February 11, 2023 - GOLF SIMULATOR NEWS

GSN - "Best Launch Monitor under $1000 in 2023"

The Garmin R10 punches above its weight class in value based on a price to performance ratio. If you are looking for budget launch monitor for your golf simulator or to practice on the range, this is the one you want.

Garmin R10 Review and Buying Guide

The Garmin Approach R10 is a compact and portable launch monitor that provides golfers with accurate data on their shots. It’s designed to help golfers improve their game and track their performance, as well as provide a fun and interactive experience. The R10 is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, and the companion Garmin Golf app, which is required to use the R10, is free to download. However, a paid membership is available, costing $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year, which provides access to additional features such as Home Tee Hero golf simulation, weekly tournaments, and the ability to store video clips in the cloud.

The R10 unit itself costs $599.99 and comes with a tripod stand, phone mount, carrying case, and Micro USB cable. The device works by capturing data from the ball using radar technology and providing the golfer with information such as ball speed, spin rate, launch angle, and carry distance. The R10 is compatible with Titleist Pro V1 and V1x RCT (radar capture technology) golf balls, which provide the most accurate indoor spin readings possible. The Titleist RCT balls are pricey at around $65/dozen, but they offer a significant improvement in accuracy compared to regular golf balls.

Software Compatibility with the Garmin R10

In addition to the Garmin Golf app, the R10 is also compatible with the E6 CONNECT software, which is an advanced golf simulation software. A basic 1-year subscription to E6 CONNECT costs $300, an expanded 1-year subscription costs $600, and a permanent license costs $2,500. While the simulation capabilities of Home Tee Hero, which is part of the Garmin Golf membership, may be sufficient for most R10 users, others may prefer the advanced gameplay and graphics offered by E6 CONNECT.

One of the most interesting features of the R10 is its compatibility with the PinSeeker app. PinSeeker is a unique app that runs closest-to-the-pin tournaments through E6 CONNECT. It offers two types of tournaments: free tournaments, which are held multiple times a day and allow golfers to practice their game and win prizes, and cash tournaments, which have an entry fee and pay out cash prizes that are matched and sent to charity. The app is available for download on both iOS and Android devices and is open to anyone using a compatible simulator, not just R10 users.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Garmin Approach R10 is a great investment for golfers looking to improve their game and have a fun and interactive experience. Its compact and portable design, combined with accurate data and compatibility with advanced golf simulation software, make it a versatile and useful device. The PinSeeker app also provides a unique opportunity to compete against other golfers and possibly recoup some or all of the cost of the R10 unit and E6 CONNECT software, depending on how good of a golfer you are. However, the high cost of the E6 CONNECT software may be a drawback for some, as well as the pricey Titleist RCT golf balls.

Despite these potential downsides, the R10 is a well-designed and well-rounded launch monitor that provides golfers with valuable information and a fun and interactive experience.

The Garmin R10 is our best rated launch monitor under $1000 for 2023. The price to performance ratio is unmatched in the current market. If you are looking to get started in the world of golf simulation, this is a viable option and will definitely improve your golf game.

Features and Specifications of the Garmin R10

Feature/Specification	Description
Price	$599.99 USD
Compatibility	iOS and Android devices, Titleist Pro V1 and V1x RCT golf balls
Required Software	Garmin Golf app, E6 CONNECT software (optional)
In the Box	R10, tripod stand, phone mount, carrying case, Micro USB cable
Garmin Golf Membership	$9.99/month or $99.99/year (optional)
Benefits of Membership	Access to Home Tee Hero golf simulation, weekly tournaments, ability to store video clips in cloud
E6 CONNECT Subscription	Basic 1-year: $300, Expanded 1-year: $600, Permanent license: $2,500 (optional)
PinSeeker compatibility	Yes
PinSeeker Tournaments	Free Tournaments, Cash Tournaments
Golf Club 2019	$950 (optional)

5. BenQ TH671ST – $749

The BenQ TH671ST is a popular choice among golf simulator enthusiasts, and for good reason. Despite being released in 2017, it still stands the test of time and remains a viable option in 2023. One of its standout features is its 0.69:1 – 0.83:1 throw ratio, which gives it the flexibility to work with varying distances between the projector and screen.

This projector boasts an ANSI brightness of 3,000 lumens, making it ideal for use in a room with low ambient light. This is especially important for a golf simulator, as you want the screen to be as bright and clear as possible without any interference from external sources of light.

However, the BenQ TH671ST does have a few limitations. It only has vertical keystone adjustment, meaning that it’s an entry-level, budget golf simulator projector. This may not be an issue for some, but it’s worth noting for those who are looking for a more advanced or flexible setup.

In conclusion, the BenQ TH671ST is a solid choice for those looking to create a custom golf simulator setup. With its short throw ratio, high ANSI brightness, and affordability, it provides a great balance of performance and value. While it may not have all of the advanced features of more premium models, it still offers a fantastic viewing experience that is sure to enhance any golf simulator setup.

