Best Cheap Golf Launch Monitors 2026
We collate some of our favorite launch monitors that are perfect for the more budget-conscious golfer.
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Golf used to be a game of wooden clubs, a near solid ball and simply aiming at the flag and swinging. Nowadays it's become a lot more complex thanks to the integration of technology into essentially every aspect of the sport. Gone are the days of professionals simply batting balls on the range, instead they're all going through in-depth practice sessions during each range session thanks to their coaching teams, all of whom have their eyes locked on the numbers their launch monitors are about to spit out to them after each swing. These devices unlock insights and analytics on their swing, ball flight and yardage on each shot.
This technology was once exclusive to pros, but it’s now accessible to amateurs and casual golfers. We’re now able to take advantage of the cutting-edge data that Trackman and Foresight Sports GCQuad can provide.
The Quick List
A truly immersive simulator experience which is enhance by the level of accuracy to each data point it gives you. Said data is almost instantaneous after you hit your shot and the course offerings via the simulator are well thought-out but also challenging.
A device which is as useful as it is easy, the Rapsodo is a breeze to set up and deliver accurate, valuable data straight back to your smartphone. All you have to do is set it up, place it behind you and swing away.
Speaking of ease, no device in this guide is easier to use than the impressive PRGR Portable Launch Monitor. It stores data from your last 500 shots, has a seemingly infinite battery life and weighs as light as a feather.
Garmin’s R10 is proof a top-quality simulator can also be portable, offering pro-level data in a remarkably small package. It provides high levels of precision on over a dozen metrics and seamless integration with the Garmin Golf App, where you can play 43,000+ virtual courses.
If you want a launch monitor that doesn't force you to stare at your phone, the SC300i is a top choice. It’s a bit bulkier than a smartphone, but that extra size gives you a massive, easy-to-read display that works perfectly in bright sun and helps enhance your practice sessions on the range.
No smartphone required! The SC4's crystal clear display is intuitive and remarkably easy to use. The audio options are great too and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Another device for those who don't want to stare at their phone is the SC4 from Voice Caddie, a launch monitor that is stunningly easy to use. It works seamlessly both inside and outdoors, whilst the audio options make it stand out from the crowd.
Best Cheap Golf Launch Monitors 2026
Top pick
First up we have the Square Golf Launch Monitor which comes in at the value end of the price spectrum, and I was pleasantly surprised with the performance in testing. It is very lightweight and portable, coming in at only 470 grams with the battery.
I started on the range as I wanted to get a feel for how responsive and accurate the unit was and I have to say I was very impressed on both counts. Some launch monitors have a somewhat annoying time delay from the time the ball impacts the screen to how quickly the software projects a ball flight, but with Square Golf this is almost instantaneous.
Additionally the gameplay on the courses was realistic, the overall speed of the monitor was excellent and the data is accurate enough to satisfy the majority of golfers. If you have the space for a home indoor setup, you will get a lot of fun and value for money from a Square Golf launch monitor.
- Read our full Square Golf Launch Monitor Review
Best budget
Next I've picked the Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor, a model that won our best budget option in our best launch monitors guide. Put simply, it's just an accurate, easy to use and fun launch monitor.
So, how does it work? Essentially, the Rapsodo utilizes your smartphone to deliver accurate readings on each golf swing both indoors and outdoors. After downloading the iOS app and logging in, you rest your phone in the front slot and position it approximately six feet behind the ball. The lines on the screen and the GPS overhead view help you align it correctly and select your hitting direction for enhanced accuracy.
This launch monitor is a standout for value and portability. Although the app's interface can be a bit fiddly on smaller phone screens, the visual feedback and graphics are genuinely impressive. The shot library feature is highly intuitive, allowing you to review your data history with ease and spot trends in your swing - both good and bad. Crucially, the unit is incredibly lightweight and folds down to almost nothing, fitting neatly into its included hardshell case for easy transport to and from the range - it's so lightweight it can essentially live in your golf bag, even when you don't intend to use it.
