SkyTrak vs Square Golf: Home Simulator Comparison Guide
If you’re building a home golf simulator, the SkyTrak+ and Square Golf Launch Monitor are two standout options - each catering to different needs and budgets.
These are both fantastic products, uniquely suited for golfers looking to build a DIY home simulator on a budget compared to more expensive options. Since they are both photometric camera-based launch monitors, they are excellent choices for smaller indoor spaces compared to radar launch monitors, which require significantly more space.
Both units are under the $4,000 Price range making them some of the most affordable launch monitors on the market! This comparison will take us through rice & value, accuracy & data, Indoor/ Outdoor Compatibility, and Simulation Features.
Comparison Breakdown: SkyTrak vs Square
The Square Golf Launch Monitor released late 2024, creating a buzz around launch monitors. It had a low entry price for being a photometric (camera based unit) that sits next to the ball. The SkyTrak+ has been around since 2023, replacing the original SkyTrak launch monitor. Bringing new features to the indoor game.
We've worked with Jon Sherman at Practical Golf to put together this head to head comparison!
Price and Value
SkyTrak+ ($2,495): Offers premium ball and club data, dual Doppler radar + photometric tracking, and top-tier software at a mid-tier price. However, there are higher ongoing costs associated with software and simulation subscriptions.
With the Skytrak+ Basic subscription, you receive access to their training tools and driving range. With the added Essential Plan Software subscription ($129 per year), you gain access to more insights and the ability to add simulated course play! Adding course play is an additional $220 per year for the SkyTrak+.
Square Golf ($699): The only camera-based launch monitor under $1,000, delivering solid ball flight data and a pay-as-you-go simulation model. One of the best features of the square golf unit is there is no subscription needed in order to run 3rd party software (namely GSPRO).
The square golf unit does include 1,000 FREE welcome credits to play 55+ rounds on it's own simulator software.
Verdict : SkyTrak+ is more accurate and feature-packed, but Square is unbeatable for budget-conscious golfers who cannot afford a launch monitor over $1000.
If you have the budget, SkyTrak’s value compared to products 2-10x its cost is fairly unmatched in the industry. The SkyTrak+ is compact, connects via USB or Wi-Fi, and works on PC, iOS, and Android. The SkyTrak+ also has a 5 hour battery life after a full charge.
Square Golf is a great starting launch monitor - affordable and entertaining. But if you are looking for more accurate tracking there are better options available! The Square Golf Unit is lightweight, bluetooth-enabled, and quick to set up (5–15 minutes). The square golf unit also includes a portable swing stick for practice sessions on the go! The Square golf unit has an 8 hour battery life after a full charge.
Accuracy, Data, Technology
SkyTrak+: The SkyTrak+ utilizes two different launch monitor technologies to track the ball and club data. The first being the photometric camera. The camera takes high speed images of the golf ball at the moment of impact. The other technology used in the SkyTrak is dual doppler radar tracking. The dual doppler technology delivers the clubs data without the need for marked clubs.
• Ball Data: Launch Angle,Carry Distance, Total Distance, Total Spin, Ball Speed, BackSpin, Side Angle & Spin data, Max Height, Descent Angle,
• Club Data: Club Speed, Club Path, Face to Path, Face to Target,
Square Golf: The Square Golf unit also utilizes Photometric technology to track ball and club data. The high-speed cameras in the Square look for the marked balls to calculate the data at impact to see the direction of the spin and other important ball data metrics.
"Accurate ball data like carry distance, launch angle, ball speed (within 1–2% of high-end units) but lacks advanced club metrics like smash factor and clubhead speed. Expect more misreads, and the club data will not be as accurate". - Jon Sherman in head to head test
In order to accurately track ball & club data, the Square Golf unit requires marked balls and a clubs.
Square Golf Data Tracking ( With Marked Balls & Club stickers):
• Ball Data: Ball Speed, Direction, Launch Angle, Spin Rates, Apex, Carry Distance, Run, Total Distance.
• Club Data ): Swing Path, Face Angle, Dynamic Loft, Angle of Attack
Verdict : SkyTrak+ is the better choice for detailed ball flight analysis, while Square is great for basic practice.
SkyTrak+ works in tight spaces with a forgiving hitting zone around a laser indicator. No special balls or stickers required - just set it up and swing.The SkyTrak+ can work outdoors, but not in direct sunlight or on grass, you must be hitting off of a golf mat in a shaded area.
Square Golf is an indoor only device, the square golf unit will not work outdoors. Requires precise ball placement and will only work with the included marked balls. The Square launch monitor's hitting zone measures 6" x 6" and the app shows you exactly where to place the ball with visual and audio feedback!
Simulation & Software
SkyTrak+: Offers advanced tools like shot data optimization, wedge calibration, creative range environments, bag mapping, and skill challenges.
Does not integrate with third party software, SkyTrak gives you the option to add their own Course play powered by their partnerships with Trackman and Foresight Sports with an active essential plan subscription (formerly known as Game improvement plan).
Square Golf: Very basic native square software with two range environments, 10 fictional courses, and a credit-based pay-per-round model.
Supports GSPro, E6, and Awesome Golf without extra integration costs. Square golf also has realistic putting practice, with multiple greens and settings to practice on!
Verdict: The SkyTrak+ is ideal for golfers seeking more depth and structure in their practice sessions. The native software is far better, and the course play options allow you to play real courses with amazing graphics!
Square is perfect for casual users who want flexibility without subscriptions and on a budget. Integrating with GSPRO right out of the box is one of the best features of this unit.
Golf Simulator Software Costs: $349 per year for SkyTrak+ Essential & Course Play
Golf Simulator Software Costs: Square Golf $0 a year membership for their own courses and $250 per year GSPRO membership.
Bottom Line: Overall Verdict
Choose SkyTrak+ if you want a more reliable launch monitor. You will get fewer misreads and more accurate clubhead data. Additionally, if you desire a better native practice and simulation software, it is the clear winner in this regard.
However, the upfront cost is higher, and you will likely incur additional expenses each year for software fees.
Square is the better option if you’re looking for a low-cost, accurate indoor simulator without the ongoing expense of subscriptions. If you only want to use a launch monitor indoors, we believe it’s the best option available for under $1000.
Both are excellent in their respective categories—the right choice depends on how serious you are about improving and how much you’re ready to invest
Feel free to contact our team of experts if you have any additional questions!
Jon Sherman
Jon Sherman is the author of the international best-selling Foundations of Golf series. He also is the co-host of the Sweet Spot podcast, a PGA Tour coach, and the owner of Practical Golf.
