Best Cheap Golf Balls 2026

For all the technology that leading brands put into the top balls and the rest of their ranges, for many golfers the buying decision still comes down to price. That might be because you’re new to the game, struggle with consistency and lose a few balls along the way, or it could just be that you prefer to spend more on other equipment while being perfectly happy with a more affordable ball.

There’s a common assumption that a lower price means lower quality, but that isn’t necessarily true with the best cheap golf balls. While cheaper models won’t offer the same performance as premium options, they aren’t designed to. Instead, they’re built to suit a different type of player, and our testing shows that many budget-friendly balls deliver strong performance within their category, along with excellent value for money. In this guide, we highlight some of our top value picks, including the best value balls on the market, some of the best distance balls as well as some of the best soft-feel balls.

Most balls in this price range feature a simple two-piece construction, with a core and cover designed to balance performance and durability. However, some models, such as the Kirkland Signature or Bridgestone e12 Straight, go a step further with three-piece designs that offer greater versatility. You might prefer to call them “inexpensive,” but ultimately these are cheap golf balls, and there’s no need to shy away from that term, as price is often the key factor when choosing which ball to play. So without further ado let's get to the list of best golf balls from a cheap price perspective.

Best Cheap Golf Balls 2026

The Quick List

Top pick

The Titleist TruFeel is undoubtedly one of the best value golf balls available, offering an excellent balance of price and performance. This two-piece model features a softer 3.0 TruFlex cover, which enhances greenside spin and control. Around the greens, it provides a lively, responsive feel, and in testing it was clear the ball is well suited to beginners. One of the standout aspects was the level of spin on offer, which allowed for a variety of shot types while maintaining confidence in how the ball would react on landing.

The new TruTouch core is designed to deliver increased distance, and while it produced solid length off the driver, it won’t compete with premium models like the Pro V1. However, given it comes in at roughly half the price, the overall performance makes it an easy recommendation as one of the best budget golf balls available. We also liked the addition of the red alignment lines, which helped with setup and added confidence on shorter putts.

• Read our full Titleist TruFeel Golf Ball Review

Straightest flight

The e12 Straight features a three-piece construction, including a FlexATIV cover and a polymer Active Acceleration Mantle. While it doesn’t have a urethane cover and therefore won’t match the short-game performance of premium balls, the price reflects that, and the wider e12 range, which also includes the Hi-Launch and Speed models, remains one of the strongest options in the mid-price category.

A key part of its performance is the Contact Force dimple pattern, which gives the ball a distinctive look compared to other e12 models. This design helps reduce sidespin and minimise shot curvature, making it easier to keep the ball in play. Our testing supported this, with noticeably straighter ball flights throughout.

Another feature is Bridgestone’s Mindset logo. This is a hallmark of all the best Bridgestone golf balls and is included across the e12 range. It’s designed to encourage a simple three-step routine: pick your target, visualise the shot, then focus on the green dot before making your stroke. Overall, this is a great option for golfers who struggle with accuracy off the tee, and those prone to a slice may see even better results when pairing it with a draw-biased driver.

• Read our full Bridgestone e12 Straight Golf Ball Review

Best for distance

The latest version of the ever-popular Srixon Distance has been updated with a softer compression than its predecessor. According to Srixon, this helps generate greater distance through higher initial ball speed and a higher launch, resulting in a more penetrating flight. Our testing backed this up, with strong carry and impressive performance in windy conditions. The reduction of 108 dimples also plays a role here, helping to reduce drag and increase lift.

As with most distance-focused balls, there is a trade-off around the greens. While it doesn’t feel overly firm, it lacks the grip and control of softer, premium models. However, the firmer cover does bring excellent durability, which many golfers will appreciate. Ultimately, if distance and longevity are your main priorities, the Srixon Distance is a very solid option.

• Read our full Srixon Distance Ball Review

Best for alignment

If you’re looking for a ball built for speed and distance, the Distance+ is a strong option. It features the REACT Speed Core and a 342-dimple pattern designed to reduce drag and maximize ball speed, making it a standout in the lower price bracket. For a two-piece ball, it delivers solid performance while remaining very affordable.

The soft Ionomer cover provides a pleasant feel with decent control around the greens, while also offering good durability to resist scuffs and wear. This makes it a great choice for golfers seeking extra distance off the tee, and it’s one of the best golf balls for slower swing speeds.

