Of all the golf clubs, the driver has the least loft, biggest head, and longest shaft. It is designed to hit the ball as far as possible towards the tee. This is also one of the most difficult clubs to swing accurately. So, if you are new to the sport, pay attention to choosing the best golf drivers for high handicappers & beginners.
Using a golf driver can be intimidating for any novice, but do not let this get your groove off the game. From the material to the design, consider several factors as you try to narrow down the possibilities. Take note that what works for others may not necessarily work for you.
Searching for the best drivers for beginners? We got your back! Keep on reading and learn from the valuable insights we’ll be sharing in this short buying guide.
Table of Contents
Best Golf Drivers for High Handicappers & Beginners Review
Cobra Golf 2019 F9 Speedback Driver
Made by one of the most reliable brands in the market, the 2019 F9 Speedback is a notable option for the best golf driver for beginners. It is made by a reputable brand, so you can be confident of the quality and performance that it can offer.
Performance-wise, one area at which it excels is in terms of speed. The main reason for this is the aerodynamic shape of the clubface. With a streamlined design, there will be an uninterrupted airflow, and in turn, you can enjoy an exceptional speed even in less powerful swings.
The low and multi-material center of gravity is one more thing that you will love in this product. Combined with the efficiency of its aerodynamic design, it will make every spin more powerful, which is important in boosting your confidence as a beginner.
To add, this beginner driver also comes with a CNC precision-milled face. It utilizes an advanced manufacturing process, which results in the thinnest and hottest clubface that the company manufactures.
It is also worth noting that it comes with an ultra-light carbon-wrapped crown. Despite its weight, it does not compromise durability. This is lighter compared to titanium crowns.
Lastly, this driver offers several adjustment options, making it easy to personalize depending on your needs. For instance, it has eight loft settings. You can also customize the position of the center of gravity through a movable weight.
Pros:
- Adjustable center of gravity
- Ultra-light but an efficient crown
- Elliptical face pattern for a large sweet spot
Cons:
- Graphics in the crown can be distracting
Callaway Golf 2020 Rogue Driver
Even if you are new in golf, you would most probably know that Callaway is hard to match. No wonder, the Rogue 2020 is another addition to our recommendations for the best driver in golf.
Jailbreak Technology is one of the most notable features in this golf club, which is also the one responsible for its incredible speed. This technology creates an hourglass-like bar that is up to 25% lighter compared to titanium. This promotes a faster ball speed, which is what most beginners would like to see on the green. More so, it also has X-Face VFT Technology to make its speed even better.
Furthermore, it sports a triaxial carbon crown, a carbon composite material. This material has been exclusively developed by the manufacturer to redistribute the weight on the clubhead. As a result, there is an increase in forgiveness and the moment of inertia. This helps in preserving the distance of the ball even in the case of a mishit.
For versatility, you can select from a variety of premium shafts. There is also an option for different lofts and weights. So, regardless of what you find to be most comfortable in a driver, there is an option that will suit your needs, making it easy to ensure optimal performance.
Pros:
- Launches the ball at an exceptional distance
- High moment of inertia
- Several shaft options
Cons:
- No adjustment for the center of gravity
TaylorMade SIM MAX Driver, Fujikura Ventus 6 Shaft
If you are looking for the best budget driver, then stay away from this product. On the other hand, if you do not mind the splurge, then this will be worth every dollar. It is expensive, but given the features and performance, the cost is easy to justify.
A major reason why this is an expensive driver is multi-material construction. It combines some of the most premium materials available, so you can be confident that the performance will be second to none. The clubhead is made of a combination of steel, carbon, and titanium. The result is that there is a high moment of inertia and a low center of gravity, making it more forgiving.
It should also be noted that it comes with a speed-injected twist face. The face curvature is an intelligent design feature that will optimize the spin of the ball. Even if you fail to hit off the center, it can still make your shots straighter.
This driver also has inverted cone technology. It makes the sweet spot larger, which also increases the chances that you will be hitting the ball.
Another feature that differentiates it from many of its competitors is the loft sleeve. You can personalize and adjust the loft depending on what you assume is most suitable for your needs. You can adjust the loft at up to an additional of two degrees.
Pros:
- Premium construction
- Aerodynamic design
- Comes with a loft sleeve
Cons:
- Expensive
Cobra F8 Driver 460cc 2018 Right Adjustable Aldila NV 2KXV Blue 60 Graphite Regular
Do not be discouraged by the high price of this option for the most forgiving driver for high handicapper. This is an investment that you can use through the years. Best of all, it is packed with the most innovative technologies that will make it easier to master golf.
