Best Golf Simulator (2021)

Whether you are stuck at home or simply unable to get out on the green, you should be able to play golf when you are at home. In order to do this well, you will need the best golf simulator on the market. But, what makes a good golf simulator?

You will want a simulator that is affordable, but is able to give you the most realistic experience possible. All simulators come with a huge array of features, whether it is an HDMI projector or a choice hitting mat. Ideally, you should find a golf simulator that suits all of your needs to help you master your golfing skills.

Regardless of your golfing ability, a good golf simulator will be able to work on your skills, fine-tuning them so that when you make it back on the green, you will be sharper than ever. Here’s what you need to know about buying a home golf simulator.

10 Best Golf Simulators - Home & Indoor Golf Simulators

1. SkyTrak Compact Golf Simulator Package

Best Golf Simulator (Editor's Choice)

Our choice for the best golf simulator is the SkyTrak Compact Golf Simulator Package. This similar really has everything that you might want from your golf simulator, including being compact enough to not take up too much room in your home.

Features

The golf simulator includes a lot of features, including the Game Improvement Plan, which will allow you to practice your game on a virtual driving range in order to see how accurate your shots really are. Having the ability to see the data in real-time means that you will be able to adjust your strokes as need be right away.

The game improvement features will provide you with all of the data that you need, including the distance, ball speed, back spin, side spin, launch angle, flight path, and many other pieces of information.

The SkyTrak connects to your devices wirelessly so you will be able to take your launch monitor anywhere within your house without trouble. Because it is a compact unit, you do not need to worry about it taking up the entirety of your living space. There is a ceiling mount included as well, however, so you will be better off choosing a dedicated location for your golf simulator. Even if the projected is mounted on the ceiling, the rest of the golf simulator will break down without any trouble so you can put it away.

Specifications

The recommended room dimensions for the SkyTrak Compact simulator is a room that is 9 feet tall, 10 feet wide, and 12 feet deep. The software is compatible with both PC and iPad as well, so you should be able to get it working with little trouble.

What’s Included In The Package

The package itself comes with a lot of great equipment, including:

• 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
• Game improvement software
• SkyTrak launch monitor and protective case

SkyTrak Compact Golf Simulator Pros

• Easily portable
• Easy to use
• Shot and ball data for game improvement
• High-speed photometric technology
• Comes in a package
  

2. TruGolf Vista 12 Golf Simulator w/E6 Connect

High Performance

If you are looking for a high performance indoor golf simulator, then we recommend the TruGolf Vista 12. This is a high-end golf simulator that is best for golfers who are serious about working on their skills off the green.

Features

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. It has a built-in practice range as well as 18 holes to work with.

Additionally, with the Vista 12, you can 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 physically can’t be out there.

The Vista 12 also has a tension system in place to provide you with a crease-free picture on your wide impact screen. That will really benefit your accuracy as well as your game.

Specifications

The required space for the TruGolf Vista 12 is 15 feet wide by 20 feet deep by 10 feet high. It weighs 300 pounds, so it is not exactly easy to carry, though the setup is still fairly simple. The impact screen is 165” and you get a 21” touch screen display.

What’s Included In The Package

There is a lot to take in with this package, including:

• 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

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. It is up to you to decide which the right package is for you.

TruGolf Vista 12 Golf Simulator Pros

• Play prestigious golf courses virtually
• Easily portable
• Revolutionary tension system
• Larger viewing screen
• Brilliant picture

3. OptiShot 2 Golf In A Box Simulator Package

Budget Friendly

The OptiShot 2 Golf in a Box Simulator is the best golf simulator that you can get on a budget. This golf simulator includes a library of world-class gold courses that is continually growing as well as lot more features that will not disappoint you.

Features

The OptiShot 2 comes with eight different types of play with this simulator, including the following:

• Stroke Play
• Better Ball
• Match Play
• Best Ball
• Stableford
• Skins
• Alternate Shot
• Custom Game Lengths

The 15 courses that come with it will allow you to try out different environments and see courses that you might not have seen in person. Additionally, the OptiShot 2 comes with PinPoint Practice which works to track and record your progress, helping to guide you toward better overall gameplay.

Since there are six different target greens to work with, you will be able to really master your shot accuracy. There is also a precision ring and accuracy grid that will really narrow down your shot to get you used to the feeling of an accurate shot that will easily transfer when you are on the green.

Specifications

The software that you get from the OptiShot 2 is compatible with both Windows and Mac. The courses that come are included have been meticulously modeled after real world-renowned country clubs and world-class golf courses as well as several types of games to choose from.

Additionally, you will get both play mode and practice mode. One lets you master your shot while the other lets you get out on the green virtually, getting your golf game in, even if you can’t be there in person.

