The $6,500 ProTee VX launch monitor is one of those devices that aims to offer a high-quality golf simulation experience at a reasonable cost. It’s developed by ProTee United, a name that’s been around the golf simulator scene for quite a while. They’re known for providing accessible solutions for golfers who want to bring the game home without dropping a ridiculous amount of money.
The ProTee VX is a photometric launch monitor, which means it uses high-speed cameras to capture data from your swing and ball flight. Unlike radar-based systems that require more space to track the entire ball flight, the ProTee VX is a better fit for indoor setups where space is limited. That’s a pretty big deal for anyone looking to build a golf simulator in their basement or garage.
Setting up the ProTee VX isn’t overly complicated, but it does require some patience and attention to detail. You’ve got to make sure the cameras are properly aligned, and your hitting mat needs to be positioned correctly for accurate readings. Once you have everything in place, though, the ProTee VX does a pretty good job of providing consistent data without having to tinker with the setup every single time you use it.
What really stands out about the ProTee VX is its compatibility with various golf simulation software. It works with E6 Connect, TGC 2019, and a bunch of other popular titles. That’s a huge plus because you can pick the software that suits your preferences and budget. Not everyone wants to shell out extra for high-end software, and having options gives you more flexibility in how you use the simulator.
In terms of data, the ProTee VX provides a solid range of metrics. It captures things like ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, club path, and club face angle. It’s not going to match the precision of something like a Foresight GCQuad, but that’s kind of expected at this price point. What you do get, however, is more than enough information to help you improve your game and identify where your swing needs work.
One thing that can be a little frustrating is the occasional hiccup in accuracy. Sometimes, the system will misread certain shots, especially if your lighting setup isn’t quite right. The ProTee VX is definitely more sensitive to lighting conditions than some of the higher-end models out there. Making sure you’ve got good, even lighting is crucial to getting reliable data from the device.
Another aspect worth mentioning is the way the ProTee VX handles club data. It requires reflective stickers to accurately capture club path and face angle. It’s not a huge hassle, but having to use stickers every time you want detailed club data can feel like an extra step you’d rather not deal with. However, if you’re willing to put in a little extra effort, the data you get can be quite helpful.
The software experience is another area where the ProTee VX does well. Whether you’re using E6 Connect or TGC 2019, the graphics are solid, and the gameplay feels pretty realistic. The user interface is straightforward, which is great for anyone who just wants to start hitting shots without jumping through a bunch of menus. Plus, the software compatibility means you’re not locked into one ecosystem, giving you the freedom to experiment and find the best fit for your setup.
Now, let’s talk about portability. The ProTee VX is definitely more of a fixed setup kind of system. Once you get everything aligned and positioned properly, you’re probably not going to want to mess with it too much. It’s not like a portable launch monitor you can just toss in your bag and bring to the range. But if you’re looking for something to live permanently in your indoor simulator space, that’s hardly an issue.
When it comes to overall value, the ProTee VX offers a lot for what you’re paying. It’s not perfect, but it does a commendable job of giving you accurate data and an immersive simulation experience without breaking the bank. Sure, there are more accurate launch monitors out there, but you’ll be paying significantly more for them. For most golfers looking to fine-tune their game from home, the ProTee VX is definitely worth considering.
It’s best suited for indoor use, especially if you have limited space. And while it might not be the most accurate launch monitor on the market, it certainly holds its own in the price range it sits in. If you’re a casual golfer or someone who just wants a reliable way to keep their swing in shape during the off-season, the ProTee VX is a solid option.