PRGR Launch Monitor Review

PRGR Launch Monitor Review

By Paul Liberatore

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Published:

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You'll find impressive value in the PRGR Black Pocket Launch Monitor, a compact $229 device that delivers accurate ball and swing metrics through dual Doppler radar sensors. The unit accurately measures swing speed, ball speed, carry distance, and smash factor within 1 MPH of premium devices, while its simple five-button interface and large LCD display make operation a breeze. Setup requires minimal effort - just place it 4.5 feet behind the ball, and you're ready to track up to 500 shots without needing WiFi or apps. While it lacks advanced features like launch angle and spin rate, its portability, accuracy, and straightforward functionality make it an excellent choice for dedicated practice sessions. There's much more to uncover about this increasingly popular launch monitor's capabilities.

Key Features

Accurate Doppler radar technology provides reliable measurements within 1 MPH for ball speed and swing speed at a budget-friendly price of $229.

Highly portable 4.4-ounce device requires simple setup 4.5 feet behind the ball, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor practice.

Large LCD display shows key metrics without requiring WiFi or smartphone apps, featuring 500-shot memory for quick data access.

Device measures critical data including swing speed, ball speed, carry distance, and smash factor but lacks launch angle and spin metrics.

User-friendly five-button interface with automatic shutoff feature operates on four AAA batteries and includes one-year warranty coverage.

Key Features and Specifications

While many launch monitors require complex setup and connectivity, the PRGR Black Pocket Launch Monitor offers straightforward functionality with its dual Doppler radar sensors. You'll appreciate its extensive measurement capabilities, which track everything from your swing speed and ball speed to carry distance and smash factor. The large LCD display shows your readings clearly, and you won't need to fiddle with WiFi connections or app downloads to see your results. The manual data logging means you can focus on your swings without technical distractions.


What really sets this device apart is its user-friendly operation and impressive data storage. You can review your last 500 shots right on the screen, making it perfect for those practice sessions where you're working on consistency. The unit runs on standard AAA batteries and includes a battery-saving auto-shutoff feature, so you won't find yourself stranded mid-session. Whether you're a southpaw or right-handed player, you'll find the PRGR Black accommodates your setup with ease. The device delivers accuracy within 1 mph for both ball and swing speed measurements, putting it in league with some considerably pricier launch monitors, though you'll want to verify proper alignment for the best results. At just 4.4 ounces, this monitor is exceptionally portable and easy to take anywhere you practice.

Setup and Operating Instructions

Getting started with the PRGR Black Pocket Launch Monitor requires careful attention to positioning and setup for accurate readings. You'll need to place the device exactly 4 1/2 feet behind your golf ball, making sure it's lying flat on its back and slightly raised from your swing path. The launch monitor sensor must have a clear line of sight to detect ball and club movement accurately. If you're setting up indoors, don't forget to leave at least 6 1/2 feet between the ball and your net - trust me, you'll want that extra space!


Before you start swinging away, you'll need to pop in four AAA batteries and power up the unit using the ON/OFF & ENTER button. Once it's running, use the MODE button to select your club, and you're almost ready to go. The LCD screen will be your window into a world of data, including swing speed, ball speed, and those all-important distance measurements. The newer HS-130A model features a high-resolution display for easier reading of your metrics. While you're getting familiar with the controls, you might want to grab an alignment rod to guarantee everything's perfectly positioned. If you're seeing some wonky readings, don't panic - sometimes a slight adjustment in the monitor's position is all you need for spot-on accuracy.

Accuracy and Performance Testing

In regards to accuracy, the PRGR Black Launch Monitor delivers impressive results that rival more expensive competitors. You'll find that its ball and swing speed measurements typically match those of premium devices like the Foresight GC3, often varying by just 1 mph or less. The device's smash factor readings are similarly reliable, making it a surprisingly capable performer for its price point. The device's new model displays distance measurements in both yards and meters, offering enhanced flexibility for international players.


When you're setting up the PRGR, proper alignment is essential, as incorrect placement can throw off your readings by up to 10%. You'll want to use standard golf balls rather than range balls for the most accurate distance measurements, and it's best to find a clutter-free space to minimize radar interference. The ability to store 500 shots allows for comprehensive performance tracking over time. While the device doesn't measure advanced metrics like spin rate or launch angle, it excels at its core functions through reliable Doppler radar technology. Whether you're practicing indoors or outdoors, you'll get consistent readings that automatically reset between shots. Just keep in mind that cluttered environments or highly lofted shots might occasionally challenge the device's accuracy, but with proper setup, you'll get professional-grade measurements at a fraction of the cost.

Battery Life and Power Management

The PRGR Black Pocket Launch Monitor powers through extended practice sessions with its efficient four-battery design and smart power management features. You'll find the battery compartment conveniently located at the back of the unit, where it houses four standard dry-cell batteries that'll keep you measuring shots for extended periods. The monitor's Doppler radar technology ensures precise measurements without excessive power drain. While the exact battery life isn't specified, you can count on consistent performance thanks to several power-saving features. The device's real-time data display on the LCD panel lets you monitor performance without draining additional power.


You'll appreciate the device's automatic shutoff function, which helps preserve battery life when you're not actively using it. There's no need to worry about complex setups or internet connections, as this launch monitor operates independently with just a flip of the power switch. To enhance your battery life, you'll want to follow some simple maintenance tips: keep the unit level during use, store it in the included carrying case, and give it a gentle wipe-down with a dry cloth periodically. The lightweight design (4.4 ounces) won't drain your batteries unnecessarily, and the LCD screen's power-efficient display keeps you informed without excessive energy consumption.

