In years past, us mere mortals purchasing one of the best golf launch monitors was pretty much out of the question - they were largely reserved for state of the art studios and fitting rooms at your local club or golf store.
However, as golf technology has evolved launch monitors have become more and more accessible and affordable. Of course the state of the art models still cost a lot of money, but now more wallet-friendly options have appeared. The best cheap launch monitors won't give you as much info as those that cost tens of thousands of dollars but they can still help revolutionize your practice sessions.
The launch monitor market has exploded in recent years, with options now available across a wide range of price points, including options for those with the most modest of budgets. They've also shrunk in size, evolving from bulky machines into compact, ultra-portable devices, some of which require little more than a smartphone to operate.
VIDEO: Watch Joel Tadman test the accuracy of five of the latest portable launch monitors
In this guide we've listed the best golf launch monitors that cover all price ranges. Plus, if you're looking for other technologies to enhance your game, why not check out our guides on the best golf simulator, best golf rangefinders as well as our cheap vs expensive launch monitor test.
Additionally, I am sure you have noticed that it is Amazon Prime Day right now and many of the models in this guide seem to be on offer. To make sure you don't miss out on any deals, stay up to date with our Amazon Prime Day golf deals live blog.
Joel is the Deputy Editor of Golf Monthly and has amassed over 15 years of experience within the golf industry. He now oversees all equipment and video content at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough reviews and buying advice. He is helped by the experienced hands of PGA professional Joe Ferguson, former college and mini tour player Sam De'Ath as well as the trusted hands of American freelancer Mike Bailey when it comes to launch monitor reviews.
The Quick List
The experience with the R50 fully met our expectations. It’s easy to set up and operate, features a clear and detailed display, delivers accurate data, and provides a simulator experience that’s virtually flawless.
Trackman 4 delivers precise data through its patented multi-sensor technology, which combines an integrated camera with two custom-designed, ultra-sensitive radars working in perfect sync.
Given how easy it is to use and the overall accuracy and data points available, we have to say the Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor is an excellent option.
The price point is mightily appealing versus the competition given the accuracy on offer and the app experience is arguably the best on the market.
The Garmin Approach R10 is an enjoyable and highly accurate launch monitor that gives you vast amounts of data at your fingertips. Very compact and easy to use.
Accurate, reliably consistent, and packed with useful data, the PRGR Monitor stands out as one of the most impressive devices we've tested in its price range.
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Designed for the serious golfer looking to improve through feedback on performance but also benefit from playing and practicing indoors and outside.
The Foresight Sports GCQuad is a powerful photometric launch monitor that delivers tour-level data on both swing mechanics and ball flight.
A good value and easy to use option, the Rapsodo MLM2 Pro is a great practice tool that provides accurate data and can double as a decent golf simulator.
The SC300i is among the best portable launch monitors under $600 thanks to its ease of use, battery life, impressive accuracy and host of useful features.
This is a totally immersive simulator experience. The accuracy of data is very impressive, shot response time is excellent and the courses are challenging.
The Uneekor Eye Mini Lite is an affordable high quality option for an indoor/covered outdoor range and simulator.
Best Golf Launch Monitors
Top pick
There was plenty of buzz surrounding the Garmin R50 Launch Monitor, largely because it was one of the first to combine launch monitor functionality with built-in golf simulator capabilities. But how did it stack up in practice? First off, it’s worth noting that the unit is fairly substantial in size. That extra bulk allows for a generous display, yet it remains surprisingly portable at just over 4kg, thanks to its ergonomic design.
The 10-inch full-color touchscreen impressed us with its brightness, clarity, and responsiveness. Setup is straightforward as you select from three modes: Practice, Play, or Connect. The R50 uses three high-speed cameras to track 15 club and ball data points, and we found the numbers to be broadly in line with those from premium devices like the Foresight Sports GCQuad and GC3 model. Data was delivered promptly, though it was slightly inconvenient having to apply a sticker to each clubface to capture club metrics. That said, the ability to customise which data you see - and view it alongside your ball flight - was a standout feature.
