The Bushnell Launch Pro and Garmin Approach R10 are two of the most popular launch monitors in the market today. Both of these devices offer a wide range of features that are designed to help golfers improve their game by providing accurate data on club and ball performance. But which one is the better choice for you?
In this article, we’ll compare the Bushnell Launch Pro and Garmin Approach R10 to help you make an informed decision. We’ll look at the key features of each device, including accuracy, ease of use, and portability.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how these two launch monitors stack up against each other.
Keep reading to find out which one is the right choice for you.
Garmin Approach R10 First Impressions
The Garmin Approach R10 is compact and easy to set up. Upon initial inspection, the sleek design and compact size are impressive features that make it stand out from other bulkier monitors on the market. The unit is also made from durable materials that feel good in the hand.
Setting up the Garmin Approach R10 is easy thanks to the step-by-step instructions and the user-friendly interface. The monitor itself requires minimal assembly, and with the help of the accompanying mobile app, you can quickly pair your device and start analyzing your golf game without any hassle.
In terms of accuracy, the Garmin Approach R10 uses Doppler radar to provide reliable data, especially considering its price range. However, as with any launch monitor, it’s essential to have realistic expectations about what it can and cannot do. While the device can measure ball speed, clubhead speed, and launch angle, it might not provide the same level of detail as some more expensive models. That said, user reviews are generally positive.
Bushnell Launch Pro First Impressions
The Bushnell Launch Pro is a popular portable launch monitor that offers accurate readings of ball speed, launch angle, and clubhead speed using three high-speed cameras.
The Bushnell Launch Pro is very easy to use, with touch-enabled and intuitive head-up display. You can quickly set it up and use it without too much fuss. It is compatible with mobile devices, allowing you to save and analyze your data.
The Launch Pro is an accurate and professional-grade launch monitor. With its impressive accuracy, it is suitable for professional golfers who want to track their performance. The portable device can easily fit in your golf bag for use in driving ranges and on-course practice. Additionally, It is much cheaper compared to other expensive models in the market.
The device’s photometric technology is not as advanced as some other radar-based launch monitors, which leads to occasional missed shots. Also, the Bushnell Launch Pro is not the most suitable option for a casual player, as it does not have a subscription package for basic users. The battery life of 5-7 hours is also a little bit shorter compared to other portable launch monitors in the market, but it gets the job done.
The Bushnell Launch Pro offers valuable insights to professional golfers looking to improve their performance, from club path to angle of attack. While it’s not perfect, the device’s accuracy and portability make it a favored choice among professional golfers.
Bushnell Launch Pro Vs. Garmin Approach R10 Comparison Overview
Both devices offer a range of features and benefits, making it important to understand the similarities and differences between them.
Let’s take a closer look.
Pricing and Payment Structure
When comparing the Bushnell Launch Pro and the Garmin Approach R10 golf launch monitors, price is a major differentiating factor. The Garmin R10 is available at a much more affordable price point of $599- with subscription to the Garmin Golf App costing $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year.
The Launch Pro starts at $2,999. However, it’s important to note that Bushnell has recently updated its pricing for the Launch Pro’s software subscription.
Here are the new pricing changes for the Bushnell Launch Pro:
- Basic subscription: $249/year
- Silver subscription: $499/year
- Gold subscription: $699/year
In addition, the Unlocked Subscription (which includes all features via a one-time payment) has been reduced to $3,499 from its previous price of $3,999.
Bushnell’s subscription packages offer different levels of features for the Launch Pro, ranging from the Basic package, which includes ball speed, clubhead speed, and launch angle, to the top-of-the-line Gold package, which includes all features and access to virtual golf courses. The Silver package falls in between the Basic and Gold packages.
Features
The Bushnell Launch Pro and Garmin Approach R10 are two portable launch monitors that offer golfers the ability to accurately track their shots and improve their game.
Tracking Metrics
The Garmin Approach R10 directly measures 6 data points (ball speed, clubhead speed, launch angle & direction, backswing & downswing times); those parameters are then used to calculate additional metrics (marked with * in the table below).
The Bushnell Launch Pro provides 7 metrics out of the box (marked with * in the table below), without any subscription. If you opt for any subscription plan (basic, silver or gold), the number jumps to 17 extremely accurate metrics, with some only available with the FSX Software (marked with **).
Here is a table with all the data points:
| R10 Metrics | Launch Pro Metrics |
| Ball Speed Club Head Speed Launch Angle Launch Direction Backswing time Downswing time *Carry Distance *Smash Factor *Apex (max height) *Face Angle Face to Path * Smash Factor *Swing Tempo *Spin Rate *Spin axis *Angle of Attack *Club Path Angle *Deviation and Deviation Distance | Carry Distance* Ball Speed* Total Spin* Vertical Launch Angle* Horizontal Launch Angle* Spin Tilt Axis Back Spin Side Spin Club Head Speed* Smash Factor* Club Path Angle of Attack Total Distance + Run Distance ** Offline Distance ** Descent Angle ** Peak Height ** |
Please note that despite the number of metrics being close between the two units, the fact that the majority of the R10’s data points are estimates calculated through software algorithms (using the tracked points), while the Bushnell Pro’s data points are all tracked through its multiple-camera system, shows that the Launch Pro is superior in terms of reliability and accuracy.
