2025 PlayBetter Official Golf Launch Monitor Buyer's Guide – Everything You Need to Consider

We’ll cover the essentials, keep it manageable, and link out to deeper dives when you’re ready. Want to explore software specs or camera vs. radar tech? It’s all here when you need it.

Let’s get this right. There’s a lot to cover — and it’s worth it.

DATA / SIMULATION: How do you want to use your golf launch monitor?

This is a hugely important question in your search! How do you want to use your golf launch monitor?

Do you want pinpoint accuracy for game improvement? Full sim rounds with friends? Or just a fast way to get data before your tee time?

All golf launch monitors track your shots, but some do much more. Accuracy, data depth, and software compatibility vary widely.

Answering this question will help greatly refine your search!

Learn More:

• Golf Simulator Reviews
• We’ve tested and reviewed each golf launch monitor — so you can find what fits.
• Home Golf Studio Customizer
• Explore your options for a full golf simulator build, including launch monitor, enclosure, mat, screen, and projector.

CAMERA / RADAR: Should you choose a golf launch monitor with camera, radar or both?

Launch monitors use one of two tracking systems — and the difference matters:

• Camera-Based (Photometric): Sit beside the ball. Ideal for indoor use with tighter spaces and for quick on-the-go setup.
• Radar-Based: Sit behind the ball. Better for large rooms or outdoor setups and longer ball flight.

Your choice affects space requirements, budget, and data metrics.

Learn More:

• Golf Launch Monitor Reviews
• Get a complete, exhaustive breakdown of each launch monitor available.
• Camera-Based vs. Doppler Radar
• Learn which type of launch monitor is right for you.

OVERHEAD / FLOOR: Should you choose floor or overhead launch monitor?

• Overhead-mounted units offer a clean, out-of-the-way setup. Great for permanent studios with high ceilings.
• Floor-standing models are often very portable. Take them to the range, backyard, or a buddy’s garage.

Both can deliver pro-level accuracy. Just depends how and where you plan to play.

Learn More:

• Overhead Launch Monitor Reviews
• Read our in-depth reviews on popular overhead options like the Foresight Falcon and Uneekor EYE XR.
• A More In-Depth Launch Monitor Guide
• Decide once and for all which type of launch monitor is right for you.

INDOOR / OUTDOOR: Should you choose a launch monitor that's best for indoor, outdoor or both?

Where will you use your golf launch monitor? Some devices only work indoors. And others, while they may work indoors or outdoors, are too large to be considered very portable. Deciding how and where you’ll use your launch monitor is a critical part of your launch-monitor-decision-making process. Think through it carefully.

Learn More:

• Golf Launch Monitor Reviews
• We’ve covered every angle on each of the leading options.
• Launch Monitor Comparisons
• Learn how these different products stack up against each other.

SPACE REQUIREMENTS: How much space do you need for a golf launch monitor & simulator?

Planning to use your launch monitor indoors? Make sure your space is up to it. Here are the golf simulator room dimensions that matter most:

• Ceiling Height: 10 feet is ideal; 8.5 feet may work for shorter players
• Room Depth:
• Camera-based systems: ~10 feet
• Radar-based systems: 18-21 feet total
• Room Width: At least 10 feet

Learn More:

• Golf Simulator Space Requirements
• Want exact space requirements for the device you’re considering? We’ve mapped it all out.
• Got Hitting Nets and Mats
• Learn about the other indoor components you’ll need to consider.

SOFTWARE: What's the best golf simulator software?

Your launch monitor is only half the story. The real game-changer is the software ecosystem that brings it to life with course libraries, practice games, simulation modes, and online play. Software platforms vary widely in features, cost, and in launch monitor compatibility.

Learn More:

• Golf Simulator Software
• Find out what your software options are for each launch monitor on your list.
• GSPro Compatibility
• Learn which launch monitors work with the popular GSPro third-party simulator software.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: What kind of laptop or computer do you need to use for golf simulator software?

Some launch monitors work as standalone units. Others need to connect to a smartphone, tablet, or even a full gaming PC to unlock full functionality.

Know what your system can handle — and what each launch monitor demands.

Learn More:

• We’ve done the research. Check system requirements for every golf launch monitor.

PRICE: How much does golf launch monitor cost?

How much is this going to cost? The good news: You decide. From around $500 to over $20,000, there’s a launch monitor for every budget. And financing is available

Here’s the quick breakdown:

• <$1,000 — Entry-level, accuracy and data metrics may be limited.
• $1K-$5K — Better accuracy, more simulator software options.
• $5K+ — Pro-level data, full-featured.
• $10K+ — Tour-grade, commercial-ready.

Learn More:

• Golf Launch Monitors
• Discover all of your options.
• Golf Simulator Recommendations
• Find the best choice for your specific budget.
• What Spending More Gets You
• How accurate are golf launch monitors? That can vary a bit. Find out why spending more could be the right move for you.

DEEP-DIVE RESOURCES & COMPARISONS: In-Depth Resources for Golf Launch Monitors

Want to dive deeper? We have huge amounts of long-read content on everything to do with golf launch monitors: 

1. CAMERA VS. RADAR — Yes, it matters! Especially for space, accuracy and budget.
2. INDOOR, OUTDOOR, OR BOTH? — Will this live in a simulator studio or go with you to the range?
3. SPACE REQUIREMENTS — Got the ceiling height? What about depth? Some setups demand more room than others.
4. SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY — Do you care about simulation, online games, or just numbers?
5. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS — What kind of computer, tablet, or smartphone do you plan to use? Not all launch monitors play nicely with every device.
6. BUDGET — Are you keeping your spend at under $1,000? Or are you ready to invest in a pro-level setup?
7. PORTABILITY AND SETUP — Will you leave it in place or pack it up after every session?

We’ve worked hard to pit these launch monitors against each other. Check out our golf simulator comparisons for the only place on the internet where you’ll find these kinds of ranked-and-rated head-to-head matchups.