If you’re serious about improving your golf game, investing in a launch monitor is a must. The Foresight Sports GCQuad is one of the most advanced launch monitors on the market, offering unparalleled accuracy and a wide range of features. It is considered by many to be the most technologically advanced portable photometric unit!
In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Foresight Sports GCQuad launch monitor, exploring its key features, pros and cons, and overall performance.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this review will help you determine if the GCQuad is the right choice for your needs. So let’s dive in!
Product Overview
The Foresight Sports GCQuad Launch Monitor is a high-end launch monitor that offers unparalleled accuracy and precision. With instant data collection through its photometric-based system, it provides real-time club data, ball performance, and launch data, including advanced metrics like loft at impact, club speed, ball speed, angle at impact, horizontal and vertical launch angle, impact location, impact face angle, and impact lie.
Aside from its advanced data collection system, the Foresight Sports GCQuad Launch Monitor is also designed with practicality in mind. It weighs 7.5 pounds (3.8 kg) and measures 7″ (w) x 4″ (d) x 12.5″ (h). It also comes with an included USB-C cable for easy and convenient charging.
The Foresight Sports GCQuad also features cloud-based data retrieval that enables users to access their data from anywhere with internet access. Moreover, it includes a club marker dispenser and club markers for easy club identification during practice sessions or on the driving range.
Who Is Foresight Sports?
Foresight Sports is a leading technology company that specializes in developing innovative launch monitor solutions for golf enthusiasts and professionals alike. The company was founded in 2009, and its flagship product, the GC2, was quickly adopted by the PGA Tour and became a fan favorite.
In 2022, Foresight Sports was acquired by Vista Outdoors, a prominent outdoor sports and recreation company. With this acquisition, Foresight Sports gained access to increased resources and expanded its reach within the golf community.
Foresight Sports is also in an exclusive partnership with Bushnell (also a daughter company of Vista Outdoors), a top manufacturer of golf rangefinders and other accessories. This partnership has allowed Foresight Sports to integrate its cutting-edge technologies into Bushnell products and expand its offerings to more individuals and businesses, mainly through the Bushnell Launch Pro launch monitor (which is identical to the FS GC3).
First Impressions
First impressions of the Foresight Sports GCQuad launch monitor are overwhelmingly positive. Its sleek and modern design immediately catches the eye, with a sturdy build quality that leaves no doubt about its durability. Setting up and using the GCQuad is a breeze, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface that make navigation a breeze.
One of the standout features of the GCQuad is its ability to capture thousands of images per second, providing a complete picture of a golf shot’s club and ball performance. The launch monitor’s powerful simulation software offers real-time data analysis for club and ball performance, including club head speed, ball speed, club path, and launch angle. The GCQuad’s impact location and face angle tracking capabilities provide additional insights into a player’s swing mechanics.
The GCQuad’s compatibility with USB-C fast charging and its portable nature make it an ideal choice for players who want to take their launch monitor to the driving range or use it in their home golf simulator. There is an additional cost to access more courses, but the rich textures of Pebble Beach and other PGA Tour favorites add an element of realism to the experience.
For users who want to enhance their GCQuad experience and improve their game even further, investing in GCQuad accessories can be a worthwhile decision.
Set-Up & Ease of Use
Setting up and using the Foresight Sports GCQuad launch monitor is incredibly quick and effortless. The entire setup process requires just a few simple steps.
After unboxing the device, plug in the USB-C cable to an outlet to charge the battery. Once charged, turn on the device and start using it right away.
The GCQuad features an intuitive onboard display that provides real-time data with detailed pictures of club and ball performance.
The display is easy to read and understand, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned golfers.
For complete club data, you can opt to use the reflective dots that stick to your clubs. This will give you a complete picture of your club’s performance, from ball speed to club head speed, impact face angle to club path, and more.
GCQUAD Accuracy
This launch monitor uses pro-grade technology to capture images of the ball in real-time to model its launch data, providing detailed pictures of the club and ball performance.
