For over four decades, TaylorMade has been in charge of driver technology, consistently delivering equipment that sets the standard for performance in the market. A TaylorMade driver launch never goes unnoticed, commanding attention both on Tour among elite players and with its visually striking design. As a result, TaylorMade drivers are often considered among the best golf drivers available.
From the JetSpeed to the AeroBurner and Rocketballz, TaylorMade’s lineup exemplifies innovation with each model it brings to market. In 2022 and 2023, TaylorMade ushered in the Carbonwood era with the Stealth and Stealth 2 ranges, pioneering drivers featuring an all-carbon face and chassis—a groundbreaking advancement in golf technology.
In 2024, TaylorMade introduces the Qi10, prioritizing enhanced forgiveness and stability. Notably, this marks the first time the company has achieved a moment of inertia (MOI) surpassing 10,000, solidifying its position among the best TaylorMade drivers available. Our analysis delves into the Qi10 range, providing insights to help you select the model best suited to your game and skill level.
Furthermore, we encourage you to explore our comprehensive reviews via the provided links, where you can delve deeper into the latest technological advancements and learn about each driver’s performance during testing. To learn more, be sure to check out our guides on the Best Drivers for Mid Handicappers or Best Callaway Drivers as well.
Best TaylorMade Drivers
TaylorMade Qi10 Driver
TaylorMade Qi10 Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade Qi10 Driver – a fusion of the finest features from the Max and LS models.
This standard Qi10 model boasts exceptional all-around performance, offering unparalleled forgiveness that caters to many players.
Pros
New rounded head shape excels
High forgiveness at this spin rate
Appeals to a diverse range
Cons
Limited loft adjustments, no movable weights
Positioned in the middle of the Qi10 series in terms of spin and forgiveness, the Qi10 suits a wide range of players. TaylorMade’s technological focus revolves around maximizing the MOI without sacrificing ball speed.
Their approach? A redesign of the 60X Carbon Twist Face coupled with a reinforced structure to boost ball speed and enhance face durability. With a larger address footprint and a lower CG projection, the Qi10 excels in crucial areas, showing improvement over the Stealth 2 in our tests.
Visually, TaylorMade deviates from the red face seen in the Stealth series, opting for a more subdued navy hue. Moreover, the Qi10’s ultra-rounded shape instills confidence at the address, making it a visually appealing option.
TaylorMade Qi10 Max Driver
TaylorMade Qi10 Max Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade Qi10 Max Driver, the flagship product within the new Qi10 range.
Featuring a distinct head shape diverging from the traditional TaylorMade design, this driver offers unparalleled forgiveness, potentially revolutionizing the market landscape.
Pros
Impressively stable at impact
Effortless to launch
New head shape excels
Cons
Not as draw-biased as competitors
During a thorough product briefing with the TaylorMade team, it’s evident that the Qi10 Max holds a significant position within the family, so much so that the entire series was named after this model. The pursuit of achieving a 10K MOI was the primary goal for TaylorMade engineers, thus the ‘Q’ for the quest, the ‘i’ for inertia, and the ’10’ for 10k, resulting in the Qi10.
The elongated head shape, extending the profile by 8mm from front to back, enabled the CG to shift deeper and into a more MOI-friendly position. Our testing confirmed this, with the Qi10 Max exhibiting astonishing forgiveness. Even off-center strikes were remarkably improved by the driver’s high MOI.
Furthermore, ball speed remained consistent regardless of strike location on the face, with tight dispersion in distance and direction. While the spin was slightly elevated, the driver’s primary focus was to launch the ball, which it accomplished effectively. Overall, the Qi10 Max proves its worth as the flagship product of the range, delivering exceptional forgiveness and stability without compromising speed.
TaylorMade Qi10 LS Driver
TaylorMade Qi10 LS Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade Qi10 LS Driver, another standout option tailored for the discerning player.
