When choosing the best enclosure for your simulator, you must consider size, a durable frame, blackout features, and budget. The enclosure should fit the available space, provide stability to take your shots, and enhance the immersive experience with blackout walls and roofs. Most importantly, it should be within your budget.
When I got my simulator, I paid much attention to the enclosure. I tried some simulators at friends’ places, and many had enclosures with problems. Some couldn’t block out the room’s light well, making the images too dim. I used one that didn’t stop balls, so I had to dodge them to avoid getting hit. When setting up mine, I wanted a simulator with an enclosure that fixed these issues. After looking into them and trying different options, I found the best three enclosures.
- Best Overall: SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure
- Best for larger spaces: SIG12 Golf Simulator Enclosure
- SwingBay Golf Simulator Enclosure
| Image | Product | Detail | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure |
| Buy Now For $3,250 |
 | SIG12 Golf Simulator Enclosure |
| Buy Now For $3,600 |
 | SwingBay Golf Simulator Enclosure |
| Buy Now For $2,999 |
Ultimately, I chose the SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure and am really happy with how it performed. Setting it up was a breeze, and I appreciate that it displayed 100% of the projected image. The durability and robust frame were impressive. Although the price was a bit high, the performance justified it. However, if you’re on a budget, the SwingBay Golf Simulator Enclosure is a more affordable option. It’s important to note that this enclosure doesn’t block out as much light as the SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure.
In the rest of this article, I’ll delve into a detailed review of the features of these enclosures, how they fared during testing, the associated benefits, and some drawbacks I encountered while using them. Let’s dive in.
Specification comparison
These enclosures are crafted from durable materials, ensuring top-notch quality and optimal performance for a truly immersive simulation experience. For a quick overview of the key specifications of these enclosures, refer to the table below, which offers essential information in case you’re in a hurry.
| Simulator Enclosure | SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure | SIG12 Golf Simulator Enclosure | SwingBay Golf Simulator Enclosure |
| Dimension | 10’10(w) x 8’4(h) x 13’7(d) | 12’2 (w) x 9’4 (h) x 16 (d) | 8’ x 10’5” x 4’8” |
| Recommended space dimensions | 9’ high ceiling minimum | 10’ high ceiling minimum | 12 (w) x 9 (h) x 16 (d) |
| Material | Nylon | Nylon | Nylon |
| Price | $3,250 | $3,600 | $2,999 |
SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure
SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure
$3,250
- It provides high-quality materials and construction, ensuring durability.
- It’s more compact, making it a suitable option if you prioritize space.
- It is designed to allow the projected image to fill the screen.
This enclosure provides a simple setup, excellent quality, and increased durability, with added weights for secure installation. It’s almost 11 feet wide and smaller, making it a more compact and budget-friendly alternative to the SIG12 Golf Simulator enclosure. If you prioritize space, this enclosure is an excellent option. Despite being more affordable than the SIG12, it still comes at a higher price than most options.
Features
Unlike other enclosures that leave white space at the top and bottom, the SIG10 is uniquely designed to ensure the image fills the screen. The recommended space for the SIG10 is 12 feet wide, 9 feet high, and 18 feet deep, allowing comfortable use of your longest club.
The frame was effortlessly connected using quick connectors, and the screen was secured to the frame with bungee cords.
Measuring 10’10” wide, the SIG10 enclosure features a screen that is 10’1″ wide by 7’7″ high. It includes a screen constructed from tight-knit polyester, is tailored for a 4:3 aspect ratio projection, and can withstand ball speeds of up to 250 MPH. The enclosure is made from black nylon walls, a powder-coated steel frame, a bottom-weight strip, and protective foam padding.
All SIG10 and SIG12 Golf Simulator Enclosures components, except for the poles and connectors, boast identical high-quality standards. The poles, which can be obtained from a home improvement store, are made of 1″ metal conduit instead of a lighter aluminum style with snap-in connectors.
The enclosure unit includes the SIGPRO Premium Screen, Push Pin Poles & Connectors, Protective Foam Padding, Premium Surround Material, 6″ Ball Bungees, and Side Barrier Netting.
Performance
Setting up the enclosure was a breeze, and it worked well for me. When assembling the frame, I noticed a bit of flexibility, making it easier to fit into spaces that might be borderline in terms of the suggested free space.
During assembly, I found that the landing pad shouldn’t be placed directly on concrete. The balls bounce too quickly off the impact screen and landing pad.
I also made a small adjustment to the connectors: I turned the bolt heads inward, parallel to the fabric. The way they were set up initially had the fabric rubbing against the bolt heads, which could potentially cause quicker wear and tear. To prevent this, I added some foam over the bolts.
It’s a good idea to have overhead netting if you hit a shot poorly. For the instructions, it’s important to know that there should be a gap between the overhead fabric and the back frame. I spent about 15 minutes trying to figure out if I did something wrong until I moved on and realized that’s how it’s supposed to be.
This enclosure quality is top-notch, and despite using it every day, there are no noticeable signs of significant wear and tear.
