If you’ve ever wondered how a golf simulator works, this guide has got you covered.

Golf simulator technology has evolved from encompassing ball-tracking systems into sophisticated indoor training environments that rival professional coaching facilities. Whether you’re considering your first home golf simulator setup or a commercial project, understanding how these systems work is essential for making the most of your investment.

Today’s golf simulators combine premium hardware with cutting-edge software to deliver razor-sharp accuracy, realism, and immersive experiences. They are designed to make year-round practice more accessible than ever for golfers, where they can hone their skills and improve their game with confidence.

The Role of Golf Launch Monitors

At the heart of every golf simulator lies the launch monitor, which is the sophisticated piece of hardware responsible for capturing and analysing your swing data. Golf launch monitors use two primary tracking technologies:

1. Photometric camera systems
2. Radar technology

Photometric camera systems employ high-speed cameras operating at thousands of frames per second to capture ball and club movement. These systems use multiple camera angles and infrared technology to track the golf ball’s trajectory, spin characteristics, and club face angle at impact. 

Radar technology is the go-to for launch monitor accuracy. Systems like the TrackMan launch monitor use Doppler radar to track both ball and club throughout the entire swing sequence. This technology captures data such as club path, face angle, and impact dynamics with the utmost precision.

Many premium indoor golf simulator systems now combine both technologies, using radar for primary ball tracking whilst cameras provide visual verification and enhanced club analysis.

Advanced Data Analysis 

The magic happens in the milliseconds following the moment that the club hits the ball, when raw sensor data transforms into actionable feedback. Modern golf simulators process dozens of parameters simultaneously: 

• Ball speed
• Launch angle
• Spin rate
• Club head speed
• Attack angle
• Face angle
• Club path

This real-time analysis enables predictive ball flight modelling that accurately simulates where your shot would land on an actual course. 

Projectors and Screens

Creating a bespoke golf simulation setup requires sophisticated projection systems and display screens. Golf simulator installations use either short-throw or long-throw projectors, with 4K resolution becoming more frequently adopted.

Impact screens have evolved significantly, now offering enhanced durability whilst maintaining realistic ball response characteristics. The integration of the software brings virtual courses to life through detailed graphics and realistic physics engines. Players can experience a wealth of well-known golf courses from around the world, or focus on specific aspects of their game through targeted practice modes.

Integration With Training Aids

A complete indoor golf simulator encompasses numerous integrated components working in harmony. Beyond the launch monitor, screen and projector, high-quality golf training mats provide a realistic turf feel whilst protecting your clubs. Simulation enclosures and golf nets contain wayward shots and condense practice spaces but still offer enough protection.

Space requirements depend significantly on your chosen system. Ceiling heights of 2.6-2.8 metres accommodate most golfers comfortably, whilst room dimensions should allow for natural swing mechanics. 

Top Golf Simulation Technology Brands in 2025

The TrackMan launch monitor remains the benchmark for professional applications, used extensively on the PGA Tour and by professional golfers and coaches worldwide. Its radar-based technology provides unmatched accuracy for serious players seeking tour-level data quality.

That’s not to dispel the value of camera-based systems, which offer an alternative for recreational users and home golf simulators. These are slightly more cost-effective options and offer excellent accuracy for general practice.

The choice between indoor golf simulator configurations often comes down to whether you intend to train like a professional, or whether you’re after something to use as a leisure activity. The salient point of ‘you get what you pay for’ rings true, but regardless of your choice, you’ll be granting yourself optimal freedom to train whenever you please, regardless of driving range or course availability, weather, or commuting distance.

Making the Right Choice

Understanding golf simulator technology helps ensure you get the best value for your needs, budget, and playing intensity. Whether you’re after a professional-grade training setup or something more casual, modern golf simulators offer everything you need.

Golf Swing Systems specialises in helping you make these decisions with expert guidance on system selection, installation requirements, and budget-friendly options. 

For detailed information about installation requirements and investment considerations, explore our comprehensive guide on golf simulator costs. Otherwise, if you’re considering making the jump now, contact our team today to discover how the right system can transform your golfing experience.