- Read our full Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor Review
Best handheld
The PRGR Portable Launch Monitor is a remarkable piece of equipment that uses a high quality, dual doppler radar sensor and launch algorithms that are designed to increase the overall consistency and precision of data.
It's pocket-sized. So it's really as simple as placing the PRGR behind the ball and away you go. Despite it's compact size, it gathers an impressive amount of data on insights such as swing speed, ball speed, carry distance, total distance and smash factor. I thought this was just the right amount of data before it gets overwhelming.
In testing, I found the precision and accuracy of data to be consistent. Occasionally, the numbers would seem different to what you'd expect but it's straightforward enough to remove the anomaly via the settings.
- Read our full PRGR Portable Launch Monitor Review
Most compact
Garmin are known for GPS devices and golf watches, with the R10 falling into the most compact section of launch monitors due to the fact that the case can hold the tripod, phone stand and device itself without no qualms. Also, it can fit in the golf bag without taking up much space at all.
Like other models on this list, it is extremely easy to set-up. Out of the box, connect it to a smartphone or tablet, put the R10 six-feet behind the ball then, once up and running, you will be able to see all the data on your smartphone, with the feedback instantaneous.
Along with the basics like ball speed and total distance etc, the R10 also tracks club path analysis, including face to path, launch direction, club face angle, attack angle, launch angle and spin axis. Importantly, after striking the clubs in our bag, the accuracy was excellent and matched our on-course data.
- Read our full Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor Review
Best battery life
The Swing Caddie SC300i improves upon it's all ready impressive predecessor - the SC300. The latest model offers a range of features including a bigger screen and new sensor technology.
I was blown away by the accuracy of the ball, swing and clubhead speed during testing. You can even track your performance in real-time by connecting to the free MySwingCaddie V2 app on your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth
I also enjoyed other features such as the voice output option of distance and a handy remote control for accessibility. In addition, there's video playback, analysis and battery life up to 20 hours. Swing analytics also includes clubhead speed, launch, angle, carry distance, apex height, spin rate and smash factor, making it one of the more comprehensive launch monitors in this category.
- Read our full Swing Caddie SC300i Launch Monitor Review
Best for features
I think the SC4 is definitely one of the best value options in the portable launch monitor category. It might be one of the most user friendly and easiest to use too. Just turn it on, set it five feet behind the ball, line up with your targets and go.
The SC4 is a launch monitor that provides very little fuss but plenty of big-brain data and usability. While you can use it solo, the MySwingCaddie app is the secret to getting the most out of your practice, offering high-end graphics and an auto-record video feature that syncs your swing with your stats. It captures every essential data point, including launch direction and spin data, making it an excellent option for anyone serious about game improvement but who doesn't want to spend thousands on a uber high tech device. It’s lightweight, incredibly easy to set up, and provides the kind of accurate, deep-dive data usually reserved for professional simulators.
- Read our full Voice Caddie SC4 Launch Monitor Review
Specifications Table
Model | Technology | Weight | Battery |
Square Golf Launch Monitor | High-speed camera and machine vision technology | 470g | 8 hours |
Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor | Radar and camera depends on phone | 256g | 8 hours |
PRGR Portable Launch Monitor | Doppler radar | 125g | N/A |
Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor | Radar | 221g | 10 hours |
Swing Caddie SC300i Launch Monitor | Doppler radar | 437g | 20 hours |
Voice Caddie SC4 Launch Monitor | Doppler radar | 589g | 10 hours |
How we test golf technology
We test all golf technology as comprehensively as possible to gauge performance over time and whether it can actually help your golf game. As you would expect, this involves using different models regularly, and in different situations to see how the technology performs. A good example is using a monitor inside/outside, or in different types of weather.
As the entire team are regular golfers, golf technology usually gets a thorough test and often get compared to one another side by side to test for things like accuracy, waterproofing, durability and other features. That way we can give honest and insightful feedback to you, the reader. Specifically launch monitor testing is overseen by several members of the gear team because they are constantly testing products. Deputy Editor Joel Tadman oversees the entire team and he is ably supported by professionals Joe Ferguson and Sam De'Ath, as well as Dan Parker, a Staff writer with years of experience testing golf equipment.
