Correct launch monitor placement is the single most common source of inconsistent data in home simulator setups. A monitor 2 inches out of position reads differently than one placed correctly. This guide covers exact positioning by monitor type so you get consistent results every session.
Establish your hitting position first
Before placing the monitor, mark your hitting position on the mat. This is the anchor point everything else is measured from. Use tape or a floor marker — whatever you'll reproduce exactly each session.
Your hitting position should be:
- Centred on the mat width (or slightly right-of-centre for right-handed golfers)
- At least 10 ft from the screen face
- Far enough from side walls to swing freely
Side camera monitor placement (SkyTrak Plus, Bushnell Launch Pro, Foresight GC3)
| Setting | Specification |
|---|---|
| Position | To the left of the ball (for right-handed golfer) |
| Distance from ball | Follow manufacturer spec — typically 6–8 inches |
| Height | Level with the ball (mat surface) |
| Angle | Facing the ball directly, perpendicular to target line |
| Ball position on mat | On the marked hitting strip or rubber tee insert |
The most common mistake is placing the monitor too far from the ball. Check your manufacturer's exact distance spec — SkyTrak Plus and Bushnell Launch Pro have specific requirements. Too far and the cameras miss the ball at impact. Too close and the housing can interfere with the swing.
Radar monitor placement (Garmin R10, Mevo Gen 2, Trackman)
| Setting | Specification |
|---|---|
| Position | Behind the golfer, on the target line |
| Distance behind golfer | 7–8 ft (check manufacturer spec) |
| Height | On the ground or on a low tee |
| Angle | Aimed down the target line toward the screen |
| Alignment | Critical — misalignment causes club path errors |
Radar monitor alignment is the most important placement variable. The radar beam follows the target line — if the monitor is angled even slightly left or right of target, club path and face angle readings will be systematically wrong. Use an alignment stick on the ground to confirm the monitor is aimed directly at the centre of the screen.
Overhead monitor placement (Uneekor Eye Mini, Eye XO2)
| Setting | Specification |
|---|---|
| Position | Ceiling mount, centred above hitting position |
| Height from ground | 9–10 ft (check model spec) |
| Lateral offset | Model-specific — follow installation guide exactly |
| Calibration | One-time setup with calibration mat included |
Overhead monitors are installed once and don't require repositioning. The one-time calibration with the included mat is critical — follow the installation guide exactly. Incorrect calibration produces systematic errors in all measurements that are difficult to diagnose after the fact.
Frequently asked questions
- My carry distances seem consistently short. What should I check?
- For radar monitors — check alignment and distance behind the golfer. A monitor placed too close behind you or angled off target will produce short carry readings. For camera monitors — check ball position on the mat and the distance from monitor to ball. Also confirm you're using indoor calibration mode if available.
- Can I use floor markers to maintain consistent placement?
- Yes — this is strongly recommended. Tape marks or a physical floor guide that positions the monitor the same way every session eliminates placement variation as a source of inconsistency. Most golfers see noticeably more consistent data after adding floor markers.
- Does it matter which side the monitor is on for left-handed golfers?
- Yes. Side camera monitors should be placed on the right side of the ball for left-handed golfers — the same side as the trail hand. Check your manufacturer's documentation as some monitors have left-handed specific placement guides.
- My monitor sometimes misses shots. Could placement be the cause?
- Yes — this is one of the most common causes. For camera monitors, the ball needs to be in the sensor's field of view at impact. Check the exact distance and confirm the monitor is level with the mat surface. For radar monitors, confirm alignment and that nothing is obstructing the radar path between the monitor and ball.
We've done the research. Here are our recommendations by room size and budget.