Indoor Golf Systems in 2025

Golf Simulator: Complete Guide to Indoor Golf Systems in 2025

Key Takeaways

  • Immersive experiences – Golf simulators combine launch monitors, impact screens, protective enclosures and high‑quality software to recreate famous courses and provide detailed swing analysis
  • Space planning matters – Home setups need ~10‑ft ceilings (9‑ft absolute minimum), at least 15 ft width for both left and right handed swings, and 14+ ft of depth (up to 21 ft for radar systems).
  • Know your use case – Home simulators deliver year‑round practice and family entertainment, while commercial installations generate revenue through lessons, fittings and pay‑to‑play experiences.
  • Technology drives performance – Modern launch monitors accurately measure ball speed, spin, launch angle and club path. Choosing the right hardware, enclosure and software combination unlocks the full potential of indoor golf.

Introduction

Weather shouldn’t dictate your practice schedule. Advances in indoor golf technology now bring the sights and sounds of Pebble Beach, St Andrews and Augusta National into garages, basements and training studios around the world. These systems pair cutting‑edge launch monitors with high‑definition projection to create immersive golf experiences that rival outdoor play. Whether you’re a weekend golfer looking for winter practice or a facility owner considering a commercial installation, understanding the components, space requirements, and brands available will help you make the right choice.

What is a Golf Simulator?

A golf simulator allows you to swing real clubs and hit real balls indoors while accurately capturing every aspect of your swing. It goes far beyond a simple launch monitor. A launch monitor measures ball and club data, but a complete simulator adds a projection system, impact screen, protective enclosure and course‑rendering software for a fully immersive experience.

Launch monitors use radar, camera or hybrid technologies to measure parameters such as ball speed, launch angle, spin rate and club path. This data feeds into software that calculates ball trajectory and displays realistic course graphics. While a basic launch monitor might cost as little as $500, top‑tier monitors and simulator packages can cost up to $18,000 or more. The price difference reflects the added projection systems, enclosures and premium software that transform raw data into a life‑like golf experience.

Modern simulators faithfully recreate iconic venues with accurate weather conditions, pin positions, rough depths and green speeds. Some systems even adjust for different lies and turf conditions, making indoor practice feel surprisingly similar to the real course.

Essential Components of a Golf Simulator

Building a complete golf simulator for your home or business means including all the must-have components that deliver a realistic, enjoyable, and safe indoor golf experience. Here’s what every high-quality golf simulator setup needs:

Launch Monitor:
The launch monitor is the heart of any golf simulator system. It precisely measures club and ball data, such as speed, launch angle, spin, and distance, to give you instant feedback and help you improve your game.

Impact Screen:
A premium impact screen is essential for stopping golf balls traveling up to 250 mph while serving as a crystal-clear projection surface. The right impact screen ensures safety and brings your virtual golf courses to life.

Protective Enclosure:
Protective enclosures use sturdy frames and side netting to safeguard your space- walls, ceiling, and bystanders—from errant shots. They’re a must for safe and focused golf simulator practice at home or in commercial spaces.

Simulation Software:
Golf simulator software powers your experience by converting launch data into realistic virtual course play, driving ranges, and detailed swing analytics. The best software options offer a wide range of courses, practice modes, and game-improvement tools.

Gaming Computer:
A high-performance gaming computer is crucial for running your golf simulator software smoothly. The right PC ensures seamless graphics, fast data processing, and compatibility with advanced features—delivering an immersive indoor golf experience.

Projector:
A quality projector displays bright, vivid images onto your impact screen, transforming your space into a lifelike golf environment. Choosing the best projector for golf simulators means enjoying clear visuals and accurate ball tracking.

Golf Mat:
A durable golf hitting mat simulates real fairway feel, protects your joints, and provides accurate feedback on every shot. Investing in a premium golf mat is key for realistic practice and long-lasting performance.

Turf/Landing Pad:
Turf and landing pads extend protection beyond your hitting mat, cushioning ball landings and shielding your floors. They also enhance the look and comfort of your golf simulator room.

Accessories:
The right golf simulator accessories—like swing cameras, projector mounts, side netting, blackout curtains, and control boxes—add convenience, safety, and customization to your setup. Accessories help you tailor your golf simulator to your exact needs.


