The main objective of this OptiShot 2 review is to provide you with comprehensive information to see if it’s the right simple golf launch monitor and affordable simulator for you.
Usually, people purchase a golf simulator to help them improve their game, while others get one for them to play in the comfort of their home whenever they don’t want to go outside. Either you’re the first or the latter, we’ll introduce you to one of the popular simulators in the market.
OptiShot 2 is a golf simulator designed for people who want to play and improve their golfing skills at home. The OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator comes with a large variety of digital courses for you to enjoy regardless of the weather outside. This DIY golf simulator is ideal for people who want to experience golf simulation at home while staying within a reasonable budget.
OptiShot 2
Affordable Golf Simulator
As one of the most inexpensive golf launch monitors on the market, the OptiShot 2 does an incredible job of keeping up with other simulators that are 4-40x the price! Do NOT underestimate this simulator!
How to Buy the OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator
The two most common ways to purchase the simulator is through the official website or on Amazon. Both methods work great.
Click here to visit the official website.
Click here to buy off of Amazon (you can also click below).
Optishot 2 Review
The Optishot 2 Golf Simulator is one of the affordable golf simulators on the market. You can now practice your golf game at home without spending thousands of dollars.
Most other systems require more hardware in order to get yourself a functioning system. The OptiShot 2 builds its launch monitor directly into the included turf hitting pad. An included USB cable connects to your computer, where the included software lets you play real life golf courses instantly.
Whether you’re a low or high handicap, this simulator is designed for all types of players. You can choose to play from 15 popular golf courses in the world including the famous courses in the United States. With multiple camera views and weather conditions that can be simulated, you will indeed enjoy playing indoor simulator golf with your friends and family.
You can play up to 4 players and compete with other golfers too.
How To Get Started
The Optishot 2 golf simulator is easy to set up. Here’s how to get started.
1. Download the software
After purchasing the golf simulator, the first thing to do is to download the simulator program from their site. Follow the installation process of the Optishot Live.
2. Connect OptiShot to Your Laptop
Once you are done downloading the simulator program you can now connect your golf simulator with the ten-foot USB cord to your computer/laptop to the side of the swing pad, and then launch the software.
Follow the instructions on the screen to calibrate your golf club. The golf simulator has two rows of infrared sensors: one at the back and the other row of sensors in the front. These built-in sensors will track your swing tempo, club head speed, club path, launch angle and other data points.
3.Setup
You can now set up your mat and net. If you don’t have a mat and a hitting net yet at home, no need to worry. You can purchase “Golf in a Box” right from the official store.
When setting up you’re mat and net, you need to set it up in a place where you can comfortably swing your golf clubs. Most people set this up in your garage or man cave if you have the space.
One thing that I like about this simulator is it comes with foam golf balls. I’ve seen players that use a blanket instead of a net with the foam balls, which is cheap and effective..
4.Play
Now that everything has been set-up, you can now start playing.
OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator Features
OptiShot Live
OptiShot Live is software that allows an average golfer to play golf courses and online tournaments with other people. This feature allows the golfer to have a clear interaction with the screen.
The simulator comes with 15 courses around the world. If you want more premium courses available, you can add an extra $30 each and purchase new courses off the official site.
You can host a game, or you can join one made by other players. The online part of the home simulator provides an “independent play” option, so you don’t have to worry about other players seeing your shots. You can play with your family and friends without going to the golf course.
There is also a chat and a scoreboard to keep track of your progress against other people. The online tournaments feature more than 30 real courses, and you can compete to win amazing prizes.
Something to note: the OptiShot 1 and 2 share the same hardware. So, if you already own the first generation version, you only need a software upgrade. To set it up, the only thing that you have to do is to connect it to a PC or laptop via a USB cable.
Diverse Game Styles
One of the best aspects of OptiShot 2 is its large variety of game styles. Within the software, you can play different game types:
- Best ball
- Better ball
- Normal match play
- Skins
- Stroke play
- Stableford
You can also choose from a diverse array of tees in addition to the par 3 tees for 18 holes.
Before you get to that though, you can select tournaments, peer games with friends, a normal round by yourself, or closest-to-the-pin options.
Compatibility And System Requirements
You can set up OptiShot 2 using a PC or a Mac, and you don’t need a powerful computer for it. Just make sure your operating system is not too outdated.
One thing to note is that the connection from the OptiShot to your computer is a USB cable. There is no wireless option.