What’s Included In The Package

Even if this is the budget friendly option, there is high quality elements included in the package, including:

• OptiShot 3DD golf software by Dancin’ Dogg
• Infrared optical golf simulator swing pad
• OptiShot practice net
• OptiShot hitting mat
• 2 adjustable tuber tees
• 2 foam practice balls
• USB cable

OptiShot 2 Golf In A Box Simulator Pros

• More affordable
• Updates regularly with new courses
• Modeled after real courses
• Plugs into your computer’s USB port
• Compatible with either Mac or PC

4. SkyTrak Launch Monitor & Golf Simulator Software

Launch Monitor

When it comes to looking at a launch monitor, we recommend the SkyTrak launch monitor. This is a great brand for home golf simulators, so it should not come as a surprise that the monitor itself is a reliable choice.

Features

The most important thing to remember about the SkyTrak launch monitor is that it is not just a launch monitor. It is actually a golf simulator as well. It is used by both professional golfers and amateur golfers alike to practice their skills.

The software includes a practice range as well as the option to monitor your distance. The system comes with a lot of play or practice options to help you really hone in on the skills that you are working to master.

SkyTrak’s flight model uses advanced algorithms in order to produce an impeccable ball flight simulation. It will give you the best data on your shot possible, including:

• Total distance
• Carry distance
• Club Head speed
• Launch angle
• Side spin
• Flight path
• Roll distance
• Offline Yardage
• Angle of descent
• Ball speed
• Back spin

All of these features will really let you work on your skills.

Specifications

Since this is just the monitor, there are is not the concern for room that you get from other golf simulators. Just make sure there is clearance to get a proper swing in without destroying your house. It also works with all systems, whether you have an Apple device, PC, or even an Android.

What’s Included In The Package

There are a few things that are included with the SkyTrak launch monitor.

• Launch monitor
• USB cable
• SkyTrak companion app
• 3D practice range with shot tracer
• Ball performance data
• Shot Replay

There are two other plans that you can choose from for this system that cost more, but also provide you with more features. The Game Improvement Plan also as a protective case and a lot more data collection options.

The Tee Off Plan goes even further to provide you with full course play on 11 world-class courses.

SkyTrak Launch Monitor Pros

• 3D practice range
• Ball performance data
• Shot replay
• Also a golf simulator
• Play championship courses

5. GC2 SwingBay Golf Simulator Package + FSX

Another simulator that you should look at is the GC2 SwingBay. This is an excellent package that has a few options to choose from.

Features

Some of the features that you get from the GC2 launch monitor include practice and play options, so you can golf anywhere as if you are really out on a course. This launch monitor can also be used outside, so you are not just stuck indoors.

This can be really nice, depending on the season and where you live. In summer, being able to work on your strokes outside at home will give you as close to the real thing as you can get.

When inside, the GC2 can provide you with accurate measurements of the ball’s characteristics upon impact. The monitor itself is only 4 pounds, so it is really easy to move around where you need it. It can fit in your suitcase or golf bag, making it really portable.

This monitor is powered by the world’s most-trusted launch monitor technology, delivering powerful data analysis and visualization features that really are custom-made for you, as if you really had a golf instructor or a professional club fitter helping you out with advice.

The GC2 is intuitive and can provide fully-illustrated depiction of your ball’s flight as well as the data on your club head, so you can adjust as needed.

Specifications

The minimum space requirement for this golf simulator is that you need 9 feet in height, 12 feet in width and 16 feet in depth. You should still double check that you are not going to hit anything around you when you take a swing, so give yourself plenty of room to work with.

What’s Included In The Package

In the SwingBay simulator package, you get the following:

• Landing pad turf
• Choice of hitting mat
• SwingBay simulator screen and enclosure
• 25’ 1080p HDMI cable
• Optoma 1080p HD short throw projector
• Certified launch monitor
• FSX golf simulation software
• Ceiling projector mount

GC2 SwingBay Golf Simulator Pros

• Realistic simulator setup
• Top-level accuracy
• Can be used outdoors
• Trusted by golf professionals
• Comes with everything you need

6. OptiShot 2 Golf In A Box Pro Simulator Package

Similar to the OptiShot2 Golf in a Box package, the Pro version has a lot of great things to offer players who are looking for golf at home. It will give you as close to a real experience as possible.

Features

The features for this home golf simulator include 16 precisely-tuned, high-speed infrared sensors that can be calibrated to your own clubs. That means that you can still use your own, favourite clubs, even when you are practicing at home. The software includes 15 standard golf courses as well as many different types of games that you can play around with.

The swing and ball shot accuracy creates a more virtual experience that can give you as close to the real thing as possible. The software will also update when new courses are available, allowing its library to expand and for you to get new courses to try out.

