Best Distance Golf Balls 2023

If you want extra yards, check out our guide to the best distance golf balls on the market...

Best Distance Golf Balls

There are lots of things we all wish our golf balls would do. Fly straight, stop on the green and maybe not land in the rough... But there is one thing that we can all agree on that tops the list of priorities for a golf ball and that is more distance. Thankfully, from the best premium golf balls all the way down to the budget packs, there's barely a product on the market nowadays where this isn't a major consideration for the manufacturer. But while tour-caliber models are just as concerned about spin, control and feel, our focus here is on the sole quest for extra yards.

That does mean that there are sacrifices that you'll need to make elsewhere - although perhaps not as many as was once the case. More and more, manufacturers are finding ways to cram an element of feel and control into balls designed to deliver extra yards. Brands are also adding better alignment aids and more color options to the latest distance balls on the market too, so there are plenty of great options to choose from.

While they will inevitably feel firmer on and around the greens, it's important to remember that the best distance golf balls are often the cheapest as well. So, if you're new to the game or tend to lose more than your fair share, one of these could be perfect. Alternatively, we also have a guide to the best value golf balls on the market, meaning you won't have to shell out too much cash for a new batch of ammo.

Most distance balls usually feature a two-piece design comprising of merely a cover and a core, dissimilarly to the multi-layer constructions used in the best golf balls. It is this simple production method that makes them a great blend of all-out distance and affordability. So, if price and distance are more important than all-around performance, the models below are the ones you should be checking out. Also make sure you have a look at our other golf ball guides, such as the best golf balls for high handicappers or the best mid-price golf balls.

Why you can trust Golf Monthly Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Our expert review:

The Srixon Distance golf ball, one of the most popular balls in the distance category. As each generation of Srixon ball goes by, the brand implements updates here and there, with this new model boasting a softer compression than its predecessor. This is to help deliver optimum distance and a higher launch angle for a penetrating ball flight. While it may not deliver the same level of control as some premium golf balls, yet it did feel quite grippy and easy to control around the greens, which is ample for any high handicap player.

The dimple count is down significantly too (108 fewer), which Srixon says will reduce drag and increase lift for better performance in all wind conditions. During our testing sessions, we did see a good increase in distance and penetration of the air in windy conditions so these claims seem to stack up. High handicap players will also enjoy the durable cover which is engineered for greater cut-proof durability, meaning the Srixon Distance is one of the best value golf balls around.

Our expert review:

The Titleist Velocity 2022 continues the brand's claim to be the longest golf ball in the Titleist range. It comes with a two piece High Velocity LSX Core that makes the ball a little firmer helping to generate more speed on shots around the course. Additionally, the brand introduced a new octahedral pattern on the NaZ+ ionomer cover which comes with 350 dimples for a high flight with a little more consistency. It is a pretty low spinning golf ball, and we found that you certainly need this additional height on your shots. The low spin was welcomed though as it does help keep the ball on line, driving straight towards your target.

Our testing revealed that the ball did fly higher with the driver and carried 5 yards further when compared to the previous generation. The spin was very low which was great for distance but again, there is a tradeoff in terms of feel because there is less spin on approaches and less control on chips around the green. To take a full in-depth look at the rest of the Titleist range, have a read of our best Titleist golf balls guide.

Our expert review:

Long drive champions need to play with a ball that will help them get good yardages and this offering from Bridgestone is perhaps one of greatest for gains off the tee on the market right now. It is a two-piece offering that has been crafted in partnership with the World Long Drive Association with a goal of delivering 'maximum power on every shot'. The aerodynamics on this golf ball are something that any manufacturer should admire, with the e9 coming with a 330-dimple cover, that delivers seamless flights that soar through the air.

The ball comes with a a 'gradational core' that is harder on the outsdie and softer in the center. Bridgestone say this is to provide faster ball speeds and there's no doubt that in our testing, we found the distance and consistency of distance genuinely impressive. While it may not match up to some of the best soft-feel golf balls it also offers an excellent feel through contact and felt softer than we were expecting. In our opinion, this is a fantastic all-round golf ball that offers excellent spin and playability in approach to the greens. If you're looking for more yardages without sacrificing spin and feel around the greens, then this is a fantastic option to consider.

