Conor Keenan
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 a distance golf ball, 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.
The Quick List
Recognized as the gold standard among premium golf balls, the 2025 Pro V1 model continues to deliver a powerful, predictable ball flight and exceptional performance across every club in the bag.
The TaylorMade 2025 Tour Response offers a very soft feel alongside strong metrics for ball speed and spin, making it highly competitive in a congested field of competitors.
Two dozen golf balls for $35 is hard to beat. Especially when you consider the nice responsive feel, decent levels of spin, and relatively consistent launch monitor data, these are a strong option at the bottom of the price scale.
Featuring a one of the softest feels of any premium ball, the Chrome Tour delivers remarkable consistency in spin and flight stability. It's an ideal choice for high-spin players and those with faster swing speeds.
As a premium golf ball favored by Tour professionals like Rory McIlroy, the TP5 is an exceptional choice, delivering a combination of good distance, abundant greenside spin and a notably soft feel.
The Z-Star Diamond is both fast and low-spinning with the driver while maintaining excellent control and stopping power with iron shots. Its extreme wedge spin and soft, responsive feel make it a standout option.
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A high-performing premium golf ball that comes in slightly less expensive than rival options, making it even more appealing. Distance and spin numbers are impressive and are now coupled with improved durability.
Offering very strong performance for a mid-priced option, the Titleist 2024 Tour Soft is an excellent all-rounder. It's the perfect ball for players who prioritize a soft feel, especially on and around the greens.
Mizuno are more so known for making some of the best golf irons, but they also make one of the best and most affordable premium-performing golf balls courtesy of the Pro X at just $40 per dozen.
Another strong all-rounder, the Wilson Triad is ideal for the average golfer who might lose a ball or two per round. It achieves good distance in the long game and offers a fantastic feel around the greens, especially when putting.
A classic and long time favorite for many golfers, the Supersoft is a fantastic ball with outstanding performance. Distance for long clubs is impressive and it produces notable control around the greens. The color choices on offer are excellent too.
Another distance ball that comes at the cost of less control around the greens. It’s more suited to the higher handicap player who doesn’t impart much spin on their approach shots and whose primary need is gaining extra yards.
One of the best value for money options on the market, the TaylorMade Distance+ is a two-piece ball that offers many of the benefits that you would expect from a multi-layered ball, but at a more budget friendly price.
Best Golf Balls 2025
Best overall balls
Titleist 2025 Pro V1 Golf Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want to lower your spin: The Pro V1’s high-gradient core is designed to bring down spin and has been updated for 2025.
✅ You want more control around the greens: The Pro V1’s trademark since it came on the scene has been a lovely, soft feel and great short game performance.
NO IF:
❌ You produce a low amount of spin: For golfers looking to increase their spin, the Pro V1x will be a much better choice.
❌ You have a low ball flight: The penetrating ball flight of the Pro V1x makes it difficult for some golfers to get the ball airborne.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Pro V1 is the complete package, providing a strong performance from tee-to-green as well as a soft and responsive feel plus a penetrating, consistent flight. This is a golf ball that will give you full control with any club in the bag and if you want what is widely regarded as the most recognized golf ball on the market, then look no further.
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What you need to know: The Titleist Pro V1 is by far the most well known ball in golf. Since bursting onto the scene in the year 2000, the Pro V1 has established itself as one of the most successful and long running golf equipment franchises in history. It has been the most used ball on the professional circuits for most of that time and it's hard to come up with any franchise that has been more widely played or had more success. To be at the top of the game for so long is quite remarkable, and Pro V1 is now in its 25th year. With this latest update Titleist’s engineers are promising more distance, lower long game spin and a more consistent flight and we can confirm that all of the above was delivered in our testing, as the Pro V1 again cemented its place as the top dog in the premium golf ball category.
Design/Tech: It's becoming more and more difficult for manufacturers to make significant improvements to golf balls, such has been the incredible advancements in technology over the past decade or so, but there are still small gains to be had and Titleist have found a way to make the best even better. The main upgrade in the latest Pro V1 is the high-gradient core, which is firmer at the periphery but gets progressively softer towards the centre. This has resulted in higher ball speeds and lower spin in the long game, while further advancements to the manufacturing process has helped to optimize the consistency in both speed and spin.
