Introducing the best putters for beginners – the pivotal club in your golf bag that can make or break your game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the dreaded three-putt is a common challenge. Having a putter that inspires confidence and consistency on the greens can make a significant difference.
For beginners, choosing the right putter is essential. Forgiveness is vital when selecting a putter, as novices often struggle with hitting the ball consistently at the center of the clubface. Mallet putters, with their forgiveness for off-center hits and alignment aids, are an excellent choice for those new to the game.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best golf putters for beginners, all thoroughly evaluated by our Golf Testers experts. We’ll also provide general buying advice to help you make an informed decision. And if you want to round out your golf bag, consider our recommendations for the best golf drivers for beginners, wedges for newcomers, and golf balls tailored for those starting their golfing journey.
A Brief Overview of Best Putters For Beginners
| Putter Model | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| TaylorMade Spider GT Max Putter | Intuitive weight system, toe hang control | -Fine-tuning for CG placement -Clear alignment benefits | -Limited variations in head performance |
| Inesis High MOI Putter | Face balanced head, clear alignment system | -Stable -Good feel and balance, -Budget-friendly | -Availability might be limited |
| Cleveland Frontline Elite Rho Putter | Utilizes various technologies for forgiveness, tungsten grooved insert | -Good alignment -Soft feel for a mallet putter | -Some golfers may prefer a firmer feel |
| Wilson Staff Model TM22 Putter | Premium treatment, milling lines for alignment | -Trusted mallet design -Visual differences for alignment | -Premium pricing may not suit all budgets |
| TaylorMade TP Hydro Blast Bandon 3 Putter | Forgiving on all putt lengths, refined look | -Performs well -Solid feel, preferred by TaylorMade’s Tour players | -Forgiveness levels not as high as some others |
| Ping 2022 Mundy Putter | Well-balanced mid-sized mallet, strong alignment lines | -Good feel -Correct hand position encouraged | -Personal preference may affect choice |
| Odyssey 2-Ball Ten Putter | Forgiving and consistent, mallet design | -Improved performance -Familiar look and feel | -Requires golfer’s input for swings |
| Evnroll ER11vx Putter | Forgiveness, alignment lines, grooved Sweet Face | -Consistent roll -Good alignment -Forgiving | -Availability and pricing may vary |
| Cobra King 3D Printed Agera Putter | High forgiveness, fewer three putts | -More forgiving -Better round outcomes | -May not be as widely available |
Best Putters For Beginners
1.TaylorMade Spider GT Max Putter
TaylorMade Spider GT Max Putter
Discover the game-changing Spider GT Max putter, where precision meets innovation.
Its ingenious weight system allows for fine-tuned control, optimizing your center of gravity and toe hang for a remarkably tailored putting experience.
Elevate your game with subtle yet impactful adjustments, making every putt an opportunity for perfection.
Pros
User-friendly adjustable weights
Flexible weight customization
Superior insert feel
Cons
Tail-heavy with rear weights
In the realm of putters, the TaylorMade Spider GT Max stands out as a masterpiece of design and functionality. This model, a testament to TaylorMade’s legacy of excellence, boasts a sleek, sci-fi-inspired look that instills a deep sense of confidence with every shot.
It’s an evolution of its predecessor, the Spider GT, featuring a similar mallet design but enhanced weight distribution at the edges, significantly improving the Moment of Inertia (MOI). This design ensures a more consistent, square-faced contact with the golf ball, ideal for beginners aiming for smoother, more accurate putts.
Our hands-on experience revealed the exceptional feel of this putter, thanks to its Pure Roll 2 insert – a feature it shares with the equally remarkable Spider GTX. This insert delivers a superb putting experience, marked by responsive feedback upon impact, an awe-inspiring quality. The putter’s design includes a distinct black-and-white alignment line behind the face, aiding in consistently hitting the ball’s sweet spot.
The standout feature, however, is its innovative weighting system located in the sole. Experimenting with the adjustable weights to suit our swing was fun and effective. This system allows precise adjustments in the center of gravity and toe hang, using two 40g sliding tungsten weights along the club’s wings.
