Categories
Budget Launch Monitors

Garmin R10 Launch Monitor Review

Garmin R10 Review
Garmin R10
garmin r10

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)

Categories
Launch Monitors Top 5

Top 5 Launch Monitors 2023

What made the cut for our Top 5 Launch Monitors in 2023?

In this article we will cover our top 5 launch monitors available to purchase right now in 2023.

We take into account value, versatility, software compatibility and precision.

Finally we assign a GSN Score to rank the products.

5. Bushnell Launch Pro

GSN Score Bushnell Launch Pro

     Coming in at number 5, the Launch Pro by Bushnell is a compact, portable launch monitor that provides professional-grade performance data for golfers of all skill levels. It uses 3 high-speed cameras and advanced algorithms to accurately measure ball and club data, including ball speed, spin rate, launch angle, and more. The Launch Pro is lightweight and easy to transport, making it an ideal choice for golfers who want to practice and play on the go.

     Even though the base price is $3,499, expect to pay yearly software subscription fees to get access to more courses and to unlock extra features such as club head data which is frustrating, since the unit is already capable.

Price: The Launch Pro base cost is $3,499 (No Software).

Features:

  • Compact and portable design
  • Accurate ball and club data
  • High-speed cameras and advanced algorithms
  • Lightweight and easy to transport
bushnell launch pro
launch pro golf simulator

4. Foresight Sports GCHawk

GSN Score GC Hawk

     The GCHawk is a ceiling-mounted launch monitor that provides precise ball and club performance data through a combination of infrared object tracking and a high-speed quadrascopic camera system. It is designed to fit seamlessly into residential or commercial environments and can be easily integrated with golf simulator enclosures or home theaters. The GCHawk provides multi-sport functionality, with dynamic tracking and special performance algorithms, and is ideal for golfers who want to take their game to the next level.

Price: The GCHawk base cost is $16,000 (No Software).

Features:

  • Ceiling-mounted design
  • Precise ball and club performance data
  • Infrared object tracking and quadrascopic camera system
  • Multi-sport functionality
  • No adjustments for Left or Right handed play
GCHawk
GCHawk Launch Monitor

3. Trackman 4

GSN Score Trackman 4

     The Trackman 4 is a high-tech golf launch monitor that uses Optically Enhanced Radar Tracking (OERT) technology to measure various aspects of a golfer’s swing and ball flight. It features dual radar systems, synchronized in time and space, a built-in camera with high dynamic range and high-speed optics, and a quad-core Intel Baytrail processor.

     The Trackman 4 provides data on club speed, attack angle, dynamic loft, club path, face angle, spin loft, swing plane, swing direction, and ball speed, smash factor, launch angle, spin rate, launch direction, spin axis, and more. It also has WiFi, micro-USB, and Ethernet interfaces and a lithium-ion battery providing 4+ hours of playtime. With its patented target alignment and on-screen target, the Trackman 4 offers advanced performance analysis and virtual golf simulator capabilities.

     Overall, this is an amazing unit and the only real negative is you are paying for the name recognition and technology that may be the current industry standard in regards to accuracy, but that level of precision is only really useful for professional level golfers.  You can get launch monitors for a fraction of the price, with precision +/- 1 yard carry difference of Trackman, and still be able to improve your skills and play 18-hole simulated golf.     

Price: The Trackman 4 costs around $18,000.

Features:

  • Cutting-edge technology
  • The industry standard in Accuracy and Precision
  • Comprehensive performance data
  • Ideal for high level golfers who want to improve their game
trackman 4 launch monitor

2. Uneekor EYE XO

GSN Score Uneekor EYE XO

     The Uneekor Eye XO is an overhead mounted launch monitor that provides professional-grade performance data for golfers of all skill levels. It uses dual high-speed cameras and advanced algorithms to accurately measure ball and club data, including ball speed, spin rate, launch angle, and more. The Eye XO is designed to fit seamlessly into residential or commercial environments and can easily be integrated with golf simulator enclosures or home theaters.  You don’t have to pay any extra fee’s to get club data, which is a common theme in the current marketplace.