Overall, our experience with the Approach R50 was overwhelmingly positive, and it certainly lived up to the hype. It’s not without its small drawbacks though. For instance, we didn’t love having to crouch down to adjust settings, and the Garmin app’s data display could use some refinement, but these are minor gripes. In our opinion, the R50 is a genuine step forward for both the golf simulator and launch monitor markets.
- Read our full Garmin Approach R50 review
Best radar
The Trackman 4 Launch Monitor is used a lot out on Tour
Over the years, such is its dominance on professional tours that Trackman has become virtually synonymous with launch monitors. If you’ve ever noticed a row of small orange boxes lining the range at a PGA Tour event, now you know what they are. Speak to many of today’s top coaches and you’ll hear them referencing Trackman data as they break down the swing changes their players are working on.
The fourth generation of this iconic launch monitor marks a significant evolution from earlier versions. It now combines both camera and radar technology, using a multi-sensor setup that synchronizes an inbuilt camera with Trackman’s patented OERT (Optically Enhanced Radar Tracking) system.
What really sets Trackman apart, though, is its remarkable versatility. It delivers a complete picture of every shot, from impact to landing, tracking metrics like spin rate, launch angle, height, and carry distance with pinpoint accuracy. But the data is only part of the package. Also included is Tracy, Trackman’s built-in A.I. assistant, who provides tips and insights, plus access to over 160 virtual courses, putting analysis tools, club fitting software, and even kid-friendly games like Magic Pond.
Of course, all of this comes at a price and it’s not a small one. With a five-figure price tag, Trackman is a serious investment. For professional players and coaches it’s a vital tool of their trade but for most of us it equates to a serious investment. That said, if you do part with the cash, your game will likely thank you for it!
- Read our full Trackman Simulator Review
Best budget
The Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor works with your smart phone
If you're keen to access swing data but can't justify the cost of a traditional launch monitor, the Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor could be the perfect solution. In essence, it turns your smartphone into a launch monitor. Simply download the free app (currently available only for Apple iOS), slot your phone into the device and you're good to go. It really is that straightforward.
Once set up, the app provides a wide range of data points, including ball speed, carry distance, smash factor, and more. While you'll be reading the numbers from your phone’s screen, we found the smaller display to be perfectly usable. The shot tracer visuals were generally accurate and added a lot to the overall experience.
One useful feature is the club detection system, which aims to recognize the club you're using. In our testing, this worked inconsistently, which was a little frustrating but not a big deal as you can always enter your club manually.
Beyond its affordability, one of the Rapsodo’s biggest strengths is its portability. Unlike bulkier, more expensive units, this one is easy to carry and comes with its own protective case.
All things considered, this is a great affordable option. It is comfortably one of the best budget launch monitors we’ve used.
- Read our full Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor review
Best shot detection
The fact that both Tiger Woods and Jon Rahm use the Full Swing Kit launch monitor speaks volumes about its quality, and also its price tag. While this premium device may be out of reach for some, it is not at the higher end of the marker and it's absolutely worth considering if your budget allows.
Thankfully, premium doesn’t mean complicated. The setup process is refreshingly simple: download the app, align the unit, pair it, and you’re ready to start hitting. We found it incredibly user-friendly right out of the box.
Like the Trackman 4, the Full Swing Kit combines an OLED display with an integrated camera and tracks 16 key data points across both club and ball performance. One standout feature is the ability to review your swing in slow motion via the built-in camera. That’s something we found both fun and highly insightful, but most importantly, the data was spot-on. Throughout our testing, the device didn’t miss a shot.
The app interface mirrors the simplicity of the hardware; clean, intuitive, and easy to navigate, making the most of the wealth of information available. However, it’s worth noting that the Full Swing Kit retails for just under $5,000, and storing swing video requires a $100 annual subscription. Still, for those willing to invest, this is a seriously impressive launch monitor that delivers a pro-level experience.
- Read our full Full Swing Kit Launch Monitor Review
Best portable
The Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor is an excellent compact model
If portability is a top priority, Garmin’s Approach R10 is sure to impress. It’s one of the most compact launch monitors on the market but don’t let its small size fool you as it delivers a wealth of data accessible through the companion app. You’ll find all the key metrics here, including clubhead speed, spin rate, club face angle, carry distance, and more. Everything you need to gain meaningful feedback and improve your swing.
