How Much Does A Golf Simulator Cost?

A golf simulator can be a great addition to your home, office, or even business. However, these golf simulators have quite a few components and some high costs. We have broken down all of the factors to consider when purchasing a golf simulator, how much they cost, and how you can get the most for your budget.

In this article we will:

1. Cover low, mid and higher-priced options and what you can expect from each.
2. Break down the costs for all individual components you will need.
3. Share our top picks in each price category.

How Much Does A Golf Simulator Cost

A home golf simulator or indoor golf simulator can cost anywhere from $1000 to $50,000. This is a rather large range and something that makes it a bit difficult to decide if this is something worth investing in.

Most of the best golf simulators can be divided into three categories, a low price, mid-price, and premium range simulators.

Low Price (Less than $5000)

A low price golf simulator will have a launch monitor, a net, and a hitting mat, as well as an introductory level software that will work with your golf simulator. The low price golf simulator may not have a screen or a projector and will also be limited on accuracy data (distance data tends to be pretty solid).

Many golfers will use a computer or iPad in combination with their golf simulator to get the simulator experience without having a large projector and screen. These lower-price simulators are good for an area of the house where you have to take the golf simulator setup up and down.

Mid Range (Between $5000-$15,000)

The mid-range golf simulator will have the launch monitor, hitting net, golf mat, simulator software, screen, and projector. This golf simulator setup will be the most popular for home use. Most of the time, the $7000-$9000 range is really where you need to be to get a full golf simulator experience at home.

These mid-range simulators have good accuracy; the golf mats are typically larger but can lack the weight of premium mats. The indoor golf simulators come with a screen and a projector, and the images are clear and easy to see.

Premium ($15,000++)

Premium home golf simulators are the best golf simulators for a golf fitting center, teaching center, or an average golfer with plenty of extra money to fuel their golfing dreams! The golf simulator software used in the premium simulators is quite impressive.

You will notice that the graphics are clearer, and you often have access to better golf courses and skills games. Many of the premium golf simulator setups will come with a gaming computer or laptop to ensure that the entire system works well together.

In addition, premium golf simulators will have high-end launch monitors with incredibly accurate data. The data will not just be golf ball data but also golf club data. This can help players with swing path issues and overall game improvement.

What Is Needed For A Golf Simulator Package (And Associated Costs)

You can opt to buy all the components separately, or opt for a package deal that will contain everything you need. The choice is up to you and comes down to more convenience vs more flexibility on your build.

Below are the key components you’ll need, price ranges and some often forgotten costs for your build.

Launch Monitor ($300-$25,000)

The launch monitor is the most important part of an indoor golf simulator and a good portion of your indoor golf simulator cost. There are some great portable golf launch monitors on the market that can help your golf game, but not all of these are designed for a golf simulator.

The launch monitor predicts where your golf ball goes on every shot – skimp on this and your entire simulator experience will be poor.

The only way the simulator knows if your drive went 230 or 260, left or right, high or low, is because of the data the launch monitor collects between impact and the ball hitting the screen.

The higher-end launch monitors will collect golf club data in addition to golf ball data, and this only improves the total accuracy.

Under $2000 will get you a monitor that will track distances, but will off poor or no data on how far left or right the ball finishes (this is because the spin rate, resulting in shot curvature is tough to track accurately).

For a highly accurate at-home golf simulator, we would recommend a launch monitor from Mevo Plus monitor at the lower end, and then Flightscope X3, Foresight GC range and TrackMan at a higher price range. We’ve used all of the above and are confident they’ll offer a great experience.

Simulator Software (Free to $3000 per year)

The simulator software will help you experience different golf courses and practice facilities all over the world. Simulator software is linked to the launch monitor you buy some are included for free, some have a one-off fee and some have annual subscriptions.

There are also options to upgrade the course you have access to with extra packages. World Golf Tour and E6 are two top-rated golf simulator software options. Each of these will have impressive graphics and a base package that comes with at least five golf courses to play.

