The Bushnell Launch Pro has become one of the most sought-after premium launch monitors since its release in late 2021. Built with cutting-edge technology and marketed as a budget-friendly entry point to high-end data tracking, it’s a favorite among golf enthusiasts. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s break it down so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your game.
The Bushnell Launch Pro was born from a collaboration between Bushnell and Foresight Sports. Interestingly, this partnership deepened when Vista Outdoors, Bushnell’s parent company, acquired Foresight Sports in late 2021. This launch monitor is essentially a rebranded version of the Foresight GC3, but with a twist—its pricing model.
The GC3 provides all features upfront for a single cost, while the Launch Pro offers a lower entry price but requires a subscription to unlock additional features. This strategy makes the device accessible to more golfers but comes with mixed reactions from users.
What Sets The Bushnell Launch Pro Apart?
The Launch Pro is compact yet sturdy, housing three high-speed cameras on the front to deliver precise readings. Its build quality is top-notch, but the lack of adjustable feet can be an issue. To work correctly, the unit must sit at the same height as your hitting surface, which means you might find yourself improvising with books or small boxes to achieve the right alignment. While not a deal-breaker, it’s a detail that feels like an oversight for a product of this caliber.
The setup process is straightforward. Once connected to the internet, you register the device via their website, perform a quick update, and you’re good to go. Position the unit about two feet from your hitting area, and it immediately starts delivering readings on its external display. The alignment stick feature is another thoughtful touch—it auto-detects and helps you align the unit with minimal fuss.
First Look: Compact Yet Durable
When you unbox the Bushnell Launch Pro, the first thing you notice is its sturdy yet surprisingly compact design. Despite being smaller than expected, the build quality is undeniable. The three high-speed cameras on the front are positioned for optimal ball and club tracking. Turning it around, you’ll find essential ports, including USB-C, Ethernet, and the power connector.
One slight downside is the lack of adjustable feet. This means the Launch Pro must sit at the same height as your hitting surface to deliver accurate readings. If your setup isn’t perfectly level, you’ll need to get creative by propping it up with a book or small box. While it’s not a dealbreaker, it feels like a missed opportunity for a device at this price point.
The overall design exudes a premium feel, and it’s clear that durability was a top priority. Whether you’re using it at home or taking it on the road, it’s built to withstand regular use.
Setup: Easy, but Not Instant
Setting up the Bushnell Launch Pro is straightforward, though it does require a few steps. First, connect the device to the internet to register it via their website. This process is done off the device, and once registered, you’ll need to download a quick update that takes about five to ten minutes. After that, you’re ready to go.
Positioning is critical. The Launch Pro needs to sit approximately two feet from your hitting area, aligned perfectly with the ball. Thankfully, the included alignment stick makes this process simpler. The unit auto-detects the stick, guiding you to fine-tune the alignment. While it might take a few minutes to get everything dialed in, the intuitive design ensures it’s not a frustrating experience.
One of the standout features of the Launch Pro is its external display. Unlike some devices that require a separate monitor or projector, this unit allows you to see essential metrics directly on the device. This makes it easy to set up and use, even if you’re hitting into a net without a full simulator environment.
Once you’re aligned and registered, you can start hitting balls immediately. The feedback is instantaneous, with metrics like ball speed, spin rate, and carry distance displayed in real time. For golfers who want quick data without unnecessary delays, this is a significant advantage.
Diving into the Technology
Understanding the technology behind launch monitors is key to choosing the right one. The Launch Pro is a camera-based, or photometric, launch monitor. It uses high-speed cameras to capture images of the ball and club at impact, then calculates metrics like ball speed, spin, and launch angle using advanced algorithms. This method excels indoors because it requires minimal space, making it perfect for home setups or small indoor golf simulators. However, its outdoor performance can sometimes lag behind radar-based units like Trackman, which directly track the ball’s full flight.
Radar-based launch monitors rely on Doppler radar to measure ball and club data, tracking the entire ball flight in real-time. These devices are incredibly accurate outdoors but require significant space to operate effectively. The Launch Pro bridges the gap by offering excellent accuracy indoors while remaining versatile enough for outdoor use.
The Subscription Dilemma
The subscription model is one of the most debated aspects of the Launch Pro. Out of the box, the device provides basic metrics like ball speed and carry distance. However, unlocking advanced club metrics like angle of attack and club path requires at least the basic subscription. This includes access to FSX Pro software, a single driving range, and data-saving features.
For those who want a more immersive experience, the Gold subscription offers 10 golf courses, multiple driving ranges, skill challenges, and FSX Play simulation software. While the one-year basic subscription and a 30-day Gold trial are included with the device, the ongoing costs can add up, which might be a deal-breaker for budget-conscious users.
FSX Pro and FSX Play: A Closer Look
FSX Pro is the backbone of the basic subscription. It provides a simple yet effective driving range interface where you can analyze your shots, save session data, and customize the metrics displayed. While the interface isn’t the most intuitive, the wealth of data it offers makes it an invaluable practice tool.
For those looking to step up their game, FSX Play opens the door to simulated course play, offering a library of 10 included courses with the option to purchase more. The visuals are impressive, and the ability to customize settings adds to the overall experience, though some users may feel the subscription price doesn’t justify the limited number of included courses.
Is It Accurate?
Accuracy is the most critical feature of any launch monitor, and the Bushnell Launch Pro delivers. Built on the same technology as the Foresight GCQuad, it’s renowned for its precision. When compared to top-tier competitors like Trackman, the differences are negligible. For instance, a 300-yard drive might read 295 on a Trackman and 300 or 302 on the Launch Pro. For the vast majority of golfers, this level of accuracy is more than sufficient, whether for practice or simulation play.
Compatibility with Third-Party Software
Officially, the Launch Pro is only compatible with FSX software, and accessing simulation features requires a Gold subscription. However, some users have discovered unofficial workarounds to use third-party software like GS Pro or The Golf Club 2019. While these solutions can expand functionality, they aren’t officially supported, and future updates could render them obsolete. This is something to consider if third-party compatibility is a priority for you.
The Bottom Line
The Bushnell Launch Pro is an exceptional choice for golfers looking for a premium launch monitor at a more accessible price. Its compact design, accuracy, and ability to provide real-time feedback make it ideal for indoor use. While the subscription model might not appeal to everyone, it’s a reasonable trade-off for the device’s lower upfront cost. The lack of adjustable feet and reliance on club stickers are minor drawbacks, but they don’t overshadow the overall value this device offers.
For $1,999, the Launch Pro is arguably the best option for indoor use, offering a perfect blend of features, accuracy, and versatility. If you’re ready to invest in a launch monitor that can elevate your game, this might just be the one for you.
