Launch monitors have revolutionized how golfers practice, from tour pro all the way to casual amateur. If you turn up at a PGA Tour or DP World Tour event and head to the driving range you likely won’t see a single player, caddie or coach without one, routinely checking after each shot to gauge the numbers and attempting to translate that to on-course success.
Not too long ago, launch monitors were almost only seen on professional driving ranges, with us mere mortal amateurs resigned to feel and what our eyes tell us when practicing. That’s all changed now – the launch monitor market has ballooned, opening up a range of prices and opportunities for those with the most modest of budget to invest in one. Launch monitors have gone from chunky pieces of kit to ultra-portable packages, some of which you only need your smartphone for.
The data they provide can prove invaluable too, teaching us so much about our game and the golf swing that we didn’t know previously. Data such as clubhead speed, spin rates, launch angle and carry can help inform golfers of all levels, quickly highlighting tendencies in your swing, both good and bad. Knowledge of this can help diagnose strong and weak points in your game, leading (hopefully) to more informed and valuable practice sessions.
The expanding launch monitor market is a good thing, of course. However, it does make the process of choosing the right one that bit more difficult. If you strung by a tight budget, we’d recommend checking out our guide for the best cheap golf launch monitors but if you’re still open minded about budget and type of monitor you’re after, keep it right here.
VIDEO: Watch Joel Tadman test the accuracy of five of the latest portable launch monitors
Fortunately, 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.
The Quick List
Best radar
Trackman 4 Launch Monitor
Trackman 4 offers accurate data thanks to a patented multi-sensor technology that synchronizes an inbuilt camera with two bespoke ultra-sensitive radars.
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Best budget
Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor
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.
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Best shot detection
Full Swing Kit Launch Monitor
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.
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Best portable
Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor
An enjoyable and highly accurate launch monitor that gives you vast amounts of data at your fingertips, the Garmin R10 is compact and easy to use.
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Best handheld
PRGR Portable Launch Monitor
Accurate, reasonably consistent and with plenty of data points, the PRGR Monitor is one of the most impressive devices we’ve tested at this price point.
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Best ease of use
Flightscope Mevo+ Launch Monitor
Designed for the serious golfer looking to improve through feedback on performance but also benefit from playing and practicing indoors and outside.
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Best photometric
The Foresight Sports GCQuad is an impressive photometric launch monitor that provides tour-quality data about a player’s swing and ball flight.
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Best set up process
Rapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor
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.
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Best battery life
Swing Caddie SC300i Launch Monitor
The SC300i is among the best portable launch monitors under $600 thanks to its impressive accuracy, ease of use, battery life and host of useful features.
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Best Golf Launch Monitors
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Best radar
The Trackman 4 Launch Monitor is used a lot out on Tour
(Image credit: Trackman)
Tour favorite
Specifications
Technology: Dual Radar sensors and camera sensors
Data: Ball and club data
Weight: 2.8kg
Battery Life: 4+ hours of playtime
Portable: Yes
Reasons to buy+
Accurate, fast and informative data
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Can get this as a complete home set up
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Huge feature list
Reasons to avoid-
Need a tablet or phone to display data
Over the years Trackman has become a byword for launch monitors such is its popularity on Tour. If you’ve wondered what those little orange boxes are lined up the length of the range, now you know. Listen to many of today’s most prominent coaches and they’ll rattle off Trackman generated numbers as they explain what swing changes their charges are currently working on.
The fourth generation of its launch monitor shows plenty of evolution from the previous models. It now features both a camera and a radar, with the hybrid device’s multi-sensor technology synchronizing the inbuilt camera with its patented OERT (Optically Enhanced Radar Tracking) system.
But Trackman’s greatest asset is its sheer versatility. You get numbers generated from impact right through to the ball’s landing position, including spin rates, launch angle, height and carry. But accurate data is just the tip of the iceberg. Also present is Tracy, Trackman’s A.I assistant, who offers analysis and tips, alongside more than 160 simulated courses, putting analysis and club fitting software. There are even games designed for kids, such as Magic Pond.
Unsurprisingly all this comes with a cost, and by cost we mean five figures. 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.
Best budget
The Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor works with your smart phone
(Image credit: Future)
Best budget launch monitor
Specifications
Technology: Radar Technology and camera depends on phone
Data: Club/ball speed, launch angle/direction, distance
Weight: 256g
Battery Life: Up to 8 hours
Portable: Yes
Reasons to buy+
Turns yours smartphone into a launch monitor with accurate, quick data feedback
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Very easy to set up
Reasons to avoid-
Currently not available on Android devices
If you’re looking to access swing-generated data but can’t afford a traditional launch monitor, then the Rapsodo mobile monitor could be a great fit.
