7 Best Golf Simulators Under $5000 in 2024 [Tested By Experts]
- Too busy to read? Here is our best golf simulator under $5000
FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 Home Golf Simulator offers an unbeatable combination of technology, connectivity and high-quality gear. Choose your package online today!
At a first look, it’s impossible to find the best golf simulator. Some golf simulators have low price but also few functions. Others feature magnificent accuracy but cost pretty much the same as a car. Not to mention several devices that aren’t compatible with many items, which makes it hard to build a home golf simulator. I’ve spent over 100 hours rigorously testing and comparing the top golf simulators under $5000 on the market to bring you this detailed guide.
In Golf Yardage, I’m fully aware of that problem. That’s why I’ve consulted many experts, besides using my own experience, to test dozens of golf simulators. Here, I’m going to show you my impressions of the best golf simulators under $5 000. After all, I want them to be affordable to all golfers.
Learn how we test & score here.
These golf simulators all feature external connectivity with a PC or your phone. They are perfect for indoor golfing, but some also perform well outside. Some of them go farther and feature a detailed software with statistical data and virtual challenges. Everything you need to become one of the best golfers in your city.
TLDR: My best golf simulator under that price limit is the FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 Home Golf Simulator. I was thrilled by its technology, especially when it comes to connecting to the popular golfing platforms. And it comes with an awesome package of items. You’re going to love it.
| Golf Simulator Box | Score | Best for | Max. price |
| 1. FlightScope Mevo+ | 9.1 | Tech enthusiasts and serious golfers | $4829.00 |
| 2. Skytrak PerfectBay | 8.6 | Balanced quality and budget | $4849.00 |
| 3. Optishot 2 Box 2 | 7.7 | Beginners and family fun | $1600.00 |
| 4.Garmin Approach R10 | 8.8 | Casual golfers with space constraints. | $5399.00 |
| 5.Skytrak Training | 8.1 | Simple, budget-friendly setups | $3950.00 |
| 6.Optishot 2 Box 3 | 7.4 | Affordable, casual multiplayer use | $3600.00 |
| 7.Garmin Approach R10 | 8.5 | Beginners needing full protection | $4405.00 |
Short on time? These are the top 5 golf simulators under $5000:
1. FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 Home Golf Simulator Package
High technology, great compatibility with other platforms (such as E6 Connect), and a selection of awesome golfing gear like a protective net and a projector with its screen. It offers many options to choose, and you’ll benefit from taking your time with them.
$4,829 from Topshelfgolf8.5Software Features & Game Options
9.0Ease of Setup & Use
9.0Build Quality & Durability
9.0Graphics & Visual Experience
8.5Customer Support & Warranty
9.0Portability & Space Requirements
9.5Connectivity & Tech Integration
- Best feature: excellent use of technology, especially to connect with popular platforms.
- Worst feature: the best upgrades can easily drive this simulator setup above $5000.
- Unique feature: simply the best to use on its own and to connect with other services.
If you prefer the Mevo Plus, that’s the simulator setup for you. It is based on radars, rather than cameras, so it’s expected to have advantages compared with the Skytrak.
I’ve played with this home golf simulator package myself, so I know it’s awesome. FlightScope makes a great app that offers many functions whether for performance analysis or casual fun. You’ll also enjoy the fact that the whole simulator setup is compact and easy to move around.
What is included?High connectivity for tech-savvy golfers
The simulator package comes with its own app, which has a lot of functions for all purposes. Besides, it’s compatible with E6 Connect – the free version will only give you access to limited resources, though.
Like its competitors, it offers some options of upgrades. The iPad, for example, provides a much cheaper screen setup than the gaming laptop. The launch monitor’s app also comes with free or paid versions.
You should spring for the premium ball net. The GoSports brings automatic ball return and uses a durable steel frame that helps it resist ball impacts of up to 225 mph. But it comes at an extra price, of course.
This simulator setup is compatible with many types of software. Besides the app that comes with the launch monitor, the simulator package is compatible with E6 Connect, FS Golf, FS Skills, and Golf Club 2019.
FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 Golf Simulator – good and bad for…
You may also like to know that this golf simulator setup is highly portable. In other words, it’ll be easy for you to move everything indoors or out according to how you want to practice. The fact that it doesn’t use cameras helps it stay precise regardless of the lighting conditions during your putting session.
2. SkyTrak PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package
Simply a favorite on the golfing market. Awesome monitor and subscription plan, quality projection, and many useful practice items. Skytrak has been a reference in the market for many reasons, and I second that. This package is made to measure for its potential.
