Budget Golf Simulator Setup ($1,000 or less)
Beginner Friendly | Ultra Affordable | DIY Sim Starter Pack
Who This Setup Is For
This setup is designed for golfers who are just getting started, have a tight budget, or want to test the waters before committing to a full sim bay. If you want to work on your game from home without breaking the bank, this build gives you real tracking, a safe place to hit, and a realistic strike feel—all for under $1,000.
🧰 DIY beginners
🏠 Small spaces or multipurpose rooms
💸 Budget: under $1,000 total
🎯 Focus: Practice, swing drills, distance gapping
📲 Using a tablet or phone as display
Recommended Setup
Launch Monitor
$599
Portable and accurate - great for game improvement. You’ll get plenty of data and insights, and can easily pair with software for full course play. A tremendous value for well under $1K.
Mat
Budget-friendly mat that offers good feel and enough surface area for casual use. Lightweight and easy to roll up.
Net
Super compact and durable. Easy to set up indoors or outdoors, and folds down small. Perfect for tight setups.
Projector
None — Save the cash—just mirror your phone, iPad, tablet, or extra laptop to a TV or use it as your primary screen.
Computer & Software
Use Garmin’s built-in app. Garmin’s app works with phones/tablets, or connect to E6 Starter on iPad for simulation play.
Total Estimated Cost: ~$1,000
Optional Add-Ons
Connect to TV
Use a HDMI adapter or screen mirroring for a larger visual display next to your hitting area.DIY Hitting Platform
Build a wood frame to secure your mat and level your setup.Upgrade to Simulation Software
Add GSPro, E6, Awesome Golf, or Home Tee Hero for full course play.
Upgrades and Alternates
Looking to tweak your budget build or planning to scale up over time? Here are some solid alternates and upgrades for each core component to help you customize your setup based on your space, goals, or future upgrades.
Launch Monitor
Rapsodo MLM2PRO [$699] Great accuracy and dual-camera visuals with swing replay—great value for the price.
SQUARE Launch Monitor: [$699] A newer player in the space with promising data tracking and portability. A camera-based system: fantastic for tight spaces.
Golf Mat
Alternate: SwingTurf Hitting Strip [$99]– A more compact, affordable version of the full mat with realistic feel.
Budget Option: Repurpose a turf strip or mat section from a local home improvement store—just make sure it has shock absorption.
Upgrade: SwingTurf Full Mat [$399]– Offers excellent durability and joint protection with a true fairway-like feel.
Net
Upgrade: Net Return Pro Large [$795] – Larger net. Endorsed by the pros. High quality, and extremely easy to use.
Alternate: Net Return Pro V2 [$195]– Strong, clean-looking option with great durability and stability.
Budget Option: GoSports Net - [$89] 10'x7' Golf Net – Great entry point for hitting indoors or in the backyard.
