Most great golf simulator setups for your home will cost about $5000 or more. By the time you purchase all the pieces of the package, it can easily eat up your entire golf budget for the year.
However, we looked and tested these three less expensive golf simulators to give you a few options that are still worth buying.
Before you tell us there are even cheaper models out there, remember these are the three that we are saying are “still worth buying.”
OptiShot Orbit Series Golf In A Box 1
The OptiShot Orbit Series golf in a box is a basic golf simulator package that eliminates a lot of the fluff and just gives you a chance to play golf at home for a fair price.
This would be one for casual golfers looking to have fun playing games on the range or practicing at a course they have not played.
With the OptiShot 2 Golf in a Box, you get an impact net, a hitting mat, and access to 20 golf courses.
The simulator will measure your club speed, ball speed, smash factor, launch direction, launch angle, backspin, carry distance, and total distance.
If you are going to the PGA Tour and plan on using this thing day and night, it’s not enough.
It does not have putting or chipping capability, but for a rainy day or a quick round of golf before work, you’ll like this package.
Pros
- Comes with everything for a fair price
- Easy to set up
- Comes with 2 ranges and 15 courses
Cons
- Data is not incredibly accurate
- Some compatibility issues
- No putting or chipping, no shot shape
SwingLogic SLX MicroSim Home Golf Simulator
The SwingLogic SLX MicroSim Home golf simulator is another option made for beginners or those looking for a budget-friendly simulator.
The biggest issue with the SwingLogic is that you need to use the SwingLogic swing stick to get data.
You can also place the sensor on your club, but if you do this, you must hit it with foam golf balls.
Remember, even though this sounds like quite a few limitations, this unit is priced at about a quarter of the Optishot, so it’s truly cheap.
The SwingLogix uses E6 Connect software, which is compatible with iOS and PC. It has realistic graphics, and all data is measured based on impact position.
I would consider this more of a game and a fun thing to do while hanging out at home than a true golf game-changer.
Pros
- E6 Connect software is usually quite good
- Graphics are clear
- Very affordable
Cons
- Swing stick data is more accurate than club
- Have to use foam golf balls
- Not built for advanced practice and play
SkyTrak Practice Golf Simulator
The SkyTrak takes the cost up a notch, and for this one, you’ll really have to make sure you are ready to make the investment.
However, when you look at the accuracy of the data and quality of the experience, it’s not a bad option to consider.
Most SkyTrak packages include the launch monitor, driving range software, and the Play & Improve software package. You can add additional options if necessary.
SkyTrack is very easy to transport, can work both indoors and outdoors and really gives you more of that accuracy you might need if your goal is to become a better player.
Adding the net and mat is an additional expense but you can pick and choose options that fit the needs of your space.
I would say to seriously consider this one if you plan on making a permanent setup in your home for your golf practice.
It’s still considered a “cheaper” setup compared to TrackMan, Foresight, or Uneekor, but it does rival them with some of the accuracy.
Pros
- Good mix of affordability and functionality
- Tracks ball speed, launch angle, backspin, and more
- Practice driving range software is great
Cons
- Not technically “cheap” for everyone’s budget, just cheap compared to other options
- We still need to purchase the mat, net, etc.
Final Thoughts
Be careful purchasing a cheap golf simulator. Sometimes, you invest a few hundred or $1000 and end up with something that doesn’t really work out.
This is one of those things that is a “want” for most people and not a “need.”
Therefore, wait until you can get one that suits the needs of your game and will make your experience while using it much more entertaining.
You won’t enjoy a round of golf on a simulator that isn’t accurate.
