As a dedicated golfer and equipment enthusiast myself, I’m thrilled to introduce you to the game-changing world of mini-driver for 2023. These golfing marvels embody the perfect balance between a driver and a fairway wood, offering significant game-improvement capabilities for golfers of all levels.
Here are the 10 best mini drivers:
- Taylormade 300 Mini Driver 13.5 Degree—Best Overall
- Autopilot A14—Best Value
- Honma Golf TR20 440 Driver—Premium Choice
- Titleist TSR4 Driver
- 905T Titleist Driver
- Callaway Mavrik Subzero Driver — Most Forgiving
- TaylorMade Golf M5 Tour Driver
- TaylorMade Original One Mini Driver
- Callaway Bertha Mini 1.5 Driver
In our quest to identify the best of the best, we’ve swung, scrutinized, and shortlisted an array of mini drivers, each uniquely crafted to fit diverse golfing styles and proficiencies. So, buckle up as I take you through this comprehensive guide on the best mini drivers of 2023 to supercharge your game off the tee.
3 Featured Mini Drivers
| Best Overall | Best Value | Premium Choice | |
| Product | Taylormade 300 Mini Driver 13.5° | Autopilot A14 | Honma Golf TR20 440 Driver |
| Pros | – Compact size allows for better control | – Compact and lightweight, facilitating maneuverability | – Heightened COR for better energy transfer |
| – Versatile use from tee and fairway | – Enables squaring up at the point of impact with ease | – Adjustable loft and lie for customization | |
| Cons | Smaller size might affect confidence | The unique shape can require an adjustment period | Moderately expensive |
| Price Score | Out of 100 | Out of 100 | Out of 100 |
| Forgiveness | 95/100 | 90/100 | 80/100 |
| Distance | 90/100 | 94/100 | 82/100 |
| Adjustability | 85/100 | 90/100 | 91/100 |
| Rating | 4.8/5 | 4/5 | 4.6/5 |
What is a Mini Driver?
As a professional golf instructor, I can tell you that a mini driver is a game-changing club I highly recommend. It combines the best features of a driver and a fairway wood, offering a compact design that enhances control and precision.
In the mini driver vs driver debate, the former provides golfers, including myself, with a unique option to improve accuracy and distance off the tee. These are particularly useful for narrow airways when you still want some distance off the tee.
When to Use a Golf Mini Driver
In golf, the mini driver can be a strategic game asset. It shines particularly on narrow fairways where you’re playing off the tee. Its construction provides more accuracy and a forgiving nature; hence a slight mistake won’t always result in a terrible shot.
Moreover, mini drivers come in handy for longer shots on the fairway, offering a degree of consistency that may outperform standard drivers. You’d turn to a mini driver when precision matters most in your gameplay.
Are Mini Drivers Easier to Hit?
The answer is a resounding yes. Thanks to their compact structure and lower gravity center, Mini drivers promote better control and accuracy by allowing a high launch with less spin.
They offer a larger room for error, so even off-center hits may not be as punishing. This ease of hit makes mini drivers an attractive alternative to full-sized drivers, especially for golfers dealing with consistency issues.
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.
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How We Reviewed These Products
Golfspan only shares equipment and brands we trust.
I’m a PGA-certified golfer and instructor, and I thoroughly researched and evaluated the Mevo+. Then an editor reviewed and fact-checked the review. Finally, we conduct regular content audits to update and revise our reviews to ensure you receive the latest information.
When researching these mini drivers, I considered these criteria:
- Cost
- Distance
- Forgiveness
- Spin
- Speed
- Feel
Read more: The Best Small Head Drivers
9 Best Mini Drivers 2023 — Mini Drivers Review
1. Taylormade 300 Mini Driver 13.5 Degree—Best Overall
Pros
- Compact size allows for better control
- Versatile use from tee and fairway
- Exceptional forgiveness
Cons
- Smaller size might affect confidence for some golfers
- Adjustability options are limited
Key Features
- Speed pocket technology for high launch and low spin
- Compact 300cc design
- V-Steel sole design for improved turf interaction
Upon testing the Taylormade 300 Mini Driver 13.5 Degree, I was impressed by its compact and user-friendly design. The smaller 300cc head might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I found it to provide an enhanced level of control and versatility, allowing me to use it effectively from both the tee and the fairway.
