The SkyTrak Plus has rapidly become a go-to option for home golfers seeking an advanced, feature-rich simulator without the sky-high price of competitors like the Foresight GC3 or Bushnell Launch Pro.
Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your swing or just enjoy a round of virtual golf, this device offers professional-level data for a fraction of the cost.
In this review, we’ll explore how the SkyTrak+ stacks up in terms of setup, data accuracy, game improvement features, and its value for money.
SkyTrak Plus Overview
The SkyTrak+ is an advanced camera-based launch monitor designed for home use. It delivers pinpoint accuracy when measuring critical metrics like ball speed, club speed, launch angle, and more.
With its 5.0 software update, the simulator has leveled up its game, adding features like Course Play, enhanced e6 Connect compatibility, and new metrics that offer insights into every swing.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, the SkyTrak+ Golf Simulator provides the tools necessary for improvement and enjoyment. The new software enhancements focus on making the device more intuitive while maintaining its hallmark accuracy.
First Impression of the SkyTrak+
The SkyTrak+ impresses right out of the box with its solid build and compact design, making it easy to set up in smaller spaces like a garage. The 40% larger hitting area makes alignment simpler, and connecting via USB-C or Wi-Fi is quick, taking less than 30 minutes.
The device feels well-constructed, and the dual Doppler radar and camera system deliver instant, detailed feedback on key metrics like ball speed and launch angle. The app is intuitive, especially the PC version, which feels slightly more refined for dedicated simulator setups.
Overall, the SkyTrak+ makes an immediate impact as a user-friendly, highly accurate launch monitor ideal for home use.
Setup and Ease of Use
One of the highlights of the SkyTrak+ Golf Simulator is how straightforward it is to set up. Whether you’re working with a garage, a spare room, or even a basement, this indoor golf simulator doesn’t require a ton of space.
However, ensure you have enough room to swing your clubs freely and have the right lighting for its camera-based launch monitor to perform accurately.
- Unboxing: Inside the box, you’ll find the SkyTrak+ unit along with USB-C cables for charging. Setup is as simple as connecting the device via USB-C or Wi-Fi, and charging it fully.
- App Download: Download the SkyTrak app on your mobile device or PC, and create an account to start using the simulator.
- Ball Placement: Place the ball on the red laser dot projected by the SkyTrak+ and start swinging.
The entire setup process takes less than 30 minutes, making it one of the easiest simulators to set up and use.
Key Features of SkyTrak+
SkyTrak+ isn’t just an update; it’s a serious leap forward for home golf simulators. Let’s dive into what makes it stand out.
1. Unparalleled Accuracy with SkyTrak+
The SkyTrak+ Golf Launch Monitor combines dual Doppler radar with an improved photometric camera system to deliver unmatched accuracy.
This cutting-edge system is designed to capture essential data for every swing, from clubhead speed to smash factor, while offering precision typically found only in high-end tour equipment.
- Dual Doppler Radar: This system tracks club metrics like club path, face angle, and smash factor, providing essential data for game improvement. With the added proprietary machine-learning algorithms, the SkyTrak+ delivers reliable data across all skill levels.
- Photometric Camera: The enhanced camera system captures ball speed, launch angle, and spin rates, providing comprehensive ball tracking data for every shot. Whether you’re practicing at home or at the range, the SkyTrak+ performs equally well indoors and on mats outdoors.
2. Advanced Club Data – Get the Full Picture
SkyTrak+ goes beyond basic ball tracking. It delivers vital club data that helps you understand the mechanics of your swing in detail:
- Clubhead Speed: How fast the club moves at impact.
- Smash Factor: A ratio that shows how efficiently energy is transferred from the club to the ball.
- Club Path: Whether your swing is inside-out, outside-in, or straight.
- Face Angle: Whether the clubface is square, open, or closed at impact.
This data is critical for diagnosing flaws in your swing and making necessary adjustments to improve overall performance.
3. New and Improved Shot Optimizer Interface
The Shot Optimizer is one of the most powerful features of the SkyTrak+. It provides instant feedback on key metrics like launch angle, spin rate, and ball speed, and compares your results to professional standards.
Using a simple color-coded system—green (optimal), yellow (average), and red (needs improvement)—you can quickly understand where your performance stacks up against professional golfers.
The Shot Optimizer also includes tutorials from Golf Digest’s #22 teacher Nick Clearwater, offering in-depth insights on improving your swing.
4. Dual Doppler Radar for Club Data Measurement
The inclusion of dual Doppler radar in the SkyTrak+ sets it apart from many competitors. It measures essential club metrics with precision, making it a powerful tool for golfers serious about improving their swing mechanics. Whether you’re looking to boost clubhead speed or straighten out your club path, the Doppler radar ensures your practice data is spot on.
5. Access to Top Golf Courses Worldwide
With SkyTrak+, you can play on over 100,000 virtual golf courses from around the world, including legendary courses like St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, and Pinehurst.
It integrates seamlessly with top simulator software like e6 Connect, WGT by TopGolf, and The Golf Club 2019, making it an incredibly immersive experience.
Data Metrics and Accuracy
SkyTrak+ delivers detailed shot metrics, including:
- Carry Distance
- Ball Speed
- Launch Angle
- Clubhead Speed
- Spin Rates
- Club Path
- Face Angle
When compared to high-end launch monitors like the GC3, the SkyTrak+ performs impressively, offering data accuracy within one or two yards for distance, at half the price. While it occasionally shows lower spin rates than top-tier models, this is a minor discrepancy that won’t impact the average user.
