If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for ways to sharpen your golf game, especially when it’s not practical to hit the range or play a round outside.
That’s where the SkyTrak Plus comes into play. I’ve been using it for a while now, and I want to share my honest thoughts on what it’s like using this golf simulator.
Whether you’re wondering if it’s the right fit for your space, how it stacks up against more expensive models like the Foresight GC3, or you’re curious about the software, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the SkyTrak Plus, from setup to performance to whether it’s worth the investment.
First Impressions
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed the SkyTrak Plus was how compact it is. It doesn’t scream high-tech, but don’t let that fool you—this thing packs a serious punch.
At $2,995, it’s not exactly cheap, but compared to other options like Trackman or the GCQuad, it’s more affordable while still offering a solid suite of features.
Setting It Up: Easy but Takes Some Time
Setting up the SkyTrak Plus was a little time-consuming, but straightforward. Here’s a quick rundown of what the setup involves:
- Create your SkyTrak account (super easy, just like setting up any other app).
- Download the SkyTrak software for PC or mobile.
- Connect via USB or WiFi. I personally prefer the USB-C option—it’s quicker and more reliable.
- Pair your SkyTrak+ with apps like e6 Connect if you want to access additional golf courses.
One thing I’ll point out: if you’re using an iPad without cellular, you might find the WiFi setup a bit annoying because you lose internet access while connected to SkyTrak’s network. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something to consider if you’re juggling multiple devices.
Performance and Accuracy: Does It Deliver?
When it comes to accuracy, the SkyTrak Plus performs incredibly well, especially indoors. It uses photometric and dual-doppler radar technology to track shots, and I’ve found the data to be on par with the more expensive models out there. For most shots, the ball speed, clubhead speed, and carry distance readings were almost identical to what you’d get on something like the GC3.
But there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Indoor performance is stellar. Whether you’re in your garage or basement, the SkyTrak+ gives you accurate results.
- Outdoors, it’s a bit more finicky, especially when hitting off grass. You might notice a slight lag or missed shots, but that’s expected unless you’re using pro-level equipment.
- I noticed some inconsistencies with club path and spin rates compared to other high-end devices, but for a $3K launch monitor, it’s hard to complain too much.
Key Metrics Tracked:
- Ball Speed
- Club Path
- Launch Angle
- Backspin & Side Spin
- Distance Offline
These metrics are available in real-time, and you can even dive deeper into each shot’s data, thanks to the detailed analysis available through the software. Plus, there’s a handy color-coding system for launch angle and spin rates, showing you if you’re in the “optimal range” for your shots.
Software and Subscription Options: Worth It?
If there’s one thing that sets SkyTrak Plus apart from other launch monitors, it’s the software. After using it for a few sessions, I found the SkyTrak software incredibly user-friendly. It’s intuitive, looks modern, and runs smoothly on both iOS and PC.
The downside? You’ll need to pay for one of the annual subscription plans to unlock all the good stuff. Here’s what you get with each plan:
- Game Improvement Plan ($130/year): Unlocks features like Bag Mapping, Skills Assessment, and access to simulated golf.
- Play & Improve Plan ($250/year): Adds access to E6 Connect and World Golf Tour courses, with over 100,000 virtual courses to choose from.
Personally, I found the Game Improvement plan to be more than enough, but if you’re big on simulated golf, it might be worth investing in the Play & Improve plan.
SkyTrak Plus vs. Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?
Now, I know you’re wondering how the SkyTrak Plus compares to other popular launch monitors like the Foresight GC3 or the FlightScope Mevo+. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | SkyTrak Plus | Foresight GC3 | FlightScope Mevo+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $2,995 | $5,999 | $1,954 |
| Software | SkyTrak, e6 Connect | FSX Pro | FlightScope App |
| Accuracy | High (indoors) | Very high (both) | High (outdoors) |
| Ease of Setup | Easy, but takes time | Moderate | Quick but finicky |
While the GC3 offers a bit more accuracy, especially outdoors, I don’t think the higher price tag is justified for most amateur golfers. The SkyTrak Plus strikes a great balance between affordability and performance, making it the best option for home use, especially indoors.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick summary of what I loved about the SkyTrak Plus and where it falls short:
Pros:
- Affordable compared to other high-end launch monitors
- Accurate metrics for ball speed, club speed, and launch angle
- User-friendly software with intuitive data displays
- Large library of virtual courses with Play & Improve subscription
Cons:
- Some inaccuracies in club path and spin rates
- Not as reliable outdoors
- Requires annual subscriptions for full functionality
Is SkyTrak Plus Worth It?
In short, yes. If you’re looking for a golf simulator that delivers a great balance of accuracy, ease of use, and value, the SkyTrak Plus is an excellent choice.
It’s not without its flaws, but unless you’re a tour-level golfer who needs pinpoint accuracy outdoors, this launch monitor will meet most of your needs at a fraction of the cost of more expensive models.
Whether you’re practicing in the garage, playing a virtual round with friends, or just working on your game in the off-season, the SkyTrak Plus is a solid investment for any golfer serious about improving their performance.
