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Best Golf Simulator Projectors - Short Throw Projector Guide

We get asked all the time, "What is the best projector for Golf Simulators like SkyTrak or OptiShot?" The projector you decide to go with is indeed a very important decision in creating your dream home golf simulator setup.

The issue is, reading projector specification sheets can be extremely confusing for someone who has never used a projector before. In this guide, we will provide our top golf simulator projector recommendations and help point out key features to look for in your golf simulator projector.

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Golf Simulator Projector - Key Features To Consider

Projector Lumens

Projector Lumens

Lumens determines the brightness of the image your projector displays. The brighter your room is, the more important it is to have a high lumens projector. 

As a general rule of thumb, you can get by in dark rooms with lumens around 3000+ but we typically recommend getting a projector above 4000 lumens for the best golf simulation experience.

Throw Ratio

Throw Ratio

Throw ratio refers to the distance the projector is from the screen versus how diagonally wide the screen is. If you do not want your shadow showing up on your hitting screen, you will need what is called a short throw or ultra-short throw projector which range anywhere between 0.3:1 to 1:1.

To find the optimal throw ratio, you will divide the distance from your projector to your screen by the diagonal width of your screen. As an example, if your screen is 10 feet wide and your projector is 5 feet away from the screen, your optimal throw ratio is 0.5:1 (5 feet / 10 feet).

Aspect Ratio

Aspect Ratio

Aspect ratio and resolution tend to go hand-in-hand. To put it simply, aspect ratio refers to the shape the image will take on the screen or the ratio between the width and height of the image.

Most commonly, you will see the following aspect ratios & resolutions:

  • 4:3 (XGA & SXGA)
  • 16:10 (WXGA & WUXGA)
  • 16:9 (Standard HDTV, 1080p)

Most of our products are designed to be optimal for 4:3 projection, in order for the bay to be tall enough to catch wedge shots and higher lofted clubs.

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Image Resolution

Image Resolution

Resolution refers to the number of pixels inside the image. The more pixels, the higher the image quality.

Important note: We would recommend trying to match the resolution of your computer with the resolution of your projector. Your projector will never be able to project a higher resolution image than your computer is capable of! 

HDMI Cable

HDMI Connectivity

HDMI Connectivity

A final feature to make sure your projector has is the necessary HDMI Input. Almost all new projectors have this, but it is necessary to work with any of our golf simulators.

Same with the resolution comments above, you will want to select an HDMI output that is compatible with both your PC and your projector. The final resolution is the least common denominator of all of these parts.

There are even some wireless HDMI options out there, but we recommend hard-wiring for the best possible results.

 

Golf Simulator Projectors - Our Top Picks

Ok, you've stuck with us through the boring parts, now lets get into our favorites. After TONS of testing, we have selected our best performing projectors for golf simulation.


Best Value Golf Simulator Projector

Optoma Short Throw Golf Simulator Projector 4000 Lumen - Rain or Shine Golf

Best Value Golf Simulator Projector

At HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) resolution, Optoma EH412 is our pick for Best Projector for Golf Simulators. With this projector, you get a bright 4,200 lumens HD quality image that allows for a life-like golf simulator experience.

With a 4:3 aspect ratio, this Optoma Projector fits perfectly with the SwingBay Golf Simulator Enclosure. The SwingBay screen is specifically sized to fit a 4:3 projection so the Optoma EH200ST projection perfectly matches this screen.

  • 4,200 Lumens for a bright image
  • 0.49:1 Throw Ratio
  • HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) resolution
  • HDMI Connectivity
Shop Optoma 4000 lumen

Voted Best Value By Indoor Golf Experts

Best Overall Golf Simulator Projector

BenQ TK700STI 4K Short Throw Projector - Rain or Shine Golf

Best Overall Golf Simulator Projector

BenQ TK700STI takes the prize for best in show!

Choosing a projector for your golf simulator/home theater can be a very daunting task with all of the possible options. Take the guess-work out knowing that we have done the legwork to select a Full HD 4K option that is specifically designed for use with golf simulators.

With 4K high definition output, high contrast, and high lumens, this projector will provide you with a crisp and bright image that is sure to last for longer than most other options.

Shop BenQ 4K Projectors

For Those Who Want The Best

Best Low Cost Projector

Best Low Cost Projector

Our Optoma EH200ST gets the nod in this category.

Our overall best-selling projector, this model from Optoma has been time tested and proven its worth to thousands of our customers. The below features cement it in our category of excellent value without breaking the bank.