The system requirements are:
- 3 GB HDD of storage
- Video drivers
- USB 2.0 port
- 4 GB RAM
- 256 MB graphics card
Optishot 2 needs an internet connection if you want to download a new course, download, or make some updates with the program.
Large Selection Of Real Golf Courses
You can greatly improve your golfing skills with the large variety of simulated golf courses provided by OptiShot 2. There are 15 pre-installed courses based on popular courses. Or if you prefer, you can just play on the simulated driving range.
The full list of includes courses and the real life ones they are based on are:
- The Golf Club Scottsdale (TPC Scottsdale)
- Long Island Black (Bethpage Black)
- Torrey White (Torrey Pines North)
- Torrey Black (Torrey Pines South)
- West Maui Plantation (Kapalua, The Plantation Course)
- Palm Desert Mountains (Bighorn Mountains)
- Palm Desert Canyons (Bighorn Canyons)
- Cogs Corner (Cog Hill Golf & Country Club)
- Twisted Twig Golf Club (Crooked Stick Golf Club)
- Fylde Links (Royal Lytham & St. Annes Golf Club)
- The Canadian Club (St. George’s Golf & Country Club)
- Warwick Hills Golf And Country Club (Michigan)
- Barsebäck Barseback Golf & Country Club (Sweden)
- Black Mountain Golf Club (Thailand)
- Österåkers Golf Club (Sweden)
To improve user experience, the courses features a realistic feel, ambient sounds, and even the option to change the weather to enhance immersion during the game.
For an extra $30 per course, the following additional courses are available:
- St. Andrews
- Pinehurst #2
- Pebble Beach
- TPC Sawgrass
- Kiawah Island (Ocean Course)
- Valhalla
- Whistling Straits
- Gleneagles
- Royal Liverpool
- Riviera Country Club
- East Lake Golf Club
- Merion Golf Club
- Atlanta Athletic Club
- Congressional Country Club
- Medinah #3
- Royal Melbourne
- Muirfield
- Royal St. George’s
- Olympic Club
You can play each of the courses above 3 separate times before you are forced to purchase the license for it.
Swing Analysis
The OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator improves your skill by completely tracking your golf club before, during, and after your swing. The software uses the in-built infrared sensors to analyze your swing pattern. You can use foam or real balls and the OptiShot 2 actually comes with a set of foam balls included.
This simulator only measures your clubhead speed and direction, so the type of balls you use does not matter. Not calculating ball speed is a big complaint of the system, but I found that it did a decent job estimating real life. Sometimes the shot angle was not 100% correct based on my gut feel.
The sensors shoot 10,000 pulses per second to trace your swing. Then, the software analyzes the movement and shows you instant feedback on your ball and swing data, as well as a simulation of your hit.
Comprehensive Stats
The stats and feedback provided by the software of OptiShot are easy to read and understand. After every shot, the software will show you:
- club head position
- speed
- alignment
- path
- ball flight
- direction
- distance
- final position
You will know precisely what skills you need to improve and can monitor those improvements over time! It also has a 3D graphic for a better user experience
Pros and Cons of OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator
Pros
- Precise and accurate tracking
- Online game mode
- Customization
- A large variety of courses
- Very durable, and it also comes with an 18-day warranty
- Easy to set up
- Affordable golf simulation for hundreds of dollars instead of thousands
- Many game styles
- It doesn’t require a high-end computer
- Saves you a trip to the driving range
Cons
- It requires a large space
- You have to set up good lighting
- The software comes with default settings, so you have to calibrate it
- The hitting mat that comes with it is very small.
- The simulator only tracks your club, not the ball.
- Putting simulation is clunky and not accurate.
Click here to view the top hitting mats for your indoor golf simulator setup.
What do you need to know before you get the Optishot 2?
Although OptiShot 2 is easy to install, there are certain things you need to know before you purchase it.
Compatibility
As long as you have an internet connection, the program works on both Mac and PC. There are two ways to install the program.
First, you can install it using the CD that comes with the hardware. Second, you can download it from their website. You can pick the one that is more convenient for you.
The package includes USB Cable. A 10-foot USB cable is included in the package You’re going to use this to connect your swing pad and your computer. If your computer only has USB-C, you’ll need to buy a converter cable back to USB-A to make things work.
