Best Golf Drivers 2023

Best Golf Drivers

When it comes to drivers, brands have showed no sign of slowing down their innovation. So perhaps a new big stick could be just what you need to get your season off to a flier.

Whether you’re a fast swinger looking for workability, or a beginner searching for as much help as possible, today’s drivers offer a new level of playability that should help you find a few more fairways. 

To give you an idea as to what might work best for you, we at Golf Monthly have tested the entire class of drivers out on the course, as well as on launch monitors using Titleist Pro V1x golf balls. Our best drivers video below offers a full insight into what you can expect across the board, including our launch monitor data comparing the performance on offer.

Of course, investing in a new driver is one of the most expensive products a golfer can buy, and we've discussed, at length, which models are the best to come out in 2023. (opens in new tab) However, it will of course come down to personal preference, making a custom-fitting crucial to maximise your performance from off the tee. In our experience, each of the main brands has a model that will will work well for pretty much every golfer.

Additionally, if you're looking for a specific type of performance, you can take a deeper dive into some of our other guides on the most forgiving drivers, best golf drivers for distance, or even the best high handicap drivers.

Best Golf Drivers

Newest Models

For 2023, Callaway have introduced the Paradym range, which sees the introduction of a 360˚ carbon chassis and, in another first, the engineers have gotten rid of any trace of titanium in the body, saving weight to use elsewhere for more forgiveness.

There are three Paradym models on offer, with the standard driver being accompanied by the Paradym X (opens in new tab) and the Paradym Triple Diamond (opens in new tab). Obviously, each model will vary, but the standard driver will be the most user-friendly for the widest group of golfers, with a brand new Jailbreak design, A.I. Optimized face and a Face Cup allowing for faster ball speeds and fantastic forgiveness.

Compared to the old Rogue ST range, Callaway have bought in a new dark blue carbon effect which, although is different to other brands' offerings in 2023, still has the traditional, classic shape that is both modern and premium.

• Read our full Callaway Paradym Driver Review (opens in new tab)

In 2022, TaylorMade made arguably the biggest impact within the driver scene, as it introduced users to the 'Carbonwood Age' with its Stealth range (opens in new tab) of drivers. For 2023, the company has refined its offering, as the original technology stays in place, but with some slight adjustments. 

Notably, there is still the red and black aesthetic, but TaylorMade has made it more user-friendly for 2023, especially behind the ball. They have done this by making the red on the face brighter, which ensures the loft on the club is a little clearer to see and, to add to that, the glossy black crown also helps it look a bit more generous at address.

There is still the original 60X Carbon Twist Face we saw in the Stealth, but TaylorMade has created a new face design that features an advanced version of Inverted Cone Technology (ICT) to help maintain ball speed on off-center strikes and increase forgiveness. What's more, it’s 2g lighter than the original Stealth face and designed to have an expanded COR area for a larger sweet spot and boosted performance.

• Read our full TaylorMade Stealth 2 Driver Review (opens in new tab)

Having not released a new driver since 2021, Ping has brought in the brand-new G430, with the focus on upping the superb forgiveness that we saw in the previous G425 range. (opens in new tab) The company is known for producing some of the most forgiving drivers on the market and, with their new offering, it is no exception.

For 2023, Ping's engineers have created a slightly thinner face and shallower profile making way for the brand's forged variable face thickness. This delivers more flexing for greater speed and forgiveness across the entire face and also included is something called ‘Spinsistency’. This is a variable roll radius that should deliver more consistent spin rates and carry distances.

Just like the G425 range, there are three models available, with the Max driver joined by the G430 SFT (opens in new tab) and the G430 LST (opens in new tab). All three provide that easy-to-hit feeling, with all three also including a moveable weight in the back of the head. This feature should really help hone in your spin rates and distance.

• Read our full Ping G430 Max Driver Review (opens in new tab)

Cobra has always had the reputation for building premium performing equipment that is significantly cheaper than other models on the market. For 2023, their offering is based around speed, with the Aerojet range featuring a new aerodynamic shape that should help the driver move faster through the air.

Along with a new shape, the engineers have created a new ‘PWR-Bridge', which is a 13g weight that sits low in the sole, behind the face and the brand is promising golfers fast ball speeds and low spin for more yardage. In our testing, the claim was backed up, as it delivered the fastest average head speed, making it one of the best golf drivers for distance in 2023. (opens in new tab)

Aesthetically, the matte black crown and subtle ridges of its predecessor, the LTDx (opens in new tab), have gone, with it being replaced by a blue and grey combination that is simple and modern. Although the differences in feel are similar to that of the LTDx, we really don't mind as the feel was excellent in last year's model.

