Should I Take Lessons or Buy a Launch Monitor?

For most 5–20 handicaps, lessons win. A launch monitor is a measurement device — it can't tell you why your face is open at impact. A coach can. Buy the launch monitor after lessons have stalled, not before.

When lessons are right

• You don't know what your swing is actually doing.
• You've never seen yourself on video.
• Your handicap has plateaued for 12+ months.

When a launch monitor is right

• You've taken 5+ lessons and know your swing tendencies.
• You practice 3+ times a week and want feedback at home.
• You're fitting clubs or working on distance gapping.