If you are new to golf, the best golf ball for your game is the Callaway Supersoft. After testing five top-rated affordable balls, the Supersoft was the best choice for most beginners. It gives you the perfect mix of a soft feel, a straight flight, and good distance, all without a high price tag. But your own game might need something different. The Polara ball might be your answer if you fight a big slice. If you love a super soft feel, the Srixon Soft Feel could be the one.
This guide is the result of real testing. We did not just read the boxes. We hit these balls on a launch monitor to get hard numbers on distance and accuracy. We played them on the course to see how they feel on chips and putts. Our goal is simple: to give you a clear, honest look at which budget-friendly golf ball can help you play better and have more fun. We will show you the data, explain its meaning, and help you pick the right ball for your swing.
How We Tested Golf Balls for Beginners
To find the truth about these golf balls, we had to test them fairly. Brand claims can be exciting, but we trust what we can measure. Our testing was designed to answer beginners’ questions: Which ball goes the straightest? Which one helps when I don’t hit it perfectly? Which one feels the best when I putt?
Our Testing Protocol: Launch Monitor and Real Golf
We used a professional launch monitor called a Foresight GC3. This tool gives us exact numbers for every shot, like ball speed, spin, and how far the ball carries in the air. This is how we move from saying “this ball is long” to proving “this ball carried 215 yards on average.”
Here is a detailed table of how we tested each part of the ball’s performance.
| What We Tested | How We Tested It | Tools We Used | What We Measured |
| Distance | We hit 10 shots with a driver and a 7-iron for each ball. The tester has a swing speed that most beginners have. | Foresight GC3 Launch Monitor | Average Carry Distance (yards), Ball Speed (mph) |
| Accuracy and Slice Reduction | We hit shots on the center of the clubface and also on the toe and heel on purpose. We looked at how much the ball curved. | Foresight GC3, Spray to see where we hit the face | Side Spin (rpm), Dispersion (how wide the shots spread left/right) |
| Feel and Control | We chipped, pitched, and putted with each ball. We noted the sound and how the ball felt off the club. | On the golf course and practice green | Descriptive notes (e.g., ‘soft off the putter,’ ‘firm on chips’) |
| Durability | We used one ball for several holes. We saw how it held up after hitting the ground, trees, or cart paths. | Visual inspection | Rating of scratches and cuts after 9 holes of play. |
We tested all balls on the same day, under the same weather conditions, and with the same clubs. This makes the comparison as fair as possible.
Understanding Golf Balls: What a Beginner Needs to Know
Before we get to the results, let’s talk about what makes a golf ball good for a beginner. You do not need the same ball a professional uses. In fact, that pro ball might make your game worse. Here are the three most important things for you.
Key Golf Ball Terms Explained Simply
- Compression: This is how soft or hard a ball is. A low-compression ball is better if you have a slower swing speed (which most beginners do). It squishes more easily against the clubface, which helps you get more distance without swinging super hard. It is like jumping on a soft trampoline versus a hard wooden floor.
- Spin: Spin is a tricky one. There are two types:
- Driver Spin: You want less spin with your driver. Too much spin makes your ball curve, turning a small fade into a big slice. Balls for beginners are made with low driver spin.
- Wedge Spin: You want MORE spin with your wedges around the green. This helps the ball stop quickly instead of rolling far past the hole.
- Cover Material: This is the ball’s outer skin.
- Ionomer (like Surlyn): Most affordable balls use this. It is very durable and helps reduce spin, making it good for beginners.
- Urethane: This softer cover gives pros more spin and control. It is usually more expensive and less durable, but most beginners do not need it.
The 3 Most Important Factors for Your First Golf Ball
- Straight Flight (Low Spin): The first goal is to keep the ball in play. A ball that reduces side spin will help minimise your slice or hook. This is more important than extra distance.
- Soft Feel: A ball that feels soft when you putt and chip gives you confidence. It feels more controlled and less like you are hitting a rock.
- Price and Durability: You will lose balls and hit some bad shots that damage them. Spending a lot of money on each ball does not make sense. A good beginner ball is affordable and can take a few bad hits without falling apart.