Game Improvement Features
The SkyTrak+ offers several powerful tools for game improvement, making it more than just a simulator. Here’s a closer look at how these features can help you take your game to the next level.
1. Shot Optimizer
The Shot Optimizer provides an in-depth analysis of your swing and ball metrics, allowing you to compare your stats against professional benchmarks. With color-coded feedback, the Shot Optimizer clearly shows where you need to improve, making it perfect for golfers of all levels.
2. Skills Assessment
The Skills Assessment evaluates your entire bag, tracking the performance of each club and giving you a handicap score for every club. This helps you identify where your strengths and weaknesses lie, allowing you to fine-tune your practice sessions.
3. Bag Mapping
Bag Mapping is a game-changing feature that allows you to analyze and map out the performance of each club in your set. By hitting shots with every club, you’ll get precise data on how far you hit each one under varying conditions. This ensures you can fill in any distance gaps between clubs and optimize your selection on the course, making it an invaluable tool for game planning and club optimization.
4. Wedge Matrix
The Wedge Matrix is an advanced tool focused on your short game. It helps you fine-tune your wedge distances by testing and analyzing your shot consistency with different lofts and distances. This feature is especially useful for improving accuracy and distance control with scoring clubs, which is crucial for lowering your overall handicap.
SkyTrak Plus Vs Competitors
- SkyTrak+ vs. Mevo Plus: The Mevo Plus offers Doppler-based tracking but can be finicky about setup. SkyTrak+’s camera-based system makes it easier to use, especially indoors.
- SkyTrak+ vs. Bushnell Launch Pro: The Bushnell Launch Pro provides slightly more accurate club path data, but at a significantly higher price. SkyTrak+ offers almost comparable accuracy at a lower cost.
SkyTrak Plus Subscription Plans Review
The SkyTrak+ offers a range of subscription options that enhance your experience beyond basic practice modes. Each tier unlocks additional features tailored to different levels of golfers, whether you’re focusing on improvement or full-course simulation.
- Basic Plan (Free): Provides access to the Driving Range with essential metrics like ball speed, carry distance, and launch angle. This plan is perfect for basic practice sessions without any additional costs.
- Game Improvement Package ($129.95/year): This plan opens up advanced features such as Bag Mapping, Skills Assessment, and various practice challenges like Closest to the Pin. You can also track your progress over time with detailed session data and charts.
- Play & Improve Package ($249.95/year): For those looking for a full simulator experience, this plan gives you access to 15 world-class courses via E6 Connect and WGT. It’s a great option for golfers who want to mix practice with simulated course play.
Compared to other golf simulators, SkyTrak+ offers affordable, feature-packed plans that cater to both casual and serious golfers.
SkyTrak+ Third Party Simulation Options
The SkyTrak+ offers various software packages that significantly enhance your golf simulation experience. Each software package is tailored to suit different needs, from practicing on virtual driving ranges to simulating real-world golf courses. Here’s a closer look at these options:
1. Course Play
The Course Play package is priced at $220 and allows you to experience a range of famous golf courses from around the world. It provides essential shot data such as carry distance, ball speed, and launch angle, making it ideal for golfers looking for a straightforward course play experience. This package is perfect for those who want a basic, realistic simulation of actual courses without complex gameplay options
2. TruGolf E6 Connect Basic
Priced at $300, TruGolf E6 Connect Basic is one of the most advanced software options available. It offers access to 27 high-quality courses, including iconic locations like Pebble Beach and Aviara. In addition to course play, this package includes multiple game modes such as Stroke Play, Best Ball, and Stableford. It also features engaging mini-games like Closest to the Pin and Long Drive, making it ideal for golfers who want a well-rounded, immersive experience with both practice and entertainment options.
3. The Golf Club 2019
For $479, The Golf Club 2019 offers an extensive range of features, including over 150,000 user-generated courses. This software is perfect for golfers who enjoy variety, as it allows for custom course designs and multiplayer modes. With stunning graphics and realistic shot feedback, The Golf Club 2019 is great for both competitive players and those looking for a highly customizable experience.
4. Creative Golf 3D
Starting at $150, Creative Golf 3D brings a more casual and entertaining approach to golf simulation. In addition to real-world course simulations, this package includes fun mini-games and practice tools designed to make your sessions more engaging. It’s perfect for family-friendly play and golfers who prefer a lighter, more relaxed approach to improving their game.
5. ProTee Play
Priced from $149, ProTee Play combines fun with skill development, offering a mix of mini-games and traditional golf practice options. Whether you’re honing your swing or enjoying casual gameplay, this package provides a balanced experience for both practice and fun.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable compared to premium models.
- Comprehensive data tracking for both ball and club.
- Easy setup with minimal calibration.
- Compatible with leading golf simulator software like e6 Connect.
Cons:
- Less accurate on natural grass, works best on mats.
- Occasional inconsistencies with club path data.
Final Thoughts: Is SkyTrak+ Worth It?
The SkyTrak+ is an outstanding choice for home golfers who want a professional-level experience without the premium price tag. Its combination of advanced dual Doppler radar, machine-learning algorithms, and game improvement tools make it a valuable investment for improving your golf game.
With its user-friendly setup and access to over 100,000 courses, the SkyTrak+ is perfect for golfers looking to bring the golf course to their home.
If you’re serious about improving your swing or just want to enjoy a high-quality golf simulator at home, the SkyTrak+ is well worth the investment.
