Best Golf Drivers for Mid Handicappers

Well, there is no doubt in the well-known fact that golf is indeed challenging to master. You not only need the skill to upgrade your game but also the right equipment. Referring to the former, golfers exhibit a range of skill levels at all stages of the game. According to the statistics, an average golf player has a handicap index between 15 and 18. This range implies the players in the category mid handicappers.

Talking about the right equipment, the driver is one of the most important clubs in a golfer’s bag, as it is essential for hitting the ball further off the tee. And for mid handicappers, finding the right driver can make a significant difference in their game. With so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to determine which golf driver will provide the best performance and value for mid handicappers. However, you have no reason to stress out, for we have got you all covered up.

In this review article, we will explore and analyze the 7 best golf drivers for mid handicappers to help golfers like you make an informed decision when choosing their next driver. We will examine factors such as design, technology, performance, and affordability to analyze each driver’s strengths and weaknesses comprehensively. Whether you are a seasoned mid handicapper or just starting out, this review article aims to assist in finding the best golf driver to improve your game and ultimately lower your scores. So, without any further ado, let’s get into it.

Best Golf Drivers for Mid Handicappers

1. TaylorMade Stealth HD Driver: – High-Performance All-Rounder

When you set your eyes on this driver, you will agree with us on its good looks. It compels you with a surety that you will be playing in style from now on. How amazing is that? Moving further, the driver’s incredible looks aren’t the only qualities that qualify it as top of our featured best golf drivers for mid handicappers. So, let’s get into what the TaylorMade Stealth HD Driver offers more.

For one, it is ultra-light and, thus, effortless to swing and control. From a technical perspective, it is because TaylorMade has introduced its advanced Carbon Twist Face instead of the standard Titanium. This eventually helps save weight to a greater extent. That said, not only for mid handicap golfers out there but also for beginners (check out the best golf drivers for beginners), this is an amazing choice for the lightweight feature alone as it makes the swing much more manageable and controlled.

Whether it was centered or not, every hit we tested managed to cover reasonably much more distance than many other drivers, and there was minimal to almost no punishment for the off-center hits. Moreover, the shots were consistently more accurate and straighter off the tee, which helped immensely to reduce the slice, which is the case with most mid handicappers. Additionally, the driver was most forgiving, making the competition tight enough for all other drivers in the heap. It deals with the mishits so much better that we felt the confidence boost with each shot. Forgiveness is a much-sought attribute in a driver from all mid handicappers’ viewpoints, as it translates to an improved game.

Now that we have extensively evaluated all the drivers’ basic requirements let’s discuss customization options. The driver has three loft settings – 9, 10.5, and 12 degrees. It also features an adjustable hosel that provides highly personalized lie/loft settings and, thus, can give the driver a draw or fade bias. We tested the driver for both draw and fade bias settings and were amazed by the results. As the name suggests, the fade bias setting was remarkable for those inclined toward hitting a fade. On the other hand, the draw bias setting was a real game changer and worked incredibly well to reduce the slice. In short, if you are a mid-handicapper struggling with the slice, it’s long overdue to say your goodbyes to it while you embrace this amazing driver.

Last but not least, the driver also delivers maximum speed, and this comes from the aerodynamic design that makes the air drag on it negligible. That is to say that it is not only confined to adding to the design aspect, but along with the inertia generator, it helps to generate aerodynamics at the swing, thus, enhancing the speed at each shot. This eventually translates to longer distances your hit can acclaim.

There is also a wide range of compatible graphite shafts to choose from. These include:

• Air Speeder 45 (default)
• Fujikura Vista Pro 45
• Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw Blue
• Aldila NVS 45
• Graphite Design Tour AD GP

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2. Cobra Radspeed XB Driver:­ – Best Value

The Cobra Radspeed XB Driver is a top-of-the-line driver with impressive features for mid handicappers. Upon first glance, the first attribute that caught our eye was the driver’s very noticeable sleek design infused with bold colors and aerodynamic shape.