In testing, the Distance+ produced a strong, penetrating ball flight, which is especially useful for players who prefer a lower trajectory. It did feel slightly clicky on chips for a softer ball but putting performance was excellent with clear feedback. We also liked the cross-shaped “plus” alignment aid, which proved helpful when lining up putts.

• Read our full TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Ball Review

Best value

The Kirkland Signature golf ball has earned a legendary status in the amateur golf community, primarily by shattering the established price structure of the premium ball market. The incredible price tag is the first thing that hits you: £34.99/$34.99 for two dozen golf balls is nothing short of extraordinary. When premium competitors are nearing and exceeding £50 a dozen, this model offers a significant financial relief.

My initial impression of the feel, which was a little "clicky" in older models, is that it is much improved. The latest version delivers a notably softer impact. The improvement in feel is most noticeable on the irons and wedges, particularly short chips and pitches around the green. Off the putter face, it felt solid and responsive, a pleasing experience given the price.

A slight lack of control becomes more apparent as you approach the green, where the Kirkland ball certainly fell short of more premium golf balls in terms of spin and performance. It produced a significantly higher ball flight and noticeably less grab on the putting surface, in particular on mid-range pitch shots around the 50-yard mark. This lack of greenside bite is the most noticeable performance compromise I found throughout testing.

Nevertheless, the Kirkland is a reliable product, offering decent feel and feedback and a reasonable level of spin and control, albeit at a mildly reduced distance. I cannot think of a ball that even gets close to representing the same extraordinary value for the beginner or intermediate player. If you're someone who loses a ball or two per round and prioritizes saving money without resorting to a low-quality rock, the Kirkland Signature is unbeatable.

• Read our full 2025 Costco Kirkland Signature Golf Ball Review

How we test golf balls

The Golf Monthly test team is highly experienced and well-regarded within the industry, with a strong reputation built on years of knowledge and expertise. When it comes to golf balls, testing is led by Staff Writers Sam De’Ath and Joe Ferguson. Both Sam and Joe are seasoned golfers with extensive experience in evaluating golf equipment.

Our approach is to test every ball we can get hold of as soon as it becomes available. The process is thorough, beginning with controlled indoor testing to gather reliable data. This is followed by outdoor sessions to assess real-world performance and finally on-course testing to see how the ball performs in play. This method allows us to evaluate each ball’s strengths and weaknesses. Whether that’s distance off the tee or touch around the greens, we always compare the data side by side to see which models stand out.

This ensures that our rankings are accurate and supported by launch monitor results. Importantly, no manufacturer can buy a good review; our ethos is built on providing honest, insightful, and unbiased feedback.

How to choose golf balls

Golf balls are among the most technically advanced pieces of equipment in the game, and there’s a lot to consider when choosing your next dozen. That’s where we come in. At Golf Monthly, we’ve outlined the key factors to think about when selecting your next pack of affordable golf balls.

1. Durability

Cheaper balls can sometimes scuff or cut more easily, meaning they may not last as long. If durability is your main priority it’s worth choosing a model with a firmer, more cut-resistant cover. If feel is more important then a softer cover may suit you better. It’s also worth considering how many balls you tend to lose during a round, as if you lose quite a few, durability becomes less of a concern.

2. Long game or short game?

Do you want maximum distance, or better feel and control around the greens? For pure distance, firmer options like the Srixon Distance are worth a look. If you prefer enhanced short-game touch, something like the Honma A1 may suit you better. Check out our best soft feel golf balls guide for more models designed for feel.

3. Trade-off

At this end of the market compromises are inevitable. If you prioritise distance you’ll likely sacrifice some short-game spin, while a more durable cover may not offer the softest feel. It’s important to understand what each ball is designed to do and be aware of the trade-offs as no option at this price point will excel in every area.

4. Color

Golf balls are no longer just white. Many models now come in three or more colours, with some brands offering as many as eight.

5. Budget

Prices vary widely, from as little as $8 a dozen to around $36 a dozen. Decide what you’re comfortable spending before choosing.

6. Number of balls

Purchasing in larger quantities often means better value, especially from smaller brands or through retailers offering discounts. Keep an eye out for sales events like Black Friday, which can be an excellent time to stock up. We will always point out the best deals during these sales events so we've got you covered.

For more advice on buying golf balls, why not check out our guides on the best Titleist golf balls, best Srixon golf balls, and best TaylorMade golf balls.

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