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A $4000 golf simulator is still a budget simulator, sadly. But it is a huge step up from the $2000 golf simulator.
Being able to purchase a quality enclosure and impact screen makes all the difference. A $4000 budget allows you to purchase a custom sized enclosure from Carl’s Place. There is nothing quite like an enclosure that looks like it was made for the space.
You’ll find this setup is very similar to the $2000 setup, except you get some premium materials that feel better, are more durable, and more aesthetically pleasing.
The $4000 Golf Simulator
At the time of writing this post, the Build-Your-Own-Sim Tool had this setup priced at $3,708.89. That doesn’t include the projector mount or the iPad, which brings the total cost to $3,978.87.
This $4000 setup looks and feels premium. The launch monitor and software will still feel lacking, but that’s one of the sacrifices of a less expensive setup.
Here’s a list of each part in the setup:
- Garmin R10 Approach
- Carl’s Place DIY Enclosure w/ Standard Screen and Pipe Kit
- Carl’s 4’x5′ HotShot Hitting Mat
- 9th Gen iPad
- BenQ TH671ST Projector
- Garmin free or E6 free (5 courses)
If you already have the space for it, this golf simulator setup is simple to install and start playing!
Where You Could Save Money
Buying the entire DIY kit from Carl’s Place is convenient, but you could save a few hundred dollars if you purchase some items from Amazon or 2nd Swing.
You could bring the price down to about $3500 dollars if you purchase second hand or generic items.
Here’s a few items you can find on Amazon or used on 2nd Swing:
- Used Garmin R10 Approach (2nd Swing)
- leveling & alignment pad (Amazon)
- BenQ MX819ST Used (Amazon)
- Universal Ceiling Mount (Amazon)
2nd Swing sells gently used equipment, including launch monitors. You can usually pick up a used Garmin R10 for about $100 less than MSRP.
The Garmin R10 offers a plethora of advanced golf technologies at a reasonable price.
You could also save a few hundred bucks by purchasing a used projector from Amazon, such as the BenQ MX819ST.
Great projector with a very short throw. Best budget projector for home theater or golf simulator.
By keeping an eye out and researching, you can find savings all over the place. Sometimes it’s a matter of good timing if you’re searching for quality used equipment.
If you end up getting lucky, you could find yourself with a $4000 simulator for about $3200.
$4000 Golf Simulator Pros
1. Quality DIY Enclosure
Carl’s Place DIY C-Series Enclosures are second-to-none. They are simple to put together and a custom made to fit your available space.
Not to mention Carl’s Place is often $1000s less than the impact screens included in the pre-packaged deals from Skytrak. That’s some big savings.
I’ve never heard anything bad about a Carl’s Place enclosure, and that’s saying something.
A hassle-free, all-in-one home golf enclosure.
2. Premium Hitting Mat
The budget hitting mat included in the $2000 setup isn’t soft. It could leave you wishing you upgraded after about 50 shots or so.
Inexpensive mats can be hard, grab you club, and leave you with sore elbows.
The Carl’s HotShot Hitting Mat will allow you to hit more balls before you start feeling fatigued. The club glides through the turf, just like normal grass.
An anti-fatigue, easy-on-the-joints golf mat that lets you play golf for hours without pain.
3. Affordable
A $4000 full golf simulator setup is a great deal. The least expensive full setups from Skytrak will run you closer to $8000 dollars.
This is a budget setup that will give you everything you need while prepping you for future upgrades. Every golf simulator owner starts upgrading stuff. It’s inevitable.
With the $4000 setup you won’t have to upgrade the enclosure and impact screen.
The $4000 Golf Simulator Cons
1. Lower End Launch Monitor
The R10 is a great launch monitor. Don’t get me wrong. It gets the job done and provides a good overall experience.
After a while, you might get tired of missed shots or finnicky adjustments. Or you might want the club data that a premium launch monitor like Uneekor Eye Mini, Bushnell Launch Pro, or Skytrak can offer.
But as far as budget launch monitors go, the R10 is impossible to beat.
The Garmin R10 offers a plethora of advanced golf technologies at a reasonable price.
2. Standard Impact Screen
Carl’s Place has three impact screens: standard, preferred, and premium. The $4000 dollar simulator I priced out includes the standard impact screen.
It might be worth it to upgrade to preferred or premium. I’d definitely recommend it if you are concerned about picture quality or sound. The impact sound of the ball on the premium screen is more muted.
3. Free Software is Lacking
Software is a bugger. GSPro, E6, AwesomeGolf, etc. require subscription fees to use their software.
I’d stick to the free software until you are comfortable with your simulator. It’s not the fanciest, but it works.
Then you can venture into the free trials to figure out which software you like best.
Final Thoughts
The $4000 full golf simulator is an incredible value. It provides you will everything you need for an enjoyable golf simulator experience. It’s a huge upgrade from the $2000 setup in both quality and aesthetics.
If you are new to the golf simulator world and have a smaller budget, give this setup a try. You won’t regret it.
Jacob is a Professional Engineer, professional gym-goer, and golf enthusiast. He is obsessed with golf-specific fitness, golf simulators, and hitting long drives.