Best Golf Balls 2026 - The nine best models I have tested
After thorough testing of a wide range of models, we take a look at the best golf balls currently available on the market
Golf ball manufacturers spend fortunes on research and development to come up with golf balls that are specifically designed for different swing speeds, skill levels and preferences, but it isn't always easy for us to know which is the best ball to suit our game.
Perhaps you want one of the best golf balls from a distance perspective? Or one that spins less and will fly straighter from the tee? Maybe you are an older golfer who has lost some clubhead speed and needs a lower compression golf ball to compensate?
Most brands will all have a premium 'tour level' golf ball but that doesn’t mean it’s the ‘best’ golf ball. It just means it’s the best for golfers of a certain skill level. Unsurprisingly though, the best premium golf balls are expensive, so if you tend to lose a lot of balls during a round and aren’t the most skilled player, you will want something that still performs well but isn’t going to cost you a fortune in lost balls every time you play.
The good news is that there are plenty of those options out there in other categories like the best value golf balls as well as the best mid-price golf balls. We’ve tested all of the leading options currently available and these are our very top picks, and we would also appreciate some feedback into what you look for in golf balls with our poll below too.
Best Golf Balls 2026
Top pick
First up I have selected the Titleist Pro V1, a model that has always had its place on the Mount Rushmore of premium golf balls, and the 2025 version does nothing but cement its position at the top of the game.
Continuing from the previous 2023 iteration we have the 388 tetrahedral dimple design for distance optimization and a penetrating and consistent flight as well as a soft cast Urethane Elastomer cover for exceptional greenside spin. All these things combine to create one of the best golf balls for total performance on every type of shot. In my testing I found it delivered a soft, responsive feel whilst providing a little extra distance from the tee that will be well received by regular users.
Ball flight off the tee is now increasingly consistent and stable, performing exceptionally well in windy conditions by cutting through the draft. I didn't see any major drop offs in distance when hitting into the wind and crosswinds also had limited impact on trajectory which was fantastic to see.
The Pro V1 really excelled when I had iron in my hand during testing. I felt in control of the golf ball no matter the distance and well hit shots had consistent carry numbers. This is a ball that shines with approach shots but performs brilliantly throughout the bag, so it's place at the top is earned.
- Read our full Titleist Pro V1 Golf Ball Review
Best soft feel
The major talking point of the 2026 Chrome Tour golf ball is its new Tour Fast Mantle technology which provides a stiffer, more elastic material that acts like a powerful spring. Combined with what Callaway call their "Advanced Seamless Tour Aero" dimple pattern, the ball is engineered to reduce drag and provide a stable, penetrating flight even in windy conditions.
This ball mightily impressed me during testing, delivering on the promise of low long-game spin. I also noticed my iron shots had a lower spinning profile, prioritizing speed and flight stability over pure workability. That doesn't mean the ball always flies high - the ball still reached high peak height during testing, but rather it allows skilled players to really flight their shots without losing distance thanks to scrubbing off excess spin. Speaking of distance, it was noticeable how this ball still delivered a soft feel without compromising that distance as well.
Around the greens, the Chrome Tour offers a soft yet highly controlled feel that provides enough responsiveness for delicate wedge shots. It generated impressive spin numbers, offering the 'drop-and-stop' performance required for attacking tucked pins. Overall, the 2026 Chrome Tour it is an outstanding premium option for golfers seeking a complete package of exceptional speed, a soft feel, consistent flight, and reliable short-game control.
- Read our full Callaway Chrome Tour 2026 Golf Ball Review
Best in the wind
Like the TP5x below, the TP5 has been updated in 2026, and like its low-spinning sibling benefits from a new dimple pattern and paint application. The Tour Flight pattern is designed to stop the ball from ballooning, which was a criticism of the previous model. In my testing this constant ball flight performance was noticeable and there wasn't any ballooning even in the wind. With the irons this consistency remained, with a marriage of ball speed and spin rate that translated to plenty of carry but also a peak height that encouraged us to go after some tricky pins, albeit in fairly soft conditions.
