Just got fitted with a G400 max by my club pro. I was happy with my Mizuno, which he also fitted me for a couple of years ago, but with my game and handicap improvement this year (19 to 13) I felt I could get more distance. I was measured on the Titleist, the TM M4, the new Mizuno and the G400. The track man figures showed a 15-20yd improvement in distance, happy with dispersement, love the look and feel of it and took to it straight away. Feel like I’ve been using it for ages. Didn’t like the feel of the others, and there was no significant change. You’re absolutely right. Everyone should get fitted, trying out several brands, if possible, by a pro who knows your swing and requirements. PS..... Never ask for the price as it MAY influence your final choice😁
I love that James considers @5:52 some kind of terrible shot example... My old Ping G has landed on the fairway with shots where that ball mark disappears of the top corner of the toe!
Broke the shaft in my TS2- buddy on the tee box accident- grabbed the TSi 2 to replace it. Hated it. Decided to try the epic max ls for a new change, always played Titleist drivers. Couldn’t hit target. Put a new hazardous 6.5 in the broken TS2 and will not change again maybe ever! Love the straight face! Longest “accurate” driver I’ve ever played. Great vid sir!
Taylormade M1 2016 - had an M2 went for a fitting and they suggested that I change shaft from XS to S. I went to buy one and found that the whole club with an S shaft was was less than the shaft so bought the new club. Have since had the driver optimized for my swing. Lovely it goes, lovely. Son said he is going to ping for a full bag fitting in the new year, will tell him about the G400 Max as an option. Though I would probably go for the Titleist or an M3/4 as I have hit the G400 and didn't like it.
Old video I know, but this is the one that has made my mind up, after watching you review the Ping G400 Max with other drivers in your other videos. I have decided to go get fitted to a G400 Max as soon as lockdown is over. Thanks James.
TaylorMade M4. Was fitted into this driver with a rogue max 75 gram x stiff shaft. I am a tinkerer so didn't want an adjustable driver and the dispersion with this driver setup was amazing. I could gain about 10 yards with a bit lower spin, but that made my misses much worse. Rather be in the fairway than the rough.
The longest drive doesn't guarantee a better score. The only way to compare drivers would be to hit 3 shots out of the middle, 3 slightly high middle, 3 slightly low middle, 3 toe high, 3 toe low, 3 heel high & 3 heel low with each driver. This would truly give you answers re distance and forgiveness. No point in playing the hole out as further shots have absolutely nothing to do with the driver you are testing/comparing but simply your approach shot capabilities or putting abilities etc.
Currently got the G 400 Max, it’s been a an excellent driver for me all season and I don’t think I’ll be changing anytime soon but I must say the TS2 and TS3 look pretty tidy🙈👌🏻 keep up the good content jamesy boy I’ll always be tuning in mate👍🏻
I'm new to golf. My first hand me down driver lost its head embarrassingly on the 17th at my local. Therefore i needed new driver quick. Being new and unsure of how long I'll stick with golf i went looking atv second hand at nearby courses and shops. After trying several a slightly shortened cobra f7 was my most consistent and felt amazing and good distance. I've really enjoyed it but look forward to having fitted when i do a proper upgrade of my entire bag.
Pleased you did this comparison as I currently have the g400 and been thinking of changing to the new titleist.i got the ping fitted with the tour shaft stiff.i did not like the copper coloured shaft I found I got more out of the tour shaft. I know what you mean about the turbulaters but I actually found a good use for them. I tend to get close to the heal when I'm not swinging my best when I feel this I use the turbulaters to help line up the ball towards the toe as a temporary fix and it works.i might go for a fitting for the titleist if it out performs the ping then it could be an early Christmas present.
Fitted for driver 6 months ago. Options available. Ping, Callaway ,Titleist, Taylormade, Mizuno. Took the Mizuno SG180 longest drives I have ever had dispersion also acceptable. However short honeymoon, reverted back to my comfort zone a Callaway Mini 1.5. Now desperate for a new driver. Yesterday morning before playing golf viewed a CR instruction from August last year . The driver swing error was an exact replica of the perception i have of my swing fault. Quickly placed my Mizuno in the bag recommended solution is instant success.
I'm a 15 middle aged handicap golfer, trying to improve with a series of lessons. Not having had a lesson in 20 years has shown me some really bad habits I've acquired that are gradually being ironed out. This is the review I've been looking for. I found a review a couple of days ago from James Savage of National Club Folder comparing G400 Max, TS2 and TM M4, showing distance specs but not much info on dispersion. Potted driver history: Nike Sumo SQ squared. Looks funny, sounds even funnier, great dispersion in its day with a slight loss in distance. Had to stop using it as it was slowly leading me to having a perforated ear drum! Titleist 907 D2. Looks great and sounds great. Good distance on the few occasions I could middle the club. This club would have been good for a better player than me, but my strike rate inconsistency had the ball flying in all directions. TaylorMade R9. Loved this club and still have it, but it was retired when I purchased the...... TaylorMade R 15. Its my current driver and was a step up into modern tech. Its been good but not the most forgiving club for me. I went for a driver fitting thinking the Epic or Rogue was the club I wanted. However, my favourites were the G400 Max and the Titleist TS2. Both were really nice to hit and offered similar length and dispersion. I didn't want to try the TS3 as I'm not good enough to benefit from swopping weights around and didn't want an overly fussy driver again like the R15. I'm sure Shaft adjustment alone is all I'll benefit from in the short term, and am a firm believer in fixing my swing rather than accommodating it with bias adjustments in the club head and shaft. I've yet to make a purchase, but on looks and sound alone I'm totally smitten with the Titleist TS2. The Ping is a great club, but looks like the Bat Mobile from the top and sounds more like my old Nike deaf maker. What are your thoughts for an eager to improve slightly over weight and balding middle aged man with more time on his hands to play the game. Am I being seduced by looks and sound? I still need convincing that what used to be a players manufacturor like Titleist have produced a forgiving driver that a would be improving golfer like me can benefit from. Love your reviews and tests, soh and well edited videos. I know they must take up an awful lot of your time. PS Do you take the drone out on your own when filming alone? The aerial shots look great. All the best Rick.