Our expert review:

Callaway has used the Warbird name for several decades now, and has become synonymous with distance and speed in its ball range. These are some of the best golf balls for high handicappers looking to get the ball up in the air and longer down the fairways. The latest model uses a two-piece construction with an extra-large, high-energy core to promote distance with a high launch at different swing speeds. All of that sounds ideal for the golfer seeking more yards and who struggles to get the ball in the air, but what was the performance actually like?

Well in our testing we found there were extra yards to be had, especially on iron shots into the greens. Its firmish ionomer cover provides less check and control than some might want greenside. However, we feel this tradeoff is worth it because of the distance on offer. With the driver, we found it felt extremely hot and delivered a strong ball flight with tons of roll. We also loved how durable this ball was, with the ball taking a beating in our sessions without blemishing too severely.For more offerings from Callaway, check out our best Callaway golf balls guide.

Our expert review:

The TaylorMade Distance+ ball is about speed and distance, with its REACT Speed Core and aerodynamic 342-dimple pattern promoting low-drag, high-velocity performance. This is a very well-priced ball, which comes in at a small fraction that you might pay for some of the best golf balls on the market. The soft ionomer cover not only provides a decent greenside feel but also boosts the ball's scuff-resistant properties for greater durability. That means you'll feel comfortable putting all your energy through this golf ball to smash your shots long distances.

The Distance+ is touted as a mid-launch ball with its flight looking great off the tee. If you did want to keep the ball down, this was possible too as it offers a lot of creativity. During testing, we felt the ball operated well around the greens but it doesn't offer quite as much spin as other balls on the market. It does come off the face nicely but if you're looking for lots of grab then perhaps it may not be right for you. That being said, the sound is nice off the face and it felt excellent when struck with our putter. The final part of the package is a new cross-shaped ‘plus’ alignment stamp to help you line up and aim properly with the putter.

Our expert review:

Bridgestone are a leader when it comes to producing high-end golf balls for great value and the E12 Contact 2023 is an excellent offering that comes with a ton of features that'll help you improve as a golfer. It is one of the best distance golf balls on the market thanks to its FLEXATIV Surlyn cover which helps to create 46 percent more surface contact with the clubface at impact. That translates into a better feel, more speed and greater traction when you're looking to add that extra bit of spin on the golf ball. We found that with the driver, it behaved like some of the firmer balls on the market, but with our wedges, it was akin to some of the best soft feel golf balls.

One thing you will also notice on this ball is that each dimple has a raised outer portion that helps to improve the aerodynamics of the golf ball. The added height helps to stop the ball from drifting off-line and keeps it flying straight through the air. That also improves the contact area on the clubface with players able to get more spin on shots around the greens. In our testing sessions, we found the e12 Contact delivered very satisfying ball flights that were consistent and straight. Putting was easy and the ball felt nice coming off the face of the club. Ultimately, this was one of the best mid price golf balls we've tested this year.

Our expert review:

This low-compression Wilson ball promises extreme distance through a hard ionomer cover material that optimizes trajectory for maximum yardage and roll. From our testing, we can vouch that this ball certainly delivers. The enhanced aerodynamic dimple pattern really does add to the power potential from the tee. These balls are very durable and won't mark up easily, even when they bounced off the cart path.

That is in part due to the solid ionomer cover on the ball that comes with an aerodynamic dimple pattern that helps the ball to fly a lot further. It comes with a very satisfying trajectory and we found many of our drives hit lower through the air and delivered greater gains in distance. Although the Wilson Velocity Distance is a low-compression ball overall, its mid-compression core introduces an element of greenside playability too.

The Velocity Distance is also up there as one of the best value golf balls on the market too, thanks to the three extra golf balls you'll find in the box. While most other brands provide only 12, we were surprised to find 15 in the Wilson Velocity Distance package. Overall, it is the perfect golf ball that can help recreational golfers reach higher distances off the tee.

Our expert review:

Having made big strides in the golf ball market in recent years, OnCore are continuing to innovate and produce an excellent range of high-quality golf balls. And the Elixr is one of their best offerings yet. It is their Tour-standard golf ball and boasts impressive gains off the tee and exceptional ball flights. It is also very durable and comes at a great price compared to other balls on this list, making it one of the best value golf balls on the market.

