5 Best Golf Balls For Beginners (A Coach’s Guide)
By Ollie Neave | August 29, 2024
Starting out in golf can be both thrilling and challenging.
As a coach, I’ve seen many beginners struggle, often due to using the wrong golf ball. The right ball can offer forgiveness, control, and just the right feel to help you enjoy the game from the get-go.
In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for golf balls that can help beginners find their swing and stay on the fairway.
Best Overall
Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls
Soft, consistent feel
Good balance of distance and control
Reliable accuracy
Best For Affordability
Callaway Warbird
Excellent distance off the tee
Great value for the price
Forgiving and easy to hit
Top-Tier Performance
Taylormade Tour Response
Thick responsive stripe for easy visibility
Excellent for putting and short game control
Available in various colors
5 Golf Balls That Are Perfect For Beginners
1. Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls
Best Overall
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Polyurethane
Item Weight (lbs)
1
Model Year
2024
Warranty
1 Year
Pros
Soft, consistent feel
Good balance of distance and control
Reliable accuracy
Available as used for affordable practice
Cons
Newer models are a bit pricier
If you’re looking for a golf ball that gives you a smooth, consistent experience on the course, the Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls are a fantastic option.
These little beauties are all about delivering that soft, satisfying feel when you strike the ball, making them perfect for beginners who want to develop confidence in their game.
What I love about the TruFeel is its balanced performance. You get solid distance off the tee and a soft touch around the greens, which helps you maintain control even as you’re still fine-tuning your swing.
Plus, they’re known for their reliable accuracy, so you’ll spend less time hunting for balls in the rough—always a bonus when you’re starting out.
Now, here’s a pro tip: these balls are also widely available in the previous generation as used, which can be a great, budget-friendly option for practicing.
Still, I do recommend picking up a new box to really experience the “TruFeel” (pun fully intended) of what these balls can do. There’s nothing quite like the real deal when you’re figuring out what works best for your game.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$24.99
Price Per Ball
$2.08
Colors Available
White
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience WIth the Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls
I find that you really can’t go wrong with Titleist. These are perfect recreation golfers’ balls at a very good price, so even if you lose a couple, you won’t be too heartbroken.
2. Callaway Warbird
Best For Affordability
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Rubber
Item Weight (lbs)
1.4
Model Year
2023
Warranty
2 Years
Pros
Excellent distance off the tee
Great value for the price
Forgiving and easy to hit
Cons
Low spin, especially around the greens
Not ideal for golfers seeking more control
When it comes to power and performance at an affordable price, the Callaway Warbird Golf Balls are like the muscle cars of the golf world—built for speed and distance.
Designed with a high-energy core and HEX Aerodynamics, these balls are engineered to take off like a rocket, making them perfect for golfers who want to maximize their distance off the tee without emptying their wallets.
The Warbird’s larger core and optimized dimple pattern work together to reduce drag, helping you achieve that long, straight drive we all crave.
This combination makes the Warbird particularly suitable for beginners still developing consistency in their swing, as it provides plenty of forgiveness and helps keep the ball on track even if your shot isn’t perfectly struck.
However, if you’re someone who likes to work the ball with a bit more spin, you might find the Warbird a bit lacking in that department.
Compared to the Titleist TruFeel, which offers a softer feel and better spin control, the Warbird is all about raw power and distance—ideal for those who prioritize distance over finesse.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$19.99
Price Per Ball
$1.67
Colors Available
White
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the Callaway Warbird
I’ve had the pleasure of using the Callaway Warbird on a few occasions, and let me tell you, these balls don’t disappoint when it comes to distance. They’re strong off the tee and provide a satisfying feel, even if they don’t offer much in the way of spin control.
The Warbird is a solid choice for beginners looking for a straightforward, no-nonsense ball that delivers impressive distance and helps build confidence on the course.
3. Taylormade Tour Response
Top-Tier Performance
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
100% CAST URETHANE 3-piece
Item Weight (lbs)
1
Model Year
2022
Warranty
2 Years
Pros
Thick responsive stripe for easy visibility
Excellent for putting and short game control
Available in various colors
Ideal for beginners and seniors
Cons
More expensive than other beginner balls
Alignment lines may fade over time
For beginner golfers looking for top-tier performance without the hefty price tag, the TaylorMade Tour Response Golf Balls are a fantastic choice.
These balls offer a soft, premium feel, making them exceptionally forgiving—perfect for those who are still honing their swing.
The urethane cover provides excellent spin control, which is particularly helpful as you start to develop your short game.
Plus, these balls deliver impressive distance off the tee, giving you the extra yards that can make a big difference on the course.
Compared to the Callaway Warbirds, which prioritize distance and power, the TaylorMade Tour Response offers a more balanced performance, giving you a bit more control and feel, especially around the greens.
While they are a bit pricier than other beginner options, the quality you get is well worth it. These balls offer great value as you progress in your game.
