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According to USGA statistics, only 43% of golfers qualify as mid-handicapper players. As a mid-handicap golfer, you will still hit your share of bad shots but the number of good shots is equal to or more than your bad shots.
In reaching this status you have opened up a new level of equipment at your disposal. So it’s time to ditch your current driver which is bottlenecking your performance and move to something of a little higher quality. The best golf drivers for mid-handicappers are otherwise known as game-improvement golf clubs.
They are a bit less forgiving than the high-handicap clubs but not quite in the players club category. Continue to improve and that will be your next step. Read on to learn all about the best drivers for you.
At a glance: Our Top 5 Picks for Best Drivers For Mid Handicappers
Why You Should Trust Us
Our team spends thousands of hours trying out and researching golf equipment to help you take your game to the next level. Here’s our product review process.
We can bring these reviews to you through the small commissions we earn if you buy through the links below.
How We Reviewed These Products
Golfspan only shares equipment and brands we trust.
I’m an experienced golfer with 19 years on the c,ourse and I thoroughly researched and evaluated the products shared below. Then an editor reviewed and fact-checked the list. Finally, we conduct regular content audits to update and revise our reviews to ensure you receive the latest information.
To select these drivers, we considered these criteria:
- Cost
- Accuracy
- Spin
- MOI
- Forgiveness
- Shafts
- Loft
- Speed
Quick Overview: Our Top Picks for Best Drivers For Mid Handicappers
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
OUR RATING: 5.0/5 |
TaylorMade SIM Max Driver |
|
VIEW ON AMAZON → |
| OUR RATING: 5.0/5 |
Titleist TSi2 Driver |
|
VIEW ON AMAZON → |
| OUR RATING: 4.6/5 |
Callaway Golf Rogue ST Max Driver |
|
VIEW ON AMAZON → |
| OUR RATING: 4.2/5 |
Cobra King Speedzone |
|
VIEW ON AMAZON → |
| OUR RATING: 3.8/5 |
PXG 0221 Driver |
|
VIEW ON AMAZON → |
| OUR RATING: 3.8/5 |
Cobra Golf LTDx Driver |
|
VIEW ON AMAZON → |
| OUR RATING: 3.8/5 |
TaylorMade Stealth Driver |
|
VIEW ON AMAZON → |
7 Best Golf Drivers for Mid Handicappers Reviews
1. Best Value – TaylorMade SIM MAX Driver
Pros:
- Relatively affordable
- Draw bias
- Consistent accuracy
- Higher spin and MOI for higher handicaps
Cons:
- The draw bias can make shaping shots difficult
- Not advisable for skilled players
Specifications
- Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, and 12°
- Shaft: Ventus Blue 6 or Ventus Red 5
- Adjustable Hosel: Yes
- Left-Hand Choice: Yes
TaylorMade has produced an impressive array of drivers in the last decade and has moved away from the M series into the new SIM (Shape in Motion) series.
The SIM Max aims to provide you with the most forgiveness in the SIM family, which consists of 3 drivers, the SIM, SIM Max, and SIM Max D.
Shaft and Grip
The standard issue on the SIM Max is the Ventus Blue 6 (mid-launch) and Ventus Red 5 (mid-high launch) shafts and a Golf Pride Z-Grip.
Clubhead
A maximum allowable head of 460cc designed for speed is the key to this driver consisting of a face that is 8% larger than the SIM.
MOI is 70 points higher than the SIM due to a 20 g weight positioned back on the tip of the inertia generator in the sole.
Corrective angles across the face of the SIM Max using TaylorMade’s twist face technology result in a straighter ball trajectory.
A new asymmetrical sole aids in the aerodynamically head rotation through 45° at impact.
Loft and Adjustability
Standard lofts on the SIM Max driver are 9°, 10.5°, and 12°. The loft sleeve allows for 12 possible sleeve variations that can increase or decrease the loft and lie angle by ±2°, and the face angle by ±4°.
Crown
Taking its lead from the automotive industry, TaylorMade’s raised chromium carbon-fiber crown and grey-tinged chalk paint give a sleek appearance.
Combined with a raised sole, TaylorMade achieved a significant drag reduction without sacrificing the center of gravity. The inertia generator is located low and towards the back with a relatively heavy steel weight at the rear.
Sound
The SIM Max produces the same pitch as the SIM but sounds slightly louder at impact. Mishits feel reasonably constant. The feedback on where the golf ball made contact with the driver’s face is instantly felt in your hands.