• Read our full Cobra Aerojet Driver Review (opens in new tab)

Over the last six years, the Titleist driver designers have been on something of a journey. Following the original TS model, we then saw the TSi driver and now we are graced with the TSR, which promises further refinements through, among other technologies, better aerodynamics and a new multi-plateau variable thickness face design. 

Aesthetically, we see the traditional shape that you find in most Titleist drivers, with the new model slightly shorter from front to back and the toe area being a little more rounded. If anything, the TSR2 appears a fraction more compact at address. There's no denying it looks superb.

Featuring a powerful feel off the tee, the work that Titleist has done, both on the aerodynamics and on the design of the face, has boosted the speed on offer. Along with the added speed, it's the consistency where it shines as, in testing, the all round playability of the head was incredible and helped favor off-centre strikes, making it one of the best Titleist drivers (opens in new tab) anywhere on the market.

• Read our full Titleist TSR2 Driver Review

For 2023, Srixon has released the the ZX5 MK II, ZX5 MK II LS and the ZX7 MK II (opens in new tab), with the ZX5 our choice for this guide. Compared to its predecessor, the Srixon ZX5, the Mk II version has an all-titanium head construction instead of a carbon crown. What's more, it also includes a very thin titanium crown, which is placed above a Star Frame structure. This features three ribs criss-crossing on the inside to provide greater rigidity between the face, sides and rear of the head.

In our testing, we felt it was one of the best high handicap drivers (opens in new tab) of 2023 because of how easy it was to launch in the air. This is thanks, in part, to the weight that is saved by the crown being repositioned to improve the launch.

Aesthetically, it features a more stripped-back look, with a dark grey color being used on the crown, something which is far more restrained than other drivers on this list. Plus, because of the slight draw bias in the head shape, it will suit players looking to straighten up a slice.

• Read our full Srixon ZX5 Mk II Driver Review (opens in new tab)

Mizuno are perhaps known more for producing some of the best golf irons (opens in new tab) on the market, but their offering of woods are certainly up there with some of the best manufacturers. This new ST-Z 230 is a case in point as it offers an excellent all round performance in both the distance and forgiveness category.

The 2022 Mizuno ST-Z 220 (opens in new tab) was one of the best-looking drivers on the market and, in our opinion, not much has changed. At address, the differences between the generations are hard to spot as it still has a gloss black finish with the carbon effect pattern underneath but the new version has a darker alignment aid. 

There are two options available in the range, the ST-Z and ST-X, with both possessing new technology in the form of a new CORTECH Chamber which encases a stainless-steel weight with elastomeric TPU. This has been added to take stress away from the clubface and use it to create an additional source of energy. This also pushes the weight closer to reduce spin, therefore creating a more solid, powerful sensation at impact.

• Read our full Mizuno ST-Z 230 Driver Review (opens in new tab)

Despite PXG's notoriously premium prices when it comes to its product line, the 0211 2022 driver seems to buck that trend, making it one of the best budget drivers (opens in new tab) on the market right now. There are countless shaft options in five different flexes as well as three stock loft options for both right and left handers. However, just because this driver has a cut price, doesn't mean you lose out on any performance. 

The original PXG 0211 driver (opens in new tab) was particularly impressive but, with the 0211 2022, it's gotten even better, with the aesthetics more refined in the newer model. The feel has been improved too, offering a more powerful impact sound this time round. Along with the looks, the performance rivals that of models that are $300 more expensive, with the PXG providing superb ball speed, distance and accuracy. 

• Read our full PXG 0211 2022 Driver Review (opens in new tab)

As stated in the product specs, there are two versions of the new Wilson Dynapower driver, with the club featuring either a titanium head or a carbon head. However, the most notable factor is that it is one of the most adjustable drivers ever created by Wilson.

The carbon fiber aesthetic makes this both traditional and inviting behind the ball, with the Dynapower providing a neutral to slight fade shot shape bias that will help those who play with a hook.

There really is a lot to like about the driver and it's comfortably among the best Wilson golf clubs (opens in new tab) you can buy. As is the case with any driver, if you were to get fitted for it, it will be competitive and even come close to the more premium models listed above.