Ready to build your dream golf simulator? Check out our Golf Simulator Builder Guide for expert tips, product recommendations, and step-by-step help.


Launch Monitor Technology

Launch monitors come in portable and overhead configurations. Some of our  recommendations include:

  • ProTee VX – A ceiling‑mounted unit with a large 21 × 25 inch hitting zone and 24 measured ball and club parameters. It integrates directly with GSPro and doesn’t require reflective stickers on clubs or balls, offering tour‑level performance at roughly a quarter of the price of comparable radar units.
  • Uneekor Launch Monitors – The EYE MINI Lite and EYE MINI pack a punch for their size; EYE XO2, EYE XO2 and EYE XR overhead units capture both ball and club data without stickers and provide precise swing feedback, making them popular with serious players.
  • SkyTrak+ - A value option for home use, combining photometric technology with portability and integration into major software platforms.
  • Full Swing Kit - A portable radar-based launch monitor designed for golfers who want professional-level accuracy and immediate feedback whether practicing indoors or outdoors. Created with input from Tiger Woods, it measures sixteen key data points and delivers instant detailed analysis through an intuitive app. 
  • IDRA II – An advanced overhead system with a generous hitting zone and compatibility with most simulation software.
  • These monitors measure ball speed, launch angle, spin, club path and more, providing the data needed for accurate simulation and swing analysis. When selecting a monitor, consider accuracy requirements, budget, ease of installation and compatibility with preferred software.

Impact Screens and Enclosures

  • High‑quality impact screens use multiple layers, a durable hitting surface and foam backing to contain golf balls safely and preserve image clarity. Many premium screens clearly display 4K projection for ultra‑realistic visuals.
  • For the enclosure, choose a solution that’s easy to assemble, fits your space and provides a clean look. For enclosures consider:
  • Carl’s Place DIY C‑Series Enclosures – Available in multiple sizes, these kits include frames, impact screens and netting and can be customized for your room dimensions.
  • Indoor Golf Shop SIG Enclosures – Offered in SIG8, SIG10 and SIG12 sizes, these enclosures pair well with premium screens and come with all the framing and padding.
  • SimBooth 1 & 2 – Sturdy enclosures designed for quick assembly and professional aesthetics.
  • Selecting the right enclosure ensures safety, protects your investment and improves the overall look of your simulator space.

Space Requirements for Golf Simulators

Proper space planning is critical to safe and enjoyable simulator use.

  • Ceiling Height: Aim for 10 ft to allow comfortable swings for most golfers, though 9 ft is the minimum. Taller players or those with very upright swings may need additional clearance.
  • Room Width: Allocate at least 15 ft to accommodate both left‑ and right‑handed swings. This provides roughly 7.5 ft on either side of the ball and helps prevent clubs from hitting walls. If you use a ceiling‑mounted monitor with a large hitting zone (e.g. ProTee VX or EYEXR), you may operate with slightly less width, but more space is always better.
  • Room Depth: For camera‑based monitors, plan 10 ft from the hitting position/launch monitor to the screen; radar‑based systems may require up to 21 ft from the launch monitor to the screen. Depth measurements include both the hitting area and space behind the screen to absorb ball impact.
  • Garage Installations: Two‑car garages are popular because they often meet these dimensions and provide easy access.

Commercial facilities typically dedicate a bay for each simulator and design spectator and seating areas; they may also add climate control, lighting and acoustic treatments.

Popular Brands and Models

ProTee and Uneekor (High‑Accuracy Enthusiast Options)

ProTee VX and Uneekor monitors deliver tour‑level data at lower prices. The ProTee VX is widely recommended for its large hitting zone, 24 data points and integration with GSPro. Uneekor’s overhead units provide high accuracy without the need for ball or club stickers, and the portable EYE MINI Lite is a best‑seller among entry‑level enthusiasts.

TruGolf 

TruGolf remains a respected name in commercial and high‑end home installations. Instead of purchasing their all‑inclusive packages (Starter 10 or MAX), choose components that suit your space. TruGolf’s Apogee and TruGolf Ball Flight Launch Monitors deliver accurate ball and club data and pair well with a variety of enclosures and software. TruGolf is known for its E6 Connect and E6 Apex software options, which include practice ranges, multiplayer challenges and detailed course libraries. These systems are still popular in commercial venues, but they’re only one option among many.