Look
The white/silver crown and blue accents found on the SIM Max look similar to the SIM. The differences are more remarkable on the sole of the club. There is no adjustable weight on the Max’s sole but it has a larger inertia generator area.
Performance
The SIM Max is designed for maximum forgiveness. The inertia generator with extra weight at the back provides the forgiveness you require, marginally higher launch conditions, a little more spin, and a higher ball flight.
Distances achieved are consistent and comparable to most high-end drivers. The forgiveness of the Max will let your mishits fly roughly to the same distance as a pure strike, to a limit though.
Final Verdict
The SIM Max is distinct in looks from what you may have become accustomed to with TaylorMade drivers in the past, especially when you look at the sole.
Technological advances are to be expected in every new release from TaylorMade and the SIM Max does not disappoint in this aspect.
We feel that the SIM MAX is one of the best drivers for 20-handicap golfers.
To learn more, read our comprehensive review of the TaylorMade SIM Max.
Read More: Best Golf Drivers for Distance
Pros:
- Driver offering maximum distance and forgiveness
- High launch with low spin
- Larger sweet spot
- Titleist latest technology
Cons:
- Pricey
- New head shape is not for all Titleist fans
Specifications
- Lofts: 8°, 9°, 10° and 12°
- Shaft: 7 options
- Adjustable Hosel: Yes
- Left-Hand Choice: Yes
Shaft
Titleist offers a range of 7 different shaft options in the latest materials available. A selection of driver shaft flexes and lofts suits every swing speed. The lightweight graphite shaft will suit slower to average swing speeds and assist in increasing club head pace and, therefore ball speed.
Grip
Two Golf Pride grip options are available, with the Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 being popular. The Premium Golf Pride Z-Grip is the upmarket version. Both perform well.
Clubhead
Titleist has introduced a new high-strength titanium ATI 425 face insert that is thinner and produces more flex through impact. More speed, stability, and a larger sweet spot improve consistency.
Loft
The TSi2 has 4 loft options with the 10° or 11° versions being the best for the mid-handicapper who wants to get their golf ball airborne easily. The lower lofts of 8° and 9° require a good skill level to launch the ball accurately and consistently from the tee.
Crown and Looks
Titleist has improved the crown shaping at the toe, creating a more modern look at address. An improved topline, with a TSi visual aid, assists with the all-important alignment on the tee.
Sound
Titleist drivers have always produced a solid, traditional sound at impact, and the TSi lives up to this.
Performance
A high-performance driver that will deliver accuracy and consistency. Incredible speed is generated across the entire face, and the lower, deeper CG maximizes distance through the optimized MOI design.
Final Verdict
The TSi2 driver is a fast, forgiving, and high-launch driver. The low spin qualities ensure better control with less side spin on mis-hit shots. Hitting more fairways will produce improved scores. You could even consider this one of the best drivers for 10-handicap players and below.
We should also note that the TSi3 is an excellent option — especially if you have a quick swing speed. Read our review to learn more about the differences between the TSi2 and TSi3.
3. Most Tech – Callaway Golf Rogue ST Max Driver
Pros:
- Large confidence-inspiring shaped head
- Variety of shafts are available
- Awesome launch angles
Cons:
- Draw bias won’t suit those prone to slicing
Specifications
- Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, and 12°
- Shaft: 6 options
- Adjustable Hosel: Yes
- Left-Hand Choice: Yes
The Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver is one of a long line of successful drivers providing more forgiveness than its predecessors. The head size was increased to the legal 460 cc limit providing the basis for the extra forgiveness.
Shaft
There is a wide range of shafts available for the ST Max ranging from soft regular to extra stiff or professional. The variety extends to the weight of the shaft ensuring that you will find a shaft to your liking.
Clubhead
Callaway moved away from the 445cc head to the maximum allowable 460cc and has been able to reap the benefits of introducing a confidence-inspiring head with loads of forgiveness. The increased head size impacts slightly on the speed due to additional wind resistance. However, it ultimately promotes more consistent and accurate shot-making.
The center of gravity moved lower as a result of the high-density back weight and tungsten weights providing that extra forgiveness golfers dream of.
Loft
The standard lofts available are 9.0°, 10.5°, and 12°.
Crown
Callaway managed to save weight by producing a thinner crown and clubface. The technology used on the crown is a thing of beauty and not only looks great but is extremely effective.