This topic is so varied that our best advice is as follows:

1. Be mindful of costs and what you have access to when choosing your launch monitor or golf simulator package.
2. If you want a rough estimate, budget $200-$500/year for upgrades or on-going subscriptions.
3. Don’t underestimate the importance of software in your choice – a golf simulator should be used to keep yourself occupied on rainy days, but it also can help with improving your skills under pressure. Great golf courses, a virtual driving range combined with excellent skills challenges can be incredibly fun and good for your golf game.

Golf Mat ($200-$2000)

The golf mat for an indoor golf simulator is just another factor that will make this feel like a place to swing a golf club or a really impressive set-up with a true simulator experience.

The number one mistake that we see golfers make in a home golf simulator setup is purchasing a golf mat that is too small, too light and not realistic. When you invest in all of the other costs for your indoor golf simulator setup, it is worth a few hundred dollars extra to get a large-scale golf mat which feels great to hit off.

Here are our top tips:

1. Where you can opt for a larger, heavy mat, with a high-quality hitting surface.
2. Buy additional foam to place around your mat so it sits flush with the floor – this makes a big difference to your simulator experience (see below).

In addition, the premium golf mat will have more protection for your hands and wrists and will allow you to spend hours in your simulator system without feeling fatigued or having potential injury.

Projector, Screen & Net ($1000 to $6000)

The projector and screen setup will typically cost between $1000 and $6000. These are the golf simulator costs that people often forget, or undervalue when they are putting a simulator together.

If you are not tech-savvy, we highly recommend purchasing a projector and screen from a company like Rain or Shine Golf or Shop Indoor Golf that will offer projectors specific to golf. If this is your thing, then great, feel free to run wild.

There are specific guidelines that a projector must have and these do vary depending on your launch monitor. These include . . .

• Connectivity type (often HDMI)
• Short Throw Projector wall or floor mounted
• At least 3000 Lumens
• 16:9 aspect ratio, if possible

The screen size and surrounding structure are also important considerations. Where possible aim for a bigger screen and one that is pulled tight by a solid structure – a flimsy screen is a real detractor from your simulator experience.

Golf Hitting Net/wall mounting ($300-$5000)

The golf net can be as simple as a traditional golf net that you would use in your backyard, or it can be a more advanced setup with the screen included (see the Sim package options in the next section). If you opt for a golf net with no screen, your simulator experience will be very limited. You must also consider the size, the rebound, and the ball return.

A cheap golf hitting net is a bad idea for a golf simulator. Not only are you going to find it annoying to continually have to retrieve your golf ball, reinforce the net and stay close to it because of the smaller size, but you could also cause some damage to your home.

We highly recommend a golf hitting screen that has netted sides. Even the best players can hit one off the toe or the heel from time to time, and it causes the ball to shoot off track rather quickly. Unless you want to do repair every few months, pay the extra for the sides.

A golf projector screen with padded walls is the best and most expensive option, as they tend to be custom built. But buying a projector screen with side nets is a great first step, with the option to fit out your walls will padding at a later date.

Ipad/Computer ($500+)

The IPad or computer that you need to run the golf simulator software can be something that you already have in your home. If you are looking to put together the best value golf simulator, then finding something that is compatible with your current technology will help to save quite a bit of money.

If you are putting together a high-end, golf simulator or a commercial golf simulator, then a gaming laptop is the best overall option to consider. The impressive graphics card, as well as high speeds, will ensure that you get the overall experience that you are looking for.

There may still be a small lag even with a great laptop, this is often caused by the launch monitor calculating the ball flight – even TrackMan has a small lag, so this is just something all golf simulators have to cater for.

When buying new, make sure that you consider the software that you are going to use. Most golf launch monitors come with a basic plan that allows for a few golf courses and a practice area. Golf simulator software costs can add up quickly, and ensuring that you have a laptop or computer that is compatible is important.

Cables and Setup Related Expenses ($50-$500)

In order to put your golf simulator setup together, there are a few cables you may need as well as lighting and sometimes a mount for the projector and screen. These are simple expenses that will not impact the overall cost of the project by very much.

However, before heading down the road of purchasing the best golf simulators, it makes sense to have a general idea of all the associated costs.