While performance metrics remain broadly consistent with the Stealth 2 Plus, notable enhancements in aesthetics elevate the overall appeal of this driver.
Pros
Exceptionally low spin rates
Consistently delivers highball speeds
Updated, cleaner aesthetic appeal
Cons
Marginal performance gains compared to Stealth 2 Plus
The Qi10 LS inherits the sleek design featured in the standard and Max versions yet maintains a more traditional pear-shaped profile distinct from the rounded footprint of other models.
While its performance metrics closely resemble the Stealth 2, TaylorMade has refined this iteration with subtle enhancements, modestly boosting the LS model’s MOI, although not as dramatically as the Qi10 Max model.
The LS is a formidable contender in the low spin driver category, matching its significant rivals across all parameters. Despite modest improvements over its predecessor, the LS’s performance remains impressive, complemented by its refreshed aesthetic designed to appeal to a broader audience.
TaylorMade Stealth 2 Driver
TaylorMade Stealth 2 Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade Stealth 2 Driver—an understated refinement over its predecessor, cementing its status as a remarkable all-purpose driver suitable for diverse golfers.
Pros
Enhanced aesthetics for user-friendliness
Improved consistency in ball flight
Imparts a powerful feel
Cons
Limited increase in distance
Like its predecessor, the Stealth 2 boasts the 60X Carbon Twist Face, now optimized for improved energy transfer and accelerated ball speeds, featuring an advanced iteration of Inverted Cone Technology (ICT). This innovation maintains ball speed on off-center strikes while enhancing forgiveness.
The signature red and black aesthetic remains, albeit more user-friendly, particularly behind the ball. Brighter red accents on the face ensure clearer loft visibility, while the glossy black crown lends a more substantial appearance at the address.
Compared to its predecessor, the Stealth 2 represents an evolutionary rather than revolutionary advancement. While distance remains commendable, the heightened consistency in ball flight truly impresses, maintaining remarkable stability throughout testing.
TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Driver
TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Driver—a pinnacle of forgiveness among the trio of models, characterized by a subtle draw bias and added weight for effortless launch capabilities.
Pros
Effortless to launch
Exceptional forgiveness level
Rounded head enhances aesthetics
Cons
Not suitable for drawing hitters
TaylorMade introduced an HD version to their Stealth 2 lineup. Significant gains are concentrated towards the heel, rendering it highly forgiving, especially for off-center strikes low and toward the club’s inside. Adding a 30g weight, heavier than the standard model, boosts MOI, making it one of the market’s most forgiving TaylorMade drivers.
Notably, the driver features a 0.25-inch shorter shaft at 45.5 inches, a 2° upright lie as standard, and a deeper, more rounded head. These attributes promote a slight draw bias and higher flight, earning it the “HD High Draw” moniker, making it ideal for slicers. In testing, the TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD consistently yielded a higher flight than other Stealth 2 models.
Visually, the driver impresses, especially at the address. The rounded head exudes elegance, while the matte leading edge, glossy crown, and red accents on the back of the crown contribute to its sophisticated appearance.
TaylorMade Stealth 2 Plus Driver
TaylorMade Stealth 2 Plus Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade Stealth 2 Plus Driver—an exceptional all-purpose driver perfect for those seeking a compact yet approachable appearance at address, coupled with customizable weight options for precision shot shaping.
Pros
Premium aesthetics and robust feel
Impressive forgiveness level
Consistently good distance performance
Cons
Lacks the excitement of the previous generation
The Stealth 2 Plus stands as the pinnacle of TaylorMade’s Stealth 2 lineup, favored by elite golfers worldwide.
Among the trio of new models, the Stealth 2 Plus boasts the most compact address footprint, catering to consistent ball strikers. Nevertheless, akin to its counterparts, this driver excels in aesthetics, offering an appealing design.
During our course tests, we noted the exceptional feel of the new Stealth 2 Plus. Despite a slightly muted feedback compared to its predecessor, it maintains a powerful impact sensation. However, individuals favoring a livelier contact sound may find it lacking in vibrancy.