While the changes in head performance are nuanced, they contribute significantly to the consistency of your shots. With its subtle yet effective performance enhancements, the Spider GT Max aligns well with some of the most forgiving putters we’ve encountered, making it a top choice for players seeking reliability and finesse in their game.
Inesis High MOI Putter
Inesis High MOI Putter
Experience unmatched stability and precision with the Inesis High MOI Putter, a game-changer in putting technology.
Its face-balanced design and crystal-clear alignment system provide unparalleled accuracy and feel, all at an incredible value.
Elevate your game without breaking the bank!
Pros
Precise alignment system
Stable at address
Highly forgiving
Cons
Style over function grooves
The Inesis High MOI Putter is an exceptional choice for beginners seeking forgiveness and stability on the greens. Its face-balanced head ensures steady performance, while the futuristic stainless steel mallet design, complete with a sleek metal finish and a practical alignment line, enhances accuracy and visual appeal.
This putter’s larger footprint on the green is a boon for new players, offering precision at an affordable price of just $180, making it one of the most value-packed options available.
Its advanced weighting system truly sets this club apart, ingeniously distributing mass to the back and edges to boost the MOI.
This design choice creates a remarkably stable, smooth-putting experience and imposing feature. The semi-rigid TPU face of the putter significantly enhances the ball roll upon impact, providing a solid and satisfying feel. This high-quality performance, coupled with its affordability, positions the Inesis High MOI Putter as an ideal choice for beginners and a top contender for high handicappers.
For those looking to enhance their golfing arsenal further, we recommend exploring the range of top-notch golf rangefinders from Inesis and Decathlon, as featured in our best golf rangefinders guide.
Cleveland Frontline Elite Rho Putter
Cleveland Frontline Elite Rho Putter
Master your putting game with the Cleveland Frontline Elite Rho Putter, a marvel of golf technology.
It leverages advanced 2135 Technology for superior alignment and features a tungsten-grooved insert for an exceptionally soft feel.
This putter is your key to unlocking maximum forgiveness on the greens, making every putt count!
Pros
Great value technology
Easy visual alignment
Forgives off-center hits
Cons
Softer feel desired
Tends to lean back
Introducing the latest addition to Cleveland’s Frontline range, the new mallet-shaped Rho putter, a beacon of forgiveness and support for golfers seeking assistance in maintaining an open clubface at impact.
Mirroring the finest mallet putters, the Rho cleverly distributes weight to the outermost parts of its head with a winged design and dual tungsten inserts positioned uniquely close to the face. This strategic placement minimizes face rotation during impact, establishing the Rho as one of the market’s most forgiving putters.
Aesthetically, the Rho boasts a beautifully contoured sole, ensuring a comfortable and stable setup at the address, provided your hands are correctly positioned. The putter’s weight distribution does give it a tendency to lean slightly backward. Versatility is another of its strengths, offering various shaft options to cater to different putting styles – the single bend shaft suits straight-arc putters, while the slant neck is ideal for those with arced strokes.
Though it might feel somewhat weighty in hand, this characteristic can be a boon for beginners, aiding in stabilizing their stroke.
Overall, the Rho putter ingeniously integrates a wealth of technology into a moderately sized head, optimizing forgiveness and assisting golfers in consistently striking the sweet spot. This putter is a tool and a faithful ally on the green for those looking to refine their putting game.
Wilson Staff Model TM22 Putter
Wilson Staff Model TM22 Putter
Enhance your putting precision with the Wilson Staff Model TM22 Putter, a fusion of trusted design and premium craftsmanship.
Its ingenious milling lines create distinct visual alignment aids in a sleek, compact mallet design, offering style and substance to elevate your game on the greens.
Pros
Forgives on slight arcs
High-end feel, performance
Excellent grip quality
Cons
Somewhat small head size
The Wilson Staff Model TM22 Putter stands out as a top-tier mallet putter, showcasing Wilson’s exceptional craftsmanship. The putter’s design is a stroke of genius, featuring meticulously crafted milling lines for enhanced visual alignment and a sophisticated appearance. Crafted from a solid 304 stainless steel block, it presents a stunning look at address, with its fangs and unique milling patterns framing the ball perfectly against the clubface.
