Launch monitors have revolutionized how golfers practice, from tour pro all the way to casual amateur. If you turn up at a PGA Tour or DP World Tour event and head to the driving range you likely won't see a single player, caddie or coach without one, routinely checking after each shot to gauge the numbers and attempting to translate that to on-course success.

Not too long ago, launch monitors were almost only seen on professional driving ranges, with us mere mortal amateurs resigned to feel and what our eyes tell us when practicing. That's all changed now - the launch monitor market has ballooned, opening up a range of prices and opportunities for those with the most modest of budget to invest in one. Launch monitors have gone from chunky pieces of kit to ultra-portable packages, some of which you only need your smartphone for.

The data they provide can prove invaluable too, teaching us so much about our game and the golf swing that we didn't know previously. Data such as clubhead speed, spin rates, launch angle and carry can help inform golfers of all levels, quickly highlighting tendencies in your swing, both good and bad. Knowledge of this can help diagnose strong and weak points in your game, leading (hopefully) to more informed and valuable practice sessions.

The expanding launch monitor market is a good thing, of course. However, it does make the process of choosing the right one that bit more difficult. If you strung by a tight budget, we'd recommend checking out our guide for the best cheap golf launch monitors but if you're still open minded about budget and type of monitor you're after, keep it right here.

RAPSODO MOBILE LAUNCH MONITOR

Best budget launch monitor

SPECIFICATIONS

Technology: Radar Technology and camera depends on phone

Data: Club/ball speed, launch angle/direction, distance

Weight: 256g

Battery Life: Up to 8 hours

Portable: Yes

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REASONS TO BUY

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Turns yours smartphone into a launch monitor with accurate, quick data feedback

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Very easy to set up

REASONS TO AVOID

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Currently not available on Android devices

If you’re looking to access swing-generated data but can’t afford a traditional launch monitor, then the Rapsodo mobile monitor could be a great fit.

In simple terms, it converts your smartphone into a launch monitor. All you do is download the free app that uses your phone’s camera and GPS, and then slot into the unit. It really is that simple. However, it’s worth noting that the app is currently only available to Apple iOS users.

From here you’ll get plenty of data insights, from ball speed to carry distance, smash factor and more. Yes, you’ll have to get used to reading these numbers from your phone but we found that the smaller screen wasn’t too much of hindrance and the shot tracer graphics the app used were accurate for much of the time. Speaking of accuracy, the Rapsodo has a feature that detects the club you’re hitting but we found that this didn't always work. You can enter your clubs manually however.

As well as its affordability, another benefit of the Rapsodo is its portability. Unlike a traditional launch monitor it can be carried with ease and comes with its own case. In short, this is a great affordable option, comfortably one of the best budget launch monitors we’ve used, that proved to be easy to use and accurate during our testing.