Fortunately, all the new technology hasn’t affected the feel of the TP5. In fact, it might just be softer than ever. Remarkably it achieves this without any loss of distance. In my testing, I was slightly longer with the TP5 compared to the TP5x with the driver in my hands; ball speeds of close to 168mph was impressive given just how soft this ball feels off the face. Coupled with some pretty optimum launch and spin numbers I was able to get over the 300-yard mark.
Around the green, the TP5 proved to be outstanding, serving up the high spin and soft feel that really builds confidence; the cast urethane cover really grabs the face and I was able to chip and pitch aggressively as a result, knowing that the ball would check when required.
In summary, the TP5 is high launching, low spinning off the tee and proved to be exceptionally stable in the wind. It also gave bags of spin and control around the green.
- Read our full TaylorMade TP5 2026 Golf Ball Review
Best value
I was blown away with the performance of the Pro X golf ball during testing. The only real downside is the brand - Mizuno, solely from the sense that they are more so known for their clubs than their golf balls. If you can get used to staring at a Mizuno logo whilst standing over the ball instead of Titleist or TaylorMade, then you enjoy all the benefits this terrific option has to offer.
During testing I found both exceptional ball speed and distance, with the numbers showing the Pro X flew further than the Srixon Z-Star XV and seven yards longer than the previous generation Titleist Pro V1x. With iron in hand the ball flight was high but both controlled and consistent, whilst the feel of the ball around the greens is superb. It felt very responsive while chipping and soft with putter in hand on the green.
With all this performance, it's very surprising how cheap this golf ball is. It comes in at a price point noticeably cheaper than the best premium golf balls and yet performs as good if not better than a lot of the market leading options. It is without doubt one of the best golf balls on the market at the moment and I recommend trying it out for yourselves.
- Read our full Mizuno Pro X Golf Ball Review
Most underrated
The title for my review of the Diamond version of the Z-Star speaks for itself - ‘It’s Incredibly Underrated’ - The New Golf Ball Everyone Should Play'. The Diamond is arguably the best of the trio of Z-Star golf balls in the current range. Srixon claim the XV is the longest ball of the Z-Star family but I found the Diamond kept up with it during my testing. It also produced lower trajectory and spin - perfect for those looking to hit the ball lower or who play often in windy conditions.
Where the Diamond really stands out is with iron in hand. Distance with a 7-iron was comparable with the other models while offering a touch more spin. On a full sand wedge shot, the Z-Star Diamond was spinning over 1000rpm more than the Z-Star and 700rpm more than the Z-Star XV. It also finds a lovely middle ground between the soft feel of the Z-Star and the firm, almost harsh feel of the XV.
It's no wonder Srixon's tour players play the Diamond, most notably Brooks Koepka and Shane Lowry. Long off the tee whilst also providing loads of spin for those shorter iron and wedge shots means this should be one to consider from this guide.
- Read our full Srixon Z-Star Diamond Golf Ball Review
Tour favorite
Like the Pro V1 above, the Pro V1x also got upgraded from the 2023 version in two main categories - it's now faster, particularly off the tee, and is now lower spinning throughout the bag. It boasts a four layer construction compared to three inside the regular Pro V1, allowing it to spin more on full swing shots and additionally have a slightly firmer feel.
During testing I saw a 0.5mph speed increase compared to the older model. My carry distance increased by three yards and total distance increased by four - this doesn't sound like a lot, but I'd confidently say most golfers will see at least a 1mph speed gain by switching the newer model and even increases that sound minimal have a bigger effect when out on the course. I found short game feel remained exceptional as well.
This ball flies as strong as anything on the market, making it one of the best golf balls for distance. I noticed when trying it out that I could carry trees or hazards that previously required my Sunday best strike. The 'X' does feel noticeably firmer than the regular Pro V1, but this is an observation rather than a criticism. Overall, given the total performance on offer here it does not surprise me so many professional golfers opt for the Pro V1x at the moment.