Richard, I have always been baffled by this for a while now: " I still need convincing that what used to be a players manufacturer like Titleist" I have been using a Titleist 913D2 for a couple of years now and playoff 16.6! My driving is probably the most consistent part of my game and I regularly drive it past playing partners using M2 & one using a G400 both with lower handicaps than myself. I am loath to change from my 913 as in my opinion it still works well. I don't really agree with Titleist being classed as a better players brand, and I think its a reputation that they are struggling to get rid of, and also probably costing them sales. Its what works for you that matters, not the name on the sole of the club. Keep enjoying the golf !
@@colingraham9281 Cheers Colin. I think it used to be the case that Titleist produced clubs for the better player up until the last five or so years. My old Titleist driver is a thing of beauty to me, I just love the traditional uncluttered look. Your reply is most encouraging and I think its going to be hard for me to resist the temptations of a TS2 for much longer!
Semi fit for RBZ stage II 9.5 with stock 70g shaft. Semi fit because it was adjusted for me by store using flightscope. Purchased a couple years after the model was released to keep the cost down (club costs have shot up like crazy). Have been using it for a few years now and still getting 270ish out of it, 300 on a good hit in summer. The extra yardage from a newer/new driver isn’t worth the money right now but it is fun to hit them.
Nike VRS Covert 2.0 in matt black. Had it for 3 years now. I love it's forgiveness & don't see myself changing anytime soon. Sorting out the long irons 1st
Had my TS2 for about three weeks now, so still early days. Had a fitting here on the Algarve, just to try it out, and found the dispersion was better than my 2016 M2. Enjoying using it, looks good and forgives off centre strikes. Play off 14 but trying hard to get that down, work in progress.....
Great stuff James!...G400 SFT for me...Turns my slight out to in swing into a Straight to slight fade shot vs slight fade to slice shot when I tried the Max and also M3.
G400 LST - I don't change clubs often - I was coming from a 430 SLDR. The Ping is just so much forgiving but man the SLDR was a bomber! Great comparison James - keep up the good work.
I've been using the 2016 Taylormade M2 driver with an extra stiff shaft for a while now and always loved it but I have recently tested the Titleist TS2 with a regular shaft (which I usually can not control) and I'm am completely sold. Most forgiving, most distance driver I have ever used. Being fitted for a new one next week.
I couldn’t get on with either of these and opted for a Rogue Subzero, fitted. Finding fairways. This game it so much easier when you can put you drive long down the middle of the fairway. I wonder how much distance I’m going to lose over the next 20 years? Never seen a video on fitness and longevity in golf. I’m in my 50s. Hit my drives 260+ and recently shot 75(+3). I will always love this game so long as I’m improving. I wonder if I will love it as much as I age. What do you think? Has the thought ever occurred to you?
I am using the Titleist 909 D2. I use it because I got it as a Christmas gift in 2016 after trying out a few other drivers. I am really in need of another one but this one has done well and can still hit it 300m
I game the G400 Max and enjoy its forgiveness I was fitted but when the TS2 wasn't yet released. Not ready to change for a few years yet so I will try and make it go longer
“Britney Spears in 2000 & I’d still hit it”... 😂 love it James. Personally I’d still do that in 2018. Currently using Ping I25 8.5*. Looking to replace for ‘19 season.
Hi James, I'm still rocking the Mizuno MP650, great shape and amazing sound. Takes the left side out with its slight fade bias but can still be turned over without getting away from you. 10.5 in the winter (all carry) and 9.5 in the summer with the same orochi stiff red eye shaft. Love Mizuno products and those understated marketing, kinda fits my personality. Not sure on the blue of recent but.may well look at those new black offerings next year. MP650, such a sleeper of a driver and when set up correctly as straight and long as anything out there without going left..... All the best and great vids, Rhodri.
Currently using a callaway rogue with a synergy shaft, when I was fitted it out performed ever other driver I tested including the ts2 and m series drivers, it also lowered my spin to an average of 2000 rpm which gave me an extra 20m or 22 yards on my old c300.
62 years old-19 Hdcp G400 Max 10.5 Regular FlexAlta CB shaft lifted up to 11.5 to close the club face. Although fitted 1st time) was never offered any shaft options, since realised American Golf only good for off shelf stuff. Have since changed to a 9 lofted up to 10 easily 10+ yards extra distance....Works good for me (& yes it is loud) Next time (probably early 2019) Will get a proper fitting & TS2 will certainly be in my mind
Just got a G400 Max as owned the Stretch version of the 3 wood. Can hit the Max a long way and it gives me confidence to do so. As you said James if you hit it well who cares what it sounds like!
My current gamer is a Titleist 983k titanium. My boss gave it to me and it works. That’s about it. However, I did get fitted for the ping g400 max last month. Unfortunately I can not afford it. Love the feel and forgiveness of the g400 max. Saving my pennies 😃 also I love the content! Keep up the good work James!
Hi James, I use Ping G30. Bought it at reduced price, not fitted. I like it as it's adjustable. I hit it very well & I am pleased with it. Tbh would probably be the last club in my bag I'd change. Driver has never really been a problem club for me. I have tried the G400 max and loved it!
