Almost all new golf drivers are coming to market with a price tag of $500 or more. Several years ago, this was just $400 or more. Many golfers feel that the $500 price mark is difficult to cross. After all, this is just one golf club in the bag!
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Luckily, some great golf drivers are on the market for less than $500. We have you covered if you are looking for the best golf drivers for beginners under $500. Each offers the performance, forgiveness, and distance that all beginner golfers could benefit from.
Quick Look
Best Overall: Callaway Mavrik (View on Amazon)
Best Forgiveness: Cobra King Radspeed XB (View on Amazon)
Best Distance: TaylorMade SIM 2 Max (View on Amazon)
Callaway Mavrik
The Callaway Mavrik features Flash Face technology and a design incorporating artificial intelligence into the building process. Essentially Callaway was able to use a computer to test out all possible configurations of the Jailbreak and center of gravity technology. The result was a driver that combined impressive power and feel.
The Callaway Mavrik has a new Cyclone Aero head shape. The idea here is that this shape can travel through the air considerably faster, making it a better choice for players that can benefit from the extra club head and ball speed.
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The Mavrik features a lightweight carbon crown. In addition, it has an adjustable hosel to make it easier for players to fine-tune this driver to be what they need. Even though this is not the new Callaway Rogue ST, beginners can easily make this driver work for them and spend well less than $500.
Pros
- Impressive forgiveness and feel
- High ball speed than previous releases
- Pleasing sound when making an impact
- Highly adjustable club head
Cons
- Ball speed is not as high as the new Callaway Rogue ST
- Clubhead sits a bit open at address
Cobra King Radspeed XB
The Cobra golf drivers are some of the leaders in golf head adjustability. Having a club that allowed you to fine-tune the weight and the loft and lie of the driver certainly helped increase overall functionality and performance. The new Cobra King Radspeed XB uses Radial Weighting Technology to improve CG and get better ball flight.
As with several other releases from Cobra in the past few years, you will find a CNC Milled Infinity face that increases ball speed and decreases the likelihood of a missed shot.
Similar to what we saw with the Callway Mavrik, the Cobra King Radspeed XB also has a carbon wrap crown. The Crown allowed for a lighter overall feel and more discretionary weight. It’s also worth mentioning the Extreme Back Weight in the Cobra XB, one of the more forgiving features of any driver on this list.
Pros
- Easy to launch
- Has tons of adjustability to help transition from beginner to an experienced player
- Large sweet spot and hitting zone
- Cobra connect grip
Cons
- It can have a bit of a unique or funky look that takes time to get used to
Callaway Big Bertha B21
The Callaway Big Bertha B21 is one of our favorite golf drivers for beginners that slice the ball. This club comes with an internal draw bias that can help slow down the slice and give you more of a direct and straight shot to the hole. It’s hard to find a high launch driver for beginners that doesn’t take away distance, but the B21 was built for it.
Many beginners wonder what the fundamental differences are between something like the Big Bertha B21 or the Callaway Mavrik. Callaway offers a wide range of golf drivers for every type of player. The B21 is best suited for the player with a slightly slower swing speed looking for extra forgiveness.
The AI-designed Flash Face is the technology we expect to see Callaway continue for quite some time.
Pros
- Internal draw bias to help straighten out a slice
- A low spin from the tee
- High launch without sacrificing distance
Cons
- Not the best choice for a faster swing speed player
- Not as adjustable as other golf drivers on the market
PXG 0211
When PXG first came to the market, they said they were only going to make costly golf clubs for the players that cared greatly about the feel and precision of the equipment. However, as times have changed and the golf world has changed, PXG has started with the 0211 line that helps to bring costs down.
This is a very fairly priced golf driver with plenty of technology to help beginner golfer take their game to the next level. When you purchase this driver, you can choose a shaft flex and model that will work best for your game. Many average beginners need a regular flex shaft.
The Raised Sole Geometry help to stabilize the head of this driver and increase the overall ball speed that players get. When new to the game, stabilization at impact is a significant feature to look for in a club.