A notable feature of this golf driver is the precision-milled face. This is the company’s first CNC-milled driver face. This makes it thin and lightweight. The weight can make it initially difficult to hit, so you might need some time before you can adjust.
With E9 technology, which is a patented feature, this driver sets itself apart from many of its competitors. This innovation is responsible for creating a sweet spot zone pattern. It creates more hotspots farther from the clubface.
It is also exceptional because of dual roll technology. It provides different curvatures on the face. This is unlike traditional drivers with a constant roll radius. With this technology, the club is optimized to deliver the best in terms of spin even if you are not an aggressive hitter.
You will also love how there is an option for adjusting the center of gravity, which will help in its customization. You can position the center of the gravity on the back or heel of the clubhead, depending on the ball flight that you envision.
Pros:
- Customizable position of the center of gravity
- Helps make straighter shots
- Easy to swing
Cons:
- Does not come with a headcover
MAZEL Titanium Golf Drivers for Men, Right-Handed,460CC
Looking for the best cheap golf drivers? This is one product that should be on your radar! It may be from a brand that isn’t as popular as those mentioned above, but the quality is pretty decent. This entry-level driver has the features a beginner would need without the need to spend a fortune.
With its titanium construction, you will love how lightweight it is. The result is that you can swing faster. Nonetheless, because the weight is at its minimum, you have to be extra cautious as it can be quite difficult to control.
It is equipped with a 460cc clubhead, which is the largest size allowed. This means that there will also be a large sweet spot. With the increased contact between the clubhead and the ball, there is a lesser chance that there will be mishits.
An impressive feature that you will find in this driver is its speed channel. This is an engineered trench surrounding the face of the club. It minimizes the thickness of the face, which also lessens its overall weight. This will improve the distance at which you can launch the ball after hitting.
Lastly, many of its users were happy with how it feels when used. You will experience its explosiveness, which will add to your confidence on the green.
Pros:
- Oversized head
- Lightweight
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Durability can be an issue
TaylorMade M4 Driver
Being made by a reputable manufacturer, it is no longer surprising that this an excellent pick for golf drivers for beginners. It is positively received by many newbies because of its forgiving design.
With a twist face, it radically departs from the conventional clubface design that you can see in many of its competitors. This design feature will help take the ball farther while also helping make your shots straighter. With the curvature in the face, it optimizes the shape of the club to improve your consistency while also preventing mishits.
We also love the hammerhead slot, which is another feature that increases the forgiveness of this driver. It has reinforcements on the outer part of the head to make it more forgiving.
Meanwhile, with geocoustic technology, this driver for high handicapper can boost your confidence. With the unique sole shape, it will not only produce a sharp sound to let you know that you hit the ball, but it will also have an exceptional feel.
The weight at the back of the sole is non-movable, which means that you cannot make any adjustments as you deem fit. Even so, this is an incredible driver that will let you hit with enough force to send the ball near the hole.
If there’s one major problem with this product, however, it would be the stock shaft. Some people noted that it can be quite a struggle to grip, and the result is that you might have difficulty when it comes to control.
Pros:
- Produces a high launch
- Stylish black carbon finish
- Creates an explosive sound
Cons:
- Stock shaft can be tricky to control
Wilson Staff Golf Men’s D7 Driver
When shopping for the best driver for high handicapper, this is another option you should never miss. With its lightweight and simplified construction, it will be easy for any beginner to use. This is unlike others that will have a steep learning curve.
This driver comes with a Komposite crown. The latter is an innovative three-piece crown made of Kevlar. There is a carbon fiber inside, which neutralizes vibration. As a result, you can expect a clean and crisp sound after hitting the ball.
Weighing only 192 grams, this is preferred by many because of its lightweight construction. This will help in promoting greater speed and distance. However, as it is normal with any lightweight driver, it can be more difficult to control.
It is also well-loved by many because of its dynamic launch control, which is made possible by the internal weights, which are strategically positioned in the clubhead.
Nonetheless, while this is a great option for easy drivers to hit, there are some issues. The most notable problem is that there are no options for adjustability. This means that there is no opportunity to customize the weight or center of gravity.
Pros:
- Delivers extra distance
- Great for people who have a slow swing speed
- Powerful and solid
Cons:
- Does not offer adjustments
PGX Offset Golf Driver
Given its price, this is worth your attention if you are looking for the best cheap driver. It comes with a 460cc clubhead, which is similar to most of the products mentioned in this buying guide. This is the largest head size allowed, which also means that there is a huge sweet spot. In turn, there is a lesser likelihood that you will be missing your shots.
The clubhead is made of alloy. This is far from the materials used in the clubheads mentioned above, especially titanium. This is a cheap material. The head is also constructed in such a way that it concentrates most of the weight on the top.
