Launch monitors used to be a $20,000 toy for tour pros and coaches. In 2025, there are solid options under $300–$1,000 that give normal golfers useful data on carry distance, ball speed, and dispersion.
But do you really need one?
What a launch monitor actually gives you
- Carry and total distance for each club
- Ball speed, club speed, launch angle, and spin (depending on model)
- Shot-shape and dispersion patterns over a session
- In some models, basic simulation or app-based practice games
If you’re guessing at your yardages, hitting into the wind with no idea what your “stock” 7-iron does, a launch monitor can be a game-changer.
Price tiers that make sense for casual golfers
- Under ~$300 – “Know your numbers” tier
- Compact radar units and phone-based systems that focus on carry distance and ball speed.
- Great if you just want to map your bag twice a year and check progress.
- $300–$1,000 – “Practice with purpose” tier
- Devices like the Rapsodo MLM series, Swing Caddie SC4, or similar offer more ball-flight data, range-session history, and better apps.
- Ideal for players practicing weekly who want to track trends over time.
- $1,000–$3,000+ – “Home range / sim” tier
- Systems like SkyTrak+ and mid-range radar units bring in simulation golf, more precise spin data, and better indoor performance.
- Worth it only if you’ll build a nets-and-mat setup at home and use it year-round.
Who gets the most value?
- Beginners:
- Great for building confidence: seeing a real carry number for your 7-iron and driver helps set smart on-course targets.
- Improvers (breaking 90/80):
- Perfect for dialing in wedge distances, gapping your set, and running structured practice sessions.
- Once-a-month golfers:
- You may be better off spending that money on lessons, range time, or a club fitting first.
