Bushnell Launch Pro Review: It’s Fantastic, But…
This post was originally published in May 2022 and has been updated in January 2023 to ensure accuracy and reflect current pricing. As of this update, we’re seeing many sales of the Launch Pro through most outlets online with the unit costing $3,499 – or saving you $500 off retail.
The Bushnell Launch Pro came out late in 2021, and it took the golf tech world by storm.
After Bushnell acquired Foresight Sports in the Summer of 2021, a lot of people were left wondering: what are they going to do with it?
The first big product to be released came in the form of the Bushnell Launch Pro launch monitor.
And ever since I first heard that Bushnell had a launch monitor coming out, I’ve been very excited to get my hands on one.
And now, I finally have.
It’s essentially the exact same product as the Foresight GC3 launch monitor, but instead of costing $7,499 it comes in at $3,999*.
*Too good to be true? Maybe. We’ll cover that below.
For the last few weeks, I’ve been putting the Launch Pro through its paces and doing my best to explore all the features it has to offer.
What you’re going to find in this Bushnell Launch Pro review is an honest take on my experience with it, and more importantly, feedback to help you decide if you should buy one or not.
I think you might be surprised with what I found, because to be honest? I’m surprised with what I found.
Ready? Let’s talk Launch Pro.
First Impressions of the Bushnell Launch Pro
Most of the devices I review on Breaking Eighty are consumer-level launch monitors. Products like the Rapsodo MLM, Garmin Approach R10, and even the more prosumer FlightScope Mevo+ are small, light, and portable.
I knew the Launch Pro would be bigger than those devices, but when the package showed up in the mail, I was still a little caught off guard by just how heavy it was.
Taking the Launch Pro out of the box, it’s clear this thing means business.
The Launch Pro truly is a professional launch monitor. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, as from a hardware standpoint it’s a GC3. Straight up. Exact same thing, as far as I’m aware.
Related: GC3 vs. Launch Pro vs. GCQuad
The package comes with the device, a power adapter, an alignment stick, and a small quick-start instruction book.
We’ll get to that “quick start” in a minute.
Bushnell Launch Pro: What’s in the Box
One of the things I immediately appreciate about the Launch Pro is the fact there’s a built-in screen, that’s situated in the perfect position to actually be useful.
The Launch Pro in all it’s glory.
One of the major differences between the Launch Pro and most launch monitors out there is how it captures your data.
Rather than using doppler radar, it uses a series of 3 precision cameras to track your ball and club data.
Because of this, rather than being placed behind the ball like most launch monitors, it’s placed just a couple of feet to the side of where you’ll hit.
This means that when you want to look down to see your stats, it’s right there in front of you.
Other devices force you to turn around, or look at an iPad or computer to get your data. So this quick, perfectly positioned visual is a really nice feature.
I can’t imagine anyone’s first impression of the Launch Pro being anything other than: “wow, this is absolutely everything I expected it to be.”
It looks high-end, it feels high-end, and it truly is a professional launch monitor.
But…
What does that mean if you’re an average consumer who is thinking about picking one up?
There’s some stuff you need to know.
The Launch Pro may be the launch monitor of your dreams and everything you’ve been waiting for.
But there’s a good chance that it’s also….not.
Setting Up the Bushnell Launch Pro (Don’t Let This Scare You…Too Much)
It doesn’t seem like the Bushnell Launch Pro should be difficult to setup.
After all the quick start instructions are very clear and easy to follow.
But my setup process was less than smooth.
I’d like to think I’m a pretty tech-savvy person. I mean, I literally review golf technology products for a living – so using and setting up products should be pretty straightforward.
But I had a very tough time getting the Launch Pro set up properly.
Most of the major problems I think stemmed from wifi connection issues.
Initially, everything seemed straightforward and good to go.
I used the QR code provided on the device to register my product and to setup a Foresight account to get access to the app and features.
We’ll talk more in-depth about subscription features later on, but when you buy the Launch Pro you get their “Basic” subscription which comes with limited data and features.
With that you also get a 30-day trial to their “Gold” subscription to try out everything.
When you login to the Bushnell Launch Pro and the app on the same wifi network, the app should tell the Launch Pro you have the trial, and unlock everything.
It wasn’t doing that for me.
No matter what I did I couldn’t get it to register.
This was a problem that took longer than it should have to solve…
To make things worse, my first time out with the device, I couldn’t get it to register a ball at all. I restarted it three times, and nothing.
I gave up after an hour.
The next time out, I fared a bit better.
I set it up, and it immediately was tracking my shots. App connections and the Gold trial were still a work in progress, however.
Let’s cut to the chase: when setting up and pairing, the wifi can be problematic.
