SkyTrak+ (Plus) Launch Monitor Review: A Massive Upgrade

The original SkyTrak revolutionized the home golf simulator market. For years, it was the only affordable camera-based launch monitor that could fit in a small space. However, as technology advanced and competitors entered the market, the original SkyTrak began to show its age—especially regarding shot delay, misreads, and lack of club data.

Enter the SkyTrak+ (Plus). Released to address every shortcoming of its predecessor, the SkyTrak+ combines photometric (camera) technology with dual-doppler radar to deliver a powerhouse unit at a mid-range price. For Canadian golfers, this might be the most compelling option under $5,000.

1. Dual-Technology: Camera Meets Radar

The biggest selling point of the SkyTrak+ is its hybrid data collection system.

• The Camera System: Like the original, high-speed cameras capture the ball at impact to measure ball speed, launch angle, backspin, and side spin. This ensures the unit remains highly accurate indoors in small spaces.
• The Dual-Doppler Radar: This is the game-changer. The radar tracks the clubface before and through impact, providing legitimate club data without needing reflective stickers.

What Data Do You Get?

You now get a comprehensive suite of data previously reserved for units twice the price:

• Ball Speed, Launch Angle, Spin Rate, Spin Axis
• Carry and Total Distance
• New: Clubhead Speed, Smash Factor, Club Path, Face Angle, and Face-to-Path.

2. SkyTrak+ Pricing and Subscriptions in Canada

When evaluating the SkyTrak+ in Canada, you have to account for both the hardware and the ongoing software subscriptions.

Hardware Cost

• The SkyTrak+ retails for roughly $2,995 USD, which translates to about $4,000 - $4,200 CAD depending on the exchange rate and import duties.

Software Plans

SkyTrak operates on a tiered subscription model:

1. Basic Plan (Free): Simple driving range. No simulator integration.
2. Game Improvement Plan (~$130 CAD/year): Unlocks advanced range features, bag mapping, skills assessment, and is required to connect to third-party software.
3. Play and Improve Plan (~$260 CAD/year): Includes WGT (World Golf Tour) and 15 E6 Connect courses.

To play on software like GSPro, TGC 2019, or E6, you must have at least the Game Improvement plan.

3. Simulator Space Requirements

Because it relies primarily on its camera for ball flight, the SkyTrak+ is a dream for tight Canadian basements. You do not need the 16-20 feet of depth required by pure radar units like the Garmin R10 or Mevo+.

Place the unit a few inches from the ball, ensure you have enough room to swing, and you are good to go. Like the GC3 or Quad, the only negative is that right- and left-handed players must move the unit back and forth during a round.

4. Performance Enhancements Over the Original

If you are a Canadian golfer wondering if you should upgrade from the original SkyTrak, the answer is a resounding yes.

• No More Shot Delay: The infamous 2-3 second delay of the original is gone. The SkyTrak+ displays shots almost instantly.
• Fewer Misreads: The new camera system and processor mean a significantly lower percentage of dropped shots or unread chips.
• Outdoor Viability: The original SkyTrak was notoriously bad outdoors on grass or mats due to sunlight interference. The SkyTrak+ has improved outdoor performance, making it usable at the driving range during the summer.

5. Software Integrations

The SkyTrak+ connects natively to several top-tier simulator platforms:

• E6 Connect: Highly polished, great graphics, easy to use.
• TGC 2019 (The Golf Club): Massive library of over 100,000 user-created courses.
• GSPro: The current king of simulator software. While originally a workaround, SkyTrak and GSPro have integrated well, making this the preferred setup for most serious sim golfers.

Conclusion

The SkyTrak+ successfully bridges the gap between entry-level monitors (like the Garmin R10) and high-end units (like the GC3). At roughly $4,200 CAD, it offers club data, near-instant shot rendering, and incredible indoor accuracy. For the average Canadian golfer looking to build a high-quality, reliable home simulator in a confined space, the SkyTrak+ is currently one of the best value propositions on the market.