Game improvement is a clear focus within the app. You can record and review swing videos, while Driving Range Mode helps you hone in on both strengths and weaknesses. For simulator fans the Home Tee Hero feature gives you access to over 42,000 virtual courses worldwide.
Despite its strong performance and impressive features, the Garmin Approach R10 remains one of the more affordable launch monitors available. In our view it offers serious value in a compact, easy-to-carry package.
- Read our full Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor review
Best handheld
The PRGR Portable Launch Monitor is a great handheld option
Much like the Garmin Approach R10, the PRGR Monitor stands out for its compact size and attractive price point. This slim, handheld device is about as portable as launch monitors come and it delivers impressive value for the money.
Small enough to fit in the pocket of your golf pants, the PRGR weighs just 125g (4.4oz), making it noticeably lighter than both the FlightScope Mevo+ and the Rapsodo MLM2 Pro. But don’t let its size fool you as it still provides a solid range of data that’s easy to access and interpret. In our view, it strikes a great balance: enough information to be useful but without being overwhelming or overly basic.
Yes, there are more advanced (and more expensive) options on the market, but if you're looking to track essential swing metrics without draining your wallet, the PRGR is an excellent choice. At this price, there’s really nothing else quite like it.
- Read our full PRGR Portable Launch Monitor review
Best ease of use
The Flightscope Mevo+ Launch Monitor can be used anywhere
If you're serious about improving your game then the Mevo+ Launch Monitor could be exactly what you’re looking for. As FlightScope’s mid-range model, it’s slightly larger and more feature-rich than its compact counterpart.
Setup is refreshingly simple. After pairing the device with the free FS Sports App, you just set your parameters and place the unit eight feet behind the ball. Once it's ready, you’ll hear an audible "Ready" prompt. No fiddling, no guesswork.
We found the app and interface easy to navigate, with 16 customizable data tiles along the bottom of the screen. You can easily drag and drop the metrics that matter most to you and there's also a table view for reviewing session averages, plus the ability to record swing videos and overlay line graphics and angle measurements on playback.
While the Mevo+ performs well outdoors, we found that it truly shines in an indoor setting. Its simulator mode gives you the opportunity to play stunning virtual courses from home. It’s also compatible with the FS Skills app, letting you challenge yourself, test your technique, and even compare your numbers against PGA Tour benchmarks.
- Read our full Flightscope Mevo+ Launch Monitor review
Best photometric
The Foresight Sports GCQuad is our top photometric pick
If you’ve been keeping a close eye on Tour events, chances are you’ve spotted the Foresight Sports GCQuad in action. As one of the most advanced launch monitors on the market, it’s easy to see why it has become so popular among professionals and coaches alike.
Equipped with four high-speed cameras, the GCQuad captures 200 images at impact from four different angles, delivering millimeter-accurate data on both ball strike and clubface interaction. This allows for an exceptional level of detail across metrics like path, lie angle, angle of attack, and more.
One standout feature we particularly appreciated during testing is the Essential Putting Analysis, which lets you track putting data without the need for calibration. All shot data can also be stored via Foresight’s cloud platform for easy access and review. Additional touches like removable batteries, built-in WiFi, and an alignment stick further enhance the overall package.
The only real drawback is the app interface, which feels a bit outdated. That said, it’s free to use and includes useful features like session averages, making the GCQuad a regular go-to in our own testing lineup.
- Read our full Foresight Sports GCQuad launch monitor review
Best set up process
Rapsodo has added another strong contender to its lineup with the MLM2PRO. This launch monitor is incredibly easy to set up and use, while offering a wide range of data and both 3D and 2D visual feedback. It comes neatly packed in a protective case that fits comfortably in a golf bag, and includes a well-designed tripod, user manual, and a set of golf balls.
In our testing, we noted that it doesn’t track the ball all the way to the ground. However, thanks to a combination of Doppler radar and onboard cameras, it captures enough of the ball’s flight to accurately calculate curvature, height, and trajectory. Key data points include carry distance, clubhead speed, ball speed, and launch angle, with total distance estimated based on these metrics.