Room fitting ($0 -$1000)

You’ll need enough plug sockets to power your laptop, projector and launch monitor. Your floor will have to be sturdy enough to take a few thousand golf shots through the golf mat, and depending on your choice of screen (free standing or fixed) you may need to install a wooden frame to secure your screen.

These are the most commonly forgotten costs when building a golf simulator at home.

Some extra top tips include – fitting an additional TV screen so you can display impact data alongside your simulator graphics on the main screen. Additional spotlighting and painting your room a dark colour can also really add to your simulator experience.

Below is the setup at Foresight’s London HQ. The flush golf mat and dark carpeted wall really make this feel like a premium experience.

Low/Medium & High Price Golf Simulator Cost (What Do You Get)

We have tested out various golf simulator packages and what you will get for the cost. If you are trying to decide which path is best for you, here is what you can expect within these three price ranges.

Best For Budget-Friendly Basic Setup: Flightscope Mevo Practice Golf Package (Under $5000)

The Flightscope Mevo Practice Golf package is for the player that is just getting started with the indoor golf simulator setup. This will not have a projector or a screen, it comes in at less than $5000, and it will help players have an accurate and meaningful practice session at home.

The great news is you have the core of a higher-end setup (thanks to the Mevo+), meaning you can upgrade to a screen and projector later on.

What Is Included

• Mevo+ Launch Monitor
• FlightScope App
• E6 Software
• Net Return Pro Series Hitting Net
• 5’x8′ premium hitting mat
• IPad pro
• Ball Tray

Who Is It For

The Flightscope Mevo Practice Golf Package simulator setup is for those that are on a budget but care about accuracy. Out of all of the launch monitors that we have tested through the years, Mevo+ continues to be one of the best on the market.

The tough part about this option is that you won’t get the full simulator experience without the projector and screen. However, the iPad or gaming laptop stand is effective and helps you still see your results quickly and easily.

One of the things that make this package such a great value is the fact that it still gives players very accurate ball flight data. The launch monitor is portable, and you can head outside for a session at the range as well.

SkyTrak Swing Bay Golf Simulator Package (Best Under $10,000 for small spaces)

The SkyTrak Swing Bay Golf Simulator Package is a great choice for those that are looking for a complete option, with impressive technology and the ability to feel like you are playing golf from the comfort of your home. The SkyTrak Swing Bay Golf Simulator package is a slightly larger investment at just under $10,000, but it has the technology to back up the overall costs and works very well if you are constrained for space.

What Is Included:

• SkyTrak Launch Monitor
• SkyTrak App and Game Improvement Software
• SwingBay Hitting Enclosure with Screen
• Side netting
• Gaming Laptop, Stand, and Laptop Sleeve
• Large golf mad size
• Optoma Short Throw Projector
• Floor or Ceiling Projector Mount
• Cables, Ball Tray, Tees

Who Is It For:

This is the perfect option for those that have a long winter ahead of them or are ready to make a bigger commitment to becoming a better golf. The SkyTrak SwingBay golf simulator bundle is highly accurate, very comfortable, and fun to use, and will make you feel like you truly have a golf simulator room in your home.

Best Premium – When Money Doesn’t Matter: Foresight Sport GC Quad SIG10

The Foresight Sports Sport GC Quad SIG10 will run you close to $20,000, and it is a really impressive simulator set up for those that don’t have to worry about their budget. One of the things that really helps the Foresight Sports GC Quad stand out is this impressive launch monitor.

The GC Quad is one of the most accurate golf launch monitors in the game, particularly for indoor use. Players will get both club head and ball flight data making the results from this simulator package incredibly accurate.

What’s Included:

• GC Quad Launch Monitor
• Power Adapter & Cable
• USB-C cable and HDMI Cable
• Alignment stick
• FSX 2020 Software
• SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure
• Side Barrier Netting
• Large Golf Mat (Choice of Several Options)
• Panasonic VMZ50U Golf Simulator Projector
• Ceiling Mount

Who Is It For:

Obviously, a $20,000 price point is considerably more money than the other simulator setups on our list. However, if you have the money, you will benefit from the incredibly accurate data that this simulator provides.

