Launch monitors are one of the best tools for working on your swing as they provide you with valuable data. In this article we take a look at the best affordable launch monitors for 2025.
Before we dive into the launch monitors themselves, let’s describe the characteristics we are looking for.
First of all, we want easy portability.
Ideally, we want our launch monitor to easily fit into our golf bag so we can take it onto the range, and then pack it up when we are ready to head out onto the golf course.
Secondly, we want our launch monitor to be useful both outdoors AND indoors.
Those of us who live in the north want the option to hit a few shots and get some data during those long and cold winter months.
Third, and most important, we want accuracy.
There is no point to working with a device that won’t give you accurate data. Our launch monitor should be accurate within 2% of the top of the line launch monitors.
For a 200 yard shot, that’s four yards and that’s pretty accurate.
Fourth, we want multiple data points. What can the launch monitor tell us about club face angle and swing path at impact? What about swing speed and smash factor? All of these data points can help us as we try to improve our golf swings.
And last, but not least, we want affordability.
Not all of us can afford the $10,000 + launch monitors that are on the market these days, or even the $2,000 units.
The best affordable launch monitors
After considerable research, I narrowed my list to these three affordable launch monitors…
Let’s have a look at the details for each one.
Flightscope Mevo
The Flightscope Mevo has been on the market for a number of years now, and it is now priced near the lower end of the range for these affordable launch monitors.
This device uses 3D Radar Tracking technology to produce the data and ball flight data.
The main data points it produces are…
- Carry distance
- Clubhead speed
- Ball speed
- Spin rate
- Smash factor
- Launch Angle
When you pair the device with the Mevo app on your phone or tablet, you can also do some golf swing analysis.
The unit also provides you with audio feedback so you don’t always need to look at your tablet or phone for the data.
Ultimately, the Flightscope Mevo doesn’t offer some of the bells and whistles that our other two entries offer, but it is the most affordable of the three.
You can learn more about Flightscope Mevo on Amazon here.
Garmin Approach R10
The Garmin Approach R10 is a step up from the Flightscope Mevo, and it is reflected in its price.
The unit provides you with more data points that are quite helpful to swing analysis, including swing path and the angle of the club face to swing path. These metrics are in addition to the usual club speed, ball speed, launch angle, etc.
The unit also pairs with your phone or tablet and takes clips of your swing which is paired with the data discussed.
Unlike the Mevo, you can also pair the Garmin R10 with E6 Simulator software and others so you can use it as an indoor simulator as well.
Overall, the reviews for the Garmin Approach R10 are pretty solid. You can learn more about it on Amazon here… Garmin R10.
Voice Caddie SC4
The Voice Caddie SC4 is the upgrade from the SC300.
This is another affordable launch monitor that can be used both indoors and outdoors and it can also be paired with the E6 Connect simulator software.
The unit employs Doppler Radar to track the ball and provide you with the data. Data produced includes the usual club speed, ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, etc.
Based upon reviews, this device produces pretty accurate distance data when compared to a Trackman.
Ultimately, the Voice Caddie SC4 is priced at the top of the range of the three affordable launch monitors presented.
You can learn more on Amazon here… Voice Caddie SC4.
Conclusion – The best affordable launch monitor
Based upon the data and customer reviews, my pick among the best affordable launch monitors is the Garmin Approach R10.
I like the features that it offers, and from everything I’ve read, it is quite accurate.
The price point is directly between the Mevo and the Voice Caddie, so to me, this makes the R10 a better value.
Check it out on Amazon here… Garmin Approach R10.
