The Verdict

The Swing Caddie SC300 is an excellent device for amateur golfers to gain deeper insight into your swing, ball striking, launch, spin and distance. Faster swinging golfers will notice some inaccurate readings on longer shots, which is a challenge for most personal golf launch monitors.

Overall this device provides detailed insight into your swing for 40 times less than premium launch monitors on the market. For this reason, we have selected the Swing Caddie SC300 as the best overall personal golf launch monitor of 2021.

2.Best Launch Monitor For Swing Speed - PRGR

The best personal launch monitor for swing speed in 2021 is the PRGR. It is one of the few personal launch monitors that can measure faster swings accurately. And, it is one of the most affordable launch monitors on the market.

Key Features
●Measures swing speed as accurately as an enterprise launch monitor.
●Most affordable launch monitor on our list.
●30-day money-back guarantee.

Data Points

The PRGR measures fewer data points than the SC300. However, the data it does analyze is accurate. It struggled to detect shot data for anything under 30 yards. Therefore, if you want a device to help you with your short game, the PRGR is not for you.

For optimal results, set up the launch monitor between 3-5 yards behind the strike zone. Once set up, these are a few data points that the device will analyze.

• Clubhead Speed
• Ball Speed
• Smash Factor
• Carry Distance
• Total Distance

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Affordable
• It can measure swing speeds up to 150 mph
• Functions indoors and outside
• It provides accurate swing speed, ball speed and distance measurements.

Cons

• Unable to provide data on shots under 30 yards.
• Measures a limited amount of data points.

The Verdict

The PRGR is a launch monitor best suited to players looking to tweak their swings. The accuracy of the PRGR's data enables players to adapt their swing to give them the best overall results.

Finally, the device does lose points when it comes to short game data, as it struggles to detect shots under 30 yards.

3.Best Short Game Launch Monitor - Flightscope Mevo

Those of you who need to work on your distance control for chip and pitch shots need not look further than the Flightscope Mevo. The Mevo is the personal launch monitor version of the Mevo Plus, a device endorsed by Bryson DeChambeau.

Key Features

• Employs 3-D Doppler radar technology to measure eight data points
• Suitable for use indoors and outdoors
• Pairs with the FS Mevo Golf App via Bluetooth connection
• Customize your screen to receive data or video playback of your swing

Data Points

The Mevo measures half the data points of the Mevo Plus. However, it is four times more affordable.

During a test conducted by Golf Youtuber MrShortGame Golf, he found that the Mevo struggled to detect clubhead speed of faster swinging players off the tee. On a few occasions, it was unable to measure carry distance.

• Clubhead Speed
• Vertical launch angle
• Spin rate
• Apex height
• Smash Factor
• Ball Speed
• Flight time
• Carry Distance

Pros and Cons

Pros

• A compact and portable device
• Voice output of carry distance
• Measures a variety of swing and ball data
• Best launch monitor for pitch and chip shots
• Record and analyze your swing with the FS Mevo Golf App
  

Cons

• It does not display the total distance
• Struggles to analyze drives and long shots of faster swinging golfers

The Verdict

The Mevo is at its best on shots around the green. It seems to perform better at analyzing strikes with slower swing speeds.

While faster swinging players may become frustrated by its inability to detect data on longer shots, it is worth considering this option to enhance your short game.

4. Most Convenient Launch Monitor - Ernest Sports B1

To quote River Pines Golf Club Assistant Pro Sam Defreece, "the ESB1 is easy to set up and use and provides instant feedback." This launch monitor comes equipped with dual Doppler radar technology, enabling the device to measure multiple points simultaneously.

Besides its ability to accurately measure club and ball data, this device is the most convenient for practicing. The ESB1 links up to the ESB1 app and allows you to drive your launch monitor via voice command.

Key Features

• Pairs with the ESB1 app for a more user-friendly experience
• Voice control and Shot Tracing functionality
• Audio feedback provides distance readings
  

Data Points

The ESB1 measures six data points, which is less than some of the launch monitors that we have seen so far. In a test conducted by MrShortGame Golf, he found that the ESB1 delivered club speed, smash factor, ball speed and spin data on a par with the Trackman 4.