Additionally, incorporating a 15g sliding weight facilitates fine-tuning of ball flights, providing an enjoyable customization experience, although optimal settings are typically achieved through professional fitting sessions.
TaylorMade BRNR Mini Driver
TaylorMade BRNR Mini Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade BRNR Mini Driver—a compelling offering from TaylorMade featuring a reduced size, shortened shaft, and increased loft, catering specifically to confident ball strikers seeking enhanced performance.
Pros
Precise control over shots
Appealing retro-inspired aesthetics
Delivers a powerful sound and feel
Cons
Limited appeal among average golfers
Presenting a contemporary take on a classic design, the BRNR Mini Driver from TaylorMade emerges as a standout addition to the golfing arsenal. One of its defining features is its diminutive size, boasting a compact 304cc clubhead that sets it apart from conventional drivers.
Equipped with two adjustable weights in the sole, players can fine-tune spin and overall flight characteristics to suit their preferences. Furthermore, the ‘K Sole’ design enhances turf interaction for users opting to utilize this club from the fairway.
Visually, the BRNR Mini Driver captivates with its bronze and brown sole plate, reminiscent of the iconic TaylorMade Bubble Burner. Performance-wise, we found it to be a delight on the course, offering remarkable control.
During our testing, we achieved exceptional accuracy, missing just one fairway with the BRNR Mini. While it may not match the sheer distance capabilities of some leading drivers, its allure lies in its precision. This club may have a narrower appeal compared to forgiving alternatives.
Yet, it holds significant appeal for confident ball strikers and long hitters prioritizing control over sheer power, particularly those who appreciate a more compact address profile.
TaylorMade Stealth Driver
TaylorMade Stealth Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade Stealth Driver—during our testing, we observed notable improvements in ball flight consistency and distance, particularly evident on shots that were struck away from the sweet spot.
Pros
Impressive overall performance
Eye-catching design
Delivers consistent ball flights, especially in windy conditions
Cons
Less inspiring than outgoing SIM2
In recent years, TaylorMade has continually introduced innovative driver technology aimed at enhancing tee shot distance. In 2022, the company unveiled a groundbreaking carbon fiber face for its latest Stealth driver, distinguished by its striking red face.
Despite the new material, the Stealth retains a robust feel and crisp sound upon impact, a testament to TaylorMade’s engineering prowess. While slightly higher in pitch compared to its predecessor, the SIM2, the Stealth maintains an appealing sound profile during testing.
Our trials revealed a notable increase in clubhead speed, resulting in added distance over the SIM2, supported by reduced spin rates.
The standard model offers versatility among the Stealth lineup, while options like the draw-biased Stealth HD and low-spinning Stealth Plus cater to specific preferences. With its broad appeal, the standard Stealth impresses with its aesthetics, performance, and feel, marking a significant advancement in driver technology.
TaylorMade Stealth Plus Driver
TaylorMade Stealth Plus Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade Stealth Plus Driver—a striking fusion of bold aesthetics and exceptional all-around performance, setting this driver apart as a standout choice for discerning golfers.
Pros
Impressively consistent ball speeds
Sleek design appeals to better players
Boasts a premium, modern look
Cons
Low spin may not suit slower swingers
For the discerning player seeking a low-spin solution off the tee, TaylorMade presents the Stealth Plus. Marking its return after a hiatus from the SIM2 lineup, the adjustable weight situated just behind the driver’s face caters to faster swingers or those desiring a specific shot shape.
Like its counterparts, this model boasts a lightweight carbon fiber face. The 10g sliding weight allows for customized shot shaping by adjusting its position across the head. In our testing, the Stealth Plus delivered the lowest launch and spin rates among the trio while showcasing exceptional ball speed, carry, and total distance performance.
If you prioritize both aesthetics and pure distance in a driver, the Stealth Plus deserves serious consideration.
