Garmin R50 vs Bushnell Launch Pro is one of the most common comparisons brought up among golfers trying to pick between an all-in-one launch monitor and a more traditional simulator-driven setup. 

The Garmin Approach R50 combines launch monitor tracking, simulator play, and shot review into a single unit with a large built-in touchscreen display showing impact video or simulation. You gain access to over 43,000 virtual courses, and can start playing without extra hardware.

The Bushnell Golf Launch Pro Circle B Edition uses a three-camera photometric system to accurately capture ball data. It pairs with Foresight’s FSX software for more structured practice and full simulator play. It’s a great pick if you’re trying to save money and build a dedicated simulator space with a separate screen and PC.

You can learn more about the Bushnell Launch Pro vs Garmin R50 side by side below as we help you narrow it down to the ideal golf launch monitor for your needs and budget. But if you’d rather talk it through with an expert, reach out to Indoor Golf Outlet.

We’re your trusted choice for a portable launch monitor online with the full lineup from the best brands the industry has to offer, including Garmin and Bushnell. Get a personalized recommendation today!

Quick Comparison of the Garmin R50 vs Bushnell Launch Pro

Quick Comparison	Garmin Approach R50	Bushnell Launch Pro (Circle B Edition)
Price	$4,999.99	$1,499.99–$2,499.99
Tracking Technology	3 high-speed cameras	3-camera photometric system (infrared, auto-calibrating)
Indoor / Outdoor Use	Indoor + outdoor	Indoor + outdoor
On-Unit Display	10" built-in touchscreen	Built-in display (basic shot feedback)
Simulator Use Without a PC	Yes (on-device play + HDMI output)	No (FSX software required for simulator play)
Ball Data Measured	Ball speed, carry distance, total distance, deviation, launch angle, launch direction, spin rate, spin axis, apex height, smash factor	Ball speed, launch angle, launch direction, backspin, sidespin, spin axis, carry distance, total distance
Club Data Measured	Club speed, club path, face angle, angle of attack, tempo	Club speed, path, face angle, angle of attack, smash factor (available with software plan)
Club Stickers Required	Yes (included)	No
Simulator / Course Play	Home Tee Hero (43,000+ courses)	FSX Play / FSX 2020 / FSX Pro (software-based)

Overview of the Garmin Approach R50

This Garmin launch monitor is one of the most revolutionary in recent memory. It works the moment you power it on and unlocks a full simulator experience, no matter where you are. 

It combines ball and club tracking, simulator play, and shot review into one self-contained unit. No need for a separate computer during most sessions. Three high-speed cameras capture impact and early ball flight. Then, you can review numbers, watch impact footage, and manage practice sessions directly on the device’s built-in 10” color touchscreen.

The R50 tracks ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, spin axis, carry, total distance, and apex height. It also measures club speed, face angle, path, angle of attack, tempo, and smash factor using included club stickers (250). Another really cool feature is the built-in barometer, which adjusts distances based on elevations so you can keep yardages consistent anywhere.

There’s no other launch monitor that’s this easy to use. You can play virtual golf through Garmin’s Home Tee Hero with access to over 43,000 courses, mirror gameplay to a TV or projector through HDMI, and track long-term performance in the Garmin Golf app.

Set expectations around what the R50 is built for, though. It’s great for convenience and all-in-one functionality. It might leave you underwhelmed in terms of deep third-party simulator flexibility. It’s not cheap at roughly $5,000, either. 

Overview of the Bushnell Launch Pro

This Bushnell launch monitor brings you tour-style ball data in a more compact, ground-based unit. It’s powered by a three-camera photometric system that consistently captures impact and early ball flight. 

The unit sits next to the ball, reads shots right after contact, and delivers the same type of optical tracking you’d see in commercial fitting environments.

There are two versions, and the difference matters.

The Launch Pro Circle B Edition is the full indoor-and-outdoor model. It can be taken to the driving range, used in natural light, and paired with Foresight’s FSX software for simulator play. You get flexibility if you plan to practice both at home and outside, or want a portable device.

The Launch Pro Indoor Circle B Edition is built strictly for simulator use. It uses the same camera system but has been tuned for controlled indoor lighting. It costs less and makes sense if the unit will live permanently in a garage, basement, or dedicated golf room.