The increased size of the head led to an increase in the size of the turbulator on the crown for enhanced aerodynamics.
Callaway shaved 9% off the weight by implementing the thinner titanium face. And by adding texture to the face they achieved a reduction in the spin rate. The weight saved through the thin face, crown, and thinner sole helped to produce a bigger surface for enhanced forgiveness. This allowed Callaway to add a 15 g tungsten weight moving the center of gravity lower and further back.
Sound
They didn’t ignore the impact of a great driving sound on the golfer’s psyche. After extensive research using computer simulations, they designed a club that resulted in a very satisfying deep muted sound at the time of impact.
Performance
There can be no complaints related to the performance of the Rogue ST Max. It produces long straight shots at a great launch angle.
You will be able to shape shots to your preference and situation without too much effort.
Final Verdict
The bigger head may cause a loss in speed, but the technological advances around the crown, sole, and face will reduce the impact of the speed loss with additional forgiveness and accuracy. Golfers that spray the ball around are sure to close the dispersion of shots using the Rogue ST Max. As such, this is one of the best drivers for intermediate golfers that have particular trouble with their long game.
Read More: Best Low Spin Drivers
4. Highest Face Speed – Cobra King Speedzone
Pros:
- Technology laden
- Designed for speed and distance
- Good forgiveness
Cons:
- Some will find the look at address a bit too busy
- Not all will appreciate the muted sound and feedback
Specifications
- Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, and 12°
- Shaft: Aldila Rogue Silver 60 or UST Helium 4F2
- Adjustable Hosel: Yes
- Left-Hand Choice: Yes
The Speedzone is loaded with technology to assist golfers at all levels to optimize their golf game. Cobra has found a solution to the optimum clubhead speed and low center of gravity combination that eluded so many manufacturers for a long time.
Shaft
A decent selection of shafts is available in varying weights and flex designed for every loft combination.
Loft
Lofts available vary between 9º, 10.5º, and 12º, and you can adjust them upwards and downwards on the hosel by 1.5º.
Crown
Cobra designed the large carbon fiber crown head that wraps onto the body with improved aerodynamics. This carbon fiber design saved 10 g on the titanium drivers. By making the crown flatter and creating a “tail” that protrudes at the back of the head, Cobra moved the center of gravity right to the back of the rear. Although this impacts aerodynamics, it can be offset against the improvement of the center of gravity and overall performance.
At the front of the head, you will find a circular CNC precision-milled face with a tilted bulge and roll axis. The precision milling creates a face that is up to 5 times more precise than a hand-polished face. The face utilizes the dual roll design providing more curvature on the upper face reducing spin and promoting a higher launch. On the other hand, the curvature on the lower end of the face has the opposite effect.
Sound
The sound produced by the Speedzone will put a smile on even the most grumpy golfer.
Technology
The Speedzone was designed to incorporate a vast amount of different technologies to optimize performance and forgiveness.
Cobra’s Speedzone Technology made great strides in revolutionizing the way drivers can create additional speed by combining aerodynamically shaped heads while retaining a low center of gravity.
Performance
The combinations of materials, design features, and construction of this club make it a great option for a wide range of golfers. It offers pretty much everything the average golfer will need in a driver.
Final Verdict
The Speedzone is loaded with technology and is extremely adjustable — there will be a setting that will suit every golfer’s requirements. It may take some time to work your way through all the options to achieve perfection. This is the best mid-handicap driver for those that need a little extra distance from their clubhead.
5. Best Budget – PXG 0221 Driver
Pros:
- Affordability
- Great aerodynamics
- Kevlar and carbon layered crown
- Increased ball speed and distance
- Superlight design
- Optimized internal weighting
Cons:
- Lacks adjustability
- Only available in one grip size
Specifications
- Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, and 12°
- Shaft: PX Hzrdus Black, Evenflow Riptide CD, Evenflow Riptide CB, or Cypher
- Adjustable Hosel: Yes
- Left-Hand Choice: Yes
PXG has been a leader in providing quality clubs with affordable prices.
In addition to championship-winning golf equipment, PXG produces some of the best golf equipment for amateurs.
A simple yet superlight design enables you to maximize your swing speed thus generating more distance.
PXG’s launch control carefully situates the weight to produce optimal spin and trajectory.
The PXG 0211 is constructed from advanced materials with a streamlined design. It encompasses precision weighting technology. The weave is unidirectional on the bottom layer of the crown for vibration reduction.
