The 8 Best Portable Launch Monitors – Reviews & Buyer Guide

Disclaimer: This website may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through some links at no additional cost. However, our reviews and comparisons are conducted objectively and without bias. Our primary goal is to provide accurate information to help you make informed decisions at the best price. Please read our disclosure statement for more information. Thank you for your support.

Bottom Line

Based on our tests, research, and experience, our top pick for the best portable launch monitor is the SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor. It offers improved accuracy, indoor and outdoor use with radar and camera systems, and compatibility with top golf simulation software programs.

Golfers of all skill levels are always looking for ways to improve their game, and technology has made it easier than ever to do so. Portable launch monitors are one of the latest innovations that can help golfers get real-time feedback on their swing and ball flight, allowing them to make adjustments and improve their game.

But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right portable launch monitor for your needs.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best portable launch monitors available today. From budget-friendly options to high-end models with advanced features, there’s something for every golfer here. So whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, read on to find the perfect launch monitor for your needs.

Comparison of the Top 3 Reviewed Products
ProductFeaturesOur RatingPurchasing Options
skytrak challenge
SkyTrak+ (Plus) Launch Monitor
  • Incredibly accurate tracking and data analysis
  • Indoor and outdoor use with radar and camera systems
  • Compatibility with top golf simulation software programs
  • Easy to set up and use with a sleek design and sturdy build
  • High-speed data transfer with 5GHZ WIFI connectivity
  • Software plans are the same as those for the original SkyTrak (It depends on how you see it- For us, it's a good thing; you don't fix something if it's not broken).
9.8
Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor
Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor / Bushnell Launch Pro
  • Highly accurate measurements thanks to the photometric system
  • Versatile performance for indoor and outdoor use
  • Instant data display for easy analysis and improvement
  • Portable design for use anywhere, anytime
  • The Launch Pro is a more budget-friendly alternative to the GC3 with the same performance- minus the software.
9.5
garmin approach r10.
Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor
  • Affordable option
  • Detailed club path measurements
  • Essential metrics provided
  • 42,000+ virtual courses accessible with a subscription to Garmin's Golf App
  • Support for all major simulation software
  • Very compact and portable
  • Amazing battery life of up to 10 hours of use
9.3

How Did We Test These Launch Monitors

We do not take this task lightly. We conduct an extensive testing process on different models regularly and in various situations to gauge performance over time.

Several different criteria inform our decision-making regarding the selection of the top launch monitors, including cost, accuracy, portability, data points, and weight. We test these monitors comprehensively, going over all of their features.

Our testing process is designed to provide you with honest feedback about the best launch monitors available because we care about our fellow golfers. Even though they sometimes give us the ability to use their units for testing purposes (Sometimes the most expensive units are out of our budget), No manufacturer can buy a good review; you can trust that our information is accurate and insightful.

Best Portable Launch Monitors: Detailed Reviews

Portable launch monitors are designed to be compact and highly accurate, making them an excellent option for those who want to improve their golf game without having to spend a fortune.

In the following sections, we’ll provide a detailed review of some of the best portable launch monitors available, highlighting their unique features, pros, and cons. Let’s dive in!

The following are our top selections based on our own testing, research, and experience:

  1. SkyTrak+ (Plus) Launch Monitor
  2. Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor / Bushnell Launch Pro
  3. Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor
  4. Rapsodo MLM 2 Pro Launch Monitor
  5. FlightScope X3 Launch Monitor
  6. Uneekor EYE MINI Launch Monitor
  7. FlightScope Mevo Plus Launch Monitor- 2023 Edition
  8. Ernest Sports ES Tour Plus Launch Monitor

#1 - SkyTrak+ (Plus) Launch Monitor

skytrak challenge

The SkyTrak+ is the successor to the original SkyTrak, which was already a popular launch monitor in the industry.

The new launch monitor has improved accuracy, is suitable for indoor and outdoor use with both radar and camera systems, and offers a range of features that will help golfers of all skill levels improve their game. The SkyTrak+ is a bit pricier at $2995, but it’s a worthwhile investment for serious golfers who want a launch monitor that’s both accurate and versatile.

