Best Golf Simulator Under $5000

Just a few years ago, it would be impossible to find a golf simulator for under $5000. For years, golfers’ only access to golf simulator technology was through a golf fitting store or location. Having an at home simulator was simply too expensive. However, technology has changed, and now players have access to affordable golf simulators for their own homes. As a former PGA Professional, I can tell you that having one of these best golf simulators in your home is going to make a tremendous difference in your ability as a golfer. Let’s take a look at the best golf simulators under $5000.

Best Overall: FlightScope Mevo+ – Portable Personal Launch Monitor and Simulator for Golf

As we go through our reviews of the best golf simulators on the market, one common theme that you will notice is that there are many pieces required to put together a great golf simulator. Part of what makes it so difficult to find a cheap golf simulator is the fact that you need quite a setup to get this entire process to work.

The best overall golf simulator for under $5000 is the Flightscope Mevo+. Although you will still need to add in a few accessories to make this a complete golf simulator package, the overall design and makeup of this model is something that is much better than other technology on the market.

The Flightscope Mevo is one of the best portable launch monitors on the market. However, this new Mevo+ model has much more capability. There are sixteen data parameters used to give you the most accurate results during your golf simulation experience. The more data a launch monitor can collect, the better the job it can do at displaying this information on your screen.

The Flightscope Mevo collects carry distance, club head speed, ball speed, smash factor, spin rate, spin axis, spin loft, angle of attack, vertical launch angle, horizontal launch angle, shot shape, total distance, roll, flight time, and overall height. This information is calculated in the FlightScope Software to give you accurate and dependable results.

In addition, the Mevo+ will record your videos and allow you to compare those to golf professionals with great fundamentals. The combination of this impressive launch monitor with the E6 Connect Simulator golf courses has many players wondering why they waited so long to invest in a simulator.

If you want to stay within your budget but still get some very impressive golf technology, this is the model to choose.

Best Simple Setup Golf Simulator: OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator for Home | Golf in A Box Series

Even though golf simulator technology has become more affordable and easier to access, there are still times that the golf simulator setup can be very complicated. If you want to keep things simple and get an easy to put away option, the OptiShot2 Golf in a Box is the perfect option to choose.

This is one of the most affordable golf simulator packages that you are going to purchase. You will need to buy the stance mat and the net to go along with the OptiShot 2, but outside of that, you can have this simulator set up for less than $1000.

Of course, when you look at a reasonably priced model, you have to understand that the technology is going to be slightly less capable. Certain parts of the system won’t read in the same way, and you may feel as though there is a disconnect in accuracy. However, for the money, the Optishot2 is the best you can get.

This model works with the use of infrared sensors that will collect golf ball and ball flight data. The sensors are provided in the small hitting pad that comes with the simulator. You will need to then purchase another mat that goes along with this to be able to stand on the same level as the ball.

The OptiShot 2 comes with fifteen golf courses, and then you can upgrade from there if you get bored with those. If you are undecided about how often you will use your at home golf simulator, the OptiShot 2 is a perfect choice. You will not have to worry about getting a good value when you have the impressive features of this simulator for a fair price.

Best Cheap Golf Simulator Under $5000: Phigolf Mobile and Home Smart Golf Game Simulator with Swing Stick – WGT Edition

If the pricing of a golf simulator is a bit of a pipe dream for you then the next best option is the Phigolf Mobile and Home Smart Golf Game Simulator. With this option, you are going to be able to get a golf simulator-type experience without breaking the bank on the equipment.

The Phigolf Mobile and Home Smart Golf Game Simulator will not use a real golf club or a real golf ball. The great thing about this is that you won’t have to worry about a net or a mat; you can simply pull out the Phigolf and play anytime you are ready.

The great thing about the Phigolf Mobile and Home Smart Golf Game Simulator is that it comes with the E6 connect. Even the top golf simulators on the market use this technology to help enjoy high-quality golf courses, driving ranges, and even tournaments. Letting the PhiGolf tap into this technology gives it a much better value.

For golfers that have a winter season and are not able to swing their golf club enough, the PhiGolf is an affordable solution to consider. With the state of the art sensor and swing stick, you will feel as though you are out on the golf course even if you are standing in your living room. Since the swing stick is not the same size as a traditional golf club, the overall ceiling height in your room does not need to be as high.

Even with this being more of a game as opposed to a true simulator, you can still get information on head speed, swing path, tempo. Face angle, attack angle, and estimated distance. This is quite a bit to learn about your game and try to apply that when you head back out on the golf course in the spring.

If you are a competitive person that enjoys playing golf with friends, the PhiGolf allows you to play against friends in tournaments and do skill challenges.

