Launch monitors were once found only in fitting studios and on tour ranges. Today, there are options for almost every budget, from small personal units that sit behind the ball to high-end systems that power home simulators. Choosing the right one depends on where you'll use it, which numbers you need and how much you want to spend. Here's how to decide.
The two main technologies
| Radar (Doppler) | Camera (photometric) | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Tracks the ball's flight with radar | High-speed cameras photograph ball and club at impact |
| Best for | Outdoor ranges, seeing the full flight | Indoor simulators, short space |
| Space needed | More distance behind and in front of the ball | Less depth, positioned beside the ball |
| Strengths | Measures ball flight over distance | Detailed impact and spin data |
| Weaknesses | Indoor use limited by short ball flight | May need special balls or markers |
Some units combine technologies.
Key numbers to look for
- Ball speed, launch angle and spin rate: the most important ball data.
- Carry and total distance.
- Club speed and smash factor.
- Attack angle and club path: useful for swing improvement.
- Face angle and face-to-path: explain curvature.
- Spin axis: shows draw and fade shape.
Read launch monitor numbers explained.
Budget levels
| Level | Typical features | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | Ball speed, carry distance, estimated spin | Gapping, casual range practice |
| Mid-range | Measured spin, launch, basic club data, simulator compatibility | Keen amateurs, home simulators |
| Premium | Full ball and club data, high accuracy, advanced software | Coaches, fitters, serious players |
Prices vary from a few hundred dollars to many thousands. Remember to budget for screens, nets, mats and software if you're building a simulator. Read home golf simulator guide.
Indoor vs outdoor use
- Indoors: you need enough space for a full swing and safe ball flight into a net or screen. Camera units are often easier to fit. Read golf nets and hitting mats.
- Outdoors: radar units shine on ranges where they can track full ball flight.
- Both: some units work well in either; check the manufacturer's space guidance.
What to check before buying
- Accuracy: read independent reviews comparing data with professional units.
- Space: measure your room or bay carefully.
- Data needs: do you need club data or only ball data?
- Software: is it included, or a subscription?
- Device compatibility: phones, tablets or computers.
- Ball requirements: some need marked or specific balls.
- Portability and battery: for range use.
How to use a launch monitor well
- Gap your clubs: find your real carry distance for every club. Use our club distance chart.
- Practise with targets, not just big numbers.
- Work on one variable at a time, such as attack angle.
- Combine with video. Read golf swing video analysis.
Frequently asked questions
Is an entry-level launch monitor worth it?
For gapping and casual practice, yes. For detailed swing work, you'll want more accurate spin and club data.
Can I use a launch monitor in a garage?
Often, if the ceiling and depth allow a safe, full swing. Check the space requirements.
Do I need a launch monitor to improve?
No, but it provides feedback that can speed up learning.
The bottom line
Choose a launch monitor by matching technology to space, data to goals and price to budget. Radar suits outdoor practice, cameras suit indoor bays, and premium units add accurate spin and club data. For the wider tech picture, read golf training aids and simulators.