I’ve tested plenty of golf launch monitors to be honest, and while some promise tour-level accuracy, few actually deliver without a premium price tag. The SkyTrak+ changes that.
It builds on the success of the original SkyTrak, adding a dual Doppler radar system, improved camera tracking, and a faster onboard processor. The result? A portable, user-friendly launch monitor that provides precise ball and club data without needing stickers, marked balls, or complicated setups.
But does it hold up in real-world testing? And how does it compare to more expensive options like the Foresight GC3 or Bushnell Launch Pro? After spending time with the SkyTrak+ in a full simulator setup, I’ve got the answers.
Setup: A Portable Driving Range in Your Home
Setting up the SkyTrak+ is as simple as it gets. Unlike overhead-mounted systems that require installation, this compact unit can be placed anywhere — whether it’s your living room, garage, or backyard net setup.
Out of the box, you get the SkyTrak+ launch monitor, USB charging cable, user manual, and a basic practice range software package. Connecting to my iPad and PC took less than five minutes, thanks to the built-in 5GHz Wi-Fi that provides a stable, lag-free connection.
The best part? No club stickers or special golf balls required. Just place a ball in front of the unit, and you’re ready to go.
Unlike radar-based systems that need more space to track full ball flight, the SkyTrak+ works well in tight indoor spaces. Whether I was hitting irons or testing driver carry distances, it delivered consistent data without the need for constant recalibration.
Accuracy and Tracking: Dual Doppler Radar Meets Advanced Cameras
When it comes to data precision, the SkyTrak+ takes a big leap forward. It combines high-speed camera tracking with a dual Doppler radar system, making it one of the most accurate launch monitors in its price range.
The camera system captures ball data, including ball speed, launch angles, total spin, and carry distance, while the radar system measures clubhead data, including club path, face angle, and smash factor.
In testing, the SkyTrak+ held its own against more expensive systems like the GC3. Ball speed and spin numbers were within 2% of TrackMan readings, and carry distances were impressively consistent. The only small variance I noticed was in low-spin wedge shots, where the spin axis sometimes fluctuated slightly.
What’s really impressive is the instant shot feedback. There’s no delay between impact and shot display, making it feel like hitting on a real driving range. I also tested it in outdoor conditions, and it continued to perform flawlessly, picking up both high and low-speed shots with ease.
Software and Simulation: Play Pebble Beach from Home
The SkyTrak+ isn’t just a launch monitor — it’s a full golf simulator. With a Course Play subscription, you can play famous courses like Pebble Beach right from your home setup. Just add the subscription through the SkyTrak+ app, and you’re good to go.
The SkyTrak software package comes with multiple options:
- Essential Plan : Basic practice modes with shot replay and performance tracking
- Course Play Standard : Unlocks 30 courses, including Pebble Beach
- Course Play Premium : Expands to 195 courses
- WGT + E6 Subscription : Adds E6 Connect and World Golf Tour courses
I tested SkyTrak+ with FSX 2020 and E6 Connect, and the graphics were smooth and realistic. Ball flight physics felt accurate, and putting simulation was one of the best I’ve seen outside of Foresight’s ecosystem.
One of my favorite features is the SkyTrak Shot Optimizer and Shot Score. It analyzes your shots against a massive database of real player data, helping you pinpoint areas for improvement. It’s essentially like having a virtual golf coach built into the system.
How SkyTrak+ Compares to Other Launch Monitors
I’ve tested most of the major launch monitors in this price range, so here’s how SkyTrak+ stacks up:
Compared to the Bushnell Launch Pro, the SkyTrak+ is more affordable and doesn’t require a costly subscription. While Bushnell has an edge in outdoor use, SkyTrak+ is a better choice for indoor players who want simulator functionality.
The Foresight GC3 is a premium alternative with slightly better club data tracking, but it also costs twice as much. If you’re a casual golfer or simulator enthusiast, SkyTrak+ delivers nearly the same experience for a fraction of the price.
Against Garmin Approach R10, SkyTrak+ wins in ball data accuracy and software options. While the Garmin R10 is a solid budget choice, SkyTrak+ is simply more reliable indoors.
For golfers who want a full simulation experience without spending $10,000+, SkyTrak+ is hands-down one of the best options available.
Final Thoughts: Is the SkyTrak+ Worth It?
The SkyTrak+ is one of the most impressive portable launch monitors I’ve tested. It brings pro-level accuracy, instant feedback, and full simulator functionality into a compact, affordable package.
Setup is effortless, data tracking is incredibly precise, and the ability to play iconic courses like Pebble Beach makes it a true game-changer. If you’re looking for an indoor simulator that provides serious golf analytics while keeping the experience fun and engaging, the SkyTrak+ is one of the best investments you can make.