Taylormade R15 - Love the white look, also plays a perfect draw for me. Tough that driver prices are so high these days to be able to try other products. Keep up the great content!
Currently gaming a Ping Rapture! Picked it up 9 years ago after it was retired from its demo days. New driver in 2019 though! Will it be TS, G400, or Rogue!?
Cobra f6, I wasn't fitted but saw it reduced on a website and due to a tight budget went for it. Took quite a few swings to adjust to right loft and get the weight right but now love it!!! Went for the stiff shaft as I managed to get a free go on the trackman at the looking driving range with the pro and at the time was using a regular flex driver. Swing speed showed 106mph, if I'd had a bigger budget then I would go get fitted for probably a mizuno or even consider Titleist or wait for the release of the cobra f9.
Titleist TS3 9.5° with Tensei AV 55g Stiff and -4g CG weight. I had a Titleist pro fitting (with Trackman) on a range using ProV1 practice balls. It was great to see the full ball flight and stats with a premium ball. Gained 20 yards over my 913D3 with Bassara 55g Stiff … and saw it immediately on the course as well.
Been gaming the TS3 for a couple weeks, got fitted at a demo day and loved the look and feel of the 3 over the 2. Switched front he M3 460 and have not looked back. Did get the 3 wood also in the TS3 and really have enjoyed it also. Both have high launch and have seen a difference in distance for me 10-12 yards on driver. Did get a look at the g410 coming next year with adjustable weight int he back and it looks amazing.
Good stuff you make here! I gamed 915 D2 before, get fitted at a center for TS 2. Compared that numbers with my coach and we done a blind test with different heads and shafts. Callies and Pings. I didnt knowed what i hitted and we finished all shots best with G 400 max and stiff upgrade shaft -1 inch. Tighter dispersion in distance and sideways. Played 2 competitions in the week after with it and played my first competition rounds less than 10 over. I mean that is what counts, good distance and Fairwayfinding :) All the best from Germany
Titleist 913 D3 7.5º, playing 6.75º, Diamana Ahina White 82g S. Always played drivers too high cause my hands stay a bit behind the ball at impact, and the smaller face loft help me keep the ball lower. However, thinking of going to a TS3 fitting in the near future.
G400 LStec was playing the Titleist 917 D2. really had a lack of distance with the 917. I was fitted for the G400 LStec and I love it. It is just as forgiving if not more so and I have gained an average about 10-15 yards.
I’ve been fortunate enough to have both drivers in my locker but I’ve only used the Titleist TS2 in one practice round as we still had two comps left when I bought it so I put it away until probably this weekend as the season is over and now I can practice with it for next year, the ping is a great driver yes a little bit loud but I find it doesn’t get much distance as my old driver going into the wind seems to stall and get no or very little roll but downwind totally a different story but overall it’s very forgiving and accurate, can’t say much about the Titleist just yet as one round wouldn’t give it a realistic opinion but I can say it definitely has a lower ball flight and more rollout and a much better feel and before anyone says anything the lofts are roughly the same 8.75 on the Titleist and 9 on the ping. I’ll see what the next few weeks bring but I thought it sensible to try to get used to it during the winter months and hopefully it will stay in my bag all next season, I’m hopefully going to west lancs a week Monday with the golfmates maybe I might try the Titleist on a links course anyway got to go so doing it now✋
2009 Taylormade Burner. Just getting back into golf after several years,. I’m waiting to get my swing back in shape before getting fitted. Somewhat surprising, after my layoff I find I don’t care for the Burner driver - feels like I’m swinging a parachute at the end of the shaft.
Terry, I moved from the Amp Cell to Titleist 917... The Amp Cell was high spin for me although straight. Titleist is just as straight but longer and misses are much less penal
@@jamiebrowne5161 the point I make is about the future growth of the game we love. Recent inflation of club prices cannot be justified on production or development costs and if we are not careful we will price new players out of the game. I have seen many more high profile people in the game than I make the same point. Those of us who can afford it can make the decision to buy or not but that doesn't help the game as a whole. As an aside I would rather spend the cash at the scoring end of the bag anyway.
Terry Wright I don’t think that you can price out new players out of the game. Second hand clubs are available, cheaper brands are available. I have never seen a new player go away and buy a brand new set of titleist ap2s or taylormade etc etc. options are there. Buy something cheap starting out. I do see your point, but that what every company does nowadays, drive up the price. Look at apple. Cost to build a phone to buying it, fucking ridiculous. I suppose the rich get richer and the poor, poorer. I’m part of the poor group. Once again no disrespect, friendly debate.
R15/430. First "new/used" driver I'd bought in 20 years. Reviews were good, and I'd tried a friends before I bought it. Not fitted since it wasn't new.
James if I get the ts2 I will get the Mitsubishi tense blue stiff-flx but the ball distance will give me a little shorter than the Ping 400 by 10 yards what weight should I put in the back?
Titleist 913 d2 tour ad di 7x which I love but am going to upgrade soon. Hard choice as there's so many good clubs out there! TS3, Rogue sub zero, M3 or G400 any would be a suitable upgrade but finding it very difficult to single one out! The Rogue sub zero looks amazing behind the ball though!
Titleist 917D2 fitted in June 2018 with Evenflow blue 65g. Why didn't I wait for the TS? Well the screw fell out of the Cobra Amp Cell I'd been using for 4 years. Have upgraded fairways to TS.
Taylormade R1. I know it’s older now, but I’m not good enough or well-off enough to constantly upgrade. My buddy, who’s actually good upgraded his driver and sold me his R1. That’s what I’m using and I still can’t hit it well
TS3 due to your review and having it fitted with the hazardous smoke stiff 65gm shaft. Had the rogue but was terribly inconsistent with a number of different shaft combinations. Smother hooks all day. Nice to be reacquainted with the fairway TS3 all the way!!!