Another thing worth noting about the clubhead is that it is offset. Meaning, the face is set back further. This is supposed to prevent the ball from slicing. The anti-slice technology, however, seems to be a promise that is too good to be true.
It comes with a matte black finish, making it look sophisticated. Admittedly, it does not look as stylish as its higher-end counterparts, but it has a sleek design that can help you become more confident.
While it is affordable, you will like how it is already inclusive of a headcover. This will protect the clubhead of the driver from scratches and other external elements that can speed up its wear.
Pros:
- Helps straighten your shots
- Affordable
- Comes with a headcover
Cons:
- Some might find the shaft to be short
Cleveland Golf Launcher Turbo Driver
Go longer and faster off the tee with this option for great golf drivers. Among others, an impressive feature you will find in this product is the Turbocharged Cup Face. The variable face will provide a larger impact area for maximum forgiveness. This is going to increase ball speed and maximize distance.
To add, it also has a Hi-Bore Crown. This feature allows the center of gravity to be lower by as much as 2.2mm. It also comes with an ultralight hosel. Together, they will redistribute weight to make this golf club more forgiving.
It is also worth noting that the shaft comes with a counter-balanced design. From the moment you hold the driver, this is one thing that you will notice. This will increase the moment of inertia, which will improve the power in every shot. This is one thing that most starters will appreciate since their swings will most likely lack power.
On average, you can expect a ball speed of up to 160 mph when you are using this driver. This is pretty impressive considering how other Cleveland drivers perform.
One of the issues reported by the users of this driver is that it produces a very loud sound. This can be annoying for some. Nonetheless, after a few games, this is something that you will eventually get used to.
Pros:
- Top grooves make lining up easy
- Produces straight and consistent shots
- Counter-balanced shaft
Cons:
- Creates a high-pitched sound
TaylorMade Golf M6 Women’s Driver
Searching for the best golf driver for women? Especially for high handicappers, this is one option that stands out. Not to mention, it is from one of the most trusted brands in the global market.
The clubhead is remarkable because of the speed injection technology. Tuning resin is added to the head to make it more efficient. It maximizes distance and speed, which will lessen the frustration among novices.
Twist face, meanwhile, is an innovative feature that introduces a new face curvature. This corrects the face angle, which is also a great way to prevent mishits. As it reduces sidespin, you can expect that most of your shots will be straighter as you direct the ball to the hole.
More so, there is an aerodynamic carbon sole. The sleek shape will also optimize the design of the clubhead to deliver better speed. It also strategically positions the weight of the head so that it will deliver optimal forgiveness.
Meanwhile, with Hammerhead 2.0, you can preserve the speed of the ball even in case of an off-center strike. This is another feature that will make the driver more forgiving.
If there’s one thing that is lacking, however, it would be its versatility. It would have been better if it comes with an adjustable weight, which will let you customize the clubhead depending on the position of the center of gravity that you prefer.
Pros:
- Crisp and solid feel
- Results in big distance gains
- Easy to swing
Cons:
- Does not come with adjustable weights
Callaway Golf Men’s Rogue Draw Driver
Another impressive choice for easy to hit drivers, this option from Callaway has the revolutionary jailbreak technology. This is one of the innovative features responsible for improving ball speed and distance. It is a result of repositioning the weight.
There is also X-Face VFT technology, which adds thickness to strategic areas for improving performance, even when you hit the ball off the center. This is one technology that many novices will appreciate since as a beginner, it will be difficult to ensure that you are always hitting the ball at the center.
More so, you will find internal and external weights in this driver, which will enhance its draw. This will also be effective in minimizing slices while promoting an optimal spin for the ball.
It should also be highlighted that Callaway worked with Boeing to deliver another exceptional feature in this golf club – the Speed Step technology. This redefines geometry and improves airflow. The result is that there will be a faster head speed, even if you are not aggressively swinging the club.
To add, it also has a triaxial carbon crown. This is the largest carbon composite crown that you will ever find in a driver from Callaway. The larger footprint does not only deliver better forgiveness, but it also increases the moment of inertia and improves stability.
Pros:
- Comes with an adjustable loft
- Several options for the shaft
- Helps make shots more stable
Cons:
- Mishits are difficult to identify
TaylorMade SIM MAX-D Driver, UST Mamiya Helium 5 Shaft
For those who do not mind a bit of a splurge for the best golf driver for high handicap players, this is worth considering. From its design to performance, you can be sure that this will not disappoint.
Looking at the long list of its impressive features, one that we love the most is the speed injection technology, which will optimize its performance. This will significantly improve speed and distance even without the need for a powerful swing.
