Golf Simulator Launch Monitor Comparison 2026: Which Technology Fits Your Setup?
Radar vs. photometric vs. infrared: launch monitor technology shapes everything about your simulator data quality. Here is how to choose based on your space, budget, and game.
The launch monitor is the brain of your simulator. Here is how radar, photometric, and infrared technologies differ and which one to choose.
Radar-Based Launch Monitors
Radar systems (Doppler) like TrackMan and FlightScope track the ball from impact through the full ball flight arc. They are highly accurate for carry distance, spin, and shot shape. Downsides: they need space behind the ball for the radar to work (typically 8 to 10 feet minimum), and they can struggle with very short shots or chips indoors where ball flight is truncated.
Photometric Systems
Camera-based systems like Foresight GCQuad and GC3 use high-speed cameras to capture the ball and club at impact. They work well in any space and do not require full ball flight. They are strong on spin rate and face angle data. Premium photometric systems deliver near-radar accuracy and are often preferred for indoor simulators because they have no minimum distance requirement behind the unit.
Infrared and Optical Budget Options
Entry-level simulators use infrared sensors or simpler optical cameras (Mevo, R10 at lower price points). They are accurate enough for recreational play but lack the spin axis and club path detail that serious players need. For casual use or improving basic shot shape, they deliver good value at a fraction of the premium price.
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