The club feels lightweight yet sturdy in the hands, which can be attributed to using carbon fiber in the crown and sole design. One of the most impressive aspects of the Radspeed XB driver is its forgiveness. The driver’s weighting system, which includes a 16-gram weight in the back of the head, increases the club’s moment of inertia (MOI), resulting in more stability and forgiveness on off-center hits. We found that the Radspeed XB driver delivered impressive distance and accuracy even on off-center hits.

Another feature that stood out during testing was the adjustable loft sleeve which features up to 8 different configurations. This lets you fine-tune the driver’s loft and lie angle per your swing preferences. This was undoubtedly a plus point and made a considerable difference in each shot hit afterward.

Moving forward, the Radspeed XB driver was good even in the distance. The driver’s innovative radial weighting system creates a more efficient transfer of energy from the clubface to the ball. It resulted in higher ball speeds and longer distances. We found that all shots consistently traveled farther with the Radspeed XB driver than the other drivers.

The driver also features Cobra’s CNC-milled face, which creates a more precise and consistent face thickness, resulting in more consistent ball speeds across the face. Combined with the driver’s aerodynamic shape, this resulted in a faster clubhead speed and more efficient energy transfer to the ball.

There is also a wide range of compatible graphite shafts to choose from. These include:

• Fujikura Motore X F3
• Project X HZRDUS Smoke RDX Blue
• Project X Even Flow Riptide

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3. PXG 0211 Driver: – Best Budget

The PXG 0211 Driver is one of the best golf drivers that have the potential to deliver high performance while being extremely affordable. What else do you want a driver to offer? We tested this driver thoroughly and found several aspects that made it stand out as one of the striking drivers that can suit the needs of a mid handicapper.

The first thing that caught our attention was the stunning design of this club. The sleek and elegant look of the PXG 0211 driver is sure to catch any golfer’s eye. Moving forward, we tested it in terms of performance and found each hit to cover more distance with increased accuracy. This is because PXG features its distinguishing weighting system in the 0211, which allows you to adjust the clubhead’s weight. This helps you to configure the overall head weight and spin according to personal preferences or swing speed. It also eventually leads to a fine-tuned shot that turns out more straighter and more accurate, even for golfers who tend to slice or hook the ball.

The PXG 0211 driver features a high Moment of Inertia (MOI), providing enhanced stability and forgiveness on off-center hits. This means that even if you don’t hit the ball perfectly at the sweet spot, you can still get impressive distance and accuracy. The driver’s enhanced forgiveness makes it an excellent option for mid handicappers who aim to improve their game.

During testing, we observed that the PXG 0211 driver was competitive enough to produce higher ball speeds, lower spin rates, and increased launch angles, which led to improved distance and overall performance. This robust delivery is due to the driver’s advanced face design that maximizes ball speed across the entire face, even on mishits.

The PXG 0211 driver has three loft configurations – 9, 10.5, and 12 degrees. Furthermore, it also has adjustable hosel options that allow you to change the loft and lie angles up to 2 degrees. This gives you more control over your shots. The driver comes equipped with a graphite shaft that offers exceptional feel and control.

There is also a wide range of compatible graphite shafts to choose from. These include:

• Fujikura Air Speeder
• Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw Blue
• ProjectX Riptide CB 50
• ProjectX Cypher 40/50

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4. Cobra LTDX Max Driver: – Highly Adjustable

As a mid handicapper, looking for drivers that can offer an optimal blend of distance, forgiveness, and accuracy is essential. Well, the Cobra LTDX Max Driver offers exactly that workable combination. In a one-liner, the LTDX Max is designed to take your game to the next level.

The Cobra LTDX Max is one of the most sleek and stylish drivers ever designed. It definitely draws all the attention of fellow golfers on the course. This is what we have had to experience with the driver firsthand. So, you will definitely be standing out on the course. But let’s not draw any conclusions only based on its trendy design. That said, the Cobra LTDX Max Driver is also phenomenal in performance. It is ultra-lightweight, which has to do with the inclusive carbon fiber crown. This not only helps to save weight but is also effective in increasing the clubhead speed, which eventually results in more distance off the tee. One of the many cool features of the driver that compelled us to put it on the list was that it managed to maximize ball speed even on the mishits.