In simple terms, it converts your smartphone into a launch monitor. All you do is download the free app that uses your phone’s camera and GPS, and then slot into the unit. It really is that simple. However, it’s worth noting that the app is currently only available to Apple iOS users.
From here you’ll get plenty of data insights, from ball speed to carry distance, smash factor and more. Yes, you’ll have to get used to reading these numbers from your phone but we found that the smaller screen wasn’t too much of hindrance and the shot tracer graphics the app used were accurate for much of the time. Speaking of accuracy, the Rapsodo has a feature that detects the club you’re hitting but we found that this didn’t always work. You can enter your clubs manually however.
As well as its affordability, another benefit of the Rapsodo is its portability. Unlike a traditional launch monitor it can be carried with ease and comes with its own case. In short, this is a great affordable option, comfortably one of the best budget launch monitors we’ve used, that proved to be easy to use and accurate during our testing.
Best shot detection
The Full Swing Kit Launch Monitor is used by some of the best players in the world
(Image credit: Future)
Used by Tiger and Rahm
Specifications
Technology: 4K camera with 1080p output, Doppler radar
Data: Club, ball, plus 16 data points
Weight: N/A
Battery Life: Five hours
Portable: Yes
Reasons to buy+
Easy to use
+
Accurate
+
App experience is one of the best around
Reasons to avoid-
Currently doesn’t have a ball normalisation feature
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Full app experience comes with a hefty price tag
That both Tiger Woods and Jon Rahm use the Full Swing Kit monitor is an indication of its quality. And its price tag. So while this premium product is likely out of reach for many, it is well worthy of consideration if you have the money to spend. Fortunately expensive doesn’t mean convoluted or confusing. It benefits from a straightforward set-up that we found easy to use; it really is as simple as downloading the app, lining it up, paring it. After that you’re good to go.
Like the Trackman 4 it uses both a OLED screen and a built-in camera, with 16 different data points used that cover both the club and the ball. We loved how the camera allows you to check out your swing in slow-mo. Vitally, we found that all the data recorded was accurate; the Full Swing Kit monitor didn’t miss a shot.
Like the set-up process, using the app is equally intuitive. The result is a great user experience, allowing you to fully benefit from all the data that’s on show. But you won’t get much change from $5,000 and if you want to store your swing footage you’ll need to pay an annual $100 fee for the app.
Best portable
The Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor is an excellent compact model
(Image credit: Future)
Best compact launch monitor
Specifications
Technology: Radar Technology
Data: Wide mix of club and ball data plus distances
Weight: 221g
Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Portable: Yes
Reasons to buy+
Powerful device in a compact package
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Can play 42,000 courses worldwide when linked with Garmin Golf App
Reasons to avoid-
Compatible smartphone required to use
If portability is important to you, then Garmin’s Approach R10 should impress – It’s one of the most compact launch monitors available. However despite its size it’s capable of capturing bags of data, which you access through the app. All the usual metrics are here, from club head speed to spin rate; club face angle to carry, and more. Combined it offers you all the feedback you need to work on your swing.
Game improvement is a constant theme across the app. You can record and then view video clips of your swing, while the Driving Range Mode allows you to focus on your strengths and weaknesses. If you’re into course simulators, the Home Tee Hero option here serves over 42,000 courses from around the world.
And while the Garmin Approach R10 punches above its weight, it’s one of the more affordable launch monitors out there when you consider the rest of the market.
Best handheld
The PRGR Portable Launch Monitor is a great handheld option
(Image credit: Dan Parker)
Arguably the slimmest and simplest units to use
Specifications
Technology: Doppler Radar Sensor
Data: Swing/Ball speed, carry distance, smash
Weight: 125g
Battery Life: N/A
Portable: Yes
Reasons to buy+
Accuracy impressive for price point
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Perfect amount of data on offer
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Portable and long lasting battery
Reasons to avoid-
Display is super-simplistic
Like the Garmin Approach R10, the PRGR monitor’s selling points are size and price. In fact, this slimline handheld device is about as portable as launch monitors and all for an impressively competitive price.
Fitting comfortably in the pocket of your golf pants, it’s smaller and, at just 125g or 4.4oz, considerably lighter than both the Flightscope Mevo+ or the Rapsodo MLM2 Pro. But the size isn’t reflective of its limitations – you still get plenty of data that’s easy to access and understand. For us, it was just the right amount – not too much to overwhelm and not so little it’s pointless.