Specifications

When it comes to installing the HomeCourse, you can really turn just about any space in your home golf space. You will need 8 feet in height, 10 feet in width and 8 feet in depth to have enough room to play.

The HomeCourse Pro Screen has to be installed at about 8 feet from the floor in order to have it work effectively. You will also want a little slack so that the ball is able to roll back to you after you take your shot.

It works with both Windows and Mac computers as well. You will need to supply your own HDMI cable.

What’s Included In The Package

You will see a few similarities between what comes with the OptiShot 2 Pro and the original OptiShot 2.

• HomeCourse Pro retractable screen enclosure
• Optoma X305ST short throw XGA projector
• OptiShot 2 hitting mat
• Adjustable rubber tees
• Two foam practice balls
• 10’ USB cable

There are a few add-ons you could pay for as well if you are looking to upgrade the system even further.

OptiShot 2 Golf In A Box Pro Pros

• You can use your own clubs
• Retractable screen
• High-definition projector
• Play with real golf balls
• Track and analyze your swing

7. SkyTrak Retractable Golf Simulator Package

Great Value

Another package that you should look at is the SkyTrak Retractable Golf Simulator Package. With the way that the netting is set up with this indoor golf simulator, you can really tune out the world around you and get some real practice in.

Features

You will be happy with any of the features that come with the SkyTrak Retractable system. To begin with, the golf 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 completely new level. These include:

• 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. 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 will not have to do anything yourself.

The landing pad will give you a good amount of protection for the home golf simulator bay while keeping the balls away from your flooring.

Specifications

The minimum space requirements for the SkyTrak Retractable simulator are a ceiling that is 8 feet, 6 inches tall and a room that is 10 feet, 6 inches wide and 10 feet deep. You should test it out first by taking a slow back swing in your driver to make sure that there is nothing in the way of being hit.

What’s Included In The Package

You will get a lot with this simulator package, including:

• 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 and protective case

All of these features will ensure that you can get setup for a realistic game, right in your very own home.

SkyTrak Retractable Golf Simulator Pros

• Screen retracts
• Excellent game improvement features
• Photometric technology for shot accuracy
• Wireless connection with PC or tablets
• User friendly

8. SkyTrak SwingBay Golf Simulator Package

Another package that should not be forgotten is the SkyTrak SwingBay package. This is more of a mid-range package that should give you everything that you need to play golf at home.

Features

The SwingBay simulator package includes 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 also 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.

The projector screen is heavy-duty, so it will not breakdown on you. It is really built to last. It comes with a high definition display that will work perfectly with your high definition projector, giving you an entirely realistic feeling of being on a golf course without being there.

This package will let you choose between a 5 x 5 hitting mat or a 9x4 hitting mat, which will have an added upgrade fee tacked on.

Specifications

The minimum space requirements for the SkyTrak SwingBay is that your space needs to be at least 9 feet high, 12 feet wide, and 16 feet deep.

You will notice that this simulator takes up a little bit more room than some of the other indoor golf simulators that we have looked at. As always, gently swing your club to make sure that you will be able to swing it in the space that you have selected or the simulator might not work out for you.

It will also work with your PC or any tablet as well.

What’s Included In The Package

In the SwingBay package, you will get the following:

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

All of these items should keep you playing without any trouble.

SkyTrak SwingBay Golf Simulator Pros

• Uses high-speed photometric technology
• Comparable with professional launch monitors
• Fun gameplay features
• Easy to use
• Get live accurate data from each shot

9. SkyTrak SIG10 Golf Simulator

Another simulator from SkyTrak, the SIG10 is a little bit different than the other SkyTraks that we have looked at so far. It has a lot of offer and is a nice, mid-price range home golf simulator.

Features

The best features that you get from the SIG10 have to do with the software itself. The system allows full golf course play on 12 famous WFT golf courses. That way, even if you can’t travel to these places yourself, you can still have a chance to really experience them.

The software also has 3D driving range technology with a shot tracer. This should be able to give you an accurate report about how well you are really doing.

In addition to all of the great software features, the physical features are also great. There is an enclosure that allows you to project an image onto it. The projector should be able to gill up the entire screen in HDMI, giving you as close of a real experience as possible.

Specifications

The minimum space requirements for the SIG10 are a room with 9 foot ceilings that is 12 feet wide and 16 feet long. That is going to be a little bit bigger than a lot of the other simulators that we have looked at, so make sure that you have adequate space ahead of time.

Before buying a golf simulator of this size, give your driver a few swings to make sure you have the right clearance.

This system will also work with PCs and tablets alike, so you should not have any trouble getting it set up.