The GCQuad’s accuracy rivals that of leading industry launch monitors, such as Trackman. When comparing the two professional-grade launch monitors, the results were very close, which proves the pinpoint accuracy of the GCQuad. Despite its higher price tag, the GCQuad is still cheaper than Trackman, so providing data that is as accurate as what many consider the benchmark of accuracy in the industry is a very good point for the GCQuad.
In addition, the Trackman, with its Doppler radar technology, is superior (not by much) outdoors thanks to an unlimited ball flight time. However, the GCQuad proves to be more accurate indoors, which is expected from a photometric unit using four high-speed cameras.
Compared to other mid-range launch monitors such as Skytrak, Skytrak + or Flightscope’s Mevo+, the GCQuad, as expected, has the upper hand. This makes the GCQuad launch monitor one of the most accurate and reliable launch monitors available for purchase today, with excellent accuracy both indoors and out.
Important Data Parameters GCQUAD Measures
Let’s go through the metrics that can be tracked by the GCQuad, focusing mainly on crucial ones. The unit can measure 25 data points, and you can get more data related to the clubhead and putting by integrating two optional addons: the Clubhead Measurement and Putting Analysis Addons.
Launch Angle
Launch Angle is a crucial metric in golf that can greatly impact a player’s shot distance and accuracy. It refers to the vertical angle at which a golf ball leaves the clubface, and its importance lies in the fact that too high or too low a launch angle can affect the ball’s trajectory and distance. This is where the GCQuad launch monitor excels, as it offers accurate measurements of Launch Angle, among other club and ball data.
Carry Distance
Carry distance refers to the distance the ball travels through the air from the moment it is struck by the golfer until it lands on the ground. It is the measurement of how far the ball travels without accounting for any roll or bounce after it lands.
The GCQuad provides incredibly accurate carry distance measurements. When testing a driver, 7-iron, and sand wedge, the device was able to deliver precise readings within a few yards of what was expected on an average day.
Backspin RPM
Backspin refers to the ball’s backward motion in the air after being struck by the club, causing it to have an upward lift and additional stopping power when it lands on the green. It is measured in Revolutions Per Minute (RPM).
For a driver, the expected backspin RPM should be between 2200-2800 RPM (anything below 3000 is considered optimal), whereas for a 7-iron, it should be around 7000-8000 RPM. For a 56-degree wedge, a backspin RPM of 8,000-9,000 RPM is ideal.
Backspin RPM plays a crucial role in determining the lift and trajectory of the ball. High backspin allows the ball to stay in the air longer, resulting in greater carry distance. Lower backspin, on the other hand, creates a flatter trajectory and less carry distance. Therefore, understanding backspin RPM can help golfers determine the optimal spin rate for their shots.
Total Distance
When it comes to measuring the total distance across different clubs, the GCQuad excels at providing precise and consistent measurements. It can accurately measure driver distance as well as the distance covered by other clubs such as irons and wedges. Thanks to its real-time tracking and detailed analysis of club performance data, the GCQuad enables golfers to adjust their swing and club selection for optimal results.
Full List Of Measured Metrics
Here is the full list of the data that can be provided by the GCQuad:
Ball Data:
- Spin
- Side spin
- Ball speed
- Vertical and horizontal launch angles
- Carry distance
Club Data: (Require the use of club markers & the Club Analysis addon)
- Clubface impact location
- Lie and loft at impact
- Club head speed
- Smash factor
- Club path
- Angle of attack
- Face angle
- Closure rate
Putting Data: (Putting analysis addon needed)
- spin-tilt axis
- impact location
- ball velocity
- horizontal launch direction
- vertical launch angle
- putter speed
- putter path
- smash factor
- angle of attack
- sidespin
- backspin
- total spin
- impact face angle
- impact lie
GCQuad Golf Simulation
There are four official options available for golf simulation while using the GCQuad. The available options include FSX 2020, FSX Play, E6 CONNECT, and Creative Golf 3D.
