Golf requires constant practice, reinvention and learning in order to become the best player you can be. At some point, it can become quite difficult trying to understand what adjustments you need to make in order to see that growth on the golf course. Luckily, golf launch monitors can be a helpful tool to help you lower your score.
There are a wide variety of launch monitors for golf available on the market today, and they all come equipped with a host of different bells and whistles that can pinpoint areas of opportunity throughout your game.
Are you trying to improve your handicap? Do you need to maximize swing speed for increased distance? Are you simply looking for the best opportunities to make par? Golf launch monitors can help answer a number of golf-related questions, and they can do so almost instantaneously.
With the plethora of choices available, it can be challenging trying to find the golf launch monitor that meets your unique needs. That’s why it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for so you make the decision that has the greatest impact on your performance.
Of course, there are key data points and features that separate launch monitors. Ultimately, what you find most useful for your individual game is what will decide which launch monitor is right for you. Golfzon is here to help you figure out what features you could want in a golf launch monitor.
Before we dive into those features, however, let’s quickly review what a launch monitor for golf is and why you’ll want to consider one in the first place.
What Is a Launch Monitor for Golf?
A golf launch monitor is an electronic system or device that tracks and analyzes your golf shot. These devices calculate a variety of measurements based on your swing, moment of impact, ball flight and more to help you improve your golf game.
From swing speed to launch angle, distance, spin rate and shot shape, some of the best golf launch monitors on the market provide extremely accurate analyses of your gameplay so you can adjust and improve with relevant suggestions and data points.
How Do Golf Launch Monitors Work?
Golf launch monitors pull data quickly and accurately, populating within seconds of impact. These monitors use radar or high-speed camera technology to sense how the ball will move once you make contact with your clubface.
The device then makes a calculated projection based on how the ball was hit, when, from what angle and with the power gathered from the swing. These insights paint a very clear picture of your shot so you can take the necessary next steps to make improvements.
How Can a Golf Launch Monitor Improve Your Game?
No matter your skill level, there’s always room to grow your golf game, whether you’ve entered into your lowest handicap phase or you’re just getting into the swing of things.
One of the best ways to improve is with the help of a launch monitor. These devices can quickly and accurately depict how you’re attacking the ball to provide insights into what you need to do to see more accurate – and consistent – shots.
By analyzing key metrics, you can note your patterns and tendencies and arm yourself with the raw data needed to make a change. Whether you feel comfortable with the trial-and-error method on your own with your launch monitor or would rather meet with a PGA Professional, your insights will have a huge impact on your game. The best launch monitors in golf will give you every data point you need to make a real difference.
Launch monitors can also help you see if the golf clubs you have are right for you. Some monitors can provide feedback on every golf club in your bag, showing you potential club gaps and where you can gain more distance or accuracy.
Some of these devices can help you improve your short game, too; as a common area where we could all afford to shave some strokes, this is a very useful feature to look for in a golf launch monitor. With routine practice, you can learn immediately how to tackle that next chip shot or putt.
There’s also something to be said about the flexibility golf launch monitors provide. Weather is always a factor with golf, and having the ability to practice inside – day or night or in the offseason – really opens up your options. The ability to continue improving your game from the comfort of an indoor range or your own home is immensely impactful, giving you the confidence you need to succeed.
Knowing how much of a difference a golf launch monitor can make on your game, it’s equally important to know what to look for when you decide to make the purchase. Here are 8 key factors that can help determine which launch monitor is right for you and your game.
8 Features to Look for When Buying a Golf Launch Monitor
You could easily spend hours, if not days and weeks diving into each and every golf launch monitor that exists on the market today. Some are cheap, accurate and simple. Others are bulky, intuitive and robust – coming with an alarmingly-high price tag.
But ultimately, what makes the best golf launch monitor is what it can do for you, and only you can decide on what that is.