The MLM2PRO also includes a one-year Premium Membership, giving you access to over 30,000 virtual courses, along with features like a Virtual Driving Range and the standout “Impact Vision” camera which is a notable improvement over the original Rapsodo Mobile launch monitor. Another major upgrade is that it now supports Android devices as well as iOS.
After the initial year, the Premium Membership renews at $199 annually. But for the functionality and upgrades included, the MLM2PRO more than earns its place among the top launch monitors in its class.
- Read our full Rapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor Review
Best battery life
The SC300i has a large display and speaker
While you might be familiar with its predecessor, the SC300, the updated SC300i from Swing Caddie brings significant improvements. Most notably there is the addition of a Doppler radar system and atmospheric pressure sensors, which make it one of the most accurate portable launch monitors in the budget category.
The SC300i connects seamlessly to the free MySwingCaddieV2 app, offering real-time performance tracking. New features like voice output and a remote control add to the user-friendly experience. Most importantly, during our testing, we found the SC300i to be impressively accurate. The inclusion of a barometric sensor proved especially valuable for refining distance, swing speed, and clubhead speed readings in outdoor conditions and it even held its own against much higher-end launch monitors.
One of the SC300i’s biggest strengths is its exceptional battery life. It offers up to 20 hours on a single charge, representing a major improvement over the 12-hour capacity of the previous model. While it doesn’t measure club path, we didn’t find that to be a major drawback given its overall performance.
If you’re looking for a feature-rich, budget-friendly option under $600, the SC300i is a standout choice. It’s accurate, reliable, and with battery life that’s hard to beat. For more advanced features, you might want to explore our guide to the best portable launch monitors.
- Read our full Swing Caddie SC300i launch monitor review
Best value
The Square launch monitor is very lightweight coming in at only 470g, so those of you who see weight as a barometer of robustness or quality won’t glean much confidence from your initial impression, but the construction is very neat and clean.
Downloading the Square Golf app is quick and easy and the app will provide a little run-through of how to get started. You can use any golf ball you wish with Square Golf, however, the recommendation is to use the pre-dotted balls provided as this will offer the most accurate and optimal ball data from your sessions. This isn’t ideal for those who want to get the spin numbers from their gamer golf ball, unless you happen to use a ball with visual tech such as the TaylorMade TP5 or TP5x Pix or the Callaway Chrome Soft Truvis. These will provide the same accurate readings as the Square Golf provided balls.
In testing we started on the range to get a proper feel for how responsive and accurate the unit was and we were very impressed on both counts. In terms of the data, we put it up against the Full Swing KIT, and barring one outlier in a 50-shot range session, yardage was comparable within two yards throughout, as was the the spin rate. This is particularly impressive and reassuring when you consider that FullSwing is radar-based and considerably more expensive, whereas Square Golf is camera-powered.
We were also impressed by the quality and variety of courses on offer and the gameplay was genuinely excellent. It should be noted that there will be a cost over time for the simulator experience with the requirement to purchase extra credits, but you do get 1000 free credits straight out of the box which equates to around 55 rounds of golf, which is decent.
- Read our full Square Golf Launch Monitor review
Best for games
Not to be confused with the Eye Mini, which is a portable launch monitor that can be used on a driving range and the course as well as indoors, the Eye Mini Lite from the Korean-based company is not really that portable. In fact, it has to be plugged in. But if you’re wanting to just set up something at your home, it’s a serious option, offering loads of data points, impressive graphics and speed, options to play different courses, challenges, an evaluation of your game, and other features, many of which are found on units costing way more than the Eye Mini Lite.
The compact Eye Mini Lite, which costs less than $3,000, features dual cameras and infrared sensors for ball and club measurements. You can get more detailed club measurements, like clubhead speed, by using a small sticker on the face of the club. The unit is fairly easy to set up right out of the box, but you do need to connect it with a PC computer using an ethernet cable. It will not work with an Apple product and certainly not a Chromebook. A gaming PC is probably the way to go to get the fastest processing.
