The Ultimate Outdoor Golf Simulator Setup
Get the Best Outdoor Golf Simulator
If you are looking for extra practice, putting together the ultimate outdoor entertaining area, or just having a current obsession with the game, all are valid reasons for a DIY outdoor golf simulator in your backyard.
Golf simulators use high-tech sensors and computer software to recreate the experience of playing golf, without having to step foot on a course. You can customize your game to match your skill level, and play against friends or family members who live far away. Best of all, you can enjoy the fresh air and scenic views from the comfort of your own backyard!
Can you use a golf simulator outside? Yes, you can use a golf simulator outside.
While the outdoors is not typically associated with golf simulators, that doesn’t have to be the case. For many people, there may not be room in their home to add a golf simulator but outdoors have ample space. Others may want a golf simulator for special outdoor golf events or more select invite-only occasions. Whatever the reason may be, golf simulators aren’t exclusively indoors.
They also don’t have to break the bank. Many people cannot afford the five-figure and above price tag of having outdoor golf simulators installed. But, as technology progresses, more affordable options that can accommodate a wide array of budgets have emerged.
Golf simulators use high-tech sensors and computer software to recreate the experience of playing golf, without having to step foot on a course. You can customize your game to match your skill level, and play against friends or family members who live far away. Best of all, you can enjoy the fresh air and scenic views from the comfort of your own backyard!
Can you use a golf simulator outside? Yes, you can use a golf simulator outside.
While the outdoors is not typically associated with golf simulators, that doesn’t have to be the case. For many people, there may not be room in their home to add a golf simulator but outdoors have ample space. Others may want a golf simulator for special outdoor golf events or more select invite-only occasions. Whatever the reason may be, golf simulators aren’t exclusively indoors.
They also don’t have to break the bank. Many people cannot afford the five-figure and above price tag of having outdoor golf simulators installed. But, as technology progresses, more affordable options that can accommodate a wide array of budgets have emerged.
The A LA CARTE APPROACH TO Outdoor Golf Simulators
We are here to show you your outdoor golf simulator dreams can become a reality by providing the best outdoor golf simulators, buffet style, that your money can afford. Pick what you want, build based on your end goal, and, in the end, maybe splurge for dessert.
As you make your way down your golf simulator buffet line you’ll get to choose from launch monitors, outdoor hitting mats, accessories, the absolute must-haves for the best experience, and more. The best part about all of this is that you can build based on your budget, preferences, and list of non-negotiables.
By the time you reach the end of this theoretical buffet line, the indoor man cave or she-shed will be a thing of the past. The ultimate outdoor golf simulator setup is going to have you cleaning house in the weekend skins games and put your home on the map as the premier entertainment destination for your friends and family.
As you make your way down your golf simulator buffet line you’ll get to choose from launch monitors, outdoor hitting mats, accessories, the absolute must-haves for the best experience, and more. The best part about all of this is that you can build based on your budget, preferences, and list of non-negotiables.
By the time you reach the end of this theoretical buffet line, the indoor man cave or she-shed will be a thing of the past. The ultimate outdoor golf simulator setup is going to have you cleaning house in the weekend skins games and put your home on the map as the premier entertainment destination for your friends and family.
Simulation Software Considerations
There are quite a few options out there to consider when deciding on building your ultimate outdoor golf simulator. Whether you are budget conscious, looking for the full “sim-in-a-box,” or are just dipping your toes into the proverbial simulator pool, we are going to break them down for you.
Brands to consider (click the link to jump directly to our review):
Brands to consider (click the link to jump directly to our review):
Radar-Based vs Camera-Based for an Outdoor Golf Sim
There are two main types of launch monitor technology. Radar-based systems and camera-based systems. The radar-based systems are set up behind the golfer looking down the intended target line and use algorithms to determine data at impact. The high-speed camera systems are set up face-on to the ball and club face capturing every detail at impact.
Your radar-based systems are TrackMan, Flightscope, and Garmin. Your high-speed cameras-based systems are Foresight Sports, Bushnell, and SkyTrak. Rapsodo is a different breed because it utilizes both radar and camera technology.
Your radar-based systems are TrackMan, Flightscope, and Garmin. Your high-speed cameras-based systems are Foresight Sports, Bushnell, and SkyTrak. Rapsodo is a different breed because it utilizes both radar and camera technology.