4. Optoma GT1080HDR – $799

The Optoma GT1080HDR is our “best value” golf simulator projector. It has a short throw ratio of 0.5:1, meaning it can project a 16 foot wide image from just 8 feet away. This makes it the perfect choice for a golf simulator setup, as it saves you space while still delivering high-quality images. With the ability to project large images, you can immerse yourself in the game and improve your golfing skills.

The projector also supports HDR, which provides you with a more vivid and realistic image. The HDR technology enhances the contrast and color accuracy, which is especially important in a golf simulator as you want to accurately see the course and terrain.

The Optoma GT1080HDR is also user-friendly, with easy installation and intuitive on-screen menus. It comes with two HDMI ports, a USB port, and a 12V trigger, which makes it compatible with various devices and systems.

Another feature worth mentioning is the lamp life of the projector, which is rated for 15,000 hours. This means you won’t have to replace the lamp for many years, even if you use the projector frequently.

In conclusion, the Optoma GT1080HDR is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable, short-throw projector for their home golf simulator. Its high brightness, short throw ratio, and support for HDR make it a top pick for golf enthusiasts.

3. BenQ TK700STi – $1499

Golf enthusiasts are always looking for ways to improve their game and bring the golf course experience to their homes. One of the best ways to do this is by setting up a custom golf simulator, and a critical component of any good golf simulator is the projector. In this post, we will be reviewing the BenQ TK700STi, a 4K golf simulator projector that makes a great entry in our list of the best projectors for golf simulators in 2023.

The BenQ TK700STi is one of the few 4K golf simulator projectors on the market, and it is a step up in price compared to the other options on our list. However, this jump in price is expected as 4K resolution projectors are still a premium product. The projector has a short throw ratio, with a range of 0.90:1 to 1.08:1. This means that it can be used in a smaller space and still provide a high-quality image.

The projector has an impressive ANSI brightness rating of 3,000 lumens, which makes it ideal for use in rooms with low ambient light. It also has the ability to display 3D, 4K UHD, 1.2x manual zoom, and horizontal and vertical keystone adjustments, making it a great mid-tier home golf simulator projector.

One of the most important considerations when choosing a projector for a golf simulator is the short throw ratio. The BenQ TK700STi falls at the long end of the range, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It all depends on the space you have available for your home golf simulator. It’s always best to use a tool like projector central to determine the exact dimensions for a golf sim screen size and which projector will work best for your needs.

In conclusion, the BenQ TK700STi is a great option for golf enthusiasts looking for a 4K golf simulator projector. Its impressive specs and mid-tier price point make it a serious contender for anyone looking to bring the golf course experience to their homes.

2. BenQ LK936ST – $4,899

The BenQ LK936ST is a top of the line golf simulator projector, offering a stunning 4K UHD resolution and impressive brightness with a 5,100 ANSI lumens rating. It is a true short throw projector, with a 0.8:1 ratio and 1.1x zoom capability, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking to create a large, immersive golf simulator experience.

This all-in-one home theater and golf simulator projector is designed with convenience in mind, featuring a lamp life of 20,000 hours, so you won’t have to worry about replacing the bulb for years to come. It also offers horizontal and vertical keystone adjustment, providing even greater flexibility for your home golf simulator setup.

The only reason the BenQ LK936ST ranks second on our list is its high price point. However, if you are looking for the best possible performance for your golf simulator, and are willing to invest in the best technology, this projector is definitely worth considering.

In conclusion, the BenQ LK936ST is a premium golf simulator projector that offers unbeatable performance and a wide range of features to enhance your home golf simulator experience. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or just looking for a top-notch home theater setup, this projector is definitely worth considering.

1. Optoma UHD35STx – $1749

The Optoma UHD35STx is the perfect choice for anyone looking for the best golf simulator projector for 2023. With its 4K resolution, 3,600 ANSI lumens, and 0.50:1 short throw ratio, this projector delivers unbeatable performance and value. Whether you’re setting up a custom golf simulator at home or looking for a versatile gaming projector, the Optoma UHD35STx is the ideal choice.

With its 3D capability, 1080p at 240Hz, and ultra low latency, this projector is not only perfect for golf simulation, but also offers an excellent gaming experience. Whether you’re playing XBOX, PS5, or other FPS games, this projector has what it takes to deliver a smooth, responsive experience that rivals even the best gaming monitors.

So why is the Optoma UHD35STx our top choice for 2023? Simply put, this projector offers the best performance to value ratio of any projector on the market. With its impressive specs, low latency, and affordability, the Optoma UHD35STx is the perfect choice for anyone looking to set up a custom golf simulator or gaming setup at home.

If you’re looking for the best golf simulator projector for 2023, the Optoma UHD35STx is definitely worth considering. Whether you’re a serious golfer or a competitive gamer, this projector offers the performance and value you need to take your experience to the next level.

What Features are Most Important?

Go to our Projectors section to read more information about projector features that are important for your golf simulator.