As an amateur golfer with a finite budget, I’m always on the hunt for that perfect meeting point between price and performance when it comes to my golf gear.
However, for many players, not nearly enough attention is given to the thing we use the most in our round: the golf ball.
With a myriad of options available, it can be challenging to determine whether investing in an expensive golf ball is truly worth it or if a cheaper alternative will suffice.
In this article, I’ll delve into the differences between cheap and expensive golf balls and their impact on your performance.
I’ll explore the pros and cons of each, highlight relevant types and brands, and examine how these balls perform in terms of ball speed, spin rate, and durability.
By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which golf ball aligns best with your skill level, budget, and desired performance on the course.
Table of contents
Pros and cons of cheap golf balls
There are a range of advantages and disadvantages when it comes to using cheap golf balls.
The advantages
While inexpensive options may not boast the same level of performance as their pricier counterparts, they do offer some enticing benefits, particularly for beginners or occasional golfers.
On the positive side, the affordability of cheap golf balls is hard to ignore.
They are readily available at a fraction of the cost compared to high-end alternatives, making them an attractive choice for those on a tight budget.
As a beginner, investing in a less expensive ball allows you to focus on developing your swing and gaining experience without breaking the bank.
Over the years I have found anxiety about losing pricey golf balls to be extremely detrimental to my performance, so sometimes a cheaper option can actually help you swing more freely without every lake ball sending a dollar induced shiver down the spine.
However, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks of using cheap golf balls.
The disadvantages
One common issue is their performance in terms of distance and control.
Cheap golf balls often lack the advanced technologies found in more expensive options, resulting in reduced ball speed and less control over shots.
This can be frustrating for intermediate or advanced players who require a higher level of performance to achieve their desired outcomes on the course.
Moreover, the quality of materials used in cheaper golf balls may impact their durability.
While they might hold up fine during a few rounds, frequent use can lead to scuffs, cuts, and decreased longevity.
It’s crucial to weigh the trade-off between price and durability when deciding whether a cheap golf ball is the right fit for your game.
Pros and cons of expensive golf balls
Much like cheaper options, expensive golf balls see a range of advantages and disadvantages too.
While they may come with a heftier price tag, there are compelling reasons why avid golfers, and the weekend hacker, often opt for these high-end options.
The advantages
One of the significant benefits of expensive golf balls is their high-performance features.
These balls are meticulously designed and engineered to provide optimal distance, spin rates and control.
Advanced technologies, such as multi-layer constructions and high-compression cores, contribute to increased ball speed off the tee and better control around the greens.
For skilled golfers who demand precision in their shots, expensive golf balls can make a noticeable difference in their game.
Furthermore, expensive golf balls often excel in spin control.
By using advanced cover materials like urethane and specialized designs, they offer enhanced control over the ball’s spin, allowing skilled players to shape shots and manage their trajectory more effectively.
This level of spin control is particularly advantageous for approach shots and shots around the green, where precise control is essential.
Funnily enough, while increased backspin sounds great for the high handicapper who struggles to hold greens, it also means that sidespin is exacerbated, leading to worsened hooks and slices, so this must also be taken into account.
The disadvantages
It is, however, important to acknowledge the drawbacks of expensive golf balls, primarily centered around their cost.
These high-end options can be significantly pricier compared to their cheaper counterparts, with a dozen top of the range golf balls being in the vicinity of double their cheaper counterparts.
While they provide excellent performance benefits, the price may not be justified for beginners or occasional golfers who may not fully utilize the added features, or just lose high quantities of golf balls when they play.
Types and brands of cheap and expensive golf balls
To provide a better understanding of the options available, let’s explore some examples of both cheap and expensive golf balls.
Best budget golf balls
When it comes to cheap golf balls, there are various budget-friendly options that offer decent performance without breaking the bank.
Brands such as Wilson, Top Flite, and Srixon provide affordable golf balls that cater to beginners and golfers with lower swing speeds.
These balls are designed to provide a good balance of distance and control at a more accessible price point.
Some options worth considering:
Best premium golf balls
On the other end of the spectrum, expensive golf balls offer top-tier performance and cutting-edge technologies.
Brands like Titleist, Callaway, and TaylorMade are renowned for their premium golf balls that cater to the needs of skilled golfers.
Examples include:
These balls are engineered to deliver exceptional distance, control, and spin, ensuring that every shot feels precise and consistent.
Understanding the types and brands available in both cheap and expensive categories will help you make an informed decision based on your preferences, skill level, and budget.
But remember, finding the right golf ball is a personal choice that depends on your specific needs and goals on the course.