• Clubhead Speed
• Launch angle
• Spin rate
• Smash Factor
• Ball Speed
• Total Distance

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Use voice control to drive your launch monitor
• The shot tracing feature on the app helps you analyze the flight and distance of your shot

Cons

• Limited data points displayed on the device
• It does not provide data on carry distance
• The app is only available on iOS
  

The Verdict

The ESB1 is the most convenient launch monitor on our list. The voice control feature makes it easier than ever to set up the device for different clubs, lofts and modes. Finally, instead of checking the launch monitor or app for your distance, it will read it out to you.

The downside of the ESB1 is that if you are a part of the 72% of the global population that owns an Android device, you will be unable to use the Ernest Sports app.

5. Most Versatile Launch Monitor - Garmin Approach G80

The Garmin Approach G80 launch monitor has been praised for its accuracy and user ability by Youtuber and PGA Golf Professional Rick Shiels.

Besides the launch monitor features, it also offers you GPS distance readings on over 40,000 courses worldwide. And, it further features a virtual scorecard to help keep all your historical scores in one place.

Key Features

• Accurately measures ball speed and distance on par with the GCQuad.
• Measures swing tempo
• Features a virtual scorecard and rangefinder capabilities
• Connects to the Garmin GPS App to provide distance readings on over 40,000 courses            worldwide

Data Points

While testing the performance of the G80 vs GCQuad, Shiels noted that the accuracy of the Garmin device was on par with the premium Foresight Sport's launch monitor.

With a 7-iron in his hand, the G80 displayed a ball speed of 117 mph. The same speed that the GCQuad registered. However, the devices showed a minor 1-yard difference in terms of carry.

Finally, when it comes to the data analyzed by the G80, the device does not provide spin nor total distances.

• Swing Tempo
• Clubhead Speed
• Smash Factor
• Ball Speed
• Estimated Carry Distance
• Estimated Total Distance

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Rangefinder and launch monitor features in one device
• Includes a virtual scorecard feature
• One of the few personal launch monitors to measure swing tempo
• Test your distance control skills against your friends with the virtual rounds feature
• Swing tempo training enables you to tweak your swing for optimal distance and spin

Cons

• It does not provide spin measurements
• It only estimates carry and total distance which can result in inaccurate data on carries exceeding 250 yards.

The Verdict

 The Garmin Approach G80 is the ideal caddie in your pocket. As it helps the average golfer to improve all elements of their game. On the course, the device's GPS rangefinder capabilities provide distance readings to the green and hazards, helping you stay in play and on target.

While it does not measure spin, it does analyze your swing tempo and offers a swing tempo training feature. This helps you to understand what works best for your game.

Overall this device offers incredible value for money, as it is practically two products in one. It saves you having to acquire a launch monitor and a rangefinder.

6. Best Launch Monitor For Swing Analysis - Rapsodo MLM

The Rapsodo MLM launch monitor only hit the market two years back. However, the team at Rapsodo are no rookies. Because they built the launch monitor known as SkyTrak.

If you look at the parts inside the SkyTrak device, you will see that they are Rapsodo. Rapsodo licensed the product to Sky Golf in 2015. They wrote the software, but Rapsodo maintains ownership of the Intellectual Property (I.p).

Apart from Rapsodo's fascinating journey, the company knows how to innovate and solve problems. The MLM device combines simple radar technology with the camera on your phone to deliver accurate data in line with premium launch monitor products.

Key Features

• Video playback and shot tracer feature
• GPS shot map provides a map of your shot dispersion
• Elementary radar on the device and camera from your phone combine to measure swing and ball data
• The club gapping feature helps you to understand your distances for each club

Data Points

The team at MyGolfSpy tested the Rapsodo MLM against the Trackman to compare the accuracy.

Interestingly, the MLM, which is forty times more affordable than the Trackman 4, produced carry and ball speed data that was on a par. Ball speed was 1.1 mph faster on the Rapsodo device, which is minimal.

