Golf Simulator in Basement (Complete Overview)

Written by Todd in Golf Simulator FAQs

Dreaming about playing golf 365 days a year 24/7?

A couple of decades ago golf simulators were only for the wealthy or for commercial locations.

With the affordable options on the market today, a golf simulator is a lot closer to reality that you might imagine.

I was fortunate enough to build a golf simulator in my house several years ago.  I have now played over 800 rounds and have seen a decrease in my average score from between 76-80 to 68-76.  The remarkable difference comes down to ball striking and the ability to practice golf year round.

On top of that, the golf simulator has provided a great way to spend time with family and friends, while challenging our golf game on the world’s most challenging and fun course.  Including Pebble Beach, Augusta, St. Andrews, Whistling Straits and Bethpage Black. 

The fun never ends and the rain, snow or a lack of daylight cannot stop us from enjoy the game we all love!

Can I Build A Golf SImulator In My Basement?

Yes, as long as you have enough space and the right budget, you can make it happen.  Access to playing golf 365 with excellent feedback on what took palace during your swing is an amazing recipe for game improvement.  The amount of fun for the avide golfer is tough to match, especially during the winter months.

I am fortunate to play golf quite often in the months of May through August.  One more added bonus is that when I do play in March, April, September or October, my game is still sharp from the rounds and practice time spent in my golf simulator.

The amount of space you will need at a minimum is a 9 foot ceiling, at least 10 feet of width and around 15 feet of dept.  The ideal setup includes a 10 foot or higher ceiling, 20 feet of width and 20 feet of depth!  Regardless, many golfers have build their golf simulator in less space, as long as safety and fun can be combine, go for it and have a blast!

Complete Post: How much space is needed for a golf simulator?

Golf simulators are a game changer!

How Much Does it Cost To Build A Golf Simulator?

The prices will range between $1000 at the low end, all the way up to 30-40k with the most realistic price for a quality home golf simulator at around $7000.

For the 1000 dollar price range you can expect to land yourself a Optishot, which is great to swing the club, but will lack some overall quality and overall experience.  If you are serious about improving your game and want a realistic experience, I would highly recommend the SkyTrak Launch Monitor.

Helpful Post: How to Build a Golf Simulator for under $7000

The Skytrak Launch monitor when paired with The Golf Club (TGC) software is an impressive setup in the $7000 price range, which will include a gaming computer, projector, enclosure and screen and the hitting mat.  This will provide you with the complete package to have some unbelievable fun!

When I built mine I bought the top end of most of the options and it has all lasted over 800 rounds.  When you consider that I have hit over 40,000 shots with my simulator, that is rather impressive that all of the original parts are still in play! 

The SkyTrak sits next to the ball and when paired with TGC you have access to unbelievable courses and perfect graphics.  When compared with some commercial setups I have experienced, I would rate my home setup as a better overall experience than the commercial setups!

The dream of owning your own golf simulator in your basement, extra room or your garage is closer to reality than you might have imagined.

I would recommend shopping the options and purchasing from Rain or Shine Golf.  The customer service, package offerings, options and financing make it a one stop shop for all of your needs to make your dream a reality!

What Are the Essential Parts for a Golf Simulator In A Basement?

Here are the essential parts you will need to purchase:

I would start with the Skytrak Launch Monitor and build everything around there.  If you have a $5000 budget, start with the Skytrak and figure out what you can afford elsewhere.  Overall, you can always add to your setup in the coming years, but I love my Skytrak and the TGC software!  It is an amazing combination!

If you are big into graphics, the software is vital.  If you try to save some money on the software, the overall experience could be impacted.  You can have the best projector with the best gaming computer and HD impact screen, but if the software is subpar, you will not have the same experience.

As far as the hitting mat, this is important to keep your joints and arms from being sore after hitting several hundred shots within a day.

Helpful Post: Is a golf simulator worth it?

A complete room build for a golf simulator!

Basement vs Garage

What if you don’t have the right amount of space in your basement, would it be fine to build a simulator in the garage?  Yes, the number one concern for garage spaces is the overall heating and cooling.  If you have extreme weather, either too hot or too hot, you will want to have an option to control the temperature in your garage.  

Benefits of the Basement Build

  • Climate control
  • Other areas to sit and watch television or sporting events
  • Easy access in your house and a comfortable setting

Benefits of the Garage Build

  • Doesn’t take space away from your living space
  • Typically provides plenty of space
  • Generally you do not have to worry about ceiling height issues

The garage has become a common space for many builds since it doesn’t take up space in the house.  Many people lack the ceiling height in a basement, unless the house was built with a golf simulator in mind.

For my build, I went with the garage because of ceiling height issues in the basement.  Not only do you have overall ceiling issues, but also where the beams and joist run could cause issues or a lack of overall space.

Best Reasons to Build A Golf Simulator

Having played 800 rounds, I have appreciate the opportunity to even play 30 minutes of golf in a day.  I do not have to travel to the course or wait on other people.  If I only have 30 minutes to play, I can get in 12-15 holes and have some awesome stress release while working on my golf game!

  1. So much fun
  2. Play golf 365 days year – No worry about weather
  3. Game Improvement
  4. Time with family and friends
  5. Saves time
  6. Easy access in your house
  7. Amazing golf courses
  8. Save money long term
  9. Great social time with other sporting events
  10.  Practice time and feedback provided

Overall, you simply can’t beat having a golf simulator in your house or garage.  The benefits are amazing and you have a ton of fun!  What are you waiting for!  Jump in and make your dream a reality!

Play the best courses in the world!

Take Action – What You Can Do Today to Get Better

What does this mean for you?  I believe in the following recipe to get better:

1 – Improve your motion in the golf swing by identifying a golf instructor.  Here are some options:

Here is a list of golf instructors that we have reviewed:

2 – Train to swing faster and improve your swing speed.  Here are some options:

Looking to gain more Speed and Distance in your swing. Two Options:

3 – Understand course strategy and work to break through your next barrier.  Here is a series on breaking through:

We have provided guides on how to break 100, 90, 80 and 70. Check out more below, if interested.

4 – Practice Frequently

Did you know that I build a golf simulator in my garage and have played over 500 rounds of golf on my SkyTrak system?  It has been a game changer and one worth checking out. Here are some of my other posts on golf simulators frequently asked questions:

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