As a PGA-certified golf coach, I’ve always been drawn to the newest equipment on the market that could help my clients or myself with their game. This time, I tested and analyzed one of the most talked-about golf drivers – the TaylorMade Stealth Plus Driver.
I’ve put this driver through its paces over four days, testing it under various conditions to see if it lives up to the hype. Let’s dive right into this Taylormade Stealth Plus Driver review and explore whether this driver should be your next golfing investment.
Verdict: The Stealth Plus is a remarkable driver, delivering consistently high performance across different areas. Though its low spin performance might not suit golfers with slower swings, its overall attributes make it arguably the best TaylorMade driver to date.
TaylorMade Stealth Plus Driver River
Pros
- Impressive Spin Control: The Stealth Plus’ 60-layer carbon fiber face technology lends exceptional spin control, a feature I found extremely beneficial for achieving optimal ball speed.
- Superb Forgiveness: Despite its intimidating name, the Stealth Plus is a forgiving beast, maintaining consistent ball speed even on off-center hits.
- Workability: Taylormade Stealth Driver weight track is adjustable, which allows for slight shot direction modifications, giving you better control over your game.
- Consistent Performance: After repeated testing, the Stealth Plus displayed a consistent performance in terms of distance, feel, launch, and sound.
Cons
- Price Point: At around $600, the Stealth Plus is indeed an investment. However, considering its state-of-the-art features and performance, I believe it offers significant value.
- Aesthetic Appeal: This is more subjective, but some may find the design of the Stealth Plus less appealing compared to other models in the market.
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Who Is The TaylorMade Stealth Plus Driver Best For?
The TaylorMade Stealth Plus Driver is ideally suited for mid to low-handicap golfers. The driver’s unique attributes, like lower spin rates and adjustability, make it particularly effective for players who can control their shots well and want to fine-tune their launch angle and spin to achieve their desired ball flight and maximum distance.
The Stealth Plus is specifically designed for golfers seeking to decrease their launch angle and reduce spin. Therefore, it may not be as forgiving as other models, like the Stealth HD, for golfers with high handicaps or inconsistent swings.
It still offers much forgiveness, particularly maintaining ball speed on off-center hits.
This driver is also perfect for golfers who prefer the ability to adjust their clubs to promote a specific shot shape bias. The sliding weight track allows for this kind of precision, benefiting skilled players who need to make slight adjustments based on the course or their game strategy.
Are you a high handicapper looking for a similar driver? Read the Stealth Driver Review.
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How We Tested The Stealth Plus Driver
Golfspan only shares equipment and brands we trust.
I’m a PGA-certified golfer and instructor, and I thoroughly researched and evaluated the TaylorMade Stealth Plus. Our team hit numerous shots on the driving range and the course, analyzing launch angles, ball speeds, spin rates, and dispersion patterns.
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 this driver, I considered these criteria:
- Cost
- Distance
- Forgiveness
- Spin Control
- Overall Feel
- Adjustability
Read more: The Best TaylorMade Drivers
Taylormade Stealth Plus Review: Features & Specs
Delving deeper into the Stealth Plus, it becomes evident why this driver is touted as one of the best in the business.
60-Layer Carbon Fiber Technology
The first thing that grabbed my attention was the driver’s 60-layer carbon fiber face technology. This is not something you find every day, and it certainly impressed me with the level of control it provides over spin and ball speed.
Tensei 1K 50TX Shaft
The model I worked with had an 8º loft, played at 6.5º. The shaft type is Tensei 1K 50TX and HZRDUS Smoke Green RDX 65TX, giving the club a Tour Extra Stiff (TX) flex. This configuration added an additional dimension to my shots, providing a distinct edge regarding distance and accuracy.
Good Forgiveness
While the distance was nothing short of impressive, the driver’s forgiveness truly won me over. The consistent maintenance of ball speed on off-center hits was a clear testament to the Stealth Plus’s forgiving nature, making it a valuable tool for improving your game.
Nanotexture Technology
The nanotexture technology on the face of the club added to the Stealth Plus’s unique feel. Despite being different from what I was accustomed to with other drivers, it wasn’t distracting but rather enhanced the overall experience.
Low-Pitched Sound
The aesthetics of the driver might be subjective, but its performance certainly isn’t. While the sound of the Stealth Plus remained low-pitch and consistent with the TaylorMade brand, the workability it offered with the sliding weight track was a standout feature.
Stealth Plus Specs
| Specification | Details |
| Brand | TaylorMade |
| Model | Stealth Plus |
| Player Type | Men |
| Club Type | Driver |
| Dexterity | Right Hand |
| Length | Standard |
| Lie Angle | Standard |
| Loft | 8° (played at 6.5°) |
| Shaft Type | Tensei 1K 50TX and HZRDUS Smoke Green RDX 65TX |
| Flex | Tour Extra Stiff (TX) |
| Grip | Standard |
| Headcover | Yes |
| Tool | Yes |
| Shaft Material | Graphite |
| Style | N7407111 |
| SKU | 1060913-AAJ-1B7-AEH |
Stealth Plus Driver Performance Review
| Performance Aspect | Score (out of 100) |
| Distance | 98 |
| Forgiveness | 87 |
| Playability | 98 |
| Look | 94 |
| Sound & Feel | 89 |
Testing Conditions and Results
Over a span of four days, I tested the Stealth Plus under varying conditions. From sunny and calm to windy and overcast, this driver held its own, consistently delivering top-notch performance. Even under challenging conditions, it managed to maintain an impressive level of accuracy and distance.