Anyone who considers themself to be an avid golfer has heard of TrackMan. It’s arguably the most well-known piece of simulator technology on the market. It also happens to be the most expensive. When searching for your outdoor launch monitor, the TrackMan 4 is the gold standard. This piece of technology offers both radar and video capabilities and truly is the best of both worlds.
The starting price of a TrackMan is about $20K and can increase from there when looking at the outdoor model and other add-ons. Whether you want to play a real (virtual) golf course, hit the driving range, or challenge your buddies to a wedge combine, this technology offers it all. Want to use the shot analysis tool while comparing your data to tour pros while reviewing swing data and video? It can do that too!
It’s no surprise the price tag is as high as it is. When you see the capabilities of TrackMan, it makes sense. It is incredibly accurate, has a ton of shot-related stats, and offers realistic imaging.
The starting price of a TrackMan is about $20K and can increase from there when looking at the outdoor model and other add-ons. Whether you want to play a real (virtual) golf course, hit the driving range, or challenge your buddies to a wedge combine, this technology offers it all. Want to use the shot analysis tool while comparing your data to tour pros while reviewing swing data and video? It can do that too!
It’s no surprise the price tag is as high as it is. When you see the capabilities of TrackMan, it makes sense. It is incredibly accurate, has a ton of shot-related stats, and offers realistic imaging.
If the price tag isn’t an issue and you are looking for convenience, TrackMan offers a one-stop shop experience for golfers. They will design and build your simulator tailored to your exact specifications down to the last detail. This can run you upwards of $100K but if money isn’t an option, go for it!
What more could you ask for? Fill that plate from the buffet with one thing, move on and enjoy it. No fretting over picking each component individually, leave it up to the professionals and reap the benefits of their hard work.
What more could you ask for? Fill that plate from the buffet with one thing, move on and enjoy it. No fretting over picking each component individually, leave it up to the professionals and reap the benefits of their hard work.
You would think one of the greatest golfers of all time would be the most difficult test for a launch monitor. Full Swing is the launch monitor of choice for Tiger Woods. That should be enough for just about anyone.
The Full Swing Launch Monitor performs incredibly well outside and would serve as a great backyard practice option. It can be customized via Carl's customization tool. You can get everything you want to complete your backyard golf setup.
The Full Swing Launch Monitor performs incredibly well outside and would serve as a great backyard practice option. It can be customized via Carl's customization tool. You can get everything you want to complete your backyard golf setup.
Flightscope is another well-known launch monitor brand. Whether it’s swing analysis data, video review, playing courses, or enjoying a solid practice session, FlightScope is portable and offers it all. With this piece of technology, there are small metallic stickers that will need to be placed on the golf ball in order for your launch monitor to dispense data accurately. Not to worry, though, those come with it at purchase.
Comparatively speaking, this launch monitor comes in at a lower price point and has a couple of different versions with more or fewer options. Their smallest handheld model, the FlightScope Mevo Plus, is estimated to start out around $2K while the larger model, FlightScope X3, runs around $12K. Depending on what technology capabilities you are looking for will determine how high the price tag is. The more you want to be able to do with your launch monitor, the more you are going to pay for it.
Comparatively speaking, this launch monitor comes in at a lower price point and has a couple of different versions with more or fewer options. Their smallest handheld model, the FlightScope Mevo Plus, is estimated to start out around $2K while the larger model, FlightScope X3, runs around $12K. Depending on what technology capabilities you are looking for will determine how high the price tag is. The more you want to be able to do with your launch monitor, the more you are going to pay for it.
When comparing FlightScope to TrackMan, TrackMan is easier to set up. TrackMan also has the latest technology and more gaming options than its counterpart, FlightScope. This could be why there is such a disparity in price.
Moving down the line, FlightScope also offers that one-stop shop for your outdoor golf simulator setup. No hassle, no mess, but it comes at a much lower cost compared to TrackMan because of its lack of customization.
Moving down the line, FlightScope also offers that one-stop shop for your outdoor golf simulator setup. No hassle, no mess, but it comes at a much lower cost compared to TrackMan because of its lack of customization.
Foresight Sports is the newest launch monitor technology on the scene, establishing its claim on the golf technology industry in 2009.