$4849.00 from Topshelfgolf8.5Software Features & Game Options
8.0Ease of Setup & Use
8.5Build Quality & Durability
8.5Graphics & Visual Experience
8.0Customer Support & Warranty
8.0Portability & Space Requirements
9.0Connectivity & Tech Integration
- Best feature: this simulator setup is simply an awesome counterpart to the Skytrak monitor.
- Worst feature: the Skytrak may be awesome, but it’s about to turn ten years old and it shows.
- Unique feature: the included enclosure gear will get you a safe and roomy practice area.
Skytrak launch monitor is a reference among golf simulators under 5000 dollars. It offers many functions, is easy to use, and has high precision at a low price.
In my experience, the Skytrak lives up to that hype. I’ve used it with many golf clubs without any issues. Besides that, it shows so many parameters that you’ll quickly learn everything you need about your golf swing. The screen projection only makes the whole activity even more pleasant for the golfer.
What is included?The SkyTrak PerfectBay Golf Simulator comes with:
Versatile golf simulator with many options
The PerfectBay enclosure is made in the USA and has a triple-layer impact screen that has proved itself quite durable. The 4:3 screen doesn’t sag, dampens noise, and resists golf ball speeds up to 250 mph.
You can upgrade the PerfectBay enclosure with its Plus or Wide versions. They both offer extended areas, compared to the regular version, and feature the same durability. Great additions to your golf simulator.
Skytrak offers a Game Improvement plan. In short, it’s a paid version of its app where you can get access to many exclusive parameters of your golf performance. It’s one of the most detailed in its segment.
You can replace the Pro Turf mat with a Fiberbuilt. Take a look at the article where we compare multiple hitting mats. Some of them are much better than the others, which is essential for your golfing practice.
SkyTrak PerfectBay Golf Simulator – good and bad for…
A big advantage of this home golf simulator is its high compatibility. You have many options of products to add, so it’s easy to keep everything within your budget. For example, you can exchange the projector for a simpler one or even none if you need. In this case, you’d use a phone or PC screen instead of the projector.
3. OptiShot 2 Golf-In-A-Box 2 Simulator Package
Not the best from a technical point of view, I’ll admit it. The package has no projector and even the protective nets are fairly simple. But its low price is impossible to resist, especially for beginner golfers. I found many ways to improve my practice using this setup.
1.600$ from Topshelfgolf7.0Software Features & Game Options
9.0Ease of Setup & Use
7.5Build Quality & Durability
7.0Graphics & Visual Experience
7.5Customer Support & Warranty
9.5Portability & Space Requirements
7.0Connectivity & Tech Integration
- Best feature: This golf simulator has the potential to be the cheapest one in the whole list.
- Worst feature: Costing so little brings drawbacks, such as having a simple golf monitor.
- Unique feature: Still an excellent option especially if you frequently play golf with others.
Simply the best golf simulator under our price limit if you need to cut costs. It doesn’t come with the projector and you need to provide your own net, but it can be a good option still.
When we talk about golf simulators under $5000, there is a need to make concessions. That is the best golf simulator for people who know what they’re doing. And the Optishot can be awesome to the families who want to play games together. It is among the best golf simulators on the market at a low-price range.
What is included?OptiShot 2 Golf-In-A-Box 2 Simulator options
The Optishot is going to be an amazing partner for playing games. The golf simulator offers many playing modes to the single golfer or for people golfing with the family. And you can be part of an online contest.
Few simulators under $5000 offer the Net Return Pro Series. You need to get that model because of its automatic ball return. Not to mention you’ll have a net with the highest build quality on the market.
Optishot also provides hitting and turf mats. They offer good performance for the money, which allows you to increase your precision and the accuracy of your swing. You are going to be able to improve a lot.
Don’t worry, you’ll still get a lot of content for the money. You could start with this gear and move to the top-tier ones once you become more experienced. Other golf simulators are more suitable for that crowd.
OptiShot 2 Golf-In-A-Box 2 – good and bad for…
4. Garmin Approach R10 Flex Space Golf Simulator Package
Another sweetheart on the golfing market. Solid quality, precise data measurement, and a useful software. Plus lots of useful golf practice items. Now, all I ask is that you keep an eye on all those upgrades. Choosing the nicest ones will quickly increase the final price.
