Choosing the right golf ball is crucial for beginners and high handicappers looking to improve their game. Our rankings are built specifically for everyday golfers—not pros—focusing on forgiveness, distance, feel, and value to help you hit straighter, gain more yards, and have more fun. Using data-driven research, expert reviews, and real player feedback, we’ve identified the best options to boost confidence and consistency on the course.
Best For: Beginner and high-handicap golfers who want an ultra-soft feel, excellent forgiveness, and easy distance with a low-compression ball.
Best For: Beginner and mid-handicap golfers who want a soft-feeling ball with good distance and decent greenside control at an affordable price.
Best For: Beginners and high-handicap golfers looking for an ultra-soft feel without sacrificing too much distance. Great for players with slower swing speeds who want a forgiving ball that provides a balance of softness and playability.
Best For: Golfers seeking a soft-feel, long-distance ball with high forgiveness and durability, especially for mid-to-high handicappers looking for consistent performance.
Best For: High-handicap golfers and beginners looking for an affordable, forgiving, and straight-flying golf ball. With its low spin off the driver and soft feel, it’s a solid option for those who prioritize value and consistency over premium-level greenside control.
Best For: Golfers looking for maximum distance at an affordable price, especially those with moderate swing speeds who prioritize straight, long shots off the tee over greenside control.
Best For: Great for beginner and high-handicap golfers looking for an affordable, long-distance golf ball with a soft feel and good durability. Ideal for players who prioritize straight, forgiving shots over greenside spin.
Best For: Mid-to-high handicappers who want straighter ball flight, added forgiveness, and solid distance. The unique Contact Force Dimple pattern reduces sidespin and makes it one of the most forgiving and accurate golf balls in its category.
Best For: Ideal for beginners and mid-handicappers who want maximum distance and high launch off the tee. Perfect for players who struggle with height and need extra carry but don’t prioritize greenside spin.
Best For: Beginners and high-handicap golfers who want maximum distance off the tee at an affordable price. Great for players with moderate to slow swing speeds looking for extra carry and roll.
Best For: High-handicap and casual golfers who struggle with a slice or hook and want a self-correcting golf ball to keep more shots in the fairway. It’s perfect for recreational players looking for a more enjoyable and stress-free round but is not legal for tournament play.
Best For: Mid-to-low handicappers and high swing speed players who want a Tour-level ball with excellent distance and control at a lower price than premium brands.
Best For: Beginners, high-handicappers, and budget-conscious golfers who need an affordable, durable, and long-flying golf ball. Ideal for players who frequently lose balls and want maximum distance at the lowest cost.
How We Rank & Rate Golf Balls
We spend hundreds of hours gathering data, analyzing performance metrics, and reviewing expert opinions to create an objective, data-driven ranking system that helps beginners and high handicappers find the best golf ball for their game.
We don’t just rely on opinions—we use a scoring system based on real-world performance, forgiveness, and value to ensure fair and accurate rankings.
We evaluate golf balls across three main categories and 12 key factors that are most important for beginners and high handicappers.
| Category | Weight (%) | What It Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Forgiveness & Straight Flight | 40 | Reduces sidespin to help minimize slices and hooks |
| Distance & Launch | 30 | Helps beginners maximize carry and total yardage |
| Feel & Compression | 15 | Low compression makes it easier to hit and adds a softer feel |
| Durability & Value | 15 | Affordable pricing and long-lasting materials |
Performance Breakdown (40% – Forgiveness & Straight Flight)
| Factor | Weight (%) | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Low Sidespin | 15 | Reduces slices and hooks for straighter shots |
| High MOI (Forgiveness) | 15 | Helps maintain accuracy on off-center hits |
| Alignment & Visibility | 10 | Easy-to-see designs for better targeting |
Distance & Launch (30%)
| Factor | Weight (%) | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Ball Speed | 15 | Helps maximize carry distance |
| High Launch | 10 | Easier to get airborne for better trajectory |
| Aerodynamics | 5 | Dimple patterns improve flight stability |
Why Trust Our Rankings?
- Designed for Beginners & High Handicappers – We rank golf balls based on what actually helps newer players improve their game.
- Data-Driven & Research-Backed – We analyze expert reviews, user feedback, and industry performance tests.
- Balanced & Fair Rankings – We ensure an objective evaluation based on forgiveness, distance, feel, and value.