Many indoor golf fitting facilities and golf swing specialists will use these GC Quad launch monitors in their studios. This speaks to the quality of this launch monitor and the overall effectiveness of the product.

Why Do Prices of Golf Simulators Vary?

Have you seen some golf simulator packages priced at $1000 and others at $50,000 and wondered how the difference in price could be so much?

This is a very common question that golfers have about why golf simulators vary in price so much. There are a few key components that must be considered when looking at the price range of a simulator.

When putting an indoor golf simulator in, some of these choices about where to purchase premium products and where to get a value product can make or break the overall functionality of your simulator. For more detailed reviews check out our main article on the best golf simulators.

Launch Monitor Quality

The launch monitor quality is the piece that we feel is the most important when putting together a golf simulator. The launch monitor is the only way your simulator will be able to grab data and display it for you.

When you purchase a great launch monitor, not only will your simulator be more accurate, but you will also be able to use this launch monitor to make real improvements in your game. Choose something that works both indoors and outdoors. When you are not using the golf simulator, take the launch monitor to the driving range with you.

Good quality launch monitors are closer to the $2000 range. Although you can find some small portable units around $500, they will lack the number of data points necessary to get the functionality you need.

Premium launch monitors that give ball and club head data are $8,000+, but give another significant bump up in accuracy and their ability to help you improve your golf game.

Practice or True Playing Experience

Think about what you plan to use your simulator for. If you plan on hitting a few practice shots and warming up your swing when the weather is too cold, or it’s raining, than you can go with a lower cost golf simulator. However, as soon as you want the real feel of playing a famous golf course, the golf simulator has to be higher in quality.

For those that are less picky about what the simulator needs to do, the less that can be spent.

Permanent Setup or Portable Unit

Do you have a designated place in your home where your home golf simulator will stay? For those with a true golf simulator room, there is more reason to purchase a high-end unit that can stay in place and work as a special addition to the home.

If you plan to take the simulator up and down each time you use it, you may want something lighter, a bit less expensive, and able to take up and down when necessary. Evaluate the space you have and spend money accordingly.

Is An At Home Simulator Setup Worth It?

If the pricing of these indoor golf simulators has not already scared you away, then you may still be wondering if this is the right fit for you. Some people don’t know how they ever functioned without an at home golf simulator, and others do not want to even mess with this kind of technology. Here are the things to know about whether an at home simulator setup is worth it.

Budget

We know you have seen the ads for full golf simulator packages for less than $1000. Although this may exist, it’s not going to be anything like the package that you get when you pay $7000 or $15,000.

If your budget is not close to the $5000 range or slightly above, you may want to put this project on hold for a while. We would recommend buying something like the FlightScope Mevo or Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor and using this at the driving range in combination with the app.

The Rapsodo Mobile just makes it easier to track your game and see your stats as well as how you are progressing. This won’t break the bank, and you can always have it for practice even after you save up for the simulator purchase.

Space

If you don’t have the space for a golf simulator, it’s very hard to create the space. Although these units will sometimes work outside, there are issues with glare and being able to see the screen, and it is not always as great of an experience.

You will need a room that is 10 x 10 with at least 8.5 feet of height. The more space you have, the better because you will be able to properly place the launch monitor.

Amount of Use (Climate Considerations)

If you live in an area where the climate is mild all year long, your golf simulator may not get all that much use. However, if you live in an area with a three-month-long golf season, the golf simulator may get more use than the golf course.

In addition to the weather being too cold to play, try to consider how busy your local golf courses are, the amount of rain you get in a year, and for areas in the desert how hot it gets in the middle of the summer.

Try to consider how many days per week you will realistically use your golf simulator. Try to consider all the other obligations and be honest with yourself here. If you find that you will use it a few times a week, it’s much easier to justify the total amount spent.

Changing Technology

Golf simulator technology changes quickly. We have seen prices drop considerably in the last few years. The launch monitor technology that is now available for a home use was once reserved for golf fitting and golf courses.