     The Eye XO tied the next launch monitor on the list for our GSN score, this is an amazing unit for the price.  You can use nearly every simulation software out there, with no confusing software packages and paying to unlock built in features.  Uneekor has top notch customer support and is making a name for itself with innovative new technologies coming out soon.

Price: The Uneekor Eye XO costs $10,000. (Includes View Software)

Features:

  • Overhead mounted design
  • Very accurate ball and club data
  • Best Launch Monitor in regards to software options and compatibility 
  • No adjustments for Left or Right handed play
  • Best value in regards to the price / performance
uneekor eye xo

1. Foresight Sports GC Quad

GSN Score GC Quad

     The Foresight Sports GCQuad is a high-performance launch monitor that uses infrared object tracking and a quadrascopic camera system to accurately measure ball and club data. It provides professional-grade performance data for golfers of all levels and is ideal for those who want to take their game to the next level. The GC Quad is easy to use and can be integrated into residential or commercial environments.

     The GC Quad is a popular unit on the range at pro events.  Bryson DeChambeau can be seen using the unit while working on his ball speed training.  With 4 cameras, its precision is only rivaled by the Trackman 4 which is why you see so many pros trusting its data.  Its on the high end of the price range, and in a commercial environment or playing with friends who are left handed, the unit will need to be moved to the other side of the hitting surface.  However the portability, small size and its ease of calibration we gave it a 5/5 for versatility.  

   It provides more value than the Trackman 4 due to its value (price / performance), as its cheaper and it provides the same level of professional grade accuracy.  It was a close decision over the Uneekor Eye XO, however the GCQuad took the edge in our Top 5 Launch Monitors of 2023 as number 1.  The only real knock on the unit is the current software options and pricing.  Although it should be compatible with GSPRO in the near future.

Price: The GC Quad base cost is $14,000 (No software).

Features:

  • Infrared object tracking and quadrascopic camera system
  • Accurate ball and club data
  • Professional-grade performance data
  • Very portable and easy to set up
GCQuad Launch Monitor
Categories
Launch Monitors

Uneekor EYE Mini

Uneekor Eye Mini: The Future of Golf Launch Monitors

     Golf enthusiasts and professionals alike are eagerly anticipating the launch of the Uneekor Eye Mini, set to hit the market in April 2023. This new launch monitor is poised to shake up the world of golf, offering features and technology that make it stand out from its competitors.

     In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes the Uneekor Eye Mini such a highly anticipated device, and compare it to some of the other top launch monitors on the market. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, you won’t want to miss out on the latest and greatest in golf technology.

uneekor eye mini

Features of the Uneekor Eye Mini

The Eye Mini is packed with features that are sure to impress even the most discerning golfer. Here are just a few of the highlights:

  • Dual High-Speed Cameras: The Eye Mini’s dual high-speed cameras are similar to the EYE XO cameras, rated at ≥3000 fps. These infrared cameras require no lighting, making them perfect for indoor and outdoor use.
  • Battery Life: With a battery life of approximately 7 hours, you’ll be able to play all day without having to worry about your launch monitor running out of juice.
  • Hitting Area: The Eye Mini has a hitting area of approximately 11″ x 8″, which is ample space for even the longest swings.
  • Connectivity: The Eye Mini offers Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity, so you’ll be able to use it wherever you are, regardless of your setup.
  • Ball and Club Data*: The Eye Mini provides an extensive range of ball and club data, including ball speed, launch angle, side spin, back spin, club speed, and much more. (Information on club data is not yet confirmed)
eye mini lcd screen

Comparing the Uneekor Eye Mini to its Competitors

     The Eye Mini is a high-quality launch monitor that compares favorably to some of the best devices on the market. Here’s a comparison with two of its main competitors:

Skytrak: The Skytrak launch monitor has (2) lower-speed cameras and does not capture club data.

Bushnell Launch Pro: The Bushnell Launch Pro is a 3-camera system with a high-speed, high-resolution infrared camera. Club data is available with a subscription.

Foresight GC3: The Foresight GC3 is another 3-camera system with a high-speed, high-resolution infrared camera. Club data is included.