Trugolf E6 Connect
E6 Connect is an innovative golf simulation software that provides a range of features to enhance your golf experience. With E6 Connect, you can join tournaments, participate in online events, and play minigames like Long Drive and Closest to the Pin. The software also offers practice areas that allow you to hone your skills and improve your performance on the golf course.
To use E6 Connect, you’ll need to purchase an FSX 2020 license, which costs $3000. Once you have the license, you can connect the GCQuad launch monitor to the internet and access a range of features. There are various ways to connect the GCQuad to the internet, including using an Ethernet cable or wireless connection. To check the remaining days until registration renewal, simply go to the settings menu and select “Registration.”
Creative Golf 3D
Creative Golf 3D is a new golf simulation software that offers a refreshing alternative to E6 CONNECT and other golf simulations available in the market. It offers a wide range of features and functions that make it an excellent choice for golf enthusiasts looking for a unique and immersive golf experience.
One of the main selling points of Creative Golf 3D is the availability of 15 courses that are modeled after real-life golf courses, including Pebble Beach and other famous courses. Additionally, there are options to purchase additional courses, which means that golfers can always have a new challenge every time they play.
In terms of gameplay modes, Creative Golf 3D offers various options such as stroke play, match play, and skins game. Furthermore, the software offers Golfisimo, a unique game mode that challenges players to hit specific targets on the course. This mode adds an extra layer of excitement and competitiveness to the gameplay experience.
FSX 2020
FSX 2020 is Foresight Sports’ proprietary software designed for their GC line of commercial launch monitors. FSX 2020 offers various modes and options to suit the needs of golfers of different levels.
In Play mode, golfers can enjoy playing on standard and world-famous courses using the simulation software. The standard courses are designed to offer a realistic experience while the world-famous courses feature well-known courses like Pebble Beach, where golfers can test their skills. Compete mode allows golfers to play in tournaments with up to eight players, while Improve mode offers personalized coaching with detailed pictures and club performance analysis.
Despite being inferior in graphics, compared to FSX Play or E6 Connect, FSX 2020 is still an excellent and feature-rich software that offers plenty of game-improvement game modes and challenges.
FSX Play
FSX Play is the ultra-realistic simulator software from Foresight Sports that adds immense value to the GCQuad launch monitor experience. With three main modes, FSX Play offers a wide range of customization control options to create an enhanced simulation environment. The simulation software features an updated UI with a graphics engine that supports up to 5K resolution for rich textures and detailed pictures.
FSX Play differs from FSX 2020 by providing improved graphics and a more intuitive interface. It offers realistic gameplay options that cater to every player, from beginners to experts. The main modes include Target Practice, Skills Combines, and Games. Target Practice enables players to practice their aim by aiming at a virtual driving range, while Skills Combines tests every aspect of a player’s game. Games allow players to choose from a range of virtual courses, including renowned PGA tour venues.
FSX Play is the ultimate simulator experience that adds immense value to the GCQuad launch monitor. The company is working on integrating all the features and playable courses of FSX 2020 into FSX Play, which will make it one of the best overall simulation software on the market that combines excellent graphics and a variety of features, game modes, and playable courses.
GCQuad Cons
While the GCQuad launch monitor has many notable advantages, there are some potential concerns that users may have.
One of the drawbacks is the price tag, as the GCQuad is among the more expensive launch monitors on the market. In addition, there is an extra cost for the launch monitor software, which may be an additional expense for some users.
Also, even if it is portable, it is not the best portable launch monitor if your main concern is having a compact and highly portable device. It is heavier and bulkier than the majority of other portable units. Still, its performance and accuracy are unmatched!
GCQuad Alternatives
While the GCQuad is considered a high-quality launch monitor, there are other options available in the market that provide comparable features, and some are even more cost-effective. Below are some alternative options to the GCQuad that may be worth considering.
