give you a more realistic, high-definition picture, which you are less likely to get from a less expensive projector. With modern technology, however, any projector is going to be better than what we had in previous years, so you will have a good image at any price.

Accessories

The final factor that can influence golf simulator cost is the accessories. Accessories are the optional pieces that you might or might not want with your golf simulator. These can be add-ons, like subscriptions to clouds or courses, or they might be bigger mats or permanent projector mounts.

There are a lot of personalization options with golf simulators, so the accessories are often more optional than the rest of a package. Take a look at the accessories that are offered and see if any of them would be worth the added cost for you. Since they are accessories, they are not going to be required for your launch monitor to function as well as you need it to, but they can improve your experience.

Final Words: How Much Does A Golf Simulator Cost? 

When you are looking at how much does a golf simulator cost, you will need to consider all of the factors. There is so much technology involved with the development of golf simulators that you can get one at just about any price range.

You know that the low-end golf simulators can cost a few hundred dollars. They will still give you the basic metrics and you can still have a simulated golf experience. High-end golf simulators will look at everything from your club head angle, to your hand position.

If you are in the market for a golf simulator, consider your level of golfing, how often you will use it, and what you can do with the data given. Even if you can afford a high-end monitor, do you need that much information? There is a golf simulator for everyone at any price. Think about your needs before making your choice.