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▶ How Much Space Do You Need?
A quick video summary of this guide. Prices aren't read out; see the tables below.
Read the transcript
Room size decides everything else, so measure before you shop. Start with your own swing. Take slow, full practice swings with your driver while someone watches the ceiling and walls, then add a comfortable safety margin. Then take three measurements: ceiling height right where you'll stand, width for your stance and clearance, and depth for the screen, your swing, and the launch monitor. Check each maker's published space requirements against your numbers, and protect anything in the swing arc. Safety first, then fun.
Start with your own swing, not a chart
Room-size charts are a fine starting point, but golfers differ in height, swing plane and club length. Here's the most reliable test, and it's free:
- Stand where you'd hit from, holding your driver (your longest club).
- Make slow, full practice swings. Have someone watch the ceiling and walls, or film it.
- Note your highest point at the top of the swing and in the follow-through, then add a comfortable safety margin.
- Repeat with the club you'd least like to hit a light fixture with. For most people that's still the driver.
The three measurements that matter
1. Ceiling height
This is usually the limit in basements. Measure at the exact spot where you'll stand, because beams and ducts lower the usable height.
2. Width
You need room for your stance plus clearance on both sides. If you want to swing both right- and left-handed (or host friends who do), center the hitting area so both sides have room.
3. Depth
Depth has to cover the distance from the screen or net to the ball, your stance, your backswing, and any launch monitor that sits behind the hitter. Launch monitors differ a lot here: some sit beside the ball, some behind, some mount overhead.
Check each product's published requirements
Every launch monitor and enclosure maker publishes its own placement and space guidance. Before you buy, read the requirements for the exact model on the maker's or retailer's page, and compare them with your measurements. Some retailers also offer room calculators or free design consultations. Carl's Place, for example, links to a screen-size calculator, and Rain or Shine Golf advertises free design consults.
Garage, basement or spare room?
| Space | Usually good | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Garage | Depth and width; easy to bring gear in | Temperature swings, the garage door track, parking the car |
| Basement | Climate control and quiet | Low ceilings, beams, ductwork, support posts |
| Spare room | Comfort; easy to keep set up | Width for a full swing, and furniture |
Your measuring checklist
- Ceiling height at the hitting spot
- Room width and depth, wall to wall
- Locations of outlets, windows, doors and lights
- Any posts, beams or ducts in the swing path
- Where a projector could mount, if you want one
When you have your numbers, see net vs. screen vs. enclosure to pick what goes on the wall.