SkyTrak and Portable Monitors

SkyTrak+ remains a strong entry‑level choice thanks to its portability and integration with leading software platforms. Portable monitors like the Full Swing Kit, Garmin R50 and Rapsodo MLM2Pro offer flexibility for golfers practicing in multiple locations.


Software and Simulation Platforms

Simulation software ties everything together. Three standout options dominate the market:

  • GSPro – Widely regarded as the premier simulation platform, GSPro offers more than 1,750 golf courses, many scanned with lidar and Google Map overlays. The graphics are considered among the best in any simulator program, and players can participate in tours with FedEx Cup‑style points, track detailed statistics and compete in online leagues. What sets GSPro apart is its independently developed, community‑driven nature; it integrates with nearly every major launch monitor except a few proprietary models.
  • E6 Connect / E6 Apex – Developed by TruGolf, E6 offers realistic physics and stunning course graphics. These platforms include practice ranges, skills challenges and multiplayer competitions.
  • The Golf Club 2019 (TGC 2019) – Still popular among hobbyists, this program provide a variety of courses and game modes and work with many portable launch monitors.

When selecting software, consider compatibility with your chosen launch monitor, course library size, graphics quality, online play options and subscription costs.


Gaming Computer

A gaming computer is the core of any high-performance golf simulator setup. It manages the graphics, physics calculations, and real-time data processing required by advanced simulation software like GSPro. The right PC ensures smooth gameplay, accurate shot tracking, and immersive visuals, all of which directly impact your experience and the realism of your virtual rounds.

Why the Gaming Computer Matters

Golf simulator software demands significant processing power and advanced graphics capabilities. GSPro, for example, features high-definition graphics, lifelike ball flight, and complex shot data analysis. A subpar computer can result in lag, stuttering, or even software crashes, undermining the accuracy and enjoyment of your simulator. Investing in a well-matched gaming computer guarantees that your simulator runs reliably and delivers the most authentic golf experience possible.

Minimum Specs to Look For

For GSPro and similar modern simulator platforms, the following specifications are recommended as a baseline:
  • Processor: Intel Core i7 (12th Gen or newer) or AMD Ryzen 7
  • Memory: At least 16GB DDR5 RAM (32GB preferred for multitasking or streaming)
  • Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 or higher (RTX 3070 and above for advanced graphics settings or 4K projection)
  • Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD minimum for fast load times and smooth operation
  • Operating System: Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)

Garage Golf Gaming Computer Options

Garage Golf offers a curated range of both desktops and laptops, purpose-built for golf simulator applications. These systems are designed in partnership with XOTIC PC to meet the demands of GSPro and other advanced simulation software.

Each model is engineered for reliability, speed, and compatibility with top golf simulation platforms. You can compare all current options and specs directly on the Garage Golf website: Garage Golf Gaming Computers.

Golf Mat

For us here at Garage Golf, the golf mat is, without question, the most important purchase you can make for your golf simulator setup. While technology and visuals often get the spotlight, the mat is the only component you interact with on every single shot. It determines not just your comfort, but also your long-term health and the authenticity of your practice.

A high-quality golf mat protects your joints, wrists, and elbows by absorbing impact and simulating the feel of real turf. The wrong mat can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and even injury. I can speak from personal experience—testing a subpar golf mat in the past resulted in an injury that took months to recover from. That is why protection is always the highest priority when we recommend mats to our clients. In addition, many excellent high quality golf mats have a removable hitting insert or strip that if or when it wears out can be replaced or swapped out separately from the entire mat, allowing you to replace only that portion without having to replace the entire mat itself, thus saving you extensive repetitive costs. 

At Garage Golf, we believe your golf mat should never be an afterthought. It is the foundation of your simulator, and the right choice will ensure you can practice for hours, season after season, without risking your body.