I needed to have my iPad and Launch Pro on the same WiFi network to get it to register the Gold package. At my club, they only have an open WiFi network that doesn’t have a password. With the Launch Pro, you have to use it on a network with a password. I called support, and they verified this.
Apparently, this is a thing with some of these wifi-enabled devices. We ran into a similar problem trying to use a Nanit baby monitor at the Four Seasons Punta Mita last month.
The Launch Pro also wouldn’t recognize my phone hotspot.
If you can connect the Launch Pro via ethernet, or have it be on the same Wifi network as your iPad or computer, it’s a much smoother experience.
Launch Pro connections.
While on the range I connected the app using the WiFi network the Launch Pro puts out, which worked fine. But also since I don’t have a cellular plan on my iPad, it kept me from accessing the internet while I was connected. This was part of the setup frustration with getting the device paired and registered with my Foresight account.
The Launch Pro also doesn’t have Bluetooth built-in, which I feel like could have solved some of these setup issues. For such an expensive device, it would have been nice to see this as an option.
All that to say, it was a multi-hour process to get it setup for me, and even once it was setup, I’ve had some occasional issues with app connectivity. But generally speaking, we’re in much better shape now.
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s get back to talking about how good this device is once you actually get it setup!
I've spent hundreds of hours reviewing golf launch monitors. Take my quick 30 second quiz and I'll tell you which one is right for you!
Using the Bushnell Launch Pro as a Simulator
Now feels like a good time to mention a few things that are going to help you really nail down whether or not this is a product that you should actually consider.
The Bushnell Launch Pro is a professional launch monitor (have I said that enough, yet?)
And as such, some of its features and usability considerations are geared toward pros – rather than the weekend golfer.
First off, depending on which subscription package you get with the Launch Pro, you get access to a variety of simulator courses and experiences.
However, unlike the Mevo+ or even the Approach R10, it does not come with any simulator options that are mobile-compatible.
Both of those grant access to e6, while the Launch Pro uses the Foresight platform.
In order to access simulator features, you’ll need to hook your Launch Pro up to a gaming PC.
I imagine this will be a dealbreaker for a lot of people. I have a souped-up Macbook Pro, but despite decent specs, I’m unable to use that with the Launch Pro.
Let alone getting simulator rounds on my iPad, as I can do with the Mevo+ and R10.
So if you don’t have a dedicated space in your house, and a dedicated PC with gaming specs – you’re only really getting access to half of what the Launch Pro offers.
The good news, however, is that the other half of what it offers is the highest quality, and most accurate launch monitor I’ve ever reviewed.
Worth noting if you’re looking for a dedicated simulator solution, and don’t necessarily need the flexibility of taking your launch monitor to the range, then consider the SkyTrak+. It’s similar in a lot of ways to the Launch Pro, but a bit more user friendly. Here’s our full SkyTrak+ review.
Built off the Foresight GC3, the Bushnell Launch Pro is the most accurate launch monitor we've tested. If you're looking for professional results for a fraction of a Trackman? Definitely consider the Launch Pro.
Using the Bushnell Launch Pro for Practice
One of my requirements when buying a new house last year was (half-jokingly) it needed space for a golf simulator.
We made multiple offers on houses with space for one.
But one of the only downsides to the house we did get, was that there really isn’t enough space to swing a golf club indoors. Both my office and garage ceilings are just a little bit too low.
I didn’t think it would be that big of a deal until I started reviewing so many launch monitors!
That said, when I first got it setup, I was at home in my office.
One of the great things about the Launch Pro is just how quickly you can start using it.
With the Mevo+, you really need to spend a few minutes calibrating and checking the settings before each session.
With the Launch Pro, you literally turn it on, give it 30 seconds to get going, and you’re ready to rock.
Using the Launch Pro with an iPad
Sure you can adjust the particulars in the Foresight FSX Pro app, or use the included alignment stick to make sure it’s properly aligned, but I’ve found it to have very accurate results with little to no tweaking.
I started by placing a ball and putting it in my office.
Immediately got results.
Hit one harder? Softer? The speed adjusted perfectly.
I was actually pretty shocked by how well it worked.
On the range?
Distances seemed damn near perfect when compared with my rangefinder.
Basic statistics showed on the Launch Pro.
Despite being much larger and heavier than anything else I’ve used, I’ve enjoyed using it on the range without the app.
Like I said, in 30 seconds you can be immediately getting pinpoint accurate distances and stats displayed directly on the device.
Very simple.
One thing worth noting is that the display on the Launch Pro has 3 screens that rotate through. One is for registering your ball and hitting. The next has metrics included in the basic package like carry distance, ball speed, total spin rate, and a few others.
The screen you get when you’re ready to hit a ball.
But the third screen includes metrics only included in the Gold Package such as Angle of Attack, Club Path and others.