TaylorMade Stealth HD Driver
TaylorMade Stealth HD Driver
The TaylorMade Stealth HD Driver is an ideal choice for golfers grappling with a slice off the tee, thanks to its exceptional forgiveness enhanced by a draw-bias design.
Pros
Impressive overall performance
Eye-catching shelf appeal
Consistent ball flights, particularly in windy conditions
Cons
Not as confidence-inspiring as outgoing SIM2
The HD designation in the Stealth HD denotes “high draw,” indicating this driver’s inherent draw bias to facilitate a draw shape off the tee. TaylorMade strategically utilizes the carbon face to redistribute weight across the head, effectively incorporating draw bias without compromising forgiveness.
In our testing, we observed a predominant leftward ball flight, ideal for right-handed golfers grappling with a slice. Additionally, compared to the standard Stealth, the Stealth HD yielded an extra 5 yards of draw shape. While maintaining consistent loft and shaft configurations, the Stealth HD generated the highest spin among the three heads and achieved superior overall height.
At the address, it presents a slightly closed appearance, as expected. Despite producing the highest spin, the proximity of spin numbers to the other heads impressed us. Unlike many draw-biased drivers, which often exhibit significantly higher spin rates, the spin consistency across the three Stealth heads is commendable.
This suggests that TaylorMade has succeeded in crafting a driver that encourages a draw shape without compromising forgiveness or power inherent in the rest of the range.
TaylorMade Kalea Premier Women’s Driver
TaylorMade Kalea Premier Women’s Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade Kalea Premier Women’s Driver—a meticulously designed driver crafted to precision to cater to every golfer.
With its elegant styling and exceptional performance, the Kalea Premier is an eye-catching choice.
Pros
Impressive distance performance
Effortlessly easy-to-hit shots
Premium quality and fully customizable
Cons
The gloss finish on the crown may cause distraction in sunlight
TaylorMade’s aim with the new Kalea range was to deliver the finest clubs for women catering to diverse playing styles. The company conducted focus groups across four countries, engaging over 15,000 lady golfers of varied abilities and forming an advisory panel comprising female PGA professionals. The outcome is one of the finest golfer drivers tailored for women that TaylorMade has ever produced.
Standardly lofted at 12.5 degrees, it boasts a super lightweight carbon crown and sole alongside a 22-gram steel back weight to facilitate higher ball launch. Additionally, it incorporates TaylorMade’s corrective ‘Twist Face’ technology to rectify heel and toe mis-hits.
Further enhancing performance is the flexible ‘Speed Pocket’ channel behind the face, which enlarges the sweet spot, delivering increased ball speed and forgiveness on low-face strikes. Compared to its predecessor, the Kalea 3 driver, this driver is 10g lighter overall, potentially aiding slower-swinging ladies in gaining extra yards off the tee.
TaylorMade Stealth HD Women’s Driver
TaylorMade Stealth HD Women’s Driver
Introducing the TaylorMade Stealth HD Women’s Driver—an exceptional all-purpose driver boasting distance-enhancing capabilities, user-friendly design, and a powerful draw-biased ball flight, sure to instill confidence with every swing.
Pros
Offers a distance boost
Exceptionally forgiving design
Cons
Lacks feminine coloring scheme
The TaylorMade Stealth HD Women’s Driver closely resembles its male counterpart in appearance, yet its performance is equally exceptional, making it one of the premier women’s drivers available.
Boasting a 60X Carbon Twist face, composed of meticulously arranged carbon layers for optimal energy transfer and accelerated ball speeds across a significant portion of the face, it excels in performance while being 44% lighter than its forerunner.
Alongside increased distance and reduced dispersion, the Stealth HD features a deep club face profile, affording a generous hitting area and forgiveness on off-center strikes.