Tune into any PGA Tour, European Tour, or LIV event and you are bound to see one of these bad boys on the practice tee. Foresight is starting to take the golf simulator world by storm. With three different models, Foresight has two ground-based models, meaning they sit on the ground. Those models are the GC Quad and the GC3. The third model is the GC Hawk which is an overhead-mounted launch monitor.
Tune into any PGA Tour, European Tour, or LIV event and you are bound to see one of these bad boys on the practice tee. Foresight is starting to take the golf simulator world by storm. With three different models, Foresight has two ground-based models, meaning they sit on the ground. Those models are the GC Quad and the GC3. The third model is the GC Hawk which is an overhead-mounted launch monitor.
If outdoor golf simulators are going to be set up under a covered patio, the GCHawk might be the right way to go. This model offers the largest hitting area but lacks portability. It is also the most expensive of the three models measuring out at a cool $19.5K.
As far as portability goes, the GCQuad and GC3 offer the most versatility. The GC3 is the entry-level model, starting at $7.5K, and doesn’t offer the same level of technological data tracking capabilities that the Quad and Hawk offer. The GCQuad has a price tag of $14.5K. It is the top-of-the-line indoor and outdoor launch monitor in terms of available data tracking because it’s the only launch monitor in the industry to utilize Qudropscopic imaging.
So far, your buffet selections are making it easy for you. Like TrackMan and Flightscope, Foresight Sports also offers a one-stop shop with their Sim-In-A-Box option. If you can’t find a Sim-In-A-Box package that fits your needs they also offer the ability to design and build your own simulator to your exact specifications.
As far as portability goes, the GCQuad and GC3 offer the most versatility. The GC3 is the entry-level model, starting at $7.5K, and doesn’t offer the same level of technological data tracking capabilities that the Quad and Hawk offer. The GCQuad has a price tag of $14.5K. It is the top-of-the-line indoor and outdoor launch monitor in terms of available data tracking because it’s the only launch monitor in the industry to utilize Qudropscopic imaging.
So far, your buffet selections are making it easy for you. Like TrackMan and Flightscope, Foresight Sports also offers a one-stop shop with their Sim-In-A-Box option. If you can’t find a Sim-In-A-Box package that fits your needs they also offer the ability to design and build your own simulator to your exact specifications.
If you think this piece of technology looks similar to one you’ve already seen listed, you would be correct. The Bushnell Launch Pro personal launch monitor is powered by Foresight Sports.
Although this piece of technology may look similar to Foresight’s, they start at a much more reasonable price point. The Bushnell Launch Pro starts out new at $3.4K but they also offer a refurbished option for $3K.
We have yet to cover a piece of portable golf simulator technology that doesn’t offer an option for a one-stop shop, all-in-one simulator setup. Like FlightScope though, the Bushnell Launch Pro doesn’t offer the ability to customize. Shop Indoor Golf does, however, offer several different simulator packages for the Bushnell Launch Pro.
We have yet to cover a piece of portable golf simulator technology that doesn’t offer an option for a one-stop shop, all-in-one simulator setup. Like FlightScope though, the Bushnell Launch Pro doesn’t offer the ability to customize. Shop Indoor Golf does, however, offer several different simulator packages for the Bushnell Launch Pro.
Garmin is going to be one of your more budget-friendly portable golf sim options. At $600, you won’t be breaking the bank with this piece of technology. Not only is the Garmin Approach R10 for those ballin’ on a budget, it’s also easily transportable, fitting in the palm of your hand.
While the CGI with this technology may not hold a candle to TrackMan’s, it has many of the same activities included. You will have the option to play virtual rounds of golf, track swing data with dozens of metrics, play different games, and view your stats between shots. Dollar for dollar, the Garmin Approach R10 may be mini but it is mighty.
While the option for a sim-in-a-box or fully customizable simulator is not via Garmin, Carl's does provide the custom build tool. You can use the tool to select the rest of the backyard components needed for your outdoor golf simulator.
While the option for a sim-in-a-box or fully customizable simulator is not via Garmin, Carl's does provide the custom build tool. You can use the tool to select the rest of the backyard components needed for your outdoor golf simulator.
|
Rapsodo is another great handheld portable launch monitor. Not to mention even more bang for your buck! This piece of technology is the most budget-friendly option at $699.
