Which golf balls should I buy? Top 2026 models for your handicap in comparison
Want to buy the perfect golf balls? We compare the 2026 innovations from TaylorMade, Callaway and Titleist for every level of play. Compare now.
The new season is just around the corner and for many active golfers the annual question arises: which golf balls to buy? For 2026, the leading manufacturers such as Titleist, TaylorMade, Callaway and Srixon have made massive technological upgrades. Whether maximum distance, surgical precision on the green or a butter-soft feel - the selection has rarely been as precisely tailored to the individual needs of players as it is today.
In this overview, we summarize the highlights of the season so that you can start the new golf year with the right equipment.
Premium Performance: When you want to buy the best of the best golf balls
For ambitious golfers, the ball is the most important tool for consistency. in 2026, innovations in surface coating will dominate.
TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x: Precision through microcoating
This year TaylorMade is relying on "microcoating" technology. The paint is applied so thinly that the aerodynamics of the dimples are not disturbed by paint build-up.
- Anyone looking for maximum control and a soft feel should buy the TP5 as their next golf ball.
- If you are looking for ball speed and distance, the TP5x is the manufacturer's fastest 5-layer ball.
- Tip: The pix variants also offer players excellent visual feedback when Puttering thanks to the diamond pattern.
Find out more about the differences between TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x golf balls here.
Titleist AVX: The specialist for a flat flight
The new Titleist AVX 2026 is designed for people who need a flatter trajectory and less spin in the long game, but don't want to sacrifice a premium urethane shell. Thanks to the new "Spin Slope" technology, it now offers even more grip on chips and pitches.
Read more about the new Titleist AVX golf balls here.
Callaway Chrome Tour & Tour X: The scoring machines
Callaway is reorganizing its range. The Chrome Tour is the powerhouse for a penetrating trajectory, while the Chrome Tour X maximizes spin around the green for power hitters. Both models utilize the new Tour Fast Soft Core for extremely efficient energy transfer.
Read a comparison of the new Callaway Chrome Tour and Tour X golf balls here.
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The golden mean: Performance models for the mid-handicap
Not everyone needs a 5-ply ball. Many active players are better off buying a forgiving golf ball that still utilizes Tour technologies.
- Callaway Chrome Soft: It remains the benchmark for those looking for ultra-soft feel and support to get the ball higher in the air.
- Titleist Tour Soft: Often referred to as the "secret gem" by experts. The new 386 double pyramid dimple design ensures a stable flight, even when it gets windy on the Fairway.
- Srixon AD333: If you want to buy an inexpensive but high-performance golf ball, the AD333 (now in its 11th generation) is the ideal choice. Its FastLayer core provides length and a straight flight pattern.
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Distance and soft feel: the specialists for beginners
For many recreational golfers, two things are paramount: distance and a pleasant feel at impact.
- Titleist Velocity: This ball is consistently trimmed for speed. If you simply want to get every meter out of your drive, you should buy this golf ball.
- Titleist TruFeel: The softest model in the Titleist range has been equipped with a new TruFlex cover for 2026, which gives more confidence on approach shots.
- TaylorMade Speedsoft INK: A soft ball that stands out above all with its eye-catching multicolor design, increasing visibility on the course for everyone involved.
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Comparison table: Which golf balls will you buy in 2026?
| Model | Characteristic | Flight curve | Feel | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TaylorMade TP5 | Premium Allrounder | Medium | Soft | 65,00 € |
| TaylorMade TP5x | Ultimate Speed | High | Firm | 65,00 € / 68,00 € (pix) |
| Titleist AVX | Low Spin Specialist | Flat | Soft | 59,99 € |
| Callaway Chrome Tour | Tour Performance | Penetrating | Medium | 65,00 € |
| Callaway Chrome Tour X | Maximum Spin | Medium-High | Medium-Firm | 65,00 € |
| Callaway Chrome Soft | Forgiveness | High | Very soft | 65,00 € |
| Titleist Tour Soft | Allround Performance | Medium-High | Soft | 44,99 € |
| Srixon AD333 | Price-performance winner | Medium-High | Medium-Soft | 21,99 € |
| Titleist Velocity | Maximum Distance | Medium | Firm | 39,99 € |
| Titleist TruFeel | Soft Feel Focus | Deep-Medium | Ultra soft | 34,99 € |
| TaylorMade Speedsoft INK | Visibility & Softness | Medium | Very soft | 34,99 € |
What should you look out for when buying a golf ball?
Choosing the right ball is as individual as your swing. Before you buy a new golf ball, you should ask yourself where your biggest problem lies: Is it a lack of length or control on the green?
A modern trend for 2026 is "bottom-up fitting": test new balls by Puttering and Chipper first. If you like the feel and feedback here, you have laid the foundation for a successful game. In our detailed individual articles on the respective models (linked above), players will find even deeper insights into the technical specifications of the 2026 innovations.
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Release date
18 Feb 2026
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Are you also asking yourself the question before the season starts: Which golf balls should I buy? You'll find the answer in this guide. (Photo: Adobe Stock)
