Yes, you can use a launch monitor without a ball. However, the data provided will be limited to clubhead speed, face angle, and club path data. Since there is no ball for the radar to track, metrics like side spin and launch angle are impossible to interpret.
Here are some launch monitors that can be used without a ball:
- PRGR Golf launch monitor
- Trackman
- FlightScope
- Foresight GCQuad
- SkyTrak
If you are looking for a launch monitor that can provide you with data on all aspects of your swing, then you will need to use a ball. However, if you are only interested in clubhead speed, face angle, and club path data, then you can use a launch monitor without a ball.