GCQuad vs GCHawk
Both the Foresight Sports GCHawk and GCQuad launch monitors are the company’s flagship offerings with premium performance and price points. The two have the same quadrascopic photometric configuration combined with infrared tracking to maximize tracking accuracy and provide extremely accurate readings of your shot details.
The GCHawk’s overhead placement makes it less prone to damage from errant shots versus the GCQuad’s floor positioning. This is especially important with younger players. Additionally, the GCHawk can accommodate both left and right-handed golfers without needing repositioning, unlike the GCQuad.
However, the GCQuad is more affordable than the pricier GCHawk. For budget-focused buyers, the GCQuad may be preferred. The GCQuad is also portable for outdoor and range use, while the GCHawk is fixed indoors.
Overall, we recommend the GCHawk over the GCQuad if budget allows, for its placement flexibility and accommodation of left/right-handed swing planes. However, portability limitations are an important consideration to bear in mind while choosing between these two impressive units.
GCQuad vs Trackman
While both systems offer similar features, there are differences that can inform your decision between the two.
Technology-wise, Trackman uses patented dual radar technology to measure data, while GCQuad uses cameras and quadrascopic optics to gather data. This means that Trackman may have a slight edge in accuracy, especially when measuring spin rates. However, GCQuad’s cameras can capture thousands of images for a more complete picture of club and ball performance.
In terms of data measurements, both systems offer similar measurements such as ball speed, club head speed, and launch angle, but Trackman offers more detailed information on club path and face angle. GCQuad, on the other hand, can measure impact location and loft at impact, making it a preferred choice for club fitters.
Portability is also a factor to consider, and both devices are battery-operated and have the option for wireless connectivity. However, while the Trackman has a battery life of 4 hours, the GCQuad can last up to 6-8 hours on a single charge. When it comes to weight, Trackman’s 6.2 lbs / 2.8 kg is slightly lighter than the GCQuad’s 7.5 lbs / 3.8kg, making the Trackman a tiny tad more portable.
Finally, price is likely a significant factor in your decision. With a starting price of around $19,000, Trackman typically costs more than the GCQuad (and its 14,000 starting price) and may require additional fees for simulation software and extra courses. Here, the GCQuad offers more value.
Ultimately, the choice between Trackman and GCQuad will depend on your individual preferences and needs. Club fitters may prefer GCQuad’s measurement capabilities. If you prefer the utmost accuracy and are willing to pay a premium, you may choose Trackman.
GCQuad Vs GC3
While both devices offer a range of features, there are some notable differences to consider.
The GCQuad boasts a larger hitting area than the Foresight Sports GC3, making it easier to get accurate feedback on your shots. Additionally, the device offers a wider range of features, including face angle, impact location, and closure rate analysis. These tools provide more advanced golfers with a more complete picture of their club performance and help them identify areas for improvement.
On the other hand, the GC3 is missing some of these features, which could be a deal-breaker for those looking for a complete launch monitor. Specifically, the device does not include face angle, impact location, or closure rate measurements. However, the GC3 does still offer a range of useful accurate data and is targeted towards professionals who need a detailed analysis of their game. It is almost half the price of the GCQuad, which many will find an acceptable tradeoff (Less features for less money).
Interestingly, the Bushnell Launch Pro is actually the same device as the GC3 – it simply has a different brand name and doesn’t come with any software included. So for golfers looking for a more affordable option, the Bushnell Launch Pro could be a great choice with tour-level accuracy.
Overall, while both the GCQuad and GC3 have their pros and cons, the GCQuad offers a wider range of features and a better hitting area for those willing to pay the extra cost.
GCQUAD Vs FlightScope X3
One of the key similarities between the GCQuad and the FlightScope X3 is that they combine more than one technology to produce their measurements and maximize accuracy. This means that both devices are highly accurate.
