ST MAX Review: SkyTrak's Newest Launch Monitor

SkyTrak ST MAX Review: Our Expert Breakdown

For over a decade, SkyTrak has been one of the most popular companies in the golf launch monitor space.

When the original SkyTrak launched, it brought commercial-level ball data to golfers for a fraction of the cost and home simulation to the masses. 

Then the SkyTrak+ pushed things further with club data, faster processing, and a more robust overall experience.

Now we have the SkyTrak ST MAX - and a lot of golfers are asking the same question:What exactly is different?

Here’s the basic answer:

The SkyTrak ST MAX is a refinement of the SkyTrak+, but not a leap forward. There are two new main features: Swing Speed Training and an upgraded USB-C port.

Additionally, the price has gone up. The ST MAX now lists for $2,995, and at the time this article was written, SkyTrak has officially discontinued the SkyTrak+ model.

In this article, I’m going to break down the upgrades and the core features of SkyTrak that remain.

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Why This Upgrade Is Confusing

When a new launch monitor arrives, golfers expect three things:

Better accuracy

More data

New software that improves practice or simulation

The ST MAX gives you almost the exact same performance as the SkyTrak+.

You’re getting:

The same ball-flight engine

The same club data

The same simulation options

The same camera + radar system

So if the performance hasn’t changed, here’s what has changed.

Let’s walk through it step by step:

Upgrade #1: Dual USB-C Ports (A Long-Requested Fix)

This is the biggest physical upgrade and one of the most useful.

The ST MAX now has dual USB-C ports that allow simultaneous charging and data transfer. This solves an existing issue with SkyTrak+, where you had to choose between powering the device or using a wired PC connection.

This isn’t a flashy upgrade, but it absolutely improves usability, especially if you’re running a golf simulator full-time.

Upgrade #2: A New Speed-Training Module (Legitimately Useful)

This is the only feature that truly separates the ST MAX from the ST+.

SkyTrak added a dedicated speed-training system that lets you:

Train clubhead speed or total distance

Track personal records and monitor progress over time

Work through the recommended drills from GOLFTEC

Use either your driver or a speed-training stick

Make swings with or without a golf ball

The module includes a long-drive-style practice range and a full dashboard showing:

Club speed

Ball speed

Smash factor

Carry…