• Clubhead Speed
• Launch Angle
• Smash Factor
• Launch Direction
• Ball Speed
• Total Distance

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Video playback and shot tracer function make it easier to detect issues with your swing, ball flight and shot direction.
• GPS Shot Map helps you understand your level of accuracy by displaying shot dispersion.
• The club gapping feature shows your average distance for each club, helping you improve your distance control
• Compete virtually with other golfers by undertaking a variety of challenges
• Stores historical shot data to review progress

Cons

• The Rapsodo MLM app on functions on iOS devices
• The device requires a smartphone to function

The Verdict

The video capture feature combined with the shot tracking function provides the average golfer with all the tools you need to analyze your swing and shot results.

The downsides of the Rapsodo MLM launch monitor include the fact that it requires a smartphone to function, and it does not measure spin. However, for a device that is forty times less than the likes of a Trackman 4, it provides accurate feedback on the data it does measure.

7. Best Indoor Launch Monitor - SkyTrak

SkyTrak devices are on the premium end of the scale when it comes to personal launch monitors. The company enjoyed significant success in 2020, as amateur golfers rushed to acquire equipment enabling us to practice while cooped up in our homes.

The brand has become so popular that there is now an average delivery time of four to five months for purchases through their website.

Key Features

• Pairs with golf simulation software to enable you to play various courses and undertake game improvement challenges
• Three different plans available to you depending on your budget and needs
• Uses photometric technology to calculate flight path and distance
• When purchasing a SkyTrak launch monitor, you will need to select one of the three plans that partner with the device. These plans are Basic, Game Improvement and Play and Improve.

Software Plans

Basic Driving Range Plan

The Basic Plan includes a SkyTrak launch monitor and the Basic Driving Range software. This option entitles you to simple shot data that is sufficient to help you understand your ball striking, launch, shot shape, spin and carry.

Game Improvement Plan

SkyTrak's mid-range offer is the Game Improvement option. The plan includes everything offered in the basic package. And, it gives you access to a host of challenges, enabling you to compete against your friends, family and other golfers around the world.

Challenge yourself with the closest to the pin contest, or channel your inner Kyle Berkshire and see how far you can grip it and rip it. The Game Improvement plan requires an annual subscription to continue using the license. Which sets you back US$135 per year.

Play and Improve Plan

The Tee Off option is the premium package from SkyTrak. It includes a launch monitor and an annual subscription to the World Golf Tour Play and Improve Plan, along with a protective metal case.

Not only does the Tee Off package gives you access to multiple skills challenges to improve your distance control and accuracy. But, it also enables you to play eleven of the finest courses on earth from your home.

Data Points

Since SkyTrak is a photometric launch monitor, it tends to deliver superior distance and direction data compared to speed. This is evident in the results displayed by the device.

For the most part, distance and direction readings are on point. However, faster swingers may find accelerated ball speeds and carry on longer shots.

Below is a list of the data points that the SkyTrak launch monitor measures.

• Ball Speed
• Backspin RPM
• Launch Angle
• Side Angle
• Side Spin
• Carry Distance
• Total Distance

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent game improvement features to challenge your ability
• Compete against your friends by undertaking various skills challenges
• Play world-class golf courses from your living room with their simulation package
• Interest-free loans if you pay the device off in 6 or 12 months

Cons

• The device provides generous ball speed and carry readings on longer strikes for faster swingers
• Expensive by personal launch monitor standards
• Game Improvement and Play and Improve Plan requires annual license renewal fees to continue operating

The Verdict

SkyTrak has revolutionized practice with this device. The setup encourages us to practice by making the process fun, competitive and exciting.

There are more affordable personal launch monitors that measure more data points and provide superior accuracy. But, the purpose of SkyTrak is to enable you to practice anywhere, anytime, and have fun doing it.

If you and your family are into golf, or your place is where all your mates hang out, the SkyTrak could be an excellent addition.

