# Golf simulator software explained

Source: https://pinandyard.co.uk/blog/golf-simulator-software-explained
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Pin and Yard

**In short:** Golf simulator software takes the shot data from your launch monitor and shows the ball flying on a virtual range or course. Some monitors include their own app with a range and a few courses; separate packages such as E6 Connect, GSPro or Awesome Golf add more courses and games. Check which software your monitor supports, what device it runs on and whether it needs a subscription.

A launch monitor measures the shot; simulator software turns those numbers into a picture of the ball flying down a fairway. Software is often the part buyers think about last, yet it decides what you can play, what computer you need and what you pay each year. This explainer covers what simulator software does, how it connects to the monitor, the main types and how pricing models work, without quoting prices that change often.

## What the software does

The launch monitor sends ball speed, launch angle, direction and spin (measured or calculated) to the software. The software runs a ball flight model to work out where the ball would go, then shows it on a range or a course. It handles the rest of the game too: the lie, the green, putting, scoring and multiplayer.

Better software models how the ball bounces and rolls, offers practice modes such as target games and combines data with video. Results still depend on the monitor's data, as covered in [how accurate are golf launch monitors](https://pinandyard.co.uk/blog/how-accurate-are-golf-launch-monitors).

## Built-in apps against separate packages

Most launch monitors come with their own app, which usually includes a driving range, shot data and sometimes a few courses or games. Many also work with separate simulator packages. For example, the Voice Caddie SC4 Pro listing says it is compatible with E6 Connect, with a free subscription that includes one course and a driving range, and notes that its simulators are only available on iOS.

Well known separate packages include E6 Connect, GSPro, Awesome Golf and Creative Golf, among others. Which ones your monitor supports depends on the maker's agreements, so check the monitor's compatibility list before you buy either.

| Type | What you get | Watch for |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Monitor's own app | Range, data, sometimes courses | Limited courses on some |
| Course play packages | Many real or fictional courses, multiplayer | Device and subscription |
| Practice and game packages | Targets, skills tests, fun games | Fewer full courses |
| Data and coaching apps | Detailed numbers, video, stats | Less visual play |

Types of software

## What device it runs on

Software runs on a phone, tablet or computer, depending on the package. Some run only on iOS, some on Windows PCs, some on several platforms. Course play packages with detailed graphics often need a Windows PC with a capable graphics card. Check the minimum requirements on the software maker's site before buying a computer for your bay.

Connection is usually Bluetooth or Wi-Fi from the monitor to the device. Some packages need a separate connector app running alongside.

## Licences, subscriptions and free options

Pricing models vary. Some software is a one off purchase, some is an annual subscription, and many monitors require a subscription to unlock advanced features or extra courses. Some monitors include a period of software with the purchase; the SkyTrak ST MAX listing, for example, includes one year of software.

If you want to avoid ongoing fees, check what the monitor's app does for free and which packages offer a perpetual licence. Our [launch monitor subscriptions](https://pinandyard.co.uk/blog/launch-monitor-subscriptions) explainer covers this in detail.

## How to choose

Start with the monitor, because it limits which software you can use. Then decide whether you want course play, practice games or detailed data, and match the software to your device.

- Want to play full rounds: course play package compatible with your monitor.
- Mainly practice: the monitor's own app may be enough.
- Using an iPad: check iOS support.
- Building a bay with a PC: check graphics requirements.
- Avoiding fees: look for free tiers or one off licences.

[See simulator launch monitors](https://pinandyard.co.uk/best/best-launch-monitors-for-home-simulator)

## Measured and calculated data in software

Software can only work with the numbers the monitor sends. If spin is calculated rather than measured, the software's ball flight is an estimate built on an estimate, which can make some shots look better or worse than they would outdoors. Good packages let you see the raw data alongside the picture so you can tell which is which.

Putting is a weak point for many home set-ups, because most monitors read putts less well than full shots. Software handles this in different ways: some use auto putt or gimme distances, some read putts from the monitor, and some offer a separate putting mat with its own sensor. If putting matters to you, check how the package handles it.

## Setting it up

Install the software and the monitor's app, pair the monitor, then run the alignment and calibration steps. Our [how to build a golf simulator at home](https://pinandyard.co.uk/blog/how-to-build-a-golf-simulator-at-home) guide covers the full bay, and [golf simulator screens and projectors explained](https://pinandyard.co.uk/blog/golf-simulator-screen-and-projector) covers the display. If shots are not registering, see [launch monitor not picking up shots](https://pinandyard.co.uk/blog/launch-monitor-not-picking-up-shots).

## Frequently asked questions

**Can I use any simulator software with any launch monitor?** No. Each monitor supports specific packages. Check the compatibility list before buying.

**Is there golf simulator software without a subscription?** Some monitors include a free app with a range, and some packages offer one off licences. Check current terms.

**Do I need a powerful PC?** For detailed course play packages, often yes. Check the minimum requirements.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://pinandyard.co.uk/best/best-launch-monitors-for-home-simulator
- https://pinandyard.co.uk/best/best-golf-launch-monitors
- https://pinandyard.co.uk/best/best-golf-launch-monitors-under-700