Are you an avid golfer, but don't always have the time or opportunity to go to the golf course? Or do you want to hit a ball during the winter months when the golf course is closed due to the weather? Then a golf simulator might be the perfect solution for you. As a golf simulation specialist and tech enthusiast, I was immediately intrigued when I first saw the Square Golf Launch Monitor. I had never before held a high-speed camera system of €899.95 in my hands that not only simulates the fairways, but also the green. From driver to putter, you have all the clubs in your hands.
And also revolutionary, you don't need to sign up for a subscription. All software updates are free, as is the use of the virtual practice facilities such as the driving range and a putting green.
If you want to play a course, you can, the software has 10 courses and another 10 courses will follow shortly. You pay with credits.
In the package
The package contains everything you need to get started right away:
- The launch monitor is equipped with a rechargeable and replaceable lithium-ion battery
- A USB charging cable (USB A to C) for charging the battery
- A club marker: special stickers for attaching to the golf club to measure the swing path and angle of attack
- A remote control for easy operation of the launch monitor
- Three special golf balls with pattern for accurately measuring the spin data of the ball
- A gift card with setup information and 1,000 credits for golf simulation (1 credit per hole).
- A swingstick for virtual shots
First impression and setup
Let's start with the design. The Square Golf Launch Monitor is surprisingly compact and has a sleek, straightforward design. The metal casing gives it a solid feel. The device is small enough to store easily, but still has a professional look. The setup was surprisingly easy: download the Square Golf app on my mobile phone (both Android and iOS), then turn on the launch monitor, log in to my Square Golf account and connect it to my smartphone. It was done in a few minutes and I was ready to go. By the way, you will have to perform an update of the launch monitor the first time, but that is also done in a moment. If you want to use the Square Golf in your golf simulator and project the game via a projector, I recommend downloading the software on your PC, that is also done in no time.
The software works very intuitively. And is also very easy to set up. For us Europeans on the mainland it is nice that we can set the metric system. And of course you can set various things such as your playing level, the putting speed etc.
Whether you have a dedicated practice area with a net, a golf simulator or just want to free up some space in your living room, this launch monitor takes up minimal space. The clever design allows you to place the device right next to your ball, which not only saves space but also improves accuracy.
Uh, you said living room? That's right! This set also includes a swingstick. This swingstick is 24 inches long, packed with sensors, and replaces your golf clubs but feels almost the same.
Advanced technology for accurate measurements
The heart of Square Golf is the advanced 3D vision camera. This high-speed camera measures both ball and club data with impressive precision. From your driver to your putter, every shot is accurately analyzed. The launch monitor measures, among other things:
ball data:
- ball speed
- direction
- launch angle
- spin rate
- apex
- carry distance
- roll distance
- total distance
club data:
- swing pad
- face angle
- dynamic loft
- angle of attack
This detailed data gives you direct insight into your technique and helps you to work on your swing in a targeted manner. During my test sessions I noticed that the measurements were consistent and reliable. And yes, it is not a Trackman but you should not expect that from a product in this price range. So you can experience a small deviation but it did not bother me as a well-intentioned amateur. Using the supplied golf balls and the club marker increased the accuracy even further. I was especially impressed by how well the device could detect subtle differences in my swing, clearly a plus if you play golf indoors to refine your technique.
Realistic gameplay and practice options
One of the most impressive aspects of Square Golf is the software. With 10 beautifully 3D golf courses (and another 10 in development in the near future), you have a range of challenging courses at your disposal. The graphics are of high quality, making for an immersive experience that comes surprisingly close to real golf when used in a golf simulator. Each course feels unique and challenging, with realistic terrain variations, water hazards and bunkers.
What I especially liked was how the simulator captured the unique characteristics of each course. The wind, the green speed, and even the atmosphere all felt authentic. And the fact that you also putt makes playing with this golf simulator a complete experience. You don’t have to hole out, you can set 60cm from the flag as a “gimme”. This not only makes it fun to play, but also helps prepare for real rounds on different types of courses.
In addition to playing full rounds, Square Golf also offers various practice modes. Whether you want to work on your drive, refine your approach shots or improve your putting, there is always a suitable exercise. The direct feedback you receive after each shot is incredibly valuable for analyzing and fine-tuning your technique.
Gamechanger: No subscription for your golf simulation
A very pleasant side effect is that you do not need to take out a subscription for this golf simulator. The use of the virtual training facilities is free and as soon as you want to play a course you pay with credits. The system is quite simple, each hole is a credit. You buy these credits in bundles at Square Golf. Expect to pay around € 23.50 for 1,000 credits. That is more than 55 rounds of 18 holes. You can play a round of golf with up to 4 players in various game formats.
Ease of use is paramount
For those who struggle with new technology, you’ll be amazed by the ease of use of Square Golf. Setting it up is a breeze: turn it on, log in to your Square Golf account, find your device, and you’re ready to swing. The included remote control makes operation even easier.
The LED lights on the device clearly indicate what the status is. From searching for the ball (flashing blue) to the moment you can hit (green), everything is intuitive and easy to understand.
The unit is compatible with both standard golf balls and the patterned balls that come with it. While the patterned balls provide more accurate data, especially regarding spin, I can see using standard balls being more than adequate for most fun sessions.
For those moments when you don't want to or can't hit real balls, there is the 'virtual shot' mode. With the included swingstick you can practice your swing without impact, while the launch monitor still analyses your technique. A very funny experience because when you are on your tee spot you still need a ball. You place this in the same position as when you hit with a club, and you also aim the swingstick at the ball.
Battery life and connectivity
With a battery life of around 8 hours, you can practice for long periods without worrying about power. Charging takes around 6 hours, meaning you can charge overnight and practice undisturbed during the day.
Bluetooth connectivity provides a seamless connection to your smartphone, tablet or computer, allowing you to use the Square Golf app or software on the device of your choice, further increasing flexibility.
Points for improvement
Although the Square Golf Launch Monitor is an excellent product, I think there are a few areas where it could be improved. And I think that will happen in the short term.
- The camera system is very good but unfortunately only suitable for indoor use. This launch monitor cannot be taken to the driving range.
- Charging time: The 6-hour charging time for a full charge is on the long side. A faster charging option could further improve the user experience.
- Number of Jobs Available: While the 10 jobs included are of high quality, a larger selection of jobs available right away would further increase the product’s appeal. The promise of another 10 jobs in development is great, but a wider selection from the start would be ideal.
- Integration with other golf apps: While the Square Golf software is comprehensive, integration with popular golf apps like E6 could further enrich the user experience.
Conclusion
After extensive testing, I can say that the Square Golf Launch Monitor is an impressive piece of technology that really sets the current wave of golf simulators and launch monitors apart. The combination of accurate measurements, realistic gameplay and versatile practice options makes the Square Golf a powerful device that could be a game changer in the sub-$1,000 golf simulator market. It’s the first all-rounder. I’m excited!