For an in-depth look at the SkyTrak+, check out our SkyTrak Plus (ST+) Launch Monitor Review.

The SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor is easy to set up and use. It accurately tracks shots and provides detailed data on carry distance, total distance, clubhead speed, ball speed, spin rates, launch angles, and more.

The device is compatible with PCs and iOS and Android devices, and it supports top golf simulation software programs such as TGC 2019, E6 Connect, WGT, and GSPro software.

The unit’s design is sleek with a white body and lime green accents, and it felt solid in our hands during our tests (even more solid and sturdy than the original unit). The SkyTrak+ is also incredibly capable when it comes to connecting and outputting data, with a port that’s capable of fast charging the device and 5GHZ WIFI connectivity, which provides stable connections and high data transfer rates.

Pros

  • Incredibly accurate tracking and data analysis
  • Indoor and outdoor use with radar and camera systems
  • Compatibility with top golf simulation software programs
  • Easy to set up and use with a sleek design and sturdy build
  • High-speed data transfer with 5GHZ WIFI connectivity
  • Software plans are the same as those for the original SkyTrak (It depends on how you see it- For us, it’s a good thing; you don’t fix something if it’s not broken).

Cons

  • Additional subscription options for features and support can add up quickly

SkyTrak+ is capable of tracking both the golf ball and club, providing actual data without the need to use club face stickers.

The combination of Doppler radar and high-speed photometric cameras makes it possible for golfers to get a precise read on their shots both indoors and outdoors. With every swing, the device provides immediate feedback on exactly what’s going on in your game, allowing you to track your progress and improve your performance over time.

Overall, the SkyTrak+ is a game-changing launch monitor that’s worth every penny for golfers who are serious about improving their game.

Skytrak Launch Monitor
Skytrak Launch Monitor

Despite the panoply of hardware improvements brought by the new Skytrak +, the original Skytrak launch monitor is still immensely popular thanks to the great value it provides. If you are on a tighter budget, you can still confidently invest in the original Skytrak; we promise that you will not regret it. Or, if you wish, you can also check our detailed review of the original Skytrak launch monitor before making up your mind!

#2 - Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor / Bushnell Launch Pro

Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor

The Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor offers accuracy, versatility, and top-notch measurement technology. It is trusted by many professional instructors and club fitters for the accuracy of data it provides.

The GC3 uses a photometric system with three super high-speed cameras to ensure accurate and reliable measurements, even for shots that are hit off-center or miss-hit. You’ll get instant data display on your mobile device or computer, so you can analyze your shots and make adjustments to your golf swing. You can even get the data directly on the built-in touch screen when using the unit outdoors, which is very convenient.

The GC3 performs flawlessly both indoors and outdoors, and The built-in Lithium-ION battery can last up to 5-7 hours. Whether you want to use it at the driving range or in a golf simulator, the GC3 has you covered. And, its compact and highly portable design makes it easy to take with you wherever you go.

Why are the two units physically identical, but the GC3 costs almost twice the price of the Launch Pro?

Now with the Bushnell Launch Pro launch monitor, which is identical to the GC3 in terms of hardware components, accuracy and performance; the two devices are the same. The main difference between the two is the included software. While the GC3 is an all-inclusive unit that is sold with simulation software out of the box (FSX 2020, FSX Play and FSX Performance APP), the Launch Pro is sold without software (which explains the huge price gap between the two); you don’t get any software without a subscription, and you can only use the LCD touchscreen to get readings of your shots and even lose a few metrics like attack angle and club path.

Bushnell Launch Pro Monitor
Bushnell Launch Pro Monitor

That said, the Bushnell Launch Pro is still a great unit, especially for those who are not interested in the bells and whistles of virtual golf and are only interested in the tour-level data accuracy provided by the Launch Pro to improve their game or use it for professional purposes. It is also perfect for driving range practice, on the golf course, or with a DIY sim setup.

Pros

  • Highly accurate measurements thanks to the photometric system
  • Versatile performance for indoor and outdoor use
  • Instant data display for easy analysis and improvement
  • Portable design for use anywhere, anytime
  • The Launch Pro is a more budget-friendly alternative to the GC3 with the same performance- minus the software.

