Best Golf Launch Monitors 2026: A Buyer's Guide for London Golfers

In the world of modern golf, technology has become an indispensable tool for players looking to gain an edge. Launch monitors, once reserved for the pros, are now more accessible than ever, providing amateur golfers with a wealth of data to understand and improve their game. Whether you're practicing at a London driving range or in your back garden, a personal launch monitor can provide invaluable insights into your swing.

What to Look for in a Launch Monitor

When choosing a launch monitor, consider the following factors:

• Accuracy: The most important factor is the accuracy of the data. Look for devices that provide consistent and reliable measurements.
• Data Points: Different launch monitors track different data points. The most common are ball speed, club speed, launch angle, and carry distance. More advanced models may also track spin rate and shot shape.
• Portability: If you plan to use your launch monitor at the driving range, look for a lightweight and portable device.
• Ease of Use: A good launch monitor should be easy to set up and use without complicated calibration.
• Price: Launch monitors can range in price from a few hundred pounds to several thousand. Determine your budget before you start shopping.

Square Golf Launch Monitor - Our Top Pick

The Square Golf Launch Monitor is our top pick for its exceptional combination of accuracy, features, and value. It uses photometric camera technology to provide a wealth of data, including club speed, ball speed, launch angle, launch direction, and distance. The device is easy to set up and provides almost instantaneous feedback after each shot. With an 8-hour battery life, it's perfect for long practice sessions.

Key Features:

• Photometric camera technology
• 8-hour battery life
• Accurate data readings
• Simple setup procedure
• Exceptional response speed

Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor - Best Budget Option

The Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor is a fantastic option for golfers on a budget. It cleverly utilizes your smartphone's camera to provide accurate data on your swing. The setup is simple: just place your phone in the cradle and position the device six feet behind the ball. The app provides a great user experience with impressive visuals and a shot library to track your progress. It's lightweight, portable, and comes with a hardshell case for easy transport.

Key Features:

• Uses smartphone camera (iOS/iPad)
• GPS satellite view
• Shot library for tracking progress
• Lightweight and portable
• Includes hardshell case

PRGR Portable Launch Monitor - Best Handheld

The PRGR Portable Launch Monitor is the epitome of simplicity and portability. This pocket-sized device uses Doppler radar to provide accurate readings of your swing speed, ball speed, and distance. It's incredibly easy to use – just turn it on, place it on the ground, and start swinging. It stores data from your last 500 shots and has an impressively long battery life.

Key Features:

• Doppler radar technology
• Pocket-sized and lightweight
• Stores 500 shots
• Long battery life
• Simple operation

Finding the Right Launch Monitor for You

The best launch monitor for you depends on your needs and budget. If you're just starting out and want to try launch monitor technology, the Rapsodo Mobile is an excellent budget-friendly option. If you want the most accurate data and don't mind spending more, the Square Golf or Rapsodo MLM2PRO are excellent choices. For golfers who value simplicity and portability, the PRGR is hard to beat.

Return to our driving range tips page for more information on how to use launch monitors effectively in your practice sessions.