Okay, so you’re trying to find the best overhead launch monitor, right? Don’t just buy the first one you see! I’ve checked out five of the most talked-about ceiling-mounted systems. Some rock, but others? Not worth the trouble. Here’s the lowdown.
1. Foresight Sports GCHawk Overhead Launch Monitor - Best Overall
The GCHawk is top-tier as far as overhead launch monitors go. It hangs from the ceiling and gives you super sharp club and ball tracking. Plus, the hitting area is huge, so lefties and righties can play without messing with the setup. I used this thing in a fancy indoor studio, and the numbers it put out were crazy accurate. The camera system grabs data so well, you’d think you were playing real golf indoors.
What’s cool is that it’s easy to use. Once it’s installed, you don’t have to move anything around. Great for shops or a high-end setup at home. It works great with FSX Play, FSX 2020, and E6 CONNECT, which makes the simulation feel real.
You’ll need ceilings at least 9 feet high, and you gotta get it installed by a pro. But if you want the best and are willing to pay $19,999, it’s worth it. The only bummer is the install isn’t something you can DIY, but the results are great.
2. Trackman iO Overhead Launch Monitor - Best For Accuracy
If you just want the most accurate readings, the Trackman iO is your best bet. I tested it at a golf place that only uses the best gear, and I saw why everyone loves this thing. It uses both infrared and radar to track your shots and give you crazy-accurate info.
I liked how fast the Trackman iO gave me feedback on my shots. It’s like getting instant coaching every time you swing. The system works super well with Trackman’s Virtual Golf 2 software, which has awesome graphics and breaks down your shots in detail.
Again, you need at least a 9-foot ceiling, and you need it installed by a pro. It’s $13,995, so cheaper than the GCHawk, but still pricey. It’s made for golfers who want the best data above all else. The only thing is that it only works with Trackman’s software, but if you’re cool with that, it performs amazingly.
3. TruGolf Apogee Overhead Launch Monitor - Best For Home Use
The TruGolf Apogee is probably the easiest overhead launch monitor to use. Unlike radar systems that need a lot of space behind you, the Apogee uses cameras, so it’s perfect for smaller rooms.
I used it in a garage, and its INSTANT IMPACT tech gave me accurate data without needing special balls or stickers on my clubs. It worked great with E6 Connect, and the subscription gives you access to tons of courses and practice tools. Plus, the impact replays are a cool way to see what you’re doing wrong in your swing.
You need a 9-foot ceiling, and it costs $9,000, which is pretty good considering how well it works. The only thing is that it needs an Ethernet cable and a Windows PC to run, but otherwise, it’s a good choice for your house.
4. ProTee VX Overhead Launch Monitor - Best For Small Spaces
The ProTee VX is the cheapest of the bunch, but it’s still pretty good. I tried it out in a small room, and I was surprised at how well it worked. It uses two fast cameras to track your shots and is pretty accurate, especially for $6,500.
The hitting area is a good size (25 x 21), so lefties and righties can play without having to move sensors around. It also has instant replay, so you can see your swing and get better. It works with TGC 2019, E6 CONNECT, GSPro, and ProTee Play, which is nice if you want to switch things up.
You need at least a 9-foot ceiling. It’s not the fanciest system, but it’s good if you want a solid simulator without spending a fortune.
5. Foresight Falcon Overhead Launch Monitor - Best For Commercial Use
The Foresight Falcon is tough and is made for stores and golf centers that get a lot of use. I got to try it in a golf place, and the four cameras gave me super accurate readings. The hitting zone is big enough for lefties and righties, so you don’t have to move stuff around or change the settings between players.
I liked that the Falcon works with FSX Play, FSX 2020, E6 CONNECT, and GSPro. The graphics are great, and the instant feedback makes it perfect for pros who need the most accurate and dependable system.
You need a 9-foot ceiling and a pro to install it. It’s $14,999, which is a lot, but if you want something that can handle heavy use, it’s the way to go. The downsides are the cost and needing a pro to install it, but it’s worth it in the long run because it works so well and lasts.
My Final Thoughts
What overhead launch monitor you pick depends on what you need. The Foresight Sports GCHawk is the best all-around choice if you want the best experience. If you just want accuracy, go with the Trackman iO. For your house, the TruGolf Apogee is great without costing too much. If you’re on a budget, the ProTee VX is good, and if you’re opening a golf place, go with the Foresight Falcon.