The advent of the launch monitor has changed how golfers practice. Take a look at the range during any tournament and you’ll see players, coaches and even caddies routinely checking a screen for instant feedback.
While they generally aren’t cheap, their growth in popularity has helped them to become more affordable, with a variety of options now available. The result is that the insights once only on offer to the lucky few are now available to many more of us, some of which coming in ultra-portable packages as well.
Just like the best golf GPS apps, launch monitors aren’t just applicable to pros or scratch and low single-digit handicap amateurs. 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. Armed with this knowledge you can better tackle the root causes of your problems, while continuing to sharpen the strengths of your game.
Given the breadth of devices on the market, determining the right one for you isn’t straightforward. That’s why our team of testers have put a number of the best launch monitors through their paces to better help you in your search.
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
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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 Table
| Model | Technology | Weight | Battery |
| Trackman 4 Launch Monitor | Dual Radar sensors and camera sensors | 2.8kg | 4+ hours |
| Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor | Radar and camera depends on phone | 256g | 8 hours |
| Full Swing Kit Launch Monitor | 4K camera with 1080p output, Doppler radar | N/A | 5 hours |
| Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor | Radar | 221g | 10 hours |
| PRGR Portable Launch Monitor | Doppler radar | 125g | N/A |
| Flightscope Mevo+ Launch Monitor | Doppler radar | 465g | 2 hours |
| Foresight Sports GCQuad | 4 Quadrascopic cameras and integrated infrared light | 3.8kg | 6-8 hours |
| Rapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor | Dual optical camera vision + radar | N/A | 4 hours |
| Swing Caddie SC300i Launch Monitor | Doppler radar | 437g | 20 hours |
How 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. As you would expect, this involves using different models regularly, and in different situations to see how the technology performs. A good example is using a monitor inside/outside, or in different types of weather. Of course many of the launch monitors also get used a lot because we do so much club testing as well.
As the entire team are regular golfers, golf technology gets a thorough test and often get compared to one another side by side to test for things like accuracy, ease of use, durability and other features. That way we can give honest and insightful feedback to you, the reader. The final thing we wanted to mention in this section is no manufacturer can buy a good review. Our testing team reviews golf equipment and makes its own opinion on how good or bad the product is.
How to choose a launch monitor
When discussing the best golf launch monitors there are a number of factors to consider. Let’s take a look at them.
Accuracy
This is the most important factor to consider because if a launch monitor isn’t accurate then it is useless. Obviously the premium models at the top of this page are the best in this regard but you can also get more budget-friendly models with good accuracy, like the Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor for example.
Metrics
Most devices these days give insight into metrics like ball speed, club head speed and carry distance however if you are looking for more specific club head data, and metrics like 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
Linking with the above point, there are models with more features compared to others. Of course for most of the models we tested, measuring the golf ball’s flight was the main purpose but some units offered the opportunity for simulator play, GPS functionality, or the ability to record your swing. Some also have games too.
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
This is a big factor because when we have the time to practice, we don’t want to waste any of it trying to work out technological issues. This makes the smaller devices like the Swing Caddie SC300i and Rapsodo particularly appealing.
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.
FAQs
Are 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.
Is it worth getting a launch monitor?
The answer to this question kind of depends on what level you are as a golfer. If you are beginner, then your money will best be used purchasing lessons from a PGA professional whereas if you are an aspiring professional they can prove invaluable because of the information given. Additionally we also think low to mid-handicap players can learn and improve by using launch monitors as well, and this is made possible because of the variety of models at different price points currently on the market.
What launch monitor do the pros use at the range?
From our experience we have noticed a lot of players using launch monitors from Trackman, Foresight Sports and Full Swing. The Trackman 4, Foresight Sports GCQuad and Full Swing Kit are the models we see the most regularly.
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.
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