The V-Steel sole design offered improved turf interaction, making it a joy to play with. The Speed Pocket technology embedded in the design was a game-changer, delivering a high launch and low spin for maximum distance.
On the other hand, the small driver size might not inspire confidence in all golfers, particularly those who prefer the appearance and feel of larger drivers. Also, the adjustability options were a bit limited compared to other drivers on the market. In that case, an alternative like the Callaway Rogue Triple Diamond LS Driver could be a better fit with its additional customization options.
To sum it up, the Taylormade 300 Mini Driver 13.5 Degree, MiDr Proto 65 Regular Flex is a reliable, compact, and versatile driver, suitable for golfers seeking control and versatility.
Rating: 4.8/5
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2. Autopilot A14—Best Value
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight, facilitating maneuverability
- Enables squaring up at the point of impact with ease
- Provides a high level of forgiveness on off-center hits
- Complies with tournament regulations
Cons:
- The unique shape can require an adjustment period
- May lack the visual appeal for traditionalists
Key Features:
- The weight is positioned further from the center, enhancing accuracy
- USGA-approved for tournament play
- Includes a one-year manufacturer warranty
As a seasoned golfer, I’m always open to testing out unique equipment, and the Autopilot A14 certainly caught my attention with its unconventional design. Despite its distinctive shape, it didn’t take long for me to appreciate this compact driver’s performance.
What I particularly liked about the A14 is how it effortlessly aids in squaring up the clubface at impact. This is largely due to the forward-positioned weight, which increases accuracy and simplifies launching the ball.
One feature that stood out during my trials was its high moment of inertia (MOI). The forgiveness on mishits was impressive, maintaining a decent trajectory even with off-center hits. This is an attractive quality for golfers at all levels of proficiency.
Although the unique design offers various performance benefits, it initially required some attention. This might be a hurdle if you’re a golfer who prefers a more traditional look and feel. However, given the performance benefits, I found this to be a small compromise.
Alternatively, the Callaway Big Bertha Mini 1.5 Driver might be a more suitable choice if you’re looking for something closer to the traditional driver design but still offering a smaller, more manageable size.
Rating: 4/5
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3. Honma Golf TR20 440 Driver—Premium Choice
Pros
- Heightened COR for better energy transfer
- Adjustable loft and lie for customization
- Promotes faster clubhead speed
Cons
- Moderately expensive
- Smaller head size may not be ideal for all golfers
Key Features
- Titanium carbon fast frame for lightness and speed
- 10.5-degree loft suitable for moderate swing speeds
- Vertical grooves on the clubface for enhanced ball speed
The first thing that struck me about the Honma Golf- TR20 440 Driver was its distinct design. Its light frame and the 10.5-degree loft seemed ideal for golfers with moderate swing speeds. As I tested this driver, the heightened COR certainly offered better energy transfer, resulting in longer and more accurate shots.
The vertical grooves on the clubface contributed to a consistent ball flight and increased ball speed. Plus, the adjustable loft and lie settings add a nice touch of customization that can cater to individual golfing styles.
On the downside, this driver comes with a relatively high price tag, and the smaller head size may not be everyone’s preference. Golfers who prefer larger drivers might want to consider the Callaway Big Bertha Mini 1.5 as an alternative.
All in all, the Honma Golf- TR20 440 Driver provides a unique blend of design and technology, making it a worthy consideration for golfers looking to enhance their performance.
Rating: 4.6/5
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4. Titleist TSR4 Driver
Pros
- Low spin rates for better control
- High MOI design for improved forgiveness
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Less forgiving for off-center hits
- Might require more skill to maximize benefits
Key Features
- Multi-Plateau VFT Design
- Three distinct launch and spin profiles
As I picked up the Titleist TSR4 Driver, I could feel the excellent build quality that Titleist is known for. This driver is engineered for golfers who need low spin rates and a high level of control.