8. Best Personal Launch Monitor For Data Analysis - Mevo Plus

The Mevo Plus contains the same 3D Doppler radar technology found in the standard Mevo device. However, the Plus measures eight additional data points and comes with an iOS simulation software. This software enables you to play on 5 simulated golf courses, 17 driving ranges, as well as participate in a variety of online events.

While the Mevo Plus may run you six times more than the standard version, it is in the same price range as the SkyTrak launch monitor but delivers more accurate readings.

It is interesting to note that two of golf’s biggest hitters, DeChambeau and Bubba Watson, endorse the Mevo Plus.

Key Features

• Internal camera used to provide easy target alignment
• Pairs with the E6 Connect Simulation Software, and the FlightScope Golf and Skills apps
• Includes with an iOS simulation software package

Data Points

The Mevo Plus analyzes an additional eight data points over its more affordable relative. The level of data analyzed is impressive for a personal launch monitor device.

Ball Data

• Vertical Launch Angle
• Horizontal Launch Angle
• Ball Speed
• Smash Factor
• Spin Rate
• Spin Axis
• Spin Loft
• Shot Shape
• Apex Height
• Flight Time
• Lateral Landing Angle
• Carry Distance
• Roll Distance
• Total Distance

Club Data

• Clubhead Speed
• Angle of Attack

Pros and Cons

Pros

• The iOS simulation software enables you to play on five simulated courses and seventeen practice ranges
• Light and portable device weighing only 1 lb
• Provides data on shots from tee to green
• It is suitable for indoors and outdoors use

Cons

• Analyzes only two club data points
• Data on drives and longer irons shots were inaccurate compared to more expensive devices
• Expensive by Personal launch monitor standards

The Verdict

When it comes to value for money, the Mevo Plus is a sure contender. Granted, it is not cheap. But, when you consider how much data it analyzes for the price you are paying, there is little competition. It costs four times less than the GCQuad and is about nine times more affordable than a Trackman.

The Mevo Plus is well suited to competitive amateur golfers and professionals looking for a device that analyzes every shot from the tee box to the

Best Enterprise Launch Monitors

Now that we have looked at the best golf launch monitors for 2021, for the average golfer. It is time to identify which Enterprise launch monitors are our best picks for 2021.

Personal launch monitors are significantly more affordable than the Enterprise versions, predominantly used by coaches, tour pros, golf retail outlets and golf courses.

Unless you are an amateur golfer with deep pockets, or you are heavily investing in becoming a Pro, it is unlikely that you will ever own one of these devices. They are best suited to those who make a living from golf.

9. The Most Accurate Launch Monitor - Trackman 4

Over the years, the Trackman brand has become synonymous with the industry standard of launch monitors. It is the highest ticket item on our list of best golf launch monitors for 2021.No less than 700 tour professionals worldwide lean on their Trackman 4 in practice rounds and on the range.

Key Features

• The device contains dual radars to record ball flight and impact.
• Performance putting to trace the roll of your putt
• Includes performance-enhancing software to help you achieve consistency in your game.

Data Points

The Trackman 4 combines a short and long-range radar system to deliver data with millimetric accuracy. The short-range radar zeroes in on club, putting and impact data, while the long-range radar tracks the ball to provide accurate distance and spin readings.

The combination of the two radars enables the Trackman 4 to provide accurate information from the tee box to green. Below is a list of the data points that the acclaimed Trackman 4 analyzes.

Ball Data

• Ball speed
• Carry
• Launch angle
• Smash factor
• Spin rate

Club Data

• Club path
• Face angle
• Dynamic loft
• Attack angle
• Club Speed

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Analyzes your shot data with millimetric accuracy
• Captures the clubheads exact point of impact with the ball for more accurate direction and launch readings
• Generates specific tests to determine a player's average distance with each club in the bag
• Compare your swing to a Tour Player to see how you can adapt it to your game
• Use the shot optimizer feature to see how to maximize your performance with each club

Cons

• The Trackman 4 is one of the highest-priced launch monitors on the market
• For optimal performance indoors, you require a minimum of 25 feet of space from the launch monitor to the impact screen.

