An upgrade on a golf driver is like buying a new car; we all become very enthusiastic about getting out there and trying it on the course. However, new prices prevent many of us from making the change, but solutions are available if you’re looking for cheap golf drivers. Thanks to the many golf sites on the internet, you can get some used clubs.
Just because they are used doesn’t mean they are past their best or are older models. Many golfers buy the latest drivers advertised but soon discover that the new club is not for them.
Changing drivers during most players’ golf careers is just something we all do. For many, it is a process of staying up to date with the latest technology, even if the upgrade does nothing for their game.
This is why many of the latest models hit the secondhand market regularly. Eventually, the player decides the latest is not the greatest for their game and trades the driver.
So let’s take a look at the best used drivers in 2023.
- TaylorMade Sim Max Driver -Best Overall
- Ping 425 Max Driver – Best for Beginners
- Cobra King Speedzone Black/Yellow Driver – Best Value
- Cobra LTDx MAX Black – Most Forgiving
- Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver – Best for High Handicappers
- Callaway GBB Epic Driver – Best for Distance
- Titleist TSi2 Driver – Best Budget
- TaylorMade Stealth -Best Pick for Modern Tech
- Callaway Epic Flash Driver
- TaylorMade Sim2 Max Driver
- Callaway Mavrik Max Driver
- Callaway Mavrik Sub Zero Driver
- XXIO X Driver
- Titleist TS1 Driver
- TaylorMade M5 Driver
Why Trust Golfspan
Golfspan is dedicated to improving your golf experience with honest and trustworthy reviews. This is why we have gathered some of the best, most experienced golfers and trainers for our golf reviews.
We believe in full transparency and do not receive any payment for our reviews from manufacturers. We may earn an affiliate commission from some links on our site.
How We Test Our Drivers and Rate Condition
All the drivers in this review went through testing by our team. The inspection included a physical inspection of the condition and a performance inspection of the golf course. As the drivers were all second-hand, they were in varied condition.
To make the reviews fair, we rated each club’s condition too. You may want to consider finding drivers in equivalent physical shape when purchasing for the review to be as accurate as possible for your used driver.
For the condition, we rated the drivers:
- Excellent– Barely been used. These clubs may have some ball markings and light scratches but are otherwise unblemished.
- Very Good- Used but appropriately maintained. These clubs may have normal ball markings, scratches, and wear on the shaft.
- Good- Used frequently and in playable condition. These clubs have some wear on the shaft and clubhead and some cosmetic blemishes.
- Value– Significant wear but still playable. These clubs have significant wear on the shaft, club head, and light rusting.
We do not have a rating for the lousy condition since they are not included in the reviews.
Best Used Golf Drivers
1. TaylorMade Sim Max Driver
Pros
- A forgiving driver with an 8 % increase in face size
- V sole design reduces drag on the turf
- Easy high launch
Cons
- Not a significant upgrade from the M6
- Head size not for all
- Game improvement driver not for low handicaps
TaylorMade continues to invent new ideas in drivers, and the Sim range has an all-new-shaped head. Advanced aerodynamics produce faster speed through the ball with maximum forgiveness, which makes it one of the most forgiving drivers. The multi-material construction offers a high MOI. TaylorMade calls it “Shape in Motion,” and the re-shaped sole design delivers more clubhead speed.
The head has been individually calibrated and injected to reach the threshold of the maximum legal limit of ball speed. Revolutionary face curvature reduces side spin and delivers straighter shots on mis-hits. Reduced side spin also diminishes hooks and slices, making this one of the best used TaylorMade drivers in 2023.
Condition: Very good
2. Ping 425 Max Driver
Pros
- Most MOI in Ping history
- Long and easy launch
- Very forgiving
Cons
- Not the longest driver on the market
- Sound at contact not loved by all
- Pricey
When released, this model Ping driver had the longest Moment of Inertia in the history of Ping drivers. In simple terms, the ball flies off the face without extra effort. The 26-gram tungsten movable weight adds forgiveness on all mis-hit shots, and a fair distance is maintained.
Weight saving comes from the advanced dragonfly crown technology, which Ping now uses in their latest models.
