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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

Customers rate us 4.8/5 based on 2441 reviews.

Let customers speak for us

from 2441 reviews

Great projector!

David G.
BenQ AK700ST 4K Golf Simulator Projector
Love the plug and play

You cant beat playing without another pc and the display looks great

Johnson C.
Garmin Approach R50 Launch Monitor
Affordable Accuracy

I've wanted a personal launch monitor for a long time and started off with budget options. While these previous devices were better than just hitting into a net, I knew the data was inaccurate.

While I still can't justify spending $2000 for a LM that would provide reliable accuracy, but at $700 and after a good deal or research, the Rapsodo MLM2 Pro became an easy choice to get to that same level.

In the few weeks I've owned MLM2, I've put it through 16 hours, 38 sessions, and 1700 shots. Some of those sessions were outdoors where I could see the ball flight. The information it provides not only matches what higher-end LMs have provided but is consistent with what I'm seeing from live ball flight as well. Not once have I thought "those numbers can't be right".

The MLM2 may not help me drop my HC significantly, but it does reduce the chance of me working on swing changes due to inaccurate LM data.

Jon M.
Rapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor & Simulator
SquareGolf monitor

Having a great time using the SquareGolf monitor. Have very little to criticize the monitor. It’s not perfect but for the price it’s all worth it.

Ronald C.
Rain or Shine Golf

Projector works great. Easy to set up!

Jerry W.
Rain or Shine Golf
So Fun

I love the golf simulation, playing the players course as we speak.

Jaymes H.
GCQuad Launch Monitor by Foresight
Perfect Accuracy

There is a reason all the tour players use this. Its done wonders for my game

Phillip K.
GCQuad Launch Monitor by Foresight
Rain or Shine Golf

This is the perfect place to go when. you need anything for your golf simulator. The service is excellent and products are shipped quickly.

Mark O.
Landing Pad Turf and Putting Green

Works perfectly either way BenQ projector

Craig R.
SwingShield Projector Floor Mount Enclosure
Retractable simulator

Awesome setup! Looking forward to many hours of golf

Jerry W.
HomeCourse Retractable Golf Simulator Enclosure
Excellent Value

Unreal value for being under $1k. I am very pleased with the data accuracy.

Shawn F.
Square Golf Launch Monitor
new simulator for home use

i love my new indoor simulator which i installed in the last few weeks. i use it every day and my wife asked me when the enjoyment and fun will scale back. i tell her i love it and hope to continue using it.

Gerald S.
Golf Simulator Projector Ceiling Mount
Protee vx

Loving my protee vx. Rain or shine was great to work with on this purchase!

Daryl N.
ProTee VX Launch Monitor
It’s a great investment

I bought the 8X10 diy enclosure on sale for $1k. Even with the extra $100 in EMT I still saved hundreds over everybody else. It’s holding up really well. The screen had just a little too much bounce back for my liking. But a moving blanket behind it solved that real quick. From start to finish, it took me about an hour to assemble it by myself. Tweaks and adjustments took another 20 minutes or so. I’m super happy with it overall. Picture shows up great.

Donald H.
simDIY® Golf Simulator Enclosure Kit
4x9

Very please with quality, a bit pricey but you get what you pay for.

Jose V.
Fiberbuilt Launch Monitor Studio Golf Mat - 4' x 9' Center Hitting