Two of our favorite options are:

  • The SIGPRO Super Softy Golf Mat from the Indoor Golf Shop: This double-sided mat is engineered for maximum forgiveness and comfort, providing a realistic fairway feel while minimizing joint stress. It is available in several sizes, including one-sided options to accommodate simulator spaces of all shapes, sizes, and widths. View the SIGPRO Super Softy Golf Mat

  • The Fiberbuilt Player Preferred Golf Mat from Fiberbuilt: This double-sided mat features a shock-absorbing design and authentic turf response, trusted by teaching professionals and serious golfers alike. It also comes in a variety of sizes, including one-sided mats, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your simulator space. View the Fiberbuilt Player Preferred Golf Mat

When you invest in a premium golf mat, you are investing in the longevity of your game and your health. For any golfer building a simulator, start with the right mat—everything else builds on that foundation.


Turf / Landing Pad


A turf or landing pad is a crucial addition to any golf simulator setup, serving as a cushioned surface that bridges the gap between your hitting mat and the enclosure or screen. The Indoor Golf Shop landing pads available on our website are designed to provide seamless protection for your flooring while enhancing the look and feel of your simulator space. These landing pads absorb the impact from golf balls, reduce noise, and create a smooth transition from the hitting area to the screen, helping to preserve both your equipment and your environment.

For those seeking even more turf coverage, the Money Putt Turf is an excellent option. It offers a premium putting surface and can be customized to cover larger areas, giving you the flexibility to extend the playable space in your simulator for both putting practice and overall aesthetics. 



Both solutions help create a polished, comfortable, and functional simulator experience that protects your investment and elevates your game.


Accessories


The right accessories can make a significant difference in your golf simulator experience, adding convenience, realism, and efficiency to every session. At Garage Golf, we have a few favorites that we consistently recommend to clients for maximizing both enjoyment and performance.

  • Club Keyboard: The Club Keyboard is a wireless keypad designed specifically for golf simulator software like GSPro. It lets you quickly input commands, change camera angles, and navigate menus without leaving your hitting area, streamlining your practice and play.
  • BirTees Golf Tees: BirTees are versatile, durable tees made for simulator use. They come in a variety of heights, allowing you to easily switch between clubs and maintain consistent tee height, which is essential for accurate shot data and a true-to-life feel. Just make sure to select Black as your tee color of choice, as some colors like White can confuse the launch monitor with the golf ball causing misreads or incorrect data!
  • Fiberbuilt Rubber Ball Tray: The Fiberbuilt Rubber Tray is a sturdy, professional-grade ball tray that keeps your practice area organized and efficient. It holds dozens of balls securely and positions them for easy access, so you can focus on your swing instead of chasing down golf balls.
These accessories not only enhance the functionality of your simulator but also contribute to a more enjoyable and efficient practice environment. Whether you are fine-tuning your game or simply looking to create a more polished setup, these essentials will elevate your simulator experience.


Home vs Commercial Golf Simulators


Home Installations: The main benefits are convenience, privacy and year‑round practice. Families enjoy playing iconic courses together, and dedicated golfers can work on specific skills without the pressure of public play. Over time, a home simulator often pays for itself by replacing driving range fees and green fees. High‑quality data and analytics make it easier to track progress and refine techniques.

Commercial Installations: Simulators generate revenue for golf facilities, sports bars and entertainment venues by attracting customers during slow periods. They’re also valuable for PGA teaching professionals who use advanced simulators for lessons, club fittings and player development programs. A well‑planned commercial setup can bring in $50,000–$100,000+ annually, depending on location and marketing.

Costs vary widely. Home setups start around $2,000 for a basic monitor and net and can reach $15,000 for fully enclosed systems. Commercial installations typically start near $25,000 and can exceed $100,000 for multi‑bay facilities with premium hardware and custom design. Financing options are available through third‑party providers, and manufacturers often run seasonal promotions.

Golf Simulator Setup and Installation

Proper installation ensures accurate data, safety and a polished appearance. DIY kits work well for many home systems, particularly portable monitors and pre‑fabricated enclosures. Detailed video guides and customer support help homeowners assemble enclosures in under an hour. More complex overhead systems may take 2–4 hours, but remain achievable for handy DIYers.

Professional installation is recommended for commercial facilities or challenging home spaces requiring custom sizing. Installers handle electrical requirements, projector mounting and software calibration. Ensure that dedicated circuits are available for projectors and monitors. 

Plan for 30-60 minutes to assemble a pre‑fabricated enclosure, plus time to position the launch monitor, mount the projector and configure the software. Commercial installations usually require 1–2 days to complete because of their scale and customization.