This putter’s discreet alignment lines enhance its visual appeal and significantly boost accuracy on the greens. Thanks to the hosel’s subtle overhang, it’s particularly beneficial for players with a slight arc in their swing. The club’s 3º lofted face, adorned with a distinct milling pattern, provides exceptional feedback, ensuring a premium feel even on off-center hits.
While the TM22’s head may appear compact at first glance, it performs with a presence more significant than its size suggests. An unmentioned yet notable feature is its premium leather pistol grip, thoughtfully contoured to fit various gripping styles seamlessly. This putter is not just a tool but a testament to Wilson’s commitment to quality, making it one of the finest offerings in their golf club lineup.
TaylorMade TP Hydro Blast Bandon 3 Putter
TaylorMade TP Hydro Blast Bandon 3 Putter
Step up your game with the TaylorMade TP Hydro Blast Bandon 3 Putter, a blend of elegance and performance.
While it may not match the Spider EX in forgiveness, it delivers consistent performance across all putt lengths and a refined appearance and solid feel.
It’s the choice of TaylorMade’s Tour players, a testament to its exceptional quality and effectiveness on the greens.
Pros
Luxurious appearance
Versatile stroke compatibility
Ideal for high handicappers
Cons
Potential sun glare issue
The TaylorMade TP Hydro Blast Bandon 3 putter offers a solid and distinctive feel upon impact, characterized by its deep grooves on the face insert. The responsive feedback it provides and its consistent roll on the golf ball makes it a valuable choice for players, especially those with high handicaps, seeking a reliable and smooth putting experience.
With its toe hang design, the Bandon 3 caters to players looking to transition from mallet to blade putters, offering forgiveness while allowing for more precise control. If you’re considering this type of putter, you may also want to explore our guide on the best blade putters.
The putter’s sandstone finish adds an exquisite touch to its appearance, giving it a raw yet elegant and premium look. However, it’s worth noting that the finish can be reflective in certain lighting conditions, so be mindful of your direction when using it.
Ping 2022 Mundy Putter
Ping 2022 Mundy Putter
The Ping Mundy putter combines exceptional balance, a comfortable feel, and precise alignment to boost your putting performance and confidently sink more putts.
Pros
Excellent feel
Compact design with forgiveness
Strong alignment lines
Cons
Smaller head size
Ping is renowned for crafting top-tier putters, with the Anser being a standout example. However, the Ping Mundy, a new addition to their putter lineup, offers exceptional forgiveness while maintaining a similar feel to their blade putters. This makes it an excellent choice for high-handicap golfers seeking improved putting performance. Its sleek black and silver color scheme and the 3D embroidered headcover add to its premium design.
The Mundy’s upright design and low camber base ensure a consistent roll on the golf ball. The Pebax face insert enhances the sound and feels upon impact, making it difficult to miss the sweet spot.
Despite its compact appearance, the clubhead carries a noticeable weight, thanks to its 304 stainless steel construction and shifted center of gravity toward the back. This design promotes consistency, making the Mundy a forgiving mallet putter. Notably, Ping incorporated a synthetic Pebax material on the clubface, featuring milled grooves that enhance the sound and feel of impact, surpassing the performance of many aluminum faces.
ODYSSEY 2-BALL TEN PUTTER
ODYSSEY 2-BALL TEN PUTTER
The Odyssey 2-Ball Ten Putters offer exceptional forgiveness and consistency, significantly enhancing your performance on the greens.
If you’re accustomed to the look and feel of a mallet putter, making the switch can lead to a noticeable improvement in your putting game.
Pros
Easy putt alignment
White Hot face insert
Highly forgiving mallet design
Cons
Triple track limited to Callaway balls
Alignment tool may be tricky
Odyssey’s 2-Ball Ten putter combines practical alignment tools with a remarkable lightweight design, ensuring easy rolling and forgiveness across the face. The renowned 2-ball alignment system greatly assists in aligning the ball correctly and achieving a square face at impact, which is particularly beneficial for golfers struggling with push or pull tendencies. Additionally, the weighting system contributes to a favorable ball roll.