Both models track core ball data - ball speed, launch angle, spin rates, spin axis, carry, and total distance. Club speed, path, face angle, and angle of attack is available depending on the software plan you run.

The Launch Pro works best when paired with a PC and FSX software. It’s roughly half the price of the Garmin R50 launch monitor, but you get what you pay for in capabilities. Most golfers purchase a separate screen, computer, and other components to bring their simulator to life. 

How Does the Foresight GC3 Weigh In?

If you’ve read our Garmin Approach R50 vs GC3 comparison, you’re probably thinking to yourself…all this sounds pretty familiar! Well, that’s because the Foresight launch monitor is more or less the same thing as the Bushnell launch monitor.

The two brands are owned by the same parent company (Vista Outdoor). Foresight was originally selling the GC3 launch monitor, and Bushnell decided to rebrand it for their own catalog. So what’s the difference?

The technology is the same. It’s what you’re paying and what you get that differs between the two. Software is included in your purchase price of the Foresight GC3, which is why it’s more expensive. You’ll pay recurring subscription fees for the Bushnell Launch Pro.

Now, let’s get back to the real comparison at hand - the Garmin R50 vs Bushnell Launch Pro.

Garmin Approach R50 vs Bushnell Launch Pro: Side-by-Side Comparison

These two launch monitors sit in very different lanes, even though they’re often cross-shopped. One is built to run everything from a single device, the other is meant to be part of a traditional simulator setup. Here’s what you need to know about the Bushnell Launch Pro vs Garmin R50.

Getting Started

We think the Garmin R50 is among the only true plug-and-play launch monitors on the market. The unboxing experience is seamless. Then, you just place the unit downrange, turn it on, and run your entire session from the built-in 10” touchscreen. 

Sure, you can connect to a TV or projector through HDMI if you want a bigger screen and more immersive experience - but you don’t NEED a computer to get swinging. Practice modes, simulator play, impact video, and data review all live on the device itself.

On the other hand, the Bushnell Launch Pro is more traditional in that the unit sits next to the ball and connects to compatible software through a PC. There’s a bit more work involved in the initial setup process - you’ll dial in ball position, confirm lighting, and pair with FSX software. 

It’s not exactly difficult or time-consuming, but the advantage here definitely goes to the Garmin R50.

Portability

Both of these units are portable, but we find that it’s easier to take the Garmin R50 to and from the range, even though it is a little heavier at 9 lbs compared to 5 lbs. That’s because the carrying case it comes with is incredibly user-friendly.

But it’s also because of the overall design. The R50 is totally self-contained with an internal battery and screen. You don’t need to pull out a phone or tablet on the range to use the device. It’s not pocket-sized by any means, but we still think it’s more practical for on-the-go use.

In contrast, the Bushnell Launch Pro will require a secondary device for visuals - be it a PC, tablet, or monitor. The built-in screen just gives you a few key ball/club data points. The device doesn’t come with a carrying case, either. You can buy one for another $300+ or use a backpack.

All that being said, some consider the Bushnell Launch Pro to be a better fit for on-the-go use because of battery life. It lasts up to 7 hours on a single charge, whereas the Garmin Approach R50 only lasts 4 hours in a best case scenario. 

Ball and Club Data

There’s some overlap between the Garmin R50 vs Bushnell Launch Pro here in that both launch monitors rely on three-camera systems. But there’s a bit of nuance here. 

Data Category	Garmin Approach R50	Bushnell Launch Pro
Ball Speed	✔	✔
Launch Angle	✔	✔
Launch Direction / Side Angle	✔	✔
Spin Rate	✔	✔
Spin Axis	✔	✔
Backspin / Sidespin	Calculated via spin rate & axis	Measured directly
Carry Distance	✔	✔
Total Distance	✔	✔
Offline / Deviation Distance	✔	—
Apex Height	✔	—
Club Data
Club Speed	✔	✔
Club Path	✔	✔
Face Angle	✔	✔
Angle of Attack	✔	✔
Tempo	✔	—
Smash Factor	✔	✔

There are two other big differences between the Bushnell Launch Pro vs Garmin R50 as far as what’s tracked and how it’s tracked. You’ll need a certain subscription to gain access to club data with the Bushnell Launch Pro, but it comes standard with the Garmin Approach R50.