Cons

  • GC3 priced at $7,500, which may be out of reach for some golfers. Lowering the cost with the Launch Pro entails losing software features and metrics.

Overall, the Foresight Sports GC3 / Bushnell Launch Pro Launch Monitors are excellent options for any golfer looking for a highly portable launch monitor with excellent accuracy.

Check Also: Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor Detailed Review

The triple-camera photometric system and instant data display make both units a top choice for indoor and outdoor use. And, even though it may be priced higher than some other budget options, the GC3 is a premium model that offers top-notch measurement technology. For those not interested in simulation, investing in the Bushnell Launch Pro is the next best thing.

#3 - Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor

garmin approach r10.

The Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor is a fantastic tool that can help you improve your golf game by providing accurate metrics. This highly affordable and portable launch monitor is a great investment that can help you track your progress while fine-tuning your swings and hits.

The R10 is a compact device that can be used at the driving range or on the golf course. It provides detailed club path parameters that are essential in improving your game. The device connects to the Garmin Golf App which provides metrics related to your ball and club. This way, you can get accurate and reliable measurements of your golf shots and make informed decisions.

One of the unique features of the Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor is the shot dispersion charts it provides for your training sessions. This feature is great for analyzing each club’s stats and improving your shot’s consistency. This allows you to adjust your swing to achieve optimal results and an overall better game, ultimately leading to a lower handicap.

Additionally, the R10 provides virtual play capabilities that let you simulate playing on famous golf courses worldwide. This feature is an excellent option for golfers who want to experience new locations in a virtual setting. It also supports, besides Garmin’s Home Tee Hero (through a subscription to Garmin’s App), other 3rd party simulation software like TGC2019, E6 Connect, Awesome Golf, and GSPro.

Pros

  • Affordable option
  • Detailed club path measurements
  • Essential metrics provided
  • 42,000+ virtual courses accessible with a subscription to Garmin’s Golf App
  • Support for all major simulation software
  • Very compact and portable
  • Amazing battery life of up to 10 hours of use

Cons

  • Occasionally struggles with spin tracking
  • Pretty significant impact on accuracy when used indoors

Overall, the Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor is an excellent option for novice and advanced golfers looking to improve their game. With its affordability, portability, innovative features, and virtual play capabilities, this device can make a significant impact on your game.

With an excellent accuracy score, the R10 provides an affordable option to measure your swing speeds, ball speeds, and other key metrics to help you achieve your desired results.

#4 - Rapsodo MLM 2 Pro Launch Monitor

rapsodo mlm2pro

The Rapsodo MLM 2 Pro launch monitor was one the most hyped golf tech products after its launch in 2023, and for a good reason.

Using a combination of Doppler radar and two cameras, the Rapsodo MLM 2 Pro is the most accurate in its price range (costing around $700). The built-in camera tracks ball accuracy, while the second camera records swings at 240fps, making it an excellent option for viewing recorded clips of your shots in slow motion with data overlay so that you can exactly pinpoint areas of improvement.

The Rapsodo MLM 2 Pro doesn’t just offer accuracy. It comes with new and improved user-friendly features that make it fun and easy to use. The battery life is good and will last longer than a usual round (4 hours), and the barometric sensor ensures that every session’s data is accurate.

Pros

  • The Rapsodo MLM 2 Pro provides precise ball data.
  • The two cameras provide an accurate recording of your swings.
  • New and improved user-friendly features and beautiful design.
  • Competitively priced.
  • One of the best golf launch monitors under $1,000 on the market.

Cons

  • It requires the use of phones or mobile devices to access its comprehensive analyses.

If you’re an average golfer looking to up your golf game, the Rapsodo MLM 2 Pro launch monitor is an excellent option. Its accurate ball data and swing analysis will provide you with instant feedback to improve your game.

The device offers some great features at an affordable price, making it one of the best golf launch monitors for under $1,000 on the market.

#5 - FlightScope X3 Launch Monitor

flightscope x3 launch monitor

Having a high-quality launch monitor can be a game-changer. One of the top models on the market today is the FlightScope X3 Launch Monitor. It is Flightscope’s most advanced launch monitor to date.

