Garmin Approach R50 vs Foresight QuadMAX, GCQuad, Falcon: Can the R50 Hold Up Against the Established Best?

If you’ve followed this space, you know that we like to compare the leading golf simulator options in head-to-head matchups across multiple categories to see what reigns supreme.

And, if you’ve hung around here, you know how much we respect the undisputed accuracy of the Foresight GCQuad, the souped-up QuadMAX, and the overhead Foresight Falcon, which is the same thing as a GCQuad hanging from the ceiling. These Foresight golf launch monitors are so incredible that they’re the most popular choice of the tour pros warming up on the range.

You might also have noticed—not just here, but literally everywhere—that the Garmin Approach R50 has gotten quite a lot of attention for being so innovative, convenient, and accurate. Since its debut in late 2024, it’s undoubtedly been the most exciting golf launch monitor and simulator to come along in the last few years.

So, whadya say to a good old-fashioned showdown?

A Golf Simulator Hype Bowl, if you will?

Something’s got to give.

Now, for the sake of this shootout, we’re going to treat the three Foresight golf launch monitors as one and the same. For a few reasons, really.

For one thing, as I mentioned, a Foresight Falcon features the same shot-tracking, four-camera system as the GCQuad. So, treating them differently, for the sake of this project, doesn’t make a lot of sense.

Secondly, the QuadMAX also includes those same four cameras. So shot-tracking wise, it’s the same device as a GCQuad or Falcon. The differences are that the QuadMAX includes speed training, adds internal shot storage, and has a customizable display. We’ll try to address that in the Features section of this comparison. 

For another thing, all of our golf launch monitor comparisons to date (and there have been some classics) have featured floor-standing units going up against each other. That means that the criteria we designed includes things like portability and outdoor use, which just don’t apply to the ceiling-mounted Falcon. Once you install that baby, you ain’t transporting it anywhere. So, if we treated the Falcon separately, it would get unnecessarily penalized which wouldn’t give us our truest results.

So, it’s the Garmin Approach R50 challenger taking on the defending champ Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon. Ten categories. A 0 through 5 scoring scale.

Enough of the ground rules.

In the words of the legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer, Let’s get ready to rumble!!

Golf Simulator Price

 

 

Garmin Approach R50 = 4

Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon = 4

How else could we start an epic battle like this one than with a tie?

Now look, of course these products are totally disparate when it comes to price. The R50 costs $4,999.99. The Foresight Falcon is three times more expensive, coming in at $14,999. And it goes up from there. The GCQuad starts at $15,999, and the QuadMAX is a cool $19,999.

So, how can we call this a tie?

It’s because I look at this as the value that those respective prices deliver. It’s true that they are each expensive relative to what else is in the market. But it’s also true that each one is an absolute stud when it comes to over-delivering.

Yes, these Foresight products are pricey. But why do you think that is? It’s because nobody, not even the mighty Garmin, is making products with this kind of obsession to utmost quality and accuracy. The result of that effort are golf launch monitors so good that the pros buy them. Yes, that’s right: Foresight doesn’t give these things away to the tour pros. They purchase them.

Now let me ask you, have you seen any Garmin Approach R50’s on a PGA Tour driving range when you turn on the TV and watch the pros warm up? Because I haven’t. So, I think it’s fair to say that the Foresight golf launch monitors, while expensive, deliver value that’s commensurate with their price.

And so too does the Garmin Approach R50. Only it’s targeting a different market segment. For $4,999.99, the Garmin Approach R50 gives you a gorgeous 10-inch full-color display, built-in golf simulator capabilities, and all the ball and club data you could possibly need, all delivered with outstanding accuracy. It’s a hell of a good deal.

So, round one ends in a draw.

First Impressions Upon Unboxing

 

 

Garmin Approach R50 = 5

Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon = 4

Speaking of value, for what you’re paying for one of these Foresight units, I just somehow expect more of a first impression. I don’t know what that’s supposed to be. Fireworks? Someone jumping out of a cake? I don’t know. Something.

That’s probably not fair. Actually, I’m sure it’s not. The Quad and QuadMAX both come in the same all-black box. It’s classy. It’s cool. But it’s just… I don’t know. It’s just a little too plain overall for me to get super excited relative to the price. The Falcon actually makes a stronger first impression, but that might be just because of its size and front-and-center presentation upon undoing the hinged box.

No matter how high you set the bar in this category, the Garmin R50 clears it with ease. The first time you power it on and take in the stunning 10-inch color touchscreen display, it’s a genuine wow moment. The sheer vibrancy and clarity make an immediate impression.

Then there’s the physical presence of the R50. Standing 17 inches tall, 12 inches wide, and 7 inches deep, and tipping the scales at 9 pounds, it’s hard to ignore. Some golfers will love the substantial footprint, while others might find it a bit over the top.