On testing, we thoroughly enjoyed playing with this three-piece golf ball. It boasts a urethane cover that delivers a Tour-quality feel and performance from tee to green. It is a little firmer than previous models and has a new dimple pattern that is designed to deliver a higher ball flight. And that's where the Elixr really stood out. It was impressively long off the driver and when hitting full approach shots. The ball has a strong flight and travels pretty straight for the most part. Around the greens, the Elixr performed very well too and generated pretty adequate amount of stopping power too. Overall, we were very impressed with this high launching golf ball, which offered great distance off the tee.

Our expert review:

Standing out from the crowd, this golf ball is one of the most aesthetically pleasing offerings on the market. From its packaging down to its branding, it is an excellent-looking addition to this list, but it packs a punch too. The Sounder Golf Ball is an affordable three-piece urethane golf ball that delivers on quality and game-improving performance. Testing it with a launch monitor and over 18 holes, it was clear the Sounder offered exceptional distance, totaling a fast speed off the clubface and flighted through the air well. We did think that the ball flight was a little lower than we were used too, but that's not too big of a problem, with the Sounder carrying strong from start to finish.

Data with our 7-iron was solid too. Carrying 166 yards with a mid-spin of 5313, we liked how much distance and stopping power the ball offered. It did lack in spin control around the green as it is quite a firm golf ball, but that solid feel does make it a fantastic year-round golf ball. If you're after something a bit less firm off the clubface, check out our guide on the best soft-feeling golf balls.

Our expert review:

Founded in 2001 Zero Golf made its name in the industry designing and building golf tees that offered players greater distance. But the brand are not letting up in their quest to help golfers hit the ball further and have developed these fantastic distance golf balls that we had the pleasure of testing. Looking at the ball, it has a two-piece construction and a large super-fast core for explosive distance. And we were impressed with how hot off the face this ball was and how fun it was to play.

It provided a higher launch and excellent roll out on longer iron shots. Plus it was easy to flight and we felt the zip of the ball off the tee when we powered through our swing. It offered excellent roll outs too on mid iron shots which may or may not be to your tastes depending on what you want from your mid irons. In the short game, we did think it felt a touch heavy off the face of our wedges, but we were able to make the ball grab on well-struck shots. While there may not be a ball that is easier to find out on the fairways, we were impressed with the overall performance on offer here.

Our expert review:

If you're looking for a golf ball that will maximize distance and consistency off the tee then this offering from Snell is a great option. Coming in at excellent value too, the Get Sum golf ball is perfect for individuals looking for a high-performance golf ball that won't cost them a bomb. Made from a soft Surlyn material, the Get Sum golf ball is designed to help players get the ball up in the air more easily. It also spins less than many other offerings on the market, to help you strike the ball straighter and further.

During our testing sessions, we quickly found out that this is a no-nonsense golf ball that might not offer a lot of control around the greens, but will certainly help you improve in your long game. With a driver or metalwood in hand the flight and impact was very consistent and controllable - great for those wanting more distance off the tee. The Get Sum did struggle to grab on shorter shots around the greens and did scuff easily. Yet these balls from Snell deliver excellent value for money, and for that reason are one of the best golf balls for beginners.

Our expert review:

The Pinnacle name has long been associated with some of the best value golf balls on the market and the brand's latest edition, the Rush, is no exception. Its high-energy core drives the performance of this golf ball, which generates faster ball speeds with every club. When testing, we found that this ball delivered high-quality distance straight away with both our drivers and our iron shots into the greens. It ball offers a nice high flight and doesn't feel clicky or loud as you might expect an out-and-out distance ball to feel.

An icosahedral dimple design, comprising 332 dimples in a durable ionomer cover, promises a consistent, powerful ball flight with more than a hint of feel. It is quite firm on the clubface and won't dazzle on approach shots or around the greens, but that isn't this ball's MO. You know what to expect and it produces exactly that - in spades.

Here at Golf Monthly, our highly experienced team of testers play a lot of golf in different conditions throughout the year. While our Digital Editor Neil Tappin heads up golf ball reviews on our site, most of the Golf Monthly team have been working in the golf industry for more years than they care to remember, so have a wealth of experience to offer. Through our rigorous testing procedures, our collective goal is to test every golf ball model on the market as soon as it becomes available to us, putting in the hours in all weathers out on the golf course, the practice ground, the short-game area, the practice bunker and the putting green.

