SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor Review

SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor Review

By Paul Liberatore

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You'll love the SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor's incredible value - it pairs dual Doppler radar with photometric tech to give you pro-level stats for $2,495, way less than the $20,000 competitors. It tracks over 20 metrics like ball speed, launch angle, and club data, and it's just as accurate as the premium systems (within 2 yards). While it works best indoors with its 40% larger hitting area, you only need 12 feet of space to set it up and about 6 hours for the first charge. It connects to all the popular golf sim software and lets you play on more than 100,000 virtual courses. That's just scratching the surface of what this game-changing device can do.

Key Features

SkyTrak+ combines dual Doppler radar with photometric cameras to deliver accuracy within 2 yards, matching premium alternatives at a fraction of cost.

The device provides comprehensive feedback on 20+ metrics including ball speed, launch angle, and club data for detailed shot analysis.

Compatible with major simulation software platforms, offering access to 100,000+ virtual golf courses and advanced practice features.

Indoor performance excels with a 40% larger hitting area, though outdoor use may be limited by sunlight affecting tracking.

At $2,495, it offers professional-grade launch monitor capabilities with flexible financing options starting at $120.97 monthly.

Key Features and Technology

The SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor packs a punch with its cutting-edge tech, combining a high-speed camera system and dual Doppler radar to give you tons of golf performance data. You'll get instant feedback on more than 20 key stats like ball speed, launch angle, backspin, and carry distance. The system's smart machine learning software crunches all this data to give you super accurate readings.


Whether you're hitting balls indoors or at the range, you'll love how portable this thing is. It's lightweight at just 1.7 pounds and about the size of a hardcover book, so you can easily take it anywhere. You'll need about 12 feet of space to set it up properly. The interface is super easy to use, making it a breeze to understand your stats, and the Shot Enhancer feature helps you dial in your game. Want more? Hook it up to compatible simulation software and you'll have access to over 100,000 virtual golf courses - you'll never run out of new places to play! Getting started is simple: just put the unit 18 inches from your ball, line it up with the red laser dot, and you're ready to start collecting data that'll transform your practice sessions.

Performance and Accuracy

The SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor gets within 2 yards of pro-grade systems like Trackman and FlightScope, but at a much lower price. It's got a dual Doppler radar that picks up all your club data - head speed, smash factor, face angle - while its camera system nails your ball measurements perfectly. Whether you're fixing a slice or working on your draw, you can count on what you're seeing. Plus, there's a cool Shot Score feature that breaks down 20-shot sequences with any club you choose.


The system keeps getting smarter thanks to machine learning, so each practice session is more accurate than the last. While it works best indoors, just keep in mind the outdoor readings might vary a bit. You'll get multiple camera angles of your shots - it's so detailed, your golf buddies might think you've got a pro coach hiding somewhere. And don't worry about hitting from outdoor mats - the upgraded cameras handle that just fine.


One of the best parts is the instant feedback you get to fix your shots on the spot. With regular software updates and testing from Golf Laboratories, you're getting readings that match up within 1-2% of the fancy launch monitors that cost five times more.

Software Integration

Golfers will love how easily SkyTrak+ connects to Windows PCs, iPads, and newer Android devices. It works great with popular golf sims like E6 Connect, The Golf Club, and World Golf Tour, so you've got plenty of options for practice and playing. If you're serious about improving your game, you'll appreciate how it pairs with teaching tools like Swing Catalyst. Just make sure your device has 5 GB of free space before you download it.


What makes this software really cool is how it shows you over 20 different stats about your swing. You'll need a decent PC to run the advanced features smoothly, but it's worth it to see everything from your club head speed to smash factor. The numbers are easy to read, and you can switch between different views whenever you want. The full-screen charts are especially helpful when you're diving deep into your stats.


Setting up the software is a breeze, whether you're tech-savvy or not. Since it responds quickly, you'll spend less time waiting and more time hitting balls - exactly what you want during practice.