Callaway razr x black 11.5, my first driver, I needed to get in the air and reasonably long, it’s great, but after 5 years maybe a lower spin system would fit my game now
currently play a Nike Vapor Fly with Diamana LTD S+ 60X. has been my go to for over 3 years now, but just picked up a Callaway Epic SZ for the cheap with Fuji Pro Green 62S and so far the results have been great.
Taylormade R9 SuperTri. Why? I drive it well. I hit it pretty far and hit a decent amount of fairways. However I haven't tested any new drivers, I'm looking forward to testing them next year.
Got fitted and ended up with a g400 max with 65g obam isawa shaft. I also just bought a srixon z785 with a 65g drago shaft xstiff on ebay. I hit both well
M3 440 for me James. Had the Epic and 917 D3 but got rid of both. Also play an old R7 Quad which i absolutely love. M3 i play because of Looks first and foremost. It just looks how do you say, "FANTASTIC" . Next would be the adjustability. Last would be the ability of the M3 to knock down spin. I am a high spin player and the M3 takes care of that problem. keep up the great work James, i do like your content.
I was fitted at club champion for the F8 with the fujikure speeder evolution 3 shaft. 45” Spent lots of $$. Will try the titleist. I play AP3 and hybrids
Still using my Titleist D2 910. Mostly since todays drivers cost sooo much and I do not play so many rounds per year. I would love to upgrade to TS2 or TS3 after a fit. If so I guess I can reuse the shaft I have in my 910. But the price is just sick for the new Titleist drivers so I am not sure when I can buy it.
TM M4, purely cos I was absolutely hammering it on the fitting! Tried Calloway Rogue and Ping G400 max. Not a lot in them all, but preferred ball flight from M4, and the sound
TS2 71 yrs old was swinging 85-86 mph picked up a good 2 mph with TS2 forgiving and long Tensai 55 gram regular shaft picked up at least 10-12 yds over my epic with Aldila rogue max shaft
Recently sold my Callaway Epic because of the numbers on trackman I got from testing the TS3 and testing a demo TS3 on course. Heard yesterday at my golfshop that I have to wait till end of the month😏. Maybe because I ordered the TS 3 with a 45” shaft instead of the now stock lenght of 45.5”... better dispersion and more center hits with a shorter shaft. Did’t like the looks of the TS2 and my numbers on trackman were better with the TS3.
I have an old school ping eye 2 and a Taylor Superfast. I'm not liking the accuracy of the taylor. I want a modern driver that has more distance but keeps me in the fairway.
I hit the ping g 30 now I was fitted I'm going for a new fitting this year both of these plus the new epic and cobra are on the list to try,I like my g 30 but feel it's time for a up grade we will see
I'm actually using BOTH of the drivers in this video at the moment. I think they're both excellent clubs. The straighter face of the TS2 was what piqued my interest to try it.
Currently gaming the Titliest TS2. Had a great experience with the fitting from the Rep. Love Titleist drivers but Wow the new TS drivers are fantastic 👍
TS2 for me , sounds good, looks good and hits long and forgiving across the face ,had a good round of golf with it yestaday and when you hit some good tee shots you feel much more confident with the rest of your game ,playing at Woodhall Spa you cant afford to blow it it all over the course .Great video again James, and nice to see TS2 getting a bit of screen time over the TS3 for a change .
I was fitted for the PING G400 MAX in July and just love it's forgiveness and length.
Just got fitted with a G400 max by my club pro. I was happy with my Mizuno, which he also fitted me for a couple of years ago, but with my game and handicap improvement this year (19 to 13) I felt I could get more distance. I was measured on the Titleist, the TM M4, the new Mizuno and the G400. The track man figures showed a 15-20yd improvement in distance, happy with dispersement, love the look and feel of it and took to it straight away. Feel like I’ve been using it for ages.
Didn’t like the feel of the others, and there was no significant change. You’re absolutely right. Everyone should get fitted, trying out several brands, if possible, by a pro who knows your swing and requirements.
PS..... Never ask for the price as it MAY influence your final choice😁
I love that James considers @5:52 some kind of terrible shot example... My old Ping G has landed on the fairway with shots where that ball mark disappears of the top corner of the toe!
Broke the shaft in my TS2- buddy on the tee box accident- grabbed the TSi 2 to replace it. Hated it. Decided to try the epic max ls for a new change, always played Titleist drivers. Couldn’t hit target. Put a new hazardous 6.5 in the broken TS2 and will not change again maybe ever! Love the straight face! Longest “accurate” driver I’ve ever played. Great vid sir!
Taylormade M1 2016 - had an M2 went for a fitting and they suggested that I change shaft from XS to S. I went to buy one and found that the whole club with an S shaft was was less than the shaft so bought the new club. Have since had the driver optimized for my swing. Lovely it goes, lovely. Son said he is going to ping for a full bag fitting in the new year, will tell him about the G400 Max as an option. Though I would probably go for the Titleist or an M3/4 as I have hit the G400 and didn't like it.
Old video I know, but this is the one that has made my mind up, after watching you review the Ping G400 Max with other drivers in your other videos.
I have decided to go get fitted to a G400 Max as soon as lockdown is over.
Thanks James.
I don’t know if you will see this comment but I really really love both of these drivers and really really appreciate this video!
Srixon Z785. Love the feel, sound and forgiveness. It’s a bomber too.