Pricing value
While this premium enclosure comes at $3,250, which is more affordable than the SIG12 Golf Simulator Enclosure, it remains a pricier option. However, its exceptional performance justifies the cost and makes it a sensible investment.
What I liked:
- It provides high-quality materials and construction, ensuring durability.
- It’s more compact, making it a suitable option if you prioritize space.
- It is designed to allow the projected image to fill the screen.
What I didn’t like:
- Despite being more affordable than the SIG12, it is still relatively more expensive than some alternatives.
- The landing pad included in the package might be too firm, causing balls to bounce too quickly.
SIG12 Golf Simulator Screen Enclosure
SIG12 Golf Simulator Screen Enclosure
$3,600
- Effective screen protection and durability.
- Premium materials that offer high-quality screen protection.
- Constructed with premium materials.
- Withstands golf ball strikes up to 250 MPH
- Displays in HD for an immersive experience.
This premium enclosure is designed to offer excellent screen protection, safeguard against potential damages, and effectively contain balls. Recognized for its exceptional durability and quality, however, it comes at a higher cost and is best suited for larger spaces.
Features
This enclosure comes equipped with protective foam padding that securely attaches to the screen’s left, right, top, and bottom, providing a defense from powerful shots for the poles behind the screen and surrounding areas.
The addition of side barrier netting, similar to the SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure, offers extra protection to the setup surroundings, and sandbags ensure a secure anchor for the net to catch any stray golf balls.
Designed for optimal performance, the SIG12 features a robust and durable construction that elevates the overall quality of the enclosure. Notably, it allows the image to fill 100% of the screen.
Like the SIG10 golf simulator Enclosure, this model is constructed using premium materials, ensuring that your SIG12 golf simulator screen displays high-definition quality and is built tough to withstand golf ball strikes reaching speeds of up to 250 MPH.
The package includes the SIGPRO Premium Screen, Push Pin Poles and Connectors, Protective Foam Padding, Premium Surround Material, 6″ Ball Bungees, and Side Barrier Netting.
Performance
Putting together this enclosure was pretty straightforward for someone like me who’s handy with assembly tasks. If you are less experienced, the key is to take your time, especially during the pipe-cutting phase, and everything falls into place seamlessly.
My package, however, didn’t include pipes. I purchased them separately for about $160 to complete the setup. Even with the additional expense, clear instructions made the setup easy. I noticed the need for foam to safeguard steel bars, effectively preventing stray projectiles. Remarkably, after around 5000 shots, the enclosure still held up well.
The frame is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a cinch to assemble. This enclosure was made of quality materials and provided minimal ball recoil.
Pricing value
This enclosure is priced at $3,600. While this enclosure may come with a higher price tag than other options in indoor golf shops, it has standout performance and exceptional durability. If you are, however, on a budget and have limited space, I recommend going for the SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure.
What I liked:
- Effective screen protection and durability.
- Premium materials that offer high-quality screen protection.
What I didn’t like:
- Higher price compared to alternatives.
- Pipes were not included, requiring an additional purchase.
- Larger space requirement
SwingBay Golf Simulator Enclosure
SwingBay Golf Simulator Enclosure
$2,999
- Budget-friendly for cost-conscious buyers.
- Suitable for garage and basement setups.
- Enables indoor golfing day or night.
- Heavy-duty impact screen for a clear, crisp image of the virtual golf course.
- Easy-to-assemble framing system.
This enclosure provides a cost-effective option that maintains high quality, ensuring a clear and sharp image to elevate your simulation experience. However, it falls short of the premium alternatives on the market, as the straps tend to come loose and no longer secure the material together after a few rounds of use.
Features
The SwingBay offers a robust impact screen and a hassle-free assembly system.
Featuring a robust, crisp white ballistics-grade impact screen, it ensures a high-quality visual experience. The sturdy, heavy-duty aluminum framing, complete with all necessary tools and hardware, provides a stable structure for accurate shot representation.
The enclosed nylon blackout curtain adds to the immersion, whether in your garage or basement. Safety is a priority with two triangular side nettings equipped with sandbags. Frame Padding Flaps contribute to enhanced durability, and the Integrated Velcro Assembly system ensures a hassle-free setup and disassembly process.
Performance
The frame is incredibly sturdy, and the screen is made from robust, heavy-duty material. Following the installation video on YouTube made the setup a breeze, and I had a buddy help me with my installation; this made assembling the frame quick and easy.
It snugly fits into my garage, which is a major plus. The only minor issue I’ve encountered is mishits, which cause noise when the ball hits the metal.
However, it’s worth noting that the straps holding the material together tend to come off. Its quality is not as great as the SIG10 and 12 enclosures.
Pricing value
This enclosure provides a more affordable option with satisfactory performance, making it an ideal choice if you are on a budget. Priced at $2,999. However, I highly recommend considering the SIG10 Golf Simulator Enclosure if you can allocate a bit more budget. Although it comes at a slightly higher cost, the exceptional quality and performance it delivers ensure that you’ll get great value for your money. Investing more in the SIG10 is worthwhile for those seeking a superior and more comprehensive golfing experience.
