Updated: July 2023 with new content on metrics
In this FlightScope X3 launch monitor review, we will discuss why many golfers believe the X3 is almost as good as a TrackMan–at a much lower cost.
Is the FlightScope X3 as good as a TrackMan? As far as accuracy and portability, it absolutely lives up to the hype! The X3 is just slightly behind the precision of a TrackMan for the best radar-based launch monitor on the market.
However, there are some drawbacks to be aware of (no launch monitor is perfect) and we will cover those in this review.
Launch Monitor Wizard
The Launch Monitor Wizard will walk you through a series of questions designed to find the best launch monitors for your unique purpose. It will then provide a list of the best golf launch monitors that fit your requirements and price range.
The Wizard can be restarted at any time if you make an incorrect selection.
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FlightScope X3 Launch Monitor Review Summary
Tour Pro Accuracy
The FlightScope X3 Fusion Tracking, which utilizes 3D technology to provide real-time tracking of ball flight. This technology is extremely precise.
Ball, Club, & Putting Metrics
Captures ball data & club data for performance insights to help you identify areas you need to improve.
Swing Video
Capture data and automatically clip video from multiple camera feeds for every shot.
Use as a Simulator
Works with all major sim software to bring the course into your home.
$12,995
FlightScope X3 Launch MonItor Overview
The FlightScope X3 is one of the top two radar-based launch monitors you can buy on the market today.
Its main competitor is Trackman, but the FlightScope X3 has some advantages over that launch monitor that we believe makes it a better choice most of the time (Trackman is the leading launch monitor though).
Before jumping into the review, here is a quick look at the main advantages/disadvantages of the X3:
Advantages
- Incredibly accurate
- Full ball and swing data included
- Precise putting and chipping data
- Built-in swing view camera
- Less expensive than GCQuad
- Can use with simulator software
Disadvantages
- Radar-based units have large indoor space requirements
- Radar-based units are not quite as good as photometric launch monitors indoors
- Not quite as good as Trackman indoors
FlightScope X3 Price
The FlightScope X3 is priced at $11,995. The price includes everything and there are no add-ons required for additional functionality.
Who Is FlightScope?
Located in Orlando, Florida, FlightScope is a leading developer & manufacturer of 3D Doppler launch monitors.
The company was founded in 1989 to measure projectiles for the defense industry. They eventually branched out to multiple sports including tennis, cricket, baseball, and golf.
Today, FlightScope is used by top golf instructors, tour players, and fitters throughout the world.
Their FlightScope X3 launch monitor uses a patented Fusion Tracking technology to provide incredibly precise golf measurements.
Using Launch Monitor Metrics To Improve
Precise metrics are at the core of a launch monitor. But do you know how golf launch monitor metrics can improve your game? Most golfers are not aware of what each metric measures and what the data means.
To improve at golf, it is critical to understand these metrics and what they mean. In our post How Golf Launch Monitor Metrics Can Improve Your Game, we explain how you can use launch monitor data to analyze & improve your golf game!
What Makes the FlightScope X3 Unique?
There are several features/technologies that make the FlightScope X3 unique to the launch monitor market. We will highlight them here, and cover in-depth later in this post.
FlightScope Fusion Tracking System
The Fusion Tracking System is a patented system (view the patent) that uses a combination of Doppler radar and imaging to capture the ball flight of their launch monitor.
We will cover this in depth below, but the Fusion Tracking system addresses one of the weaknesses of Doppler launch monitors by combining imaging to improve accuracy.
Multi Camera System
The X3 can capture data and automatically clip video from multiple camera feeds for every shot.
Self-Leveling Feet
The X3 can automatically automatically adjust tilt and roll angles to compensate for uneven surfaces (set via the app). It does this by adjusting the feet on the launch monitor.
Aggressive Pricing
The FlightScope X3 is priced at almost half of what a TrackMan 4 costs. Many tests would indicate the two launch monitors are very close in the precision of their measurements. The X3 is even less expensive that the GCQuad.
For most golfers considering a radar-based launch monitor, the X3 will be the best choice over the TrackMan unless you require the absolute highest levels of precision.
Camera vs Radar Tracking
Todays high-end launch monitors take advantage of camera or radar systems. There is no right or wrong answer. The question is what fits your situation and needs the best.
The FlightScope X3 uses Doppler radar as its main tracking mechanism.
Camera
Technically called “Photometric”, these types of launch monitors use multiple high-speed cameras to capture ball & club data. Photos are captured before and after launch and then sent to proprietary software.