$5,399 from Shopindoorgolf8.5Software Features & Game Options
8.5Ease of Setup & Use
8.5Build Quality & Durability
8.5Graphics & Visual Experience
8.5Customer Support & Warranty
9.0Portability & Space Requirements
9.5Connectivity & Tech Integration
- Best feature: Excellent data measurement no matter what club or ball you practice with.
- Worst feature: The mininum distance requirements may throw off golfers with small rooms.
- Unique feature: The package brings a trial period of Garmin’s premium subscription plan.
The Garmin Approach R10 provides such good value that you can build an excellent golf simulator with all the necessary items without spending more than $5,000.
I’ve tried Garmin’s launch monitor, so can definitely attest its quality. I’ve played with multiple golf clubs and a variety of balls, and it showed me several parameters with top precision. Like other simulators sold on online stores, this setup uses items from top manufacturers and ensures full compatibility among them.
What is included?The Garmin Approach R10 Flex Space Simulator Package comes with:
Perfect golf simulator for casual players
The Garmin R10 is a jack of all trades. It has a tripod mount placed 6 to 8 feet behind the ball. You can use it both indoors and out, and it measures over 10 parameters of your swing.
Another interesting advantage is that this home simulator setup allows you to use services such as E6 CONNECT, Awesome Golf, The Golf Club 2019, and Home Tee Hero.
The HomeCourse ProScreen 180, included in the package, has sidewalls made of ballistic material. Their arms can be optionally extended to form an ultra-wide 16:9 projectable area.
The retractable screen’s motor runs on a chargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts for months at a time, and can be controlled with an included wireless remote.
Garmin Approach R10 Flex Space – good and bad for…
5. SkyTrak Golf Simulator Training Package
The Skytrak is so good at what it does that you can have a wonderful experience even when using it with a low-budget gear kit. Compared with that other one, this golf simulator offers a raw experience that could be seen as a challenge for experienced golfers.
$3,950 from Shopindoorgolf8.0Software Features & Game Options
8.0Ease of Setup & Use
8.0Build Quality & Durability
7.5Graphics & Visual Experience
7.5Customer Support & Warranty
8.5Portability & Space Requirements
8.5Connectivity & Tech Integration
- Best feature: Your chance to obtain the Skytrak while paying less than in other golf simulators.
- Worst feature: Lacking a projector and its screen surely takes a toll on your golfing experience.
- Unique feature: Experienced golfers may have a wonderful time playing in this environment.
We all know the Skytrak launch monitor and its qualities. This package is an expert solution so you can have a Skytrak and stay in the price range of simulators under $5000.
In short, you will let go of the projector and the floor mount and screen. Instead, you are going to be able to play with an impact net with side barriers, and SIGPRO’s high-quality turf mat and hitting mat.
What is included?For a person that plays indoors, this is the best way to play golf in a box. The golf simulator package uses a SIGPRO net with side barriers. And it includes sandbags to keep everything in place for your golf practice.
The Skytrak launch monitor expands its qualities with that plan. Play & Improve brings many extra tools to track your progress and show you how you can be even better. It is a great option for the average golfer.
You are also going to get high-quality turf and hitting mats. SIGPRO produces the best golf gear, so you can rest assured you’ll get a great performance on the mats. And you’ll swing with the precision of a pro.
To be a golf simulator under $5000, you are going to miss the projector. However, you can always hook up other screens for your practice, like a laptop or a tablet. You’ll just need to get creative and flexible.
SkyTrak Golf Simulator – good and bad for…
This is the best golf simulator in the price range we set if you want something simple for the money. You will get a little of everything and the feeling that you can upgrade for better gear once you have a higher experience. If you are a beginner, it can be hard to have a better option of launch monitor and gear.
SkyTrak Golf Simulator Training Package
6. OptiShot 2 Golf-In-A-Box 3 Simulator Package
The simple yet easy-to-use OptiShot 2 golf simulator is a great value for beginners on a budget. This complete package includes the basics like net, screen, projector, mat and more for casual home use. While it lacks some advanced features, its fun multiplayer modes guarantee fun. For those on a budget looking for a functional simulator with a focus on fundamentals and casual play, the OptiShot 2 is the right choice.
$3,600 from Shopindoorgolf7.0Software Features & Game Options
9.0Ease of Setup & Use
7.0Build Quality & Durability
6.5Graphics & Visual Experience
7.0Customer Support & Warranty
9.5Portability & Space Requirements
7.0Connectivity & Tech Integration
- Best feature: Awesome value for how much it costs even compared to the Skytrak packages.
