Track your golf swing data like a pro. Here are 10 of the best portable launch monitors on the market today. Check them out!
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If you’re reading this, you’re serious about becoming a better golfer. Portable launch monitors are devices utilized by golfers to measure and analyze data from carry distance and swing speed to spin rate and just about every other golf-related metric in between, all in the hopes of fine-tuning and improving their game.
Such knowledge — especially from a portable device you can easily bring to the golf course or driving range and even set up in your own backyard, basement, or garage — comes at a price.
While some high-end launch monitor models can cost thousands, there are more affordable options that don’t come with all the bells and whistles.
No matter what you’re looking for, there is a portable launch monitor for you. Here are our suggestions for 10 of the best portable launch monitors on the market today.
How to pick the right portable launch monitor for you
Portable launch monitors aren’t cheap. While some are more affordable than others, many models can cost thousands. Understanding your budget goes a long way in determining which product you may ultimately purchase.
Many of these portable launch monitors offer a bunch of bells and whistles that not everyone needs, especially if they can save money by purchasing a simpler device. Be sure to see what features and technology, like radar, camera system, and barometric sensor, come with each device before making your purchase. The more features and technology, the more accurate data you’ll get — but most likely at a steeper price.
The amount of data available to golfers these days can be overwhelming, so understanding which metrics you need to record, analyze, and improve upon can determine which portable launch monitor best fits you. Some of the more affordable ones measure a handful of basic data, while more expensive models seem to give you every metric under the sun and then some.
Portable launch monitors are great for golfers looking for an edge. With a seemingly endless amount of data and metrics available these days, these devices can be as high-tech or as simple as you desire, offering valuable feedback to help you improve your game and go lower.
FAQ
What launch monitor does Tiger Woods use?
In case you missed it above, Tiger Woods uses and trusts the Full Swing KIT Launch Monitor, which offers 16 points of radar-powered club and ball data and high-resolution video from a built-in camera. “I know that Full Swing is measuring my golf ball, not guessing at it,” Woods said of his favorite launch monitor.
How accurate are portable launch monitors?
Portable launch monitors come in a variety of makes and models, each offering differing features and technology to measure ball and club data. Higher-end models feature better technology and therefore offer more accurate data, but there are plenty of more affordable portable launch monitors that can provide great accuracy as well.
What launch monitor does Bryson DeChambeau use?
Bryson DeChambeau hasn’t earned the nickname “Mad Scientist” for no reason. Always tinkering and analyzing, the 2020 U.S. Open champion has utilized a few different launch monitors throughout his career, including the Foresight Sports GCQuad, FlightScope X3 and Mevo+, and Trackman.
Currently a contributor to Forbes SportsMoney, Michael has 15 years of experience as a writer and editor, having worked for daily newspapers, pro sports teams/leagues, and online media startups. His bylines include: Vice Sports, Yahoo Sports, PGATour.com, NHL.com, PGA Tour Essential Guide to Golf, Boardroom, Robb Report, and Muscle & Fitness.
