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.”