Whether you’re an elite player or an average golfer, this professional-grade launch monitor offers accurate data and incredible capabilities to help you perfect your swing. It provides data points for your full swings as well as short game (putting and chipping).

The FlightScope X3 is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used both indoors and outdoors for practice, lessons, and club fitting. It is highly accurate thanks to its Doppler radar technology and barometric sensor, combined with a built-in camera, which records data points such as ball speed, club speed, launch angle, spin rate, and more. The combination of technologies used to maximize tracking accuracy is what Flightscope calls Fusion Tracking Technology.

The FlightScope X3 also provides detailed information on apex height, spin loft, and shot dispersion, which can help you make sense of the collected data and act accordingly.

Elite players will particularly appreciate the FlightScope X3’s wedge-tracking system, which offers detailed information on club face angles and attack angles. This system allows for an in-depth analysis of wedge play, helping players to improve their precision and accuracy around the greens.

Pros

  • Professional-grade accuracy
  • Indoor/outdoor capabilities
  • Wedge-tracking system for detailed analysis
  • Records multiple data elements for comprehensive swing analysis
  • Portable and easy to use
  • Excellent option for club fitting and instruction

Cons

  • Premium model with a higher price point
  • Might not be suitable for beginners, as they May be confused with the panoply of data and features the X3 provides

Overall, the FlightScope X3 Launch Monitor is an excellent option for anyone looking for a portable launch monitor that offers premium features and excellent accuracy.

Whether you’re working on your swing at the driving range or practicing on a golf simulator, the FlightScope X3 can give you instant feedback to help you improve your game.

#6 - Uneekor EYE MINI Launch Monitor

uneekor eye mini

As a golfer and fan of Uneekor’s products and innovation, I was excited to try out the EYE MINI and see how it fares compared to other launch monitors in the market. One of the standout features of the EYE MINI is its portability.

The EYE MINI is the company’s first portable launch monitor; it uses a dual camera configuration backed by Infrared sensors, just like that of the EYE XO. The unit is very accurate, and its built-in battery can last up to 6 hours, which is plenty for you to finish one or two 18-hole rounds per charge.

You can easily take the EYE MINI with you wherever you go and practice your swing on the range or at home. Despite its compact size of 6.5” L x 6.6” W x 15.75” H and light weight of about 7 lbs, it accurately captures 11 data points and provides valuable feedback for every swing.

The EYE MINI’s portability doesn’t compromise its performance. You can measure ball speed, side spin, backspin, launch angle, carry distance, and more. Additionally, the EYE MINI club stickers allow you to capture club data such as club speed, attack angle, and smash factor. The View Software is another great feature that provides you with shot visualizations and ball and club data. You can use it for unlimited practice sessions and track your progress over time.

You can also integrate popular software options with your View software, including TGC2019, E6 Connect and GSPro, which are all officially supported on this device.

Pros

  • Portable and easy to carry around
  • Accurately captures and measures ball and club data
  • Multiple simulation software supported
  • Adding extra cameras allows for video playback of the ball and swing through the Uneekor Optix technology.

Cons

  • Priced at $4,500, might not be affordable for some golfers
  • Requires EYE MINI club stickers to capture club data

Overall, the Uneekor EYE MINI is an excellent choice for golfers seeking a portable launch monitor that provides accurate and reliable feedback. Its compact size and powerful performance make it stand out from other launch monitors in the market.

It seems that Uneekor’s first attempt into the portable launch monitor market was a winning formula. Now, Uneekor’s quality and innovation can be taken and used outdoors thanks to the EYE MINI.

#7 - FlightScope Mevo Plus Launch Monitor- 2023 Edition

flightscope mevo plus launch monitor 2023

The FlightScope Mevo Plus Launch Monitor is an excellent and affordable portable golf launch monitor that can fit in the palm of your hand.

The device has recently been upgraded to a new 2023 Edition, which now offers improved battery life, a durable kickstand, and expanded features in the bundled E6 CONNECT software, including PC compatibility.