Meanwhile, with twist face technology, it is an over-sized driver, which is also the reason why you can expect maximum forgiveness with its use. This will help in overcoming mishits and sending your shots straight to the hole.
To justify the steep cost, it comes with premium construction. A proof of this is the use of multiple materials, all of which are common in high-end drivers. It uses a combination of steel, titanium, and carbon to offer durability and playability, especially for newbies.
Many were also happy with the two-degree loft sleeve that comes with the driver. This means that you have the option to adjust the trajectory and angle depending on what you believe is most suitable for a specific shot.
Lastly, it comes with a draw-bias design, which is also what separates it from many options for the best driver on the market. The strategic placing of the heel bias will help in avoiding the right side of the golf course.
Pros:
- Adjustable trajectory and angle
- Multi-material construction
- Produces straighter shots
Cons:
- Grip-can be better
Srixon Z 585 Driver
Even if you are on a budget, you will have countless choices for a good driver for beginner, including this product. Despite being from a brand that isn’t as popular as most of our recommendations, this golf club is worth a shot.
One of the impressive features of this product is the Ti51AF Cup Face, which is optimized for distance and speed. It is strong, light, and fast, which are some of the most important characteristics that will make a golf driver an ideal option for those who are just starting to build their handicap.
The lightweight carbon crown of the driver is also an impressive feature. This minimizes the weight in the key areas, which will result in better swing speed. As a beginner, however, a common problem with a lightweight driver is that it can be quite a struggle to control. This is the case only in the first few games. After a while, you will get used to the weight and you can swing it without a problem.
It is also a good thing that it is quiet but creates an audible impact that is loud enough for you to know that you hit the ball but never annoying. It also has good feedback.
Pros:
- Helps straighten shots
- Lightweight but durable
- Good weight distribution
Cons:
- Minimal options for customization
TaylorMade Golf M2 Driver
When it comes to the best golf club drivers, TaylorMade is an unrivaled name. Unsurprisingly, the M2 driver makes it to our list. From its premium construction to options for customization, there are countless reasons why this is amongst our favorites.
Given its multi-material construction, the manufacturer takes pride in how it raises the bar for drivers. While there are newer variants of this golf club today, this iteration remains to be well-loved. It comes with a six-layer carbon crown, which is complemented by the titanium body. These are among the lightest materials that you can find in today’s drivers.
Additionally, the driver also features revolutionary Geocoustic technology. This is an advanced feature that improves the shape of the sole. As a result, there are external ribs, which will improve the sound and feel as soon as the head hits the ball.
It also has a speed pocket, another innovation that elevates the position of this driver compared to many of its competitors. It increases the flexibility of the clubface, which will make it more forgiving. In the same way, this will also improve the distance of the ball.
More so, it is amazing because of the options available for adjustability. You will have several options on how you can customize the driver depending on your needs. There is a 12-position loft sleeve, making it effortless to fine-tune the performance of the golf club as you deem necessary.
Pros:
- Has a slight draw bias
- Options for personalization
- Multi-material construction
Cons:
- Can be difficult to control
Callaway X HOT Driver
Interested in the best Callaway driver for high handicapper? This is one product that you won’t regret choosing. It has a reasonable price and is packed with exceptional features, making it hard to match.
Being made by a reputable manufacturer, you can expect that it has some of the most innovative features you will ever find in a golf club. It has VFT face, which is responsible for promoting excellent ball speed, even in the case of off-center shots.
More so, you will have options when it comes to the adjustment of the loft and lie. This way, you can customize the clubhead to deliver optimal performance in a variety of situations. Despite this, however, it would have been better if the manufacturer offered more options for adjustability.
Take note that this is a budget option from Callaway. Because it is cheap, you do not get a lot of options when it comes to the shaft. If you have no problem using a driver with a graphite shaft, then you will love this golf club. Graphite is known for being lightweight while offering average launch and spin.
As for the clubhead, it is made of titanium, which is an impressive material in terms of weight and durability. It has a good sound and feel, which will contribute to a positive overall experience. It is also large, which increases the contact area with the ball to lessen the chances that there will be a mishit.
Pros:
- Low-profile design for easy hitting
- Adds distance to your shots
- Adjustable loft and lie
Cons:
- Grip can be better
TaylorMade Women’s RBZ Driver, Right Hand, Ladies Flex, High Launch
Closing our list of the best golf drivers for high handicappers is one product specifically designed with the needs of women in mind.