And then you’ve got the carrying case—it’s not just functional, it’s a statement piece, large enough to resemble a suitcase or a tailgate cooler. It reinforces the idea that the R50 isn’t just another launch monitor. It’s a serious piece of equipment.

As serious as the top of the line from Foresight? Keep reading.

Golf Launch Monitor Setup Process

 

 

Garmin Approach R50 = 5

Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon = 5

It doesn’t get any easier than stepping up and hitting shots with the Garmin Approach R50 or any of these Foresight models. Each floor-standing device is as plug-and-play as launch monitors get—just power them on, set them down, do an alignment that takes seconds, and get straight to work. And with the overhead-mounted Foresight, once you clear the hurdle of installation, it’s even simpler, as the alignment is already done.

As the R50, GCQuad, and QuadMAX all feature built-in displays, you don’t need any extra devices to access your shot data—just the unit itself. No need to fumble with an app, sync to a tablet, or rely on a computer—just hit to see your numbers instantly.

Where things start to diverge is in simulator functionality. The R50 is the first-ever launch monitor with fully integrated sim software, letting you play virtual rounds right on its own touchscreen. The Foresight units, on the other hand, require a computer connection for simulator play.

Another major convenience factor? The R50 offers a direct HDMI connection to a TV or projector. With most other launch monitors, including these Foresight options, you’ll need to route through a computer before you can mirror the experience on a larger screen.

If there were a way to break the scoring scale, the R50 would be the one to do it. But in terms of pure launch monitor functionality, these Foresight products still deliver instant, incredibly accurate shot data, making it just as easy for focused practice sessions.

Garmin R50 vs Foresight Portability

 

 

Garmin Approach R50 = 3

Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon = 5

When it comes to portability, the Garmin R50’s biggest obstacle is its sheer size. It’s incredibly convenient to set up and use, thanks to everything being built right into the device. But it’s not exactly the easiest thing to transport.

To Garmin’s credit, the R50 does come with a well-designed carrying case. It’s sturdy, well-padded, and even features a shoulder strap. But, like the R50 itself, the case is massive. Taking it to the range feels more like traveling with luggage than carrying a typical golf accessory.

We’ll throw out the overhead Foresight Falcon for obvious reasons. But the GCQuad and QuadMAX are far more compact than the R50, making them much easier to take on the go. And, unlike with the Foresight GC3 and GC3S, the Quad and QuadMAX both come with really nice carrying bags to make things that much more convenient.

One nice touch each of these launch monitors share? Built-in handles. And while the R50’s handle looks like it takes inspiration from the Quad/QuadMAX design, it’s a welcome feature, adding a grab-and-go option.

Foresight vs Garmin Golf Launch Monitor Data

Garmin Approach R50 = 5

Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon = 5

One of the biggest reasons the Garmin Approach R50 has gotten so much love is for the sheer amount of data it provides right out of the box. No subscriptions, no extra purchases—just everything you need to analyze your game, included from day one.

The R50 delivers an extensive set of both ball and club data, covering everything from ball speed and spin to club path and face angle. It’s got just about every metric a golfer could want.

 

 

Then there’s the Foresight GCQuad, QuadMAX, and Falcon. As discussed, these are the products the best players in the world are relying on for their data. That tells you everything you need to know. It means they have all of the information, and it means that they are reading and reporting all of that information more accurately than any competing device.

The R50’s accuracy is outstanding. Good enough, especially relative to the price, that we can’t knock it down any points.

But these top-of-the-line Foresight GLMs are the best of the best. If you’re looking for the undisputed best accuracy, these are the ones that could have scored a million in this category.

 

 

Foresight vs Garmin R50 Outdoor Use

Garmin Approach R50 = 5

Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon = 5

The built-in display is what sets these golf launch monitors apart (again, excluding the Falcon). Being able to hit shots and instantly see your numbers—without needing an external device—makes both the R50 and the Quad/QuadMAX incredibly convenient, no matter where you use them.

Another key advantage? Each of these can track shots hit off natural grass, something that gives them a leg up over less-expensive options like the SkyTrak+ or Square Golf.

Where the R50 starts to pull ahead is in its ability to function as a fully self-contained simulator. With Home Tee Hero built right in, you can play virtual rounds anywhere, though it does require a subscription.

The GCQuad and QuadMAX, on the other hand, are the more portable options, which factors into outdoor use. But for simulator play, it has a key limitation in that you’ll need to connect to a computer.

 

 

Indoor Use

Garmin Approach R50 = 5

Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon = 5

Each of these golf simulator options offer space-saving opportunities, particularly when it comes to room depth.

The R50, GCQuad, and QuadMAX all use high-speed cameras to track shots from the side of the golf ball rather than from behind. This has a major advantage for indoor use because you basically only need enough space to freely swing a golf club. With a radar golf launch monitor, you might need as much as 21 feet of room depth.

However, there’s a tradeoff. If you’re playing simulator golf with both righties and lefties, you’ll physically have to move any of these floor-standing units each time a player switches sides. It’s a definite indoor inconvenience and something to consider if you plan to play with a mixed group.

