In the past, owning a golf launch monitor was simply out of reach for the average golfer. The technology was very sophisticated and, as a result, the prices were too high for most. Fortunately times have changed. Today’s launch monitors are available at a wide range of price points, and their accuracy only continues to improve. However, as more golfers join the growing ranks of launch monitor owners, some myths have emerged. If you’re considering buying one this year, here are four common launch monitor myths to bust.
Myth 1: All release monitors are equally accurate
You know how much we like to test the accuracy of products. Accuracy should be your No. 1 consideration. 1 when you buy a release monitor. There’s really no point in owning one if it doesn’t provide accurate, actionable data to improve your game.
When we tested launch monitors in 2024, their accuracy ranged from less than a yard to nearly 20 yards. You will also find that accuracy varies from indoor to outdoor.
To test accuracy, we compared launch monitors with Forecast GC4 AND Trackmanknown as the most accurate launch monitors in the game with very little margin of error.
Indoors
While many of these launch monitors in this price range can hold their own when it comes to maintaining distance and ball speed, spin rates are where they often fall down. More than half of the units tested showed average percentage differences greater than 15 compared to GC4. Some, like Golfzone wave AND SC4were down by more than 30 percent. In contrast, Bushnell Launch Pro, Garmin Approach R50 AND Rhapsodo MLM2Pro gave some of the most accurate torque measurements.
out
The ball speed and carry distance numbers were relatively accurate when tested outdoors. We saw a 40 percent difference in accuracy from TrackMan during testing seagull. of Seagull+ there was also an 11 percent difference in accuracy for carry distance.
Transfer that to real data and, for example, it will look like you hit your 7-iron 166.5 yards instead of 150 yards. This is a big difference. of Garmin R50 AND Bushnell Launch Pro were two of the most accurate outdoor launch monitors we tested.
Myth 2: Expensive launch monitors are always better
Here’s a myth that’s fun to bust for gamers on a budget. If you think you’re going to have to shell out over $5,000 for a golf launch monitor, think again. Expensive boot monitors are NOT always better.
In our 2024 testing, we found Bushnell Launch Pro to be one of the best general release monitors and certainly the best for outdoor use. It is priced at $1,749.98.
If this is still a bit high, Rhapsodo MLM2PRO it’s under $1,000 and has video and simulation capabilities. Our best value launch monitor is SwingLogic SLX Hybrid Pro for $299.
To be fair, you won’t get the same accuracy (especially at rev rates) with SwingLogic SLX Hybrid Pro as you will with $5000 Garmin Approach R50 but it gives you a starting point to gain knowledge and awareness of your game.
| Start Monitor | PRICE | Changing the transport distance indoors. | Difference of transport distance in nature. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Approach R50 | 4999 dollars | 2.5% | 2.5% |
| Bushnell Launch Pro | 1749 dollars | <1% | 3% |
| Rhapsodo MLM2PRO | 699 dollars | <2% | 2.5% |
| SwingLogic SLX Hybrid Pro | 299 dollars | 6.5% | 4% |
Myth 3: Monitor launch data is all you need to improve your game.
Launch monitor data can give you a lot of insight into your game. You can then take this insight and focus on your strengths and weaknesses, but the data is usually insufficient to improve your game independently.
Some golfers who want to dive into swing diagnostics and advanced data may be in luck, but this is not a good use of time for the average golfer.
Use a launch monitor to help you get accurate information about your game so you don’t, for example, drop short and leave your approach in a water hazard. Use the data to see if you’re rolling your wedges enough or rolling your driver too much.
However, getting this information and thinking that you will be able to give up golf lessons and formal instruction forever is a myth. Launch monitors are not a substitute for golf instruction. They are tools to help you improve your game like any other golf technology on the market.
Myth 4: Launch monitors are only for professionals
When you watch professional golfers on the driving range, it’s common to see them using a launch monitor. Some models, like TrackManeven include practical challenges and routines that professionals rely on.
But they’re pro-so it’s different, right?
When launch monitors cost $20,000 or more, that argument might make sense.
Now that you can get something like Rhapsodo MLM2PROlaunch monitors are no longer just for the best players in the game (with the biggest budgets). If you play enough golf, spend time on the range, and want a reliable way to keep tabs on your game during the off-season, consider investing in a launch monitor. They are no longer just for professionals.
Final thoughts
With these four launch monitor myths debunked, it’s time to find the perfect option for your golf game. Take a look at ours Launch Monitor Testing 2024, where we analyzed things like accuracy, value and features. We also compared internal and external data so you can find the right tool to work for you.
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