See our Full Review of the MLM2Pro |
|
The Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor is said to be as accurate (within 2%) as TrackMan and at 2% of the cost. Now if all you are looking for is analytics and data on your swing, this is the tool for you! Best price point, easily transportable and comparative data to that of the TrackMan.
Whether it’s your backyard or the range, the Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor is sure to beef up your practice sessions. It has the ability to track all your favorite metrics including:
Whether it’s your backyard or the range, the Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor is sure to beef up your practice sessions. It has the ability to track all your favorite metrics including:
- Carry Distance
- Total Distance
- Launch Angle
- Launch Direction
- Club Speed
- Ball Speed
- Side Carry
- Smash Factor
SkyTrak doesn’t offer the ability to build a full custom simulator, but Shop Indoor Golf does have many packages available on its website for purchase. So, in a way, you could customize what components you want to pair together to make up your outdoor golf simulator while staying under the SkyTrak umbrella. From golf hitting mats, side barrier netting, to the whole simulator setup, we have you covered.
Like the Foresight Sports and Bushnell launch monitors, SkyTrak relies upon a system of high-speed cameras that captures incredibly accurate images of the ball directly after impact to measure the parameters necessary to depict shot shape and carry distance.
This launch monitor is a step up from your Garmin and Rapsodo in terms of available accessories and the ability to play virtual golf courses. With a starting price just under $2K, this is a good mid-range option.
This launch monitor is a step up from your Garmin and Rapsodo in terms of available accessories and the ability to play virtual golf courses. With a starting price just under $2K, this is a good mid-range option.
Outdoor Golf Hitting Mat Options
Now that you are fully educated on launch monitor options and technology types, it’s time to determine if you want to build a ballin’ on a budget setup or shoot for the stars and go all out in building out the other required ingredients.
When looking for the right outdoor hitting mat options you need to determine what your goal for the equipment is. Do you just need an area to hit from? Do you want the ability to putt out when you play your virtual rounds of golf? Are you looking for a comprehensive practice putting green to complement your outdoor simulator? These are important questions to consider when making your way down the buffet line, selecting components for your outdoor golf oasis.
Turf that is made to withstand the outdoors and its environment is essential. A few brands to consider when choosing which outdoor hitting mat best suits your needs are:
When looking for the right outdoor hitting mat options you need to determine what your goal for the equipment is. Do you just need an area to hit from? Do you want the ability to putt out when you play your virtual rounds of golf? Are you looking for a comprehensive practice putting green to complement your outdoor simulator? These are important questions to consider when making your way down the buffet line, selecting components for your outdoor golf oasis.
Turf that is made to withstand the outdoors and its environment is essential. A few brands to consider when choosing which outdoor hitting mat best suits your needs are:
Outdoor Simulator Impact Screen or Golf Net
The next decision to be made along your golf simulator buffet line is specific to what kind of experience you want. Do you want the full simulator experience or is hitting into a net sufficient?
If you are working on a restricted budget, having netting to hit into is your best option. Golf nets eliminate the worry about weather affecting your setup as it can more easily withstand the elements. With no need for the pesky wiring of an overhead projector, netting is logistically easier. You also wouldn’t be reliant on a structure to hang the screen from as most golf netting comes with a frame, including side barrier netting to protect your windows (and your neighbor’s windows) from a stray shot.
Netting would be best suited for uncovered outdoor golf simulator setups. If the results you are seeing on your cell phone or tablet suffice, there is no need to have it projected on a screen. Plus, if you are cramped on space, having a simple outdoor hitting mat with netting provides you with a space-saving setup that can be stored away and brought out when wanted. Not to mention it’s much cheaper.
If you are working on a restricted budget, having netting to hit into is your best option. Golf nets eliminate the worry about weather affecting your setup as it can more easily withstand the elements. With no need for the pesky wiring of an overhead projector, netting is logistically easier. You also wouldn’t be reliant on a structure to hang the screen from as most golf netting comes with a frame, including side barrier netting to protect your windows (and your neighbor’s windows) from a stray shot.