• Read our full Wilson Dynapower Carbon Driver Review (opens in new tab)

Previous Models

Launched right at the start of 2022 to replace the Radspeed range of the clubs, the LTDx range from Cobra features three heads. These are the standard LTDx, which we've featured here, as well as the LTDx Max (opens in new tab)and LTDx LS, (opens in new tab) both draw bias and lower spinning models respectively. 

We've highlighted the standard head here in our best golf drivers' guide as it will likely suit the broadest range of golfers. The aesthetics have become more refined and the LTDx features a very similar-looking matte-black carbon crown to last year’s Radspeed.

The LTDx has a much lower-pitched, quieter impact sound than its predecessor. For us, it was significantly better - creating a satisfying ‘crack’ through impact that felt very powerful.

• Read our full Cobra LTDx Driver Review (opens in new tab)

The Rogue ST family replaced the outgoing Mavrik range and it comes in four different heads: Rogue ST Max, Rogue ST Max D (opens in new tab) (draw bias), Rogue ST LS (opens in new tab) (low spin) and Rogue ST Triple Diamond LS. 

We're highlighting the Rogue ST Max head here as this is the option we think will suit the broadest range of golfers. Down at address, the Rogue ST Max has a new matte crown which we really liked, although we didn’t care much for the clock-style graphics at the rear. The face looks flatter and is lighter in color, making it more visible and therefore easier to align. 

During the testing, we noticed a quieter, more dense ‘thud’ sound of the Rogue ST Max versus the Epic Max and we really liked this change. Observing the ball flight, the Rogue ST Max also had a far more neutral trajectory. We also enjoyed the distance and dispersion on offer from this driver.

• Read our full Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver Review (opens in new tab)

Over the last few years, golfers have become used to seeing TaylorMade introduce new driver technologies in a bid to unlock more distance off the tee. In 2022, the company introduced golfers to an all new carbon fiber face. To highlight the technology, the face of the Stealth driver is red which may divide opinion, but we were huge fans of it.

Don't be concerned about the new carbon face sounding or feeling dull. Impressively, the engineers at TaylorMade have managed to create the Stealth with a powerful feel and good sound at the point of contact. During our testing, we managed to deliver an extra three miles per hour in clubhead speed with the Stealth, compared to the SIM2. As you’d expect, this (along with a reduction in spin versus the original SIM) translated into more distance. 

This is the standard model in the Stealth range, but there is also the draw bias Stealth HD (opens in new tab) or low spinning Stealth Plus (opens in new tab) to choose from - so if you're after the best drivers for slicers (opens in new tab)or best drivers for distance (opens in new tab), check those models out. We think the standard head will suit the broadest range of golfers which is why we picked it in this guide.

• Read our full TaylorMade Stealth Driver Review  (opens in new tab)

To achieve the new performance levels in the G425 Max, Ping implemented a new 26-gram tungsten movable weight called a CG Shifter, which is made possible by weight savings from advancements in the driver’s dragonfly crown design. The weight can be secured in one of three settings – neutral, draw or fade – to influence forgiveness and shot shape. The average MOI increase is 14 per cent across the three weight positions compared to the G410 Plus.

Indeed when comparing to the older model, down at address, the G425 Max certainly has a more rounded profile than the G410 Plus, which to some people will look more user friendly. That isn't to say performance has gone down though, because the Max still feels just as powerful and has the same sound we loved in the G410.

Overall, in our testing, we think the Max, along with the other models with the G425 name, is a range of drivers that will work for every player type to maintain distance while finding more fairways.

• Read our full Ping G425 Max Driver Review (opens in new tab)

The “C” in Tour Edge Exotics C722 driver name stands for a compact 445cc clubhead – which nicely complements the deep face with minimal offset. In all honesty, this is aimed at better players looking for premium performance that won't break the bank.

Like its sibling, the Tour Edge Exotics E722 driver (opens in new tab) model, this sports a thin “Ridgeback” spine acting as a brace that runs from the clubface center through the crown and connecting with a new sole plate rail, that produces a powerful impact sound. 

An adjustable hosel allows you to alter the base 9.5° and 10.5° lofts by +/- 2 degrees, and lie angle through a range of 3 degrees. What's more, the shaft is scientifically paired for every flex.

• Read our full Tour Edge Exotics C722 Driver Review (opens in new tab)

Srixon's ZX7 driver features a 15% larger carbon crown than the previous generation to reposition mass low, deep and around the perimeter, therefore increasing forgiveness. 