Benefits of Using Golf Simulators

Simulators offer unique advantages over outdoor practice:

  • Year‑round play: Continue improving regardless of weather.
  • Detailed swing analysis: Monitor club head speed, attack angle, face angle, club path and ball data for immediate feedback.
  • Instant correction: Identify slices, hooks, pushes and pulls and adjust your technique quickly.
    Course management practice: Play world‑famous courses to sharpen strategy.
  • Family entertainment: Most systems include multi‑sport games and challenges for all ages.

Game Improvement Features

Modern simulators provide built‑in tools that accelerate learning:

  • Point‑of‑impact video – See exactly where the club strikes the ball, helping refine ball‑striking and detect equipment issues.
  • Automatic shot shape detection – Systems identify shot shape and recommend adjustments.
  • Practice modes – Dedicated modes for driving accuracy, approach shots and short game allow focused practice.
  • Performance analytics – Track handicap, distance, accuracy and scoring trends over time.

Cost and Financing Options

Price remains a major consideration. Entry‑level setups ranging from $2,000–$5,000 include portable launch monitors and basic nets. Mid‑range home systems cost $8,000–$15,000 and often include an enclosure, impact screen, projector and mid‑tier monitor. Ceiling Mounted Launch Monitor and upper end residential setups can run between $15,000-$25,000 range in total price depending on options selected. Lastly, professional‑grade systems can cost anywhere from $25,000–$100,000+ and are designed for commercial use or super high end home studios. These custom installs may include climate control, acoustic treatment and custom design features.

Third‑party financing providers spread payments over several years, making simulators more accessible. Manufacturers also run seasonal promotions that reduce entry costs.


Frequently Asked Questions


What’s the difference between a launch monitor and a complete golf simulator?


A launch monitor measures ball and club data at impact. A full simulator pairs the monitor with a projection system, impact screen, enclosure and software to create an immersive course‑play experience. Basic monitors start around $500, while full simulators with premium software can cost $5,000–$18,000+.


How accurate are golf simulators?

Top-tier golf simulators using radar or high-speed camera technology consistently deliver ball flight data that is within one to two percent of real world results when properly calibrated and set up. Entry-level systems, including some portable launch monitors, typically demonstrate a variance of three to eight percent, with the gap narrowing each year as sensor technology and software improve. Factors like hitting surface, room lighting, and calibration also influence accuracy, but modern simulators from reputable brands provide highly reliable performance for both practice and play.


Can I improve my short game and putting on a simulator?

Golf simulators are extremely effective for full swing and approach shot analysis. Most leading models also measure chipping and pitching very accurately for shorter distances for those looking to work on their approach game. Putting remains a bit more variable, and while results are often less consistent than with real-world greens, simulators are vastly and quickly improving putting practice and analysis for the better and looking to become an vital and integral part of the entire golf simulator experience moving forward. 



Do I need special balls or clubs?


 Most simulators work with standard balls and clubs. Premium balls yield the most accurate data, and softer practice balls may not register properly on some monitors. Reflective stickers are unnecessary on modern systems like ProTee VX or Uneekor units, though older radar units sometimes require them.


What maintenance is required?


Impact screens may need replacement every 2–5 years, depending on use; projector bulbs on non-laser projector typically last 2,000–4,000 hours. Launch monitors require periodic calibration and software updates. Hitting mats can also wear out after heavy use. 

By understanding the components, space requirements, brands and software options, you can create a simulator that meets your goals, whether that’s winter practice, family entertainment or a new revenue stream. The combination of accurate data, realistic courses and advanced analytics makes today’s indoor golf systems powerful tools for improving your game and enjoying golf year‑round.

Ready to Build Your Golf Simulator?

Choosing the right simulator doesn’t have to be complicated. At Garage Golf, we cut through the noise and focus only on products we trust and personally recommend, so you don’t waste time or money on setups that aren’t right for you.

Whether you’re creating a home practice space or planning a commercial installation, our team can guide you through every step,  from selecting the best launch monitor to choosing the right enclosure, screen, and software for your space.


Contact Garage Golf today for a free consultation and let us help you design a simulator setup that fits your game, your space, and your budget.

Browse our shop and purchase directly from our selection of industry-leading simulator brands.

 

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