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Garmin Approach R50 vs SkyTrak ST MAX
How the Garmin Approach R50 and the SkyTrak ST MAX compare on price, the room they need, subscriptions and software. Facts from the makers and large retailers, checked October 12, 2026.
| Garmin Approach R50 | SkyTrak ST MAX | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $4,999.99 | $1,695 |
| Technology | Camera | Radar + camera |
| Position | Beside the ball | Beside the ball |
| Room depth from | 4.00 m (13 ft 1 in) | 3.70 m (12 ft 2 in) |
| Recommended depth | 5.40 m (17 ft 9 in) | 4.60 m (15 ft 1 in) |
| Ceiling | Your height decides | Your height decides |
| Width | General rule: 3.05 m one side, 4.3 m both | General rule: 3.05 m one side, 4.3 m both |
| Left-handers | Move it to the other side | Move it to the other side |
| Subscription | Optional, up to $100/yr (needed for the built-in simulator) | $130–600/yr |
| GSPro | Yes | No |
| E6 | Yes | Paid tier |
| Awesome Golf | Yes | No |
| Own software | Home Tee Hero on the unit (no PC needed) | SkyTrak app (PC, Mac, iPad, Android) |
| Best for | All-in-one simulator without a gaming PC | Short rooms and Mac/iPad users |
The main differences
- In the US the SkyTrak ST MAX costs $1,695 and the Garmin Approach R50 $4,999.99.
- Both need roughly the same depth: at least 3.70 m (12 ft 2 in) to 4.00 m (13 ft 1 in), by the figures available.
- Subscription: Garmin Approach R50: optional, up to $100/yr (needed for the built-in simulator); SkyTrak ST MAX: $130–600/yr.
- GSPro: Garmin Approach R50 works directly, SkyTrak ST MAX has no official support.
Which one to pick
Garmin Approach R50
Best for: All-in-one simulator without a gaming PC.
Pick it if
- you want to play GSPro
- you want a simulator without a gaming PC
SkyTrak ST MAX
Best for: Short rooms and Mac/iPad users.
Pick it if
- you want to pay less (counting three years of required subscription)
- you play on a Mac or iPad
More comparisons
All launch monitors in one table
Sources
- https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/736810/
- https://www.garmin.com/en-US/newsroom/press-release/outdoor/meet-the-garmin-approach-r50-the-only-portable-golf-launch-monitor-with-a-built-in-simulator/
- https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-D31AA1A2-C026-46EB-9699-FA94F1E8AF0B/EN-US/GUID-0F0AA80D-2DFC-4B26-A0CF-2DC394E4015B.html
- https://www.garmin.com/en-US/blog/outdoor/3-key-differences-between-garmin-approach-r50-and-r10/
- https://pluggedingolf.com/garmin-approach-r50-launch-monitor-review/
- https://www.skytrakgolf.com/collections/skytrak-st-max-collection
- https://www.skytrakgolf.com/collections/launch-monitors
- https://www.firstcallgolf.com/industry-news/release/2025-10-16/skytrak-introduces-the-new-st-max-to-power-smarter-golf-improvement-and-training
- https://shopindoorgolf.com/blogs/helpful-articles-videos/skytrak-st-max-review-whats-actually-new
- https://golflink.com/equipment/skytrak-st-max-review-3579027
Independent: no maker pays to be listed or ranked. How we earn money. Prices and specifications checked October 12, 2026.