For over a decade, SkyTrak has been one of the most popular companies in the golf launch monitor space.

When the original SkyTrak launched, it brought commercial-level ball data to golfers for a fraction of the cost and home simulation to the masses. 

Then the SkyTrak+ pushed things further with club data, faster processing, and a more robust overall experience.

Now we have the SkyTrak ST MAX - and a lot of golfers are asking the same question:What exactly is different?

Here’s the basic answer:

The SkyTrak ST MAX is a refinement of the SkyTrak+, but not a leap forward. There are two new main features: Swing Speed Training and an upgraded USB-C port.

Additionally, the price has gone up. The ST MAX now lists for $2,995, and at the time this article was written, SkyTrak has officially discontinued the SkyTrak+ model.

In this article, I’m going to break down the upgrades and the core features of SkyTrak that remain.

When a new launch monitor arrives, golfers expect three things:

1. Better accuracy

2. More data

3. New software that improves practice or simulation

The ST MAX gives you almost the exact same performance as the SkyTrak+.

You’re getting:

• The same ball-flight engine

• The same club data

• The same simulation options

• The same camera + radar system

So if the performance hasn’t changed, here’s what has changed.

Let’s walk through it step by step.

The module includes a long-drive-style practice range and a full dashboard showing:

• Club speed

• Ball speed

• Smash factor

• Carry distance

• Peak attempts vs. baseline swings

This is a meaningful addition because speed training has exploded in popularity in recent years. We wrote this guide on how to do it properly.

However, the new Speed Training module is exclusive to the ST MAX, and SkyTrak has not announced plans to bring it to the ST+.

In short, the core performance of the SkyTrak Max is identical to the SkyTrak+. 

You get the same ball and clubhead data from dual Doppler radar, the same reduced shot delay, and the same software ecosystem with shot optimizer, skills assessments, wedge matrix, and full simulation support. 

If you loved the SkyTrak+ experience, that entire foundation carries over unchanged.

You can read our full review of the SkyTrak+ here, but here are some of the key takeaways.

SkyTrak+ provides a full suite of ball metrics using its hybrid camera + radar system, including:

SkyTrak+ was SkyTrak’s first unit to add club measurement, and the ST Max uses the exact same engine. You get:

These are all measured without stickers or special balls, which is one of the product's strengths.

SkyTrak+ increased the hitting zone by roughly 40% and reduced the shot delay to 1–2 seconds over the original model. These improvements carry over directly into the ST Max.

• Easier ball placement thanks to a larger capture zone

• Significantly shorter delay vs. the original 2014 SkyTrak

SkyTrak has built one of the best game-improvement platforms over the last decade. And it’s even better with the infusion of Golftec’s knowledge base. 

Both units support:

SkyTrak has built one of the best game-improvement platforms over the last decade. And it’s even better with the infusion of Golftec’s knowledge base. 

Both units support:

• Shot Optimizer (spin, launch, descent benchmarking)

• Wedge Matrix

• Bag Mapping

• Player Skills Assessment

• New range environments and shot-shaping challenges

Both devices offer identical simulation access to course packs from Foresight and Trackman.

This entire software suite is powered by subscription (Essential Membership + optional Course Play add-on), and none of it changes with the ST Max.

Before you make your purchase, you should also know the costs associated with SkyTrak.

While they used to have support for third-party software providers like E6 and WGT, they are moving towards more of a “closed” system like Trackman.

Here is a breakdown of what you get for each of their software plans:

SkyTrak didn’t necessarily need to reinvent its technology. They already have one of the best consumer launch monitors on the market.

The ST Max is a refinement, not a breakthrough.

If you’re trying to maximize value and comparing it to the entire market, the SkyTrak Plus remains an incredible buy.

If you want the latest release and plan to train speed as if it were a skill (which it is), the ST Max offers a polished, well-designed experience.

Either way, you’re getting a powerful tool to help you practice smarter.

And more importantly, you’re getting feedback that actually makes you a better golfer over time.