When you start your search, keep these 8 features in mind so you can make the most informed decision possible:
- Golf Ball Data Points
- Golf Club Data Points
- Software
- Price
- Interface
- Portability
- Indoor vs. Outdoor
- Extra Features
1. Golf Ball Data Points Provide In-Depth Insights
Data tells a compelling story that leads to improvement, which is why it’s important to choose a golf launch monitor that covers all angles. Some key ball flight data points include:
- Ball speed
- Launch angle
- Launch direction
- Spin rate
- Max height (apex)
- Carry distance
- Shot shape
- Landing angle
- Hang time
- Total distance
- And more
This data is incredibly insightful, helping you better understand how you’re attacking the ball and what impact you’re making with your swing. You’d be surprised how small tweaks can significantly change where your ball lands on the fairway or green.
For those new to the game, these data points can provide insights into the sport itself, understanding how your swing speed can impact ball speed, angle and direction. This facilitates a truly engaging learning experience through interactive practice sessions that can take you from good to great.
2. Golf Club Data Points Help You Make Necessary Adjustments
In addition to analyzing and projecting your ball’s path, launch monitors can also provide an analysis of your clubhead and clubface. Data collected includes:
- Club speed
- Club path
- Attack angle
- Face angle
- And more
This data can help you adjust your grip, shift your stance and decide which club is right for a given shot. This data can also identify if the set of golf clubs you’re using is actually beneficial, or if you could benefit from another line or brand. Of course, getting fitted for golf clubs is best left to a professional, but trying out those golf clubs on your own time can help you feel more confident about your decision.
There’s an art to angling your swing plane and squaring your clubface at impact – and that combination is different for everyone. Understanding what improvements can be made can aid in your shot-shaping game so you can gain more control and improve that accuracy and consistency across all 18 holes.
3. Software Can Change Your Golfing Experience
When it comes to software, you want a golf launch monitor that is up-to-date, incorporating innovative technologies and upgrades to ensure you’re getting the most out of your practice experience. You don’t want to be left in the dust with aging technology.
Different brands offer different software, from the radar or imaging technology used to track your club and golf ball to the graphics, layout design and overall interface of the screen itself. Some launch monitors provide a system through which you can see your data while others connect with smartphone and tablet applications to let you see your data and progress from anywhere.
Understanding the most intuitive way to gather and absorb this golf information is essential to see results. Knowing if virtual golf courses are available can also be a huge plus, as they can add some variety to your practice and even help you make a DIY golf simulator at home.
4. Price Plays a Role
Price is another key factor that can make a huge difference when comparing some of the best golf launch monitors. On the low end, players can expect to pay a lower price for a golf monitor that offers enough data points to see improvements but may be lacking great software.
However, some of the high-end golf monitors, with robust data, immaculate software and additional features for improved accuracy and consistency can cost upwards of $20,000 or more.
Finding that price point sweet spot is a game changer, giving you the knowledge and freedom to compare versions, lines and brands to see which can give you the most for your dollar. Some brands do a great job of balancing the software quality and the price, and those are a special find.
You need to keep price in mind when you start your research so you can set parameters. This will allow you to see which devices, within your budget, tick the most boxes and provide the most rewarding experience for you and your game.
5. An Intuitive Interface Makes Analysis a Breeze
Another important feature to look for is the launch monitor’s physical interface. Is the screen easy to read, does it effectively display the information you’re looking for and does it allow you to dig deeper with ease?
It’s important that you don’t have to fight with your device to see results. Make sure the launch monitor you choose makes graphics and interface a priority. Many launch monitors also connect with your mobile device – another feature that can make for an intuitive experience great for golfers looking to improve on and off the golf course.
6. Portability Can Be a Determining Factor
Golf launch monitors are made for a variety of situations and conditions. Some are built strictly for indoor play, using radar and imaging to pull data as you hit your ball into a net. Others utilize their technology to evaluate key club and ball data points as you hit your ball outdoors on the driving range. Some allow for both.
When deciding on a golf launch monitor, it’s important to understand how and where you want to use it. This will make it clear whether you need a more permanent setup, or a portable launch monitor that is versatile enough to be taken from game room to golf course quickly and easily.
Understanding portability will help make that decision that much simpler – even if you just want the flexibility to move it from room to garage. Additionally, if you’re wanting to build your own indoor golf simulator setup, that might make portability less of a priority.