The Cobra LTDX Max Driver features a competitive forgiveness factor, mainly due to the back weight being positioned low and deep in the clubhead. This results in a high MOI (moment of inertia) and, thus, enhanced stability, making it easier to hit the ball straight and reduce the effects of mishits. We tested this driver on various mishit shots, and it managed to deliver exceptional forgiveness with minimum loss of distance.

Another standout feature of the Cobra LTDX Max Driver is the adjustable loft that offers eight different loft settings. The flexibility feature allows you to fine-tune the driver to your swing and preferences, ensuring maximum individualistic performance. The driver also has a draw-bias setting that helps reduce slices and promotes a more controlled ball flight.

Last but not least, another feature that stood out during our testing was the sound and feel of the driver. The Cobra LTDX Max Driver has a solid and satisfying sound on impact, and the feel is crisp and responsive. It is a driver that inspires confidence at address and helps you feel in control of your swing which is undoubtedly the feature that will help improve your game as a mid handicapper.

There is also a wide range of compatible graphite shafts to choose from. These include:

• PROJECT X HZRDUS Smoke iM10 60 (Regular/Stiff Flex)
• PROJECT X HZRDUS Smoke RDX Blue 60 (Stiff/ Extra Stiff Flex)
• UST Helium Nanocore 40 (Regular Flex)
• UST Helium Nanocore 50 (Lite-Senior Flex) 

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5. Callaway Rogue ST Max D Driver:­ – Extreme Forgiveness

The Rogue ST Max D Driver is one of the best golf drivers for mid handicappers that comes from the renowned brand Callaway and qualifies as one of our top picks. Well, let us talk you through many reasons why this can be the right choice.

The driver features a large clubhead which translates to enhanced stabilization. It was quite evident from the first shot we aimed. Moreover, it is also highly forgiving due to its amazingly stable clubhead design, which is indeed good news for the mid handicappers. We tried tons of shots with it and were moved by how it catered to our off-center hits. Whether it was centered or not, every hit we made managed to cover comparatively more distance. Furthermore, the dispersion for each was also exceptional. The technical aspect of this feature has to do with the driver’s high Moment of Inertia (MOI), which is again due to its clubhead design and low Center of Gravity (CG) due to its inclusion of a 20 grams Tungsten bar in the sole which further leads to enhanced stabilization for mishits.

Based on extensive observation, we know for a fact that many mid handicappers have a higher inclination to slice. While the “D” in the Rogue ST Max D literally stands for the draw bias that Callaway claims to feature, we had to confirm it in practice. So, that’s what we did, and we found it absolutely true. Almost all the mid handicappers of our testing team had the same perspective that the draw bias feature helped to reduce the slice significantly. This also meant that the shots were consistently more accurate and straighter off the tee while covering the maximum distance. Callaway’s Triaxial Carbon Crown design aspect adds further to the draw bias. The Rogue ST Max D is undoubtedly a valuable asset for mid handicapper struggling to correct the slice.

Moving further, the driver was also tremendous in speed, launch, and spin. Almost all hits made it further than regular with a high speed, optimal launch, and spin robustness. On the technical side, this is due to the integrated combination of Callaway’s breakthrough Jailbreak Technology and the AI Speed Frame, a product of ML (Machine Learning) and high-strength Titanium.

During purchase, you can select from three loft angles – 9, 10.5, and 12 degrees. Based on the experience with our mid handicappers that have slow to average swing speed, we recommend a loft angle of 10.5 or 12. Because, at this loft configuration, we drew the best results in terms of maximizing output irrespective of the swing speeds. What’s more is that irrespective of whatever loft you select at buying time, it is still adjustable up to 4 degrees in either direction. So you can adjust the loft in accordance with your swing.

There is also a wide range of compatible graphite shafts to choose from. These include:

• Mitsubishi TENSEI AV Blue 55
• Mitsubishi TENSEI AV Blue 65
• Mitsubishi TENSEI AV White 65
• Fujikura Ventus Blue 5 (Non-Velocore)
• Fujikura Ventus Blue 6 (Non-Velocore)

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6. TaylorMade SIM 2 MAX Driver: – Maximum Distance Coverage

The TaylorMade SIM 2 MAX Driver, featuring maximum forgiveness and distance coverage, is the next in our lineup of the best golf drivers for mid handicappers.

