If you’ve been shopping for a golf launch monitor, chances are you’ve heard names like TrackMan, Foresight, and SkyTrak. These heavy hitters get most of the attention, and for good reason. But there’s a growing wave of newer and lesser-known brands pushing the boundaries of what launch monitors can do.
From commercial simulators with massive realism to innovative devices you’ve never heard of, these are the up-and-coming systems that deserve a closer look.
Uneekor
Uneekor has quietly become one of the most respected names in the serious indoor simulator world. Their systems are ceiling-mounted and camera-based, offering high-speed data capture without requiring radar or massive space behind the ball.
Popular models:
- QED ($7,000–$9,000): Accurate and fast with full club and ball data. Requires specific marked balls.
- EYE XO ($10,000+): Tracks both ball and club data without marked balls. More expensive but more flexible.
- EYE MINI ($4,500): A newer portable version with high-end accuracy and compact form factor.
Strengths:
- Excellent accuracy indoors
- Deep club and ball data
- Compatible with third-party simulator software (GSPro, TGC 2019, E6)
- Strong community support and growing user base
Subscription info:
Software packages are required for full simulator features, but no annual fees are mandatory unless you want advanced analytics or cloud features.
GolfJoy
GolfJoy is starting to gain attention for offering compact, budget-conscious radar-based launch monitors with promising results. It’s still early days, but their technology aims to bring mid-tier performance at a more accessible price.
Popular models:
- GolfJoy GDS Plus (approx. $700): A small radar device with app-based readouts. Currently offers core metrics like ball speed, carry distance, launch angle, and spin estimates.
Strengths:
- Very affordable for the feature set
- Works indoors and outdoors
- App connectivity with video replay tools
- Real-time display on phone or tablet
Subscription info:
Current software is free to use, though future premium analytics may be added down the line.
Worth noting: GolfJoy is still building a user base and broader simulator compatibility is limited compared to Mevo+ or SkyTrak, but the value is hard to ignore.
Square
Square might be one of the most under-the-radar launch monitor companies on the market. Their focus is on simplicity, portability, and affordability, aiming to compete in the same space as Rapsodo and Swing Caddie.
Popular models:
- Square ONE (not widely available in the US yet): Combines radar and video analysis in a sleek, phone-sized unit. Has received positive early reviews in Asia and Europe.
Strengths:
- Designed for quick range sessions
- Video and radar blended feedback
- Companion app includes swing path and tempo training
Subscription info:
Currently free, but future features may move behind a paywall depending on region and app development.
Worth noting: Distribution in North America is limited, but it’s a brand to watch if they gain traction internationally.
Golfzon
Golfzon is better known in South Korea and commercial simulator settings, but their technology is starting to gain attention in the home simulator market. They offer extremely realistic sim environments, club data tracking, and unique features like auto-teeing systems.
Popular systems:
- Golfzon Vision: Installed in hundreds of indoor golf facilities, especially in Asia and growing parts of the US.
- Wave ($3,900+): A portable consumer launch monitor aimed at home simulator users, offering radar and video features in one platform.
Strengths:
- Stunning graphics and course visuals
- Dual sensors for ball and club tracking
- Online play and competitive modes
- Strong integration with Golfzon’s ecosystem
Subscription info:
Sim packages and cloud-based features come with annual fees for full functionality. Their premium sim software is proprietary and less open than GSPro or E6.
Full Swing KIT
While Full Swing is best known for their commercial simulators seen in golf studios and on TV, their portable KIT launch monitor is an underrated consumer option.
Full Swing KIT ($4,999)
- Radar-based monitor used by Tiger Woods
- Offers 16 points of club and ball data
- Includes video recording and iOS app control
- Strong outdoor performance, reliable for high-level practice
Strengths:
- Backed by elite athletes
- Simple setup and powerful data
- Works great on the range
- Offers app-based video and data feedback
Subscription info:
Free to use with basic data, but enhanced app tools and video library management require a paid subscription (around $99/year).
ProTee United
This is a brand with a niche but growing fanbase in the sim community. Known mostly for their sim software integration, ProTee also offers hardware that works well with GSPro and other platforms.
Popular product:
- ProTee VX: Overhead-mounted, camera-based monitor for indoor use. Competitively priced for the amount of data provided.
Strengths:
- Strong software compatibility
- Budget-friendly alternative to Uneekor or GC3
- Good accuracy for the price
Subscription info:
No required ongoing fees for most of the data, but software platforms may charge for simulator use.
Other brands to keep on your radar
- Exputt RG: A putting-only simulator that tracks path, speed, and face angle on a putting mat with a mounted camera. Fantastic for short game practice.
- Ernest Sports ESB1: A Bluetooth-enabled radar unit with solid basic metrics and budget pricing.
- OKON Golf: Newer brand from Korea trying to enter the North American space with compact, affordable tracking solutions.
Final thoughts
If you’re in the market for a launch monitor, it pays to look beyond the big three. Brands like Uneekor, Golfzon, and GolfJoy are offering serious innovation and performance across a range of price points. Whether you want a powerful home sim, a quick data tool for the range, or just something new to explore, these underrated systems might surprise you.
Let’s hear from you
Have you tried any of these up-and-coming launch monitors? Are there other hidden gems we should know about? Drop a comment and tell us which ones have impressed you or are on your wishlist.
1 Comment
What about the Garman product