     In comparison, the Eye Mini is a 2-camera device that offers an extensive range of ball and club data, all without a subscription fee (not yet confirmed). Additionally, the Eye Mini has a longer battery life and a larger hitting area, making it a great option for golfers of all levels.

uneekor eye mini side

Uneekor's Game Day Simulator Software

     In addition to the Eye Mini launch monitor, Uneekor is also launching its new Game Day simulator software. This software provides unparalleled 4K graphics and display, making it an immersive and exciting way to practice your golf skills.

     At this time, the list of courses available and the release date on the Game Day software is unconfirmed. However, Uneekor is working hard to build its portfolio and provide golfers with a wide range of courses to choose from.

Conclusion

     In conclusion, the Uneekor Eye Mini is a highly anticipated launch monitor that is set to take the golfing world by storm. With its compact and portable design, dual high-speed cameras, and rich array of ball and club data, the Eye Mini offers golfers a level of accuracy and precision that is unmatched by any other launch monitor on the market.

     With a price point of $4,500, the Eye Mini is competitively priced against its rivals, and is an excellent value for golfers who want the best possible experience on the course. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, the Eye Mini is a must-have tool that will help you improve your game and take your skills to the next level.

     So, if you’re in the market for a launch monitor, be sure to keep an eye out for the Eye Mini, and get your hands on one as soon as it becomes available in April 2023!

uneekor eye mini
Categories
Launch Monitors

TruGolf APOGEE

Introduction to APOGEE

TruGolf APOGEE
TruGolf APOGEE

     Golf enthusiasts, get ready for the newest launch monitor from TruGolf, soon available for purchase. The TruGolf APOGEE is a state-of-the-art device that utilizes a new array of vision algorithms called INSTANT IMPACT, allowing for accurate and efficient measurements without the need for marked balls or clubs.

The APOGEE package comes with the following items:

  • APOGEE Launch Monitor
  • Calibration Template
  • 6’ Power Cable
  • 50’ CAT6 Cable
  • USB to CAT6 Network Adapter
  • E6 CONNECT Product Key
  • Instruction Bundle
  • Laser Level
  • Mounting Hardware & Screws
  • Ceiling Mount

Unique Features of the APOGEE

laser impact area apogee
Laser Ball Strike Area

“Hey APOGEE” Voice Command

One of the most innovative features of the APOGEE is the “Hey APOGEE!” voice command. This allows users to navigate gameplay and adjust settings inside the E6 CONNECT software with ease. With this feature, you can spend less time on the computer and more time focusing on perfecting your practice swings.

For example, you can ask APOGEE to help you read a putt, show you the trouble around that sharp dog-leg, change the weather to something a bit more dramatic for the tie-breaker, or tee up a breakfast ball… again.

Point of Impact (POI)

The Point of Impact (POI) interface is one of the most innovative features of the APOGEE launch monitor. This feature provides a slow-motion, scrubbable, video playback of your club’s action through the ball. This allows golfers to see exactly where and how their club is making contact with the ball, providing valuable insights into their swing and helping them make adjustments for improved performance.

Laser Ball Strike Area

APOGEE is sold with the APOGEE Laser Indicator to show players where to place the ball. The APOGEE Laser Indicator disappears as soon as the ball is at rest in a valid hitting location. This visual confirmation minimizes frustrating do-overs and uncaptured shots.

Data Tracking and Measurement

The APOGEE uses a proprietary ultra-high-speed stereoscopic camera system and the all-new INSTANT IMPACT image analysis algorithm to gather shot data. The INSTANT IMPACT program measures information from both the club and ball, and simulates on-screen shots with no lag or delay.

