Training Aids Launch Monitors: How to Practise Smarter and Play Better

Whether you're working on your swing in the garden, hitting balls at the range, or just trying to stay sharp between rounds, using golf training aids and launch monitors can make a huge difference to your game. These tools aren’t just for the pros anymore. With the right setup, everyday golfers can now get instant feedback, develop consistency, and track measurable progress—all without booking a lesson or paying for simulator time.

In this post, we’ll break down the key types of golf training aids, explain how launch monitors work, and highlight three of the most impressive models we currently offer at Only Birdies.

Why Use Golf Training Aids?

Training aids are designed to help golfers improve specific aspects of their technique. From swing path to grip pressure, tempo to putting stroke, there's a training tool for nearly every part of your game. Used properly, these aids can help you:

• Build muscle memory

• Correct bad habits

• Improve alignment and balance

• Increase swing speed and rhythm

• Sharpen your short game

Many of them are compact, easy to set up, and ideal for use at home or on the practice green. They’re particularly useful if you’re working with limited time or space, but still want to make meaningful improvements.

Some of the most popular training aids include putting mats, alignment sticks, swing trainers, and impact bags. These tools help reinforce good habits and turn casual practice into focused, productive sessions.

What Is a Launch Monitor?

A launch monitor is a device that captures and analyses data from your golf swing and ball flight. Using radar or camera-based tracking, launch monitors measure key performance metrics such as:

• Ball speed

• Clubhead speed

• Launch angle

• Carry and total distance

• Spin rate

• Smash factor

• Shot shape and dispersion

This data allows golfers to understand how their swing affects the flight of the ball. Whether you're trying to find the right shaft, gap test your wedges, or simply improve consistency, launch monitors provide instant, accurate feedback that helps you improve faster.

Indoor vs Outdoor Use

One of the biggest benefits of modern launch monitors is versatility. Many models now work indoors as well as outdoors, so you can use them at home with a net, in your garage, or out on the range.

When using a monitor indoors, lighting, space, and positioning are important. Outdoors, having a clear line of sight and level surface usually gives the best results. Each model is different, so always check the product specifications for recommended setup.

Do I Need a Subscription?

Some launch monitors offer basic data for free, while others unlock premium features—such as advanced analytics or simulation software—through optional subscriptions. This is worth considering if you're looking for more in-depth practice sessions or want access to a virtual golf course environment.

Now let’s look at three of the top launch monitors available right now on Only Birdies.

Rapsodo MLM2PRO

The Rapsodo MLM2PRO is a standout device that combines cutting-edge technology with real usability. It’s lightweight, portable, and captures a full suite of ball and club data. What sets it apart is its dual-camera system, which gives you both shot tracking and slow-motion swing video.

You can use it indoors with a net or outside at the range, and it integrates with your phone or tablet via the Rapsodo app. With simulation options, video playback, and detailed performance metrics, it's a great tool for players who want to practise with purpose.

Voice Caddie SC4 PRO

The Voice Caddie SC4 PRO offers a strong mix of accuracy, versatility, and value. It tracks key metrics including spin rate, ball speed, side spin, launch angle, and carry distance—all powered by Voice Caddie’s advanced ProMetrics engine.

What makes the SC4 PRO unique is its Swing Speed Mode, which provides instant feedback on your swing speed without needing to hit a ball. This makes it a great option for indoor training sessions where space might be limited.

It pairs with the Voice Caddie app (currently available on iOS) for 3D range visualisation, stat tracking, and real-time shot feedback, giving you a complete practice experience.

FlightScope Mevo+

For players who want the ultimate portable launch monitor, the FlightScope Mevo+ is one of the most powerful and feature-rich options on the market. It uses radar technology to capture over 20 data points including club path, face angle, angle of attack, and spin axis.

The Mevo+ is compatible with simulation software like E6 Connect, making it an ideal choice for building a home simulator setup. It also records your swing video with data overlay, so you can see exactly what’s happening at impact and make informed adjustments.

It’s a favourite among advanced players and coaches, but still intuitive enough for committed amateur golfers.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're working on your swing plane, trying to dial in your wedges, or just want to make your practice sessions more productive, training aids and launch monitors offer a huge return on investment.

At Only Birdies, we’re proud to stock a growing range of performance-focused golf tech to suit players of all levels. From compact putting tools to pro-grade launch monitors, our goal is to help you play better, practise smarter, and enjoy the game more.

If you’re not sure which model is right for your setup, feel free to get in touch—we’re happy to help you choose the best tool for your goals.