The Verdict

The Trackman 4 is no doubt the industry standard. That is why 700 professionals use the device to improve their games. It also explains why the launch monitor fetches eye-watering prices.

However, cost aside, this is everything a Pro, a golf coach or fitting expert could ever ask for in a launch monitor. You can confidently instruct your clients and help them to score low more consistently.

10. Best Launch Monitor Overall - Foresight Sports GCQuad

The GCQuad is a premium quadrascopic camera launch monitor that delivers data with millimetric accuracy. The device´s four cameras capture the strike zone from four different angles, enabling the GCQ to snap 200 images of the area at impact.

This launch monitor is also one of two products on this list used by the data-driven golfer Bryson DeChambeau. Furthermore, the research and development teams at equipment titans Titleist, Taylormade and Callaway trust the GCQ for testing purposes.

Jon Watters, VP of Foresight Sports, says the company created the GCQuad to help the average golfer hit more consistent shots rather than achieve more distance. That statement should be music to the ears of coaches and fitters whose job is to ensure players strike the ball consistently.

In terms of price, the GCQuad sits between the ES16 Tour and the Trackman 4. Even though it will run you half of the price of a Trackman, it is on a par in terms of accuracy.

Key Features

• Barometric Pressure Sensor to modify calculations according to the altitude
• Captures 200 images of the strike zone at impact
• Analyzes 13 data points

Data Points

The GCQuad can measure a wide variety of ball and club data, to deliver precise readings. However, to enjoy the benefits of club data readings, you will need to acquire the dot sensors for your clubface.

The launch monitor is equipped with a barometric pressure sensor which alters the algorithm to factor in the impact that altitude has on your shot. If you want clubhead measurements you should be prepared to pay $4,000 extra for the add-on, while the putting analysis feature will set you back an additional $2,500.

In any case, here is a list of all the data points that the GCQuad can analyze.

Ball Data

• Ball speed
• Ball launch angle
• Internal horizontal angle comparative to the target
• Total backspin rpm
• The spin tilt axis calculates the angle that your ball comes off the clubface.
• Carry distance

Club Data

• Club speed
• Impact Point
• Angle of attack
• Club path
• Delivered face angle
• Delivered lie angle captures
• Impact loft
• Closure rate

Pros and Cons

Pros

• The larger capture area eradicates the need to calibrate the device indoors
• Delivers data feedback in real-time
• Accurate club and ball data
• Monthly payment plans are available to US citizens using a US credit card
• The device weighs 7.5 pounds and can easily be transported between your studio and the range

Cons

• You need to purchase various add ons to receive the full list of data points
• The device does not include the simulation software
• If the launch monitor is not level with your target you will need to use a reflective alignment stick to

The Verdict

Despite the GCQuad costing half of what the Trackman 4 sells for, it provides equally accurate results. It is easy to see why the Foresight product is preferred by many tour Pros and golf equipment manufacturers.

The downside of the GCQuad is that you need to spend more to add on functionality to measure essential data points, such as club and putting analysis. If you are a golf coach, club fitter or retail outlet, it is worth considering this product for your launch monitor needs.

Other Notable Enterprise Launch Monitors

Best Hybrid Launch Monitor - Ernest Sports ES16 Tour

The ES16 Tour launch monitor kicks off our best enterprise golf launch monitors for 2021. Ernest Sports have designed a unique device that incorporates Doppler radar and photometric technology for amplified accuracy.

As previously mentioned, radar technology generally provides more accurate speed data. Photometric technology, on the other hand, delivers better distance and direction calculations.

Key Features

• Combines Doppler radar and photometric technology
• Compatible with Perfect Parallel, The Golf Club, and e6 golf simulators
• Pairs with the Ernest Sports application to analyze practice sessions, and display ball flight and distance averages per club

Data Points

Enterprise launch monitors analyze more data than their Personal counterparts, and as a result, they tend to deliver more detailed and accurate information. The data is then laid out for professionals and coaches to interpret.

Premium launch monitors thoroughly analyze a variety of ball and club data. This comprehensive analysis aids these devices in consistently delivering accurate information. We have outlined the data points that the ES16 Tour measures and calculates below.