Data Storage and History

PRGR Black's data storage capabilities stand out with its impressive 500-shot memory capacity, giving you quick access to your most recent measurements without requiring external devices or internet connectivity. You'll appreciate how the device automatically resets after each swing, ensuring you're always ready for your next shot while maintaining your historical data for future reference. The system also records miss hits without providing statistics, helping you identify inconsistencies in your shots.


Navigation through your stored data couldn't be simpler, thanks to the intuitive scrolling button and clear LCD display that shows both current and previous measurements. The Doppler radar technology captures every detail of your swing metrics with remarkable precision. You'll find it invigorating that you don't need to fumble with smartphone apps or cloud storage - everything's right there on the device. Whether you're analyzing your club head speed, ball velocity, or tracking your progress in carry distance, the data's organized in an easy-to-access format.


The device's ability to display thorough metrics, including smash factor and total distance, makes it a valuable tool for serious practice sessions. With the mode and enter buttons, you can quickly switch between different viewing options, making it convenient to review your performance trends and identify areas for improvement.

Pros and Cons

After extensive testing in both indoor and outdoor environments, the PRGR Black Launch Monitor reveals a compelling mix of strengths and limitations that'll influence your buying decision. You'll appreciate its impressive accuracy within one mph for ball and swing speed, rivaling more expensive units like the Foresight GC2, while its straightforward setup and operation make it a breeze to use at the range or in your garage. The high-quality Doppler radar technology delivers consistent readings that help avoid ineffective practice habits.


The monitor's compact size and versatility across different sports definitely work in its favor, and you'll find its ability to measure club head speed without ball contact particularly useful for practice sessions. At just $229 price point, this launch monitor offers exceptional value compared to premium alternatives. However, you'll need to weigh these benefits against some notable drawbacks. The simplistic display might leave you wanting more, and you won't get advanced metrics like launch angle or spin rate. While the device stores up to 500 shots, you can't sync this data to your phone or analyze it through an app. The accuracy also takes a hit with mishits or when using range balls, and you'll need to be quite precise with the monitor's placement - exactly 4 1/2 feet behind the ball - to get reliable readings.

Value for Money Assessment

Considering its $229 price tag, you'll find remarkable value in the PRGR Black Launch Monitor, especially when comparing it to higher-end units costing thousands more. You're getting accuracy that rivals premium devices like Trackman, with measurements typically within +/- 1 MPH of the industry-leading Foresight GC2.


What you're paying for isn't just a budget-friendly alternative; you're getting a feature-rich device that'll measure crucial metrics like swing speed, ball speed, smash factor, and distances. The Doppler radar technology guarantees reliable readings, and you won't need to fuss with Wi-Fi connections or app downloads. The indoor and outdoor versatility makes it an ideal training companion wherever you practice. Plus, with storage for your last 500 swings, you can track your progress over time. The device's five button interface ensures simple operation for players of all skill levels.


While the distance calculations might not be perfect for players with unique launch conditions, you're still getting exceptional value for your investment. The included one-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee add peace of mind to your purchase. Given that it's manufactured in limited quantities and offers performance that punches well above its weight class, you'll want to grab one before they're gone.

PRGR Launch Monitor

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the PRGR Black Be Used to Measure Putting Speed and Distance?

You'll find that the PRGR Black isn't designed for putting measurements, as its Doppler radar technology requires higher ball speeds to generate accurate readings. While it's excellent for full shots and even partial swings, you'll need a specialized putting launch monitor to track your putting metrics. The device's minimum speed threshold is too high to capture the slower speeds of putts reliably.

Does Rain or Wet Weather Affect the Device's Performance and Readings?

Yes, rain and wet weather can considerably affect your launch monitor's performance. Since it uses Doppler radar technology, moisture can interfere with the signals and compromise reading accuracy. You'll want to keep your device protected from rain, as it's not designed to be water-resistant. For best results, use it indoors during wet weather, or wait for dry conditions when practicing outside.

How Long Does It Take for Measurements to Display After Each Shot?

While the exact display time isn't specified in official documentation, you'll find that measurements appear almost instantly after your shot, typically within 1-2 seconds. The LCD screen updates quickly to show your ball speed, swing speed, and distance calculations. Since the device uses Doppler radar technology, which processes data rapidly, you won't experience any noticeable delay between hitting your shot and seeing your results.

While the exact display time isn't specified in official documentation, you'll find that measurements appear almost instantly after your shot, typically within 1-2 seconds. The LCD screen updates quickly to show your ball speed, swing speed, and distance calculations. Since the device uses Doppler radar technology, which processes data rapidly, you won't experience any noticeable delay between hitting your shot and seeing your results.

While you can share the device among multiple users, there's no built-in way to separate individual stats. You'll need to manually record your data after each session, as the device stores up to 500 shots without distinguishing between users. If you're sharing with others, you might want to clear the memory between sessions or keep a separate logbook to track each person's measurements.

Is the Device Approved for Tournament Use by Golf Governing Bodies?

You'd have a better chance of finding Bigfoot on a golf course than getting a straight answer about this device's tournament approval! While many golfers use launch monitors for practice, there's no explicit approval from the R&A or USGA for tournament use. You'll need to check with specific tournament organizers, as rules can vary widely. Generally, electronic measuring devices face strict regulations during competitive play.

Conclusion

You'll find the PRGR Black pocket launch monitor offers impressive value for budget-conscious golfers, much like finding an eight-track player that still works perfectly. While it's not as feature-rich as premium units costing thousands more, you're getting reliable data for key metrics, decent battery life, and straightforward operation. Despite its basic interface and limited shot storage, it's a solid choice that'll help you understand your game better without breaking the bank.

Paul Liberatore

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.