Indoor Vs Outdoor Use

The SkyTrak+ really comes into its own when you're using it indoors, needing just a few feet of ball flight to capture accurate data through its photometric and Doppler radar tech. Thanks to its 40% larger hitting area, you won't have to stress as much about setup and alignment like you did with older models. You can pretty much set it up in any room, which makes those winter practice sessions a breeze. Plus, its 5-hour battery life means you won't have to cut your practice short.


Take it outside though, and it's a different ball game. While they market the SkyTrak+ as outdoor-friendly, you might hit some snags using it in the open. That perfect sunny day you'd normally love for golf? It's actually working against you here - the bright light can mess with the unit's shot tracking and make the red laser dot hard to see. If you're dead set on outdoor practice, you might want to check out the Mevo+ instead - its Doppler radar system handles sunshine way better. But here's the silver lining: if you're mainly planning to use your SkyTrak+ indoors (like most people do), you'll get reliable data and tons of great practice options.

Data Tracking and Analysis

SkyTrak+'s main appeal comes from its powerful data tracking, which combines dual Doppler radar with an improved photometric system to help you understand your game better. You'll get detailed insights into every shot - from ball speed and spin rate to launch angle and carry distance - with accuracy that's comparable to more expensive units. Just keep in mind that environmental conditions can affect sensor readings, so it's best to practice indoors or in controlled settings.


You'll love how easy it is to explore your performance metrics through the user-friendly interface. It uses color-coded indicators to quickly show if you're hitting ideal launch conditions. Whether you're working on your wedge shots or dialing in your driver, you can track your progress over time with detailed practice session histories. There's also a really useful mechanized bag mapping feature that helps you spot gaps in your club performance. Just remember there's an annual subscription fee of $100-$200 to access the advanced features.


While it won't give you quite as much club data as the top-end launch monitors, SkyTrak+'s machine-learning algorithms still deliver reliable numbers. Think of it like setting up for an important putt - getting the setup and ball placement right is key for accurate readings.

Setup and Operation

To get your SkyTrak+ ready, start by giving it a full 6-hour charge and installing the app on your device. After downloading the software, you'll need to register using the ESN number and choose how you want to connect - Direct Mode is the easiest way to start.


For the best accuracy, here's how to set it up properly:

  • Line up the unit parallel to where you're hitting, making sure it's level with your hitting surface
  • Look for the red laser dot - this shows you where to place your ball
  • Use alignment sticks to double-check the unit is facing the right way
  • Adjust the feet on the protective case to get the height just right

You've got several ways to connect your SkyTrak+: use Direct Mode's built-in Wi-Fi, switch to Network Mode if you need internet access, or plug it straight into your PC with USB. Don't worry too much about perfect placement outdoors - the hitting area is 40% larger than previous models, so you've got more room to work with. Plus, the red dot system helps you line up every shot accurately.

Value for Money

The SkyTrak+ packs incredible value at $2,495, competing head-to-head with launch monitors that'll cost you nearly ten times more. If you're investing in golf tech, you'll love that it tracks over 20 data points, from club head speed to face angle and smash factor - matching pricier professional units within 2 yards. For about what you'd spend on premium clubs, you'll get tour-level accuracy that'll transform your practice sessions.


Sure, there's a yearly subscription fee for all the features, but the financing options make it easy on your wallet at just $120.97 monthly with 0% APR. You're getting the best of both worlds - photometric and dual-Doppler radar tech - without giving your spouse a heart attack. Stack it up against something like the FlightScope Mevo+, and the SkyTrak+ really shines with its broad software compatibility and grab-and-go design. Whether you're hitting balls indoors or out, you're playing with the same tech that used to be exclusive to tour pros and fancy golf facilities.

SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor Review

Comparison With Competitors

Experienced golfers will spot how the SkyTrak+ stands out from its rivals with its clever mix of photometric and doppler radar tech. When you're shopping for launch monitors in this price range, you'll find the SkyTrak+ delivers amazing value with accuracy that's on par with units that cost up to $20,000.