With the APOGEE, you can measure the following data points for each shot:

  • Ball Speed
  • Back Spin
  • Side Spin
  • Vertical Launch Angle
  • Horizontal Launch Direction
  • Club Head Speed
  • Club Face Angle
  • Club Path

E6 Connect Software

The APOGEE package also includes an E6 CONNECT 27-Course License + 1-Year Expanded Subscription. The E6 Course Library is constantly expanding and offers users the ability to discover and immerse themselves in new golf destinations. Some of the features of the E6 software include:

  • 90+ World-Class Courses
  • 4 Unique Driving Ranges
  • 13 Short Game Ranges
  • 16 Mini Games
  • 8 Modes of Play
  • Unlimited Player Profiles & Online Stat Tracking

Specifications

apogee specifications
  • Dimensions: 38″ (W) X 5 1/2″ (H) X 8′ (D)
  • Weight: 22 lbs
  • Software: E6
  • Lighting Requirements: Areas exposed to direct sunlight will need to have curtains or a similar solution installed to control lighting.
  • Room Requirements: APOGEE requires 9’-10’ of height from your Launch Monitor to your hitting surface.
  • Distance to Screen: APOGEE does not require a specific distance from the fixture to the screen. All measurements are taken at the Point of Impact.
  • It requires 9’-10’ of height from the launch monitor to the hitting surface.

Pricing and Availability

     The TruGolf APOGEE Launch Monitor is now available for purchase at a cost of $11,500. And be on the look out soon, it releases early 2023!  It comes with a calibration template, a 6’ power cable, a 50’ CAT6 cable, a USB to CAT6 network adapter, an E6 CONNECT product key, an instruction bundle, a laser level, mounting hardware and screws, and a ceiling mount. This package offers everything you need to get started with the APOGEE and take your golf game to the next level.

laser ball placement trugolf apogee

Conclusion

     The TruGolf APOGEE Launch Monitor is a game-changer for golfers who want to take their game to the next level. With its advanced features and technology, it provides an immersive and realistic golf experience. The POI interface offers a slow-motion, scrubbable, video playback of your club’s action through the ball, and the E6 CONNECT software provides access to 90+ world-class courses, 4 unique driving ranges, 13 short game ranges, 16 mini games, 8 modes of play, and unlimited player profiles and online stat tracking. The “Hey APOGEE” voice command feature allows for easy navigation and adjustments to gameplay settings. The APOGEE’s data tracking capabilities and shot measurement features, including ball speed, back spin, side spin, vertical launch angle, horizontal launch direction, club head speed, club face angle, and club path, provide golfers with detailed information to improve their swing and overall game. The APOGEE is soon available for purchase at a cost of $11,500, making it an investment that will pay off in the long run for any golfer looking to improve their game.

Apogee laser view
Categories
Launch Monitors

Flightscope Mevo+

What is the Flightscope Mevo+ ?

flightscope face impact location

     FlightScope, a leading manufacturer of golf launch monitors, has recently announced the release of their latest product, the Mevo+ 2023 Edition. The Mevo+ is a radar-based launch monitor that offers golfers a wide range of data points, including ball flight data and club data. The new edition of the Mevo+ comes with a host of new features that make it even more accurate and user-friendly than its predecessor.

 

New Features in 2023 for Flightscope Mevo+

flightscope mevo+ pro package
New Face Impact Location!

     One of the most notable new features of the Mevo+ 2023 Edition is the addition of Face Impact Location. This feature precisely captures the location of contact on the club face with every strike, giving teachers, fitters, and golfers important impact information in addition to the data points captured with the Mevo+ Pro Package.

     The Mevo+ 2023 Edition also comes with an improved kickstand that extends to the required 12 degrees tilt, the optimal positioning for accuracy and consistency. The battery life has also been improved, offering up to three hours of use between charges. Additionally, FlightScope has included their revamped PC software with purchase, as well as ownership of the FlightScope E6 Connect Bundle with 10 simulated golf courses for iOS and PC users.

Summary of New Features in 2023:

  1. Face Impact Location add-on to the Pro Package for an additional $500
  2. Kickstand that extends to 12 degrees of tilt
  3. Improved Battery Life up to 3 hours
  4. Revamped PC software

 

How much does it cost?

flightscope mevo+ face impact location

     FlightScope’s CEO Henri Johnson said, “We are excited to be able to add Face Impact Location as an add-on to the FlightScope’s Mevo+ Pro Package, which truly provides golfers an incredible amount of information and feedback at a price point not seen before in the golf industry.”

     The Mevo+ 2023 Edition retails for $2,199, and the Pro Package can be added for $1,000. Furthermore, Face Impact Technology can be added to units with the Pro Package for $500, making the total cost of the FlightScope Mevo+ Pro Package with Face Impact Technology $3,699.