TaylorMade M4. Was fitted into this driver with a rogue max 75 gram x stiff shaft. I am a tinkerer so didn't want an adjustable driver and the dispersion with this driver setup was amazing. I could gain about 10 yards with a bit lower spin, but that made my misses much worse. Rather be in the fairway than the rough.
The longest drive doesn't guarantee a better score.
The only way to compare drivers would be to hit 3 shots out of the middle, 3 slightly high middle, 3 slightly low middle, 3 toe high, 3 toe low, 3 heel high & 3 heel low with each driver.
This would truly give you answers re distance and forgiveness.
No point in playing the hole out as further shots have absolutely nothing to do with the driver you are testing/comparing but simply your approach shot capabilities or putting abilities etc.
Ping G400....distance and accuracy...best I have own...And I have owned a LOT...
Currently got the G 400 Max, it’s been a an excellent driver for me all season and I don’t think I’ll be changing anytime soon but I must say the TS2 and TS3 look pretty tidy🙈👌🏻 keep up the good content jamesy boy I’ll always be tuning in mate👍🏻
I'm new to golf. My first hand me down driver lost its head embarrassingly on the 17th at my local. Therefore i needed new driver quick. Being new and unsure of how long I'll stick with golf i went looking atv second hand at nearby courses and shops. After trying several a slightly shortened cobra f7 was my most consistent and felt amazing and good distance. I've really enjoyed it but look forward to having fitted when i do a proper upgrade of my entire bag.
One of the best reviews I've seen of late. Good work there.
Pleased you did this comparison as I currently have the g400 and been thinking of changing to the new titleist.i got the ping fitted with the tour shaft stiff.i did not like the copper coloured shaft I found I got more out of the tour shaft. I know what you mean about the turbulaters but I actually found a good use for them. I tend to get close to the heal when I'm not swinging my best when I feel this I use the turbulaters to help line up the ball towards the toe as a temporary fix and it works.i might go for a fitting for the titleist if it out performs the ping then it could be an early Christmas present.
Cleveland launcher 460 circa 2006, I got it for $35 on Ebay. I hit it well also and it looks good!
Fitted for driver 6 months ago. Options available. Ping, Callaway ,Titleist, Taylormade, Mizuno. Took the Mizuno SG180 longest drives I have ever had dispersion also acceptable. However short honeymoon, reverted back to my comfort zone a Callaway Mini 1.5. Now desperate for a new driver. Yesterday morning before playing golf viewed a CR instruction from August last year . The driver swing error was an exact replica of the perception i have of my swing fault. Quickly placed my Mizuno in the bag recommended solution is instant success.
I'm a 15 middle aged handicap golfer, trying to improve with a series of lessons. Not having had a lesson in 20 years has shown me some really bad habits I've acquired that are gradually being ironed out.
This is the review I've been looking for. I found a review a couple of days ago from James Savage of National Club Folder comparing G400 Max, TS2 and TM M4, showing distance specs but not much info on dispersion.
Potted driver history:
Nike Sumo SQ squared. Looks funny, sounds even funnier, great dispersion in its day with a slight loss in distance. Had to stop using it as it was slowly leading me to having a perforated ear drum!
Titleist 907 D2. Looks great and sounds great. Good distance on the few occasions I could middle the club. This club would have been good for a better player than me, but my strike rate inconsistency had the ball flying in all directions.
TaylorMade R9. Loved this club and still have it, but it was retired when I purchased the......
TaylorMade R 15. Its my current driver and was a step up into modern tech. Its been good but not the most forgiving club for me.
I went for a driver fitting thinking the Epic or Rogue was the club I wanted. However, my favourites were the G400 Max and the Titleist TS2. Both were really nice to hit and offered similar length and dispersion. I didn't want to try the TS3 as I'm not good enough to benefit from swopping weights around and didn't want an overly fussy driver again like the R15. I'm sure Shaft adjustment alone is all I'll benefit from in the short term, and am a firm believer in fixing my swing rather than accommodating it with bias adjustments in the club head and shaft.
I've yet to make a purchase, but on looks and sound alone I'm totally smitten with the Titleist TS2. The Ping is a great club, but looks like the Bat Mobile from the top and sounds more like my old Nike deaf maker.
What are your thoughts for an eager to improve slightly over weight and balding middle aged man with more time on his hands to play the game. Am I being seduced by looks and sound? I still need convincing that what used to be a players manufacturor like Titleist have produced a forgiving driver that a would be improving golfer like me can benefit from.
Love your reviews and tests, soh and well edited videos. I know they must take up an awful lot of your time.
PS Do you take the drone out on your own when filming alone? The aerial shots look great.
All the best
Rick.
Richard, I have always been baffled by this for a while now: " I still need convincing that what used to be a players manufacturer like Titleist" I have been using a Titleist 913D2 for a couple of years now and playoff 16.6! My driving is probably the most consistent part of my game and I regularly drive it past playing partners using M2 & one using a G400 both with lower handicaps than myself. I am loath to change from my 913 as in my opinion it still works well. I don't really agree with Titleist being classed as a better players brand, and I think its a reputation that they are struggling to get rid of, and also probably costing them sales. Its what works for you that matters, not the name on the sole of the club. Keep enjoying the golf !
@@colingraham9281
Cheers Colin. I think it used to be the case that Titleist produced clubs for the better player up until the last five or so years. My old Titleist driver is a thing of beauty to me, I just love the traditional uncluttered look. Your reply is most encouraging and I think its going to be hard for me to resist the temptations of a TS2 for much longer!
Semi fit for RBZ stage II 9.5 with stock 70g shaft. Semi fit because it was adjusted for me by store using flightscope. Purchased a couple years after the model was released to keep the cost down (club costs have shot up like crazy). Have been using it for a few years now and still getting 270ish out of it, 300 on a good hit in summer. The extra yardage from a newer/new driver isn’t worth the money right now but it is fun to hit them.
