Avid golfers around the world can now enjoy their favorite sport in the comfort of their homes. Contrary to popular belief, golf simulators can be purchased at affordable prices, with amazing customizable features that any golf player will enjoy.
Even with a tight budget, anyone can access world-class golf simulators that fit their financial restrictions and available space. What you need to know before getting a golf simulator is that it comes with a bit of commitment.
These devices take up little space, and some models can take up more than 30 minutes to set up or takedown. This can be a little stressful for people looking for flexible set-ups that they can move easily.
To make the best purchase, you have to consider a few important set-up-related aspects first. This article brings you five essential points worth considering before buying a golf simulator.
How Much Space Do You Have?
Assessing the space you will be using to set up your golf simulator is the first thing you need to do before even looking for one.
For example, most golfers find it difficult to fit their simulator packages in their homes due to the ceiling height.
The recommended space needs to be about 9 feet high, 12 feet long, and 12 feet wide, however, the measurements differ based on the package you choose.
Before looking into the type of package to get, we recommend checking your ceiling height to decide accordingly.
If you don’t have enough space, you can always opt for a garage simulator; this option gives you enough space and allows you to separate between your living and your golfing area.
Some dedicated golfers refuse to give up under their residential limitations and invest in building outside sheds for their simulators.
However, you can still find a matching package to fit your space and go easy on your wallet. It’s a matter of whether you are ready to give up a small space of your living or working area or not.
How Much You Are Willing to Pay
Most people think an average golf simulator would cost more than $10000.
While this is not entirely incorrect, most packages that cost more than $2000 are designed for commercial or professional use.
Golfers can access a full setup for a price lower than $1000. Another money-saving option is only getting the golf net package without including the projector or the projector screen.
The projector and simulator screen separately cost about an extra thousand dollars, so users who find alternatives or replace them earn the cheapest options.
Just like checking your available space, doing a little homework, and reviewing the models, you are interested in will help you make the best decision and find the perfect package for your budget allowance.
How Flexible You Are with Your Simulator Space
We brushed upon how much of a commitment setting up a golf simulator at home is, but let’s discuss that in more detail.
Most golf simulators and golf course mats are installed as permanent fixtures in your living room, game room, or garage, which can pose problems down the line should you decide to utilize the space differently.
Fortunately, there are plenty of flexible and portable designs that allow you to change their location without a hassle.
Keep this in mind when shopping around and look for more info about portable golf simulators that are easy to set up and takedown.
If you prefer flexible options, a projector or a golf simulator mat might not be very helpful since they can’t be taken apart and set up elsewhere.
Therefore, you will have to commit to giving up one of your rooms for the simulator.
On the other hand, you may be interested in packages that can be disassembled easily after every game to let you return your room back to normal when you’re done.
Opt for Golf Nets
An average golf simulator package consists mainly of a simulator, a launch monitor, a simulator screen, a golf mat, a projector, and, of course, a computer or iPad to activate the simulation software.
Yet, many users would rather switch their projectors and golf simulator screens with golf nets.
This works through displaying the simulation on an alternative screen or TV and hitting it into a net rather than into another screen.
Since users can customize their packages and control the pieces they purchase, this is considered one of the most cost-efficient solutions.
The screens and projectors can add thousands to your full package price, so finding replacements for them or going for a golf net is the way to go if you are running on a low budget.
Golf nets are also more portable and easier to take down as opposed to projector screens which require extra work and time before you can put them away.
Setup Time
A golf simulator’s setup time can be a real pain for some golf lovers wanting a portable simulator that takes no time to install and put away.
Setting up a golf simulator can take up from 5 minutes to a full hour duration. It depends on the package you choose.
As explained above, golf nets are easier and faster to set up and put away, while projectors and projector screens are made up of extra components that make them more complex to install.
The first time you set up a golf net, it can take you up to 15 minutes, but after that, it shouldn’t take you more than 5 minutes to reinstall it.
On the other hand, projector screens and projectors take between 30 minutes and an hour to finish setting up.
Before buying a golf simulator, consider how much time you’re ready to dedicate to playing golf.
How much effort are you ready to put into reassembling your portable simulator before every game? Are you ready to pay an extra couple of thousands for a high-end simulation screen?
How much free space do you have for a simulated golf course? Are you willing to permanently dedicate that space to your simulator?
Think about all the sacrifices you might have to make to enjoy your simulated golf course at home before opting for a pricey package that won’t suit your needs.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Assess the space you will be using to set up your golf simulator. Make sure to measure the area where you plan to install the simulator to ensure it fits comfortably.
Consider how much you are willing to invest in a golf simulator. While some may think it’s expensive, there are different options available at various price points to suit different budgets.
Are you willing to commit to a dedicated space for your golf simulator, or do you need a more flexible setup? Consider how much space you can allocate for the simulator and whether it can be a permanent fixture or needs to be easily movable.
Should you opt for golf nets as part of your simulator setup? Most average golf simulator packages include a simulation screen, projector, and hitting mat, but adding golf nets can enhance the experience and provide additional safety measures for indoor use.
What is the setup time for a golf simulator? Some setups can be more time-consuming than others, so it’s important to consider how much time and effort you are willing to dedicate to assembling and disassembling the simulator when not in use.