For an even better experience you can hook up an overhead projector into a screen in front of you instead of a monitor, and for around $2,500 you could add a couple more cameras to video your swing from behind and face-on, as well as a force plate to measure weight shift in your swing. The software to run these optional add-ons is included.
To experience the full range of cool features the Eye Mini Lite has to offer, you’re going to want the Pro Package (about $200 annually) or the Champion Package ($400). These subscriptions bring in lots more features, courses, and different games and challenges as well as more sessions.
- Read our full Uneekor Eye Mini Lite Launch Monitor review
Specifications Table
Model | Technology | Weight | Battery |
Garmin Approach R50 | 3 high-speed camera sensors | 4.1KG | Up to 4 hours |
Trackman 4 Launch Monitor | Dual Radar sensors and camera sensors | 2.8kg | 4+ hours |
Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor | Radar and camera depends on phone | 256g | 8 hours |
Full Swing Kit Launch Monitor | 4K camera with 1080p output, Doppler radar | N/A | 5 hours |
Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor | Radar | 221g | 10 hours |
PRGR Portable Launch Monitor | Doppler radar | 125g | N/A |
Flightscope Mevo+ Launch Monitor | Doppler radar | 465g | 2 hours |
Foresight Sports GCQuad | 4 Quadrascopic cameras and integrated infrared light | 3.8kg | 6-8 hours |
Rapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor | Dual optical camera vision + radar | N/A | 4 hours |
Swing Caddie SC300i Launch Monitor | Doppler radar | 437g | 20 hours |
Square Golf Launch Monitor | Photometric camera technology | 470g | 8 hours |
Uneekor Eye Mini Lite Launch Monitor | Photometric camera technology | N/A | N/A |
How we test
Here at Golf Monthly we test all golf technology as comprehensively as possible to gauge performance over time and to accurately assess whether it can actually help your golf game. We know a lot about the performance of golf technology like launch monitors, simulators and rangefinders because we use them regularly in our testing of golf clubs. We also use these devices and clubs in different settings, whether that be different types of golf course or different weather conditions to compare and contrast the results.
Our testing and reviews are conducted by avid golfers, who aim to inform our loyal readership on the best golf products to add to your setup. We pride ourself on the trust we have built within our gear community over well over a decade of reviewing golf equipment, delivering bias-free, straight to the point, honest feedback on golf's latest gizmos and gadgets. You can rest assured that no one brand ever gets preferential treatment over another, nor can a manufacturer 'buy' a good review from us. We always call it how we see it and we know what other passionate golfers want from different products, whether that be launch monitors, clubs or anything else.
How to choose a launch monitor
When choosing a launch monitor, there are several key factors to keep in mind to ensure you’re investing in the right one for your needs. Here are the most important considerations before making your purchase:
Accuracy
Obviously, accuracy is absolutely critical. A launch monitor is only useful if the data it provides is reliable, as incorrect numbers will actually harm your game. We'd recommend only shopping with the brands we have mentioned in the buying guides above - we have thoroughly tested them and can confirm they are accurate, meaning you can trust the number they feed back to you as you work on your game!
Metrics
Not all launch monitors offer the same range of metrics. Budget-friendly models typically provide the essentials: ball speed, clubhead speed, carry distance, and so on. If you're looking for more in depth numbers on stuff like smash factor or dispersion then models like the Foresight Sports GCQuad and Trackman are the way to go. They are more expensive but deliver incredible detail.
Camera/Radar
There are usually two main technologies in launch monitors these days. Camera-based monitors use high-definition cameras to capture data at, and following, impact. Because of this they tend to be better for indoor use as some models may struggle in changing light conditions.
Radar designs use Doppler radar to follow the flight of the golf ball. These waves bounce off the golf ball to track the flight and this therefore makes them better for outdoor use. That being said there are models which have the best of both worlds, like the TrackMan 4.
Features
Launch monitors vary widely in terms of features. Basic models are great for straightforward swing data feedback, but premium units often come with extras like interactive games, skill challenges, and even multiplayer practice modes. More features typically mean a higher price though, so consider what you actually need.