The Mevo+ is one of the best portable launch monitors on the market. One notable feature of the unit is its compatibility with a large number of simulator software providers, making it a versatile option for golfers. The unit comes with a more basic version of E6 Connect out of the box, which can be upgraded to the expanded plan for more features. TGC2019, GSPro, Creative Golf 3D, and Awesome Golf are also supported.

The Mevo Plus works with several apps and software out-of-the-box, providing excellent accuracy and instant feedback, through its radar system and Flightscope’s Fusion Tracking Technology, on key metrics such as ball speed, club speed, launch angle, spin rate, and more. Its compact dimensions allow for easy portability, and it can easily fit into any golf bag, making it perfect for use on the driving range, the course, or at home.

Pros

  • Improved battery life over the original launch monitor
  • Expanded features in the bundled E6 CONNECT software
  • Compatible with a large selection of simulator software
  • Small and portable design
  • Affordable option with great value for the money

Cons

  • As a Doppler radar unit, accuracy is reduced indoors

The FlightScope Mevo Plus Launch Monitor is an excellent option for golfers looking for an accurate, affordable, and portable launch monitor.

With a bunch of welcome improvements over the original unit, the 2023 Version is now more durable and reliable than ever before, making it an ideal choice for any average golfer looking to improve their game without breaking the bank.

#8 - Ernest Sports ES Tour Plus Launch Monitor

ernest sports es tour plus launch monitor

After extensively testing the Ernest Sports ES Tour Plus, I can confidently say that it is one of the best portable launch monitors on the market. Its compact design takes up minimal space, and it is easy to move around, making it perfect for indoor or outdoor use.

But don’t let its tiny size fool you – this launch monitor is packed with features that will help you improve your golf skills. With four Doppler radars and dual high-speed photometric cameras, it provides accurate directional and spin measurements, giving you over 20 data points to help you fine-tune your game. And with its upgraded display, you can easily read your stats and track your progress.

The ES Tour Plus was primarily designed for indoor use, but it can also be used outdoors and still provide essential data points like club speed, ball speed, spin rate, launch angle, smash factor, and distance. And with its easy-to-use design, you can quickly switch between modes and start tracking your shots in no time.

The ES Golf App can be downloaded and used with the unit, and it uses color-coded club fitting and comparison tools, which is great for professional fitters, as this feature allows you to get side-by-side comparisons of up to 5 different clubs of the same category (like comparing five drivers or configurations to see which work best for you).

Pros

  • Compact and portable design
  • Packed with advanced technology for accurate measurements
  • Flexible use for both indoor and outdoor settings
  • Easy-to-read display for tracking progress

Cons

  • Limited to six data points when used outdoors

Overall, I highly recommend Ernest Sport’s ES Tour Plus for anyone looking for a portable launch monitor that doesn’t compromise on accuracy or features. Its portability and advanced technology make it a great investment for golfers of all skill levels.

Buying Guide: Things to Consider in A Portable Launch Monitor

There are a few factors that can affect your choice of a specific launch monitor. Let’s go through the most important ones in detail to help you make the best decision possible.

Parameters

When selecting the best portable launch monitor, it’s crucial to consider the essential parameters that the unit tracks. These parameters include ball speed, club speed, carry distance, launch angle, angle of attack, spin rate, and face angle, among many other things. Understanding these data points is crucial to help you improve your golf game.

It’s worth noting that different launch monitors will offer different parameters, and therefore, the number of data points will vary depending on the size and price of the launch monitor. Therefore, it’s important to choose one that captures all the essential data points you need.

Before using a launch monitor, it’s important to have a solid grasp of the various statistics and metrics provided in the data. Key numbers like club speed, ball speed, launch angle and spin rate each offer insight into your swing and shot shaping are covered in our guide on how to read launch monitor data. Taking the time to learn what the data means will allow you to better utilize your launch monitor for skill development.

So, make sure the unit you choose provides all the data you need and can actually understand and use. For example, the most advanced units like Trackman, the GCQuad, X3, etc. provide long lists of metrics that are most useful to professional and advanced golfers; for beginners, the number of metrics can be overwhelming, confusing and potentially impossible to understand.

