Most major golf manufacturers come out with new drivers at the beginning of every year. The big boys of golf love to keep their engineers and testers busy year round. All with the hope of hitting a technology hole-in-one come Jan/Feb when the yearning public finally gets to see and hit what reviewers are claiming to be the best-of-the-best. And we golfers eat it up!
Beyond sexy styling and the “feels” the newest driver tech on the market can generate, our introductions of the 2024’s best golf drivers (teaser: some are ’23 carryovers) are mainly focused on performance, distance, and forgiveness.
Whether you’re a cocky college phoenom, a leathered veteran, or a weekend enthusiast, the temptation of longer, straighter rippers is irresistible. If you’ve been waiting for the moment to upgrade, this guide will reveal eight game-changing drivers for 2024 that are certain to redefine the way you play.
Callaway Golf | Paradym Ai Smoke Driver
Callaway has established itself as a powerhouse in the world of golf, particularly with its drivers making waves on the pro tour circuits. Now, for the 2024 season, Callaway has done what no other golf brand has done before. They’ve introduced the Paradym Ai Smoke Driver with the world’s first AI Smart Face. That description just gets the nerd in me all lathered up and ready to rip. And, boy does this driver deliver in person.
Developed with the assistance of artificial intelligence using real player data, the Paradym Ai Smoke Driver comes in four models: MAX, MAX D, MAX Fast, and Triple Diamond.
Currently, several tour players have adopted the Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond model into their golf bags, including Xander Schauffele, Min Woo Lee, Adam Hadwin, Rose Zhang, and Jeeno Thitikul, while PGA Tour veteran Alexander Noren has chosen the MAX D model for his game.
The Triple Diamond model is better for players looking for workability off the tee, while the MAX D model is best for players looking to hit a desired draw. Or in the case of Alexander Noren, not over-cut it.
With a smoky design with multiple sweet spots, the Paradym Ai Smoke Driver enhances forgiveness and promises ‘up to 19 yards’ of shot shape correction. That may not be enough correction for me, but it certainly will be for many. After sufficient testing, we’re counting on most of Callaway’s top tour staff members to put an Ai Smoke in their bags by the end of Q1.
Cleveland Golf | Launcher XL 2 Driver
Although Cleveland Golf hasn’t come out with a new driver in 2024, they already have a sensible one on the market that is being lauded – the Launcher XL 2. Cleveland isn’t trying to sell drivers to low-to-pro players. Cleveland’s market focus is more geared toward the country club set of mid-handicappers who want to enjoy their rounds while having success off the tee.
Boasting a remarkable 6.7% increase in length from front to back and an impressive 11% boost in Moment of Inertia (MOI) compared to the earlier Launcher generation, the Launcher XL 2 is available in three models: XL, Lite, and Lite Draw. AKA, longer, lighter and cleverer.
Each of the three driver models incorporates advanced technologies, however, the XL stands out as the main model and includes an adjustable hosel, a must for the golfer who tinkers with their gear set-up. This feature empowers golfers to fine-tune their launch angle, distance, and shot shape by offering up to 12 different loft positions for optimization.
If you simply want to enjoy your time on the golf course without stressing over your equipment, consider checking out the Launcher XL family. These clubs are ideal for golfers who prioritize ease and fun over strict gear adjustments.
Cobra Golf | DARKSPEED Driver
Throughout the years, Cobar Golf has established itself as a prominent player in the golf equipment industry, with a commitment to enhance the game for players of all levels. And they came out swinging in January of this year with the unveiling of their newest driver, the much heralded COBRA DARKSPEED. Or, otherwise known by fans of Cobra and Temecula’s own BDR as ‘the Fastest Driver in Golf.’
Crafted with cutting-edge aerodynamics and utilizing space-grade materials (that’s some good marketing right there), the DARKSPEED is available in three distinct models: the DARKSPEED LS, DARKSPEED X, and DARKSPEED MAX.
The DARKSPEED is already in the bag of PGA Tour stud Rickie Fowler and the star of The Match, Lexi Thompson. The driver is sparking curiosity among ardent fans of Rickie and Lexi and the golfers lucky enough who have hit it in retail shops like GolfTec, Roger Dunn and PGA TOUR Superstore, and on ranges EVERYWHERE. This driver is making waves for COBRA. Engineers, nice job! Also, keep an eye on Gary Woodland’s comeback from brain surgery as he hits bullets with his new DARKSPEED with new space-grade metal in his melon. That’s putting some serious tech to work!
The MAX model is designed to be the perfect tool for finding fairways effortlessly. With two weight positions, it offers exceptional forgiveness and accuracy, particularly suited for players aiming for higher launch angles and straighter ball flights. On top of this, the MAX model caters to a wider audience with specialized editions for women and juniors.
Pun alert: Speed in to discover how the COBRA DARKSPEED can elevate your performance on the golf course.
Mizuno Golf | ST Max 230 Driver
Mizuno Golf is known for their precision engineering and focus on delivering exceptional performance for golfers of all skill levels; and, although Mizuno hasn’t launched any new drivers in 2024, their latest model, the ST Max 230 Driver, is their most stable driver to date. And dare we say the most handsome as well.
The ST MAX 230 driver is currently in the hands of PGA TOUR playing, visor wearing, frat guy looking, long driving Keith Mitchell.