After each shot it rotates back and forth between these two screens. If you only have the Basic package? It will just show you “—” for all the metrics “Gold” metrics.
I haven’t found any way to turn this off, so far. It’s very annoying, and if you’re planning to use this with just a Basic subscription, this is worth noting.
From an accuracy and usability standpoint, I’ve gotta say, I’m a fan of the camera-based system when compared to doppler systems from less expensive models.
This is in part, as I mentioned, due to the placement of the device. It’s much more convenient to have it right in front of you, and you don’t need 7-8 feet of space behind and in front of you to get results since it’s tracking your club and ball right at impact, as opposed to following it as it flies.
Using the Foresight Sports FSX Pro App
One of the things I’ve loved about the FlightScope Mevo+ is the fact it blends the consumer and professional experience so well.
When you want it to be an easy, consumer-level experience? You can do that. Whether it’s through limiting the stats it gives you, using the device with the FS Skills app, or using the games from e6 or a service like Awesome Golf.
When you want to really dig into the numbers, compare clubs, or anything that requires precise technical data and graphs? You can get all of that too, all within the FS Golf app.
The FSX Pro app definitely leans towards the professional side of things.
It’s not trying to dumb anything down for the casual golfer.
This is meant for people who need accurate data on their golf swing and their clubs, and most importantly, know what to do with that data.
I’ll update this with some better screenshots soon.
So if you’re a total data nerd and you’re trying to compare two different 7 irons, or want to compare results as you make little tweaks to your driver?
The Launch Pro is a fantastic device for that, as it will give you the accuracy and data tools you need to be able to rely on the information you get.
This is what the “Basic” Account looks like for metric options.
The Mevo+ data is very good when it’s setup properly, but I don’t trust it nearly as much as the information I get from the Launch Pro.
Quite simply the Bushnell Launch Pro is the most accurate launch monitor on the market for under $3,000.
Bushnell Launch Pro vs. Foresight GC3: Which One is Right for You?
If you’re reading this review and you know what the Launch Pro is and that it’s what you’re looking for, you have a choice to make.
If you want a professional-level experience for club fitting, hardcore practice, or for a permanent at-home practice or simulator solution, then you may be deciding between the Bushnell Launch Pro and the Foresight GC3.
As we established, they are literally the exact same device. The hardware is identical, and you use the same Foresight apps and software regardless of which device you get.
The difference between these two products comes down to how you pay for them.
For the first 9 or so months after the Bushnell Launch Pro was released it cost $2,999.
The “Basic” subscription package was $99 a year, Silver was $399 a year, and Gold was $799, and to unlock everything for life was $3,995.
So you could get into an “entry-level” version of this for just over $3k with no additional expenses for a year (Basic is included for your first year, and Gold for your first month).
Whereas the cheapest way to get into a GC3 is $7,499 (but it includes everything the Gold Package has, and is unlocked for life).
At this time, it made more sense for most people to choose the Bushnell.
Why?
Because on top of being able to get in for less money upfront, if you chose the “Unlock everything” option, it came in at just under $7k, or around $500 cheaper than the GC3.
$2,999 + $3,995 = $6,994 or $505 cheaper than the GC3.
But in August 2022, the pricing changed
In August of 2022, Bushnell updated the pricing of the Launch Pro – and unfortunately, it didn’t do it in a way most favorable to customers.
The Launch Pro now costs $3,999, or $1,000 more than it used to.
The Basic subscription is $249.
The Silver subscription is $499.
And the Gold subscription was lowered $100 to $699
And the cost to fully unlock it? It went down to $3,499.
Between the latter price drop and the increase in price of the device itself, it brings the pricing directly in line with the GC3.
So there isn’t as much of a benefit to go Launch Pro as there used to be.
That said, Bushnell is now including the FSX Play simulator software in the Unlocked, Golf, and Silver subscription packages – which is a very solid upgrade.
If you still want an incredibly accurate launch monitor, that doesn’t take up much space, and doesn’t cost as much upfront? The Launch Pro is still a great option there.
This also gives you the potential of keeping an eye out for a sale on the subscriptions or “unlock” package at some point in the future.
You can find the differences in Launch Pro subscription packages here.
Bushnell Launch Pro vs. FlightScope Mevo+
There’s another segment of people who are going to be considering the Launch Pro vs. the FlightScope Mevo+.
Honestly? I expected these two products to be more similar than they are.
I think there’s a pretty clear differentiation of who should get one vs. the other.
Buy the Bushnell Launch Pro if:
- Accuracy matters more than anything else
- You’re planning to use it predominantly in a permanent at-home simulator or practice setup
- You’re a golf-teaching professional
- You’re a club-fitter
- It fits within your budget
- It’s important to have a visual data on the launch monitor itself, so you don’t always have to use an app
Buy the FlightScope Mevo+ if:
- You’re planning to use the device predominantly at the range and you want it to be portable
- You’d like to have simulator compatibility without having to shell out for a gaming PC.
