What is a home golf simulator?
It’s a tool that lets you hit real shots inside your house while seeing ball flight and course visuals on a screen. Sensors track the swing; software fills in the rest. You swing, the system does the math, and a virtual course reacts.
How much room do I need?
You’ll want enough space to swing freely without knocking a light fixture. For most setups:
Width: 10 feet
Depth 10 feet
Height: 9 feet (more if you’re tall or using a driver)
Rooms with pitched ceilings or open garage doors can give extra breathing room.
Can I build one in my garage or basement?
Yes. These spaces are popular picks. Just check the floor is level and dry. Concrete garage floors benefit from a mat to save your joints.
How accurate is it?
It depends on the monitor. A $500 sensor won’t read like a $5,000 radar system. But even entry-level systems give useful feedback on swing speed, ball path, and launch angle.
How noisy is it?
Loud thuds from real balls are normal. Garages buffer the sound better than rooms with wood floors. Foam balls help. So do impact mats with sound-deadening foam.
Can I install it myself?
If you can hang a picture frame and plug in a laptop, you can install most systems. Wall mounting projectors or building enclosures may take a bit more skill.
Can beginners or kids use it?
Definitely. Set up different tee boxes, slow down the swing speed expectations, and let them get the feel for the game at home.
Does weather matter?
Not at all. The simulator’s ready rain or shine, day or night. If your garage gets cold, a space heater keeps things playable in winter.
How much does it cost?
Starter kits land near $1,000. Mid-range builds sit around $5,000. Premium rigs climb past $20,000. What changes the price? Launch monitor quality, screen setup, and course software.
What gear do I need?
At minimum:
- A launch monitor
- A hitting mat
- A net or screen
- A projector or TV
- Simulation software
- A laptop or tablet to run it all
Do I need to use real golf balls?
No. You can swap in foam or limited-flight balls to reduce bounce, sound, and risk. Just be sure the launch monitor supports them.
Can I use it for practice, not just playing courses?
Absolutely. Range mode gives raw data. Some software lets you isolate specific shots—like dialing in wedge distances or fixing a slice.
Can I play real courses?
Yes. Dozens of real courses have been digitally recreated. Want to try Augusta or St. Andrews from your basement? With the right software, you can.
Can the room still serve another purpose?
Yes. Foldable nets, retractable screens, and portable mats make it easy to convert the room back into a gym, guest room, or workshop.
Is it safe to swing indoors?
If you have clearance above and behind you, yes. Use a mirror or camera during setup to check for hazards. Many golfers misjudge ceiling height—measure first, regret never.
Will it improve my game?
Yes—if you pay attention. Real-time feedback reveals swing flaws that the driving range might hide. Used regularly, it becomes more than entertainment.