Ball Data

• Launch Angle
• Launch Direction Angle
• Ball Speed
• Smash Factor
• Spin Rate
• Spin Axis
• Height
• Hang Time
• Landing Angle
• Carry Distance
• Roll Distance
• Total Distance

Club Data

• Clubhead Speed
• Angle Of Attack
• Spin Loft
• Face Angle
• Club Path
• Dynamic Loft

Pros and Cons

Pros

• The combination of Doppler Radar and Photometric technology deliver improved speed, spin and distance data.
• The ES Application displays real-time ball flight and shot data during your practice sessions.
• Affordable in comparison to premium enterprise launch monitors.
• Displays averages per club
• Waterproof and portable

Cons

• The ES Golf app only functions on Windows 10
• The LCD screen on the device displays limited data, meaning you need the app to see more data in real-time.

The Verdict

The ES16 is a semi-affordable launch monitor combining the best technology to measure spin and speed, as well as calculate distance and direction.

The downside of the ES16 Tour is that you can only use the app in Windows 10. Since one billion people now use the software, it is understandable why Ernest Sports took this approach. However, it does rule out anyone using macOS, iOS or Linux.

Overall, the ES16 Tour is an excellent option for golf retail stores, golf clubs, and amateur golfers pursuing a career as a pro. 

Best Overhead Launch Monitor - Trugolf TruFlight 2

The TruFlight 2 launch monitor is a unique setup, in that the device is suspended overhead, instead of on the ground. As a result, this product can only be used indoors, which is suited to golf retail outlets, coaches and club fitters.

The TruFlight 2 is a photometric launch monitor that is equipped with 3 cameras that capture 3200 frames per second in the strike zone. Besides the device’s performance capabilities, it also pairs with the E6 golf simulator, to enhance your indoor experience.

Key Features

• Overhead setup
• Captures 3200 frames per second
• Equipped with 3 cameras

Data Points

The overhead setup of the TruFlight 2 gives the launch monitor unobstructed views of the strike zone, to deliver accurate club and ball data. Overall the results provided by this launch monitor are accurate. However, as a photometric device, it performs best in delivering spin and direction data.

Ball Data

• Launch Angle
• Launch Direction
• Ball Speed
• Smash Factor
• Spin Rate
• Height
• Landing Angle
• Carry Distance
• Total Distance

Club Data

• Clubhead Speed
• Face Angle
• Club Path

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Analyzes club and ball data
• Keeps the floor clear of any objects which are ideal for retail spaces
• E6 software allows you to play 27 preloaded courses and test your skills in a variety of challenges
• The accuracy of data on short game shots is incomparable

Cons

• Can only be used indoors
• Expensive

The Verdict

The Trugolf TruFlight 2 launch monitor provides precise results on the same level as the Trackman 4. Since this device requires an overhead setup, it is best suited to golf retail outlets rather than the average player.

Finally, the TruFlight 2 is not a cheap option, however, it is half the price of a Trackman and performs as well as the industry-standard device.

Honourable Mentions of Best Golf Launch Monitors For 2021

Flightscope X3

Key Features

Fusion tracking combines radar and photometric technology for enhanced accuracy

Alter the environment to practice in various conditions

Measures a phenomenal 50 data points

Uneekor QED

Key Features

Overhead launch monitor setup

Uses camera-based technology

Analyzes a variety of club and ball data

Conclusion On The Best Golf Launch Monitors For 2021

As we can see from our review, the options are abundant. From $200 items to premium products over $25,000, there is something for everyone. Based on the data and consistency of the Swing Caddie SC300, it earns our award for the best Personal golf launch monitor for 2021.

When it comes to Enterprise launch monitors, it is the Foresight GCQuad that wins the race. The device’s accuracy is on par with the industry standard Trackman 4, yet it is half the price. What would your list of the best golf launch monitors for 2021 look like?

If you are in the market for a personal launch monitor you can find the SC300 on offer, here. And for those of you who make a living from golf, take a look at the GCQuad here.