Netting would be best suited for uncovered outdoor golf simulator setups. If the results you are seeing on your cell phone or tablet suffice, there is no need to have it projected on a screen. Plus, if you are cramped on space, having a simple outdoor hitting mat with netting provides you with a space-saving setup that can be stored away and brought out when wanted. Not to mention it’s much cheaper.
If you decide you want to go the screen route, having a covered area is going to be crucial. It doesn’t have to be indoors, but you want it to be protected from the threat of wind, rain, sleet, snow, etc. You will also need an overhead structure to attach your projector. Most simulator or launch monitor companies will have a projector that comes with their screen setup.
Below is a golf simulator setup that would work outdoors with need for little space but a covered area would be best. The reason being is sunlight can often wash out the image on the screen if it is too bright outside. Leaving your experience lackluster. Setting something up like this on a pool lanai under an overhanging roof would be ideal. That way you can see the image projected on the screen.
Below is a golf simulator setup that would work outdoors with need for little space but a covered area would be best. The reason being is sunlight can often wash out the image on the screen if it is too bright outside. Leaving your experience lackluster. Setting something up like this on a pool lanai under an overhanging roof would be ideal. That way you can see the image projected on the screen.
Outdoor Golf Sim: Covered or Uncovered Spaces
Depending what your vision is for your outdoor golf simulator will determine if it can be fully exposed to the elements or if it needs to be somewhat protected from certain weather conditions.
I think we have established that if you are going the netting route, little consideration needs to happen as far as how the weather might affect your setup. In an outdoor simulator setting, having a hitting net as your target opens up many more doors as far as location and space consideration goes.
When we start bringing screens and projectors into the mix, covered or weather-protected areas are a must. Imagine the below picture is an outdoor area that sits near your pool. You have a deep recessed sitting area under the roof begging to be redesigned into the ultimate outdoor golf simulator. It’s protected from the elements and for extra flair, you can have a door that drops down for extra protection.
I think we have established that if you are going the netting route, little consideration needs to happen as far as how the weather might affect your setup. In an outdoor simulator setting, having a hitting net as your target opens up many more doors as far as location and space consideration goes.
When we start bringing screens and projectors into the mix, covered or weather-protected areas are a must. Imagine the below picture is an outdoor area that sits near your pool. You have a deep recessed sitting area under the roof begging to be redesigned into the ultimate outdoor golf simulator. It’s protected from the elements and for extra flair, you can have a door that drops down for extra protection.
Must Have Simulator Accessories
This is the dessert section of your golf simulator buffet. What add-on simulator accessories can you incorporate to bring your outdoor golf simulator to the next level? Maybe pair it with a custom outdoor putting and chipping green. Invest in a few nets or targets you can chip in, and add a 19th hole bar for in between virtual rounds and practice sessions.
Building your dream simulator up north or in the midwest? Heaters might be your go to accessory, or even lounge seating with heated cushions. When it comes to the ultimate outdoor golf simulator, dream big, that is if your budget allows. If you design it, someone out there will build it for you, for the right price of course.
Building your dream simulator up north or in the midwest? Heaters might be your go to accessory, or even lounge seating with heated cushions. When it comes to the ultimate outdoor golf simulator, dream big, that is if your budget allows. If you design it, someone out there will build it for you, for the right price of course.
You’ve made it to the end of the buffet line and you’re drooling from all of the options you encountered as you made your way through. Hopefully, you have a better understanding of the different options available when it comes to building dream outdoor golf simulators.
You can go the one-stop shop route, the budget-conscious route or you can spare no expense and design something that would put commercial simulator ranges to shame. The great thing about this is, there isn’t only one right answer. It’s all dependent on your preferences, needs, wants, and budget. And there are options to satisfy just what you are looking for.
Happy shopping and make sure your eyes aren’t bigger than your wallet in this case. this case.
- Golf simulator putting green
- Golf simulator computer stand
- Golf simulator control box
- Projectors
- Golf simulator software
- Golf simulator tees
You can go the one-stop shop route, the budget-conscious route or you can spare no expense and design something that would put commercial simulator ranges to shame. The great thing about this is, there isn’t only one right answer. It’s all dependent on your preferences, needs, wants, and budget. And there are options to satisfy just what you are looking for.
Happy shopping and make sure your eyes aren’t bigger than your wallet in this case. this case.
This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for websites to earn advertising revenues by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.