That being said, you’ll need to use club stickers to track club data with the Garmin Approach R50. The Bushnell Launch Pro, however, works without stickers which is a bit more convenient.

Performance Indoors and Outdoors

The beauty of portable launch monitors like the Garmin R50 and Bushnell Launch Pro is being able to use them anytime, anywhere. But it’s important to set your expectations as far as how well each works in different environments.

The Garmin R50 handles outdoor practice beautifully and benefits from its built-in barometer to adjust distances based on elevation and location. It works just as well indoors.

Remember, though, there are two different versions of the Bushnell Launch Pro Circle B Edition. The main variation works indoors and outdoors, so you get a better level of flexibility. There’s also an indoor-tuned variant, though, that’s best used in dedicated simulator spaces.

That’s important to think about if you’re leaning towards the Bushnell launch monitor. You save a ton of money if you’re just looking for something to use indoors, as that version is only $1,499. That means you have around $3,500 to dedicate to other components in your setup, be it an impact screen, gaming PC, projector, or anything in between. 

Speaking of indoor golf simulators…

The Simulation Experience

The Garmin R50 runs simulator play directly through Garmin’s Home Tee Hero platform, where you’ll gain access to more than 43,000 courses. Everything happens on the unit or through an HDMI output. 

It’s a smooth, intuitive experience, but you’re staying within Garmin’s ecosystem. Third-party expansion is a bit limited. That might be a dealbreaker - but it’s where the Bushnell Launch Pro shines. This launch monitor is built around Foresight’s FSX software. 

FSX Play and FSX 2020 deliver structured practice, course play, and realistic ball flight visuals. It feels closer to what you’d find in a commercial simulator studio, but you will need a capable PC and software licenses. Keep that in mind as you’re thinking about setup complexity and cost.

Upfront and Ongoing Costs

We find that a lot of our customers end up choosing between the Garmin R50 vs Bushnell Launch Pro based on price, but it’s worth budgeting for ongoing costs along with the upfront costs:

• Garmin Approach R50: $4,999
• Bushnell Launch Pro Circle B Edition: $2,499
• Bushnell Launch Pro Indoor Circle B Edition: $1,499

What about ongoing subscription costs, though? 

Most functionality is available right away with the Garmin R50, with optional Garmin ecosystem features layered on top. You pay more upfront, but you’re getting a complete system in one box.

Meanwhile, the entry cost is lower for Bushnell Launch Pro launch monitors but FSX plans add recurring expenses that grow with how much simulator play you want. You need to think carefully about how you anticipate using the launch monitor to figure out what you really pay.

Let Indoor Golf Outlet Deliver a Tailored Recommendation!

We know these two launch monitors inside and out, and our experts are on standby to walk you through what matters most. Let us help you make the right choice between the Garmin R50 vs Bushnell Launch Pro.

Not only can we compare the two in the context of your simulator space or how you envision using a launch monitor, but we can help you get the best deal online thanks to our close working relationships with Bushnell and Garmin. We also offer hassle-free financing.

Most importantly, you can count on us for ongoing support long after the sale. Whether you need help troubleshooting an issue or want to scale up your simulator space over time, we’re here for you from A to Z.

Whether you’re looking for the best launch monitor under $1,000 or the best golf launch monitor money can buy, expect the same commitment from our customer care team every step of the way. It all starts with a conversation, so get in touch today!

Parting Thoughts on the Bushnell Launch Pro vs Garmin R50 

This Garmin R50 vs Bushnell Launch Pro comparison should leave you ready to make your decision. These are two great portable launch monitors, but they’re different enough that one is likely an obvious fit for your needs:

• Choose the Garmin Approach R50 for a self-contained launch monitor and simulator in one unit and minimal setup every time you practice.
• Choose the Bushnell Launch Pro if you want studio-style ball tracking and the flexibility to build your setup piece by piece. 

You can learn more about the Uneekor EYE MINI LITE vs Bushnell Launch Pro or compare other options like Uneekor vs Foresight in our blog if you’d like. Otherwise, all that’s left to do is take the next step at Indoor Golf Outlet. Shop today and upgrade your practice/simulator play!