Most Accurate Golf Simulator Under $5000: SKYTRAK PRACTICE Golf Simulator Package

SkyTrak is known for being one of the more accurate golf simulators on the market. With a SkyTrack golf simulator package, you can get all the information you need for both indoor and outdoor practice and golf simulator.

This package is one of our favorites because of all the accessories that it comes with. In addition to getting the SkyTrak launch monitor, you are going to get the Net Return, the SwingTurf Golf Mat, a laptop, and the simulator software. There are also cables and connections to ensure that your setup is perfect.

If you are not the most experienced when it comes to tech and computers, the SkyTrak walks you through the process step by step to make it simple and enjoyable to set this simulator up. In addition, the SkyTrak is very lightweight, so you can move it inside or outside. The golf nets that you choose with your simulator are important for ensuring that they properly protect the walls in your home. This is a great golf net that lasts for years to come.

Another great feature of the SkyTrak training package is that you will be able to work on your individual game. There is game improvement software included that helps you track your practice and decide which parts of your game will need the most work.

Sometimes it is hard for golfers to know what to work on and how their game is going to be impacted without the data from a golf simulator to let them know. With the SkyTrak, you will really be able to see and track the progress in your golf game.

The SkyTrak also comes with side barrier netting, and this is something that all golfers should consider investing in. Let’s say that you have a bad shot that flies off the heel or toe of your golf club. This is unfortunately quite common in the world of golf. However, a golf net with side barriers will keep any errant shots from hitting the walls in your home or damaging your other simulator technology.

Wher the PhiGolf is a fun game-like option for working on your golf, you will find that the SkyTrak golf simulator is much closer to a real golf course experience in your own living room.

Best Launch Monitor For Simulator Under $1000: FlightScope Mevo – Portable Personal Launch Monitor for Golf

As we have mentioned, the launch monitor is the most important part of the golf simulator setup. If you want to purchase just a launch monitor and use it to build the rest of your simulator out, the FlighScope Mevo is a great choice. FlightsScope Mevo makes an all-in-one solution for golfers looking to set up a golf simulator, but it is over $1000.

However, you can purchase just the launch monitor and work with your other smart devices and current at home setup to put together a great setup. One of the things that set the Mevo apart is the accuracy of the model.

You will notice that you can use the launch monitor both indoors or outdoors, and it can capture both data and video. The MEVO can be set to automatically record so you can just continue to hit into your golf net, and this launch monitor will get the information you need.

Some of the data points that the Flightscope Mevo can pick up on include club head speed, ball speed, smash factor, spin, flight time, and more. Overall the Flightscope is used even by very low handicap players looking for very detailed specifics on their game.

Another great feature of the Mevo is that it will save older data so that you can have lots of great information stored over time to review and compare the swings that you are making.

Best Premium: MEVO+ PRACTICE Golf Simulator Package

You may have seen the Flightscope Mevo+ on our list already, but this package deal puts everything together for you and fits in under the $5000 budget. The Flightscope Mevo + is perfect for the golfer that likes the features and functionality of the FlightScope Mevo+ package but didn’t want to put together the rest of the solution.

With this package golf simulator, you are going to get the Mevo+, Net Return Net, SwingTurf Mat, Landing Pad Turf, Laptop for running the app, and the simulator software. In addition, the package comes with all the cables that you will need to get everything hooked up and started.

To turn this into a true simulator, you will still need to purchase an impact screen and a projector to display the images on the screen. With this package, you get the choice of a few different software options so that you can play several golf courses.

Another thing about the Mevo+ package that is worth mentioning is the accuracy. Golfers that are looking for the best affordable golf simulator are often going to forget about the fact that accuracy matters. The more accurate the launch monitor that comes with the simulator, the better the experience will be.

The Mevo will leave you completely satisfied with its capabilities and ensure that you can get a really excellent simulator experience.

Buyers Guide

Hopefully, you now feel as though you can choose one of the best golf simulators under $5000 for your needs. Golfers should feel lucky that these best golf simulators are now available in this price range. Technology has come quite a long way. Now it’s time to narrow down which of these affordable golf simulators will be the best for your home. Here are the things to keep in mind when choosing your golf simulator.

Size Requirements

The room you will put your best golf simulator in needs to be the appropriate size to manage the net and your golf swing. Most of the time, the ceiling height is the hold-up for golfers. Unless you have an eight-foot ceiling or higher, you are going to have a hard time fitting in a golf simulator.

Most golfers need a nine-foot ceiling to have the full freedom to swing the golf club without holding back. When your home’s ceiling height is not high enough, you may try and swing a bit restricted, and the overall results of your golf swing are not going to be all that effective.

In addition to the ceiling height, having enough depth in the room for the projector to work and the simulator to correctly display results is also essential. Take a clear look at the size requirements of the simulator that you are interested in, find something that fits in your space.