Loft
Keeping to the uncomplicated design, only three lofts are available for the D7 driver, 9°, 10.5°, or 12°.
9° is for faster swing speeds, 10.5° of loft is for average swing speeds, and 13° of loft is for slower swing speeds that want a higher launch and better spin.
Sound
The multi-material crown construction creates a crisp sound off the face of the 0211.
The 0211 driver is appealing to the eye at address. Quite rounded in shape but oversized, it inspires confidence and looks cutting edge, although we’d have liked it to be a little easier to align.
Performance
Using lightweight materials in the design and construction of the clubhead pays dividends with it weighing in at a mere 192 g. This enables you to swing the club faster than comparable drivers.
The technology improves accuracy without compromising distance. While the launch control with its internal weighting structure is not adjustable, it is set differently for each loft to maximize performance.
Final Verdict
An excellent driver for the price that will not leave you short off the tee.
Using lightweight materials for extra speed produces a combination of distance and accuracy that equals many drivers in the upper end of the pricing spectrum. This is likely the best driver for an average golfer on a budget.
To learn more about this great club check out our PXG 0211 review.
6. Cobra Golf LTDx Driver
Pros:
- Long hitting
- Excellent feeling
- Pleasing sound
- Very forgiving
Cons:
- Not much improvement on Cobra Radspeed
Specifications
- Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, and 12°
- Shaft: Project X Hzrdus Smoke Rdx Blue, Project X Hzrdus Smoke iM10 60, or UST Helium Nanocore
- Adjustable Hosel: Yes
- Left-Hand Choice: Yes
Shaft
The Cobra Golf LTDx comes with three shaft options. Two of these are from the Project X Hzrdus Smoke line, one of which is the Rdx Blue version and the other is the iM10 60. The third and final shaft is the UST Helium Nanocore. You can choose your stiffness from stiff to senior.
Loft
This driver is available in the standard lofts of 9º, 10.5º, and 12º.
Sound
The sound is more muted than the Radspeed. It’s also of a lower pitch giving off a satisfying cracking sound rather than the metallic sound that so many of us are accustomed to.
Technology
The drive features a newly designed H.O.T. face that incorporates 15 hitting zone across the clubface. Designed to improve forgiveness on off-center strikes, you get plenty of pace from almost everywhere.
By utilizing as much as 30% more carbon than on previous drivers, engineers positioned more weight lower and further forward. Thus amplifying speed and making it easier to get the ball airborne.
With adjustable weighting at your fingertips, you can tinker with the LTDx driver to suit your game style. Included are two weights weighing 3 g and 10 g. Position these in either the heel or back, depending on whether you prefer a neutral or draw ball flight.
Performance
Forgiveness really shines through with this model, which we mostly attribute to the H.O.T. face. You can expect yardage differences between good and bad strokes to be no more than around 25 yards.
Final Verdict
While it might not represent a big improvement on the Radspeed, the Cobra LTDx is an excellent driver. Its balance between distance and forgiveness makes it one of the best drivers for handicaps of 15 or so. If you’re interested in learning more, read our dedicated review on the Cobra LTDx, where we go into much more depth.
Read More: Best TaylorMade Drivers
7. TaylorMade Stealth Driver
Pros:
- Very fast
- High forgiveness
- Neutral ball flight
- Attractive design
- Features adjustable wrench
Cons:
- Expensive
Specifications
- Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, and 12°
- Shaft: Fujikura Ventus Red
- Adjustable Hosel: Yes
- Left-Hand Choice: Yes
Shaft
The shaft for the TaylorMade Stealth driver is the Fujikura Ventus Red. As for the flex, you can choose between regular, stiff, and senior.
Loft
Standard lofts of 9º, 10.5º, and 12º are available.
Sound
The carbon face gives off a slightly high-pitched sound which is a little quieter than most drivers. That being said, it still sounds formidable and doesn’t differ all that much if you do not hit the ball centrally.
Technology
The TaylorMade Stealth marks a key shift in the development of drivers. Where previously, titanium dominated, TaylorMade sought to innovate by introducing carbon. The 60X carbon face contains a staggering 60 layers of carbon sheets. These help to improve distance, and due to the anti-twist technology, you’ll find that your shots are much straighter and more accurate.
The head shape is another key area of note. Described as an ‘Asymmetric inertia generator’, the head shape helps to increase swing speed to get you more distance. The design also enables the placement of extra weight at the rear of the club, thus raising MOI and making the club more forgiving.