Long game performance: The most impressive area of performance for us during testing was with the mid-irons. There was a definite reduction in spin combined with an increase in distance. We loved the flight, which was strong and high with plenty of stopping power, and noted an improvement over the previous model. Off the tee we noted improved performance too, with the most impressive thing for us being the consistency, with the spin numbers only differing by 300rpm. You will lose distance with too much spin off the tee so if that is an issue for you this ball should help you get those numbers down. It also flies quite low, which will benefit the golfer who tends to hit it too high with driver as it should increase the run you get after landing.
Short game performance: With a premium ball, one of basic requirements is low spin in the long game (for accuracy and distance) and more spin in the short game, where control is everything. As always, the Pro V1 ticks both boxes. We mentioned above the reduced spin on longer shots, but at the opposite end of the bag we were easily able to produce plenty of control from pitch and chip shots inside 50 yards. Additionally, the soft feel from the club face makes it easy to attack the hole in the short game with a variety of shots and this exceptional feel should help to boost confidence on those tricky pitch and chip shots.
- Read our full Titleist 2025 Pro V1 Golf Ball Review
Callaway Chrome Tour Golf Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You have a fast swing speed: AThe new Chrome Tour utilises a new Hyperfast Soft core which has been designed to provide as much speed as possible.
✅ You want stability in the wind: Excellent stability is achieved thanks to a pattern of both hexagonal and spherical dimples.
NO IF:
❌ You want to maximize distance: While this ball is fast, it remains fractionally slower off the tee than some of its competitors so if you want to squeeze out every last yard maybe this isn't the ball for you.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Callaway has done a great job with the new Chrome Tour in our view. The idea was to produce a softer feeling ball that has slightly lower spin through the bag and we would certainly confirm that has been achieved. This is a ball which is ideal for the golfer with a high swing speed who doesn’t want to have to throttle back too much to keep their spin down.
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What you need to know: As one of the biggest manufacturers in golf, with Callaway you know that whatever the product, be it drivers, irons, wedges, bags, you name it, you are getting a product that can hold its own against anything else out there. The same goes for golf balls, as Callaway produce a wide variety of products to suit every type of golfer. Their brand new Chrome Tour range is a premium ball that Callaway themselves claim is the 'gold standard Tour ball for better players who want the best in distance and feel'. The proof is in the pudding, and it has already been put in play by many Callaway staffers and it performed superbly for us during testing.
Design/Tech: The introduction of a new Hyperfast Soft core to increase speed is the big tech innovation with the all new Chrome Tour. Along with this new core, Callaway has also introduced a unique a cross-over dimple pattern that is built on both hexagonal and spherical dimples to aid control, especially in windy conditions.
Long game performance: This new dimple pattern certainly does the trick, as in testing we found the performance and stability in windy conditions to be right up there with the best we have ever seen. The speed off the face isn’t quite up there with some other premium balls on the market, but we believe that the pleasantly soft feel and duller acoustics should appeal to a wide range of golfers. Our testing showed that the spin is slightly on the low side, but we certainly didn't see that as an issue and for some golfers that will actually be of real benefit. Overall, it was the consistency on offer that impressed us most in the long game.
Short game performance: We'd certainly describe the Chrome Tour as one of the best soft feel golf balls out there, and around the green and on the putting surface itself we really enjoyed testing this ball and it delivered excellent results. We would suggest that for golfers who generate a lot of spin and are looking to reduce it somewhat, the Chrome Tour is absolutely worth trying.
- Read our full Callaway Chrome Tour Golf Ball Review
TaylorMade 2024 TP5 Golf Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a higher spinning golf ball: The slightly higher spin rate on offer means this ball is designed to help produce control and get the ball airborne with a visually appealing flight.
✅ You like a soft feel: If you prioritize a soft feel, then the TP5 is one of the softer feeling balls within the premium category and should be just what you require.
NO IF:
❌ You are looking for length of the tee: The TP5 is by no means short, but there are longer models available on the market in the premium category if your priority is to maximize your distance.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The TP5 is an excellent offering that - even in a congested premium ball category - we feel stands out for its short-game control, consistency of flight, soft feel and durability. The price point comes in slightly under many of its competitors too making this a very appealing option.