7. Confirm Indoor vs. Outdoor Launch Monitor Accuracy
In addition to understanding how portable your golf launch monitor can be, another feature to think about is accuracy when using your launch monitor indoors, outdoors or both. Some golf launch monitors are better suited to provide data inside with a net while others excel outside on a driving range.
Explore the technical specifications to better understand how your setting can affect your launch monitor’s data.
8. Extra Features and Equipment Make a Difference
Some of the best launch monitors come with added bells and whistles to create a truly well-rounded golfing experience. When deciding which gear is right for you, it’s always nice to see what additional benefits are available.
Some golf launch monitors come equipped with a full setup, including nets, mats and connectivity options that allow you to create your own, personalized experience all in one place and purchase.
Others provide you with the software and hardware essential for data collecting, but rely on you to bring the additional equipment to the table.
Additionally, features like mini games, smartphone and tablet apps, and a variety of golf courses can make the difference between a good launch monitor and a great golfing experience.
Ultimately, there’s a ton to consider when it comes to choosing the launch monitor that will create that impactful experience. With these features in mind, you are one step closer to making your decision and finalizing that purchase.
For those looking to improve their game, Golfzon has a variety of options, including golf simulators and our golf launch monitor, the Wave.
The Wave is a Great Option for Golf Lovers
The Wave is an all-in-one golf launch monitor built to maximize your performance on the golf course.
Our revolutionary monitoring system comes equipped with radar-backed ball flight parameters – 34 data points to be exact. These include club speed, ball speed, spin rate, carry distance and more.
In addition, players can expect a revolutionary putting mat that provides increased accuracy. Whether you’re looking to improve your long game or short game, Golfzon’s Wave launch monitor can help you see that progress – a very unique offering you won’t find anywhere else.
Because we want to provide immersive, exciting experiences, the Wave provides over 100 famous golf courses to play. You don’t have to leave the comfort of your home – or pay a ton of money each time – to experience the thrill of playing at Pebble Beach.
The Wave is portable, durable, versatile and accessible thanks to the Wave Skills App that allows you to see all of your data on your smartphone or device.
How is the Wave Different From Golfzon Virtual Golf Simulators?
Golf launch monitors and golf simulators are two very different devices offering different experiences. However, Golfzon technology makes the Wave a strong software contender that could easily substitute as the base for a DIY golf simulator setup.
Golf simulators like our TwoVision golf simulator provide an all-encompassing, indoor golfing experience. High-speed sensors track, monitor and analyze your golf swing, point of impact and ball flight to provide the most accurate replica of a game of golf you can experience without actually being at the driving range or golf course. You can play 18 holes in no time on a course halfway across the globe.
Launch monitors are different, though they do provide some similarities. While they do provide accurate results, analyzing similar data points to show you where your ball will land and why, launch monitors are often more mobile, providing more of a learning experience than an immersive game. Portable launch monitors for golf like the Wave are key for gathering data and improving performance more so than solely for enjoyment.
That being said, the Wave is different from other launch monitors in that it capitalizes on Golfzon’s proprietary golf simulator software to offer you 100+ golf courses on your launch monitor. With Golfzon golf simulators being the best on the market, it’s no surprise some features have been replicated on the Wave.
Not only that, but golf launch monitors are oftentimes much more affordable than their simulator counterparts. If you’re looking to grow and develop your game on more of a budget, the Wave launch monitor can get you where you’re hoping to go.
Learn more about our award-winning golf simulators to decide if a launch monitor or a golf simulator is right for you.
Take Your Game to the Next Level With a Top-Quality Golf Launch Monitor
Everyone can score on the golf course, it just takes practice. The biggest hurdle many players find themselves faced with is understanding what kind of practice will make the greatest impact.
That’s where golf launch monitors come in. They’re typically portable, robust, durable and accurate, giving you real-time insights into how you can level up your game from the location of your choice.
However, due to the large number of devices to choose from, it can be easy to get lost. Keeping in mind the data points you want to pinpoint, your budget, where you want to use your device and how you want it to interact with you and your surroundings can help you make that next decision with ease.
Golfzon is here to answer any questions you may have around the advanced technology of the Wave golf launch monitor, offered at a competitive price.