If there’s one thing I’ve always wanted more than anything else when it comes to golf, it’s an in-home simulator. My wife isn’t going to let that happen anytime soon, but I just got my hands on the next best thing. It’s the SkyTrak+ launch monitor.
The original SkyTrak launch monitor came out in 2014. It was received quite well by golfers because of its reasonable price and shot tracking capabilities. One of the most popular launch monitors of its era, the original SkyTrak sold more than 70,000 units.
Fast forward nine years and the second iteration is a major upgrade that golfers are already calling the best launch monitor of 2024.
Let’s have a closer look at why the all-new SkyTrak+ is creating such a buzz.
Key Features
Dual doppler radar precisely measures key data points on every shot.
Improved photometric camera system provides increased accuracy for all metrics.
More than 100,000 golf courses can be played when the unit is synced with a tablet or computer.
Design and Technology
When it comes to design and tech, there’s plenty to talk about with the SkyTrak+.
What stands out right away is this launch monitor’s shot tracking capability. Dual doppler radar and a state-of-the-art photometric camera system provide golfers unparalleled shot tracking data on every shot. This technology has been tested both indoors and outdoors and has proven highly accurate.
This SkyTrak+ also measures a lot more metrics than the 2014 version. They include:
- Ball speed
- Launch Angle
- Backspin
- Sidespin
- Carry Distance
- Rollout Distance
- Total Distance
- Distance Offline
- Clubhead Speed
- Angle of descent
- 3-D Flight Path
- Smash Factor
- Club Path
- Face Angle
- Face to Path
- Face to Target.
That’s more metrics than any launch monitor I’ve ever seen. And the best part is all this information is displayed on a new and improved Shot Optimizer interface that allows you compare your data to what’s optimal.
You can even compare your shots to those of the best players in the world. This is made possible by the red, yellow, and green scoring system.
Also included with the Shot Optimizer are tutorials from Golf Digest #22 teacher, Nick Clearwater. Not only will these tutorials help you learn how to use the SkyTrak+, you’ll receive world-class instruction at the same time.
Shot Scoring helps you track your progress over time, and identify strengths and weaknesses in your game. All you need to do is hit 20 shots with each club to establish your baseline.
The SkyTrak+’s hitting area is 40% larger than the previous model. That means you won’t have to constantly reposition the launch monitor if you’re hitting balls off grass.
Another convenience of the SkyTrak+ is that it doesn’t require the use of special balls or stickers on your club.
And how about the fact that you can play more than 100,000 courses from the comfort of your home?
As you can see, the technological capabilities and design features of the SkyTrak+ are plenty to get excited about.
SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor
The SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor is a cutting-edge golf simulation device designed to provide accurate and comprehensive data on golf swings. Building on the success of the original SkyTrak, the SkyTrak+ offers enhanced features such as dual Doppler radar and an improved photometric camera system, significantly improving its accuracy and reliability. This device captures detailed ball and club data, including ball speed, launch angle, spin rates, and club head speed, making it an invaluable tool for golfers looking to improve their game. With its wireless and portable design, the SkyTrak+ allows for seamless integration with various golf simulation software, enabling users to practice and play on renowned golf courses from the comfort of their homes.
PROS
- Price point is considerably lower than other, similar launch monitors.
- Number of measurable data points far exceeds other launch monitors.
- Access to more than 100,000 courses is simply amazing.
CONS
- Cost may not be affordable for golfers on a tight budget.
- You may need to occasionally move the launch monitor if you’re hitting off grass and taking divots.
- Software upgrades are required to access all functions and capabilities.
Our Experience
I tried the SkyTrak+ out for the first time today. I was so excited about it, I couldn’t wait to write this review.
I was blown away by how much information this launch monitor gives you about your swing and ball flight. Having tried just about every launch monitor on the market, this one measures by far the most data points.
Setup was extremely easy. It was just a matter of minutes from when I took the unit out of the box to the time I was hitting balls.
The number of functions is incredible. Everything from Shot Scoring to interactive instructional tutorials sends the SkyTrak+ over the top.
I can’t wait to use the SkyTrak+ more and more as I try to go from a 19 to a 9 handicap this year on my Road to Scratch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor?
The SkyTrak+ is extremely accurate, providing realistic ball flight data that is virtually indistinguishable from leading commercial launch monitors. It uses a dual Doppler radar system combined with an improved high-speed photometric camera system to deliver highly accurate and reliable ball tracking data both indoors and outdoors.
What space is required to use the SkyTrak+?
The SkyTrak+ requires enough space to swing your club comfortably and safely. It measures the first few feet of ball flight, so as long as you have adequate room to swing, you can get accurate data.
What data does the SkyTrak+ provide?
The SkyTrak+ provides detailed data including ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, and much more. The addition of dual Doppler radar also provides key club data such as club head speed, face alignment, and smash factor to help golfers improve their game.
What software is compatible with the SkyTrak+?
The SkyTrak+ is compatible with a variety of golf simulation software including E6 Connect, The Golf Club 2019, Creative Golf 3D, and World Golf Tour by Topgolf. It provides access to over 100,000 courses worldwide.
What's included with the SkyTrak+?
The SkyTrak+ package includes the launch monitor, choice of software, USB Type-C charging, and 5GHz WiFi connectivity. It does not require special balls or stickers on clubs.
Conclusion
Every year, launch monitors continue to get more and more advanced. And they do, they become more expensive. The SkyTrac+ outdoes the competition on both these fronts. Not only does it give you more information, it also costs less. If you’re thinking about adding a launch monitor to your golf arsenal, I highly suggest considering the SkyTrak+. I have a sneaky suspicion you’ll be just as excited about it as I am.
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.
