When it comes to choosing between the SkyTrak and Mevo Plus, you’re likely wondering which golf launch monitor will give you the best bang for your buck.
Both are popular choices among golfers looking to improve their game, whether you’re setting up an indoor golf simulator or planning to take your practice to the driving range. But let’s be honest—choosing between these two isn’t easy.
They each have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your specific needs.
Is SkyTrak or Mevo Plus Better for Your Golf Game?
The first thing you need to know is that both the SkyTrak and Mevo Plus are excellent tools for golf swing analysis.
However, they approach data collection and usability differently. SkyTrak uses photometric technology, which means it captures high-speed images of the ball to measure various golf ball data points. On the other hand, Mevo Plus utilizes Doppler radar technology to track both ball flight and club metrics.
This difference in technology sets the stage for how these devices perform in various environments.
Key Features and Technologies
Let’s break down what each of these launch monitors brings to the table in terms of features, performance, and technology.
1. Data Parameters and Accuracy
Both SkyTrak and Mevo Plus provide critical data that every golfer needs to fine-tune their game:
- SkyTrak: Measures ball speed, launch angle, backspin, side spin, side angle, carry distance, and club head speed. It also offers photometric accuracy, which is particularly strong in indoor settings.
- Mevo Plus: Captures data such as ball speed, club head speed, carry distance, total distance, roll distance, smash factor, spin rate, spin axis, and launch angles. With the Pro Package, it expands to include club path, face to path, and other advanced club metrics.
Which is more accurate? In controlled environments, SkyTrak tends to offer slightly more precise data for indoor golf simulators, especially when it comes to spin rate accuracy and launch angle measurement. Mevo Plus, with its Doppler radar, excels in outdoor settings, making it ideal for those who split their practice between indoors and outdoors.
2. Simulator Software Compatibility
Simulator software is where these devices show their versatility:
- SkyTrak: Compatible with E6 Connect, The Golf Club 2019, WGT, and other platforms. You’ll need the SkyTrak Game Improvement Plan to unlock additional features, but once you do, the range of practice games and golf simulation software is extensive.
- Mevo Plus: Also integrates with E6 Connect, The Golf Club 2019, Awesome Golf, GSPro, and more. The out-of-the-box E6 Connect compatibility with a limited number of courses makes Mevo Plus a bit more accessible right away.
3. Space Requirements
If you’re short on space, this could be the deciding factor:
- SkyTrak: Requires minimal indoor simulator space—just a few feet of ball flight. This makes it ideal for smaller rooms or garages. Its compact design also means it can be set up in various indoor environments without much hassle.
- Mevo Plus: Needs about 16 feet of space—8 feet behind the ball and another 8 feet in front of it to capture accurate data. If you have the room, great. If not, this could be a deal-breaker.
4. Portability
Planning to take your launch monitor to the range?
- SkyTrak: While portable, it’s more of a “set it and forget it” device, particularly well-suited for indoor use.
- Mevo Plus: Highly portable and comes with a carrying case, making it easy to transport. If you frequently move between different practice environments, the Mevo Plus is the clear winner here.
Practical Considerations for Every Golfer
1. Setup and Usability
Both devices are user-friendly, but they have their quirks:
- SkyTrak: The setup is straightforward. You position it in front of your golf ball, and within minutes, you’re ready to start your practice session. The downside? It has a slight shot delay of 2-3 seconds, which some might find distracting.
- Mevo Plus: Setup is a bit more involved due to the need for precise alignment, especially when using it indoors. However, once set up, it offers immediate feedback, which is particularly beneficial during real-time golf data analysis.
2. Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
Where do you plan to use your launch monitor the most?
- SkyTrak: Excels indoors due to its photometric technology, which doesn’t require much space and isn’t affected by lighting conditions. It struggles a bit outdoors, particularly in bright sunlight.
- Mevo Plus: Shines outdoors, thanks to its Doppler radar system, which handles varying weather conditions well. Indoors, it’s great too—but only if you have the space.
3. Golf Simulation Experience
When it comes to turning your practice into a full-blown golf simulation experience, both devices offer a lot:
- SkyTrak: You’ll need a subscription for full access to various simulation options, but the quality of the golf simulation experience is excellent. Whether you’re playing a round at Pebble Beach on The Golf Club 2019 or participating in a skills challenge, the experience is immersive.
- Mevo Plus: Offers a bit more out of the box, especially with the limited version of E6 Connect that includes five courses. However, its putting accuracy can be finicky due to the radar’s sensitivity to surface conditions.
4. Cost and Value
What’s the price tag for each, and what are you getting?
- SkyTrak: Priced around $2,995, it’s not cheap, but the value lies in its reliable indoor performance and wide range of compatible software. The cost of subscriptions should be factored in, but for most, it’s worth it.
- Mevo Plus: At $1,954, it’s a more affordable option initially. If you add the Pro Package for $1,000, you’re looking at a total of $3,199. The Pro Package is a game-changer for serious golfers who want to dig deep into their swing mechanics, but it does raise the cost.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between SkyTrak and Mevo Plus boils down to your specific needs. Here’s a quick recap:
- Go with SkyTrak if: You have limited indoor space, prefer a device that’s easy to set up and use, and want highly accurate ball data with a range of simulation software options.
- Opt for Mevo Plus if: You need a portable launch monitor for both indoor and outdoor use, value immediate feedback, and are looking to dive deeper into swing mechanics with the Pro Package.
Summary
Both SkyTrak and Mevo Plus are excellent golf launch monitors with unique strengths. SkyTrak is your best bet for a dedicated indoor setup, offering comprehensive golf ball data and simulation features that require minimal space.
Mevo Plus, with its portable design and Doppler radar technology, is ideal for those who practice both indoors and outdoors and want in-depth analysis with real-time shot data.
In the end, it’s not about which is better overall but which is better for you. Whether you’re focused on improving your swing mechanics, enhancing your golf simulator setup, or just getting the most accurate real-time data, both these devices can help you achieve your goals.
The choice is yours—choose wisely, and your golf game will thank you.