- Read our full Titleist Pro V1x Golf Ball Review
Best for launch
Like the regular Chrome Soft from the 2026 cycle, the Chrome X is centered around the new Tour Fast Mantle Technology which, alongside the high-flex modulus materials, makes this ball 16% more responsive than previous iterations. This led to more ball speed in testing, roughly 2mph faster than competing models, and I thought it was noticeable how it delivered a high launch as well which can definitely help those get the ball into the air faster.
What differs the X from the regular Chrome Tour is the firmer feel and enhanced workability. Whilst spin levels with the driver remain low for a penetrative flight, it generates a lot more spin with the irons - roughly 700rpm than the standard Chrome Tour with irons.
The short game performance is defined by a distinct 'clicky' and tactile feedback that aids in distance control. This firmer acoustic is particularly beneficial on the putting green, where it provides immediate sensory feedback on the pace of the strike. While the side stamp could be more prominent for alignment purposes, the overall package of speed, launch, durability, and high-spin control makes the Chrome Tour X an outstanding choice for better players.
- Read our full Callaway Chrome Tour X 2026 Golf Ball Review
Best ball speed
The TPX5 has been updated for 2026, sold with the headline of being TaylorMade’s ‘lowest spinning, fastest five-layer tour ball. To do this it says it’s equipped the ball with a new dimple pattern and a micro-coating process that eliminates paint build up in the dimples as well as re-designing the mantle layers to be stiffer, which it says helps to maximize energy transfer at impact, But has it worked?
The short answer is yes. In my testing in our new Performance Lab, I noticed some ball speed gains compared to the previous model. Combined with a low spin rate I was seeing a penetrating, consistent ball flight and in my outdoor testing the rollout was good too.
With the irons the low-spin theme continues, making for a piercing flight and a shallower descent; fine if you’re playing on soft greens but perhaps not best suited to super firm greens. That said if you suffer from a ballooning ball flight with your irons and are looking for a lower, more consistent flight that the TP5x should help rather than hinder.
The ball’s distance attributes does mean it’s a tad firm when chipping and pitching, and it doesn't deliver the same amount of check as the TP5. With many golf balls there’s a trade-off, and with the TP5x this is it. Overall the TP5x delivers ball speed, launches lower and spins less, which makes it a worthy consideration for anyone looking to gain more distance.
- Read our full TaylorMade TP5x 2026 Golf Ball review
Best low spin
The Bridgestone Tour B X is one of the best golf balls of 2026, designed specifically for golfers with swing speeds exceeding 105 mph who prioritize maximum distance. The new standout feature is the 'VeloSurge' core-mantle integration, which optimizes the way the ball's layers work together to unlock even more ball speed. This technology, combined with the proven REACTIV iQ smart cover, allows the feel to remain firm and fast on high-impact driver shots while staying soft and responsive on shorter, delicate approach shots.
In my testing the ball delivered a high launch, low spin data set off the tee. I averaged 303 yards from the tee which was five yards further than the famous Titleist Pro V1 while maintaining tighter down-range dispersion. Interestingly, the performance gap narrowed in the mid-irons - the ball maintained a towering flight and consistent spin rates that actually slightly exceeded expectations, ensuring plenty of stopping power on firm greens.
The ball also continues to offer the well-received MindSet visual technology, a three-step graphic system on the side of the ball designed to help golfers separate analytical thought from athletic execution during their pre-shot routine. While the feel is on the firmer side of the tour spectrum, the greenside control remains elite with a predictable, aggressive check on chips and pitches. This is Bridgestone's longest ball ever but in my opinion the user still won't have to sacrifice short game precision or control here.
- Read our full Bridgestone Tour B X 2026 Golf Ball Review
How we test golf balls
We take product testing very seriously here at Golf Monthly and we take great pride in the quality of our reviews and buyers guides, which are built upon a rigorous testing procedure as well as the knowledge and experience of a test team that has a sterling reputation in the industry. We always attempt to deliver the key points you want to know in a concise, easy-to-digest manner.
Our specific golf ball testing follows an in depth procedure that ensures we can get controlled data inside, and then see how the golf ball performs outside and then finally out on the golf course. In doing it this way we are able to ensure that we have a more complete picture and we can then pass on our detailed feedback to you.