Technology is getting more affordable and higher quality. However, there is something to be said for waiting a bit to see what direction this takes. If you are on the fence about whether or not a simulator is a right fit for your game, it’s ok to wait a few years to see where this technology goes.

Golf Goals

For those that are looking to lower their scores and improve their golf game, a simulator can be really helpful. However, if you are happy with your game and feel as though you don’t need much improvement, then this investment may not be worth it.

With your golf goals, try and think about your commitment level and whether or not the simulator will be worth the money.

Who Needs An At Home Golf Simulator?

Now that you have a much better understanding of all that a golf simulator has to offer, how much they cost, and what you get with the package, who really needs one of these?

Of course, you will have to decide based on your individual budget and goals, but there are a few golfers that will benefit from having a simulator and should consider saving up for one of these sooner rather than later.

The Golfer With Rough Winters

No matter how many pairs of winter gloves you own, playing golf in the winter is rough. The golf ball doesn’t fly as far, you won’t have the same feel around the greens, and it is generally uncomfortable.

However, if you don’t play golf the entire winter, expect a tough spring when you start back up again. The golf simulator will bridge that gap between the summer and winter and make it a much easier transition.

New Players On A Misson To Improve

If you are new to the game of golf and ready to get your scores low at a fast pace, the golf simulator is a great investment. There is no need to worry about waiting for the course to be open. Practice at 5 am and 9 pm if it fits your schedule.

The Working Professional That Can’t Get To The Course

Working professionals want to spend more time on their golf game, however, there are issues with daylight and being able to fit it in. Luckily with a golf simulator, you will always have a place to practice and prepare, without having to worry about the golf course being open or your work schedule coinciding.

A Family That Needs Something To Do Together

Golf simulators can be fun for the whole family. If you have young kids and are trying to keep them busy doing constructive things, the golf simulators are a great option to consider. Many software options have multi player games, and you can do skills challenges, not just rounds of golf.

The Club Fitting Small Business Owner

There are quite a few small business opportunities out there for people that love the game of golf. For those that like to tinker with clubs and handle things like lie angle adjustments and regripping for their friends, the golf simulator can help to earn more money and business.

The Avid Golfer

Last but certainly not least, those that truly love the game of golf will find that a golf simulator is a great addition to their at-home setup. The avid golfer does not necessarily need to be alow handicap player, but instead just someone that is really into the sport.

How To Get A Great Deal On A Golf Simulator Package?

We have established the fact that golf simulators are a large investment, however, there are things that you can do to help you save money on a great golf simulator package. If you are ready to dive in but want to be sure that you get something that will last for years to come and give you the technology and performance you need, here are a few tips to save money.

Be Willing To Piece A Simulator Package Together

Sometimes the package deals are a great way to save money, and sometimes they have you paying for things that you don’t need. If you already own a launch monitor and an iPad or gaming laptop, see what you can pair with these devices to put an excellent golf simulator package together.

Purchase Over Time

If you can’t invest in the entire thing all at once, purchase the golf simulator setup over time. Maybe you will invest in the net and the launch monitor and mat the first year. The following year you can add the projector and the screen, and it will help eliminate some of the initial shock of this project.

Go In On It With Friends

Do you play golf with a group of the same people each week? Chances are all of these people have also considered adding a simulator to their home at some point. We highly recommend talking to your friends, seeing what their thoughts are, and investing in something that you can all use week after week. If four people split an $8000 simulator, the entire project gets much more affordable.

Look For Financing Options

If you know you want to get a golf simulator and that it will help your golf career, several websites will offer financing help to those that need it. The financing options will ensure that your simulator can be in your home and provide you entertainment, even if you can’t come up with the total purchase price all at once.

Conclusion

We know this ultimate guide on the golf simulator cost probably felt like a lot of information, but this is a bit decision. Golf is not a cheap sport, and as offers, we are accustomed to spending a great deal of money to play the game we love. Although a golf simulator is far from necessary for every golfer, it can be a great way to add entertainment to your home or office space.

Hopefully, the tips throughout this article have given you a much clear idea of how much to spend and where to invest that money to create a great simulator experience.

Happy golfing.