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What you need to know: The TP5 is one of two main premium, tour-played offerings from TaylorMade (the other being the TP5x used by Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood) and it has been updated for 2024. The TP5 is used widely at professional level with Rickie Fowler being the most high profile current pro to use it. We were pleased to note that the excellent spin control and soft feel of previous TP5 models has been further boosted in the new version, and it is still available in the Pix option as well as other limited edition designs.
Design/Tech: In this latest update,TaylorMade has switched the material that makes up the core for a lower density acoustic material that sounds and feels that little bit softer than its predecessor. According to Michael Fox, Senior Director of Product Creation, Golf Balls "We've evolved our golf ball design process by uniquely decoupling feel and speed through material advancement, a complete departure from the conventional.” We certainly noted the change in feel and sound during our testing of this golf ball.
Long game performance: In our testing we discovered that the TP5 is a few miles per hour slower than the TP5x but it did provide a consistent and powerful flight. This partially explains why most tour players prefer the X model, but for golfers looking to add height and carry off the tee this is an excellent option.
Short game performance: While it might be a few yards shorter off the tee than some other premium golf balls, around the greens is where the TP5 really excels and we absolutely loved using it in the short game. The marshmallow soft feel when hitting shots around the greens is hugely appealing, and we noted that the ball seems to stay on the wedge face for an eternity, rolling up the grooves and imparting very impressive levels of grab when on the green. The TP5 is one the best premium balls we've tested on and around the greens and if you value that more than an extra few yards off the tee, this could be the ball for you.
- Read our full TaylorMade 2024 TP5 Golf Ball Review
Srixon Z-Star Diamond Golf Ball 2025
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want more control around the greens: A Spin Skin+ coating digs deeper into the grooves and will provide more stopping power close in.
✅ You have a mid to high swing speed: It is made from a three-piece construction which designed to be hit hard and will produce good results for fast swings.
NO IF:
❌ You’ve got a soft feeling putter: As one of the softest-feeling premium balls out there, it may not match up well with a soft face putter, especially those with face inserts.
❌ Your swing speed is less than 90 mph: The Z-Star has the highest compression in the Z-Star series, so it really requires a faster swing for best results.
THE BOTTOM LINE
This is one of the most under-rated golf balls on the market. In testing it provided incredible spin control in the iron and wedge department, while its innovative dimple pattern helped to keep it straight in windy conditions. This performance combined with its soft feel makes this a very appealing option. No wonder Ryder Cup stars like Koepka and Sepp Straka play this ball.
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What you need to know: Srixon produce a good selection of golf balls to cover all skill levels, with their 2025 Z-Star Diamond being the pick of their premium offerings. The Z-Star is in it’s ninth generation but the Z-Star Diamond is a new offering that was initially designed for Brooks Koepka when he signed with the brand in 2021. This is the second iteration of the Diamond, which has been designed to sit somewhere in between the Z-Star and the Z-Star XV in terms of feel and spin profile.
Design/Tech: While the same excellent urethane cover remains, Srixon has introduced a new Spin Skin+ coating which digs deeper into the grooves of your irons and wedges and therefore provides better control. The core is made from a reformulated FastLayer DG, the result of which is a ball that is soft in the middle and gradually gets firmer as you near the second layer of this three-piece ball. The cover features a 338 dimple pattern, and the only difference between the Diamond and the other Z-Star family members is a slightly firmer core and reduced compression, designed to ‘minimize driver spin for distance off the tee while maintaining greenside spin’
Long game performance: The Z-Star Diamond has a compression of 100 and is unquestionably suited to golfers with higher swing speeds. We really liked how it dealt with windy conditions and the 338 dimple pattern kept the ball under control even when flighted high, which was very impressive. We also noted the firm core doing its job when it came to the distance side of things. According to Srixon, the XV is the longest ball in the Z-Star range but in our testing the Z-Star Diamond kept up in terms of ball speed and distance and with a lower trajectory and less spin, making it ideal for those that want to see a more penetrating ball flight.
Short game performance: When it came to irons and wedges, the Z-Star Diamond really stood head and shoulders above the other balls in the Z-Star family. In our testing, a full sand wedge shot with the Z-Star Diamond was spinning over 1000rpm more than the Z-Star and 700rpm more than the Z-Star XV. This pattern continued on a partial wedge shot where the Z-Star Diamond generated around 800rpm more spin than both the other balls. We were not expecting this sort of difference, especially when Srixon claim it’s the Z-Star that offers the most greenside spin. In our view, around the greens this is the best feeling ball in Srixon’s premium category.