Start by investing in a more affordable unit that provides metrics you actually need, and then make your way up to the more advanced units as your game advances and requires more advanced data.

Accuracy

Accuracy is crucial when it comes to selecting a portable launch monitor for your golf game. The accuracy of a launch monitor depends on the number of its build quality and the tracking technology(ies) it uses, which eventually affects the price of the device.

Premium models of launch monitors that measure multiple parameters can provide more accurate calculations, but they come with a higher price tag. However, customer reviews reveal that you can still find excellent options with high accuracy variation and measurement of essential parameters without paying a premium. Devices such as the Flightscope Mevo+, Garmin Approach R10 and Skytrak are popular choices.

For an in-depth analysis of the most accurate portable golf launch monitors, we put the leading models to the test, evaluating their accuracy, ease of use, and overall performance.

Most importantly, when you’re selecting a portable launch monitor, it’s wise to gauge its accuracy through customer reviews. By doing so, you can ensure that you’re selecting a launch monitor that is right for your game and provides instant feedback that will help improve your overall performance on the course.

Indoors, Outdoors or Both?

Consider whether you’ll be using your new launch monitor indoors, outdoors, or both.

launch monitor 1

If you’re planning to use it indoors, a photometric launch monitor may be the better option, as it uses high-speed cameras to track the ball and provide key metrics like ball speed, launch angle, and spin rate. Photometric monitors are also more compact and easier to set up and use in confined spaces. They perform optimally indoors.

If you want to use the monitor exclusively indoors, then an overhead unit that attaches to the ceiling is a great option; this keeps it safe from any potential accidents. Examples of overhead units include Uneekor’s QED, EYE XO and EYE XO2, Trugolf’s Apogee and Foresight Sports’ GCHawk. These are all top-of-the-line photometric units that cost a lot of money, but they provide unparalleled performance indoors.

For outdoor use, a radar-based launch monitor may be the better option. It uses Doppler radar technology to provide accurate readings of ball and club data. However, radar monitors require more space to accurately track the ball’s flight. If you don’t have enough space indoors, the readings may not be as accurate as you’d like. Most radar units tend to see their accuracy decrease slightly when used indoors.

There are also portable launch monitors that come with both photometric and radar technology, making them a good option for both indoor and outdoor use. However, these premium models are usually very expensive. Excellent examples include the Foresight Sports X3 and Trackman 4.

Ease of Use

Ease of use is essential. You want a device that is easy to set up and use right away without being bogged down by overwhelming features. The FlightScope Mevo+, Skytrak and Garmin’s Approach R10 are excellent options for their ease of use. They offer simple setups and basic information such as ball and club speed, carry distance, and launch angle without overwhelming functions. The Mevo+ also provides spin rate and apex height, while the Rapsodo MLM2Pro offers shot tracer and shot dispersion data. However, some beginners may find these features confusing at first.

If simplicity and ease of use are your priority, we suggest you stay away from the premium launch monitors that cost five figures and opt for something more affordable (and accurate). Those tour-level launch monitors are designed with the needs of professional and advanced golfers in mind; the software interface and data are a better fit for pro golfers who can understand and benefit from the complicated data and algorithms involved in such advanced systems.

Most affordable and mid-range portable launch monitors offer straightforward setup and basic information. They are perfect for beginners or those who want to focus on improving their game without being overwhelmed by data.

Size & Weight

launch monitor garmin r10

Portable launch monitors are designed to be small and light, making them easy to carry in your golf bag or by hand. Pocket-sized launch monitors are even smaller and lighter, but they can have limited options when it comes to measuring your golf swing. However, there are many accurate and popular launch monitors that strike the perfect balance between size and accuracy.

The Garmin Approach R10, Ernest Sports ES Tour Plus, PRGR HS-130A, and Rapsodo MLM2Pro provide an excellent portability level that is unmatched by other portable units. They are pocket-sized and weigh very little. They also provide excellent accuracy and great value for the money.

The SkyTrak & kytrak+ Launch Monitors, along with the Flightscope Mevo+, Full Swing’s Kit, etc. are also portable, but they are larger in size and heavier than the units mentioned above. Still, they offer unparalleled accuracy for measuring spin rate, launch angle, and shot dispersion. The larger size enables more features and slightly better accuracy.