Customized algorithms are used to calculate metrics based on the captured data. In this case, the more cameras, the more accurate the results.
Pros
Cons
Radar
Doppler radar systems measure ball data through the use of radar sensors. They follow the entire flight of the ball until it lands. When they have this line-of-sight, they are very accurate.
Radar-based systems require a clear view of the ball and hitting zone from behind. Because of this, they need a lot of space.
Pros
Cons
FlightScope X3 Radar System
As mentioned above, the X3 primarily uses a Doppler radar system to track ball flight. However, they developed & use (and patented) a system called “Fusion Tracking”
How Does Fusion Tracking Work?
FlightScope’s Fusion Tracking system works by combining imaging (from a camera) with the Doppler radar readings to provide extremely accurate measurements.
The X3 includes multi-frequency radar combined with a Boresight camera for radar and image processing and data fusion.
Doppler radar is already very accurate when it has a full line-of-sight and can track a ball. Adding imaging to the equation makes the data even more precise.
This creates a 3D view of the ball and club measurements which can greatly help with your swing analysis.
FlightScope X3 Accuracy
The FlightScope X3 is extremely accurate outdoors. In fact, many argue the difference between the X3 and TrackMan are negligible.
As long as the X3 has a full line-of-sight to follow the ball, you will get very precise measurements.
Using it indoors, it is not going to be as accurate as a GCQuad. That’s not to say it won’t work, but if your primary use is inside, look at the GCQuad or Uneekor EYE XO as they are both camera-based.
FlightScope X3 Features
$12,995
The X3 launch monitor has a ton of features included. In addition, there are no add-on packages so get this functionality right out of the box.
Data and Video Combined
Capture data and automatically clip video from multiple camera feeds for every shot.
Record lesson and use drawing tools and screencast with voice-overs.
View actual club and ball trace overlayed on video.
Environmental Optimizer
The FlightScope X3 allows you to adjust your environment to for any condition. You can configure:
- Altitude
- Air Temperature
- Relative Landing Height
- Humidity
- Wind Speed and Direction
Wedge D-Plane Data
Improve your wedge game like never before with some of the most precise wedge D-Plane data available.
Full Swing and Short Game Data
Includes 50+ full swing, chipping, pitching, and putting data parameters.
Chipping, Pitching, and Putting: Get data with various features including trajectory, speed graph, and more.
Practice putting from multiple lengths with side-controlled pin placement.
Shot Grouping
Includes shot groups to better understand your tendencies and range of misses.
FlightScope X3 Ball & Club Metrics
The FlightScope X3 captures the following metrics. See our metrics section for details on how to interpret these metrics and how to use them to improve.
Note: FlightScope requires that golf balls have a sticker applied when used indoors.
Ball Data
- Ball Speed
- Vertical Launch Angle
- Horizontal Launch Angle
- Vertical Decent Angle
- Smash Factor
- Spin Rate
- Spin Axis
- Carry Distance
- Roll
- Total Distance
- Lateral Landing
- Apex Height
- Flight Time
- Shot Dispersion
- Distance to Pin
- Skills Score
Club Data
- Club Speed
- Club Speed Profile
- Club Acceleration Profile
- Face Angle
- Face to Path
- Dynamic Loft
- Angle of Attack
- Club Path
- Vertical Swing Plane
- Horizontal Swing Plane
- Spin Loft
FlightScope X3 Software
The FlightScope X3 launch monitor comes with the following software:
The purchase of a FlightScope X3 unit now includes ownership of a unique FlightScope E6 Connect Bundle. See details below.
FlightScope PC Software
There is a 10-day trial & then you need to contact FlightScope to purchase and activate the software.
Features
- Video analysis
- FocusBand integration
- Fullscreen mode
- Short indoor mode (can use in as little as 16′ of space)
- MyFlightScope integration
- BodiTrak Pressure Mat (mat purchased separately)
- Shot groupings
- Club, player & ball comparison functionality
- Chipping mode (min distance of 12′)
- Quick play (hit shots without setting up a session)
- Swing training (practice without hitting balls)
The cost to purchase the software is as follows (per the FlightScope website):
Cost per upgrade:
- Customers with active support agreements: $99
- Customers with no support agreement: $399
- FlightScope does not charge any extra fees for upgrading from older software versions.
FlightScope Video App
A fully customizable interface combining data and video on one screen. Enjoy custom lesson recordings with access to a variety of drawing tools and screencast with voiceover.