Even factors such as sound off the club face, patterns or color and general appearance may all impact how you perform with a certain ball.
Performance: ball speed, spin rate and durability
When it comes to golf ball performance, three key factors come into play: ball speed, spin rate, and durability.
Understanding how cheap and expensive golf balls differ in these areas will help you assess their impact on your game.
Ball speed is a crucial aspect that directly affects the distance a ball travels off the tee.
Expensive golf balls often feature advanced core designs and high-compression materials that maximize energy transfer upon impact, resulting in higher ball speeds.
This means longer drives and increased overall distance. In contrast, cheaper golf balls may lack these advanced technologies, leading to slightly lower ball speeds and shorter distances.
Spin rate is another critical consideration, especially for more experienced players who want better control over their shots.
High spin golf balls, often found among the expensive options, generate increased backspin on full shots, allowing for better control and stopping power on the greens.
Skilled golfers can manipulate the spin to shape their shots and stop the ball more quickly.
Conversely, cheaper golf balls may offer less spin control, which can make it challenging to achieve the desired shot shape or stopping power on approach shots and chips.
These balls may, however, be less aggressive in their hooking or slicing capabilities.
Durability is a further factor to consider, as no golfer wants a ball that scuffs easily or wears out quickly.
Expensive golf balls generally utilize higher-quality materials, resulting in improved durability.
The outer cover and layering designs of these balls are engineered to withstand the rigors of multiple rounds without significant signs of wear.
On the other hand, cheaper golf balls, while more affordable, may have a shorter lifespan due to their lower-quality materials.
Frequent use can cause scuffs, cuts, and decreased performance over time.
How to choose the right golf ball for you
1. Consider your ability
First and foremost, when selecting the right golf ball for you, consider your ability level.
If you are a beginner or an occasional golfer, cheap golf balls can offer a cost-effective solution.
They provide reasonable performance and help you develop your skills without the need for advanced features that may be unnecessary at this stage of your golfing journey.
As you progress and become more consistent in your swings, you can gradually transition to higher-performing golf balls.
I feel like most brands out there have a nice ‘intermediate’ level golf ball as well, so you may not necessarily need to make a huge leap from bargain balls to breaking the bank.
Balls like the Titleist Tour Soft and Callaway Super Soft can be perfect transition options as your game improves.
2. Decide on your budget
Next, factor in your price range. It’s essential to find a balance between performance and affordability.
If budget is a significant concern, opting for cheaper golf balls can still provide adequate performance while saving you money.
On the other hand, if you have a more flexible budget and prioritize top-tier performance, investing in expensive golf balls can deliver the advanced features and technologies that cater to your game.
Personal preferences also play a role in your decision-making process. Consider whether you prioritize distance or control.
If you value maximum distance off the tee, a high-end golf ball with advanced core designs and intermediate spin may be ideal.
Conversely, if you prioritize shot shaping and greenside control, an expensive golf ball with enhanced spin characteristics can offer the performance you seek.
Many of the top brands will offer two options in their premium ball, such as Titleist having the Pro V1 and the Pro V1x versions, with the latter aiming to offer a slightly reduced spin rate for golfers who wish to keep their revolutions a little lower.
3. Test different brands
Lastly, experiment and try different golf balls. Every golfer’s swing and preferences are unique, so it’s crucial to find the ball that feels right for you.
Purchase a few sleeves of different balls within your budget and test them during practice rounds or on the course.
Pay attention to the feel, distance, control, and overall performance.
This hands-on approach will help you identify the golf ball that suits your game and provides the optimum combination of performance and value for money.
Final message
In conclusion, the choice between cheap and expensive golf balls depends on various factors, including your ability level, budget, and personal preferences.
Cheap golf balls offer affordability and serve as a suitable option for beginners or occasional golfers.
They provide decent performance while helping you develop your skills at a reasonable price.
Expensive golf balls, on the other hand, offer high-performance features, advanced technologies, and superior spin rates.
Skilled golfers who demand precise control and desire maximum distance can benefit from the performance advantages these balls offer.
Ultimately, finding the right golf ball requires a balance between performance, budget, and personal preference.
Assess your skill level, consider your price range, and think about what matters most to you on the course.
By doing so, you can make an informed decision and select the golf ball that will enhance your game and provide the optimum value for your money.
But remember, the golf ball is just one piece of the puzzle.
Practice, technique, and course management also contribute significantly to your overall performance.
So, equip yourself with the right knowledge, find a ball that suits your game, and enjoy the journey of improving your skills on the fairways and greens.
Lewis lives in the UK, with his partner and four kids. He helped rejuvenate ProjectGolfAU with one of his mates, Drew.