- Read our full Srixon Z-Star Diamond Golf Ball 2025 Review
PXG Xtreme Tour X Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want plenty of launch and spin: The Xtreme Tour X launches high and spins more than other premium golf balls.
✅ You want a slightly cheaper premium ball: At around $40 per dozen, the Tour X delivers high performance for a cheaper price than most other premium options in this guide.
NO IF:
❌ You want a soft feel: This is one of the more firmer premium golf balls money can buy.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Xtreme Tour X golf ball lives up to its name, immediately demonstrating increased ball speed, a higher flight path, and greater spin over the base model. Although the firm feel might not appeal universally, the resulting distance output is highly impressive. Crucially, the enhanced durability of this ball ensures it represents a significant performance upgrade within the PXG lineup.
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What you need to know: The Xtreme Tour X is one half of the impressive Xtreme Tour family from PXG, a brand whose golf balls only seem to be getting better and better. The X is the higher spinning, higher launching option of the two but features notable improvements in terms of durability, something we have marked PXG golf balls down on in the past. At a retail price of around $40, it's one of the best value premium golf balls you can buy.
Design/Tech: The technology behind the Xtreme Tour X is based on a three-piece design. The foundation is a polybutadiene core which is built for generating high ball speed. A firm ionomer mantle layer surrounds this core, designed to boost ball velocity further, particularly for maximum distance with your driver, woods and long irons. Finally, the inclusion of a soft urethane cover ensures the necessary spin, feel, and greenside control are achieved to round off performance.
Long game performance: The main talking point of this golf ball is the distance you can achieve off the tee. During testing the Tour X delivered both more ball speed and spin than the regular Xtreme Tour as well as the TaylorMade TP5x.
Short game performance: While PXG's efforts to enhance the ball's feel were apparent, it remains significantly firmer than tester Joe's 'gamer' ball, the TaylorMade TP5x. Despite this difference in feel, the ball delivered exceptional greenside spin and demonstrated truly excellent durability, particularly considering the rigorous short game work I put it through. If you don't mind a firmer feeling golf ball, you'll be pleased with the performance on offer here from tee to green.
- Read our full PXG Xtreme Tour X Golf Ball Review
Best mid-price balls
TaylorMade 2025 Tour Response Golf Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a cheaper option but premium performance: Coming in at under $40, they are noticeably cheaper than many similar models from other manufacturers.
✅ You struggle with alignment: The Stripe version helps you line up putts, it's not overly distracting and you can choose from a number of different colors.
NO IF:
❌ You are a faster swinger: Those with faster swing speeds may notice a little drop off in ball speed with the driver, but compression of this ball isn’t necessarily designed for high-speed players.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Overall this a great option for anyone looking for a high quality product but who doesn’t want to spend over $50 on a dozen golf balls. Exceptionally soft feeling, plenty durable, consistent, and with the option of some genuinely effective visual technology, there are a lot of golfers who will be choosing this as their ball of choice in 2025.
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What you need to know: TaylorMade is known for its constant innovations to help golfers improve their game and in the Tour Response the company has introduced the Speed Wrapped Core Technology which is used in the Tour-level TP5 and TP5x models. The material used in the process effectively is designed to reduce the density of the core, dampening sound and promoting a faster construction for enhanced ball speed and distance. This is then surrounded by something TaylorMade is referring to as High Flex Material (HFM) which it says allows more ball/face interaction, further enhancing feel and speed.
Design/Tech: To go along with this new Core technology, the 2025 Tour Response balls are constructed with a 100 per cent cast urethane cover looking to reap the benefits of spin while promoting durability. It remains a three-piece ball and comes with a 70-compression, which aims to provide a seriously soft feel
Long game performance: Well the long game performance from this ball in my testing was excellent. Admittedly I did notice a slight drop in ball speed with the driver because of my fast swing speed, but this ball will suit slightly slower swingers massively. They will see a ball that can deliver higher carry yardage which is certainly useful for any golfers who struggle for height and carry distance with driver.