The ST MAX 230 presents a low-profile, wide-footprint design that appears larger than its officially measured 460cc size. With an expanded CORTECH Chamber and 54 grams of rear weighting, this driver offers exceptional straight-line performance across its generously sized clubface. This driver introduces two new engineering innovations aimed at further boosting stability while maintaining impressive ball speeds: a next-generation CORTECH Chamber and a newly developed Beta-rich LFS Ti clubface.
Damn. Beta-rich. For the Richy Rich.
Expect the ST MAX 230 driver to deliver an impressive ball flight, staying true to the intended line you set it on.
PING | G430 MAX 10K Driver
PING’s new G430 MAX 10K builds upon the success of the G430 line introduced last year. If you’ve read a handful of our WITB gear recaps, you’ll notice a recurring theme: pro golfers who aren’t getting paid to play PING are playing PING and most are hitting G430 drivers and fairway woods.
With a MOI of 10,000 g-cm² the G430 MAX 10K is PING’s “most forgiving and straightest driver yet.”
The G430 MAX 10K has already jumped into the bags of Viktor Hovland, Tony Finau, Jason Day, Tyrell Hatton, Jennifer Kupcho, and Joaquin Niemann. For those keeping score at home, that’s three PGA TOUR stars, two LIV tour phoenoms, and one kick-ass LPGA TOUR rep and Augusta National Amateur champ who are rocking the MAX 10k.
With a stationary back weight, the largest head profile in PING’s lineup, and a Carbonfly Wrap crown, the G430 MAX 10K is engineered to launch the ball higher with reduced spin, resulting in consistently longer and straighter shots. Love it.
PING claims that this 2024 model is suitable for all types of golfers, from casual weekend players to professional tour pros. Those who get paid to play have been impressed by the driver’s ability to keep the ball flying straight down US Open-tight lanes.
Srixon | ZX5 MK II Driver
Srixon Golf drivers are crafted with a blend of cutting-edge technology and precise attention to detail, catering to golfers seeking maximum distance and forgiveness. Although we haven’t seen a release of any new Srixon drivers in 2024, we did experience a juicy release in ’23 with Srixon’s Zx5 Mk II Driver.
Ichiban Hideki Matsuyama recently won the 2024 Genesis Invitational using Srixon’s ZX5 Mk II Driver.
The Zx5 II is Srixon’s latest driver designed to meet the needs of players seeking enhanced forgiveness within a generous, confidence-boosting design. With the driver’s rebound frame, dual flex zones, adjustability, star frame crown, and variable thickness face (maybe a little Ai went into this tech), this driver brings more power to the tee.
Its large, flattened footprint, along with an 8g rear weight, facilitates effortless launching of drives with increased height, distance, and accuracy. Additionally, an adjustable hosel sleeve enables you to fine-tune the face angle and loft to match your swing preferences.
If you’re looking to take home a win in 2024, the Zx5 II is the perfect driver for you.
TaylorMade | Qi10 Driver
When TaylorMade releases a new driver, the golfing world holds its breath in anticipation. Last season we learned that the red rocket Stealth 2 was all about forgiveness. But this year, TaylorMade has launched the Qi10, claiming to be their most fargiving driver yet. That’s a pretty lofty claim, full pun intended.
With a moment of inertia (MOI) exceeding 10,000 g-cm^2, the Qi10 comes in three models: the Qi10 Max, Qi10 LS, and Qi10. I never touched physics in HS or college, but a high MOI sounds more like a term used for rifles than golf clubs, which is probably why the pros and college stars are loving the new TM weapon of choice.
The LS (low spin) model is already in the bags of tour professionals Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods, Scottie Scheffler, Brooke Henderson, Charley Hull and Tommy Fleetwood. Nick Dunlap, the amateur who recently won The PGA TOUR’s American Express tournament at PGA West was sporting the LS too. For better players, LS seems to be option #1.
The Max model is in the bags of tour young guns Collin Morikawa and Nelly Korda.
While the LS model is specifically engineered to maximize performance for golfers with fast swing speeds, the Max model is more about forgiveness.
So, what makes the Qi10 TaylorMade’s most forgiving driver yet?
The design.
Carbon fiber in the crown and face allows weight redistribution for a lower and deeper center of gravity, ensuring rapid ball speed, even on off-center strikes. With a 460cc head shape, stability is enhanced, reducing dispersion (wicked shots that land in backyards) even on off-center hits. Additionally, a torque-control shaft minimizes head rotation, resulting in tighter shot dispersion off the tee. Furthermore, the Qi10 line boasts a cleaner, more traditional appearance, appealing to many players.
Titleist | TSR4 Driver
There is no question Titleist is in the pantheon of club manufacturers. And even though their peers Callaway and TaylorMade release drivers on an annual cadence, Titleist prefers releasing new drivers on a 2-year cycle. Released in 2023, their TSR line of drivers offer a diverse selection tailored for different types of golfers including professionals, seniors, women, and high handicappers. While some models prioritize distance, and others emphasize forgiveness, these drivers greatly enhance all golfers’ ability to hit fairways, regardless of skill level or playing style. And when it comes to styling, the TSR family of drivers look like they belong. Clean. Sharp. Player-ready.
The TSR driver comes in four different models; the TSR1, TSR2, TSR3, and TSR4.
Players pulling the TSR2 out of their bag include Joran Spieth, Will Zalatoris, and the big Swede Ludvig Aberg. PGA TOUR stars rocking the TSR3 include Max Homa, Wyndham Clark, and Justin Thomas.
The TSR4 offers players the flexibility of adjusting both front and back weighting, opening up opportunities for a broader range of golfers to explore distance gains by minimizing spin.