If you’re obsessed with golf simulators like me, you may be wondering if it’s worth upgrading from a Bushnell Launch Pro or Foresight GC3 to a GCQuad.
As someone who made the switch about a year ago, I want to share my thoughts on the upgrade and whether or not it’s worth it.
Before we dive in, it’s important to note that the Bushnell Launch Pro and the Foresight GC3 are essentially the same launch monitor, just with different branding and pricing.
So, when I refer to one or the other, I’m talking about the same device unless I specifically mention the price.
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When I first got my Launch Pro, I immediately fell in love with its accuracy. Whether it was a small chip shot or a full swing, the Launch Pro delivered consistent and reliable data.
But as a golf simulator enthusiast, I couldn’t help but wonder if I was still missing out on something better, like the Foresight GCQuad.
The GCQuad is widely regarded as one of the best launch monitors on the market, especially for indoor simulator use. It’s used by many PGA Tour professionals and is considered top-of-the-line.
Best in Class
Foresight GCQuad
The gold standard of launch monitors! Trusted by PGA Tour professionals. Use in your golf simulator and on the course!
Last year, Foresight offered a trade-in program where they offered me $4,000 trade-in credit for my Launch Pro, which was $500 more than what I paid for it.
I knew this was a rare opportunity, so I took advantage of it and traded-in my Launch Pro for a GCQuad.
Launch Pro / GC3 vs GCQuad
Now that I’ve had my GCQuad for almost a year, I can share some of the key differences between the two devices and what I like about the GCQuad.
Launch Monitor Display
The display on the GCQuad is larger and more user-friendly compared to the Launch Pro. The numbers are easier to read, and I find myself looking at the GCQuad display for data rather than relying solely on the simulation software.
The Launch Pro / GC3 display is slightly smaller (not by much) but the numbers seemed closer together and it took slightly longer for me to see what I was looking it.
Because of the smaller display I generally ignored it and looked at the data on my simulator screen instead.
Face Impact Location
The GCQuad provides face impact location which is a feature the Launch Pro lacks.
Face Impact Location is the exact point on the club face at which the club makes impact with the golf ball.
I was pleasantly surprised to find a graphical representation of the impact location on the GCQuad display itself rather than just within the software.
I’ve heard many people say this data is overrated because they can simply feel where the ball hit the face or they can spray some foot spray on the club and see the impact location as well.
While I do agree with that I also think seeing an image after every shot with (with no added effort) can help bring impact location to top of mind.
There are so many reasons a golf shot might be struck poorly you can easily forget that hitting the ball in the center of the club face is so important.
Larger Hitting Zone
The GCQuad has a larger hitting zone (14in x 18 in for ball data only or 14in x 14in for ball and club data) compared to the Launch Pro (7 in x 10 in).
This larger hitting area is more convenient and allows for a more casual and relaxed experience.
It’s especially useful when hitting outdoors on real grass, as you can hit more balls without having to reposition the launch monitor.
While there are other differences between the GCQuad and the Launch Pro, these three features have had the most significant impact on my experience with the GCQuad.
Dislikes of GCQuad vs Launch Pro / GC3
There are a few things I don’t like about the GCQuad compared to the Launch Pro.
Extra Fiducials (Stickers)
To get full club data with the GCQuad, you need to place four fiducials (stickers) on the club face.
This is more cumbersome compared to the Launch Pro, which only requires a single sticker at the top center of the club face.
Due to the lower locations of the four stickers with GCQaud, they can get dirty and mashed up more easily, requiring frequent replacement. This can be a hassle, especially when using the clubs outdoors.
You can still use a single sticker at the top center of the club face with GCQuad just like you do with the Launch Pro, but this 1-Dot mode will only provide limited club data (same as Launch Pro) and seems like it defeats the purpose of owning a GCQuad.
On the other hand, these fiducials are what make these Foresight launch monitors so incredibly accurate. They give the launch monitor perfect markers of the club face to measure with their ultra-high speed cameras, rather than relying on a radar signal.
GCQuad Price
The GCQuad is significantly more expensive than both the Launch Pro and GC3. More than double the price of the GC3 Essentials Plus Bundle and more than four times the initial price of the Bushnell Launch Pro.
The good news is that the introduction of the GCQuad Max has lowered the price of the GCQuad.
While the additional features and data points may be valuable for club fitters or professionals, the average golfer may find more value in the Launch Pro or GC3, which offer similar accuracy (the same as far as I can tell) at a lower price point.
In conclusion, if you’re an aspiring tour professional, club fitter, or teaching pro, the GCQuad may be worth the upgrade for its additional features and data.
However, for the average golfer or home golf simulator user, the Launch Pro or GC3 offer excellent value and accuracy at a more affordable price. Consider your specific needs and budget before making a decision.
If you’re considering upgrading to the GCQuad, I hope this article has provided some helpful insights. Feel free to leave any questions in the comments, and don’t forget to check out the links below for more information on golf simulators and accessories.
Favorite Multi-Use
Bushnell Launch Pro
Our favorite launch monitor for those that want portability but excellent use in a golf simulator!
International Pick
Foresight GC3
- Available worldwide
- No subscription
- Full use of Foresight simulation software included