The CG can be altered by shifting the tungsten weight to a draw, neutral, or fade bias. Increased flex from the T9S+ forged face adds distance and easy launch for high-flying long straight drives. The driver sits beautifully at the address, creating confidence which is why it’s at the top of our list for best second-hand drivers.
Condition: Very good
3. Cobra LTDx MAX Black (Most Forgiving)
Pros
- Excellent forgiveness
- Lightweight and easy to hit
- Impressive distance
Cons
- Almost zero feedback
- Significantly shorter in testing than some of its rivals
- Minimal gains versus the cheaper Radspeed range
The Cobra drivers have been excellent in recent years, and the Cobra LTDx is now the brand’s highest-performing driver, costing slightly less than its immediate competitors. And, since we’re looking at second-hand drivers, even more so.
The driver has a great aesthetic, with a matte black carbon fiber crown and traces of orange around the head. The model’s head, best suited for beginners and higher handicap players, has a 3g weight placed near the heel of the head to facilitate a draw.
Cobra’s engineers upgraded the E9 face with a new variable thickness H.O.T. Face (Highly Optimized Topology) that is precisely calibrated for speed using machine learning and C.N.C. machining. They developed the world’s first zero C.O.G. driver, with the power core and weight placed low and in front of the face to facilitate higher ball speeds over the newly intelligent face.
Cobra optimized thicknesses in 15 separate zones to increase ball speed across a wider face region. These zones provide visual peaks and valleys that mimic a topological map, hence the name of the design.
Condition: Excellent
4. Cobra King Speedzone Black/Yellow Driver
Pros
- Easy launch
- Sleek looking at address inspires confidence
- Long and forgiving
Cons
- High-pitched sound at contact
- Limited performance gains from the K9 model
- Colour scheme not for all
Cobra has taken inspiration from Formula 1 race cars and optimized 6 zones to maximize performance and clubhead speed through every swing. The CNC-milled infinity face creates a power zone, while the T-bar speed chassis reduces the amount of titanium used. A 360 Degree carbon-wrap-crown reduces weight, and the speed back weighting is positioned low in the head, creating a low CG for a high launch with low spin ball flight.
Perimeter weighting around the head offers stability through all strikes and consistent distance. The black and yellow color scheme is attractive, and Cobra is known for its out-and-out length on all its drivers.
Condition: Very good
5. Callaway Epic Flash Driver
Pros
- Outstanding distance
- Adjustable perimeter weighting
- Premium shaft choice
Cons
- Elongated head shape
- Cost
- Sound at impact not for all
Callaway Epic Flash drivers employ a new Flash Face Technology to help golfers get more ball speed for more distance. Artificial Intelligence(AI) is the new buzzword in golf club design, and Callaway has taken this to new heights for optimal performance.
The internal Jailbreak Bars stiffen and stabilize the crown and sole, placing more load on the face to promote faster ball speed. A lighter Triaxial carbon fabric saves weight, which is distributed within the head to raise MOI for exceptional forgiveness on mis-hits. A sliding 16-gram weight allows golfers to choose their shot shape from neutral, fade, or draw bias.
Condition: Excellent
6. Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver
Pros
- Loft and lie can be adjusted
- Jailbreak Technology produces high ball speed
- Very stable through impact
Cons
- Expensive
- Light feel not for all
- No sliding weights
The Callaway Rogue driver lives up to its name in terms of performance. An attractive-looking driver that sits well at the address and inspires confidence over the ball. The Jailbreak Technology is still a great selling point for Callaway, and the distance results are proven.
Increased ball speed will always excite golfers as this equates to more distance off the tee. Another feature is the stability on mis-hits, and the dreaded vibration through the hands is minimal.
Fair distance is maintained even on these mis-hits. The high MOI generated off the face and a lower spin rate produces straight, long, and accurate tee shots. This makes it the best used golf driver for high handicappers. The Rogue is a severe game improver and should be tested.