As a mallet putter, it offers high forgiveness, making it an excellent choice for those seeking consistency even on mishits. The soft feel upon impact complements the overall experience. For added alignment assistance, the 2-Ball Ten is also available with Odyssey’s Triple-Track alignment, which pairs seamlessly with Callaway’s Triple-Track balls. To explore more putter options from Odyssey, check out our guide on the best Odyssey putters available.
Evnroll ER11vx Putter
Evnroll ER11vx Putter
The Evnroll ER11vx Putter provides ample forgiveness and clear alignment lines.
It features a grooved Sweet Face that ensures a consistently smooth roll, making it an enticing choice for improving your putting game.
Pros
Consistent ball speed grooves
Clear, large alignment lines
Forgiving head design
Cons
Hollow-sounding impact noise
The Evnroll ER11vx putter, an extended version of the ER11v, features a large mallet head with additional 303 stainless steel weights positioned at the rear corners on each side. This design elevates the MOI, enhancing stability and forgiveness, particularly on off-center strikes.
During our testing, this putter stood out on the green, offering an impressive level of forgiveness. Its substantial mallet head, complemented by a thick white alignment line spanning the full depth of the crown, guides your eyes to ensure accurate alignment toward your target.
As with all Evnroll putters, you have a choice of hosel options. The latest addition is a short slant hosel, providing a 15° toe hang. Coupled with the black anodized 6061 aluminum head, this putter boasts one of the highest MOIs available.
The sole features a hollow circle, contributing to the MOI by redistributing weight to the sides and as a convenient ball-pickup tool. It’s worth noting that the circular void in the sole results in a slightly hollow and higher-pitched sound upon impact, which may differ from the typical putter sound but is unlikely to deter users.
The Evnroll ER11vx putter caters to those who prefer substantial mallets with prominent alignment lines. Not only does it showcase an attractive design with high MOI capabilities, but its Sweet Face grooves also enhance consistency and accuracy in putting. Its outstanding performance earned it a well-deserved spot in our Editor’s Choice Awards for 2022.
Cobra King 3D Printed Agera Putter
Cobra King 3D Printed Agera Putter
The Cobra King 3D Printed Agera Putter offers exceptional forgiveness, reducing the chances of three putts and transforming an average round into a successful one.
Pros
Improved ball roll technology
Very high MOI putter
Excellent 3D printed clubface connection
Cons
The design may appeal to only some.
In the realm of mallet putters, the Cobra Agera deserves a mention. Its significant footprint is pivotal in its design, meticulously crafted to achieve the highest MOI possible. This achievement is partly attributed to the 3D-printed inset and strategically placed tungsten weights.
Undoubtedly, it ranks among the most forgiving putters available and owes some of this prowess to the SIK Face Technology. This innovation utilizes descending loft technology to ensure a consistent stroke through the ball—an attribute we found highly effective during our testing. Surprisingly, it maintains a lightweight profile despite producing a reasonably loud sound on the green, especially during long-distance putts.
From an aesthetic perspective, the Agera boasts a futuristic appearance, with its various components contributing to a unique and captivating design. At address, the square shape and intricate 3D Printed lattice structure may require some adjustment, but few putters on the market offer as much assistance to players as this model does.
Odyssey White Hot OG Double Wide DB Putter
Odyssey White Hot OG Double Wide DB Putter
The Odyssey White Hot OG Double Wide DB Putter offers the best of both worlds with its “Double Wide” blade design, combining forgiveness and precision for a smooth putting experience.
Pros
Large Sweet Spot
Easy Alignment
Good-Feel & Sound
Solid & Stable Off-Center
Cons
Low Shaft Lie Angle
Thin Stock Grip
The Odyssey White Hot OG Double Wide DB Putter offers a unique blend of a blade and mallet design that caught our attention. While mallet putters are often favored for their weight and forgiveness, this “Double Wide” blade concept from Odyssey is undoubtedly intriguing and easy to adapt.