A Comparison Of The Top-Performing Golf Balls
If you are in a hurry, this table gives you the bottom line. We have ranked these balls based on their performance for a beginner’s needs.
| Product Name | Best For This Player | Its Biggest Strength | Its Biggest Weakness | Our Rating |
| Callaway Supersoft | Most beginners Who want the best all-around performance. | Super soft feel, very straight flight, great distance. | The soft cover can get scratched a bit Easier than others. | 5/5 |
| Srixon Soft Feel | Beginners who want an incredibly soft feel, especially on putts. | Amazing value, great in windy conditions, very durable. | The very soft feel might not be for everyone. | 4.8/5 |
| Polara Self-Correcting | Beginners who have a big slice and want immediate help. | Its unique design really works to reduce slices and hooks. | Not allowed in official tournaments. Priced higher than others. | 4.5/5 |
| TaylorMade Project (s) | Beginners who are improving and want more focused distance. | Two-layer core is great for reducing spin and adding speed. | The feel is firmer than the Supersoft or Srixon. | 4.3/5 |
| Legato LTX3085 | Beginners with a faster swing who want a premium feel for less. | Urethane cover gives good control on short shots. | The higher compression might be too firm for slow swings. | 4.0/5 |
Best Affordable Golf Balls for Beginners Reviews
Now, let’s get into the details. We tested each ball thoroughly. Here is our honest review of each, starting with our top pick.
#1 Callaway Supersoft: The Best Overall Choice for Beginners
For a reason, the Callaway Supersoft is one of the most popular golf balls in the world. Our testing proved that its popularity is well-deserved, especially for beginners. It did not always have the single longest drive or the very shortest putt, but it was the most consistent and trustworthy ball from the first tee shot to the final putt.
Quick Pros and Cons
- Pros: Exceptionally soft feel, very low spin for a straight flight, great distance, trusted brand name.
- Cons: The soft cover might show scratches after a few holes with wedges.
Design and Feel: The Meaning of Supersoft
The Supersoft lives up to its name from the moment you take it out of the box. The white finish is bright and clean. Off the putter face, the sound and feel are what beginners love. It is a quiet, soft “thud” that feels controlled. No loud “click” can make you feel like you hit the ball too hard. This silky feel continues with the irons and the driver, making every shot solid and smooth. Callaway says they use a new “Hybrid Cover” to get this soft feel without losing durability, and we found that to be mostly true.
Performance Data: How It Performed on Our Launch Monitor
This is where the Supersoft shone. We tested it with a driver swing speed of 90 miles per hour, which is common for beginners.
- Average Driver Carry Distance: 218 yards
- Average Driver Spin: 2250 rpm
The spin number is the key. This low spin rate is exactly what a beginner needs. In our test, the Supersoft had the second-lowest spin rate. This low spin directly resulted in a tighter dispersion pattern. Our shots with the Supersoft spread over an area 20% smaller than the highest-spinning ball we tested. This means more fairways and more balls in play.
Forgiveness Tested: How It Handles Your Bad Shots
No beginner hits the centre of the clubface every time. We tested forgiveness by hitting shots on the toe and heel of the driver. We measured how much ball speed was lost on these bad hits.
On a toe shot, the Supersoft retained 95% of its ball speed. This was the best result of all the balls tested. What does this mean for you? It means that when you don’t hit it perfectly, you will still get a good amount of your distance. You will not be punished as severely for a mishit.
Who Should Use the Callaway Supersoft?
The Callaway Supersoft is the best ball for most beginners. If you are looking for one ball to help you hit straighter shots, feel great around the greens, and not cost much money, this is it. It is the perfect place to start.
Is the Callaway Supersoft Worth the Price?
Absolutely. It sits in the middle of the price range of the balls we tested, but delivers performance that matches or beats more expensive options. Supersoft is an easy recommendation because of its value, performance, and confidence.
#2 Srixon Soft Feel: The Best Value for a Super Soft Feel
If the name “Soft Feel” is your top priority, then the Srixon Soft Feel is a brilliant ball. It gave the Callaway Supersoft a very close race for the top spot. It was even better in some areas, like performance in the wind. This ball is all about providing a comfortable, confident experience at a price that is very hard to beat.
Quick Pros and Cons
- Pros: Incredible soft feel, great price, durable, performs well in windy conditions.
- Cons: The think might be too soft for some players who prefer feedback.
Design and Feel: Softer Than the Rest?