     For golfers looking for a high-quality launch monitor at an affordable price, the FlightScope Mevo+ 2023 Edition with Pro Package and Face Impact Technology is an excellent option. It offers a wide range of data points and advanced features that are typically found on more expensive launch monitors. Visit flightscopemevo.com for special 2023 PGA Show Week pricing and more information on this innovative new product.

Categories
Launch Monitors Software

Golfzon Wave

Golfzon Wave
New Launch Monitor From Golfzon - Debuting at the PGA Merchandise Show 2023

Golfzon Wave - Details

The new Golfzon Wave launch monitor from Golfzon will have an innovative radar and infrared dual-sensor technology capturing: club speed, ball speed, spin rate, and more.

It is available for sale in the Spring of 2023, and will be debuted at the 2023 PGA Merchandise Show.

The Wave is a portable unit. It includes the all new Wave skills app which can analyze swing data.  It will have 100+ of the world famous courses.  The launch monitor captures 34 points of data to help refine your skills and improve your game.  Use it for game improvement or on-course 18 hole play. 

Golfzon Wave Launch Monitor

The golf simulator launch monitor is being labeled an “all-in-one” package as it can be used indoors or outdoors, has its own proprietary software than can track sessions with an android or ios using the Vision Wave app.

Golfzon Wave - New Putting Mat

One of the most unique features is the new putting mat, which uses infrared technology to provide precise feedback.

WAVE also doubles as a simulator, providing a fun and entertaining experience for players of all levels with access to over 100 stunningly realistic virtual renderings of world-class courses like St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, Kiawah Island and many more.

We are excited to see how the new putting mat works, it could be a game changer as an added component to golf simulator launch monitors to improve putting accuracy, especially with lower priced radar type launch monitors.  Stay tuned for more information as it comes out.

golfzon wave putting mat

More Images of the Golfzon Wave

golfzone launch monitor
golfzon outdoor wave launch monitor

When is the Golfon Wave Available for sale?

The Golfzon WAVE is scheduled to be for sale in the Spring of 2023.  You can look forward to seeing more information come out after the 2023 PGA Merchandise show.

Subscribe below for alerts on any news or updates for the Golfzon WAVE and Golf Simulator News!

Categories
Launch Monitors Software

The Rise of Golf Simulators: What Does The Future Hold?

Golf fans everywhere have longed to experience the thrill and challenge of playing a round on a high-end golf simulator. However, until recently, that prospect was still largely out of reach; the cost and impracticality of setting up a full-scale simulator was simply too much to overcome. But the future of golf simulators is looking brighter than ever!

The emergence of high-quality and affordable golf simulators have revolutionized the way people can enjoy and improve their golf game. These accessible simulators have been designed to bring the feeling of a real course right into people’s homes. Now, there is no need to worry about the constraints of time, cost, or weather – golfers can play any day, anytime, and improve in the process.

But, perhaps more than just recreating a course experience, the real potential of golf simulators lies in the ability to provide gamers with an exact simulation of any given golf course. With trackable clubs and simulation systems such as ‘Golfzon’, players have access to incredibly accurate data and feedback about each shot and all 18 holes with impressive levels of accuracy. This capability, combined with the ability to adjust and adjust each feature of the golf course to suit the golfer’s style, makes the golf simulator an invaluable tool for beginners and experts alike.

Furthermore, new technologies are currently making the simulator experience even more immersive. Allowing gamers to customize their avatar and ‘compete’ against audio-stimulated competitors as they make their way around the virtual course can be extremely motivating and uplifting.

Finally, the future of golf simulators looks even more exciting with developments being made into virtual reality and augmented reality technology. If we were to fast forward to a few years from now, it wouldn’t be at all farfetched to imagine a golf simulator that allows you to feel the wind, smell the grass, and hear the sound of the birds as you make your way around the virtual course. When that day comes, it would be quite the experience!

All in all, never before has it been so accessible for golfers to experience the same thrills and challenges as a real golf course. With the rapid developments being made into virtual and augmented reality technology, it looks like the future of golf simulators is even more exciting