Short game performance: I also enjoyed the short-game performance too. It feels a lot softer at impact when comparing against the TP5x, and I enjoyed this sensation, especially with the putter. When chipping the ball seemed to stay on the face a touch longer than I’m used to, once again allowing me to be a touch more forceful at strike. There was a notable difference in flight with my pitch shots however where I noticed a little higher launch window than I am used to, and a touch less bite on the green when compared to the TP5x.
- Read our full TaylorMade 2025 Tour Response Golf Ball Review
Titleist 2024 Tour Soft Golf Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a handy alignment aid: If you have trouble lining up putts properly, the thick line and ‘T’ marking on the side of the Tour Soft will help your accuracy when on the greens.
✅ You want good greenside control: As you would expect based on the name, this model is extremely soft but also provides plenty of spin and control.
NO IF:
❌ You don't like a shiny finish: This golf ball has a slight shimmer which may not appeal to everyone.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Pro V1 takes most of the headlines, but pound for pound we feel that the Titleist 2024 Tour Soft ball more than holds its own against some of the best golf balls on the market. The consistent performance it offers from tee to green makes this an attractive option and in our view the Tour Soft is a great alternative to most premium golf balls.
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What you need to know: Titleist are market leaders in golf ball technology and have been for many years. There are plenty of different models to choose from within their range and perhaps that is why the Tour Soft is not as well known as it should be. It's almost been lost in the shuffle, but this is a high end model specifically designed for those who want a soft feel and elite performance at an affordable price. The Pro V1 and Pro V1x get most of the attention but the Tour Soft provides excellent performance at a fraction of the cost.
Design/Tech: The Tour Soft ball is packed with technology, including a new, thin reformulated cover and larger core. Aesthetically, these are one of the whitest golf balls around and thanks to the Fusablend cover, there is a shimmer to the Tour Soft that really makes it standout. That won't suit the eye of everybody but we were drawn to it. It's a great looking golf ball that performs well in every aspect of the game. Everything about the Tour Soft is premium except for the price.
Long game performance: In our experience it's often the case that some of the best soft feel balls have problems maintaining speed when struck firmly with the driver. We're happy to report that our testing showed that wasn’t the case here and the Tour Soft performed admirably off the tee. The spin numbers are on the high side so it is very easy to get it airborne and there's plenty of help there for those who need it. If you are already a high spin player though, you would be better served with a different ball as this one might balloon up too high and you will lose distance.
Short game performance: We noticed when using wedges from around the green that there were good levels of spin control, while pitch shots and flighted wedges also produced a decent amount of spin and sat down quickly. The overall performance in the short game was excellent, and our main take away was that the spin was consistent throughout, which makes it much easier to judge those difficult shots as you know how the ball is likely to react.
- Read our full Titleist 2024 Tour Soft Golf Ball Review
Mizuno Pro X Golf Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You’re looking for performance that won’t break the bank: In terms of premium golf balls, the Pro X offers excellent value for money.
✅ You want more height and control on approach shots: The Pro X really excels when it comes to approach shots as the flight is high and with plenty of stopping power.
NO IF:
❌ You want a soft feeling golf ball: The Pro Xis not overly firm by any means, but if you prefer a soft feeling golf ball then this may not suit your tastes. Frankly we're clutching at straws here though as we don't have any good reasons to not give this ball a try.
THE BOTTOM LINE
This may well be the best new golf ball of 2025 as it matches every other premium golf ball we've tested for performance and it comes in at a lower price point. Mizuno aren't known for their premium golf balls and perhaps that will put some people off trying the Pro X, but it really shouldn't.
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What you need to know: Mizuno is a brand better known for its long standing reputation for making some of the best feeling irons. When you hear the name Mizuno you don't think of golf balls, but maybe that will start to change thanks to the Pro X ball, which blew us away in testing. It matched up well with any other premium golf ball we've tested but it's significantly cheaper than most of them.
Design/Tech: The Pro X and Pro S balls replace the RB Tour franchise and boast a new three piece construction that includes a 12 percent thinner urethane cover and a six percent thicker mantle layer, a combination that Mizuno claims significantly enhances ball speed while maintaining a soft, responsive feel. Both the new Mizuno Pro balls have a 332 Axial Flow Dimple Design the brand say reduces air resistance for a consistent, stable flight.
