A golf launch monitor measures ball and club performance using radar, cameras, or hybrid systems, producing data that golfers use to improve distance, accuracy, and consistency. This guide explains how launch monitors work, which technologies power them, and which data metrics matter for practice, fitting, and simulator play. Golfers, coaches, and simulator builders will find clear comparisons, practical setup advice, and targeted buying guidance to match budget, portability, and simulator requirements. Many players struggle to interpret raw numbers or to choose a device that fits their indoor space or outdoor practice routine; this article turns metrics into drills and maps common buyer profiles to specific models. Below you will find a concise technology primer, categorization by use-case, detailed reviews of leading models in 2025, a decision checklist for buyers, step-by-step home simulator setup instructions, and a PAA-style FAQ addressing common concerns. Throughout the guide, we use industry terminologyāportable launch monitors, photometric vs. radar tracking, spin rate, smash factor, and simulator compatibilityāso you can quickly translate data into practice actions.