Nike VRS Covert 2.0 in matt black. Had it for 3 years now. I love it's forgiveness & don't see myself changing anytime soon. Sorting out the long irons 1st
Had my TS2 for about three weeks now, so still early days. Had a fitting here on the Algarve, just to try it out, and found the dispersion was better than my 2016 M2. Enjoying using it, looks good and forgives off centre strikes. Play off 14 but trying hard to get that down, work in progress.....
Looked damp misty and cold out there bound to have an effect on the performance today, wonder if the results would be the same in summer
Was fitted for a PING G 400 SFT absolutely great for me. with a few adjustments and this driver everything goes left with no problem I just LOVE IT
Really enjoyed the video James. It was not only fun it was very informative. Love the on course videos.
Great stuff James!...G400 SFT for me...Turns my slight out to in swing into a Straight to slight fade shot vs slight fade to slice shot when I tried the Max and also M3.
I bought both TS3 and a G400 Max - the TS3 is in the bag at the moment - seriously long and good dispersion too
G400 LST - I don't change clubs often - I was coming from a 430 SLDR. The Ping is just so much forgiving but man the SLDR was a bomber! Great comparison James - keep up the good work.
I've been using the 2016 Taylormade M2 driver with an extra stiff shaft for a while now and always loved it but I have recently tested the Titleist TS2 with a regular shaft (which I usually can not control) and I'm am completely sold. Most forgiving, most distance driver I have ever used. Being fitted for a new one next week.
Fitted for the G400 MAX, hitting it well - happy!
Played a Ping G10 for years and loved it, changed to M1 2017 model last year, but new driver never seemed to go quite as well as the demo I tested!
I couldn’t get on with either of these and opted for a Rogue Subzero, fitted. Finding fairways.
This game it so much easier when you can put you drive long down the middle of the fairway.
I wonder how much distance I’m going to lose over the next 20 years?
Never seen a video on fitness and longevity in golf.
I’m in my 50s.
Hit my drives 260+ and recently shot 75(+3). I will always love this game so long as I’m improving. I wonder if I will love it as much as I age.
What do you think?
Has the thought ever occurred to you?
I am using the Titleist 909 D2. I use it because I got it as a Christmas gift in 2016 after trying out a few other drivers. I am really in need of another one but this one has done well and can still hit it 300m
I game the G400 Max and enjoy its forgiveness I was fitted but when the TS2 wasn't yet released. Not ready to change for a few years yet so I will try and make it go longer
Fitted for the Taylormade M4. To my eye it is a lovely looking club. Always helps your practice because you just want to go and hit it.
“Britney Spears in 2000 & I’d still hit it”... 😂 love it James. Personally I’d still do that in 2018. Currently using Ping I25 8.5*. Looking to replace for ‘19 season.
Hi James, I'm still rocking the Mizuno MP650, great shape and amazing sound. Takes the left side out with its slight fade bias but can still be turned over without getting away from you. 10.5 in the winter (all carry) and 9.5 in the summer with the same orochi stiff red eye shaft. Love Mizuno products and those understated marketing, kinda fits my personality. Not sure on the blue of recent but.may well look at those new black offerings next year. MP650, such a sleeper of a driver and when set up correctly as straight and long as anything out there without going left..... All the best and great vids, Rhodri.
Using the 400 max since February. Lovely flight and confidence inspiring. Love it.
Currently using a callaway rogue with a synergy shaft, when I was fitted it out performed ever other driver I tested including the ts2 and m series drivers, it also lowered my spin to an average of 2000 rpm which gave me an extra 20m or 22 yards on my old c300.
Hi James! Those mats are spread around the course or do you take your own? Tks!
62 years old-19 Hdcp
G400 Max 10.5 Regular FlexAlta CB shaft lifted up to 11.5 to close the club face. Although fitted 1st time) was never offered any shaft options, since realised American Golf only good for off shelf stuff. Have since changed to a 9 lofted up to 10 easily 10+ yards extra distance....Works good for me (& yes it is loud)
Next time (probably early 2019) Will get a proper fitting & TS2 will certainly be in my mind
Just got a G400 Max as owned the Stretch version of the 3 wood. Can hit the Max a long way and it gives me confidence to do so. As you said James if you hit it well who cares what it sounds like!
It does show that there are very fine margins between top branded drivers, the important aspect is personal preference & getting properly fitted.
My current gamer is a Titleist 983k titanium. My boss gave it to me and it works. That’s about it. However, I did get fitted for the ping g400 max last month. Unfortunately I can not afford it. Love the feel and forgiveness of the g400 max. Saving my pennies 😃 also I love the content! Keep up the good work James!
Hi James, I use Ping G30. Bought it at reduced price, not fitted. I like it as it's adjustable. I hit it very well & I am pleased with it.
Tbh would probably be the last club in my bag I'd change. Driver has never really been a problem club for me.
I have tried the G400 max and loved it!
I've still got a G30 which was fitted for but I do love the matt finish. Not overly keen on the sound though.
Taylormade R15 - Love the white look, also plays a perfect draw for me. Tough that driver prices are so high these days to be able to try other products. Keep up the great content!
How are you liking that Fetch?? I received mine last Friday, but haven’t had the opportunity to take it out yet..
I'm presently is using a Ping G5 with a basara reg shaft I was fitted for it and I'm happy with it
Playing titleist 917 D2 first fitted driver 6 months ago. Loving it. Tried the ping driver but didn’t like looks or feel. Distance was ok
Currently gaming a Ping Rapture! Picked it up 9 years ago after it was retired from its demo days. New driver in 2019 though! Will it be TS, G400, or Rogue!?