Physically, TaylorMade has reshaped the clubhead making it almost 5 percent more extensive than the normal ones in their range. This has helped to provide maximum surface area for the clubhead and, thus, enhanced the forgiveness element by boosting stabilization. The driver also features advanced Aluminum Forced Ring Construction that further helps to optimize forgiveness. We felt more confident in the game as we were able to hit more straighter and longer shots even with the mishits. In short, you don’t need to sweat as this product will boost your confidence with every shot and make you pave the way towards the single-figure handicap level.

Furthermore, the driver features the highest MOI-Moment of Inertia in its range, which translates to good news even for the off-center hits, which you are likely to be dealing with as a mid handicapper. This also meant that we were able to achieve a high probability at straighter shots while testing. Moreover, the driver also supported higher launch and optimal spin deliveries.

Regarding speed, the driver delivered a much higher speed than most because TaylorMade SIM 2 MAX Driver is equipped with two remarkable technologies essential for the driver to provide high-speed precision hits – Speed Injected Twist face that helps to apply corrective face curvature to the swing. The second one, Thru-Slot Speed Pocket, supports additional forgiveness for the low face strikes.

The driver’s feel also turned out to be phenomenal, with almost negligible vibrations produced at impact. This improvement is owed to the infusion of another technology, the Speed Bridge. Lastly, the SIM 2 MAX features an aerodynamic design that makes the clubhead physically attractive and helps boost the speed of swings by minimizing the impact of air drag on the ball.

You can choose from the following compatible graphite shafts:

• Fujikura Ventus Blue
• Kuro Kage Silver

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7. Callaway Paradym Driver: – Highly Stable

It is no surprise that the Callaway Paradym, one of the latest drivers featured by Callaway in 2023, marks a spot in this article. Well, praising it without evidence won’t do, so let’s get you through everything that makes it well-suited for you as a mid- handicap golfer.

The improved aesthetics was the first attribute we noticed in the Paradym driver. The physical design is not only contemporary but also amazingly powerful, which is the perfect reflection of its family’s tagline, “The new paradigm in performance.” The driver’s visually appealing color contrast makes it stand out in style. The driver’s feel was relatively lightweight, and that has all to do with the clubhead featuring a 100 percent carbon-infused chassis with no trace of Titanium. This not only helps to save weight but also enhances the forgiveness element.  

We tried tons of shots with the Callaway Paradym and were moved by how it catered to our off-center hits. Whether it was centered or not, every hit we made managed to cover comparatively more distance. Compared to its predecessor, Callaway Rogue ST Max, the Paradym can pull off an average of five yards longer distances. The technical aspect of this feature has to do with the driver’s high Moment of Inertia (MOI), which is again due to its clubhead design and low Center of Gravity (CG) due to its inclusion of a 15-gram sliding weight in the sole which further leads to enhanced stabilization for mishits. What’s more, is that the sliding weight is adjustable and can provide an average of 12 yards of shot shape correction.

Almost all the versatile shots we tried hitting were more accurate and straighter off the tee while covering the maximum distance. Moreover, the driver was also tremendous in speed, launch, and spin. Almost all hits made it further than usual with a high speed, optimal launch, and spin robustness while providing a neutral ball flight. On the technical side, this is due to the integrated combination of Callaway’s breakthrough Jailbreak Technology that AI powers. This also helps to increase stability for high-speed hits.

During purchase, you can select from three loft angles – 9, 10.5, and 12 degrees. Based on the experience with our mid handicappers that have slow to average swing speed, we recommend a loft angle of 10.5 or 12. This is because, at this loft configuration, we drew the best results in terms of maximizing output irrespective of the swing speeds.