Pros
- Versatile head design
- Adjustable
- Can choose different shaft options
- Precision weighting technology
Cons
- Not as great a feeling as the other PXG line of golf clubs
- It can be hard for a beginner golfer to choose a shaft type and flex
Callaway Epic Max 2021
The Callaway Epic Max 2021 is a driver we recommend for beginners with a faster swing speed. This is a driver you can continue playing with as your game improves, and you will be investing in technology you have for quite some time.
With the Callaway Epic Max, Artificial Intelligence was used again, and golfers could notice improved stability and control at impact. Our favorite thing about the Callaway Epic Max is the 17g sliding rear weight. There is just so much adjustability here that you can make this driver whatever you need it to be.
Jailbreak Speed Frame technology was improved in the Epic Max, resulting in higher ball speed and impressive roll. In the end, this is one of the better feelings and performing drivers that Callaway has brought to the market.
Pros
- Improvement in Jailbreak technology
- High ball speed coming from the face
- IMpressive adjustability
Cons
- The slightly smaller sweet spot
- It will be a better fit for golfers with higher swing speeds
TaylorMade SIM 2 Max
The TaylorMade SIM 2 Max driver is an excellent alternative to the brand new Stealth. Unfortunately, Stealth drivers are above the $500 price range, and many beginners will not even feel the improvements in technology that this club brought to the market. The SIM 2 Max is one of the best choices for beginners seeking maximum distance.
One of the technologies that help the TaylorMade SIM 2 Max stand out is the Speed Injected Twist Face. Golfers will find that the club stays stable at impact, so more energy is transferred into the ball. The results are a long and straight shot.
The additional forgiveness built into the SIM 2 Max will help golfers that miss the ball slightly lower on the club head. Expect to be impressed with this driver; it’s nothing like a club you will get in a beginner golf set.
Pros
- SIM Inertia generator
- Speed Injected Twist Face
- Speed Pocket technology
- Forged Ring construction for better aerodynamics
Cons
- It does not feel as great as the new Stealth
Cleveland Launcher XL
The Cleveland Launcher XL can be an excellent choice for a senior beginner golfer. This club has some impressive forgiveness, a lightweight feel, and a sweet spot that will accommodate the inconsistency of beginners. We were impressed with the new updates to the Cleveland Launcher Xl that have also made it longer.
Sometimes in the past, Cleveland has fallen a bit behind regarding the total distance. However, the Launcher XL has started bringing this club back up to the point of being able to compete, by making the club just a little longer and including the Action Mass CB.
If you are worried about a slightly longer driver, an accuracy build model is also available.
Pros
- Very forgiving design
- Ultralightweight shaft
- New Rebound Frame technology
- Action Mass CB at the end of the grip
Cons
- The new slightly longer model is a bit of an adjustment for some beginners
TaylorMade M2 Driver
Most golf manufacturers will make a golf club and then retire it after about a year and a half. However, TaylorMade continues with the M2 because it needs to fill in the market. Players will get a forgiving and easy-to-hit golf club with tons of impressive ball flight and performance.
The entire M series and the SIM and Stealth are based on technology that was started back in these early M2 drivers. Take advantage of super low pricing and a club that seems to never fade when it comes to technological relevancy.
The 4-degree loft sleeve will help you set the driver high in your beginner stages. As your scores lower and you want that extra push off the tee, simply adjust the club head.
Pros
- Has proven itself among amateur golfers for years
- Speed pocket technology for more speed
- High launch and low spin
Cons
- Technology is not as advanced as some new releases on the market
Wilson D9 Driver
The Wilson D9 comes in well below the $500 price limit and is designed for incredible distance and forgiveness. This is not the most workable golf driver on the market; you can expect that forgiveness against a slice will be one of its main benefits.
One of the technologies that help the Wilson D9 stand out is the three-layer Composite Crown made with a Kevlar material. This strong yet lightweight design has helped to lower the center of gravity. With a lower CG, the ball flight is higher, and golfers are hitting shots with much more accuracy and speed.