Other launch monitors like the Foresight Sports GC3, Bushnell’s Launch Pro, Uneekor’s EYE MINI and Flightscope’s X3 (reviewed here) are much better in terms of accuracy and performance, but they are bulkier units because of the extra hardware components they include (more cameras and radar systems for increased accuracy). One main reason we didn’t include the excellent Foresight Sports GCQuad in our selection of the best portable units was that, despite being portable, it is a bulky launch monitor that weighs more than the other units. Think of the GCQuad as the least portable of portable launch monitors.

While a smaller size can sometimes mean limited features, there are plenty of excellent options available when it comes to portable launch monitors. Consider what features are most important to you and choose the launch monitor that suits your needs and budget.

Smartphone/Tablet Apps

tablet app

With a portable launch monitor that relies on smartphone/tablet apps, golfers can easily communicate with the device to get instant feedback on key metrics. These apps are generally easy to navigate and hassle-free, allowing you to concentrate on your swing.

If you intend to use your launch monitor with a smart device (indoors or out), check beforehand to ensure the unit is compatible with your smart device’s operating system. Not all launch monitors and apps support all systems; some support both IOS (for iPhones and Ipads), while others support Android devices (by Samsung, Google, etc.). Some apps support both IOS and Android.

Radar vs Photometric Technology

You may be wondering which technology is better in portable launch monitors: radar or photometric.

Doppler radar technology uses radio waves to track the speed and distance of your shots. On the other hand, photometric technology uses high-speed cameras to track multiple facets of the impact zone.

Manufacturers use these technologies to measure key metrics of your game. Some of the top 10 portable launch monitors on the market today use photometric technology exclusively, accounting for around 60% of the list.

Photometric technology has some advantages over radar technology since it can be used both indoors and outdoors and track metrics accurately (as long as the lens is not in direct sunlight); photometric units excel in indoor settings. Also, because they use cameras for tracking, many photometric units allow for video recording and playback of slow-motion videos of your swings.

Despite these benefits, radar technology is still the industry’s favorite. It is known for its excellent accuracy and instant feedback, especially outdoors where radar gets unlimited ball flight to track metrics accurately. Radar tracking is the preferred choice for most professionals, and the best example is Trackman.

Budget

golf budgeting

It’s important to find a launch monitor that fits your needs and budget without breaking the bank. Options range from the affordable Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor to more premium models like the FlightScope X3 or FS GCQuad.

It’s important to know that usually, the more you pay, the more you get in terms of features, performance and accuracy. Better models usually cost many times the prices of entry or mid-level units, but they also provide much more stuff and are much more technologically advanced.

With that said, you don’t have to invest in the priciest launch monitors to enjoy high levels of accuracy; more budget-friendly options like Skytrak, Flightscope Mevo+ and Garmin Approach R10 also offer good performance and accuracy. Units like the Bushnell Launch Pro, Skytrak+ and the Full Swing Kit fall in the mid-range category, but they offer great accuracy and performance for their prices.

No matter what your budget is, it’s important to research and compare products before making a purchase decision. By finding a launch monitor that meets your needs and fits your budget, you can improve your game without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of golf has seen rapid advancement in portable launch monitor technology in recent years, with several top-quality options available in the market. When selecting a portable launch monitor, it is crucial to consider specific needs and usage types.

The models we’ve discussed in this article are some of the best on the market, offering a range of features and price points to suit different needs.

Ultimately, it is important to match your specific needs with the right launch monitor and invest in a portable launch monitor that will best serve your usage type. So whether you are a professional golfer, a frequent driving range visitor, or an average golfer seeking to improve your game, there is a portable launch monitor for you.

Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions.

Happy golfing!

WRITTEN BY

Photo of author

Walter Wilfong

Walter J. Wilfong is a golf enthusiast and a huge fan of virtual golf. His interest in the game dates back to his childhood growing up in Florida. In his professional career, he began working in the golf industry in the 80s and is currently the Director of Operations for a company specializing in golf training and equipment sales.

Leave a Comment