What I liked:
- Budget-friendly for cost-conscious buyers.
- Suitable for garage and basement setups.
What I didn’t like:
- Straps may loosen over time, proving they are not the best quality.
- The noise reduction feature is not as effective as some other alternatives.
Factors to consider when choosing an enclosure for your simulator
Material:
The enclosure walls of a golf simulator are commonly crafted from durable and cost-effective materials like nylon. I’ve found that enclosures made from nylon are inherently more durable, which makes them well-suited to withstand the repeated impact of golf shots, ensuring the enclosure maintains its structural integrity over time. The material is instrumental in absorbing and distributing the force of incoming shots, contributing to both the walls’ longevity and the entire setup’s safety. So, when shopping for an enclosure, keep an eye on those made with nylon, as they offer better functionality.
Size, shape, and aspect:
When setting up your golf simulator enclosure, size becomes a pivotal factor, impacting both the physical space it occupies and the overall quality of your simulation experience. It’s crucial to understand your designated area, measure dimensions, consider ceiling height, and account for any spatial constraints.
The first thing I did before making a selection was align the enclosure size with my intended aspect ratio for projection; I went for a widescreen 16:9. Ensure the chosen enclosure accommodates your desired aspect ratio, whether you prefer widescreen 16:9 or the conventional 4:3. To guarantee that the projected images and virtual golf course dimensions align accurately.
Make sure to compare the minimum space requirements of enclosures you’re interested in with the size of your available space. This involves considering the enclosure’s dimensions and leaving ample room for movements, swing dynamics, and additional equipment like your launch monitor.
Choosing the right enclosure shape based on the desired aspect ratio is crucial when setting up a golf simulator, as it directly influences the visual experience and accuracy of shot representation.
For example, if you are going for a widescreen 16:9 experience, opt for an enclosure with a more rectangular shape. This configuration aligns with the widescreen format, allowing for installing an impact screen that matches the 16:9 aspect ratio. The rectangular shape ensures the entire screen area is utilized, providing a broad and immersive visual field reminiscent of real golf course dimensions.
If you are, however, going for a 4:3 projection, opt for a square-shaped enclosure. This configuration offers compatibility with the prevalent projection standards, offering a more standardized golf simulation experience.
Frame:
The frame of a golf simulator enclosure plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall experience. When choosing an enclosure, focus on a frame constructed from sturdy materials such as steel or aluminum to withstand the impact of golf shots. You don’t want your golf ball to rebound off the solid frame, which can cause unintended injury or damage.
Also, check if protections are available for the frame, such as flaps or foam padding inserts. Consider ease of assembly by opting for a frame with a straightforward setup process, especially if frequent disassembly is anticipated. I’ve found that adjustable frames offer customization features based on your space requirements.
Stability during swings is also paramount; features like anchor points can increase steadiness. Look for frames compatible with accessories like projectors and camera mounts, and assess weather resistance for outdoor setups.
Depth of the simulator enclosure
The depth of a golf simulator enclosure is a crucial element that significantly influences the overall quality of the simulation experience. Generally speaking, a deeper enclosure, with a recommended depth of at least five feet, offers several key advantages.
Firstly, it contributes to a more immersive simulator experience by providing ample space for unrestricted and natural swings, closely resembling the feel of a real golf course. Moreover, the increased depth effectively blocks out more ambient lighting, offering a clearer and more vivid image on the projection screen.
An enclosure with a larger depth accommodates different launch monitor positions and ensures ample space to stand comfortably.
Additionally, a deeper enclosure enhances protection against wayward shots, acting as a buffer zone to reduce the risk of ball rebound and potential damage.
Protection
Ensuring you choose a golf simulator enclosure equipped with comprehensive protection features is essential for the safety and durability of the equipment. The best enclosures have “blackout” sides and upper walls. These not only help block out the ambient lighting in the room so you get a brighter picture, but they also help catch your ball if you hit an errant shot and miss the screen or are hitting a high-lofted iron like a wedge.
You should also look out for the noise-dampening feature, as it is important for a quieter experience in shared or residential spaces.
Budget:
Your budget rightfully takes centre stage, and luckily, there are practical approaches to keeping costs in check, particularly since the size and framing type are significant price determinants. When considering size, carefully assess your available space, finding a sweet spot that aligns with your immersive experience goals without unnecessary excess.
The type of framing, whether it’s premium steel or more economical aluminium, plays a pivotal role in cost considerations, so weigh your priorities for durability against your budget constraints. Beyond framing, the quality of materials matters, and while premium options may offer enhanced performance, there are budget-friendly alternatives that don’t compromise reliability.
Final thoughts
Choosing the right golf enclosure for your simulator set involves considering crucial factors such as material, size, shape, aspect ratio alignment, sturdy frames, easy assembly, sufficient depth, and protection features for safety and durability. Budgetary considerations also play a significant role.
Premium options like SIG10 and SIG12 will offer you exceptional performance, but at a higher cost. The SwingBay enclosure is more budget-friendly but does not offer the same quality and performance as the SIG10 and 12 enclosures.