Condition: Very good
7. Callaway GBB Epic Driver
Pros
- Geared for the player wanting increased distance
- Jailbreak Technology increases face flex and stability
- High MOI
Cons
- The sound at the impact is a bit dull
- Head design not for all
- All adjustments can be overkill for some
The Callaway Great Big Bertha Epic driver head is round and symmetrical and is easy on the eye at the address. This is the best driver for distance, geared for the player that has a repeatable ball flight and wants to increase distance and control off the tee. The ultra-light Triaxial Carbon Crown weighs only 9,7 gms and offers forgiveness and a high MOI.
Callaway has always produced fast face drivers, and the Jailbreak Technology allows the Epic to perform at its best. The bars stiffen the head’s structure, forcing the face to flex more, increasing ball speed. The opt-fit hosel allows for adjustment when required. The 17gm sole weight can be adjusted to vary spin through contact and is a feature the better player will incorporate on windy days to change the flight trajectory. The sound at impact is more of a carbon sound than the titanium sound of the XR16 driver.
Condition: Very good
8. Titleist TSi2 Driver
Pros
- TSi range best ever driver from Titleist
- Improved aerodynamics increase clubhead speed
- Great stability
Cons
- High launch characteristics not for all
- No shot shape adjustability
- Head design at address not for all
The Titleist TSi2 driver is a club for the golfer seeking some pronounced distance increase without losing control. The new face construction of ATI 425 Aerospace Titanium delivers incredibly fast ball speed off the entire face. The deeper, lower CG maximizes distance through Speed Optimized MOI design.
The improved aerodynamics increases speed through impact, and the stable head produces a powerful solid sound. Titleist claims the TSi range to be the hottest they have ever produced. In 2020 it was the most used driver on the PGA Tour. They claim the combination of looks, sound, feel, and great stability make this a winner for all skill levels. Titleist is a top brand and has won many major tournaments on the Tour, so it has to be a club worth testing on the course or the range.
Condition: Very good
9. TaylorMade Stealth (Latest Tech)
Pros
- Tons of Forgiveness
- Excellent distance off the tee
- Exceptional feel
Cons
- Higher price point
- No adjustable sliding weights
- Hard to find second-hand
The Stealth series from TaylorMade improves the quality of golf drives. This shift saw them go from the phase of titanium-dominant club heads to the era of Carbon, which is 40% lighter than a Titanium face, increasing your coefficient of restitution (COR) for a high launch, maximum ball speed, and amazing distance.
A polyurethane coating was added to the carbon fiber to boost spin in wet situations and provide the face with the proper amount of spin with optimal launch conditions. A microtexture is applied between the grooves for dry rounds to decrease spin at impact.
The TaylorMade Stealth driver’s major purpose was to provide better distance with higher and lower swing speeds. Improved ball speed, faster swing rates, and optimal launch circumstances achieve more distance. Although each member of the Stealth family takes a somewhat different approach, the Stealth drivers are fast, forgiving, and packed full of the latest tech. the only issue you’ll have is perhaps waiting for a secondhand one to become available.
Condition: Excellent
10. Callaway Mavrik Max driver
Pros
- Easiest Mavrik driver to hit consistently
- All the latest AI Technology from Callaway
- Adjustable weight setting for forgiveness or draw bias.
Cons
- Price tag
- Best for the average player
- Impact sound not for all
The new Mavrik drivers deliver performance that defies convention. The Mavrik Max is the easiest Mavrik driver to hit in the range. The Flash Face SS20 offers fast ball speed and forgiveness and gets the ball a long way down the fairway. The latest AI Technology architecture and face design optimize COR for high ball speeds and increased consistency.
Speed is maintained across the face ensuring minimal loss of distance on mis-hits.
The two interchangeable weights allow for maximum forgiveness or a setting for a draw bias. The extremely light FS2S titanium used in the face delivers consistent performance and provides optimal spin robustness, forgiveness, and speed.
You’ve got to try this one!
