SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor Review
We take a look at the SkyTrak+ launch monitor in greater detail and see how it stacks up versus the competition
The SkyTrak+ is a big step forward versus the prior model and continues to represent great value for money in an increasingly competitive space. The addition of more club data parameters and an enhanced simulator experience make it an appealing prospect, along with the portability and excellent app experience.
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Simple to use
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Increased data points and accuracy
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Excellent app experience
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Can play upwards of 100,000 virtual golf courses
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Access to the full feature suite requires an annual fee
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No carry case included
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SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor Review
For most golfers having a home simulator set-up is a pipe dream, largely down to the space required as well as the overall cost. Typically in golf technology and launch monitors, you tend to get what you pay for, although with the new SkyTrak+ it appears you get a little more for your money - hence why we chose it for Editor's Choice 2023.
The original SkyTrak Launch Monitor was released way back in 2014 and has popular among consumers looking for a cost-effective way to track their ball flight and get data on their shots. In fact, it stood out among its competitors as one of the best cheap golf launch monitors, coming it at a considerably lower cost to other radar-based options like the Full Swing Kit and Trackman 4.
Nine years on, the SkyTrak+ is powered by Rapsodo and features a new dual doppler radar system, which provides the user with important information such as clubhead speed, smash factor (how efficiently the ball is struck), spin and launch angle among others. The SkyTrak+ now offers additional club data points, including path and face angle. It also applies proprietary machine-learning algorithms to the data for even greater accuracy, making it comparable with the very best golf launch monitors. All these metrics are vital to understand how you are delivering the club and help you access the information needed to change your swing in order to play better and more consistent golf.
The SkyTrak+ continues to use a laser that shines on to the hitting area to denote where the ball needs to be positioned for it to be tracked. This can cause issues when hitting off grass and having to move the device around, so it remains more suited to use hitting off mats although the hitting area has been made 40 percent larger. The main display screen is really easy to interpret. The numbers at the bottom stand out and are color coded by how close they are to what the SkyTrak+ deems as optimum. On the right hand side there is a nifty graphic that show's the club's interaction with the ball at impact as well as a heat map down range of where your shots have finished.
Not only is the SkyTrak+ extremely lightweight and easily portable, the new camera system allows this device to be as accurate at the driving range as it is when used hitting into a net at home. The SkyTrak+ software, when synced with a tablet or computer, allows for the user to play upwards of 100,000 golf courses virtually, making those monotonous range sessions more interactive and purposeful. World-renowned courses such as Pebble Beach, Bandon Dunes and Torrey Pines are all available to play on the software, enabling you to make your practice sessions competitive with friends anywhere in the world.
Like with the prior model, access to the software does have to be purchased separately to the device if you want to reap the full benefits of the launch monitor, however the basic software is enough for those just using the device for fun. By paying the annual fee, which ranges from £89.95 to £179.95 depending on the plan, it would place the Sky Trak+ among some of the best golf simulator set-ups. Alongside playing virtual courses, there are various wedge tests and skills assessments that allow you to hit specific distances under pressure, emulating what it is like playing on a golf course by not hitting the same club or shot multiple times in a row.
The option of being able to work on your swing and game at home for a relatively affordable price is exactly what makes the SkyTrak+ launch monitor such an appealing prospect. Having crucial data as well as live ball flight on a tablet or even a projector really elevates the user experience and will certainly encourage more people to practise their game more regularly with the help of the latest technology. With a price tag of £3,095 or $3,005, the SkyTrak+ represents an appealing prospect given the level of features on offer and improvements made over the prior version.
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Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.
One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.
Joel's current What's In The Bag?
Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9°
Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15°
Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18°
Irons: Ping i230 4-UW
Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind
Putter: Evnroll ER2V
Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x
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