Cobra f6, I wasn't fitted but saw it reduced on a website and due to a tight budget went for it. Took quite a few swings to adjust to right loft and get the weight right but now love it!!! Went for the stiff shaft as I managed to get a free go on the trackman at the looking driving range with the pro and at the time was using a regular flex driver. Swing speed showed 106mph, if I'd had a bigger budget then I would go get fitted for probably a mizuno or even consider Titleist or wait for the release of the cobra f9.
This is the video I've been waiting for!!!!! Good vid mate!!!!!
Titleist TS3 9.5° with Tensei AV 55g Stiff and -4g CG weight. I had a Titleist pro fitting (with Trackman) on a range using ProV1 practice balls. It was great to see the full ball flight and stats with a premium ball. Gained 20 yards over my 913D3 with Bassara 55g Stiff … and saw it immediately on the course as well.
Been gaming the TS3 for a couple weeks, got fitted at a demo day and loved the look and feel of the 3 over the 2. Switched front he M3 460 and have not looked back. Did get the 3 wood also in the TS3 and really have enjoyed it also. Both have high launch and have seen a difference in distance for me 10-12 yards on driver. Did get a look at the g410 coming next year with adjustable weight int he back and it looks amazing.
Good stuff you make here! I gamed 915 D2 before, get fitted at a center for TS 2. Compared that numbers with my coach and we done a blind test with different heads and shafts. Callies and Pings. I didnt knowed what i hitted and we finished all shots best with G 400 max and stiff upgrade shaft -1 inch. Tighter dispersion in distance and sideways. Played 2 competitions in the week after with it and played my first competition rounds less than 10 over. I mean that is what counts, good distance and Fairwayfinding :) All the best from Germany
Titleist 913 D3 7.5º, playing 6.75º, Diamana Ahina White 82g S. Always played drivers too high cause my hands stay a bit behind the ball at impact, and the smaller face loft help me keep the ball lower. However, thinking of going to a TS3 fitting in the near future.
G400 LStec was playing the Titleist 917 D2. really had a lack of distance with the 917. I was fitted for the G400 LStec and I love it. It is just as forgiving if not more so and I have gained an average about 10-15 yards.
I’ve been fortunate enough to have both drivers in my locker but I’ve only used the Titleist TS2 in one practice round as we still had two comps left when I bought it so I put it away until probably this weekend as the season is over and now I can practice with it for next year, the ping is a great driver yes a little bit loud but I find it doesn’t get much distance as my old driver going into the wind seems to stall and get no or very little roll but downwind totally a different story but overall it’s very forgiving and accurate, can’t say much about the Titleist just yet as one round wouldn’t give it a realistic opinion but I can say it definitely has a lower ball flight and more rollout and a much better feel and before anyone says anything the lofts are roughly the same 8.75 on the Titleist and 9 on the ping. I’ll see what the next few weeks bring but I thought it sensible to try to get used to it during the winter months and hopefully it will stay in my bag all next season, I’m hopefully going to west lancs a week Monday with the golfmates maybe I might try the Titleist on a links course anyway got to go so doing it now✋
2009 Taylormade Burner. Just getting back into golf after several years,. I’m waiting to get my swing back in shape before getting fitted.
Somewhat surprising, after my layoff I find I don’t care for the Burner driver - feels like I’m swinging a parachute at the end of the shaft.
Cobra Amp Cell. New drivers are far too expensive which does little to promote golf I think.
Cobra amp cell is a great club Terry. I had one a couple of years ago and not sure I did the right thing getting rid of it.
Terry, I moved from the Amp Cell to Titleist 917... The Amp Cell was high spin for me although straight. Titleist is just as straight but longer and misses are much less penal
Terry stop being a tight basterd, no disrepect. Yes Drivers are expensive but if you love the game you'll dish the cash.
@@jamiebrowne5161 the point I make is about the future growth of the game we love. Recent inflation of club prices cannot be justified on production or development costs and if we are not careful we will price new players out of the game. I have seen many more high profile people in the game than I make the same point. Those of us who can afford it can make the decision to buy or not but that doesn't help the game as a whole. As an aside I would rather spend the cash at the scoring end of the bag anyway.
Terry Wright I don’t think that you can price out new players out of the game. Second hand clubs are available, cheaper brands are available. I have never seen a new player go away and buy a brand new set of titleist ap2s or taylormade etc etc. options are there. Buy something cheap starting out. I do see your point, but that what every company does nowadays, drive up the price. Look at apple. Cost to build a phone to buying it, fucking ridiculous. I suppose the rich get richer and the poor, poorer. I’m part of the poor group. Once again no disrespect, friendly debate.
R15/430. First "new/used" driver I'd bought in 20 years. Reviews were good, and I'd tried a friends before I bought it. Not fitted since it wasn't new.
James if I get the ts2 I will get the Mitsubishi tense blue stiff-flx but the ball distance will give me a little shorter than the Ping 400 by 10 yards what weight should I put in the back?
Titleist 913 d2 tour ad di 7x which I love but am going to upgrade soon. Hard choice as there's so many good clubs out there! TS3, Rogue sub zero, M3 or G400 any would be a suitable upgrade but finding it very difficult to single one out! The Rogue sub zero looks amazing behind the ball though!
Titleist 917D2 fitted in June 2018 with Evenflow blue 65g. Why didn't I wait for the TS? Well the screw fell out of the Cobra Amp Cell I'd been using for 4 years. Have upgraded fairways to TS.
