Golf Net vs. Simulator Enclosure: Which Do You Need at Home?

Most people starting a home setup ask the same question: do I need a full simulator enclosure, or will a hitting net do? Here's the honest answer.

Choose a hitting net or cage if...

• You're hitting outdoors or in a large space with nothing fragile nearby.
• You mainly want to groove your swing and don't need to see a course on a screen.
• You want something you can set up and take down.
• Your budget is under about $500.

Good options: the metal-frame practice net cage (about $275) and the larger driving cage (about $420). For chipping in the backyard, the Wedge Game short-game net is a fun, highly rated pick.

Choose a simulator enclosure if...

• You're hitting indoors: a garage, basement or spare room.
• You want to project a course or range onto an impact screen, now or later.
• You want side and top protection for walls, lights and windows.
• You want it to look like a finished golf room, not a backyard net.

Good options: the GolfBays EasySim (about $799) to start, the SimBox (from about $1,529, 7 sizes) for most garages, and the Lux (about $2,999) for a dedicated room.

Quick comparison

• Price: net $65-$420; enclosure $800-$3,000.
• Indoor safety: net is limited; enclosure is designed for it.
• Projector-ready: net no; enclosure yes, with an impact screen.
• Setup: net is quick and portable; enclosure is semi-permanent.

The upgrade path most people take

Start with an enclosure and a good hitting mat. Add a launch monitor next, then a projector. Each step works on its own, so you can practice from day one.

Still deciding?

Send us your space measurements with the chat button or text (714) 343-7110 and we'll tell you which one fits.