Best Tracking Technology for Your Golf Simulator by Room Size
Introduction
When planning a golf simulator, the dimensions of your room—especially depth—play a crucial role in determining the best tracking technology. The spacing between the ball and screen, plus clearance behind for your swing, influences tracking accuracy and setup efficiency. This guide breaks down the most effective tracking options for three typical UK room depths:
- Under 4.3 m
- 4.3 m to 5.5 m
- Over 5.5 m
Under 4.3 m Room Depth: Photometric Camera Systems
Placement:
- Positioned beside the ball, just outside the swing path.
Why It Works Best:
- Photometric systems capture high-speed images at the moment of impact, measuring metrics like ball speed, spin, and launch angle. Since they don’t need significant ball flight space, they’re ideal for tight indoor environments where radar tracking struggles.
Pros:
- Excellent accuracy in small gyms, garages, or spare rooms.
- Compact setup with simple calibration.
Cons:
- Less reliable outdoors in varied light conditions.
- Requires consistent ball placement.
4.3 m to 5.5 m Room Depth: Hybrid Camera + Radar or Photometric Units
Placement:
- Hybrids: approximately 2 m behind the golfer.
- Photometric: beside the ball.
Why It Works Best:
- Medium-depth rooms offer the versatility of hybrid systems—combining camera and radar to deliver comprehensive swing analysis and ball flight data. This balance suits many home simulators with modest space.
Pros:
- Rich data combining ball and club insights.
- Accurate carry distance and shot shape analysis.
- Suitable for medium-sized home or garden rooms.
Cons:
- Requires more behind-the-ball clearance.
- Setup is subtly more complex.
Over 5.5 m Room Depth: Radar-Based Systems
Placement:
- Positioned about 2 m behind the golfer, with at least 2.5–3 m of ball flight before the screen.
Why It Works Best:
- Radar units track the full ball flight path, capturing precise 3D metrics. The generous depth ensures uninterrupted tracking—ideal for large home bays or outdoor simulators.
Pros:
- Exceptional accuracy and data depth.
- Performs well indoors and outdoors.
Cons:
- Requires substantial space.
- Higher price point relative to camera units.
Space Guidelines
- General UK simulator rooms often measure approximately 4 m width × 6 m depth, with ceiling heights just above 3 m
- Standard minimum simulator room: 3 m length (depth), 3 m width, 3 m height provides adequate swing space.
- Ceiling heights: aim for 2.6‑2.8 m, with 3 m ideal—especially for full swings and taller users .
- Typical home simulator room: at least 3 m width, 4.8 m–5 m depth, and 2.5 m–3 m height.
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Depth recommendations:
- 10–12 ft (3–3.6 m) between tee and screen minimum-for short game or compact setups.
- 15–18 ft (4.6–5.5 m) preferred for full swings and accurate tracking.
- Ideal depth: 18 ft (~5.5 m)—allowing ~3 m front flight, 2 m swing clearance, and buffer behind.
- UK standards state minimum spaces of ~3 m × 3 m, but more comfort and tech support begin beyond 4 m depth,
Quick Comparison Table
| Room Depth (Approx) | Best Tracking Type | Placement | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 4.3 m | Photometric camera systems | Beside the ball | Compact spaces, compact garages |
| 4.3 m–5.5 m | Hybrid (camera + radar) or camera-only | ~2 m behind (hybrids) or beside ball | Medium-sized rooms |
| Over 5.5 m | Radar systems | ~2 m behind + 2.5–3 m flight | Large indoor bays, outdoor setups |
Conclusion
Your room’s depth is the key driver in selecting the best tracking system for your golf simulator:
- Small spaces? Choose a compact photometric system.
- Medium rooms? Hybrids offer rich data without needing a pro-level bay.
- Spacious areas? Radar systems deliver unmatched accuracy and full flight tracking.
At VirtuGolf, we help UK golfers match their space with the ideal tracking system—whether compact, medium, or spacious. Check out our simulator calculator and builder or contact us for personalised recommendations.