The Multi-Plateau VFT Design contributes to high ball speed and a low center of gravity (CG). The driver also has 3 profiles to choose from, allowing you to add to the speeds, providing a powerful launch.
However, I noticed that this driver can be less forgiving for off-center hits, which might require more skill to maximize the benefits. I would suggest the Ping G400 as a more forgiving alternative for golfers who struggle with this.
Overall, the Titleist TSR4 Driver offers advanced features and high-quality construction to benefit low-handicap golfers and those needing to control spin rates better. It’s not the easiest driver to handle, but it can be a real game-changer once mastered.
Rating: 4.5/5
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5. 905T Titleist Driver
Pros
- Attractive appearance at address
- Increased forgiveness across the face
- Smooth feel and pleasant acoustics
Cons
- Expensive
- Smaller head size might affect confidence for some golfers
Key Features
- Titanium face for fast ball speed
- Variety of loft options to suit different swing speeds
- Penetrating ball flight for maximum total distance
As a golf enthusiast, I was excited to try the 905T Titleist Driver. With its sleek and attractive appearance, it commands a strong presence. I found that the titanium face delivered as promised, offering fast ball speed and a penetrating ball flight that’s sure to enhance overall game performance.
I particularly appreciated the range of loft options available, catering to all swing speeds. This makes the driver a versatile choice for a variety of players. The forgiveness across the face was another standout feature, providing consistency in hits.
However, I observed that the premium qualities of the 905T Titleist Driver also translate to a higher price tag. Additionally, the smaller head size could deter some golfers, particularly beginners, who might be more confident with larger drivers. In that case, the Callaway Big Bertha 23 could be an excellent driver alternative.
In conclusion, the 905T Titleist Mini Driver offers a premium golfing experience with its high-performance features and elegant design, justifying its higher price point.
Rating: 4.4/5
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6. Callaway Mavrik Subzero Driver — Most Forgiving
Pros
- Exceptional forgiveness
- Lower spin rates
- Enhanced adjustability features
- Innovative aerodynamic shape
- High MOI design for more stability
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
- Not very mini
Key Features
- Two interchangeable weights (14g and 2g) for MAX forgiveness or MAX draw
- Flash Face SS20 promotes fast ball speed across a more expansive area
- Jailbreak + T2C Triaxial Carbon Crown for optimal ball flight and forgiveness
When I first picked up the Callaway Mavrik Subzero Driver, the noticeable sophistication of its design was striking. I found the sleek, aerodynamic shape quite appealing, but, as any golfing enthusiast knows, it’s not just about looks. Thankfully, this driver goes above and beyond in performance, too.
In my testing, the driver was exceptional in forgiveness due to its high MOI design and the groundbreaking Flash Face SS20 technology. Even on off-center hits, I was amazed at the ball speed and the distance it achieved.
The lower spin rates gave the drives an extra punch, keeping the ball on a straight line. The Jailbreak and T2C Triaxial Carbon Crown also worked together to provide an optimal ball flight and added forgiveness.
Adjustability is integral to a great driver, and the Mavrik Subzero also shines in this department. Including two interchangeable weights (14g and 2g) gives golfers the freedom to optimize their shots for MAX forgiveness or MAX draw. The customization, I found, is a boon for golfers who like to tinker with their equipment and fine-tune their game.
The price point might be a bit steep for some, particularly for beginners who might not need all the features packed into this driver. If the budget is a concern, I’d recommend the Ping G400 as a more value-friendly alternative. Although not as small as the others on this list, it’s a well-rounded club and arguably one of the best drivers around.
Rating: 4.8/5
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7. TaylorMade Golf M5 Tour Driver
Pros
- Highly customizable
- Aerodynamic shape for enhanced speed
- Compact design for better control
Cons
- Higher price point
- Might require more skill to optimize performance
Key Features
- Speed Injected technology for optimal speed
- Twist Face technology for reduced side spin
- Inverse T-Track for precise CG adjustability
When I held the TaylorMade Golf M5 Tour Driver in my hands, I was immediately drawn to its compact and sleek design. This driver is built for speed, and the Speed Injected technology certainly lives up to its promise, delivering optimal speed.