Equipped with a 460cc titanium head, there’s no doubt that it is a good choice for the most forgiving driver for beginners. The large clubhead will increase the chances that you will be hitting the ball. With the larger sweet spot, golf games will be less frustrating. Plus, there will be no steep learning curve in using this golf club.
It also has speed pocket technology, which significantly improves swing velocity. It minimizes spins while maximizing launch. This is a patented technology that will help add speed to every shot even without being too aggressive when you swing.
With this beginner-friendly driver, you will have several choices for adjustability. This can help boost your game by providing complete control of the loft. There is an included sleeve so that you can easily change the loft angle depending on what you assume is most suitable for a specific situation.
The matrix white tie shaft is also notable. While most shafts are the same, this is a stand-out! It is responsive and stable, providing a good feel in every swing. It also feels very solid, which is indicative of its durability.
The satin black finish is also worth mentioning. This gives the drive an elegant look. More than being stylish, this is useful as it improves contrast. As a result, it will be easier to align the club to the ball.
Pros:
- Adds a good distance to your shots
- User-friendly
- Attractive satin-black finish
Cons:
- Head can be easily prone to crack
How to Choose Good Golf Drivers for High Handicappers & Beginners
Looking for a game-improvement driver can be overwhelming. With tons of brands and models available, you will have a hard time deciding. To make things easier, here is a quick rundown of some of the most important considerations.
Material
Like with other golf clubs, the material is one of the most important considerations. This is directly related to the durability, performance, and price of the golf club, among other things.
Titanium
If you want a premium driver, then this is an excellent option for you. It might be expensive, but it will be worth every dollar you will be spending. It is exceptionally lightweight, making it easy to use. It is also extremely forgiving, making it an ideal option for beginners. Especially if the head is large, titanium is great for consistency.
Stainless Steel
For a cheaper alternative to titanium, steel is one option worth considering. It is heavier, which isn’t a bad thing. This gives you better control of your swing.
Composite Alloys
For mid-range drivers, composite alloys are the best materials. They are forgiving and well-balanced, making them easy to use without going broke.
Size
The size of the clubhead is also crucial in the overall performance of the driver. As a beginner, your goal is to look for a large clubhead, which also means that there is a larger sweet spot. This will increase the surface area, minimizing the chances that you will miss the ball when it is hit.
The maximum head size for a driver is 460cc. This is the largest, and hence, this is what you should be aiming for as a beginner.
Length
The shaft is the part of the driver that you will be holding. Among others, one of the most important considerations is its length. Most of the drivers that you will find in the market are 43 to 46 inches. The maximum length of the driver that is allowed, however, is 48 inches.
If you want the ball to travel further, then you should choose a longer shaft. While this might initially seem like a good thing, it can make the driver more difficult to control. For the balance between control and distance, 45 inches can be a good choice when it comes to length.
Flex
Aside from the length, another crucial consideration when evaluating the shaft is the flex. This dictates how stiff the shaft will be, which will have an impact on the outcome of every shot.
If you are a high handicapper and beginner, we recommend choosing a driver with stiff or regular flex. If you have a really low swing speed, you might even want to consider those categorized as senior or ladies.
Loft
Out of the golf clubs that you have in a bag, the driver is the one that comes with the lowest loft. In case you do not know, loft refers to the extent at which the club slopes back. The loft of most drivers will range from 8.5 to 15 degrees. When you are evaluating the loft of the driver, keep in mind that this will be equal to the ball height.
For the pros, their drivers have a loft between 7 to 10 degrees. For beginners, on the other hand, we recommend that you choose a larger loft. This should match your swing speed to optimize your overall performance on the green.
Adjustability
In recent years, many manufacturers have been more creative in introducing new technologies in their offerings for good golf drivers. Many of them have introduced innovations to allow certain adjustments, making sure that the driver is tailor-fitted to the needs of the user.
Some golf drivers will have adjustable weights, which you will find at the sole of the clubhead. All that you need to do is to slide the attachments in different positions, and this will instantly change the weight of the driver as you desire.
You will also find drivers that are designed with an adjustable loft. You can unscrew the loft and rotate the head. You can adjust it anywhere from 9 to 14 degrees depending on the manufacturer.
Feel
The feel of the driver is one thing that you will often hear from experienced players, but it is often misunderstood by novices. This is the response that the ball will give off as it is hit by the clubface. The driver should have an exceptional feel, which will be vital in boosting your confidence.
Conclusion
Get your game face on! Invest in the best golf drivers for high handicappers & beginners today and see what it can do to make you more confident the next time you are playing!
Most beginners will surely agree that using a driver is difficult. This club is what newbies struggle with the most! So, pay attention when choosing beginner drivers, making sure that it meets your needs. This will make it easier to unleash the best version of you!