For a mixed corporate crowd that wants noise, head-to-head competition and a leaderboard, racing simulators usually fit better. For a relaxed gathering, especially one with golfers on the guest list, a golf simulator can be the stronger pick. Both run indoors in any weather. They differ in the space they need, how long each turn takes, and how much energy they create in the room.
Golf Simulators Are More Popular Than You Might Think
Golf is not a niche choice. The National Golf Foundation counts 48.1 million Americans age 6 and older who played golf on or off a course in 2025, including 19 million who played exclusively off-course, at ranges, simulators and venues like Topgolf. NGF's 2025 white paper on simulators reports 8.1 million simulator and screen-golf users in 2024, and that 51% of them are non-golfers who did not play on a course in the past year. So a golf simulator is not just for the club regulars.
Throughput: How Many Guests Get a Turn
Both formats put one person at a time on each unit: one hitter per golf bay, one driver per racing rig. Throughput depends on how many units you bring and how long each turn lasts. Golf turns can be quick if you run a closest-to-the-pin or long-drive contest, and slow if guests play full holes. A racing turn of a few laps is short by design, and with several rigs side by side you can run multi-car races so everyone on the rigs competes at once.
Skill Barrier and Inclusivity
NGF's data shows plenty of non-golfers enjoy simulators, but hitting a golf ball well still takes practice, and some guests feel self-conscious swinging in front of colleagues. Racing feels familiar to anyone who drives, and sim software has driving aids to keep beginners on the road; Assetto Corsa, for example, includes gamer, racer and pro assist profiles. For a group that spans ages, departments and athletic ability, that lowers the bar.
Quick Comparison
| Racing simulator | Golf simulator | |
|---|---|---|
| Players at once | One per rig; rigs can race each other | One hitter per bay |
| Typical turn | A few laps | A shot, a contest or a full hole |
| Skill barrier | Low with driving aids | Moderate; swing skill shows |
| Space | No swing or ball-flight zone | About 15 ft wide, 13 ft high and 21 ft deep on average (NGF) |
| Atmosphere | Loud, competitive | Calm, social |
Energy and Spectator Appeal
A golf simulator is calm and focused, closer to a putting green than a party. Racing is louder: heats, close finishes and a leaderboard keep people watching the next run. If you want a buzzing floor or need to stop foot traffic at a brand activation, racing creates more of a spectacle. If you want conversation, golf leaves more room for it.
Space, Setup and Branding
NGF's operator survey puts the average simulator installation at roughly 15 feet wide, 13 feet high and 21 feet deep including the hitting area, and notes that simulators can be fitted to many spaces as long as there is room for a safe swing. A racing rig needs no swing zone or impact screen; ask us for the footprint of the configuration you want. On branding, rigs can be wrapped and screens can carry sponsor logos; see our experiences.
Cost Considerations
SimsForHire full-motion rigs are $2,750 per rig per day, with a $2,000 event minimum, plus tax and insurance. Volume discounts run from 5% off for 2 to 3 rigs up to 25% off for 10 or more, and staffing is included for up to 4 rigs. Delivery is free within 50 miles of Miami. See pricing for the full breakdown and compare it with golf-simulator quotes for the same headcount and hours.
The Verdict
Golf simulators suit smaller, relaxed gatherings and groups with golfers in them, as long as the room has the height and depth. Racing simulators suit mixed crowds where you want energy, competition and a short turn for everyone. If your event has both audiences, there is no rule against bringing one of each.
Get Started
Not sure which fits your crowd? Call (754) 228-5654 or send an inquiry and we will help you match the format to your headcount, venue and goals for your corporate event.