Based on my evaluation, it emerges as an impressive all-round driver, exuding a ‘wow’ factor. Delivering enhanced distance and user-friendly characteristics, it also showcases a strong, draw-biased ball flight, instilling confidence in virtually any female golfer who wields it.
How do We Test?
In our approach to product testing, we adhere to a meticulous procedure, drawing upon the expertise and experience of our test team. Spearheaded by Max Kuch, both seasoned in golf club testing and boasting a handicap of 5, they adeptly navigate through the array of significant product releases, offering articulate insights into the strengths and weaknesses.
For driver evaluations, we embark on a comprehensive process. Initially, we engage with manufacturers at product launches to grasp the underlying technology.
Subsequently, we transition to indoor testing, often conducted at Foresight Sports, where we meticulously assess the products using premium golf balls on a launch monitor. Our scrutiny extends outdoors to West Hill Golf Club in Surrey, renowned for its exceptional practice facilities, where we conduct thorough field tests.
Our commitment remains unwavering—to provide candid and insightful reviews. It’s imperative to underscore that no favorable review can be bought from us. Our team’s integrity lies in presenting an objective that reflects our dedication to transparency and authenticity.
How To Choose The Best TaylorMade Drivers?
If you’re contemplating acquiring a new driver, you’ve likely pondered its necessity. However, delving into the decision-making process requires careful consideration, mainly when aiming to address specific issues like a slice. Addressing these inquiries will streamline your quest and facilitate comparison among diverse models.
When navigating the market for a new driver, you must discern your primary requirements. Are you chiefly focused on maximizing distance, or do you seek assistance in hitting more fairways? While we advocate for personalized fittings with a PGA Pro, having a clear understanding of your preferences enables informed decision-making.
Moreover, factors such as feel, sound, and aesthetics warrant attention. Any compromise in these aspects could diminish overall satisfaction with the chosen driver. Hence, assessing these facets is crucial to ensure a harmonious fit that aligns with your preferences.
Frequently Ask Questions
Which TaylorMade driver offers the most forgiveness?
Among the current lineup, the TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD claims the title of the most forgiving driver. In the prior Stealth range, either the standard Stealth or HD earned this distinction.
Does a 10.5-degree driver offer more forgiveness?
The forgiveness of a 10.5-degree driver varies based on the loft being compared. Generally, higher-lofted drivers tend to be more forgiving.
TaylorMade’s top drivers often come in a 12-degree option for those seeking maximum forgiveness.
Additionally, they are fully adjustable for the loft, allowing users to fine-tune the loft as needed.
What is the meaning of SIM in a TaylorMade driver?
SIM represents ‘Shape In Motion,’ a notion aimed at enhancing aerodynamics during the swing’s crucial phase, specifically from nine to six o’clock in the downswing. This optimization targets the moment just before impact, ensuring peak speed.
TaylorMade asserts that conventional drivers often overlook this pivotal phase in the swing, prioritizing speed in a linear path rather than along the swing arc.
What is the top TaylorMade driver?
While the advancements may seem incremental annually, if you seek the ultimate TaylorMade driver, the latest iterations promise peak performance, particularly the TaylorMade Stealth 2.
Determining the ideal TaylorMade Stealth 2 model for you hinges on whether you prioritize low spin (Stealth 2 Plus), draw bias (Stealth 2 HD), or a balance of distance and forgiveness (standard Stealth 2).
What is the optimal TaylorMade driver for novices?
The draw-oriented TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD proves ideal for novice golfers battling a slice. Conversely, beginners without a slice typically fare best with the standard TaylorMade Stealth 2 driver.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing the best TaylorMade drivers depends on your specific needs and playing style. With a range of models offering unique features and technologies, TaylorMade drivers cater to golfers of all levels.
By considering factors like adjustability and forgiveness, you can find the perfect driver to enhance your performance on the course. With TaylorMade’s reputation for innovation and quality, investing in one of their drivers ensures you’re equipped with cutting-edge technology to improve your distance and accuracy off the tee.