Condition: Very good
11. Callaway Mavrik Sub Zero Driver
Pros
- Low spin driver
- Adjustable weights for fine-tuning trajectory
- Optimum ball speed and forgiveness
Cons
- Slightly smaller head at 450cc
- Set loft correctly to attain benefits
- Price tag a bit steep
The Callaway Mavrik Sub Zero driver is loaded with the latest technology from Callaway. It is a low-spinning driver with a high MOI. The new AI-designed Flash Face SS20 delivers ball speed across the face. High-strength FS2S titanium, an extremely strong material that is 6 gms lighter than standard titanium, promotes optimum forgiveness, ball speed, and spin robustness.
The Jailbreak+T2c Triaxial Carbon Crown adds forgiveness and ball speed and the lighter crown allows for weight redistribution for higher MOI. The smaller 450cc head features 2 interchangeable weights in the front and the back. (14gm and 2gm). This allows adjustment to change the launch angle and spin rate.
Condition: Very good
12. XXIO X Driver
Pros
- Easy Launch
- Very forgiving on mis-hits
- Lightweight feel delivers more clubhead speed at impact
Cons
- The lightweight feel may not suit all
- Clubhead control may be lost
- Premium price tag
Dunlop Sports manufacture the XXIO X driver, and it is packed with performance for skilled players seeking lightweight performance and effortless speed. Built for the low to mid-handicap player, the carbon fiber sole and powerful deep straight cup face deliver improved speed forgiveness and launch. The cup face design compensates for mis-hits across the front and limits distance loss.
The high-impact energy head features Dunlops Flying Technology improving the resilience performance. Low swing MOI increases clubhead speed, and the lighter components and higher balance points add to this characteristic. The smart impact shaft has a unique flex profile that assists players in holding their balance through the swing.
Condition: Value
13. Titleist TS1 Driver
Pros
- High spin and launch off the tee
- Increased clubhead speed for extra distance
- Accuracy and control without swing tempo change
Cons
- Titleist head shape does not appeal to all
- Better players may want to go for the latest technology from Titleist
- The high launch and extra spin not for all
The earlier model of the TS range still offers good value and will deliver Titleist performance for those who feel the new technology is out of reach financially. The lightweight driver produces faster ball speed from every swing without a tempo change.
Players will accomplish decent distance and control off the tee with increased launch spin. The driver features a 0,4mm thick 8-1-1 Ti cast crown and improved aerodynamics for increased clubhead speed. The high launch trajectory is ideal for slow swing speeds, who sometimes struggle to get the ball airborne confidently.
The TS1 driver may be a slightly older model, but Titleist performance and forgiveness will always prevail.
Condition: Good
14. TaylorMade M5 Driver
Pros
- New technology to maximize distance and feel
- Maximum legal ball speed
- Sits well at address and pleasing on the eye
Cons
- Better players may want to keep up with the latest offering
- Weight positioning could be overkill for some
- Not much distance gains from the M3 model
The M5 has a multi-material head manufactured through a new process by TaylorMade. Drivers are Speed Injected to maximize ball speed and distance. The M5 has been individually calibrated to reach the threshold of the maximum legal limit of ball speed. Engineered to make everything faster. COR is optimized across the entire face.
The M5 features a revolutionary Twist Face Curve that provides more loft in the high-tow and less in the low heel to produce more of a consistent spin. A New Flexible Hammerhead slot works in conjunction with Speed Injected Twist Face to produce a larger sweet spot and preserve the ball speed on mis-hits. Inverted designs allow the weight to be positioned further back along the perimeter of the club. Efficient Inverse T-Track enables 2 x 10gm weights for optimal spin and trajectory.
This club has some serious technology and will still please many players today.
Condition: Excellent
15. TaylorMade Sim2 Max Driver
Pros
- Forgiving and long
- Adjustable head for lie and face angle and loft
- Mid-to-low spin rate reduces slices and hooks
Cons
- The better player may want to shape shots
- A lower trajectory not for all
TaylorMade describes the Sim2 Max as an all-in-one package driver. It offers a mid-to-high launch and spin rate for accuracy and sheer distance. The Sim2 Max is the shape of forgiveness with new innovative forged ring construction. It unlocks a new dimension in distance and forgiveness.