Ball Speed and Distance
One aspect where the Stealth Plus truly shines is its ball speed. This driver consistently delivered some of the fastest ball speeds I’ve ever recorded during a testing session. The results were not just surprising but genuinely impressive, with the Stealth Plus offering a considerable edge over most other drivers I’ve used.
However, it’s worth noting that while the distance was impressive, it wasn’t the longest I’ve seen. Nevertheless, the consistency of the driver’s performance more than made up for it.
Feel and Sound
When it comes to feel and sound, the Stealth Plus is in a league of its own. The nanotexture technology on the face of the club significantly contributed to the overall feel, making it a pleasure to play with. The low-pitch sound is another delightful feature, consistent with what one would expect from a TaylorMade product.
Workability
As a golfer who values control, the workability of the Stealth Plus was a significant selling point for me. The sliding weight track feature allows for slight adjustments in shot directions, thereby increasing the driver’s workability. This feature was particularly handy during some tricky shots, making the Stealth Plus a versatile addition to my golf kit.
Forgiveness and Off-Center Hits
One of the standout features of the Stealth Plus is its forgiveness, especially when it comes to maintaining ball speed on off-center hits. This makes the driver an excellent choice for those who are looking to improve their game and reduce the impact of occasional mis-hits.
Launch and Spin
As someone who prefers a lower launch and spin, the Stealth Plus was right up my alley. It is well-suited for above-average golfers looking to decrease their launch angle and lower spin. Its performance in these areas was consistent and met my expectations.
It’s important to remember that the choice between the Stealth Plus and other drivers will largely depend on your personal preferences and specific needs. As for me, the Stealth Plus proved to be a robust, reliable, and versatile choice that added a new dimension to my game.
Stealth Plus Driver Potential Downsides
Although I’ve been highly impressed with the Stealth Plus, it would be remiss not to acknowledge that no product is without its flaws.
Aesthetics
When it comes to the aesthetic appeal of the Stealth Plus, it’s a matter of personal taste. For me, other drivers on the market might look a bit sleeker or have a more traditional appeal. The red face of the Stealth Plus is a bit of a departure from previous TaylorMade designs. However, it’s not distracting at address and actually gives the driver a distinct, modern look.
The matte black crown of the Stealth Plus creates a classic, compact shape when viewed from behind the ball, which I appreciate. But this might be a point of consideration for those who prefer a different aesthetic.
Price Point
At a price point of around $600, the Stealth Plus is more expensive than some other drivers offering similar or better performance metrics. It’s always wise to compare prices and weigh the product’s value against your budget and needs.
However, I would argue that the Stealth Plus provides significant value in terms of its advanced carbon fiber face technology, sound, control of spin and ball speed, large and forgiving face, and adjustable weighting.
Ideal for Faster Swinging Golfers
While the low spin performance of the Stealth Plus is ideal for golfers with faster swings, it might not be as suitable for those with slower swings. This is a factor that potential buyers might want to consider.
On a side note, we’ve got a list of the best low-spin drivers as well if you’re interested.
Not the Longest Driver
Though the Stealth Plus delivers impressive ball speed, it’s not the longest driver on the market. If maximizing distance is your top priority, you may want to consider other options. However, I can attest to the fact that the Stealth Plus offers impressive consistency, which might be more beneficial in the long run.
Taylormade Stealth Plus Key Features
In this section, I’ll comprehensively analyze the Stealth Plus Driver’s key features: the 60-layer carbon fiber face technology, adjustable weighting, and nano texture technology. Each of these attributes contributes significantly to the overall performance of the driver.
60-Layer Carbon Fiber Face Technology
The 60-layer carbon fiber face technology is the cornerstone of the Stealth Plus driver’s impressive performance. A carbon fiber face is significantly lighter than a titanium one, allowing TaylorMade to expand the face area while maintaining an optimal weight distribution.
As a result, this offers a larger, highly responsive area, translating into better ball speed consistency, even on off-center hits.
The carbon fiber face is also responsible for the Stealth Plus’ superior spin control. With its novel design, the driver delivers lower spin rates that benefit advanced golfers seeking to decrease their launch angle and optimize their distance.
The face’s construction also supports efficient energy transfer at impact, producing fast ball speeds.
Adjustable Weighting
The adjustable weighting system on the Stealth Plus is another remarkable feature. This driver is the only model in the Stealth lineup that provides this degree of adaptability. A 10-gram sliding weight on the sole allows golfers to fine-tune the club to promote a draw or fade bias.
A simple shift from the extreme toe to the heel can noticeably affect the ball’s flight direction, giving players a high control over their shots.
In addition to the sliding weight, the Stealth Plus also incorporates TaylorMade’s Loft Sleeve. This feature allows golfers to modify the loft by up to two degrees, up or down, to fine-tune launch conditions and optimize performance.
Nanotexture Technology
The Nanotexture technology enhances the overall feel of the Stealth Plus driver. While this might seem like a minor detail, the tactile quality of a driver plays a crucial role in a golfer’s performance.
The better the feel, the more confidence a golfer has when making a swing. This technology, combined with the 60-layer carbon fiber face, results in a powerful, satisfying impact feel, bolstering the player’s confidence and overall performance.
Moreover, the Nano texture technology also contributes to Stealth Plus’s low-pitch sound, which aligns with the TaylorMade brand’s reputation for high-quality acoustics.
Stealth HD vs Stealth vs Stealth Plus Taylormade
Having also had the chance to test the Stealth and Stealth HD, I noticed some significant differences compared to the Stealth Plus.
- The Stealth Plus targets above-average golfers who wish to decrease their launch angle and lower spin. It boasts superior ball speed, impressive distance, and a great feel, courtesy of its nanotexture technology.
- The Stealth and Stealth HD are more forgiving and may be better suited to higher-handicapped golfers looking for consistency in their shots. The Stealth and Stealth HD offer comparable distance and ball speed, but their forgiveness stands out, especially for golfers who struggle with off-center hits.
The decision between the Stealth Plus and its siblings will come down to personal preference and your game’s specific needs. For those looking for a low-spin driver with high workability and control, the Stealth Plus is definitely a better choice.
Taylormade Stealth Plus Alternatives
1. TaylorMade Stealth 2
The TaylorMade Stealth 2 is a compelling alternative to the Stealth Plus that caught my attention, mainly due to its subtly enhanced features. The Stealth 2 builds on its predecessor’s success by refining certain aspects, making it an excellent all-rounder suitable for a diverse range of golfers. Its refined and elegant aesthetics appeal to those who appreciate sleek designs. I noticed that it delivers a lively and consistent feel, which can significantly enhance the overall playing experience.
On the downside, the Stealth 2 didn’t offer substantial distance gains over its previous version, which might disappoint those seeking significant improvements. However, the ample forgiveness makes it suitable for better players, allowing for shaping shots.
If you’re looking for a full-scale Taylormade Stealth Driver Review, we’ve got you covered.
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2. Callaway Paradym Driver
As I tested the Callaway Paradym driver, I found it to balance power with forgiveness quite impressively. This driver has a broad appeal, ideal for various playing styles. It boasts premium, high-tech aesthetics and produces a lively feel upon impact, which adds a considerable thrill to every stroke.
What struck me was the mix of speed and consistency. However, it’s worth noting that it did not represent a massive leap forward compared to its predecessor. Nevertheless, the Paradym driver is a serious contender in the premium market and makes for a worthy alternative to the Stealth Plus.
[Click Here For More User Reviews]
3. TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD
Lastly, the TaylorMade Stealth HD stood out to me as an excellent alternative. As the most forgiving driver in the Stealth family, it has a higher MOI, which can benefit golfers struggling with off-center strikes. Its draw-biased design can be especially useful for golfers with a tendency to slice their drives, as it helps correct the right miss.
However, one thing to bear in mind is that its high forgiveness might lead to reduced workability. You might find this limiting if you’re a player who likes to shape your shots a lot. Still, the enhanced forgiveness and the added benefits of the 60X Carbon Twist Face make it a very viable alternative.
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FAQs
What Is The Difference Between The Stealth And Stealth Plus Driver?
The Stealth and Stealth Plus drivers differ mainly in their target golfer and design. The Stealth Plus is designed with a lower spin and launch, ideal for mid to low-handicap players who desire better control over their shots. On the other hand, the Stealth is more forgiving, making it more suitable for a wide range of golfers, including those who struggle with off-center hits.
Do Any Pros Use The Taylormade Stealth Driver?
Yes, many professional golfers use the TaylorMade Stealth driver. Seven top PGA tour pros, including Sepp Straka, Lucas Herbert, and Dustin Johnson, are currently using TaylorMade Stealth Plus Drivers, according to PGAClubTracker.com's database. This makes the TaylorMade Stealth Plus the sixth most popular driver on the tour.
How Do You Adjust The Taylormade Stealth Plus Driver?
The TaylorMade Stealth Plus driver features a sliding weight track and a Loft Sleeve. You can adjust the driver by moving the 10-gram sliding weight to promote a draw or fade bias. Furthermore, the Loft Sleeve allows you to modify the loft by up to two degrees, either up or down, fine-tuning your launch conditions to optimize performance. Always remember to tighten the weight properly to avoid any movement during your swing.
Final Thoughts — Stealth Driver 2023
The TaylorMade Stealth Plus Driver has definitely established itself as a favorite among PGA Tour players. Its popularity, ranking 6th on the PGA Tour, is a testament to its exceptional design and performance.
From my own experience of this Taylormade Stealth Plus Driver review, the driver’s advanced features, such as the 60-layer carbon fiber face technology, adjustable weighting system, and nano texture technology, were nothing to shy away from. If money is not an issue, I’d highly recommend this driver for all mid to low-handicappers.
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