Camera/Sensor Technology
The Bushnell Launch Pro uses patented photometric technology (with infrared sensors) to accurately measure shot data. It uses a triple-camera system, similar to that of the Foresight Sports GC3 (both the GC3 and the Launch Pro are identical in terms of hardware).
The Garmin Approach R10 uses a Doppler radar system for precise shot tracking. It also has the ability to pair with your smartphone and use the phone’s camera to record videos of your shots. A handy phone holder is included in the package, which can be used to attach the phone to your golf bag and record videos.
Simulator Capabilities
Both the Garmin Approach R10 and the Bushnell Launch Pro offer simulation capabilities. More details are provided in the upcoming section.
Compatibility & Software Subscriptions
The R10 is compatible with the Garmin Golf App ($9.99/ month or $99.99/year) which offers over 42,000 virtual courses. It is also compatible with Trugolf’s E6 Connect software (Basic and Expanded Subscription), TGC 2019 with over 150,000 courses, and can seamlessly connect to Awesome Golf. A subscription o the software is required to benefit from all available features.
Bushnell’s Launch Pro is compatible with all Foresight Sports’ software options, including FSX2020 (plenty of features and game modes), FSX Play (better graphics- planned to include all the features of FSX2020), and FSX Pro (Dedicated to game insights and data analysis- most useful for coaches and professional fitters). The Trugolf E6 Connect is compatible with the Launch Pro, too; we expect more simulation software to add support for the Launch Pro in the near future.
Depending on the software you’re using, both devices can be used with a computer or an IOS or Android device.
Additional Features
The R10 is extremely portable, and boasts an impressive battery life of up to 10 hours, making it perfect for golfing on the go, while the Launch Pro triple-camera system ensures extreme, tour-level accuracy and the ability to record your swings for future reference.
Accuracy
When it comes to accuracy, the Bushnell Launch Pro and Garmin Approach R10 are both impressive options.
The Bushnell Launch Pro uses photometric technology and provides accurate measurements for more than enough data points to help improve your game. It’s also portable and compatible with most mobile devices.
The Garmin Approach R10 uses Doppler radar to provide accurate readings for your crucial data. It is more accurate outdoors, where it can have unlimited ball flight for better tracking.
While the Bushnell Launch Pro excels indoors, it still keeps an excellent accuracy level when used outdoors. The Garmin Approach R10, on the other hand, performs brilliantly outdoors (as you’d expect from a radar unit), but its accuracy is affected indoors. It might not be a big deal for some, but it is a fatal flaw for those who want a unit for indoor usage primarily.
Ease of Use
When it comes to ease of use, both the Bushnell Launch Pro and Garmin Approach R10 are user-friendly, even for beginners. However, each device has special features that set them apart from one another.
The Launch Pro does have an LED screen that is strategically positioned to help you see your data easily and immediately after the swing. You can customize the display to select which data to receive and display on the screen, and you don’t need to check your mobile device (especially while playing outdoors), which is very practical and gives the Launch Pro an advantage over the R10.
Setup & Connection
To set up the Launch Pro, first make sure it is fully charged, and then follow these steps the first time you power up the unit:
- Push the red power button at the rear of the device
- Once the unit is on (front light illuminates), tap on the top of the screen and choose the settings icon
- Go to WIFI and then Connect
- Once the device is connected to the Internet, a scannable QR code is displayed
- Scan the QR code with your smartphone or tablet to register your unit (by following simple prompts). You will need an FSX account for the registration; you will need to sign in if you already have an account or sign up to create one.
- Once you’re signed in and the product is registered, you will have to choose a software subscription plan for your device (Basic, Silver, Gold, or Unlocked); after that, check out.
- The Launch Pro and your smart device (or computer) must be connected to the same WIFI network to be paired; once they are, just place the unit properly, calibrate it with the calibration stick and start using it.
Note: The steps above must be followed the first time you use the device. After that, you will only need to turn it on and place it properly to use it.
The Garmin Approach R10 is equally easy to set up and use. You will need to register your product and choose a software plan. After that, you will need to pair the R10 with your smartphone or tablet (support for both IOS and Android- open the Garmin Golf App and go to select a Garmin device and select the R10), make sure the unit is properly placed (behind the hitting point), and start using it.
Data Display & Storage
With Bushnell Launch Pro, your data can be displayed on its 3.5-inch LCD screen, making it easy to read your ball speed, club head speed, and launch angle, among other things. The device saves your data for your convenience and better analysis of your performance. In this aspect, the Launch Pro is more convenient.
The Garmin Approach R10 can save your data using its companion app. The app displays more comprehensive data, including ball flight, club path, and spin rate. Your data is securely stored in the app and can be easily retrieved anytime.