  • 3000 Lumens for a bright image
  • 0.49:1 Throw Ratio
  • HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) resolution
  • HDMI Connectivity
Shop Optoma EH200ST

Excellent Low-Cost Option For You

Best Golf Simulator Projector Mounts

SwingShield Projector Floor Mount Enclosure - Rain or Shine Golf

SwingShield Floor Mount

  • The Floor Mount Enclosure fits most projectors.
  • Easy and quick to assemble.
  • Eliminates holes in the ceiling and wires overhead.
  • Turf-Covered ramp protects your projector.
  • Extreme Durability
Shop SwingShield
Golf Simulator Projector Ceiling Mount - Rain or Shine Golf

Ceiling Mount For Projector

  • Ceiling Mount is highly adjustable
  • Quick and easy to assemble.
  • Overhead mount keeps floor open and clear of wires.
  • Universal Mount fits almost every projector.
Shop Our Ceiling Mount

Summary: Best Golf Simulator Projectors

In conclusion, choosing the right golf simulator projector is essential for an immersive and realistic experience. By considering factors such as image quality, brightness, and compatibility, you can ensure that every swing feels as if you're on the actual course.

With our guide as your trusted resource, you're now equipped to make an informed decision and elevate your golf simulator setup to the next level. Get ready to tee off with unparalleled visuals and enjoy countless hours of virtual golfing enjoyment.

Now that you know all the ins and outs of projectors, lets find the right golf simulator for you!

Find The Right Golf Simulator For You

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SwingTurf Golf Hitting Mat
Stephen R.
Lots of cushion

I’m not th best golfer, so when I miss and chunk it//there is lots of cushion and I never feel it

SwingTurf Golf Hitting Mat
Garmin Approach® R10 Launch Monitor & Simulator
Chris W.
Great price and fast shipping!

Everything was great

Garmin Approach® R10 Launch Monitor & Simulator
PrimePutt Tour-Quality Indoor Putting Mat
Brian P.
Great putting mat

Product is great quality, Highly recommend it for indoor practice.

PrimePutt Tour-Quality Indoor Putting Mat
Full Swing KIT Launch Monitor
Robert H.
Awesome service

Fast shipping and amazing service. Every time I’ve ordered with Rain or Shine has been an awesome experience. Haven’t been able to get the Full Swing LM on the range yet but expectations are high from seeing other user’s reviews.

Full Swing KIT Launch Monitor
SkyTrak+ SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
Jim
Well Done

All of the people I talked with from Rain or Shine, from ordering to shipping and after receiving support including setup and helpful suggestions on how to work with the third party software fad been outstanding.
Great group supporting a great
product.

SkyTrak+ SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
SwingTurf Golf Hitting Mat
Garrett H.
SwingTurf Golf Mat

The mat is really nice. It's very comfortable and with enough give and squish to make it feel pretty realistic. You can definitely tell when you've chunked a shot vs hitting it clean. I was hesitant about spending nearly $600 on a mat, but I'm really glad that I did. Can't wait to get my practice in and start shooting in the 80s!

SwingTurf Golf Hitting Mat
SkyTrak+ SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
Robert S.
Shipped fast and easy to follow instructions

Shipped fast and easy to follow instructions. Simulator works great.

SkyTrak+ SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
SkyTrak+ SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
Bud K.
Sky Trak with Swing Bay

Talked with Oliver and he handled all my questions. Expected delivery in a week and it came the next day. Set up was easy as I used YouTube video instructions. Very Happy with it and it seems very accurate. Only thing now I need is to fix my game.

SkyTrak+ SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
Uneekor EYE MINI Launch Monitor
Dominique D.
Unremitting mini

Amazing! Huge upgrade from my previous 2 launch monitors. Quicker response…I use it with TGC 2019 as a simulator…the putting is as good as anywhere I have played indoors, shot tracking is quick and accurate. HUGE UPGRADE! Highly recommend this device!

Uneekor EYE MINI Launch Monitor
Bushnell Launch Pro Launch Monitor
Tony V.
Service Knowledge Personal

I was in the beginning stages of my golf build and Brett guided me thru a lot of unknowns for me. I appreciate all the help that was given especially in this society in which we live in now where customer service is a thing of the past

Bushnell Launch Pro Launch Monitor
SwingBay Golf Simulator Screen & Enclosure
Tom M.
Great turnaround time

SKyTrak is fun to use

SwingBay Golf Simulator Screen & Enclosure
FlightScope Mevo+ SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
Tom M.
Great turnaround time

Mevo+ is fun to use

FlightScope Mevo+ SwingBay Golf Simulator Package
SwingBay Golf Simulator Screen & Enclosure
Andrew M.
Great service

I love my setup, and appreciate the high level of customer service the team showed both before and after my purchase.

SwingBay Golf Simulator Screen & Enclosure
SkyTrak+ Practice Golf Simulator
HOLY M.
Best training course i have ever seen

I really like all the products on your site. I got people who talk about you and one other website ( name livgolfclub.com ) I really appreciate your works. I will probably be getting some in 2 months for personal reasons , I'm sure the fun from your products would be awesome

SkyTrak+ Practice Golf Simulator
SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor
Brian W.
Excellent all the way around

Great product selection with great technical support.

SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor