As golf simulation technology becomes increasingly popular among golf lovers who want to be able to practice regardless of weather or time constraints, finding the right impact screen is important. Elite Screens GolfSim Portable, priced at $1,468, is one solution that stands out for its design, durability, and adaptability.

Elite Screens also offers other golf simulation solutions, including the larger GolfSim Bay, as well as standalone impact screen materials for those looking to build a custom setup. However, for most users, the GolfSim Portable strikes the perfect balance between price, performance, and convenience.

Unlike standard impact screens, where the fabric often needs mounting on a separate frame, the GolfSim Portable comes with a frame and mounting components, making setup and takedown simple and hassle-free.

In this review, we will discuss the GolfSim Portable’s unique features, setup process, performance, and versatility, helping you decide if this screen suits your home golf simulation needs. In addtion, check out out video review of the GolfSim Portable screen as well. 

One of the main benefits of GolfSim Portable is in its name – portability. Many impact screens can be bulky and difficult to transport, but Elite Screens has worked to make this model a portable option that can be conveniently stored and transported.  When assembled, the screen is 8x10ft, but the unit comes in a compact five-foot-long box weighing about 44 pounds, allowing easy handling for most individuals and fitting comfortably in a standard-sized car.

Inside the box, you’ll find everything required for installation, including the screen, frame, side rails, and all necessary mounting hardware.

For many users, the ease of setup and disassembly is crucial, particularly for a product that may be used in non-permanent locations like garages or driveways. The GolfSim Portable utilizes a straightforward framing system that doesn’t require complicated tools.

The components connect easily, and Velcro strips attach the screen and sidewalls to the frame, allowing a secure setup without a great deal of effort. Ball bungees also fit through grommets on the corners of the screen to further secure it, ensuring stability against ball impacts.

Another standout aspect of the Elite Screens GolfSim Portable is the material used. The screen is crafted from Elite Screens’ proprietary ImpactWhite™ 350 woven polyester, specifically engineered to handle high-velocity impacts, withstanding strikes up to 150 mph. This is a substantial benefit, ensuring the screen can endure even the most powerful swings without wear or damage.

Assembling the Elite Screens GolfSim Portable screen is a straightforward process designed for user convenience, with a primary focus on ease of setup and durability. It is recommended that two people handle the assembly for maximum efficiency and safety, especially considering the screen’s size. One person can complete the setup, but having an extra set of hands can make the process smoother and quicker. Assembling the screen by myself took around two hours.

Once the frames and screen components are removed from the carrying bag, they should be placed on the included protective sheet to prevent any damage to the screen material during setup.

The aluminum frame, designed for both portability and stability, consists of four folding pieces: the top, bottom, left, and right frames. These frames unfold and lock securely through their central and corner hinges. As each piece is unfolded, the hinges “click” into place, signaling that they’re properly locked, which is essential to maintain the structure’s stability. For added convenience, users should gently lift each section to confirm that the hinge button has fully popped up, which indicates it is securely locked and ready for use.

With the frame set up, the impact screen can now be attached. The screen has a Velcro lining on its back, making it easy to affix to the frame while ensuring a flat, even surface. Elite Screens includes gloves to prevent oils or dirt from hands transferring to the screen, preserving the pristine viewing surface. The screen is carefully aligned along the frame, and users should press and smooth out any wrinkles to maintain a taut surface. For additional security, ball bungees are looped through the screen’s grommets, wrapped under the frame, and hooked back over the ball to hold the screen in place.

The enclosure covers, including the left, right, and top covers, are then attached to the frame to enhance safety and improve the visual aesthetics of the simulator setup. Each cover has a Velcro edge that connects easily to the frame, allowing each side to be attached securely. For example, the left and right covers are affixed to the frame’s sides from bottom to top, ensuring they’re aligned before pressing down for a firm attachment. The top cover is then stretched and fastened across the upper frame to complete the enclosure, creating a contained environment that minimizes stray balls.

The final steps in the assembly process include installing padding along the top frame to enhance safety. Users begin by fastening a protection cover along the frame using Velcro, with short and long padding pieces inserted from left to right. This padding absorbs impact and reduces bounce-back, adding another layer of safety for golfers practicing with high-velocity balls.

One of the GolfSim Portable’s standout qualities is its portability, which makes it easy to assemble, disassemble, and transport. Elite Screens has ensured that users can break down the system and return it to its original bag without difficulty, ideal for individuals who may need to set up the screen in various locations, such as in the garage, driveway, or even temporarily in a room. Whether indoors or outdoors, this screen’s design makes it adaptable to multiple environments, so you can enjoy your golf practice wherever you want.

The screen’s dual-purpose design also makes it ideal for hybrid spaces. Whether you’re striking golf balls or watching a movie, the screen delivers consistently good performance. For those with limited space or budget, the ability to use one screen for multiple purposes can be a significant advantage.

At $1,468, the GolfSim Portable is a great option for those looking to enter the world of golf simulation without building a custom system. While there are DIY options on the market, many lack the durability, quality, and easy setup of this all-in-one solution. Compared to more permanent installations, this screen combines convenience and performance for an affordable price, making it accessible to a broader range of golfers.

For those who factor in the cost of a golf simulator setup with a projector, launch monitor, computer, and golf simulation software, the overall price can reach around $5,000. Although this is a significant investment, it’s notably more affordable than commercial golf simulators and can provide cost savings for dedicated golfers who would otherwise spend more on golf range fees over time.