Forged from lightweight, high-strength aluminum that is milled to an exacting shape, it unites a massive rear weight, a full carbon sole, a crown, and a new milled back face cup. Added to this, the Sim2 Max is adjustable and has 12 different settings for the loft, face, and lie angle, using the four-degree sleeve on the hosel. The Sim2 Max has a higher MOI than the Sim model. A great driver for the player seeking forgiveness while still maintaining distance off the tee.
Condition: Excellent
What to Consider When Buying Preowned Drivers
As much as buying used golf drivers may be a good investment, there are some risks to be concerned about. If you are looking for the best used drivers to buy, then there are some things to consider so that you don’t end up with a useless used club.
Condition
One of the most important things to check before buying a used driver is its condition. You can usually tell the condition on reputable preowned sites by using the Used Rating, like very good condition, barely used, or almost new. Every site will use different rating systems, so check with the site before you buy.
For example, Global Golf offers a certified preowned option with a 12-month warranty and a few other benefits.
Keep in mind that the condition of the driver will determine its value. Sometimes buying a used driver may not be a financially viable investment, especially if you have to do things like regripping, which would cost you up to $100.
Authenticity
There are several counterfeit products, so you should always be on your toes when buying used drivers.
One way to guarantee the driver’s authenticity is to buy it from the original manufacturers. However, very few manufacturers sell preowned golf clubs.
There are also ways to check the authenticity of the driver when shopping in a physical store since no matter how good the counterfeit is, it can never match up to the original. Grip logos and brand logs are one good way to check the authenticity of the driver since most counterfeits will use paint or be missing entirely. If the driver is used, the paint is likely to have chipped.
The color, size, and design may also differ from the original. It’s essential to do thorough research if you are not going to buy from a recognized dealer or the original manufacturer.
Your Specs
Knowing your specs before buying used drivers is vital since it will be difficult to get an exchange. You need to know your height and swing speed to pick the right loft driver for you. You must also check the driver’s adjustability to suit your needs, as the driver may have been fitted for a different player.
Appearance
As much as you are purchasing used drivers, appearance is still an important aspect to consider. The appearance also attests to the quality and condition of the driver.
Of course, since they are golf drivers that have been used before, some wear will be expected on the surface, such as ball marks, scratches on the face and sole, minor nicks on the crown, and paint blemishes on or around the crown.
You’ll need to decide just how much aesthetic wear you are comfortable with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Would You Purchase Used Clubs?
Buying used clubs is a good idea for budget-conscious players since you save money on them. You can also find excellent clubs for an incredible bargain. If you decide the club isn’t a good match for you and want to resell it, you’ll get a less financial hit with a second-hand golf club than with a brand new one.
Where Are the Best Places to Buy Used Golf Equipment?
The best places to buy used golf equipment are at your local golf store since most of them also deal with second-hand equipment. You can check the quality and test the equipment before you purchase them.
You can also find the best used golf clubs at the original manufacturers’ websites. Some original manufacturers, like Callaway, sell second-hand versions of their golf equipment. Be careful with online stores like eBay since it’s hard to confirm the authenticity of the equipment you are buying.
There are also plenty of other trustworthy sites that offer warranties with their second-hand clubs. One such example is GlobalGolf.com, one of our favorite places to buy golf gear.
Should I Buy Second-Hand Golf Clubs?
Yes, buying second-hand golf clubs is a good idea. You can get some excellent used drivers for a better price. It is perfect if you are a beginner and are unsure how financially deep into golf you want to get. Instead of investing in brand new golf clubs, you can get used golf club drivers at great value.
You may also not necessarily be a beginner, but you often change clubs or are still looking for the best club for you. In that case, used clubs are a better investment than consistently buying brand-new ones.
Can I Sell My Used Golf Clubs?
You can definitely sell your used golf clubs, and that’s a good way to save on the costs of your clubs. A good idea would be to trade them in at a local store or dealer. You can also sell them online on Amazon or eBay.
Final Thoughts
While all the latest head development and technology is the focal point, shaft selection will play a huge role in the success of the driver purchased. Remember, the shaft is the engine of the club, and using the correct flex and kick-point will give the best results.
Test the driver before purchase.
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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.