The final thing we wanted to mention in this section is no manufacturer can buy a good review. Our testing team reviews golf equipment and makes its own opinion on how good or bad the product is.
How to choose a launch monitor
1. Accuracy
The most important rule of golf tech: if it isn't accurate, it's useless. This applies to the best golf rangefinders, the best golf GPS and more. It’s a given that top-tier models from Trackman or Foresight are the best, but you don't have to break the bank to get data feedback that you can trust. Our testing shows that budget-friendly monitors like the Rapsodo MLM2PRO or the Square Golf unit are remarkably precise - don't be opting for a device we or another major outlet haven't testing because they simply cannot be trusted.
2. Metrics
While nearly every new launch monitor provides essential metrics like ball speed, club head speed and carry distance, a clear divide remains when it comes to sophisticated club-head data. More premium models offer professional-level metrics such as horizontal dispersion, club path, and face-to-path ratios that are often limited in more budget-friendly units. How in-depth you want to go in terms of numbers and data points should determine how much you want to spend and what model to go for.
3. Features
Be clear on how you plan to use it, be that indoors, outdoors, or both. Make sure you also choose a model that packs the specific features you’ll actually use. It’s no longer just about the numbers, but rather how the technology fits into your total golf experience. No offense, but if you're a higher handicapper then you won't need as many features and data metrics unless you want a device that doubles up as one of the best golf simulators. For players with handicaps in the single figures or closer to scratch, we'd recommend getting a feature-rich device to really enhance your practice.
4. 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.
5. Ease of use
This is a big factor because when we have the time to practice, we don't want to waste any of it trying to work out technological issues. This makes the smaller devices like the Swing Caddie SC300 and Rapsodo particularly appealing.
6. Portability
Size is no longer an issue for launch monitors - instead of the old, bulky and heavy units, we now have a plethora of launch monitors to choose from that can fit in any pocket in the golf bag. Before you buy, check the weight and dimensions to ensure it’s truly 'grab-and-go.' We also highly recommend choosing a model with an included carry case which will help keep your device safe and your accessories organized, making every practice session more efficient and hassle-free.
For more models that deliver in this regard, read our guide on the best portable launch monitors.
7. Price
We can’t discuss launch monitors without talking about the bottom line. If you’re looking for the absolute best that money can buy, our main best golf launch monitors guide has the creme de la creme of the market rated and ranked - be aware though, some cost a lot of money. If you're more budget conscious then you've come to the right place - this guide highlights several monitors that do an incredible job of tracking your game without breaking the bank. We’ve found that many of these budget-friendly options offer 95% of the accuracy of top-tier models at a fraction of the cost.
If you want to get fully kitted out with a home studio, why not take a look at our guides on the best golf net, or best golf mat as well.
FAQs
Should I practice with a launch monitor?
If you're serious about getting better, the answer its resounding yes. It gives you instant feedback on how well you're hitting the ball, turning a standard practice session into a deep dive into your swing. Instead of wondering why you’re losing distance, you can see the exact data points which tell you the story - just make sure you don't get bogged down in them though, a good practice session should be a combination of acknowledging the numbers but also how the ball feels off the clubface.
Should I invest in an expensive launch monitor?
It really comes down to your budget and your handicap. The most expensive models are built for those who need tour-level precision on every single metric, including club path and face angle. However, the 2026 market is flooded with fantastic value options like the PRGR or Rapsodo MLM2PRO that provide all the essential data for well under $1,000. Unless you are building a permanent, high-definition home simulator or training for professional events, a mid-range model usually offers the best return on your investment.
Can I use a portable launch monitor on the course?
Absolutely! Portable monitors are now light enough and fast enough to use during a round. Just set it down, align it to your target, and play away. It’s the best way to see if the distances you hit on the range actually translate to the fairway. Just be mindful of other players - if the course is busy, save the shot-tracking for a quiet evening or a solo practice session.
Also, to state the obvious, you are not allowed to use them during tournament/competition play.