Indoor Golf Simulator vs. Outdoor Golf Simulator

Some golf simulators can only work indoors, while others can be moved from the indoors to the outdoors. It’s essential to make this consideration to put your launch monitor where you would like to put it.

The reason that some golf simulators won’t work outside is that they don’t have a launch monitor that can work in the sunlight. Something like the Flightscope Mevo can work both indoors and outdoors, and it is what makes it one of the most popular simulator options for players.

Having the ability to bring your golf simulator set up indoors and outdoors makes for a great overall value of the simulator you purchase.

Setup and Design

Not all golf simulators are set up the same way. Some will require you to change an overhead light or camera, others will work just fine with a basic golf net, and others need a simulator screen. The setup and design of your golf simulator will determine how you use it and whether or not you are capable of putting it together on your own.

Remember that it can be worth spending a bit more money at this stage in the game to get a golf simulator that will meet your needs for years to come.

Accessories and Supplies Needed

Some golf simulators will come with the launch monitor, software, hitting net, mat, and impact screen. Others are just going to be a launch monitor with a launchpad. The most important part of the process is to understand what accessories and supplies are needed before purchasing your simulator.

You may see an affordable golf simulator priced at $2000. However, upon closer look, the simulator may not allow you to use real golf balls, or it may not have a net that you can use with it. 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.

Subscriptions

If you are using your golf simulator to play rounds of golf with friends or experience different golf courses around the country, chances are you will need a subscription of some kind. The subscription allows you access to the golf courses through a simulator software package.

The subscriptions are going to be an additional cost with your simulator package. Most will allow you a few golf courses for free and then have many others that you can pay for. A golf simulator typically comes with some kind of a driving range that you can view, but you may have to pay extra for skills challenges and games.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Purchasing a golf simulator is a big choice. There are so many options on the market, and they all have unique product offerings; if you are considering purchasing one of the best golf simulator options on our list, here are a few questions to ask yourself before the final purchase.

Can I Install A Golf Simulator For Under $5000?

A golf simulator can be installed for less than $5000. This is relatively new for the golf world, but now there are affordable and effective solutions for players that are looking for an at-home golf simulator. If you are good with technology and able to piece together different options for a simulator, you are going to be in luck.

Finding an affordable net, impact screen, projector, software package, and more is very important; however, ensure that you are using your golf simulator enough to get the most for your money.

Is An Affordable Golf Simulator Worth It?

An affordable golf simulator is well worth the price that you will pay. Golfers can play on rainy days, practice their game in the off-season, and even put in some time playing with friends from the comfort of their own homes.

Now that golf simulators are dropping in the price, they are becoming an even better resource and option for golfers of all different handicap levels. It doesn’t matter if you are new to the game of golf or have been playing your entire life; chances are a golf simulator can help in some way.

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 to get the simulator to work.

If you are new to golf simulators and how they work, here are the things you will need to ensure you have a complete simulator setup.

• Launch monitor
• Hitting net
• Hitting mat
• Impact screen
• Projector
• Software
• Computer technology

Who Makes The Best Golf Simulators?

The best golf simulators are made by SkyTrack and Mevo. However, with the way that golf simulators are designed and constructed, you can take pieces from several different golf manufacturers and put together a great golf simulator. For instance, the net and the mat are not always going to be from the same company that the projector and the launch monitor are from.

You can put together a great golf simulator package using equipment from several different manufacturers. However, it is very important that you purchase an excellent golf launch monitor and invest in great technology for the software.

With these two things, you will end up with a tremendous amount of accuracy and a more real life experience on the golf course.

How Accurate Are Golf Simulators?

A golf simulator is only as accurate as its components. If you purchase a golf simulator that does not have high-quality launch monitors or great ball flight information, the golf simulator itself is not going to be worth it.

The most accurate simulators involve the use of a very good launch monitor by Trackman, Flightscope, Sky Trak, or Mevo. Once you have that part of the equation figured out, you can get the accuracy that will almost resemble your real golf game.

The putting and chipping can sometimes take a bit of time to get used to with a golf simulator, but in the end, you should be able to see how the simulator works and what makes it accurate or not accurate.

Check our guide on the best golf club on the market

Conclusion

Hopefully, you now feel ready to purchase a golf simulator for your home. The Flightscope Mevo Plus golf simulator package is the best overall choice for golfers that are looking for an affordable yet accurate and effective golf simulator package for their home. If you are ready to make this investment and want something that will last for years to come, this is the perfect choice to consider. A golf simulator can completely change your game and give you access to the course all day, everyday. Enjoy this technology upgrade that golfers can take advantage of and become the player that you have always wanted to be.