Yes, there are far more expansive – and expensive – launch monitors, but if you want to capture the vital swing numbers that will give you the feedback you need, then the PRGR will serve you well without breaking the bank. Sure there are more comprehensive devices out there, but not at this price point.
Looking for an easy-to-carry launch monitor? Then look no further…This handheld PRGR Monitor takes portability to the next level.
The newest version of the PRGR uses a high quality, dual doppler radar sensor and new algorithms to increase data accuracy—all while fitting comfortably inside your pocket. Not even the likes of the Flightscope Mevo+ or Rapsodo MLM2 Pro are as nifty and as lightweight as the PRGR.
We cannot stress enough how convenient this monitor and for such a small – and well priced – launch monitor, the PRGR gathers a decent amount of data, without being overwhelming. For us, it was just the right amount – not too much to overwhelm and not so little it’s pointless. Sure there are more comprehensive devices out there, but not at this price point.
Best ease of use
The Flightscope Mevo+ Launch Monitor can be used anywhere
(Image credit: Future)
Radar-based unit that can be used indoors and out
Specifications
Technology: Doppler radar
Data: Ball data plus clubhead speed and attack angle
Weight: 465g
Battery Life: 2 hours
Portable: Yes
Reasons to buy+
Compact and lightweight
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Easy and intuitive to set up
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Wide range of features and data points
If you’re committed to training and improving your game, then this might just be the launch monitor for you. The Mevo+ Launch Monitor is Flightscope’s mid-range offering which is slightly larger and offers more features than the compact model, so we were keen to test the features for ourselves…
Wasting time playing with settings, apps and interfaces is annoying. The Mevo+ is straightforward to set up. You’ll need to pair the unit to the free FS Sports App, set parameters and place it eight feet way. Then, the device will give you an audible ‘Ready’, so you know you’re good to go.
We found the app and interface be intuitive, with data insights appearing in 16 customizable tiles at the bottom of the screen so you can drag and drop the numbers that matter to you the most. Table view lets you look at your averages for the session, record video and even add line graphics and angles on the playback.
The Mevo+ works outdoors, but it’s definitely suited more towards golfers that have an indoor hitting space because it has an impressive simulator, enabling you to play some beautiful courses from your own home. The Mevo+ also works with the FS skills app so you can challenge yourself, put your technique to the test and see how you compare to a PGA Tour player.
Best photometric
The Foresight Sports GCQuad is our top photometric pick
(Image credit: Future)
Our top photometric pick
Specifications
Technology: 4 Quadrascopic cameras and integrated infrared light
Data: Ball and club data
Weight: 3.8kg
Battery Life: Removeable 6-8 hour lithium ion
Portable: Yes
Reasons to buy+
Tour level accuracy and analytics
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Clear, built in display that provides accurate data fast
Reasons to avoid-
A little bit clunky to carry around
If you’ve been paying close attention, here’s another launch model you may have seen at the Tour events. The Foresight Sports GCQuad is one of the most high-tech launch monitors on the market and it easy to see why it is so popular.
It has four cameras that capture 200 pictures at impact, from four different locations so the user can get millimeter accurate data on strike on the ball as well as the clubface. That means you can get a remarkable level of detail on information on path, lie angle, angle of attack and so on and so forth.
In our testing we particularly enjoyed the addition of its Essential Putting Analysis, which allows you to track putting data without calibration and store all of your shot data on Foresight’s cloud storage system. Removable batteries, built-in WiFi and a alignment stick are an added bonus as well. The only downside: the app experience is a bit dated. That said, it’s free and features table averages, therefore we often use this model in our extensive testing!
Best set up process
(Image credit: Mike Bailey)
One of the easiest models to set up, the MLM2PRO works well as a launch monitor and simulator
Specifications
Technology: Dual optical camera vision + radar
Weight : N/A
Data: Multiple data points, including smash factor, club speed, launch angle and carry
Battery Life: 4 hours
Portable: Yes
Reasons to buy+
Easy to set up
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Can be used indoors or outdoors
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Integrated video, including slow motion Impact Vision camera
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Works well as a simulator
Reasons to avoid-
Spin and rotation metrics aren’t a given
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Requires a membership after the first year to retain the best features
We now have another Rapsodo model that is worthy of this guide, the MLM2PRO which is incredibly easy to set up and use. It also measures most everything you need and shows both 3-D and 2-D views.