- You’re looking for an easier-to-use, more consumer-friendly experience that still offers professional features
- You want to pay one price and have as many features as possible
- You take a “close counts” approach to device accuracy
This isn’t to say a teaching professional can’t absolutely use a Mevo+ or that you can’t absolutely take the Launch Pro out to the range every day.
Both of these launch monitors are excellent at what they do.
The Launch Pro is clearly geared more towards professionals, or professional setups. And while the Mevo+ can be used in a professional-ish environment, it’s consumer-friendly enough for the average golfer to use on a regular basis.
If ease of use is more important than anything? Buy the Mevo+
If accuracy is more important than anything? Buy the Bushnell Launch Pro.
Final Thoughts on the Bushnell Launch Pro
Here’s the thing about my review, and why you should take all of this with a grain of salt: the Bushnell Launch Pro is not made for me.
I really was wishing that it was.
I was so excited to use it. Admittedly once I got it setup properly, I was blown away with it’s accuracy and it’s become really fun to use.
But I’m not an expert at things like tilt axis and face to path.
I don’t have a permanent at-home simulator setup.
I want the data I get to be user-friendly, easy to digest, and I also want the convenience of being able to do everything on an iPad.
Frankly, I’m not a professional in any way.
So the Launch Pro is overkill for me, and I’m not at a point where I’m able to use and leverage all of the great features that come along with the Launch Pro.
If you are that person? 100% you should absolutely buy this launch monitor.
Once you get through the cumbersome setup process you’ll be rewarded with one of the very best golf products on the market.
But if you’re someone like me where you want a very versatile product, that’s more feature-heavy, and can be dumbed down for the average person when need be?
I’d go with the Mevo+.
Built off the Foresight GC3, the Bushnell Launch Pro is the most accurate launch monitor we've tested. If you're looking for professional results for a fraction of a Trackman? Definitely consider the Launch Pro.
This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of the products on this page, I may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn’t affect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all of our reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible.
I've spent hundreds of hours reviewing golf launch monitors. Take my quick 30 second quiz and I'll tell you which one is right for you!
Good Things
- Extremely accurate
- Very well-built
- Professional metrics with both app and simulator functionality
Bad Things
- Subscription model is expensive
- Cumbersome setup
- Need gaming PC for all simulator features
Just curious, do you plan to review the Sky Track? That seems to be more inline pricewise with the Mevo+, but on the optical side of the spectrum. I’m currently trying to decide between the two $2k devices. I like that the Mevo+ is not subscription based but for my setup, I think the SkyTrack might work better. I have the space for the Mevo+ but in that space is a fridge so I’m concerned about the possibility of interference.
Thanks Jeff! I’d definitely like to, just need to get my hands on one. Will keep you posted when/if I do.
Thanks!
Have you reviewed the new “fullswing” monitor hyped by Tiger?
So what happens at the end of the year with a subscription? Does the system go blank and it cant be used at all? Or do you just not get updates? The yearly subscriptions seem pricey.
Hi Sean,
Are you able to use the Bushnell LM on the practice putting green to work on putter path and what not?
Love the reviews.
Cheers
I use mine with my putt out mat in my office for this exact purpose. (GC3)
Sean –
The Bushnell is now, $3,999, a grand more than when you wrote this review! How does this significant change in price change your perspective on it?
Ron
Thanks for the comment Ron, will be updating the review this week!
But the short answer? Between a cost of an extra $1k AND higher basic subscription fees (basic went from $99 to $250 a year, but Gold went from $800 to $700), its getting harder to recommend.
It’s still excellent. It’s still the most accurate launch monitor for the price.
But while they’re raising prices? Flightscope is LOWERING prices on the Mevo Plus. With our coupon code, you can now get the Mevo+ for just a touch over $1700. They also lowered the price of Pro Package to $800, so for about $2500 you’re getting a device that has many of the same features, some that the Bushnell doesn’t have, AND doing it without a subscription and at a fraction of the cost.
Is it as accurate? No. Does it have a built in screen? No. Does it need a lot more space? Yes.
But for my money? It’s the way I’d lean towards going right now after these price changes.
The 3rd screen you saw with all blank club data is an option you can easily turn off.
You are telling the unit to measure club data but Dont have the sticker on your club.
So, tell it to only measure ball data and that “blank” screen doesn’t cycle through after you hit.
Thanks Mike! I must have missed that option, will check it out next time I’m using it.
Good review thanks. Hopefully you do more as it was the kind of information I’ve been looking for for quite some time. Thanks again it’s appreciated. David B
And also the Launch Pro Personal Launch Monitor is only for USA use.