FlightScope Short Game App
Chipping, Pitching, and Putting: Get data with various features including trajectory, speed graph, and more. Includes putter & face path tracking as well.
FlightScope VX App
Features
- 3D Swing Analysis (view what cameras cannot see)
- Data Comparison (compare different data points to find the best option)
- Target Alignment (accurately aim the radar sensor in seconds)
- Interchangeable Data Points (choose which data points you want to see)
- Real-time 3D Shot Plot (see your ball flight in real-time 3D)
- Multiplayer (compare multiple players at once)
FlightScope Skills App
Features
- Skills Combine (test skills from 20 yards to 260 yard drive)
- Custom Challenges (create customized challenges and compare to PGA Tour players)
FlightScope MultiCam App
Automatically record and sync videos from multiple video feeds for instant review.
FlightScope X3 Space Requirements & Hitting Area
$12,995
Below are the space requirements for using the X3 with a full swing and then putting/chipping.
Full Swing Space Requirements
| AREA | SENSOR TO TEE DISTANCE | TEE TO SCREEN/NET/TARGET | TOTAL DISTANCE (min) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor | 9 – 14′ | Unrestricted | 9′ |
| Indoor | 9 – 14′ | 13′ | 22′ |
| Long Indoor | 9 – 14′ | 40 yards | 43 yards |
| Short Indoor | 6′ -8′ | 8′ (max less that 13′) | 14′ |
Putting & Chipping Space Requirements
| ACTIVITY | SENSOR TO TEE DISTANCE | TEE TO SCREEN/NET/TARGET | TOTAL DISTANCE (min) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Putting | 5′ | 5′ – 30′ | 10′ |
| Outdoor Chipping | 5′ | 8′-50 yards | 13′ |
| Indoor Chipping | 5′ | 8′ | 13′ |
Simulator Software
When you purchase the FlightScope X3, it now includes ownership of a unique FlightScope E6 Connect Bundle.
This special E6 bundle only includes support for iOS (iPhone & iPad). If you want a true sim experience, you will need to upgrade E6 or purchase simulator software.
You have two choices for your simulator software:
- FlightScope E6 iOS software (or upgrade to full E6)
- 3rd party simulator software
Let’s breakdown the differences between them so you can decide what is best.
Our recommendation is to test out the E6 bundle and then add 3rd party simulation software. This special bundle is limited iOS so you are not getting the true simulator experience.
FlightScope E6 Bundle
E6 Connect is customizable golf simulation software that is integrated with FlightScope to provide an accurate improvement and gaming experience.
You will need a USB-C to HDMI cable to connect your iPad to a projector for the full sim experience is you use this bundle.
Per FlightScope, here is what’s included in the FlightScope E6 Connect iOS Bundle:
6 golf courses
- Aviara
- Stone Canyon
- Wade Hampton
- Sanctuary
- Belfry
- Bay Hill
17 practice ranges
- Practice and play with a purpose on your choice of driving range layouts and skill challenging games
Online games
- Play courses, games, head-to-head matches, and more, online against anyone in the world
iOS Only
- iPad Pro 1 or later
- iPad 5 or later
- iPad Air 3 (Current Version)
- iPad Mini 5 (Current Version)
- iPhone 8 or later
3rd Party Simulator Software
Our recommendation is to purchase 3rd party simulator software. The software is better overall and you can find almost any course in the world in these packages.
We are not going to go into a long review of these, but will give you an overview of the 3 most popular simulator programs. You cannot go wrong with any of these–it’s more a matter of what you want in a golf simulator.
GSPro was designed to be a true to life golf simulator. Featuring 4K graphics, tons of real courses, realistic ball physics, and an advanced physics engine that can account for different lies, deep rough and undulations on the greens.
GSPro
What makes this unique?
- The most realistic ball physics
- The most popular courses in the world
- Constant updates
Summary
GSPro was designed to be a true to life golf simulator. Featuring 4K graphics, realistic ball physics, and an ever growing online community.
In GSPro, it has an advanced physics engine that can account for different lies, deep rough and undulations on the greens.
It also includes a driving range and different skills challenges.
With GSPro you’ll be able to create and play courses built by other indoor golfers in the community.
New courses added weekly including many of the most popular courses worldwide. GSPro is less polished but the ball physics are unmatched.