Long game performance: In our testing, the Mizuno Pro X produced driver ball speed of 156.2mph, which was comparable to the recently launched Z-Star Diamond ball we really liked, but because it launched considerably higher with low spin it flew four yards further. It was also longer than the Z-Star XV and seven yards longer than the Titleist 2023 Pro V1x. The Mizuno Pro X was also significantly faster and higher flying on mid-iron approach shots witha descent angle close to 50 degrees to maximise stopping power.
Short game performance: On a 50-yard wedge shot, the Pro X ball provided over 7000rpm of spin, which is by no means market leading but is more than enough to get the ball to check up quickly by the hole when well struck. The feel of this ball is appealing too, as it manages to be firm but not excessively so. We noted a responsive sensation on putts and shorter wedge shots that is noticeably different to the soft Mizuno Pro S ball. It’s very comparable to the Pro V1x if truth be told, which is certainly no bad thing, especially as it's a fair bit cheaper.
- Read our full Mizuno Pro X Golf Ball Review
Wilson 2025 Triad Golf Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You are after a superb feel on the greens: The uniform density throughout the three layers of the Triad makes for an unmatched roll on the greens.
✅ You are looking to increase your launch off the tee: This ball has a high MOI design which will help to lower spin on an array of different shots.
NO IF:
❌ Your ball flight is naturally low: This ball has a lower launch and flight so if you already hit the ball quite low then you may struggle with your carry distance and would be better served with a high spinning ball.
THE BOTTOM LINE
A ball that Wilson say will help mid-handicap players get their scores down. It provides good distance off the tee along with great feel on the greens, and in our view Wilson has created a winner with the Triad, which has been upgraded further in 2025. It's a fine all round golf ball that has been designed for golfers looking for the feel and control of a urethane model but who don't want to pay a premium price, and it's a great option for a number of players.
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What you need to know: Wilson make some of the best budget golf clubs that money can buy, but they also produce some higher end products too including some tour standard gear. Their Triad golf ball sits nicely in the middle of the two and offers tremendous value. Wilson market this ball as an all-rounder for ‘the competitive golfer striving to break 80’ and that feels about right to us. You won't find it in the bag of any tour pros but there are few better golf balls for those in the 10-20 handicap range.
Design/Tech: Triad might be the most underrated 3-piece urethane golf ball on the market, especially for the average club golfer looking to lower their handicap. It features an ultra-thin urethane cover and a uniform density throughout its three layers that Wilson claims will deliver a better roll on the greens. It has a high MOI design which is achieved by moving weight from the core to the outer layers of the golf ball, the net result of which is faster ball speed and lower driver spin.
Long game performance: When testing we noticed that the Triad spun a little bit more than some other balls in this category, which can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on the individual. If you need more spin, it's good. If you already spin it a lot with driver, it's not so good. In terms of overall distance it provided plenty of length and an extremely consistent flight. In the iron department it was a similar story, as we enjoyed a consistent, solid flight.
Short game performance: Whereas the long game department was very solid, when it came to the short game this is where the Triad came up just short of a premium tour quality golf ball. It did not perform badly by any means, and let's not forget that it isn't a premium tour ball and does not claim to be. We could see a difference around the greens with spin and control when it came to chipping. On pitch shots from 50 yards, however, we found that there was ample control, certainly enough for the mid-handicap player this ball is designed for. Where Triad really excelled for us though was the lovely soft feel when struck with a putter, and the true roll that led to very good control on the greens.
- Read our full Wilson 2025 Triad Golf Ball Review
Best budget balls
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want the best value ball on the market: You aren't going to see any Kirkland golf balls being used on the PGA Tour, but $35 for 24 balls is extremely budget-friendly.
✅ You want a durable golf ball: The durability on offer here is very impressive, especially when you consider the soft feel of this golf ball. It isn't as hard as a rock like some other budget options.
NO IF:
❌ You want a long golf ball: The Kirkland Signature, maybe understandably considering the price, lags behind the premium golf balls in terms of distance.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Kirkland Signature is a golf ball available at an amazingly accessible price that also performs pretty well on the golf course. It won't keep up with a Pro V1, but it's a brilliant option for beginners or other players who are relatively new for golf, lose a few balls a round and don't want to fork out on more expensive options.
