Guide
Golf simulator screens and projectors explained
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In short
An impact screen takes the ball and shows the projected image; a short throw projector, usually mounted above or in front of the hitting area, fills the screen without casting your shadow. Match the screen's shape to the projector's aspect ratio, check the throw distance for your room, and leave a gap behind the screen so it can absorb impact.
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The screen and projector turn a launch monitor and net into something that feels like a golf course. They also take up most of the space and a good share of the budget, so it pays to understand how they fit together before buying. This explainer covers screen types, sizes and aspect ratios, what makes a projector suitable, where to mount it and how to look after the screen.
Impact screens
An impact screen is a tough woven fabric that stops a golf ball at full speed and acts as a projection surface. It is hung in a frame or enclosure with some slack and a gap to the wall behind, so the ball's energy is absorbed rather than bounced back. Screens vary in weave, thickness and noise: tighter weaves give a sharper image, thicker fabrics last longer.
An enclosure adds side and top panels to catch mishits. Padding at the base protects the frame and stops low shots bouncing back.
Note:Leave enough space behind the screen for it to flex without touching the wall, and check for rebounds. Never stand to the side of the hitter in front of the screen.
Screen size and aspect ratio
Screens come in standard shapes such as 4:3 (squarer) and 16:9 or 16:10 (wider). The shape should match the projector's native aspect ratio, otherwise you will have unused bands or have to crop the image. Wider screens give a more immersive view but need more room width. Taller screens suit low ceilings less well.
Measure your room and allow space either side for the enclosure and a safe stance for left and right handed players. Golf simulator space needed gives the measurements.
| Aspect ratio | Shape | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| 4:3 | Squarer | Narrower rooms, taller ceilings |
| 16:10 | Slightly wide | Many home bays |
| 16:9 | Widescreen | Wider rooms, most projectors' native ratio |
Choosing a projector
Most home bays use a short throw projector, which produces a large image from a short distance. That lets you mount it close to the screen, above or just in front of the hitter, so your body does not cast a shadow on the image. The throw ratio tells you how far the projector must be from the screen for a given image width; use the maker's throw calculator for your room.
- Throw ratio that suits your room depth.
- Enough brightness for your room, especially in a garage with daylight.
- Native aspect ratio matching your screen.
- Low input lag so the ball appears quickly after impact.
- Keystone or lens shift to square the image if mounted off centre.
Where to mount the projector
Ceiling mounting above and slightly behind the hitting position is common. It keeps the projector out of the way, but check that a driver swing will not reach it and that the ball cannot strike it. Floor mounting in a protective box in front of the hitter is another option for low ceilings. Avoid putting the projector where the launch monitor or lighting will interfere.
Run cables neatly along walls or ceilings so nobody trips. Allow ventilation, because projectors produce heat in an enclosed bay.
Looking after the screen
Ball marks build up on impact screens over time. Many screens can be cleaned gently with a soft brush or a damp cloth with mild soap; check the maker's care guide, because some fabrics should not get wet. Do not scrub hard, which can wear the surface. Check the screen regularly for wear at the strike point and replace it before a ball can pass through.
Lighting and image quality
Ambient light washes out a projected image. In a garage with windows, blackout blinds or curtains make a bigger difference than a brighter projector. Keep room lights off the screen surface and aim them at the hitting area if a camera based monitor needs light. Test the image with the room as you will use it, day and evening.
Resolution matters less than many buyers expect, because the image is viewed from a few metres away and the screen weave softens fine detail. Brightness, contrast and low input lag usually matter more for a convincing picture.
Putting it together
Plan the screen and projector after you have chosen the launch monitor and checked the room. How to build a golf simulator at home covers the sequence, and golf simulator software explained covers what shows on the screen.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a short throw projector? In most home bays, yes, so it can sit close to the screen without your shadow on the image.
What screen size do I need? As large as your room allows while leaving space for the enclosure and a safe stance.
How do I clean ball marks off the screen? Use a soft brush or damp cloth with mild soap if the maker allows. Avoid scrubbing.
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