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🔥 Sim Steals and Golf Deals

🏌️‍♂️3 Simulator Setups, 3 Budgets

We talked to three golfers who built their dream setups at three very different price points—from a $3,500 garage build to a custom $85K backyard shed. Whether you’re working with hand-me-down gear or laser projectors and turf decks, every single one of these setups proves that with the right priorities, you can create an awesome sim no matter your budget.

Build #1: Under $4K 

• Redditor: u/cbattung1016

• Total Cost: ~$3,500

• Location: Standard garage (2-car compatible)

The Gear 

• Launch Monitor: SkyTrak (1st Gen) + Metal Protective Case

• Software: GSPro

• Projector: Optoma UHD35STx

• Enclosure:  8x8x5’ Anything Sports Enclosure

• Mat: Golf guru hitting mat 

Why it works:

• The SkyTrak 1st Gen is still a legit entry-level monitor. Accurate enough for home use, integrates well with GSPro, and easily available on Amazon.

• They can still use their garage space—their car parks between the walls of the enclosure 

• Amazon closure is under $1k, making it great for budget builds

Essential Advice:

“Planning is the most important part of the whole golf sim experience. Knowing your space and launch monitor requirements makes everything else flow more smoothly. “

Build #2: Under $15K 

• Redditor: u/IAmNotMcLovin

• Total Cost: ~$13K–$15K

• Location: Enclosed sunroom

The Gear

• Launch Monitor: Uneekor Eye Mini Lite (purchased during Black Friday)

• Software: GSPro

• Projector: BenQ TK700STi (4K Short Throw)

• Enclosure: SIG8 Enclosure by The Indoor Golf Shop

• Mat: Country Club Elite + Fiberbuilt Insert

• Turf Deck: DIY plywood + 2x2 joist platform, covered in putting turf

Why it works:

• The Eye Mini Lite offers club + ball data and an impact camera—way more advanced than most mid-tier LMs.

• The SIG8 is a plug-and-play enclosure with blackout side + top panels for a clean, pro look.

• They saved money on turf by using plywood underlayment and just adding hitting inserts where needed.

Essential Advice:

“My biggest oversight was spending so much on the Country Club Elite mat. I could’ve built a wooden deck and stuck with just the Fiberbuilt hitting surface for way less money. Plus, I don’t even like hitting off the CCE mat—so that one was kind of a waste.”

Build #3: Under $90K 

• Redditor: u/BlobAndHisBoy

• Total Cost: ~$85,000

• Location: Custom 16'x26' backyard shed (10'6" ceilings)

Gear

• Launch Monitor: Uneekor EYE XO2 (ceiling-mounted)

• Software: GSPro

• Projector: BenQ LK936ST

• Enclosure: Premium screen + blackout curtains

• Mat: Fiberbuilt Insert flush-mounted into turf

• Flooring: Puzzle mats under turf + hitting mat cut flush

• Climate Control: Mr. Cool DIY Mini Split (self-installed HVAC system)

Why it works:

• The EYE XO2 gives tour-level ball and club data, plus high-speed impact video without needing stickers or marked balls.

• The custom shed gives dedicated space without sacrificing garage room—complete with insulation, power, HVAC, and flooring considerations.

• The Fiberbuilt insert is surrounded by putting turf for a level feel.

Essential Advice:

“If I had a tighter budget I would have got a cheaper projector, impact screen, computer, and launch monitor in that order.”

Side by Side Comparison

Each of these builds looks different—but here’s some through lines:

• SkyTrak and Amazon enclosures are still go-to picks for budget-conscious builds

• Uneekor, BenQ, and Fiberbuilt take things to the next level

• GSPro is everyone’s favorite software, no matter the setup.

Whether you’re budgeting for your first SkyTrak or installing turf in a $90K shed, the best golf sims start with the same foundation: smart planning, the right monitor, and a mat you don’t hate hitting off.

Got a simulator build you want featured? Reach out to [email protected]

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