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What you need to know: The Kirkland Signature is an extremely popular golf ball in North America thanks to it being on sale in CostCo. At $35 per two dozen, it has grabbed the attention of a lot of beginners or those relatively new to the game who seeks a golf ball that provides decent performance but also excellent value for money. When premium competitors are nearing and exceeding £50 a dozen, this model offers a significant financial relief.
Design/Tech: Its latest iteration of the Signature is a 3-Piece Urethane Cover model that promises tour-level materials and performance at an unbeatable value. On the eye, this ball is fine to look at which can't be said for all of the competing models on this side of the price scale which can often look cheap and not very cheerful.
Long game performance: Although the launch monitor numbers were very similar to those of a Pro V1 during our testing, we took them with a grain of salt due to what is known as "spin decay" if the dimples and aerodynamics are not as sophisticated as they should be and the best launch monitors only measure the first few yards of flight before determining the distance the ball has flown. When we paced out the distance of each shot instead, we noticed roughly a 10 yard gap between the Kirkland and Titleist, which is respectable considering the price difference.
Short game performance: I would dispute Costco’s website's claim that these balls are "great for beginners or professionals," as the lack of greenside control would make them stand out like a sore thumb among elite players. However, this ball isn't targeted at established players and rather is a better fit for higher handicappers and beginners who don't yet have the skillset to dial in their greenside spin.
- Read our full Kirkland Signature Golf Ball Review
Callaway Supersoft Golf Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want distance at top end: Thanks to the soft compression core, the Supersoft works well in maintaining distance with longer clubs in the bag
✅ You want value for money: The overall performance of this ball means this budget option offers exceptional value for money which many will enjoy.
NO IF:
❌ You want a clean look: The unique dimple design and black Supersoft stamping might split opinion. Those who like a clean look should look at others in this guide.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Callaway Supersoft is a fantastic performing ball and provides unbelievable value. If you don't want to spend more money on premium golf balls then this is an excellent alternative.
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What you need to know: The low-compression Callaway Supersoft ball has been one of the most popular balls with mid-high handicap golfers for many years. As time has gone by the Supersoft has undergone several improvements, making it an even better choice for seniors whose swings aren’t as fast they once were. The price makes this an excellent value option, which is part of the reason it has been such a favorite for so many years.
Design/Tech: A big improvement in the latest model of Supersoft has been the new hybrid cover, which features a Paraloid Impact Modifier. This has improved distance and durability without sacrificing the feel and short-game control that makes this such a popular choice. In addition, Callaway’s famous HEX Aerodynamics cover pattern reduces drag and increases lift, which helps to launch the ball higher and more easily, which is of great benefit to many players, especially those who are slowing down a bit with age.
Long game performance: The Supersoft has a soft compression core which enhanced energy transfer to give more ball speed and a high-launch / low-spin combo in the longer clubs. This was very evident in our testing and we also saw some receptiveness with longer approach shots, especially longer irons and hybrids, which was an added benefit.
Short game performance: Finally from a short game perspective, this kind of golf ball is never going to match a more premium model when it comes to greenside spin and control, but the hybrid cover boosted performance in terms of feel, especially with the wedges, and from an aesthetic point of view, we liked the black background on the sidestamp which made it easy to align putts.
- Read our full Callaway Supersoft Ball review
Srixon Distance Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want distance on a budget: A dozen of these golf balls come in at just over $15 so losing them isn't the end of the world. This makes them ideal for the new golfer or high handicap player.
✅ You want to hit the ball further: As the name suggests, this ball is built for distance and it does what it syays on the tin - or in this case box!
NO IF:
❌ You want a soft feel around the greens: Again, as with most distance balls the cover and core design makes these balls quite firm off the face.
❌ You like chip shots to check up quickly: As with any distance ball, it will deliver extra length but you will have to sacrifice a lot of control around the greens.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If you are looking for a cheap option to deliver extra yards, this is definitely worth a try. It will deliver more distance but the trade off is the performance in the short game, which will not suit the more skilled player. In terms of cost though, a new golfer or higher handicap player can't go wrong here as losing golf balls is much less painful when you aren't paying four bucks a ball!
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What you need to know: The Srixon Distance ball is, as the name implies, aimed at the golfer that needs help carrying the ball further. It certainly delivers on that, while also being arguably the best performing cheap golf ball we have tested. It's a durable, wallet friendly option that is ideal for the high handicap golfer or those who have just taken up the game and are almost certainly going to lose a lot of golf balls.