It comes with a protective case, which will easily fit inside a golf bag and it includes a cleverly designed tripod, a user manual, and golf balls. In testing, we found that it doesn’t track the ball all the way to the ground, but with a combination of Doppler Radar and the cameras, it does track it for a large portion of its ball flight to come up with the curvature and height of the shot. You will also get data on carry distance, clubhead speed, ball speed, and launch angle, from which it extrapolates total distance.
With this monitor you also get a year of its Premium Membership, which provides access to 30,000 simulator courses and other special features like “Virtual Driving Range,” as well as its unique “Impact Vision” camera, which is a major upgrade over the original Rapsodo Mobile launch monitor. The MLM2PRO also works with android mobile devices, too, now instead of just IOS devices. After the first year, Premium Membership is $199 annually.
Best battery life
The SC300i has a large display and speaker
(Image credit: Mike Bailey)
A compact, versatile radar-based option that can be used indoor and out
Specifications
Technology: Doppler Radar
Data: Swing/Ball speed, launch, apex, smash, carry
Weight: 437g
Battery Life: 20 hours
Portable: Yes
Reasons to buy+
Accurate, especially outdoors
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Large display
+
Fairly easy to set up
+
Video feature with stats overlay on app
Reasons to avoid-
A little larger and heavier than the competition, so not quite as convenient to put in a golf bag
While you may have heard of it’s predecessor the SC300, the SC300i is updated with a Doppler Radar system and atmospheric pressure sensors, making it one of the more accurate, budget portable launch monitors.
The SC300i connects directly to its (free) MySwingCaddieV2 app for real-time performance tracking. They’ve even added voice output option and a remote control for enhanced user convenience. Additionally, and most importantly, in our testing, we found the SC300i was deadly accurate. This is largely due to hardware advancements such as the barometric sensor which is a game-changer for monitoring distance, swing speed and clubhead speed outdoors. It even compared well to the top end of the launch market.
The SC300i’s real differentiator is its 20-hour battery life. This is a significant advancement from the 12 hours of battery offered by the previous model. Unfortunately it doesn’t measure clubhead path but we didn’t find that to be a huge compromise. If you’re after a portable launch monitor with more features, take a look at our best portable launch monitors. For under $600, we think the SC300i is an incredibly accurate portable launch monitor with unbelievable battery performance.
Specifications TableSwipe to scroll horizontallyModelTechnologyWeightBatteryTrackman 4 Launch MonitorDual Radar sensors and camera sensors2.8kg4+ hoursRapsodo Mobile Launch MonitorRadar and camera depends on phone256g8 hoursFull Swing Kit Launch Monitor4K camera with 1080p output, Doppler radarN/A5 hoursGarmin Approach R10 Launch MonitorRadar221g10 hoursPRGR Portable Launch MonitorDoppler radar125gN/AFlightscope Mevo+ Launch MonitorDoppler radar465g2 hoursForesight Sports GCQuad4 Quadrascopic cameras and integrated infrared light3.8kg6-8 hoursRapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor Dual optical camera vision + radarN/A4 hoursSwing Caddie SC300i Launch MonitorDoppler radar437g20 hoursHow we test
We test all golf technology as comprehensively as possible to gauge performance over time and 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, aiming 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. No one brand ever gets preferential treatment over another, nor can a manufacturer ‘buy’ a good review – we simply call it how we see it based on our knowledge of previous items we have tested and what we knower other passionate golfers want from different products, whether that be launch monitors, clubs or anything else.
How to choose a launch monitor
There are a range of factors to consider when making a checklist of what you want your launch monitor to have. Here are the ones we think are most important to consider before making a purchase:
Accuracy
Obviously, accuracy is of the upmost importance. You won’t get much benefit from a launch monitor if it is feeding you incorrect information, in fact it could damage 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 give you the same metrics. The best cheap launch monitors give you the basics – ball speed, club head speed, carry distance etc. 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 offer 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
Some monitors come with more features than others. Of course, the more features you want, the higher the price. If you’re simply looking data feedback from your swing then you can stick to the cheaper end of the price scale but some of the premium models have fantastic features like games and challenges. Some even let you compete against your friends in a series of practice-based matches!
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.
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.
FAQsAre 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 monitor do the pros use at the range?
Since the pros aren’t paying for their devices, albeit if they were we doubt it would dent their bank balance too much, they almost all use the upmost premium models – the Trackman 4, Foresight Sports GCQuad and Full Swing Kit are all commonly seen on practice ranges on the professional tours and are trusted by the best players and coaches in the world of golf.
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.