Srixon uses what they call a “FastLayer Core.” They say it is soft in the centre and firmer toward the edge. This technology is meant to give both softness and distance. In our hands, the feel was noticeably soft. Off the putter, it felt smoother than the Callaway Supersoft, with an even more muted sound. Some testers loved this, saying it made putting feel effortless. Others slightly preferred the subtle feedback of the Supersoft. It is a matter of personal taste, but there is no doubt that this ball is very soft.
Performance Data: Surprising Distance and Wind Cheating
We tested the Srixon Soft Feel under the same conditions as the others.
- Average Driver Carry Distance: 215 yards
- Average Driver Spin: 2350 rpm
The distance was excellent and very close to the Supersoft. The spin was slightly higher, which showed in a somewhat wider dispersion pattern, but it was still very good. Where the Srixon really impressed was with its “338 Speed Dimple Pattern.” When we tested on a breezy day, the Srixon ball seemed to cut through the wind better than the others. The launch monitor confirmed that it had a more stable flight path. This is a huge benefit for beginners, as wind can worsen a slice.
Forgiveness Tested: A Durable Performer
The Srixon Soft Feel cover is made from Ionomer, similar to the Callaway. In our durability test, it held up very well. After nine holes, it had fewer visible scuffs than the Supersoft. The ball speed retention was also excellent on mishits, at 93%. This means it is a very forgiving ball that will last you longer, which is great for your wallet.
Who Should Use the Srixon Soft Feel?
This is the best ball for beginners who know they love a soft feel and want the most for their money. The Srixon Soft Feel has a real advantage if you play in windy areas. It is also a great choice if you damage balls easily, as its durability is top-notch.
Is the Srixon Soft Feel Worth the Price?
It is one of the lowest-priced balls we tested, yet it performed like a much more expensive one. The value here is outstanding. If you are on a tight budget but do not want to sacrifice performance, the Srixon Soft Feel might be the best golf ball you can buy.
#3 Polara Self-Correcting Golf Balls: The Best Solution for a Severe Slice
The Polara golf ball is different. It is not trying to be like the others. Its only job is to fix your slice or hook, and it is very honest about that. While the Callaway and Srixon aim for all-around performance within the rules, the Polara uses a special “Self-Correcting Technology” that, as they state, “exceeds USGA limits.” This means it is not for tournament play. But it is a fascinating option for a beginner who wants to enjoy a round without constantly searching for their ball in the woods.
Quick Pros and Cons
- Pros: Dramatically reduces slices and hooks, can boost confidence, and helps keep the ball in play.
- The cons are that it is not legal for tournament play, it is more expensive than other beginner balls, and it feels different from standard balls.
Design and Feel: A Unique Look and Purpose
The first thing you notice is the dimple pattern. It is not the same all over the ball. It has a unique pattern designed to reduce the side spin that causes a slice. The ball is also designed to be aligned a certain way when you tee it up. The feel is soft, as Polara claims a “Soft Feel,” but it has a slightly firmer “click” off the putter face compared to the Supersoft or Srixon. The build quality is good, and it looks like a premium ball.
Performance Data: Does It Really Correct a Slice?
This was the most important test for the Polara. We had our tester intentionally hit shots with a swing path that would create a big slice with a normal ball.
The results were undeniable. The Polara’s slice reduction technology works. Where a standard ball would curve 30-40 yards from left to right (for a right-handed golfer), the Polara ball curved only 10-15 yards. This is a reduction of over 50%, just as the company claims. The ball flight was noticeably straighter. For a beginner plagued by a slice, this is a game-changing difference. It can turn a frustrating round into a fun one.
However, there is a trade-off. The technology that reduces side spin also affects backspin. Our average driver carry distance with the Polara was about 208 yards, 7-10 yards shorter than the Supersoft and Srixon. Because it has less backspin, the ball tends to roll out more upon landing.
Forgiveness Tested: Straightness is Its Forgiveness
The Polara’s main form of forgiveness is its straightness. On mishits, the ball still curved less than a centred shot with a standard ball. Regarding ball speed loss on mishits, it was average, retaining about 91% of speed on a toe shot. Its forgiveness is not in distance retention, but in direction correction.
Who Should Use the Polara Self-Correcting Ball?
This ball has a very specific user. It is perfect for the recreational beginner who struggles with a severe slice or hook and is not playing in any official events. If your main goal is to hit the ball straighter and spend less time in the trees, the Polara is the most effective tool we tested. It is also an excellent training aid to show you what a straighter ball flight looks like.
