The saying "practice makes perfect" becomes a lot more accurate when there's data to analyze afterward, especially for a golf swing. Repetition and adjustment are paramount for getting better, but practicing golf isn't as easy as basketball or football. That's why mobile launch monitors have become so popular. These little devices are easy to set up in a garage or driveway and provide a statistical analysis of your performance. They're great to have, but they can be pricey. Luckily, a popular model by Rapsodo is $200 off right now and shoppers say it's very easy to use.
The Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor (MLM) is on sale for just $300—a 40% discount on the original price of $500. It's one of the most thoroughly-reviewed MLMs at PGA Tour Superstore and has earned more than 60 five-star ratings, enough to land it a spot among the top five bestselling models. It might be small, but it's loaded with features.
Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor, $300 (was $500) at PGA Tour Superstore
This indoor/outdoor Rapsodo MLM can tell you everything you need to know about your shot. Through the use of Doppler radar technology and an iPhone or iPad (Android isn't supported at this time), you get access to features like shot tracing, GPS shot mapping, club gapping, and more, in addition to statistical data points like distance, ball speed, launch angle, and others. There's even an option for video playback to easily analyze and correct your grip, stance, and follow-through. These are just some of the free features.
Rapsodo also offers a $99 annual premium subscription for its devices that grants you access to a whole bunch of extra useful features, including storage for up to 10,000 shot videos, slow-motion video playback, and online lessons via Coach Connect, to name a few. There's also a premium feature called Rapsodo Combines that analyzes 24 shots and produces advanced insights into your strengths and weaknesses with recommendations for adjusting as needed.
With its vast capabilities, it sounds complex, but shoppers say it couldn't be easier to use. "Easy to set up, accurate, nice data," a shopper said. "I use it hitting into a net in my driveway here in the New York winters. I like that it provides distance off the midline, along with overall carry and total distance, launch angle, and some other useful metrics. Helps dial in solid hits and accuracy."
Other shoppers say it's helped their game, in some cases, after less than a month of use. "I've used the Rapsodo MLM and it has drastically improved my understanding of my swing," a shopper said. "The video [playback] has helped me to work on my swing and improve on my ball striking. In the few weeks I've had the MLM, my scores have gone down. I'm a 12 index and shot 74 (par 68) last week!"
As for the premium subscription, one shopper noted that it's been helpful. "I use the product exclusively outside at the range… The software is solid including advanced analytics for the upgraded subscription. Well worth it."
With the Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor on sale for just $300, you get access to one of the best brands in this space for much less. And, though MLMs are an investment, using one offers you the opportunity to practice anywhere, including at home, with the statistics and video needed to become a better golfer.
