Garmin R50 vs SkyTrak+: All-In vs Subscription
$4,499 All-In vs $1,495 Plus Subscriptions
R50 ($4,499 everything included) vs SkyTrak+ ($1,495 + subscriptions). The 5-year cost narrows the gap. The all-in-one experience widens it again.
The Short Answer
R50 ($4,499 everything included) vs SkyTrak+ ($1,495 + subscriptions). The 5-year cost narrows the gap. The all-in-one experience widens it again.
Need the full picture on costs? 5-Year Total Cost of Ownership → with software subscriptions, mats that wear out, and the hidden expenses nobody talks about.
The SkyTrak+ wins for most people. It costs $3,000 less upfront, delivers the same photometric accuracy tier, and works with every major simulator platform. The R50 is the better all-in-one package — built-in screen, putting, HDMI — but you pay a massive premium for convenience. Most home sim builders should buy the SkyTrak+ and spend the savings on a better enclosure and projector. For most people, the SkyTrak+ is the better choice.