You don't have to buy an all-in-one package to get a great home sim — building it yourself can save real money and tailor the room to your space. The trick is knowing what's worth DIY-ing (the enclosure) and what isn't (the launch monitor). Here's the honest DIY playbook.
DIY the enclosure and frame (PVC or timber + a purpose-made impact screen and netting) — that's where the savings are. Don't DIY the launch monitor — buy the best one your budget allows. Get the dimensions right first, then build screen → mat → projector → PC around your monitor.
What to DIY vs buy
- DIY: the enclosure & frame — a PVC-pipe or 2x4 timber frame with a hung impact screen and side netting saves the most versus a bought enclosure.
- Buy: the impact screen material — use a purpose-made golf impact screen, not a bedsheet or projector screen (safety).
- Buy: the launch monitor — the heart of the room; don't compromise here. See the guide.
- Buy: a good mat — protects your joints; see best hitting mats.
A DIY Enclosure Kit (frame + screen + netting)
If full DIY feels daunting, a semi-kit — frame hardware, a purpose-made impact screen and netting — gives you most of the savings with none of the guesswork on ball-stopping safety. The sweet spot for most builders.
Check today's price →The DIY build, step by step
- 1. Measure. Confirm ceiling height with a full driver swing, then width and depth — see the garage guide.
- 2. Build the frame. PVC pipe (cheapest) or 2x4 timber (sturdier), sized to your space.
- 3. Hang the impact screen. A purpose-made screen, tensioned, with side and ceiling netting for mis-hits.
- 4. Add the mat & projector. A quality mat and a short-throw projector positioned clear of your swing.
- 5. Add the monitor & PC. Your launch monitor plus a PC or tablet running the software.
Plan your DIY build in 60 seconds
Tell us your space, budget and game and we'll spec the exact setup to build around.
Spec my build →Frequently asked questions
How much does a DIY golf simulator cost?
You can build a solid DIY setup for roughly $1,000–2,500 depending on your launch monitor — the enclosure is where DIY saves most versus a package. Price it in our cost tool.
Can I use a bedsheet or projector screen as an impact screen?
No — it's unsafe and won't last. Always use a purpose-made golf impact screen rated to stop golf balls.
What's the hardest part of a DIY build?
Getting the dimensions and safety right — ceiling clearance for your swing and proper netting to contain mis-hits. Measure carefully before you build.
General build guidance — always confirm swing clearance and follow product safety instructions. Contains affiliate links; we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.