The OptiShot 2 box also includes a swing pad, foam golf balls, gripper tee, practice tee, and the product key. Register using the product key that can be found on the bottom of the swing pad to get updates and platinum course purchases.
Mat
For a realistic game, the hitting mat uses 16 high-speed 48MHz fine-tune infrared sensors. This will track the club swing data and carry distance where you can calibrate your favorite club. Optishot uses a high-quality realistic turf for their mat. This will make you feel that you’re in real golf.
The sensors of OptiShot 2 are 48mhz infrared sensors, so you can only use it indoors. The precision of the sensors relies on good lighting. Therefore, it’s recommended to avoid sunlight and shadows. Also, the sensors work better if you use overhead lights in your room rather than a lamp.
When it comes to space requirements, you need to make sure you set up the hardware in an area where you can easily swing your clubs without hitting the wall, ceiling, or other objects.
One thing to note – since the simulator sits on the ground it will be slightly raised as compared to the floor. If you want it to be flat, you will need to purchase a golf hitting mat specifically fitted for the OptiShot 2.
We recommend this one which includes the simualtor, custom hitting mat, and practice net all in one affordable bundle. You might want to upgrade your projector screens game, and if you’re feeling super fancy, add an impact screen with enclosure for safety.
Putting
The weirdest part about my time playing with this simulator is the putting. Where the accuracy of full swing shots I never questioned, some of the putting mechanics are just laughable. You barely have to swing your putter over the sensor to send your ball flying 30 feet across the screen. Green speeds have little impact on your ball as well.
My recommendation is to set your “gimme” distance a generous 10 or 15 feet so that you don’t rack up unnecessary strokes fighting with the putting.
Program Installation
To install OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator, you need to connect the hardware to a computer using the cable. After you’ve done that, place the swing pad anywhere you like. However, make sure that the arrow on the pad points in the right direction.
You can find the product key on the box or on the main menu screen in the software. OptiShot 2 is also very easy to update. If there is an update available, simply open the software and click on the “Update OptiShot” option.
Other Positive Aspects of the Optishot 2
Price
There are many golf simulators in the market that cost thousands of dollars. One of the best features of the OptiShot simulator is that it lets you experience the same without spending too much. Many people are happy with OptiShot 2 because it’s less expensive than other golf simulators. For $499, you get nearly everything you need to play full swing golf at home.
Even though you have to pay for additional features, the simulator ensures a nice and fun experience.
With the 15 preloaded courses for more options during the simulation. This golf simulator has options for you to get everything that you need for a perfect play. I’ve seen people set this up and use it successfully in their living room.
The foam balls that come with this simulator are great if you want to be extra cautious about your setup. In case you don’t want to use real balls, you can use a blanket instead of a net.
Simplicity
Some devices have so many functions that sometimes it so confusing. Even if your not a “techy” person, this golf simulator is easy to set-up.
A good simulator should be simple enough to set up and used from day one. To start with, all you need to do is download the program, connect it to your computer or laptop using the 10 foot USB cable that is included upon purchase.
Ease of Use
Overall, the OptiShot is very easy to use. After you do the initial calibration for each club, there is not a lot of tinkering to do with the simulator. It’s not as sophisticated as a high priced launch monitor, but it is accurate enough to play a fun game of custom.
Customization
If there’s one thing that they really like with their golf simulator, it is the customization. This is one of the features that make OptiShot 2 as best golf simulator making it so popular. You can customize the courses and the weather based on your play style to achieve a truly realistic golf simulation
Precision And Accuracy
The Optishot 2 sensors activate when you bring your club back, and they measure the distances precisely. After you performed the swing, the software will send information to your computer through the provided cable. Then you can check the face angle, swing path, club head speed, face contact, distance traveled, shot shape, and swing tempo right on the screen.
Since the ball is not used in the tracking process, the OptiShot has higher error in calculating ball spin and launch angle. However, more serious golfers will look for a better quality simulator setup anyway. The OptiShot 2 is perfect for recreational golfers.
Optishot 2 Alternatives
If you are considering other simulator options, here are the closest alternatives to look at.
Skytrak Golf Simulator
KEY FEATURES
- Good for smaller indoor space
- Golf Digest’s “Best Golf Simulator”
- Best suited for android devices
KEY Drawback
- A subscription is needed to access advanced features.
Overview
The SkyTrak Launch Monitor is the cheapest of the expensive launch monitor options. It uses a high speed camera to capture high speed images of your club and ball at impact. It is filled with data points and features about your swing that are nice to analyze.
