When people think about golf simulators, they usually imagine an indoor setup. Indeed, this is the most golf simulator computer common setting for a simulator. Many people want to understand their swing and improve their game, but they either don’t want to play outdoors or can’t play outdoors due to weather or a cold winter season.
Others want a quality golf simulator for their indoor business establishment or for an indoor golf event.
Whatever your reasons are, not everyone can afford to invest in a simulator that costs tens of thousands of dollars. Fortunately, as golf simulator technology has advanced, more affordable solutions have appeared in the market, so there are options that can accommodate a wide range of budgets.
Size
White Measuring Tape
Size is a very important factor in golf simulators, especially indoors where space is more limited.
As a rough rule, the more expensive the simulator, the larger the footprint it will take up. A full screen, enclosure and turf will likely require the most space, while a practice net will require less space.
Tracking
OptiShot Swing Pad
Consider the tracking system that measures your ball and club data. Is it photometric (SkyTrak), stereoscopic, infrared, radar-based, or something else?
Of course, some tracking systems are better than others, which is where much of the price difference comes from. Some tracking systems have better accuracy, better reliability, and less lag between the ball hitting the screen and the ball flight displaying.
For example, while the inexpensive Optishot 2 is regarded as being a lot of fun, many complain that the infrared tracking system doesn’t do a good job of detecting clubs and is too picky about lighting.
Net Vs. Screen
Netting Closeup
There are generally two options when it comes to golf simulators:
You can project your shots onto a life-size screen.
You can hit into a net, but still be able to view your shot data and see the ball flight on your connected computer or tablet.
Unlike outdoors, setting up a screen and projector indoors is straightforward. They are more expensive than net setups, but they can make a huge difference in terms of the simulator experience; a big part of this is that you don’t have to rush over to your computer after every shot to see the active ball flight.
Software
The Golf Club Simulator Logo
You should also consider what kinds of things you want to do, games you want to play, and activities you want to take part in on your golf simulator.
Different simulator systems will support different software. For example, SkyTrak has software in three membership levels:
Basic Plan: practice driving range.
Game-Improvement Plan: minigames, numeric display, and many other advanced features.
Play & Improve Plan: all features of other plans plus full integration with WGT (World Golf Tour).
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