- Worst feature: It is a fairly simple golf monitor, so experienced golfers probably won’t like it.
- Unique feature: Many game modes for single golfers and multiplayer guarantee lots of fun.
If you have a limited budget, this is your golf simulator. It features a launch monitor, a protective net, a projector screen, and a projector. What else could you need?
The Optishot launch monitor is quite simple, but that’s not a problem. In fact, that makes it easy to use especially if you have no time to lose. If you want to play golf without any frills, and the money you have matches that intention, this is one of the best golf simulators under our price limit of $5000.
What is included?One of the top golf simulators under $5,000
The OptiShot launch monitor uses an infrared system to monitor your swing. I’ve tried it with a lot of golf clubs, and several different balls, and had no problem at all. It’s quite competent for typical use scenarios.
The built-in software along brings a lot of extra fun. There are many virtual games whether for one golfer or a group, and even some online tournaments. It can be a great source of motivation for your practice.
The screen is attached with Velcro for easy removal. You’ll be able to quickly remove it in the case that you want to play elsewhere. By doing so, you can enjoy the Net Return Pro Series’ automatic ball return.
You won’t get a top-tier projector, but it does the job. It is capable of 1024 x 768 pixels of resolution and delivers a clear image on the included screen. It’s all you need for a golf simulator under our price limit.
OptiShot 2 Golf-In-A-Box 3 – good and bad for…
This is the best golf simulator in the price range we set if you want something simple for the money. You will get a little of everything and the feeling that you can upgrade for better gear once you have a higher experience. If you are a beginner, it can be hard to have a better option of launch monitor and gear.
7. Garmin Approach R10 Bronze Golf Simulator
The Garmin Approach R10 Bronze package includes SIGPRO side netting to protect against errant shots, making it ideal for beginners. With indoor/outdoor versatility, this complete simulator includes a launch monitor, net, mats, projector and more. Garmin’s robust software may confuse some, but it’s perfect for beginners seeking full protection and versatility at a modest price. It may be too robust for experienced golfers.
$4,405 from Shopindoorgolf8.0Software Features & Game Options
8.5Ease of Setup & Use
8.0Build Quality & Durability
8.0Graphics & Visual Experience
8.0Customer Support & Warranty
9.0Portability & Space Requirements
9.0Connectivity & Tech Integration
- Best feature: Compared to the other Garmin package, this one adds SIGPRO protective netting.
- Worst feature: Garmin’s built-in software brings so many functions that it may be hard to use.
- Unique feature: You can use this golf simulation package to play indoors and out without issues.
SIGPRO side barriers are the main difference of this simulator package compared to the other one shown here that uses the Garmin Approach R10 launch monitor.
The picture shows it brings side barriers and I tell you they’re great. They have a durable aluminum frame with a snap-button collapsible system. The system is designed to work with SIG’s own screen which hangs from a crossbar at the top. The nets withstand impacts of up to 225 mph.
What is included?Complete golf simulation under 5000 dollars
The simulator package brings a Garmin Golf Membership trial that gives you access to several helpful golfing functions such as cloud storage of your video footage, green contour data, and Home Tee Hero.
The SIGPRO system that differentiates this simulator setup is highly competent. The manufacturer has a lot of protective items and they’re all compatible with one another, so you can practice your swing in peace.
You’ll get a turf mat that is long, yet portable. It features automatic ball return, which is highly convenient especially to practice during an entire day. And you can simply roll it back whenever you want to move it.
This golf simulator setup is one of the best under 5000 dollars. You get a high-quality launch monitor, a full protective system, and even a projector screen. Many golfers like it because of its irresistible value.
Garmin Approach R10 Bronze – good and bad for…
If you want great value for a golf simulator, this is the ideal option. You are going to be surprised because this is a reference on the market. It has a lot of functions and there are many items in any online store’s package. You will get everything you need for a modest price that allows you to pick some upgrades too.
Best Golf Simulators under $5,000 – Quick comparison
Phew! So many best golf simulators under our price limit, right? I know it can be hard to analyze all those products and compare their features to eventually make a decision. And we’re talking about only seven.