What’s Included In The Package

With the SIG10 simulator, you will get the following in the package:

• SkyTrak golf launch monitor
• Metal protective case
• Play & Improve software
• Side barrier netting
• Landing pad turf
• Choice of hitting mat
• Projector shield floor mount enclosure
• 25 foot HDMI cable and HDMI to lightning cable
• Micro-USB charging cable

The cost does go up with you aim for some of the added on features, like the larger hitting mats.

SkyTrak SIG10 Golf Simulator Pros

• Real-time visual feedback
• Ball performance data
• Direct to screen output
• Full screen simulation experience
• Complete package

10. TruGolf Vista 10 Golf Simulator with E6 Connect

The final simulator that we are going to look at as one of the best indoor golf simulators that you can buy is the TruGolf Vista 10. This is a higher-end golf simulator, which means that it offers a few more features than you will find with some of the other golf simulators on the market.

Features

One of the best features that you get from the Vista 10 simulator is that there is a matte-box design. The matte-box prevents ambient light from getting into your setup, so you will not have to worry about whether your room is too bright to be able to see the screen clearly.

This system also has TruTrack2, which is a set of three sensors that work to track your clubs at every mood. The mat is also realistic, so you get a good feeling that you are out on the green, even when you cannot be. The design is intended to be ergonomic as well, so you will not get any unnecessary hand injuries as you practice.

Specifications

The specification for the Vista 10 is that you need a room that is 8 feet high, 10 feet wide and 15 feet deep. The system itself weighs 200 pounds, so it is not easily portable from place to place. It does have a 21” touch screen display as well as a 136” impact screen to help you really get an accurate idea of where your ball will go on a real course.

Like the others, it will work well with any of the major device manufacturers, from Apple to Android.

What’s Included In The Package

There is a lot of great things included with the Vista 10, including:

• HD short throw projector
• TruGolf Level 1 computer
• 21” touch screen monitor
• TruTrack 2 tracking system
• Deluxe fairway turf

There are some other features that you can get as well, so long as you are willing to pay a little more to get them. These extras include side nets, audio speaker, and a storage duffel bag.

TruGolf Vista 10 Golf Simulator Pros

• Advanced software
• Ambient light cancelling matte-box
• Stunning video clarity
• Crease-free screen
• Lightweight

Factors To Consider When Choosing The Best Home Golf Simulator

Golf Simulator Dimensions

The dimensions of the home golf simulator matter a lot. If you buy a simulator that is smaller and easier to fold up, it can work in any room that has the space.

Unfortunately, sometimes the compact simulators are simply too small for the game that you had in mind and you need a larger one. The simulators that are larger definitely take up a lot of space, so you will need to confidently measure your room and compare it to the simulator you are considering. Make sure you give your club a few swings too so you can be sure there is enough room.

Portability

What do we mean by portability? The question really is can you move the screen or is it stuck in one place. A mounted projector will not be easy to move of course, but you need to be able to move the screen out of the room in order to regain any lost space that might have lost when the simulator was completely up and running.

You do not want a simulator mounted in your room forever. It is much better to have a simulator that can be taken down when you need it to be.

Software & Accuracy

The software can be one of the most important things about the product. You really need to have software that is completely accurate when it comes to your shot. Look at the accuracy of the simulator before you commit, because you need to be able to improve your game. If the software cannot provide that level of data, it simply isn’t good enough.

Also confirm how many courses are offered with the software. You do not need to get bored after taking shots on the same virtual courses endlessly. The highest quality software will even have features updates.

Budget

While it is a dream for many to have an amazing indoor golf simulator to play with at home, it is never worth it to break your budget over buying one. The price range on them is so immense that if you look at one of the highest-end models, you might assume that all golf simulators cost that much, which isn’t true.

Think about what you really need from your golf simulator as well as what your budget is. Do not spend more than you need to in order to reach your goals, because there are quality simulators at every price point.

Quality & Warranty

Finally, you will also want to look at the quality of the machine as well as how long the warranty is good for. Your warranty should be at least a year, meaning that the manufacturers will replace it if it breaks naturally during the first year. If your simulator is well-made, however, the worry over replacement due to product error gets lower and lower.

Read all of the reviews that you can on your choice of simulator and see if it fits your needs. It’s safer to have a warranty in place, but a good simulator will not breakdown as quickly.

Final Words

When it comes down to it, there is not necessarily only one golf simulator that is the best golf simulator. So many considerations have to do with what you really need out of your golf simulator. Your needs are going to be different than other people out on the market.

Still, our choice for the best all-around golf simulator is the SkyTrak Compact Golf Simulator Package. This simulator has all of the bells and whistles that you want, but it is also a nice, slim design so that putting it away will not be challenging. It also offers a variety of modes of play to choose from.

Consider what you want from your golf simulator and you will find the best one for you. Remember to look at the accuracy of the simulator as well as your budget in order to know you are getting something that you can afford and that you will play with.