As an attempt to satisfy a proof of concept, I wanted to put together a budget-friendly setup and explore the idea of a golf simulator in the basement. This all started with a simple question: How can I get some additional practice in at home? Initially, the plan was just a net with no electronics to track stats.
So here we go.
Launch Monitor ($400)
I started with the SC4 Pro but was never able to successfully pair it with any device. The manufacturer’s recommendation was to send it back and receive a replacement unit. I filed that under unacceptable solutions, returned it for a refund, and purchased a refurbished Garmin Approach R10 instead. This has worked very well.
Enclosure / Screen / Net ($240)
The first $50 purchase shown in the picture was a joke. After two or three hits, the “screen” started to break down. The second enclosure included a projection screen and, for what it is, has worked well so far. If I were to change anything, it would be the drooping at the top of the screen. I could probably add some tiebacks and stretch the screen tighter to improve that.
Hitting Mat ($137 + $263)
I initially thought the hitting strip that came with the first enclosure would be sufficient. I was sadly mistaken. I then invested in a more robust hitting mat, which worked fine—until I started feeling the good old tennis elbow. The pain was pretty intense. Since then, I added the SIGPRO Softy hitting strip, and it has been night and day in terms of joint pain. I haven’t cut it into my mat yet, but the plan is to layer a ½-inch sheet of plywood and another ½-inch foam mat to build up the original mat so it matches the elevation of the hitting strip.
Projector ($???)
The first projector I purchased has been serviceable but is very dim. I’m currently searching eBay for a projector with higher lumen output and the correct throw distance for my mounting location.
The Numbers
All in, I’m just under $1,300 invested, with a $174 credit coming back on the projector once the refund is processed—less whatever I end up spending on the replacement projector.
So, what’s the moral of the story?
Maybe I should have just taken the plunge and invested in a complete system. Or maybe I should have gone with higher-quality components from the start.
Either way, I’m really enjoying the process—and the fun it’s bringing.
I would appreciate any input on projectors on the cheap.
by jburger1981
2 Comments
I might reach out to r/budgetprojectors and see if they can help. The mod over there helped me snag a used conference room projector+mount off eBay for around $450. It is way brighter and better than anything new in that price range. Has been working great
I have a budget set up in my garage and I forwent the projector and bought a 32’ tv, a tv stand, and a hdmi connector for my phone. All in $150. I don’t mind not having the image projected on my impact screen.