The Golf Club 2019 (TGC) was created from the popular console video game. It features announcers and crowds which is similar to the Xbox/PlayStation game versions. It also includes a driving range and different skills challenges.
The Golf Club 2019
What makes this unique?
- A smooth video game experience
- Access to over 100k courses (most are user-created)
- Announcers and crowds
Summary
The Golf Club 2019 (TGC) was created from the popular console video game. It features announcers and crowds which is similar to the Xbox/PlayStation game versions.
It also includes a driving range and different skills challenges.
The Golf Club 2019 is pretty polished with some great graphics but has some flaws. It is really geared towards a video game experience on a simulator vs a more accurate experience (like GSPro).
E6 includes Courses, Mini Games, Skills Combines, Training Aids, and more. It includes constant updates.
E6 Connect
What makes this unique?
- Full practice and course package
- Polished interface and graphics
Summary
E6 includes Courses, Mini Games, Skills Combines, Training Aids, and more. It includes constant updates.
E6 also comes with different driving ranges, putting areas, chipping areas, and games for kids.
E6 is more of a combo of GSPro and TGC 2019. However, we would recommend one of those 2 over this due to the price vs. value.
FlightScope X3 vs TrackMan
$12,995
This is the question everyone wants to know. Most golfers have heard of a TrackMan and it is treated as the gold standard for launch monitors. Is the TrackMan better? Yes, it likely is better but the differences are small.
One problem is that launch monitors measure certain parameters differently. So there is not an easy way to compare certain metrics.
For example, the FlightScope X3 measures speed at the club’s first contact with the ball. The TrackMan measures speed at full compression of the ball. Therefore, the metrics will be different and the X3 shows a higher reading.
Is the X3 wrong though? Or is the TrackMan wrong? Or are they both correct? (They are both correct, just different interpretations).
FlightScope X3 Vs TrackMan Similarities
- Both launch monitors are radar-based with imaging enhancements
- Both are best-suited to outdoor use
- Both units are extremely accurate
- Both work with 3rd party golf simulator software
FlightScope X3 Vs TrackMan Differences
- TrackMan costs double what the X3 costs
- They measure speed differently
- TrackMan is slightly more precise outdoors
FlightScope X3 vs GCQuad
This is an easy comparison as these launch monitors are completely different.
The X3 is radar-based and the GCQuad is photometric (camera-based). They are both extremely accurate but are best used in different conditions.
As mentioned above, radar launch monitors work better outdoors where they can track the entire ball flight. Indoors is more challenging.
If you want the best indoor launch monitor (that is still accurate outdoors), get the GCQuad. Or if you have limited space indoors as you need at least 22′ of space for the X3.
If you want an incredibly accurate outdoor launch monitor (that is decent indoors if you meet the space requirements), get the X3.
How To Decide If the FlightScope X3 Is Right For You
$12,995
Here are the reasons why you would purchase the X3:
- You mostly use your launch monitor outdoors AND
- You have at least 22′ feet indoors
Plus
- You don’t want to pay a premium for the TrackMan
- You want the best non-TrackMan radar-based launch monitor
What’s Included
- FlightScope X3 Launch Monitor
- Charging cable
- Backpack
- Ethernet and USB Cables
- Metallic Stickers
Specifications
- Technology: Multi-frequency radar combined with a Boresight camera
- Dimensions: 12″(w) x 1 7/8“(d) x 10″(h)
- Weight: 9 lbs
- Battery: Lithium-Ion Rechargeable
- Battery Charge Time: 8-10 hours
- Battery Run Time: 6 hours
- Data Interface: USB / WiFi / Ethernet
FlightScope X3 Status Lights
Connection LEDS
| STATE | LED |
|---|---|
| System Off | No Light |
| Ready | Blue (solid) |
| Connected (standby) | Green (solid) |
State LEDS
| STATE | LED |
|---|---|
| Power on, Switching on | Blue (flashing) |
| Processor start-up (30-60 sec) | Blue & Green (flashing) |
| Standby mode | Green (solid) |
| Armed, ready to measure | Red (solid) |
| Processor shutdown (15-30 sec) | Blue & Yellow (flashing) |
| Error | Yellow (flashing) |
Launch Data Metrics
The X3 Launch Monitor tracks 3 different kinds of data; Ball Launch data, Club data, and Putting data.
$12,995
Get More Launch Monitor Info
Visit our Launch Monitors page for more information on golf launch monitors, including why to use them, the benefits of launch monitors, and get links to more reviews on premium and luxury golf launch monitors.