There is also Rebound Frame Technology, which works by layering alternating zones of flexibility and stiffness; these then work in tandem to focus more energy into the ball at impact for more distance. The ZX7 driver certainly delivers a slightly more penetrating ball flight than the ZX5 and there is also a lot of adjustability which comprises of 4g and 8g sole weights to give any player their desired launch conditions or alter swing weight.

It wasn't just the performance which impressed us, as it combined good speed with the ability to control accuracy in a multitude of ways, but also the smaller, more rounded profile of the ZX7 will suit the eye of the slightly lower handicapper it has been designed for.

• Read our full Srixon ZX7 Driver Review (opens in new tab)

This Wilson Launch Pad 2022 driver is designed to be an all-out game-improvement offering, and it has been developed much further compared to the previous generation.

The first point to mention is the face design. Through research Wilson says that average handicap players hit 68% of their shots out of the toe half of the face. So, in the new Launch Pad, they’ve introduced their PKR face geometry that actually makes the striking area 5% bigger than the previous Launch Pad.

What's more, the lie angle is two degrees upright to help golfers square up the face at impact and, the face itself, also sits quite closed and you can definitely see that as soon as you set it down behind the ball. There is also some heel side weighting within the head to help promote more of a draw shape. 

• Read our full Wilson Launch Pad 2022 Driver Review (opens in new tab)

We believe this is one of the best golf drivers for mid handicappers (opens in new tab) as the Launcher XL benefits from a larger driver head and an incredibly confidence- inspiring look at address. The length of the head from front to back has increased by 6% and the contrasting crown and face finishes mean you can see all of the loft from address. 

Performance wise, the Launcher XL gave solid carry distance on an easy swing. For the wide range of players this driver is aimed at, the spin rates created with this driver will help keep the ball in the air and provide good carry distance. What's more, its RRP sits well below the offerings from brands like Callaway or TaylorMade.

• Read our full Cleveland Launcher XL Driver Review (opens in new tab)

Replacing the ST220G driver from 2020, the ST-Z 220 driver sits alongside the ST-X 220 (opens in new tab), a draw bias model for those struggling with a slice off the tee. The Z is the lower spinning model that should blend power and forgiveness and, as such, is aimed at the largest cross section of golfers. 

During our testing, we found the ball speed is up there with the likes of Callaway, TaylorMade, Ping and Titleist and, with a good fitting, we think this driver should help most golfers find some extra yardage. 

The other thing that struck us as we hit the ST-Z 220 was how easy it was to get in the air. It isn’t as low spinning as we were expecting or as some other, similar drivers on the market. All in all, during our testing, we really enjoyed hitting this Mizuno driver. In all the key categories - from looks to forgiveness - it performs well. 

• Read our full Mizuno ST-Z 220 Driver Review (opens in new tab)

How we test for the best golf drivers

When it comes to product testing (opens in new tab), our reviews and buyers' guides are built upon a rigorous testing procedure as well as the knowledge and experience of the test team. Headed up by technical editor Joel Tadman, and assisted by Neil Tappin, both have been testing golf clubs for years and both play to a handicap of 5. Both are also able to efficiently test the vast majority of the biggest product releases and convey the pros and cons eloquently.

Getting into specifics for drivers, we first attend product launches and speak to manufacturer's to understand the technology. We then hit the golf clubs indoors, usually at Foresight Sports and test the products with premium golf balls on a launch monitor.

Outdoor testing is the next port of call and this usually takes place at West Hill Golf Club, a course in Surrey with top-notch practice facilities. Ultimately, we aim to be as insightful and honest as possible in our reviews so it is important to acknowledge that no manufacturer can buy a good review. This is because our team tells it how it is. We want to try and find the best golf clubs (opens in new tab) on the market and give you some insight on them, which requires being thorough and transparent. 

What to consider when buying a new golf driver

You've probably already asked yourself whether you need to buy a new driver, but there's a few key things to consider when investing in a new driver. Hopefully answering these questions will narrow your search down slightly and make comparing between various models much easier. 

When purchasing a new big stick, it is crucial to ask yourself just what you need from it. Is distance your main priority or are you looking for something to help you find more fairways? We'd always recommend a custom fitting with a PGA Pro but if you know what you're looking for you can make an informed decision. 

If accuracy is what you're after, go for something with a high MOI or adjustable weights to help alter spin and flight characteristics. If distance is key to you, look at a low-spinning driver to help ensure your ball doesn't balloon too much. If you're after something in the middle, the so-called 'standard' heads in most driver ranges will suit you the best. 

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