Of course, the Foresight Falcon solves that problem better than any other golf simulator. It will require more room depth than the floor standers, but not as much as with most radar units.

The R50 continues to stand out for its all-in-one versatility. Everything you need is built into the device itself, allowing for a true plug-and-play experience, no matter where you are. And thanks to its direct HDMI output, you can connect to a TV or projector in seconds with no extra hardware required.

That said, one area where the Foresight products hold the edge is with tracking club data. If you want to get your club metrics, each of these units require stickers on the clubface, but the GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon use much smaller fiducials than the R50, making them less intrusive.

Garmin Approach R50 vs Foresight Launch Monitor Features

Garmin Approach R50 = 5

Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon = 5

I’ll admit it—I’m an absolute sucker for a built-in screen on a golf launch monitor. It’s such a game-changer that I’d probably give any device with one an automatic 5.

Of course, the R50 doesn’t just include a built-in screen, it takes things to another level. The 10-inch, full-color touchscreen is a stunner, offering a crisp, customizable display that even includes a split-screen option to organize your data however you like.

And it’s not just about looks. The touchscreen functionality makes the R50 more than just a launch monitor. It’s a fully self-contained golf simulator. You can analyze your shots, adjust your view, and even play full rounds of virtual golf without ever needing a separate device. That’s a level of convenience that’s tough to beat.

And let’s not forget the R50’s HDMI output—being able to instantly connect to a TV or projector without any extra steps is a seriously underrated perk.

The Foresight GLMs also offer unmatched features. In the case of the QuadMAX, there’s on-device storage for up to a million golf shots! And there’s an option to customize what data points are seen on the screen, which can be particularly useful for instructors or clubfitters who want to limit what information distracted students can view. Also, with the QuadMAX, there’s the option to build a customized speed training program to help any golfer hit it further.

And each of these Foresight units has the ability to track putts and provide incredibly useful analysis that’s far better than with any other golf launch monitor.

To me, it’s also worth calling the industry’s best accuracy a feature because it’s such a strong selling point for any of these Foresight Sports launch monitors.

Golf Simulator Use

Garmin Approach R50 = 5

Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon = 5

For the Garmin Approach R50, it’s the unique option to play simulator golf directly on the device itself that wins it the highest score in this category.

While the built-in sim play on the Garmin does require a subscription, there’s no other device that can do what it does. And, if you want to go through a computer and third-party simulator software, you’ve got that option too.

The Foresight devices win the highest mark because of the no-subscription-required, lifetime access to the FSX suite of simulator software, which provides the most lifelike, detail-rich golf course replications of any sim golf experience. Each of these products comes with 25 FSX Play courses and the option to choose a la cart courses, including some of the biggest and most famous tracks in the world, from a menu of 300 options.

Beyond that, like with the R50, the Foresight devices include compatibility with third-party simulator options, meaning your golf simulator opportunities are pretty much limitless.

Annual Subscriptions

Garmin Approach R50 = 4

Foresight GCQuad/QuadMAX/Falcon = 5

Because of its built-in display, you can use the Garmin R50 without paying any kind of subscription.

But, to play simulator golf on the device itself via Garmin’s Home Tee Hero option, you’ll have to pony up $9.99 a month or $99 a year for the Garmin Golf subscription. And you’ll have to pay a third-party sim software subscription if you want to go outside the Garmin ecosystem.

With any of these Foresight options, you get everything you need to play simulator golf for the life of the device without any subscription fees. Sure, these products are pricey up front, but it’s a buy-once, cry-once proposition. Once you’re in, you’re in for good.

The Final Tally: Which of These Best Golf Simulators Is Really the Best?

Adding up the scores in each of our 10 categories, we get a final result of:

Garmin Approach R50: 46

Foresight GCQuad / QuadMAX / Falcon: 48

Not only are those scores unbelievably high, they’re also incredibly close.

It’s no surprise that the Foresight options came out with a nearly perfect score. That’s what these golf launch monitors are, nearly perfect.

But the sleeper here is the Garmin Approach R50. The scores between it and the Foresight choices are close. But the price tags aren’t.

So what does that mean? It means that while the Foresight products are better, the R50 might be the better option for the most number of golfers. In other words, unless you’ve got a cost-no-object budget, the R50’s gonna get you pretty damn close. Plus, the R50 does things that even these top-of-the-mountain Foresight products can’t do.

So don’t feel sorry for the R50. It may have lost this battle. But it’s doing just fine in the war.

About PlayBetter Golf Reviewer Marc Sheforgen

Marc "Shef" Sheforgen is a golf writer whose passion for the game far exceeds his ability to play it well. Marc covers all things golf, from product reviews and equipment recommendations to event coverage and tournament analysis. When he’s not playing, watching, or writing about golf, he enjoys traveling (often golf-related), youth sports coaching, volunteering, and record collecting.