But I’m here to make things easier for you. I’ve compiled basic information about all those simulator kits on the table below, so you can get a quick comparative overview. Then, we’ll move to the conclusions I drew.
| Simulator name | Projector? | Protective nets? | Hitting mats? | Software? | Hardware? |
| 1.FlightScope Mevo+ | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| 2.SkyTrak PerfectBay | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| 3.OptiShot Golf-In-A-Box 2 | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| 4.Garmin R10 Flex Space | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| 5.SkyTrak Training | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| 6.OptiShot Golf-In-A-Box 3 | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| 7.Garmin R10 Bronze | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Now, keep in mind that I filled this table at the time I wrote this article. Simulator bundles like those ones depend on where you are going to buy and the available stock of that store. In other words, you should take your time to browse their offerings. That’s the surest way to land a good deal on your home simulator.
What makes golf simulators under $5000?
- The launch monitor accounts for a lot. It must make accurate measurements, offer useful functions, and be easy to use. Of course, we’re looking for the best balance on the requirements named here.
- The included gear is also important, of course. As you could see, some best golf simulators are more appropriate for beginners than pros. That comes mostly from the differences in their included items.
- Flexibility, more than size, matters. The more space you can use to install golf simulators, the better. The real quality here is when the devices allow you to rearrange them to your space availability.
- Value, more than price. None of those golf simulators under $5000 is cheap, so we’re not aiming to find the lowest price. We praise simulators under $5000 that offer the most content for the money.
- Last, but not least, add-ons are important. Subscription trials are a good example of that. They show you for free all the functions you can have. This way, you’ll be able to decide whether to pay for them.
Best Golf Simulators – our conclusion
I aimed to show you golf simulators with slightly different purposes. I did that because I believe that there isn’t one single perfect product. Each one has its own pros and cons, and that variety makes each of them suitable to a different customer profile. This is beautiful, rather than a problem.
For example, I would love the FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 because of its intensive technology use. But that’s me, an experienced golfer who likes to learn how to use the latest gadgets. My other top pick would be the SkyTrak PerfectBay because it’s tried and true. You cannot go wrong with it, no matter what golfer you are.
With this guide, I hope to have shown you this variety. In my opinion, that’s the best way to choose among the best golf simulators under our price limit. I prefer some of them over the others, sure, but I beg you to give all of them a chance. You’re the one who will find the perfect one for yourself.
The best golf simulators under $5000 depend on your budget, skill level, space, and preferences. Some of the top-rated golf simulators under $5000 are:
FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 Home Golf Simulator Package: This is the best option for tech-savvy golfers who want to connect with popular platforms like E6 Connect and FS Golf. It comes with a radar-based launch monitor, a protective net, a projector, and a screen.
SkyTrak PerfectBay Golf Simulator Package: This is the best option for golfers who want a reliable and accurate launch monitor with a lot of features. It comes with a camera-based launch monitor, a durable enclosure, a projector, and a screen.
OptiShot 2 Golf-In-A-Box 2 Simulator Package: This is the best option for golfers on a tight budget who want a simple and fun simulator. It comes with an infrared-based launch monitor, a net, a mat, and a software with many game modes.
The best golf simulator training packages are those that offer detailed feedback, analysis, and improvement tips for your golf swing. Some of the best golf simulator training packages are:
SkyTrak Golf Simulator Training Package: This package includes the SkyTrak launch monitor, which measures over 10 parameters of your swing, and the Game Improvement plan, which gives you access to exclusive data, challenges, and courses.
Garmin Approach R10 Flex Space Golf Simulator Package: This package includes the Garmin R10 launch monitor, which measures over 10 parameters of your swing, and the Garmin Golf Membership trial, which gives you access to cloud storage, green contour data, and Home Tee Hero.
FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 Home Golf Simulator Package: This package includes the FlightScope Mevo+ launch monitor, which measures over 15 parameters of your swing, and the FlightScope app, which gives you access to performance analysis, skills challenges, and video feedback.
Cheap golf simulators can be worth it if you have realistic expectations and goals. Cheap golf simulators may not offer the same accuracy, features, or quality as more expensive ones, but they can still provide a lot of fun and practice. Cheap golf simulators can be a good way to introduce yourself to the world of virtual golf, test your skills, and enjoy some games with friends or family. However, if you are serious about improving your golf game, you may want to invest in a more advanced and reliable golf simulator.
Garmin R10 is a good simulator for golfers who want a versatile and portable launch monitor that can be used indoors and outdoors. Garmin R10 uses a high-speed camera to capture your swing and ball flight, and provides over 10 parameters of data. It also has a built-in software that offers a variety of courses, games, and modes. Garmin R10 is compatible with other platforms such as E6 Connect, Awesome Golf, The Golf Club 2019, and Home Tee Hero. Garmin R10 is a good simulator for golfers who want to have fun and improve their game.