Golf is booming across the United States, with more new players picking up the game than we've seen in years. From packed municipal courses to fully booked tee sheets across the country, the surge in popularity means more beginners will be searching for equipment that maximizes their skills. One of the most overlooked but essential choices is the golf ball. The right ball can influence distance off the tee, control around the greens, overall feel, and even how long it lasts in your bag. In this guide, I break down the best golf balls in three key categories - Price, Distance + Durability, and Feel.
price
Golf balls are too expensive for beginner golfers. When I started playing golf back in 2017, I only took to the top-name brands, all of which were way out of my price range. And when I did buy them, I wouldn't leave the course with any of the ones I came in with.
The Callaway Supersoft golf ball is absolutely incredible. They will typically range from 24-28 USD, and that price is just the start. They offer an incredibly soft feel, allowing for fast driver speed and quick irons, while providing excellent feel around the greens. This is the perfect ball for a price-sensitive buyer, as well as someone who just needs a quick dozen from the pro shop.
Distance + Durability
If the price of golf balls isn't your biggest concern, thinking about how far you can hit it is the next best thing. When you ask a new golfer what their goal is when they step on the course, their answer will almost 100% of the time be "To hit the ball as far as possible!" Well, to do that, you'll need a ball that will not only last you long, but will also be able to fly far in any conditions.
My personal favorite for long-drive days with my buddies is always the Titleist Pro V1x.
The Titleist Pro V1x is widely regarded as one of the most elite golf balls on the market. Featuring a clean white finish with its signature red numbering, it delivers a premium look to match its performance. Priced between $50–$60 per dozen, it's definitely a ball you'll want to keep in play. Known for exceptional distance, high launch, and a consistent greenside feel, the Pro V1x provides impressive control around the greens, making it a trusted choice for golfers who want precision off the tee and confidence on every approach shot.
Feel
The third and final category is undoubtedly the most important. As a new golfer, I didn't think feeling was super important, as I was only focused on impressing my dad off the tee. Choosing a golf ball really comes down to how you play your game. There are so many different ways to think about and feel, from stinger shots to greenside flops. There is, however, one ball that not only solved my issue with feel, but also my whole game.
This ball is none other than the Taylormade TP5x.
There's so much I can say about this golf ball, but I have to minimize. This ball is absolutely amazing, not only for tee consistency, but also for the greenside and short-iron feel, which I never felt until trying this ball. You would be finding yourself paying ~60 USD, but the return on investment is absolutely worth it. I would absolutely suggest this for any golfer, as I have seen my friends use it (who have never played) and pros on the PGA tour.
| Golf Ball | Best For | Price (Per Dozen) | Distance | Feel | Durability | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Callaway Supersoft | Budget & Soft Feel | $24–$28 | 4⭐ | 4⭐ | 4⭐ | ||
| Titleist Pro V1x | Distance & Control | $50–$70 | 5⭐ | 5⭐ | 4⭐ | ||
| TaylorMade TP5x | Greenside Spin | ~$65 | 5⭐ | 5⭐ | 5⭐ |