Pros
- Great technology for a fair price
- Highly forgiving
- More ball speed than previous Wilson drivers
Cons
- Not very workable
- Sound and feel are not as impressive as others on the list
Tour Edge Hot Launch C522
The Tour Edge Hot Launch C522 is a great driver for any amateur on a budget. If you are having a hard time wrapping your head around the idea of spending anywhere near $500 on a new driver, the Tour Edge Hot Launch C522 could be a great fit for your golf game.
This club comes with plenty of forgiveness and low spin rates. Players have no trouble hitting the ball high and straight with the C522. In addition, ARC Acoustic Engineering has dramatically improved the sound that the driver makes, something we were hoping to see from Hot Launch in 2022.
Pros
- High forgiving golf driver
- 360 Face Cup Technology, similar to Callaway
- High launch from the tee
Cons
- Not the longest driver in the game
- Sweet is not as technologically advanced as we have seen in other drivers
What To Look For In The Best Golf Drivers For Beginners Under $500
We already know your price point is set at less than $500, but there are many other things to consider when choosing the best golf drivers for beginners. Here are a few things to keep in mind and be sure you consider throughout before purchasing.
Adjustability
Beginners should look for an adjustable driver whenever possible. Adjustable in the driver’s head means you may not need to replace the driver for quite some time. Even if you spend $400 on a club, it’s still quite a bit of money, and it would be nice to get seven or so years of relevant technology. With the ability to adjust loft and even weight in the head of the driver, you will save time and money.
Shaft Selection
You must consider the shaft to choose the best golf driver on the market. Beginners should take into consideration the flex of the driver, as well as the brand and the weight. A heavier shaft with a stiff flex is for the higher swing speed players.
Lightweight golf shafts with more flexibility are for the slower swing speed golfers. When it comes to custom golf shafts, most beginners are fine with the stock shaft offered by the manufacturer. It’s hard to know your exact preferences when you are choosing a shaft.
Spin Rates
For the most part, a golf driver that is low spinning will be the best choice for beginners. Since a beginner golf swing is a bit inconsistent, this can mean that golf shots end up left and right of the target, and side spin is imparted on the golf ball.
High-spinning golf shots will make big turns, and players should consider the low-spin option whenever possible.
Brand
TaylorMade, Callaway, and Cobra typically make the best golf drivers for beginners. There are also some great options from Cleveland to consider. Sometimes the Titleist and Ping drivers can be a little less forgiving, but some recent releases to the market can work well for beginners.
Although it may be tempting to choose an off-name brand to save money, remember that the technology put into these drivers may not hold up quite as long as something in a top-brand golf club.
Longevity
It makes much more sense to choose a great driver that will last you 5-7 years than to choose a mediocre club that gets you through the following year. The longevity of every driver on our list is impressive. Use a headcover, work on perfecting your golf swing and take great care where you store and keep your clubs, and you will not be searching for a golf driver again until you are a mid to low handicapper!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few commonly asked questions regarding the best golf drivers for beginners under $500.
How much should a beginner spend on a golf driver?
Beginners should spend between $250 and $500 on a golf driver. The higher the price you pay, the more sense it will make to have a custom fitting done to ensure the club will last you for more than a year or two.
What is the most forgiving driver for a beginner?
The Cobra King Radspeed XB is the most forgiving driver for a beginner and comes with an appealing price tag, especially if you purchase it on a secondary market.
Is $500 too much to spend on a golf driver?
Most golf drivers newly released to the market will be more than $500. This is the going rate for a golf club in 2022, and it will likely not change anytime soon. If you are serious about the game and want to see how far you can get with it, this is the amount of money you should spend.
Who makes the most affordable golf drivers on the market?
The most affordable golf drivers are typically produced by Wilson, Cleveland, and Tour Edge. Cobra can also be more affordable than TaylorMade and Callaway.
Conclusion
You should already be out on the range with your new driver at this point! Before investing in a driver for beginners, there are many things to consider, but it makes sense to research and chooses something that will positively impact your game. A new driver that helps you hit the ball straight and far can be a complete game changer. If you are having trouble deciding, go with the Callaway Mavrik. This club is a great choice, offered at a fair price, with plenty of technology for players to benefit from.