We want to get an idea of how each ball performs in all areas of the game so we can tell you what its strengths and weaknesses are, allowing you to make an informed choice about your next golf ball purchase. Whenever possible, we will also seek to acquire launch monitor data for a more detailed analysis of each ball model's performance. Specifically, when it comes to high-distance golf balls, we put each ball through its paces on the range and out on the course. We try and assess the difference between these golf balls compared to other types golf balls on the market, with a view to ensuring that these balls can provide great value and have as many performance-enhancing features as possible.

Perhaps the most technical piece of equipment you'll find in your bag is the golf ball. Brands are innovating all the time to see how they can make their golf balls carry further, spin more and help the modern-day golfer shoot lower cards. That means there are a lot of things to consider when purchasing your next box of golf balls and that can sometimes be quite overwhelming. To help you purchase the best golf ball for your game, we've set out a few points below that you should bear in mind when you head down to your local golf shop.

1. Soft or firm?

The best premium golf balls come in alternative versions that spin slightly less for players who prefer a firmer feel or more control off the tee. We recommend you try both kinds of feel from various distances to find your preferred feel.

2. Cover material

Urethane-covered balls offer the best spin control and feel but do cost more. Experiment with each to see if you notice enough of a difference to justify the extra cost, or whether the best mid-price golf balls might be an option.

3. Long game or short game?

Which aspect of the game is most important to you? Are you looking for maximum distance or something that allows your short game to shine around the greens? If you put a real premium on feel, perhaps our best soft feel golf balls guide might be a good next step.

4. Color/visuals

Are you very much a classic white ball player, or someone open to playing something a little different as the golf ball world evolves? There's more choice than ever in this regard and if you're planning on outdriving the course, there's a strong chance that you will want your golf ball to have a bit of color on it, to help you see where it falls on the course. Check out our best yellow golf balls guide for some flashier options.

5. Price

No buying guide would be complete without at least mentioning price. Thankfully most brands make models at different price points and you can rest assured there is decent performance on offer across the price spectrum. You'll find many of those on our best value golf balls guide. It is also worth considering that personalized balls cost a little more money.

For more advice on buying golf balls, we have a ton of information on our website that will help you make the right choice for you. Why not check out our specific guides to the best TaylorMade golf balls, best Titleist golf balls and best Callaway golf balls.

The best golf ball for distance will be the design specifically designed o fly the furthest. We traditionally see this golf ball offer a firm feel and simple design in terms of being a two, or three-piece construction. It will also have some kind of aerodynamic dimple design to help the golf ball stay in the air longer, and spin less as well.

Depending on who it is, Tour pros can strike the golf ball an average of 295 yards with their driver. But some can hit the ball even further, with Rory McIlroy and Cameron Champ leading the way on the PGA Tour this season with long drives of 321 yards each!

Yes distance golf balls fly further because they have been designed as such with two or three-piece constructions, firm feel, low spin and aerodynamic dimple designs. Premium golf balls like the Titleist Pro V1, have been designed to offer feel and control, as well as a degree of distance so will not fly as far as a Srixon Distance golf ball because the latter has been created purely for distance.

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A golfer for most of his life, Sam is a Senior Staff Writer for Golf Monthly.

Working with golf gear and equipment over the last six years, Sam has quickly built outstanding knowledge and expertise on golf products ranging from drivers, to balls, to shoes.

He combines this knowledge with a passion for helping golfers get the best gear for them, and as such Sam manages a team of writers that look to deliver the most accurate and informative reviews and buying advice. This is so the reader can find exactly what they are looking for.

Sam now spends most of his time testing and looking after golf gear content for the website, whilst he is also responsible for all content related to golf apparel.

He also oversees all Tour player content as well so if you need to know what clubs Tiger or Rory has in play, Sam is the person to ask.

Unfortunately, Sam is not a member of any club at the moment but regularly gets out on the golf course to keep up the facade of having a handicap of five.

Sam's What's In The Bag:

Driver: Titleist TS3 (9 degrees)

Fairway Wood: Callaway Paradym (15 degrees), Nike Covert Tour 2.0 (19 degrees)

Irons (4-PW): Titleist AP2

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM7 54˚, 58˚

Putter: Scotty Cameron Phantom X 5.5

Ball: Srixon Z-Star Diamond

Shoes: G/FORE Gallivanter/Nike Air Zoom Infinity NEXT%/Cuater The Ringer/adidas Tour 360 22

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