The Twist Face technology helps reduce side spin on off-center hits, contributing to overall control. The Inverse T-Track offers incredible customization, allowing for precise CG adjustability, which I found quite impressive.
However, all these features come at a higher price point, which might be a barrier for some golfers. Additionally, this driver may require more skill to optimize its performance fully. For those looking for a more straightforward and more affordable alternative, the Ping G400 could be a great option.
Rating: 4.7/5
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8. TaylorMade Original One Mini Driver
Pros
- Improved dispersion compared to a regular driver, increasing accuracy.
- Lightweight, making it easier to swing and manage.
- Usable from the fairway, providing versatility.
- Unique 275cc head design, resembling more a 3 wood than a small driver, potentially appealing to golfers preferring smaller-headed clubs.
- Twist Face technology helps keep the ball flying straighter, even on slightly off-center hits.
Cons
- Glove-style headcovers may not be to everyone’s liking.
- The club doesn’t go as far as a normal-sized, lower-lofted driver, sacrificing distance for control.
Key Features
- Carbon composite crown with a matte finish
- Adjustable loft to modify the club to different playing conditions
- Speed Pocket design
- Club length of 43.75 inches
- Twist Face technology for enhanced ball flight on off-center strikes
As an experienced golfer, I was excited to test out the TaylorMade Original One Mini Driver, a tribute to the company’s 40th anniversary. I was particularly intrigued by its promise of improved dispersion and accuracy, traits highly valued in my golfing arsenal.
The first thing I noticed about the club was its unique aesthetics. The matte finish on the carbon composite crown caught my eye, and the 275cc head appeared more akin to a 3-wood than a mini driver, sparking my curiosity. The TaylorMade symbol on the crown served as a useful alignment aid, and the club’s overall size seemed very manageable for my swing.
Upon testing, I was immediately pleased with the solid feel at impact. I could sense the Twist Face technology’s contribution to maintaining the ball’s trajectory, even on those off-center hits, which really boosted my confidence. The Mini Driver’s adjustability with loft settings offered a customized golfing experience, accommodating different play conditions and preferences.
Yet, it wasn’t all flawless. The trade-off in distance was a noticeable downside. My average total distance turned out to be similar to my carry distance with a standard driver. The high spin rates from the tee also seemed to compromise distance, a point to consider for those looking to maximize their reach off the tee.
An excellent alternative to the TaylorMade Original One Mini Driver is the Callaway Epic Flash Driver.
Rating: 4.6/5
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9. Callaway Bertha Mini 1.5 Driver
Pros
- Offers distance comparable to drivers and the playability of fairways
- 455 Carpenter Steel Face Cup promotes increased ball speed
- Comes in two head lofts (12° and 14°) that can be adjusted up 2° or down 1°
- Shallow face and more rounded profile promote greater forgiveness
Cons
- The club’s suitability depends heavily on the specific needs and preferences of the golfer
- 12° head with a 2-inch shorter shaft may feel unnerving for some players
Key Features
- 455 Carpenter Steel Face Cup for maximum ball speed
- Optifit hosel for loft adjustability
- Stock shaft is the 65g Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Silver TiNi
- Sole features a slight camber reminiscent of the classic Warbird sole
As a dedicated golfer, I was immediately drawn to the Bertha Mini 1.5 Driver. It’s an impressive piece of equipment with many advanced features that improve performance on the green. The premium price point indicates its high quality, but it’s a worthy investment for those serious about their game.
The forged composite material in the crown, which weighs a mere 9 grams, is a significant highlight. It allows Callaway to manipulate the club’s weight, pushing the Centre of Gravity low and back for greater launch and more forgiveness. I got a fair amount of yardage from the tee and even from the fairway.