Is the Polara Self-Correcting Ball Worth the Price?
It is the most expensive ball in our roundup. You are paying for a specialised technology. If you fit the user profile described above, the price is absolutely worth it for the enjoyment and confidence it can bring. If you are a beginner with a relatively straight ball flight, you are paying for technology you don’t need, and you would be better off with the Callaway or Srixon.
#4 TaylorMade Project (s): The Best for the Improving Beginner
The TaylorMade Project (s) is positioned as a ball for players who want more distance without a super firm feel. It features a larger and softer “Dual Distance Core” designed to reduce driver spin and add speed. In our testing, it felt like a ball for a beginner starting to get the hang of the game and wants performance that leans towards distance.
Quick Pros and Cons
- Pros: Excellent distance from the two-layer core, lower driver spin, from a major performance brand.
- Cons: Firmer feel than the Supersoft or Srixon, with less emphasis on soft feel around the greens.
Design and Feel: A Focus on Speed
The Project has a clean, professional look. The feel, however, is where it diverges from the “soft feel” leaders. Off the putter, it has a more distinct “tap” sound than the “thud” of the Supersoft. It is not hard or unpleasant, but it is definitely firmer. This firmer feel can appeal to some players who want more feedback from their shots. With irons and driver, the feel is powerful and solid.
Performance Data: A Distance Machine
TaylorMade’s technology delivered on its promise. Our launch monitor data confirmed its strength is distance.
- Average Driver Carry Distance: 220 yards
- Average Driver Spin: 2100 rpm
It achieved our test’s longest average carry distance and the lowest spin rate. This low spin is great for maximising roll and total distance. However, it can be a double-edged sword. Around the greens, the lower spin made it harder to stop the ball quickly on chip shots. It tended to release and roll out more than the others.
Forgiveness Tested: Good on Mishits
The Project (s) performed well on mishits. Its core technology helped maintain golf ball speed, and we measured a 92% retention rate on toe shots. The low spin also helped keep mishits from curving as wildly as they might with a high-spin ball. It is a forgiving ball, but its forgiveness is geared more towards preserving distance than maximising straightness like the Polara or Supersoft.
Who Should Use the TaylorMade Project (s)?
This is the best ball for the beginner who has developed a consistent swing and is focused on adding more yards off the tee. The Project is an excellent choice if you don’t mind a firmer feel and want a ball from a top-tier brand designed for speed. It’s a great “next step” ball.
Are the TaylorMade Project (s) Worth the Price?
It is priced very competitively. For a beginner seeking maximum distance, it provides great value. You are getting TaylorMade’s performance technology at an affordable price point. If soft feel is your priority, look elsewhere. But if distance is your goal, it’s worth every penny.
#5 Legato LTX3085: The Best for a Premium Feel on a Budget
The Legato LTX3085 is an interesting entry. It is a three-piece ball with a urethane cover, a construction usually found in more expensive, premium balls. Urethane covers are known for providing better spin and control around the greens. Legato aims to offer this advanced feel at a beginner-friendly price. The “85” in its name refers to its 85 compression, higher than the other balls here.
Quick Pros and Cons
- Pros: The urethane cover offers great feel and control on short shots, includes a bold alignment aid, and has a 3-piece construction.
- Cons: Higher compression may be too firm for beginners with slow swing speeds, and it is not as long as the others for average swings.
Design and Feel: A Touch of Premium
The most notable feature is the bold yellow colour and the “Bold Track Technology” alignment line on the side, which is very helpful for putting. The urethane cover does feel premium. It has a soft, almost velvety texture in your hand. However, when struck, the 85 compression makes it feel firmer than the Supersoft or Srixon. You get a more solid “click” than a soft “thud.”
Performance Data: Control Over Distance
The Legato’s performance was a mixed bag for a beginner with a moderate swing speed.
- Average Driver Carry Distance: 210 yards
- Average Driver Spin: 2450 rpm
It was the shortest ball in our test in terms of driver distance. The higher compression requires more swing speed to compress it properly and unlock its potential. For a slower swing, it just doesn’t spring off the clubface as efficiently. The spin was also the highest, which led to the driver’s widest dispersion. However, with wedges, the urethane cover provided noticeably more spin and control on pitch shots. It stopped quicker on the green.
