Helpful Info About Our Sim Packages

If you've got questions about golf simulators, we've got answers! We've got helpful guides and comparison charts to help you find the right simulator to fit your needs.

Simulator Buying Guide: Where to Start

Quick 5-Step Guide to Buying a Golf Simulator

Buying a simulator doesn’t have to be overwhelming—here are 5 things you need to decide before you dig into your options:

1. Determine How Much Space You Have

Space drives everything—enclosure style, launch monitor type, projector throw, and whether both right- and left-handed players can swing comfortably.

  • Measure width × height × depth (wall to wall, floor to ceiling, back wall to screen).
  • Note obstructions (garage tracks, lights, soffits), doors, and outlet locations.
  • Aim for 9–10’+ ceiling, 12’+ width, and 16–20’ depth for most builds
  • Budget 7–10 ft ball-to-screen and 4–6 ft behind the player for swing clearance.
  • Dual-handed use? Add width or choose center-strike layouts and overhead tracking.

2. Decide How You’ll Use Your Simulator

Your goals will determine the launch monitor, enclosure, software, and A/V choices. Some things to consider are:

  • Analytics: Do you need or want to be able to get in-depth swing analysis and practice?
  • Gaming & social play: Is the ability to access top golf courses, entertaining games and interactivity important to you?
  • Family entertainment: Will your simulator be used by the entire family? Think about durability, ease of use and multisport and gaming options.
  • Coaching/content: Are you looking for a more professional setup?
  • Commercial/league play: Will this be used in more of a public setting that will require more durability?

3. Set Your Budget

Determining a budget range is important since it will ensure you evaluate options that are realistic for your home or business.  You'll need to factor in the launch monitor, enclosure, projector, mat, and installation.

Check out our Simulator Budget Guide tab for a more detailed breakdown.

4. Decide on Any "Make or Break" Options

Are there any other important factors that could impact your golf simulator purchase?Consider right/left-handed play, multi-sport, and whether you want a permanent or retractable setup.

5. Start Your Research...Or Let Austad's Help

Once you've nailed down the essentials, you can start digging into your options from a much more focused and informed place.  Here's a quick checklist of what you'll need to decide on:
  • Simulator enclosure or impact screen
  • Launch monitor
  • Software
  • Projector
  • Computer/Gaming System
  • Hitting Mat
Austad’s offers free simulator consultations (room fit, throw math, launch monitor selection, software) and professional installation so your simulator is square, safe, and calibrated the first time you hit “Start Round.”
Simulator Package Comparison

Flex Package Par Package Birdie Package Curved Package

Quality & Build Premium retractable cassette + tensioned screen; built for everyday use in multi-purpose rooms/garages Solid, value-focused fabric + screen kit; durable for home use Heavy-duty, commercial-leaning materials; excellent light control and finish Top-tier; engineered curvature + premium screen; cinema-grade immersion
Standout Features Retracts in seconds; preserves room use; optional wall/ceiling mount; perfect for garages Straightforward build; modular sizing; budget-friendly; easy replacements Cleaner edges, thicker enclosure fabric, superior ball containment, “studio” look Panoramic wrap-around visuals; unmatched wow-factor; best for projector-driven realism
Recommended Room Size* ~10’W × 9’H × 16’D (more depth for projector & swing); 9–10’+ ceiling ideal ~12’W × 9’H × 18’D (varies by size) ~12–14’W × 10’H × 19–20’D ~14–16’W × 10’H × 20–22’D (extra depth for curve & projector throw)
Install Difficulty Moderate (stud finding, mount/clearances) Moderate (PVC/pipe cutting & wrap) Moderate–Advanced (heavier components) Advanced (precision alignment)
Price Tier ** $$–$$$ $$ $$$ $$$$
Best For Garages, bonus rooms, multi-use spaces that can’t stay “built out” 24/7 First builds, budget projects, renters or tinkerers Dedicated rooms, higher swing speeds, frequent play Premium studios, showpiece installs, entertainment + practice

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* Room size guidance assumes a right-handed golfer centered; lefties or shared bays should add width.
** “Price Tier” is relative: $$ (value) → $$$$ (premium). Actual pricing depends on size, add-ons, and shipping.

How to Measure Your Space

Start by measuring width, height, and depth of your room. Most setups require at least 9–10 feet of ceiling height, 12 feet of width, and 16–18 feet of depth for safe swings, proper ball flight, and projector throw.

Make sure to account for swing clearance (especially if both right- and left-handed players will use the space) and allow 7–10 feet from ball to screen plus 4–6 feet behind the player. These minimums ensure accurate tracking, clear visuals, and comfortable play.

Simulator Budget Guide

When planning your golf simulator, your budget should cover more than just the launch monitor and enclosure. Think of it as a complete system—enclosure and screen, projector, hitting mat, computer, and installation all play a role in performance and longevity.

The key is to align your investment with your goals: a value package for fun and family play, a performance build for serious practice, or a flagship studio for a true tour-level experience.


Here's a high-level breakdown of how much you can expect to spend on the components of your simulator:

  • Launch monitor: 40–60%
  • Enclosure + impact screen: 15–25%
  • Projector & mount: 10–20%
  • PC/Laptop & cart: 10–20%
  • Mat & flooring: 10–15%
  • Install & misc (cables, foam): 5–15%

Curious about what different types of simulators will cost you?  Here are some general parameters:

  • Starter ($3–8k): Value enclosure or retractable/net, 1080p projector, entry-level launch monitor, basic turf.
  • Performance ($8–15k): DIY or small Pro Enclosure, short-throw 1080p/bright laser projector, mid-level launch monitor, premium mat.
  • Flagship ($18–35k+): Curved or Pro Simulator Enclosure with trim, 4K/bright laser projector, high level launch monitor, full room buildout.

Overwhelmed?  We've got your back. Reach with any questions or book a FREE simulator consultation and we'll talk you through the process.

We Can Help You Build Your Dream Simulator

Reach out to book a free consultation or drop us a line. From design to installation, we've got you covered.

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