Best Golf Simulator Setup Under $2,000
Think a home golf simulator setup is out of reach? Think again. With a budget under $2K, you can create a setup that punches way above its price—a solid bang for your buck that lets you work on your game and play some of the best courses in the world from your living room.
Great experience on a budget: Enjoy all the benefits of a high-quality simulator without breaking the bank.
High-quality gear and equipment: We’re focusing on the core components of a budget-friendly setup, plus a few variations and upgrades to customize your build.
In this article, we'll dive into our favorite setup for under $2K. We’ll walk through each component, discuss what makes it a great value, and then suggest a few tweaks if you’re looking to upgrade or even push that total investment down towards $1K. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just starting out —your dream golf simulator is within reach.
Let’s dive in. Here’s our recommended Best Setup Under $2K—a combo that balances quality, portability, and feedback to help you work on your swing.
Best Setup Under $2K
Garmin R10
Launch Monitor: Garmin R10 – $599
Why we love it:
Delivers highly accurate ball tracking and flight data
Compact and portable, perfect for small spaces
Easy to set up and use with minimal calibration, and compatibility with the best simulator softwares
The Garmin R10 is the core of the setup. Tremendous value with a ton of great tech and features. It may not have quite as many data points as the premium units, but it provides plenty of highly accurate data that delivers everything you need for a full simulator experience, as well as shot insights and feedback that can help you improve your game. Additionally, its portability and long battery life mean you can easily bring it along to dial in your distances at the range before your round.
Mat: Country Club Elite – $479
Why we love it:
Realistic turf feel
Durable
Easy to roll out and store
A good mat is key to your setup. The Country Club Elite mat provides a realistic feel, and is specifically to absorb the impact of your swing which can really save your wrists in those long grind-sessions you’ll soon be having.
Net/Screen: Spornia SPG-7 with Projector Add-on ~$340
Why we love it:
Quality materials
Easy to set up and store away
The Spornia SPG-7 is well known as a quality net that can withstand all your drives, and pull in the miss-hits that don’t quite find the center of the clubface. Plus, the projector add-on for only $40 makes this a no-brainer.
Projector [Optional]: Happrun HD [$99]
Why we love it:
Easy to set up and use
Flexible connectivity
Good picture for the price
Generally, you get what you pay for with a projector. In the budget world of projectors, you’re not going to get a brilliant 4K picture. But, you can still get a solid output that lets you see your ball flight and all the juicy data. There are hundreds of options on Amazon - this is one that we have found to be easy to use and super reliable.
Computer[Optional]: iPad (Used/Refurbished)
Many already have a computer or ipad that will work great with the Garmin R10 - or even your phone can work as well. However, if you need an option, or just want a dedicated device for your setup, we recommend finding a used ipad for the best bang for your buck.
Software (Optional): E6 Connect Lite
Why we love it:
E6 Connect Provides additional course options
Garmin’s free software works great for driving range and basic usage
The Garmin R10 provides you with all of your shot data without a subscription. It also comes with a few courses you can play. However, if you want to have access to additional courses, you’ll need a software subscription. There are several options available, and we generally say simple is better for these types of setups.
Alternates & Upgrades
While our main build hits the sweet spot under $2,000, you might want to explore a few smart upgrades or budget-friendly swaps depending on your space, priorities, or performance goals. Here are the best alternate options and step-up choices for each component of your setup:
Launch Monitor Upgrades & Alternatives
Rapsodo MLM2PRO – A great alternate at a similar price point with video feedback and outdoor use, though not ideal for small indoor setups.
SkyTrak+ – Ideal for tighter indoor spaces thanks to its side-mounted camera system; it's more expensive but delivers strong data and software compatibility.
FlightScope Mevo+ – A powerful radar-based upgrade with excellent data, simulation software support, and great outdoor functionality.
Uneekor Eye Mini Lite – For those looking to seriously upgrade, this delivers incredible data in a portable, camera-based unit—great for low-lag, detailed feedback.
Mat Upgrades & Alternatives
GoSports Mat – If you're tight on budget, this Amazon option gives a basic hitting surface at a much lower price.
SwingTurf Hitting Strip – Highly rated for shock absorption and feel; perfect for building your own hitting platform and pairing with turf to customize the look and performance.
Net Upgrades & Alternatives
DIY Enclosure Kit – If you want that immersive feel on a budget, this kit is your answer. Tons a value and a premium feeling end-product.
Net Return Pro Series – Highly rated and used by professionals. A basic looking net that can handle all your shots, and brings the durability that will last a long, long time.
Projector Upgrades & Alternatives
Optoma ZW350ST – Short-throw projector from one of the best brands with solid brightness and image quality for golf sim setups.
TV or Tablet Display – Skip the projector altogether. Many golfers use a wall-mounted TV or iPad to keep the cost down while still enjoying simulator software.
Computer Upgrades & Alternatives
Gaming PC – If you're using simulation software like GSPro, upgrading to a gaming PC ensures smooth graphics, faster load times, and better realism. These can be pricey for this type of setup, but we recommend the following specs as minimums:
Ram: 8 GB | CPU: Intel i5 | Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1650 or AMD RX 580 | Storage: 128 GB SSD
Final Thoughts
Building a home golf simulator setup might seem out of reach, but it’s more attainable than ever. Thanks to rapid advances in launch monitor technology, everyday golfers now have access to data and feedback that was once reserved for tour pros. With just a modest investment, you can create a space that lets you practice, play, and improve year-round.
This under-$2K setup is a fantastic starting point—simple, effective, and flexible. And the best part? Every component can be upgraded over time. Whether it's adding a better hitting mat, upgrading to a more advanced launch monitor, or going full-send on a full enclosure and projector, you're building a foundation that grows with you and your game.
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to build your home simulator, this might just be your sign to tee it up.