There is also a wide range of compatible graphite shafts to choose from. These include:

• Aldila Ascent Pl Blue 40 Graphite
• Project X HZRDUS Gen 4 Silver Graphite
• Project X HZRDUS Gen 4 Black 60 Graphite
• Fujikura Ventus Tr Blue 6 Graphite

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Best Golf Drivers for Mid Handicappers Buying Guide

We understand that being a high handicapper can always be stressful; however, while choosing a golf driver, this optimized buying guide is all you need to refer to before deciding. That said, let’s pinpoint some key factors in this regard:

• Loft Angle: A golf driver’s loft angle directly impacts the launch and distance that a hit can achieve. As a mid handicapper, you have decent experience and skill and are likely looking for a driver to help you achieve optimal launch and distance. A loft angle of 9-10.5 degrees is recommended for mid handicappers, as this will allow you to achieve a balance between launch and spin, resulting in optimal distance and accuracy.
• Forgiveness: The higher the forgiveness of a driver, the higher the stability for off-center hits through a reduction in twisting of the clubhead in such cases. While mid handicappers are more consistent than high handicappers, they still require a certain level of forgiveness in a driver. A driver with a high Moment of Inertia (MOI) and perimeter weighting can help you achieve optimal forgiveness on off-center hits, resulting in straighter shots and more consistent distances.
• Adjustability: Mid handicappers can surely benefit from an adjustable driver, as it allows for fine-tuning of the driver to match your swing and ball flight. Drivers with adjustable weights, loft and lie angles, and center of gravity can help you achieve optimal launch and spin, resulting in more consistent distances and accuracy. This is a highly adaptable solution that is in accordance with your individualistic preferences.
• Graphite Shaft: A graphite shaft is recommended for mid handicappers, as it provides more flex and can help you achieve more clubhead speed, resulting in more distance. Additionally, graphite shafts are lighter than steel shafts, which can help you achieve more control and reduce the number of mishits.
• Light Weight Configuration: The weight of a driver can also impact your performance as a mid handicapper. A driver with a weight configuration that matches your swing can help you achieve optimal launch and distance, resulting in more consistent distances and accuracy.
• Affordability: While mid handicappers may be willing to invest more in a driver than high handicappers, finding a driver that offers optimal performance at a reasonable price point is still essential. It’s important to consider the features and benefits of a driver and find one that matches your specific needs and preferences without overspending.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Following are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) that will help you get a better understanding of what golf driver to choose as a mid handicapper:

What is the most important factor I need to consider in a golf driver as a mid handicapper?

As a mid handicapper, you should look for a driver that offers a balance of forgiveness and workability. A driver with a high MOI and low CG will provide forgiveness on off-center hits. In contrast, a driver with adjustability features can provide workability for players looking to shape their shots.

 What is the right loft configuration in golf drivers for mid handicappers?

The ideal loft configuration for a mid handicapper will depend on the player’s swing speed and launch characteristics. Mid handicappers should generally look for drivers with a loft angle between 9 and 12 degrees. However, it is essential to note that loft angle alone may not be the only factor to consider, and golfers may need to experiment to find the right loft configuration for their swing.

Is an adjustable driver worth buying if you are a mid handicapper?

An adjustable driver can be a worthwhile investment for mid handicappers as it allows them to fine-tune the driver to their individual swing and preferences. Adjustability features such as loft, lie angle, and weight distribution can help golfers optimize their ball flight and improve their game.

What is the optimal budget that I should aim for when buying a driver as a mid handicapper?

The price range of golf drivers is versatile and can vary depending on the brand, model, and features. As a mid handicapper, investing in a driver that offers a good balance of features, performance, and affordability is recommended. The optimal budget range for a mid handicapper can be between $250-$500, although more expensive models may offer advanced technology and customization options that benefit mid handicappers. Finding the right balance between budget and features is important when choosing a driver.

Conclusion:

As a final note, we have reviewed the 7 best golf drivers for mid handicappers to help you decide. Choosing the right driver is essential if you aim to improve your game. While a forgiving, affordable driver that can provide an optimized combo of speed, distance, and launch is a good choice, it will also depend on your individual preferences, budget, and skill level. However, in a concluding manner, our tops picks include:

• TaylorMade Stealth HD Driver – High-Performance All-Rounder
• Cobra Radspeed XB Driver – Best Value
• PXG 0211 Driver – Best budget