Specifically I will head to our new Performance Lab studio which is equipped with a Foresight Sports launch monitor and simulator technology. There I will hit 20 balls with a sand wedge, 20 with 7-iron and 20 with driver to take the average from each of those shots.
Then I head onto the course to play a round of golf with them, hitting different shots. Finally I will do a 5 shot driver dispersion test against the leading ball in that category and compare where each of them finished down the hole, via marking them on a GPS image. The outdoor testing really allows me to gauge how the ball performs in real life situations whilst the indoor testing gives me controlled data.
With well over a decade of experience testing golf equipment, from balls and clubs to gadgets and golf bags, we have built a trust between our brand and readership that has and will always remain our priority to maintain. Our goal is to ensure our reviews are as insightful and honest as possible, which is why we must stress that no manufacturer can influence or purchase a positive review. Our dedicated team reports findings exactly as they are. Our objective is to thoroughly and transparently identify the best golf equipment on the market and provide you with truly valuable insights.
Sam, a professional who has competed on the Clutch Pro and EuroPro Tours, has worked in the golf industry for 12 years, offering advice on equipment to all levels of golfers and as Staff Writer, he tests and reviews equipment throughout the bag. He oversees all golf ball testing for Golf Monthly.
Joe, a PGA Professional, has worked in the golf industry for nearly 20 years in a variety of roles. Equipment has always been a huge passion, with Joe producing various reviews and buying advice on a range of clubs and golf balls.
Factors to consider when buying golf balls
Soft or firm?
Top-tier golf balls typically offer companion models that feature reduced spin for those desiring a firmer feel or more driver control. It is essential to test both options from various yardages to establish your personal preference for feel and performance.
Long game or short game?
Which is more important to you; distance off the tee or control round the greens? You can get as much distance as possible out of your golf ball but it may not allow your short game to flourish.
Well we have created guides for both. If you value the former then check out our guide on the best distance golf balls. Or, if you put a real premium on feel, perhaps our best soft feel golf balls guide might be a good next step.
Cover material
The ball's cover significantly impacts performance. While urethane-covered balls provide superior spin control and feel, they come at a substantially higher cost. Golfers should experiment to determine if the performance benefits justify the extra money, or if an excellent mid-price golf ball offers sufficient value. Your skill level will be a key factor in this final decision.
Price
The factor of price is unavoidable. Luckily, most manufacturers produce models at different price points, so you can find a top performer that fits your budget. Wallet-friendly balls can excel in certain areas but often require sacrificing performance elsewhere. While increased cost usually correlates with a better product, your skill level remains the primary determinant of the right choice.
FAQs
What is the #1 golf ball?
Statistically, the Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x are the most used golf balls on Tour. However, top professionals frequently employ models such as the TaylorMade TP5/TP5x, Callaway Chrome Tour, and Srixon Z-Star/XV. This variety underscores a key point: the best ball is subjective. The best ball for you, the reader may not be the best ball for myself, and vice-versa. Since no single ball dominates the Tour, it proves that the optimal choice depends entirely on the golfer's individual game, not a universal ranking.
Which brand of golf ball is best?
Many brands produce exceptional golf balls for all skill levels. Large names like Titleist, Callaway, TaylorMade, Srixon, and Bridgestone offer products ranging from premium Tour-level specifications to balls designed for new players. However, newer brands like PXG and even Mizuno have proven in recent years they can produce golf balls just like those aforementioned giants. Ultimately, defining which brand is "best" is impossible, as the optimal choice always depends on the individual golfer finding the ball best matched to their specific game.
Do golf balls make a difference?
Yes, golf balls influence performance significantly. This is due to variations in spin, launch trajectory and feel, all of which change how the ball responds to your strike. Cosmetic preferences, such as ball color and alignment aids, also factor into the selection process. However, as we've already mentioned, a ball's performance is unique to the golfer; the same Pro V1 will perform differently for an elite player like Scottie Scheffler or Jon Rahm compared to a 15-handicapper. The good news is that most brands produce several models to ensure every golfer can find their ideal match.
For more golf ball buying advice, check out our guides on the best golf balls for beginners, best golf balls for high handicappers, or best cheap golf balls.