Indoor/Outdoor Use
Are you going to be using the monitor inside or outside? If you look to focus on the former then investing in a proper setup may be the way to go whilst if you want to use a monitor outside then something convenient and portable is a better call.
Generally speaking, if you plan to practice indoors, a camera-based system and a suitable setup might be the best fit. For outdoor use, you’ll want something portable and easy to set up, preferably radar-based.
Ease of use
For those not overly technologically literate, some of these devices can be daunting. Some are easier to use than others, especially on the cheaper side of things. If you aren't the most confident with todays tech then it could be worth checking how easy the one you have your eye on is to set up and use correctly.
Portability
Speaking of which portability is an important factor in itself. You don't want to have to be lugging something heavy around or something that takes too long to fold away. No, we need something easy to transport, set up and use right away which is pretty much all the models above. But some are smaller and better than others, such as the Garmin R10.
Price
We have to mention price when discussing launch monitors. There will be some who can afford the top-of-the-range designs but many more won't. However as we have shown above there are still some very good more affordable models too.
Understanding
Our final factor that you need to consider is understanding. It is all well and good the launch monitor displaying data but you need to have some understanding on what those numbers mean. This is where you need to do some research or even use the launch monitor alongside a professional or golf coach so you can then analyze the data and learn how you can improve your game.
For more golf technology buying advice, be sure to have a read of our guides on the best golf watches, best value golf watches, and best budget rangefinders.
Glossary
Each of these launch monitors delivered different metrics, many of which may be unfamiliar to golfers. Here is a quick glossary some of the most important ones you should know and might well want on the launch monitor you intend to buy.
Club Head speed
Put simply, the speed of your club head through impact. The higher the speed, the further the ball will travel.
Launch angle
The angle of which the ball leaves the club face. This will naturally be higher depending on how lofted your club is but is also important information for those with the ability to manipulate loft on a club and are able to flight shots eg. hit it lower or higher on demand.
Spin axis
Spin axis is the tilt angle relative to the horizon of the golf ball’s resulting rotational axis through impact with the club face. The closer the spin axis is to 0, the higher the chance of hitting a straight shot.
Spin rate
Spin rate is the the speed at which a golf ball rotates on its axis immediately after impact, measured in revolutions per minute - otherwise known as RPM.
Smash factor
Smash factor is a ratio calculated by how efficiently a golfer transfers energy from the clubhead to the golf ball, calculated by dividing the ball speed by the club head speed. The higher the smash factor, the better.
FAQs
Are golf launch monitors accurate?
Launch monitors these days are very accurate. For example, Trackman suggests its device can accurately detect the landing point of your golf ball by 1½-yards. Additionally the cheaper models on the market have also proven to be accurate in our testing.
Yes, and with each passing year they are becoming more and more accurate. Trackman claim their devices detect the landing point of the golf ball to within 1½-yards which is sensational technology, especially considering how far some people hit the ball. Cheaper models will have a little less accuracy but still more than enough to ensure your knowledge of your golf swing and game increases.
Is it worth getting a launch monitor?
This question can be answered on what level of golfer you are. For example, if you started playing golf six months ago I'd recommend saving that money and investing in other parts of your game - potentially on new clubs or lessons with your local PGA Professional. If you're a lower handicap, a launch monitor can help take your game to the next level and thus could be worth the investment. This is an easier question to answer now with how many amazing cheaper options there are on the market.
What launch monitors do professionals use?
The most commonly used launch monitors used by professionals are the Trackman 4. This is likely the monitor used in your local golf club, shop or retail store and is specifically used for lessons and to help custom fit clubs for customers.
What launch monitors does the PGA Tour use?
There are a wide range of devices used by the pros on the PGA Tour, however two stand out as the most popular. The GCQuad from Foresight Sports is used religiously by the likes of Bryson DeChambeau and Rickie, whilst the likes of Rory McIlroy and Dustin Johnson put their trust in the Trackman 4.
What launch monitor does Tiger Woods use?
Tiger Woods opts for the Full Swing KIT launch monitor. It is the technology of choice used in the TGL simulator league which debuted earlier in 2025.
If you want more buying advice, why not take a look at our guides on the best golf net, or best golf mat as well.