The face design, a trusted 455 Carpenter Steel Face Cup, does an exceptional job of maximizing ball speed, offering an impressive enhancement in the distance.
However, one could argue that the driver’s performance could depend heavily on individual golfer preferences, which can be seen as a con. For instance, I found the 12° head with a 2-inch shorter shaft almost disconcerting as it matched the distance I got from my regular driver too closely.
In terms of alternatives, the Callaway Big Bertha Alpha 815 driver, with its larger head size and Speeder 565 shaft, provided me with more forgiveness and accuracy. However, the Bertha Mini 1.5 was considerably easier to hit from the fairway.
The Mini’s shaft, the 65g Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Silver TiNi, does a great job at ensuring a healthy combination of length for distance and control for accuracy.
If you’re solely interested in Callaway, check out their drivers released by the year.
Rating: 4.7/5
How to Choose the Right Best Mini Driver
- Evaluate Your Game: Your gameplay and the challenges you commonly encounter should be your guiding factors. The right mini driver enhances your strengths and mitigates your weaknesses.
- Clubhead Size: A mini driver with a larger clubhead could be the key for golfers seeking distance, as it often results in more substantial coverage.
- Loft Angle: Consider a mini driver with a higher loft if you’re chasing distance. The right loft angle can improve the trajectory and, in turn, enhance the range of your shot.
- Shaft Length: The shaft length affects your swing and the travel distance of your ball. Choosing the length that suits your height and swing style is crucial.
- Adjustability: If your goal is to increase accuracy, opt for a mini driver that offers adjustable features. These could be instrumental in optimizing your swing dynamics.
FAQs
Are Mini Golf Drivers Any Good?
Mini golf drivers are highly effective tools for improving accuracy and control on the golf course. Their compact size offers easier manageability while striking a balance between distance and precision.
Do Pros Use Mini Drivers?
Certainly, professional golfers widely embrace mini drivers to elevate their game. These specialized clubs provide a unique combination of increased distance and enhanced accuracy, making them particularly valuable in competitive tournaments.
What Companies Make A Mini Driver?
Several renowned golf companies, such as Callaway, TaylorMade, Titleist, and Srixon, manufacture high-quality mini drivers. These trusted brands ensure diverse options to cater to different golfer preferences.
How Far Can You Hit A Mini Driver?
The distance achieved with a mini driver depends on individual swing speed, but on average, golfers can expect to achieve distances ranging from 220 to 260 yards. It's important to note that personal technique and other factors can also impact the results.
Are Mini Drivers More Forgiving?
Absolutely, mini drivers are specifically designed with forgiveness in mind. Their higher Moment of Inertia (MOI) helps to mitigate the negative effects of off-center hits, making them an excellent choice for golfers aiming to improve accuracy and maintain consistency in their shots.
On a side note, we’ve also got a list of the best Callaway drivers if it catches your fancy.
Final Thoughts
Having personally tested these mini drivers and seen their impact on the course, I can confidently stand behind our top pick for 2023, the Taylormade 300 Mini Driver 13.5 Degree.
It’s a standout performer with its exceptional distance coverage, adjustable weights for customization, and cutting-edge tech, delivering an unparalleled golfing experience. But what impresses me the most is its combination of forgiveness and control, which is valuable for golfers.
Clint is PGA-certified and was a Head Teaching Professional at one of Toronto's busiest golf academies. He was also featured on Canada's National Golf TV program, "Score Golf Canada," twice. He graduated with a degree in Golf Management from the College of the Desert in California and studied under Callaway's co-founder, Tony Manzoni.
He has a handicap index of 6.2 and spends the winters near Oaxaca, Mexico, where he plays twice a month at the Club de Golf Vista Hermosa. He's written over 100 articles at GolfSpan since 2021. You can connect with Clint at LinkedIn, FB, his website, or Clintcpga@gmail.com.
- Best score: 68
- Favorite club: Odyssey White Hot Two-Ball Center-Shafted Putter
- Favorite ball: Titleist Pro V1x
- Favorite food at the turn: Hot dog