As with all Odyssey putters, the feel at impact is exceptional, providing a consistent roll on the ball—even slight mishits towards the toe or heel yield favorable results. To enhance your experience, consider equipping it with a larger grip, especially in warmer conditions.
Odyssey White Hot OG 7DB Putter
Odyssey White Hot OG 7DB Putter
The Odyssey White Hot OG 7DB putter lives up to its brand’s reputation, providing an exceptional sound and feel during your strokes.
Its upright shaft angle makes it well-suited for golfers who prefer putting on a slight arc.
While the head may seem compact, it is a forgiving choice, consistently keeping your putts on target.
Pros
Remarkably stable on both center and off-center hits.
Offers a soft and solid impact sensation.
Effortless alignment with the distinctive line and forks.
Encompasses a generous sweet spot.
Features an upright shaft angle for those who put on an arc.
Cons
The standard grip is relatively slim.
The Odyssey White Hot OG 7DB putter certainly lives up to its brand’s renowned reputation. Its standout features include an exceptional sound and feel during strokes, providing golfers with a sensory experience that enhances their confidence on the greens. The putter’s upright shaft angle caters to those who prefer a slight arc in their putting stroke, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of players.
Despite its compact head, this putter proves forgiving, consistently delivering accurate putts. Overall, the Odyssey White Hot OG 7DB putter combines performance, suitability, and forgiveness, making it a strong contender for golfers seeking an effective and reliable putter on the greens.
TaylorMade Spider X HydroBlast #3 Putter
TaylorMade Spider X HydroBlast #3 Putter
Upgrade your putting game with the TaylorMade Spider X HydroBlast #3 Putter – trusted by both pros and beginners alike.
Experience solid stability, a soft feel, and an easy alignment system that helps you sink more putts.
With 17 glowing 5-star reviews, it’s the perfect addition to your golf bag for a reasonable price.
Elevate your performance on the green today!
Pros
Delivers stability and solidity on center strikes.
Maintains stability and a smooth roll with toe contact.
Offers a soft and solid feel upon impact.
Easy alignment thanks to white accent paint and a black alignment line.
Features a generous sweet spot.
Cons
Lacks stability and roll control with heel contact.
Comes with a flatter shaft angle.
The TaylorMade Spider X HydroBlast #3 Putter is a notable addition to our list of best putters for beginners and high handicappers.
While I would have preferred an option with an upright shaft angle, my experience with this putter was still positive. Having previously owned a Spider putter, I appreciated the familiar feel and performance. With its more compact head, the Spider X may sacrifice some forgiveness but remains a popular choice among professional and amateur golfers.
Cleveland Huntington Beach Soft 10.5 OS Putter.
Cleveland Huntington Beach Soft 10.5 OS Putter.
Upgrade your putting game with the Cleveland Huntington Beach Soft 10.5 OS Putter!
Its solid stability, smooth roll, and user-friendly alignment make it a perfect choice for beginners and high handicappers.
Pros
Offers a solid and stable roll with center contact.
Provides a pleasing feel and sound.
Alignment is straightforward.
Budget-friendly pricing.
Features an upright shaft angle.
Cons
Falls slightly short compared to premium competition.
Lacks the finesse and feel of pricier alternatives.
Less forgiving on off-center hits.
The Cleveland Huntington Beach Soft 10.5 OS Putter is on our list of top putters for beginners and high handicappers.
While it may not boast the same level of refinement and feel as some higher-end options, this putter still delivers a reliable performance. It performs admirably on center strikes, offering stability and a satisfying sound.
It doesn’t provide the same forgiveness as premium models on off-center hits, but it won’t severely penalize slight mishits. If your putting stroke is reasonably consistent, this putter can serve you well.
I had a positive experience using this putter and would confidently put it into play if needed. It’s certainly worth considering, especially given its budget-friendly price point.
What to consider when buying a putter?