Garmin Approach R10 Strength Points
The Garmin Approach R10 is an affordable and portable launch monitor that can help you improve your game by tracking your most essential data.
Here are some of the selling points that set the Garmin Approach R10 apart from other launch monitors:
- Archives Club Stats: The R10 stores data for each club you use, allowing you to analyze your performance and make informed changes to your game.
- Smartphone Compatible: The Garmin Golf app allows you to connect your phone to the R10, making it easy to view your stats and track your progress over time.
- Long Battery Life: With up to 10 hours of battery life, the R10 can withstand lengthy practice sessions and full rounds on the course.
- Waterproof: The R10 is built to withstand all weather conditions, so you don’t need to worry about using it in rain or other inclement weather.
- Affordable Price: Compared to other launch monitors on the market, the Garmin Approach R10 is an affordable option that doesn’t skimp on features.
Bushnell Launch Pro Strength Points
The Bushnell Launch Pro launch monitor has several selling points that make it an attractive option for golfers of all skill levels. Here are a few examples:
- Accuracy: One of the most significant selling points of the Bushnell Launch Pro is its accuracy. It uses photometric technology to measure important metrics with high precision both indoors and out.
- Wireless Connectivity: The Launch Pro also comes with wireless internet connectivity, making it easy to share data with other devices and analyze your results in real time. WIFI Connectivity provides more stability over Bluetooth (used by the R10).
- Free Software Package: The Bushnell Launch Pro also includes a free year of the basic software package, giving you access to performance tracking, golf simulator capabilities, and the ability to play up to 10 different courses. It also comes with a 30-day free trial of the Gold Subscription to get an idea of what to expect in case you upgrade.
- Easy Set-Up: Setting up the Launch Pro is simple, whether you’re using it on the practice range or in your backyard. It’s a portable device that you can use with your mobile device, and its compatibility with both iOS and Android means that it can work with most smartphones and tablets.
However, it’s worth noting that the Launch Pro has a shorter battery life than the R10, with 5 to 7 hours of use (compared to the R10’s 10 hours).
Who is the Garmin Approach R10 for?
At a cost of just $599, the R10 is an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on performance. Compared to more expensive models, it has slightly fewer features but still provides valuable club data metrics.
The R10 is best for those who want an affordable launch monitor with great value. It provides enough metrics and features to help improve your game. When compared to pricier models, it offers fewer features and sometimes struggles with spin reading, and it is also less accurate indoors. However, at its price point, it is still a great value launch monitor.
Who is the Bushnell Launch Pro for?
The Bushnell Launch Pro is designed for serious golfers who want to enhance their swing and get accurate data about their shots. This launch monitor provides pinpoint accuracy in measuring distance, launch angle, and carry distance consistently, both indoors and outdoors.
It provides tour-level accuracy, and when tested against other advanced monitors, there was a difference in negligible readings below 2 points (except for ball speed, where the difference jumped to 5 points for some reason). Overall, the Launch Pro’s accuracy is consistent indoors and outdoors and comparable to that of the industry’s most advanced units costing three times or more its price.
However, if you are a casual golfer or are not willing to invest in a launch monitor that provides advanced shot/ball metrics like side spin, backspin, spin tilt axis, club path, and angle of attack, then you might consider looking for simpler and more affordable options. The Bushnell Launch Pro suits golfers who want to take their game to the next level and do not mind spending extra money on sophisticated metrics.
I have the feeling the Bushnell Launch Pro was designed for use on the course or driving range; it can be used with a simulator and provide a lot of fun game modes and features, but it is intended for more advanced players mostly interested in the multitude of data points tracked in pinpoint accuracy. No doubt the simulation of virtual courses and games is interesting and fun, but it is not the main attraction for this unit.
It is a launch monitor intended to be used mainly as a launch monitor and provide professional-grade data!
Bottom Line: Which One Should I Buy?
Basically, if you are a pro golfer or serious about improving your game, and you want consistently accurate data from your launch monitor, then the Bushnell Launch Pro is your best bet. It is much more expensive than the R10, but at the same time, it is much more affordable than its (almost) twin- the Foresight Sports GC3, the GCQuad, Flightscope’s X3, or Trackman 4. The Launch Pro is in the middle ground between affordable and expensive launch monitors (and might be classified as an upper-mid-level or lower-high-level launch monitor).
If you are a casual golfer who needs a reliable and portable unit without spending much, the R10 is the option to go for. You will get great performance and features for the price you pay; just keep your expectations reasonable and don’t take them too high!
Conclusion
After comparing the Bushnell Launch Pro and Garmin Approach R10, it’s clear that both devices have their strengths and weaknesses.
Ultimately, the decision of which device to choose will depend on your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize accuracy and precision, then the Bushnell Launch Pro may be the better option for you. If you value budget-friendliness, portability, ease of use, and sleek design, then the Garmin Approach R10 may be the better choice.
Regardless of which device you choose, both are excellent options for improving your golf game.
Let us know in the comments which launch monitor you’ve gone with and why! We’d love to hear your thoughts.
Happy swinging!