Design/Tech: Despite being one of the cheapest 'brand name' golf balls you'll find (at just $15 a dozen), the Srixon Distance is certainly not lacking in technology. It features a fastlayer core and a durable ionomer cover that helps to maximize distance and feel, while the 324 speed dimple pattern is designed to increase carry distance. Given the low price, golfers are getting quite a bit of technology for very little money.
Long game performance: This ball does what it says on the tin (or in this case box!). Our tester (an 18 handicap player) was able to gain 15 yards from the tee when using this golf ball as opposed to his usual gamer. Testing also showed that in windy conditions this ball was impressive and held its line well, while delivering a penetrating flight off the tee as well as with longer approach shots.
Short game performance: Unsurprisingly it was a different story in the short game, where the results were not impressive, That being said, the Srixon Distance ball was no worse than other distance balls around the green, which given its bargain price tag makes it an even more attractive option. Distance balls are what they are; there is always going to be a trade off when you are gaining distance while not having to pay much. That trade off always comes in the short game, specifically in the lack of spin and control on offer. For new golfers and high handicap players, this is not especially important, but if you are the type of player who uses loft around the green then you're better off going with a more premium offering.
- Read our full Srixon Distance Ball Review
TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Ball
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ Want to save some money on golf balls: A dozen of these Distance+ balls doesn't cost a lot so it's not as expensive for a new golfer when they are losing eight balls in the water on a par 3!
✅ You are beginning your golfing journey: This is an appealing option for those just starting out in the game due to the combination of performance and price.
NO IF:
❌ You value premium control and feel: The feel and control on offer cannot compete with more premium models such as the ones above, but that is reflected in the price.
THE BOTTOM LINE
We were pleasantly surprised during testing to find that it offers many of the benefits that you would expect from a multi-layered ball. As far as two-piece golf balls go, this is an extremely good value option that comes in at a small fraction of the price that you would pay for a premium ball.
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What you need to know: The two-piece Distance+ ball was released by TaylorMade on the same day as the all-new premium five-piece TP5 and TP5x balls in 2021, and understandably it received a lot less fanfare as it is not aimed at Tour pros. Quite the opposite in fact, this is a ball designed for distance and golfers on a budget. For golfers who are looking to add a few extra yards and/or need help getting the ball airborne, this is an excellent option. It's ideal for those with slow/moderate swing speeds, including seniors and those who are new to the game.
Design/Tech: TaylorMade says that the 'Distance+ offers high-velocity performance for distance on all shots'. We can confirm this is indeed the case based on our extensive testing of this product. The Distance+ combines a React Speed Core and high-speed, low-drag aerodynamics, which the brand says will deliver extra ball speed and distance, and we saw nothing in testing that would contradict that claim.
Long game performance: We're pleased to say that off the tee the Distance+ lived up to its name, in fact its performance compared well with some of the more premium models on the market. This is a mid-launch ball in terms of flight and peak height we felt it struck a perfect balance, particularly in the low-iron / hybrid section of the bag where we really noticed a significant difference in height and distance. This is an important attribute as that extra height is obviously very helpful when firing at pins and hoping to get the ball to stick on the green rather than running through it.
Short game performance: As we've mentioned numerous times above, around the green is where you can really notice the difference with a distance golf ball in comparison to the more premium offerings. The performance of the Distance+ in the short game was a let down, but that was not a surprise. It's virtually impossible to get any grip on chip and pitch shots, which is fine for the less skilled player or the new golfer still yet to master the art of the short game, but those who like to use a bit of artistry around the greens will find it tough, and much better results will be achieved with bump-and-run shots. As for putting, we enjoyed the feel as the firmness means it's easy to feel the feedback off the face.
- Read our full TaylorMade Distance+ 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.
Joe Ferguson testing the 2025 Costco Kirkland Signature Golf Ball
The initial phase of testing clubs and golf balls usually begins indoors at Foresight Sports, utilizing the GCQuad launch monitor within a controlled environment. The bulk of Golf Monthly’s outdoor testing is conducted at West Hill Golf Club in Surrey, a stunning course that provides excellent practice amenities. By using the balls over multiple rounds and in varied conditions, the team gains a clear, comprehensive understanding of variables like feel, control, and ball flight.
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.
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.
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.
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 Wilson 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.