For novice golfers, navigating the array of putters can be overwhelming. Golf technology, especially in the realm of putters, can seem complex. When choosing a putter that will aid your improvement as a beginner, there are essential factors to remember. Here, we outline five key considerations to guide your next putter purchase.
Head Design
Putters come in various head designs, such as blade, mallet, or mid-mallet, each with pros and cons. We recommend a mallet putter for beginners due to its larger size, which enhances forgiveness. This is achieved by redistributing weight to the clubhead’s extremities, stabilizing it, and increasing its Moment of Inertia (MOI).
MOI, or ‘moment of inertia,’ plays a crucial role. A higher MOI means the club head is less likely to twist through impact, resulting in a smoother, more consistent stroke. Mallet putters generally offer superior balance than blades, making them suitable for less experienced players or those seeking forgiveness. Mallet putters often feature more prominent sweet spots, benefiting players struggling with consistent ball striking.
Feel
The feel of a putter is paramount during putting. Some putters offer a firmer feel off the face, while others provide a softer touch. Weight also varies between putters, so selecting a model that feels comfortable in your hands is essential. The putter grip significantly influences your confidence, ensuring it fits well in your hands and allows you to square the putter face at impact consistently.
Consider the shaft as well; assess how much vibration it transmits, whether you prefer the sensation of the ball traveling along the shaft or a dampened feel.
Looks
Confidence when standing over the ball is crucial. It would help if you liked the appearance of your putter, as it directly impacts your confidence. With mallet putters, many classic and futuristic designs are available, so finding a model that aesthetically appeals to you is vital.
Alignment Tools
Consider the alignment tools offered by the putter. At the same time, some golfers may prefer a clean and unadorned putter; many benefit from having an alignment line on the back of the putter. This guide aids in focusing on the ball and ensuring a square strike through the shot.
Price
Price is a practical consideration. While premium designs exist, many models offer exceptional value, as demonstrated in the selections above. Beginners should be cautious of the higher-priced offerings, as they may not necessarily provide forgiveness or suit your swing style.
If you’re a novice golfer seeking additional equipment alongside your putter, explore our guides on the best golf balls for beginners, the best golf club sets for beginners, and the best golf irons for beginners.
Frequently Ask Questions
What type of putter should a beginner use?
When choosing a putter as a beginner, prioritize forgiveness and stability. With their higher MOI (Moment of Inertia) and more prominent sweet spots on the club face, Mallet putters are typically the best choice for novice players.
Are Blade Putters Suitable for Beginners?
Yes, beginners can use blade putters, but they often discover they are more challenging to wield than mallet putters. While blade putters have their merits, they are generally less forgiving and, as a result, pose a steeper learning curve, making them less ideal for novice golfers.
Why should I buy a new putter?
The putting greens often determine a golfer’s score, and three-putting can be frustrating. It’s a crucial area for saving strokes. Having the right equipment that promotes sweet, accurate putting strokes is essential. Investing in a new putter can be more advantageous than upgrading any other club.
Which Putter Offers the Simplest Alignment?
For golfers seeking an effortlessly aligned putter, your best bet often lies with a mallet-style putter featuring alignment aids such as lines or stripes. Notably, Odyssey’s 2-ball putters excel in this regard.
To further simplify your decision, consider exploring the putters featured on this page, as many offer user-friendly alignment features.
Are Spider Putters Suitable for Novices?
Yes, Spider putters can be an excellent choice for beginners in golf. To find the perfect fit, try out several models and determine which one(s) suits your preferences and gameplay style.
Conclusion
Choosing the best putters for beginners in golf. We’ve selected some of the best putters tailored for newcomers, particularly favoring Mallet putters with their high MOIs and large sweet spots. Beyond the putter type, factors like feel, alignment tools, and price should be considered.
The best putter for beginners is one that feels comfortable, builds confidence, and improves accuracy. Personal preference matters, so trying out different models is key to finding the perfect fit. Better putting can lead to fewer strokes on the green, making it a worthwhile investment. With the right putter, beginners can enjoy sinking more putts and enhancing their game.