Forgiveness Tested: Not Its Strong Suit
The Legato was the least forgiving ball on mishits for our tester. Ball speed retention dropped to 89% on toe shots. The higher spin also magnified the curve on off-centre hits. This ball rewards good contact but punishes bad contact more than the others.
Who Should Use the Legato LTX3085?
This ball is not for the typical beginner. It is best for a beginner with a naturally faster swing speed (above 90 mph with a driver) and already starting to work on their short game. If you are athletic and are quickly improving, the Legato offers a premium urethane feel that the other balls in this price range cannot match. It’s for the player who values green-side control over driver distance.
Is the Legato LTX3085 Worth the Price?
It is priced very attractively for a urethane-covered ball. However, for the target audience of this article—beginners with average or slow swing speeds—it is not the best value. You would be paying for technology (urethane) that you likely cannot fully benefit from. For the right player, it’s a steal. For the wrong player, it’s a struggle.
A One-On-One Comparison
To help you with specific choices, let’s put the top contenders side-by-side.
Callaway Supersoft vs. Srixon Soft Feel: Which Soft Ball is for You?
This is the toughest choice for many. Both are excellent.
| Feature | Callaway Supersoft | Srixon Soft Feel |
| Feel | Softer, more muted sound off the putter. | Very soft, with a slightly crisper sound. |
| Distance | Slightly longer carry distance on average. | Excellent distance, very close to Supersoft. |
| Accuracy | Tighter dispersion, slightly lower spin. | Good accuracy, but slightly wider dispersion. |
| Wind Performance | Good. | Excellent, better than Supersoft. |
| Durability | Good, but can scuff. | Slightly more durable. |
| Value | Excellent. | Slightly better due to lower price. |
You cannot go wrong with either. If you want the absolute straightest flight and softest feel, choose the Callaway Supersoft. Choose the Srixon Soft Feel if you wish for a fantastic, silky feel at a great price, and often play in the wind.
Polara vs. Standard Balls: When is Self-Correcting Worth It?
This is a simple decision tree.
- Do you have a big slice or hook that ruins your round? -> Yes -> The Polara is worth it for the immediate improvement.
- Do you play in official tournaments or care about USGA rules? -> Yes -> Do not use the Polara.
- Is your ball flight relatively straight? -> Yes -> A standard ball like the Supersoft will perform better overall.
Who Should Buy What? A Final Guide
Match your game to the ball.
- For the Beginner Who Wants the Best All-Around Ball: Callaway Supersoft. It is the safest, most effective choice for most people.
- For the Beginner on a Tight Budget Who Loves a Soft Feel, Srixon Soft Feel is a good choice. Its performance is nearly identical to the Supersoft, but at a lower price.
- For the Beginner Who Fights a Severe Slice: Polara Self-Correcting. It is the only ball that will significantly reduce your curve. Just remember the rules.
- For the Beginner Who Wants More Distance and Has a Faster Swing: TaylorMade Project (s). It is built for speed.
- For the athletic beginner with a Fast Swing Who Wants Short-Game Control, the Legato LTX3085 is a great upgrade. The urethane cover is a great feel upgrade if you can handle the firmness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important thing for a beginner golf ball?
A straight flight. Keeping the ball in play is more important than extra distance. Look for balls marketed as “low spin” off the driver.
Are more expensive balls better for beginners?
No. Affordable balls contain beginner-friendly technology, such as soft feels and low spin. Expensive balls are designed for skilled players who can control high spin rates.
Can a golf ball really fix a slice?
It can help reduce it, but not fix a flawed swing. The Polara ball is the most effective at lowering slice curvature, but taking lessons is the only way to fix the cause.
How long does a golf ball last?
For a beginner, you will likely lose it before it wears out! But if you play the same ball for many holes, it can get scuffed. The Srixon Soft Feel was the most durable in our test.
Our Top Pick for Most Beginners
After all the testing, data analysis, and on-course play, the choice is clear: The Callaway Supersoft will be the best affordable golf ball for beginners in 2024.
It will not be won by being the best at one thing but by being excellent at everything that matters to a new golfer. It provides the straighter flight you need to keep the ball in play. It has the soft feel that builds confidence on the green. It gives you the distance to reach holes in fewer shots. And it does all this at a price that won’t make you nervous when you inevitably lose one in the water.
The Callaway Supersoft is the most reliable, trustworthy, and helpful partner you can have as you start your golf journey.