Space Requirements

  • Room Dimensions will require you to have enough room to swing, plus clearance for your gear. Porters Golf recommends ~10′ × 10′ footprint and ~8.5′ ceiling height for basic setups.
  • Depth Matters, for radar-based launch monitors, you generally need more depth.
  • Ceiling Clearance, low ceilings will most likely restrict your swing or require a different type of monitor (e.g., overhead camera systems are more space-efficient).

Launch Monitor / Tracking Device

  • This is the core of your simulator — tracks ball flight, club data, etc.
  • Metrics, a good monitor will give you ball speed, launch angle, spin, carry distance, etc.
  • Accuracy & Consistency is very important for meaningful practice.

Type of Tracking

  • Radar-based (radar) will need more space behind ball, which is good for distance.
  • Camera-based / Photometric will often more accurate indoors and can work with less space.

Portability

  • Do you want to move the device around or leave it fixed? Portable units are more flexible but may wear out over time.

Software Compatibility

  • Ensure the monitor works with the simulator software you plan to use (e.g., GSPro, E6, The Golf Club).

Impact Screen / Net / Enclosure

  • You need something to stop the ball i.e. either a net, an impact screen, or a full enclosure.

Impact Screen

  • If you want a realistic, immersive sim experience, use a dedicated impact screen (able to show graphics + absorb hits)

Enclosure

  • This will help contain errant shots, protects walls, and improves safety.    

 

Projector / Display:

Brightness (Lumens)

  • Depends on room lighting. For bright rooms, aim for higher lumens.

Throw Ratio

  • Short-throw projectors are ideal for simulators so you can mount them without casting shadows and still fill the screen.

Resolution

  • Higher resolution (1080p, 4K) gives better visuals, especially for simulation software.

Mounting

  • Where will you mount the projector (ceiling, floor) will affect the kind of projector you choose.

Hitting Mat & Flooring

  • The quality of your hitting mat is important for feel and safety.
  • Flooring or turf around the mat helps replicate a realistic look and improves the overall simulator experience.

 

 

Computer / Software:

PC Requirements

  • Depending on the sim software, you may need a powerful PC (good graphics card, CPU) to run courses smoothly.

Simulator Software

  • Think about what software you want (practice, courses, games), its cost (some have subscription), and how many courses are included.

Licensing

  • Check if you need to pay for software licenses, yearly subscriptions, or premium add-ons.

Lighting & Ambience

  • Control ambient light so the projector image stays bright and clear.
  • Consider what lighting you need for practice versus for projection (you don’t want your club or body to cast big shadows).

Audio / Immersion

  • Sound system (speakers / soundbar) can make a big difference for immersion.
  • Consider wiring / power for all your components (PC, projector, monitor).

Budget Considerations

  • Simulator setups vary wildly in cost as a minimalist net + basic launch monitor is much cheaper than a full high-end sim bay.
  • You can build incrementally by starting with the monitor and net, and then you can upgrade the screen, mat, projector later.
  • Consider the total cost of the launch monitor, screen/net, projector, PC, software, and mat.

Durability & Maintenance

  • Impact screens and mats take a beating (balls hitting repeatedly), so pick quality.
  • Projector maintenance for lamp life. You should consider dust filters, etc.
  • Replacement parts (mats, turf) should be considered in long-term cost.

Safety

  • Make sure the enclosure or net can reliably stop golf balls.
  • Ensure mounting is secure for projectors and screen frames.
  • Allow room so you don’t hit walls or equipment when swinging.

Ease of Setup / Breakdown

  • If you’re not leaving the simulator up permanently, consider how easy it is to assemble/disassemble. Some people set up and tear down each time.
  • Cable management is also important (power, HDMI, data) to avoid trip hazards.

Support / Return Policy

  • Buying from reputable suppliers matters — for return policies, support, calibration help, etc.

Calibration

  • Some systems need calibration or periodic checking to maintain accuracy.