Building a home golf simulator can feel overwhelming with hundreds of product options, conflicting advice online, and a wide range of price points. The good news is that the core decisions are straightforward once you understand the basics. You need four things: a way to track your ball (launch monitor), a way to see the result (display), a surface to hit from (mat), and software to run the simulation. Everything else—enclosures, mounting hardware, accessories—builds on these foundations. Start by understanding your constraints (room size, budget, goals), then work through each decision systematically. Most builder regret comes from skipping the planning phase and buying incompatible components.
If You Only Remember 3 Things
- Measure your space first — Room dimensions determine which components will work; ceiling height is the most common limiting factor
- Set a realistic budget range — Entry setups start around $2,000; mid-range builds run $5,000–$12,000; premium setups exceed $15,000
- Buy components that work together — Launch monitor choice affects software options; display choice affects room requirements
Start with Your Space
Measure your room carefully. Width, depth, and ceiling height all matter. Use our Room Fit tool to check if your space works before shopping for components.
Key dimensions to measure:
- Width (wall to wall, subtracting obstructions)
- Depth (from hitting position to back wall)
- Ceiling height (lowest point, including fixtures)
Set a Realistic Budget
Golf simulators range from $2,000 to $30,000+. Decide what you can invest upfront and what you might upgrade later. The launch monitor typically takes 40–60% of your budget.
Choose Your Core Components
Every simulator needs:
- A launch monitor (tracks ball and/or club data)
- A display (TV or projector + screen)
- A hitting mat (protects your joints)
- Simulation software (shows courses and games)
Start with these four. Add enclosures, lighting, and accessories later.
Decision Checklist
Before you buy anything:
- [ ] Measure room dimensions at least twice
- [ ] Run measurements through the Room Fit tool
- [ ] Set a maximum budget (including software subscriptions)
- [ ] Decide: TV or projector display?
- [ ] Research launch monitors in your budget range
- [ ] Verify software compatibility with your chosen launch monitor
Common Mistakes
Mistake: Buying equipment before measuring the room Why it matters: Incompatible dimensions are the #1 cause of returns and frustration How to avoid: Use the Room Fit tool with exact measurements before any purchase
Mistake: Forgetting about ongoing costs Why it matters: Software subscriptions can add $300–$600 per year How to avoid: Include at least one year of software in your budget calculation
Mistake: Prioritizing brand names over room fit Why it matters: The "best" launch monitor won't work if your room can't accommodate it How to avoid: Filter products by your room constraints first, then compare within those options
Advanced: Build Planning Strategy
Phase your build if budget is tight: Many successful simulator owners start with a basic setup and upgrade over time. A phased approach might look like:
- Phase 1: Entry-level launch monitor + large TV + quality mat
- Phase 2: Upgrade software subscription for more courses
- Phase 3: Add enclosure netting for safety
- Phase 4: Upgrade to projector + impact screen when ready
Component interdependencies:
- Radar launch monitors work in shorter rooms (12'+ depth)
- Camera-based systems need more depth (15'+) and proper lighting
- Projector setups need higher ceilings (9'+) than TV setups
- Some software only works with specific launch monitor brands
When to use the Builder wizard: The Builder tool asks ~10 questions about your space, budget, and preferences, then recommends a complete build archetype. Use it to get a baseline recommendation, then research individual components within that framework.
How This Affects Your Build
Understanding these fundamentals helps you make informed decisions as you move through the builder wizard. Each component choice impacts your total budget, space requirements, and overall simulator experience. Take time to plan before you purchase.