Performance
A very long and forgiving club with a satisfying sound to match. The highly efficient carbon face does exactly what it sets out to achieve.
Final Verdict
While the TaylorMade Stealth driver is a little on the expensive side, it is a good buy for many mid-handicappers as it will help give you that extra bit of distance. Just know that it doesn’t represent a big improvement on the previous SIM2 model. You can expect an extra 10-15 yards in terms of distance.
We also have a review for the Stealth driver available. This is well worth checking out if you are thinking about picking it up.
Best Driver for Mid Handicappers – Buying Guide
Mid-handicap golfers are in the enviable position where they have probably the largest range of drivers available. Where high-handicap golfers have a limited selection to choose from until they have fine-tuned their swing, mid-handicappers have much more freedom to take advantage of the available clubs.
At this stage of your game, the best golf driver for mid-handicappers should produce long, straight drives with little workability. You also want a big forgiving face with a high MOI for a forgiving trampoline effect.
Equipment manufacturers spend a fortune on research and development and release new equipment regularly. However, some all-time favorite drivers stay popular and produce the required results.
To enhance the use of your soon-to-be-purchased driver, visiting your nearest professional golfer for a club fitting would not be out of place and is highly recommended. You are investing in your game and it would be a good investment to make sure that you buy what will suit you best.
Skill Level
Mid-handicappers have achieved a level where their number of good shots exceeds their number of bad shots. This, therefore, allows them to invest in equipment that will complement their hard-earned skill level and improve aiming to become a single handicap golfer.
Head
The size of the head plays a big role in the amount of forgiveness that manufacturers can build into the face. More space leads to a bigger sweet spot and enhanced MOI. Not only is it more effective but it provides you with more confidence at address.
Loft
The loft of your driver will determine your launch angle, and manufacturers have made it a priority to make this as flexible as possible. The majority of drivers will allow extensive setting changes for enhanced performance and distance. They have taken into account that clubhead speed varies among golfers and produced a setup to suit every swing.
There is no best driver loft across the board. Rather, each player will have their own loft that they perform best at. As a general rule of thumb, players with slower swing speeds prefer higher lofts.
Adjustability
Adjustable drivers allow you to turn into a golfer who can shape their shots rather than a straight shooter player. There is nothing wrong with a straight shooter, but you will occasionally find yourself in a position where you need to shape the ball.
Shaft
Take special care in selecting a shaft that has the right fit in terms of flex, weight, and length for your specific conditions.
The incorrect selection of shaft can cause you to have erratic results forcing you to visit your professional regularly to iron out these deficiencies. Your swing speed will ultimately determine the shaft flex. For example, if you have a slower swing speed than most, you’ll likely want a flexible shaft as it has less resistance.
Lighter shafts tend to be whippier as a result of a faster swing.
The longer the shaft, the more inconsistent the swing will be. If you want the best mid-range driver possible, we recommend getting a fitted shaft as this will produce more consistency and accuracy off the tee.
Read More: Best Cobra Drivers
Final Thoughts
We have covered some of the leading driver options for the mid-handicap golfer. While they are all among the best golf drivers for mid-handicappers, the TaylorMade SIM MAX stands out as our top choice. It delivers powerful distance while remaining extremely forgiving. It also looks good and sounds excellent. This popular driver is easy to launch and has helped many golfers improve their game off the tee. It ticks all the boxes as the best driver for mid-handicap golfers.
Best Driver for Mid Handicapper 2023 FAQ
What Is the Easiest Driver to Hit for a Mid-Handicapper?
We recommend the TaylorMade SIM MAX for an easy driver to hit for mid-handicappers. The clubhead has a huge sweet spot and the club provides plenty of distance too.
What Is the Best Driver for a Mid-Handicap Golfer?
The best drivers for mid-handicappers focus less on forgiveness than for beginners, so any driver that allows for a huge launch and a little forgiveness for any bias is perfect for a mid-handicapper. Our favorite is the TaylorMade SIM MAX.
What Is Considered a Mid-Handicap in Golf?
Anyone with a handicap of between 11 and 20 could be considered a mid-handicap golfer.
Nick is the founder of GolfSpan and an avid golfer. He's not quite a pro but has over 15 years of experience playing and coaching golfers worldwide. His mission is to bring the golfing community a better experience when it comes to choosing the right golf gear and finding the right setup for your game.
