Rapsodo MLM Launch Monitor Review: Worth $299?
If you’re looking for a way to practice smarter and get instant feedback on your golf swing without spending thousands, the original Rapsodo MLM might already be on your radar.
When it launched, it was a game-changer—delivering shot tracer video, carry distance, and launch angle for a price golfers could actually afford. But now that the MLM2 Pro exists, you might be wondering: is the original still worth buying today?
In this review, I’ll break down everything you need to know about the Rapsodo MLM: what it does well (and where it falls short), who it’s best for, and how it compares to newer launch monitors. By the end, you’ll know if it’s still a smart buy—or if it makes sense to save for an upgrade.
Rapsodo MLM Review: The Affordable Launch Monitor That Started It All
The original Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor (MLM) first made high-tech practice accessible to avid golfers worldwide. I remember seeing it upon release and thinking, this is so cool!
In fact, it's the "OG" of portable launch monitors. Priced originally at $500 (now under $250) it offers carry distance, launch angle, ball speed, and shot tracer video—all from a lightweight, smartphone-connected device.
It was also incredibly easy to use: place it behind the ball, connect to your phone or tablet, and start swinging. The shot tracer overlays on your swing video quickly, and why it's become so popular. I love that Rapsodo launch monitors make it easy to capture good swings with swing metrics.
While the MLM doesn’t have advanced features like some expensive launch monitors, it still has tons of perks.
Key Features and Benefits
Whether you're hitting on the range, in your basement, backyard, or garage, it can help you learn more about your game. Here’s what you get with the original MLM:
- Shot Tracer Video: Record your swing and overlay a shot tracer on the ball flight.
- Key Data Metrics: Carry distance, ball speed, launch angle, shot shape, and apex height.
- Cloud Shot Library: Store and review your best swings anytime (something I suggest for all my mental golf coaching students).
- Portable & Lightweight: Convenient size and fits in your bag with ease.
- Extremely Affordable Price Point: One of the most budget-friendly launch monitors available, cheaper than a hybrid or fairway wood!
For outdoor practice, it gives you just enough data and visual feedback to improve—without overwhelming you or breaking the bank. Plus, it does work indoors as well if you have enough space.
Setup and Ease of Use
One of the MLM’s biggest selling points is how easy it is to set up:
- Place it behind the ball and align it with your target.
- Connect to the Rapsodo app on your phone or tablet.
- Start swinging—the app handles everything automatically.
It’s ideal if you want no-fuss, quick feedback at the driving range. I've tried some other launch monitors that are way more work and feels like you're more of a tech guy than actually practicing golf. Since it uses your phone’s camera in combination with its own, it does require good lighting and why you need to see better data outside (but does work indoors with enough lighting).
Performance and Accuracy
While it’s not as advanced as radar-based or dual-camera systems, the MLM holds its own when it comes to core metrics. Carry distance and ball speed are very reliable outdoors, and launch angle is within an acceptable range for practice.
Its biggest strength I've found is visual feedback: seeing your actual swing video with shot tracer helps you connect mechanics to ball flight—something few devices in this price range can do.
The downside? Since it’s camera-based, it doesn’t measure spin, club speed, or descent angle. But for the majority of amateur golfers, it's not a huge deal in my opinion.
Pros and Cons of the MLM
✅ Pros
- Lightweight and ultra-portable.
- Fun shot tracer video feature.
- Simple, intuitive app experience.
- Extremely affordable compared to any other launch monitor.
- Great if you are a mid-to-high handicapper who wants feedback.
🚫 Cons
- iOS only.
- Zaps your phone battery quickly.
- Limited data points—no spin or club metrics.
- Video quality and app feel dated compared to newer models.
Who Should Buy the Rapsodo MLM?
The Rapsodo MLM launch monitor remains a great value for golfers who want a portable, affordable way to practice smarter.
✅ Best For:
- Make practice more fun and helpful.
- Golfers who primarily practice outdoors.
- Want swing videos and overlays (great for social media).
- Beginners or mid-handicappers looking for something simple and fun.
- If you're on a tight budget who still want accurate carry distance and ball flight feedback.
🚫 Not Ideal For:
- Those who already own a newer launch monitor.
- Players who want spin rates and more advanced data.
- If you need to practice in a limited space.
At under $250, the MLM is still one of the best entry-level launch monitors available—and an easy way to make range time more productive. Paired with the Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula (75+ plans and a 90-minute masterclass) you'll never waste time on the driving range again.
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re deciding whether to buy the MLM or look elsewhere, here are a few options worth comparing:
- Swing Caddie SC200 Plus: Another great low-cost launch monitor to help you dial in distances and not waste time in practice. Read how the MLM compares with the SC200 here.
- Rapsodo MLM2 Pro: The logical upgrade if you want indoor use, more metrics, and simulation.
- Garmin Approach R10: Similar price but offers simulation and works indoors.
- FlightScope Mevo: Slightly more expensive but adds some additional data and indoor capability. Sadly, this has been discontinued and now only the Mevo Plus is available.
If you’re mostly outdoors and just want something simple, the MLM still holds up. But if you value versatility and more features, it may be worth stepping up to the MLM2 Pro.
Closing Thoughts
If you want a portable, affordable, and fun launch monitor for outdoor practice, the Rapsodo MLM is still a smart choice. It’s not the most advanced, but it delivers on what matters: feedback that helps you improve, and why it made my list of best monitors under $500.
If you have the budget, however, the upgraded MLM2 Pro offers even better accuracy, more features, and the flexibility to practice anywhere — making it a great long-term investment.
