Why the New Garmin R50 Is Worth the Investment

SI Golf reviews one of the best launch monitors to buy right now.

Garmin R50 Launch Monitor / Garmin

Paul Liberatore is the founder of Golfers Authority, which reviews the world's best golf products and gear. This post contains affiliate links, where we may receive a percentage of any sale made from the links on this page. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication.

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The Garmin R50 golf simulator and launch monitor is here, and I'm beyond excited to tell you about it. After tracking this product's development for three years, I got an exclusive preview at Garmin's headquarters this summer. The technology behind this device is mind-blowing. But you're probably wondering: Does this simulator live up to the buzz, or is it just smart marketing? Let's break it down.

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Jump To

1. What is the Garmin R50?
2. How Does the Garmin R50 Work?
3. How is its Golf Training and Simulation?
4. Is the Garmin R50 Worth It?

What is the Garmin R50?

Garmin Approach R50 Launch Monitor / Garmin

The Garmin R50 brings professional-level shot tracking to your game at $4,999—yes, that's about $4,000 more than the R10, which you can also buy here from SI's partners at PGA TOUR Superstore. But the difference is incredible! You'll get precise data for every club in your bag, from powerful drives to delicate putts. The impressive 10-inch color touchscreen displays all your essential information in crystal-clear detail.

You can view your stats and play virtual courses on the same beautiful display. Best of all, you can customize the screen layout exactly to your preferences. Playing with golf gloves? No worries, the touch controls work flawlessly. Whether you're practicing in your garage or out on the driving range, the smart anti-glare coating ensures everything remains clearly visible.

How Does the Garmin R50 Work?

The Garmin R50's three high-speed cameras are exceptional compared to other launch monitors. Working together, these cameras capture every detail of your swing and ball flight. The system tracks the ball's movement frame by frame, delivering accurate shot data. The cameras are positioned strategically to record multiple angles at once, making sure every part of your swing is analyzed. They're also calibrated to work effectively in various lighting conditions, from bright outdoor sunlight to indoor artificial lighting.

This advanced multi-camera system provides precise data across more than 15 distinct metrics, including ball speed, launch angle, and face-to-path measurements. The cameras now also capture high-speed impact videos, allowing for detailed frame-by-frame analysis of the club moving through the impact zone.

The Garmin R50 tracks data for each golf club individually, creating detailed performance profiles across your entire set. The device automatically records and organizes shot history and performance patterns. By collecting this historical data, you can monitor progress over time and spot areas that need work. The system also analyzes trends across different clubs and shot types, giving you valuable insights into your consistency and skill development.

How is its Golf Training and Simulation?

Garmin Approach R50 Launch Monitor / Garmin

The best part is that the Garmin R50 can transform your practice area into the ultimate golf simulator. At its core, the Garmin Home Tee Hero simulator showcases the R50's simulation capabilities. The system arrives preloaded with more than 43,000 golf courses from around the world, featuring enhanced course maps that provide incredible detail and realism. The multiplayer feature accommodates up to four players, making it ideal for friendly competitions or family game nights.

The Garmin R50's built-in Wi-Fi capability unlocks access to numerous third-party simulator platforms. The device integrates smoothly with popular simulation options:

• GSPro: Known for its photorealistic course renderings
• E6 Connect/Apex: Coming soon, offering advanced physics and course variety
• Awesome Golf: Providing both realistic and arcade-style gameplay options

One of the best features is the system's display flexibility, which allows you to customize your setup exactly how you want it. You can show course images on a large screen while keeping your shot data clearly visible on the R10's 10-inch display. This dual-screen capability creates an immersive experience while still providing easy access to technical feedback. Adding to the realism, the system even simulates how weather conditions affect your ball's flight during indoor rounds.

The weekly tournament feature connects you with players worldwide, letting you compete in organized events and track your performance on global leaderboards. This competitive element adds excitement to your practice sessions. By connecting online, your solo practice becomes more engaging and helps you stay motivated during the off-season.

The Garmin R50's simulation features create a seamless connection between practice sessions and actual gameplay, letting golfers enjoy the sport throughout the year, no matter the weather. With its accurate measurements, vast library of courses, and adaptable display settings, this premium indoor golf system delivers an experience that comes remarkably close to playing on a real course.

Garmin Approach R50 Launch Monitor / Garmin

If you want to improve your golf game, the Garmin R50's training mode captures every practice session with detailed metrics for each club in your bag. The best part is that the device's high-speed camera records impact videos showing exactly what happens when your club meets the ball. You can review these videos right after each shot, making it easy to identify patterns and make adjustments to your swing.

The Garmin R50 generates shot dispersion charts using advanced ball flight trajectory modeling. These charts display exactly where your shots land and help you identify any consistent misses or patterns in your game. The system stores your statistics over time, allowing you to track improvements and focus on specific areas that need work.

Is the Garmin R50 Worth It?

While the Garmin R50 is an impressive product, it's important to consider a few drawbacks:

The first concern is the price. At $4,999.99, this launch monitor sits firmly in the premium market segment. For weekend golfers, this represents a significant investment compared to basic tracking devices.

Another limitation is the built-in power pack, which runs for 4 hours before needing a recharge. Golfers who practice for longer periods must either plug in the device or take breaks to charge.

At $4,999.99, the Garmin R50 is very much a premium golf simulation device. It enables golfers to practice and play year-round, regardless of weather conditions. Its unique combination of portability, advanced features, and integrated simulation capabilities sets it apart from competitors. The Garmin R50 serves as an all-in-one solution for dedicated golfers looking to improve their game, eliminating the need for separate launch monitors and simulation software.