While the GCQuad combines photometric detection with Infrared sensors, the X3 uses Flightscope’s Fusion Tracking Technology, combining the Doppler radar system with the integrated high-speed camera of the device.
Additionally, both launch monitors offer a wide range of useful metrics, including club head speed, ball speed, horizontal and vertical launch angles, and spin rates. However, the X3 provides a higher number of data points related to all aspects of your game (Over 50 metrics). This makes it more suitable for Pro golfers or advanced players who can actually benefit from the additional data provided (and it may be confusing for beginners).
Other notable differences between the two devices. The GCQuad offers a higher frame rate while recording videos of the club and ball at impact, meaning that it can capture thousands of images during the swing. This allows for an incredibly detailed picture of club and ball performance. In fact, the GCQuad’s four cameras can operate at 6,000 FPS each to catch the smallest details of your swings.
Also, the GCQuad is very accurate indoors and out, but the X3, being a radar unit, excels outdoors but offers slightly less accurate data while being used indoors.
If you are a professional looking for the biggest number of metrics, the X3 is the option to go for; but if you want extreme accuracy with the ability to replay super slow-motion videos of your swings, the GCQuad is a better option.
GCQUAD Vs Uneekor EYE XO 2
Both units use photometric technology combined with Infrared sensors to provide accurate readings of your shots’ parameters. While the GCQuad uses four cameras, the EYE XO2 only has three cameras. We can confidently say that the GCQuad is a bit more accurate than Uneekor’s EYE XO2.
In terms of pricing, the GCQuad is around $2,000 more expensive and can be even more expensive if you choose to include the software add-ons. However, you get plenty of metrics and tour-level accuracy.
Comparing the two units in terms of versatility, the GCQuad is superior to the EYE XO2, as it can be used both indoors and outdoors thanks to its built-in Lithium ION rechargeable battery. The EYE XO2, on the other hand, and despite being an excellent unit, is limited to indoor use. It is an overhead launch monitor that attaches to the ceiling and can be used with an indoor golf simulator.
Uneekor’s EYE XO2 also provides better software integration, as it supports most of the simulation software available today, while the GCQuad’s official support list is limited to four options.
If you want a launch monitor to use indoors and out with tour-level accuracy, the choice is obvious- the GCQuad, but if you want a slightly cheaper unit that you can install permanently indoors and get seamless hand switching and greater software support, then the EYE XO2 is your best bet.
Where to Buy the Foresight Sports GCQuad?
You can get the GCQuad from a few trusted major online retailers. These include Rain Or Shine Golf, Shop Indoor Golf, Carl’s Place, and Top Shelf Golf. These retailers offer excellent service and advice throughout the entire process between ordering and receiving your item. They also have great customer service to help you out with any issues you might face with your purchase.
We do know that the GCQuad is a very expensive launch monitor, but the good news is that all those retailers offer financing options to help you pay for your new launch monitor over an extended period of time, with very low-interest rates (starting at 0%).
- Rain Or Shine’s financing options are available over here.
- Check out the financing plans from Shop Indoor Golf.
- Top Shelf Golf’s Financing options.
Final Verdict
The Foresight Sports GCQuad Launch Monitor is a highly accurate and feature-packed device that provides golfers with a complete picture of their club and ball data. Its photometric and Infrared technology captures thousands of images per second, delivering real-time data on key performance indicators.
One of the key benefits of the GCQuad is its portability, making it an excellent option for golfers who want to analyze their swing performance on both the range and course. The device also comes with simulation software that allows golfers to play on virtual courses. It is by far the best and most accurate portable photometric launch monitor to date!
The GCQuad is also an ideal tool for professional club fitters and instructors, providing them with detailed analysis of the club and ball parameters. Its price point also means that it is out of budget for many golfers.
Overall, the Foresight Sports GCQuad Launch Monitor is a high-end launch monitor with a robust set of features and benefits that can help any golfer improve their game.
Thanks for reading!