2 yrs on G400 sft. I love my club and do not see any reason to ever change😁
I went for the g400lst, after fitting. Got it at 44.5 shaft length, I’m so much more accurate and have lost no distance.
Taylormade R1. I know it’s older now, but I’m not good enough or well-off enough to constantly upgrade. My buddy, who’s actually good upgraded his driver and sold me his R1. That’s what I’m using and I still can’t hit it well
I’ve tested all the new drivers this year but nothing beats my Ping Rapture! Plus I’d never pay these prices they charge for a new driver these days
TS3 due to your review and having it fitted with the hazardous smoke stiff 65gm shaft. Had the rogue but was terribly inconsistent with a number of different shaft combinations. Smother hooks all day. Nice to be reacquainted with the fairway TS3 all the way!!!
Fitted G400 for me tried various drivers (TS not out at the time ) moved from a TM 2016 M2 love the Pings forgiveness and distance
Callaway razr x black 11.5, my first driver, I needed to get in the air and reasonably long, it’s great, but after 5 years maybe a lower spin system would fit my game now
Still using the D2 915 fitted for it and irons (MBs) back when it came out.
currently play a Nike Vapor Fly with Diamana LTD S+ 60X. has been my go to for over 3 years now, but just picked up a Callaway Epic SZ for the cheap with Fuji Pro Green 62S and so far the results have been great.
G400 max for me James. Aldila Mamba s shaft. Just loving it. Another brilliant video.
Hi James I'm using the nike vapor flex but I do like the look of that new cobra fastback will you be doing a review on that one??
Taylormade R9 SuperTri. Why? I drive it well. I hit it pretty far and hit a decent amount of fairways. However I haven't tested any new drivers, I'm looking forward to testing them next year.
Can we see a comparison with the winner of the Driver vs Driver 2? The cortex. When it comes available.
I have the G400 Max. Chiefly for forgiveness. Love it.
Using a Callaway Epic GBB 10.5..., at the time of purchase was the best club to promote my shot shape.
Got fitted and ended up with a g400 max with 65g obam isawa shaft. I also just bought a srixon z785 with a 65g drago shaft xstiff on ebay. I hit both well
Love these test , I’m after a new toy too .....👍😁 another great vlog James
M3 440 for me James. Had the Epic and 917 D3 but got rid of both. Also play an old R7 Quad which i absolutely love. M3 i play because of Looks first and foremost. It just looks how do you say, "FANTASTIC" . Next would be the adjustability. Last would be the ability of the M3 to knock down spin. I am a high spin player and the M3 takes care of that problem. keep up the great work James, i do like your content.
Cobra bio cell plus went for a fitting a couple days ago and I’m still hitting the bio cell. It performed the same as the new drivers for me
I was fitted at club champion for the F8 with the fujikure speeder evolution 3 shaft. 45” Spent lots of $$. Will try the titleist. I play AP3 and hybrids
Still using my Titleist D2 910. Mostly since todays drivers cost sooo much and I do not play so many rounds per year. I would love to upgrade to TS2 or TS3 after a fit. If so I guess I can reuse the shaft I have in my 910. But the price is just sick for the new Titleist drivers so I am not sure when I can buy it.
I don't understand the use of the mats on the fairway. I've never seen that on a course around me.
It protects the fairways in winter mate.
Titleist 915 d3 wasn’t fitted for it but looking for a new one this year can’t make up my mind what to go I’m going to get fitted this time.
I bought the Max, yes it went miles!...upwards, just couldn't keep it down! I traded it in for a 917 D3 AND I LOVE IT!
TM M4, purely cos I was absolutely hammering it on the fitting!
Tried Calloway Rogue and Ping G400 max. Not a lot in them all, but preferred ball flight from M4, and the sound
TS2 71 yrs old was swinging 85-86 mph picked up a good 2 mph with TS2 forgiving and long
Tensai 55 gram regular shaft picked up at least 10-12 yds over my epic with Aldila rogue max shaft
Great video, I'm currently driverless, and in the market. I'm kind of a titleist snob but will hit a few to compare.
Fitted for TS2...Total fairway finder and excellent distance, LOVE IT!!!
I just got fitted about 2mo ago for the 915d3 in an x-stiff diamana. Big upgrade from my previous 910 that wasnt fitted.
I use R15, I fitted myself out of used driver ben. Why do u put grass thing down to hit ball!? That’s crazy.
Recently sold my Callaway Epic because of the numbers on trackman I got from testing the TS3 and testing a demo TS3 on course. Heard yesterday at my golfshop that I have to wait till end of the month😏. Maybe because I ordered the TS 3 with a 45” shaft instead of the now stock lenght of 45.5”... better dispersion and more center hits with a shorter shaft.
Did’t like the looks of the TS2 and my numbers on trackman were better with the TS3.
I have an old school ping eye 2 and a Taylor Superfast. I'm not liking the accuracy of the taylor. I want a modern driver that has more distance but keeps me in the fairway.
I hit the ping g 30 now I was fitted I'm going for a new fitting this year both of these plus the new epic and cobra are on the list to try,I like my g 30 but feel it's time for a up grade we will see
I'm actually using BOTH of the drivers in this video at the moment. I think they're both excellent clubs. The straighter face of the TS2 was what piqued my interest to try it.
Currently gaming the Titliest TS2. Had a great experience with the fitting from the Rep. Love Titleist drivers but Wow the new TS drivers are fantastic 👍
TS2 for me , sounds good, looks good and hits long and forgiving across the face ,had a good round of golf with it yestaday and when you hit some good tee shots you feel much more confident with the rest of your game ,playing at Woodhall Spa you cant afford to blow it it all over the course .Great video again James, and nice to see TS2 getting a bit of screen time over the TS3 for a change .