One nice feature I like in the SkyTrak is that you can customize your course conditions to match real life. So by adjusting the weather or course conditions, the monitor will automatically update your results.
The software is slick to use and has a lot of analytics. You can see all of your stats positioned around a virtual driving range. For $100 per year, you can upgrade your subscription and get extra games, new camera views, and even more tracking.
To learn more about SkyTrak, I took a more in-depth look at all the Skytrak launch monitor and simulator has to offer in my dedicated review here.
FlightScope Mevo Plus
KEY FEATURES
- Unbeatable accuracy
- Includes the E6 golf simulation software
Key Drawback
- Needs more space (7ft)
Overview
If you still want to stay on a budget, the Flight Scope Mevo Plus is a great alternative. One of the best features of the Flight Scope Mevo is that it is one of the most accurate simulators on the market. People invest in launch monitors like the Mevo Plus because they want to get the most accurate data out of their swing.
Golfers can play with 5 simulated course like Stone Canyon, Wade Hampton, Aviara, Belfry, and the Sanctuary. There are also 17 practice range and a mini-game.
It is also fun to hit your real golf ball into the net with a launch monitor. Another great feature of this simulator is the ability to record video of your swing and overlay data. The Mevo plus launch monitor uses a 3D doppler. This feature instantly measures golf ball parameters, carry distance club head high speed, shot shape, and so on.
Unlike the Optishot, the Mevo Plus simulator can be used indoors and outdoors.
If you want to learn more about FlightScope Mevo Plus and the 10 Best Simulator in the market day you can read it in our dedicated review here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can a golf simulator improve my skills?
A golf simulator helps you to have valuable feedback on every shot to improve your game. By playing on the simulation courses, you can pay attention to the swing data. You can get feedback from your club and golf balls touchpoints.
You can analyze your club speed, swing speed, smash factor, swing path, and distance that will be helpful when you’ll be on the actual golf course. With constant practice with the simulator, you can improve your swing technique and knows what kind of club works best for you.
Can I use the Optishot 2 outdoors?
No, you cannot use the Optishot 2 simulator outdoors. Using it to play outdoors may affect the performance of the data analysis of the simulator. Only use this simulator indoors in a well lit room with overhead lighting if possible.
How many courses are included in Optishot 2?
Optishot 2 is preloaded with 15 courses. It consists of Fylde Links, Palm Desert Mountains, Torrey White (Torrey Pines), West Maui Plantation, Cogs Corner, Long Island Black, Black Mountain and more.
If you wish to access additional courses, you can subscribe to their “mini-tour” or Pro-tour plan. This will give you a lot of access to more courses and allows you to compete with fellow golfers and win prizes.
Do I need to purchase anything to complete this simulator?
Optishot has almost everything to get started with your home golf except for a hitting net. If you want the OptiShot branded solution, they sell a “Golf In a Box” package which includes a hitting mat and net to use with the simulator. You can also purchase your own net if you don’t mind standing on your regular flooring.
What is Optishot Season Pass?
The “Season Pass” is a feature on Optishot 2. This allows you to connect with more people worldwide with unlimited access to the course to play and win prizes. This is an annual subscription.
You can choose between Mini-tour and Pro-Tour.
Mini-tour has an annual subscription of $60 with minimum access to 25 course, while the Pro-Tour is $120 and gives you access to more than 60 golf courses.
How accurate is the OptiShot 2 golf simulator?
Despite only tracking your club data and not the ball, the OptiShot 2 is a fairly accurate golf simulator. The OptiShot 2 uses sensors inside the club head to track the club’s speed, spin rate, launch angle, trajectory and more. This data is then used to calculate the distance and direction of each shot. It also calculates the amount of backspin and side spin on the ball.
All of this information is displayed on the OptiShot 2’s screen, where your ball moves in simulation to your real hit.
Conclusion
The OptiShot 2 Simulator offers a nice experience for anyone looking to have some fun on a simulated course. The hardware is also very easy to carry, so you can take it with you to a friend’s house with only a little bit of work.
The tracking system provides useful stats to improve your skills. It’s even cheaper than other golf simulators, and the quality is good. Even though it has some negative aspects, they are easy to overcome.
Hopefully this OptiShot 2 review has shown you that this is an affordable simulator that is perfect for casual play. You should definitely give it a try if you want to have fun and also learn to play better.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API