I don’t know how much golf you watch on television, but I’m a frequent viewer, especially on the weekends. And I’ve noticed a trend over the last few years. It’s that when footage is showed of players warming up on the range, they’re all using a launch monitor to make sure all their distances and ball flight data points are dialed in.
The truth is, most of these pros we see on television are using launch monitors like Trackman that cost tens of thousands of dollars. That’s more than a little out of my price range.
But what if I told you, you too could have a launch monitor you could use both indoors and out, that cost a whole lot less?
It’s called the Optishot Orbit Golf Simulator. For as long as anyone can remember, Optishot has been a trusted name in the launch monitor and golf simulator space. The Orbit is one of their latest versions, and it’s arguably one of the best.
Keep reading because we’re going to discuss it in detail in today’s review.
Key Features
Simulator can be used both indoors and out
Optishhot Orion software delivers eight key swing and ball flight metrics.
Simulator comes with a driving range and 20 preloaded courses that allow you to practice or play full rounds with up to eight players.
Optishot Orbit
Optishot Orbit delivers game-changing feedback with unmatched realism and accuracy for every swing.
Design and Technology
There’s no question that the advent of golf simulators has fundamentally changed how golfers learn and practice in the modern era. The technological breakthroughs that have come about have allowed for real-time feedback that steepens the learning curve exponentially. That’s certainly the case with the Optishot Orbit.
The story starts with Optishot’s Orion Software. This software is the brain that allows the simulator to deliver deadly accurate swing and ball flight data. Used in simulator mode in concert with the Swing Caddie app, you get a virtual display of your stats on your iOS or Android.
If you want to use the Orbit indoors, Orion software lets you practice on the driving range, or play on any one of 20 preloaded courses. Here, you can play entire rounds with up to eight players. This is a great feature when you’re watching football with the guys, and you can even play remotely with other players that are online.
When you use the Orbit outside on the range, it operates as a standalone unit that gives you the metrics of carry distance, launch direction, swing and ball speed, smash factor, apex, and spin rate.
If you want to take your play and practice a step further, the Orbit connects to your smart device via Bluetooth and allows you to save all your data. You can record your swings and produce overlays.
Extras include a remote control, voice output of distance, and a lithium-ion battery that lasts up to 10 hours.
Our Experience
Having tried all different kinds of simulators and launch monitors, I can say with confidence that the Optishot Orbit is the best bang for your buck of anything on the market.
I’ve found the data points it measures to be very accurate. Coupled with the fact that you can use the Orbit both indoors and out, and you’ve got an affordable, winning combination in my book.
Optishot Orbit
Optishot Orbit delivers game-changing feedback with unmatched realism and accuracy for every swing.
Is the Optishot Orbit Worth It?
Absolutely, while the Optishot Orbit is a great product, there are a few pros and cons that you need to be aware of:
Pros:
Versatile Use : Can be used indoors or outdoors, making it suitable for various environments.
Affordable Price : Offers professional-grade metrics at a lower cost compared to premium competitors.
Comprehensive Features : Includes 20 real-world courses, multiple practice ranges, and detailed swing analysis without subscription fees.
Cons:
Limited Spin Axis Measurement : Does not measure spin axis, reducing shot shape accuracy.
Software Issues : The MySwingCaddie app has occasional connectivity problems and bugs.
Space Requirements : Requires at least 14 feet of depth for optimal performance, limiting use in smaller spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the OptiShot Orbit package?
The OptiShot Orbit package includes a launch monitor, a hitting mat, and a redemption code for the OptiShot Orion software which provides access to photorealistic golf courses.
How accurate is the OptiShot Orbit's tracking of ball flight and club data?
The OptiShot Orbit uses infrared sensors to track club data like speed, face angle, and swing path. However, some users have expressed skepticism about the accuracy of the infrared tracking compared to more advanced launch monitors.
Does the OptiShot Orbit require a subscription to use the included courses?
Unlike the previous OptiShot software, the new Orion software that comes with the Orbit includes a suite of photorealistic courses with no added annual fees. This is seen as a positive by some users tired of golf simulator subscriptions.
How much space is needed to use the OptiShot Orbit?
The OptiShot Orbit requires a hitting area of at least 8.5' high by 10' wide by 10' deep to swing a club freely and collect accurate data. Be sure to test your available space before setting up the simulator.
What devices is the OptiShot Orbit compatible with?
The OptiShot Orbit is compatible with PC devices. Make sure your PC meets the system requirements for the Orion software.
Conclusion
When portable golf simulators first came out, they were prohibitively expensive. Devices like Trackman and Flightscope were thousands of dollars.
In the years since, however, much more affordable simulators have come out. One of the best, and most affordable is the Optishot Orbit Indoor and Outdoor Golf Simulator. Not only does this simulator provide you with the information you need to understand your game and get better, it allows you to practice and play in formats that are both fun and informative.
So, if you’re serious about improving your game, and want to have a blast in the process, give the Optishot Orbit Simulator a chance. I’m a big fan of this simulator and I think you will be too.
Paul Liberatore
As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX. After graduating with honors from Purdue University, he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube, he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry.