The SkyTrak+ outperforms its competition in several key areas:

  • It combines high-speed cameras with doppler radar to give you spot-on ball and club data
  • You'll get access to more than 100,000 golf courses through various simulation platforms, while other brands limit your course options
  • It performs great outdoors when used with mats - something cheaper options just can't match
  • You'll get over 20 different data points, including cool features like scatter factor and Shot Optimizer

The interface hits the sweet spot between advanced and easy-to-use, unlike other monitors that'll overwhelm you with unnecessary complexity. You can set it up quickly thanks to its laser-guided positioning system, making it much more convenient than bulkier units that need lots of tweaking. If you're stuck choosing between different launch monitors, you can't go wrong with the SkyTrak+'s versatility and accuracy.

Simulation and Practice Options

Today's practice sessions with the SkyTrak+ are more immersive than ever, thanks to its wide range of simulation features and practice options. You'll see every detail of your swing through the dual Doppler radar system, while high-speed photometric cameras track your ball's flight with amazing accuracy.


The versatile 3D practice area comes with shot tracer technology that lets you break down every part of your game. Want to keep things interesting? The randomizer throws real-course scenarios at you, and you can tweak wind and elevation settings to match conditions on your favorite course. One of the best features is the shot enhancer, which looks at 20 shots with any club to show you how you typically perform. You'll get quick feedback with color-coded indicators for launch angle, spin rate, and descent angle - making it super easy to dial in your technique. Whether you're sharpening your short game or trying to crush it with your driver, the SkyTrak+ has all the practice tools you need.

SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Battery Last on a Full Charge?

You'll get a solid 5 hours of battery life from a single charge on your SkyTrak Plus, which is enough to complete a full practice session without interruption. While you're hitting balls, the USB-C charging capability lets you quickly top up the battery if needed. For ideal battery health, you'll want to avoid letting it drain completely, and it's best to keep it plugged in during extended indoor sessions.

Is the Skytrak+ Water-Resistant for Use in Light Rain?

No, your SkyTrak+ isn't water-resistant and shouldn't be used in any rain, even light drizzle. Water exposure can seriously damage the system's electronics and potentially cause electric shock. The high-speed cameras and sensitive photometric technology inside are particularly vulnerable to moisture damage. If your SkyTrak+ gets wet, it's not serviceable, and water damage isn't covered under warranty, so you'll need to use it in dry conditions only.

What Is the Minimum Space Requirement for Optimal Performance?

Did you know that 85% of golfers perform better with proper spacing? For peak performance, you'll need an 18-foot length, 15-foot width, and 10-foot height in your setup space. While you can technically operate in a smaller area (minimum 12' x 10' x 8.5'), you'll want those recommended dimensions to guarantee comfortable swings, proper ball flight tracking, and enough room for your screen to flex naturally upon impact.

Can Multiple Users Create Separate Profiles on One Device?

You'll need separate SkyTrak accounts to manage individual data on one device, as there's no built-in multi-user profile system. While you can switch between users by logging in and out, each person needs their own SkyGolf360 plan ($19.99/year) to sync their data. For now, you can use different sessions to track multiple users' data, though it's not as seamless as having dedicated profiles.

Does the Unit Require Annual Calibration or Professional Maintenance?

Want to know the best part about maintaining your unit? You won't need annual professional calibration! The device primarily relies on proper alignment using built-in laser beams, which you can easily manage yourself. While routine maintenance includes simple cleaning with a damp cloth and protecting it from moisture, there's no requirement for yearly professional servicing unless your unit's damaged or malfunctioning. Just keep it clean, dry, and properly aligned.

Conclusion

You can't find a better launch monitor for the price than the SkyTrak+. While it isn't perfect - it sometimes acts up outdoors and has a few software quirks - you're getting pro-level accuracy and amazing features that'll blow you away. If you're a serious golfer who wants to transform your practice sessions without breaking the bank, the SkyTrak+ offers incredible value. Once you start using it, you'll wonder how you ever practiced without it.

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.