They also come in a variety of colors, allowing you to add a touch of personal style to your play. I also recommend the TaylorMade Tour Response for senior golfers looking to elevate their game, especially if you have a low to medium swing speed.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$42.99
Price Per Ball
$3.58
Colors Available
8+
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With TaylorMade Tour Response Golf Balls
I frequently suggest the TaylorMade Tour Response to both beginners and senior golfers aiming to improve their performance. Their cool design and easy-to-see response stripe make them worth the splurge.
4. Vice Pro Plus Limited Edition
Novelty Experience
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Polyurethane
Item Weight (lbs)
1
Model Year
–
Warranty
1 Year
Pros
Excellent distance with good control
Unique, fun designs
Forgiving for a four-piece ball
Soft feel with reliable spin
Cons
Higher price point for beginners
Limited edition, so availability may vary
Vice Pro plus Limited edition (black). Why? Your new to golf. Have some fun with it!! Nice overall performance and great feel around the greens. Bit of a novelty…
If you’re looking to add a little flair to your game while still getting great performance, the Vice Pro Plus Limited Edition Golf Balls are worth a look.
These balls might be a bit of a novelty item, but let’s be honest—golf is supposed to be fun, so why not enjoy it with some unique gear?
The Vice Pro Plus is a four-piece ball designed for advanced performance, but don’t let that intimidate you as a beginner. Despite their high-performance design, these balls offer a surprising level of forgiveness, making them a solid choice even if you’re still working on your swing.
The dual casing allows for impressive distance while maintaining control, especially on your approach shots.
Compared to the Titleist TruFeel, which are known for their exceptionally soft feel and spin control, the Vice Pro Plus leans more toward distance and a firmer feel.
However, both balls provide solid control around the greens, with the Vice Pro Plus offering a bit more pop off the tee. Plus, the limited edition designs add a bit of personality to your game, making every round just a little more golden.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$37.78
Price Per Ball
$3.15
Colors Available
Gold
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With Vice Pro Plus Limited Edition Golf Balls
I recommend the Vice Pro Plus Limited Edition to beginners who want to explore something different without sacrificing quality. While these balls are definitely on the premium end, they’re a great way to enjoy the game with a bit of added flair.
5. Precept Laddie
Budget-Friendly
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Synthetic
Item Weight (lbs)
2.6
Model Year
2017
Warranty
1 Year
Pros
Soft feel without sacrificing distance
Good control around the greens
Durable and affordable at around $1 per ball
Cons
More focused on control than pure distance
If you’re a beginner looking for a budget-friendly golf ball that balances distance with a softer feel, the Precept 2017 Laddie Extreme Golf Balls are a fantastic choice by a company that’s been around forever.
Priced at around $1 per ball, these are some of my favorite cheap golf balls that don’t compromise on performance. Plus, I can afford to hit one (or three) into the water!
What makes the Laddie Extreme particularly good for beginners is its muscle-fiber core, which provides that extra pop off the tee without feeling too firm. This means you get the distance you need while enjoying a smoother, softer feel when you make contact—perfect for those still refining their swing.
Compared to the Callaway Warbirds, which are known for their emphasis on distance and power, the Laddie Extreme offers a bit more softness and control, especially in the short game.
While the Warbirds are great for maximizing distance, the Laddie Extreme gives you a more balanced experience, offering both distance and a gentler touch around the greens.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
24
Price Per Package
$24.97
Price Per Ball
$1.04
Colors Available
White
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the Precept 2017 Laddie Extreme Golf Balls
I’ve found the Laddie Extreme to be a great option for beginners who want a forgiving ball that’s easy on the wallet. It delivers a solid combination of distance and control, making it versatile enough for all parts of your game. Plus, at around $1 per ball, it’s hard to beat the value these offer.
Best Golf Balls For Beginners Compared
Best Overall
Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls
Material + Construction: Polyurethane
Item Weight (lbs): 1
Model Year: 2024
Warranty: 1 Year
Best For Affordability
Callaway Warbird
Material + Construction: Rubber
Item Weight (lbs): 1.4
Model Year: 2023
Warranty: 2 Years
Top-Tier Performance
Taylormade Tour Response
Material + Construction: 100% CAST URETHANE 3-piece
Item Weight (lbs): 1
Model Year: 2022
Warranty: 2 Years
Novelty Experience
Vice Pro Plus Limited Edition
Material + Construction: Polyurethane
Item Weight (lbs): 1
Model Year: –
Warranty: 1 Year
Budget-Friendly
Precept Laddie
Material + Construction: Synthetic
Item Weight (lbs): 2.6
Model Year: 2017
Warranty: 1 Year
How I Tested Golf Balls For Beginners
Distance
When it comes to beginners, distance is often the first thing on their mind—after all, who doesn’t love watching their ball soar down the fairway?
To test for distance, I took each ball out to the range and hit a series of drives, keeping my swing speed consistent. I compared how far each ball carried and how much roll it had after landing.
The Callaway Warbirds stood out for sheer distance, while the Precept Laddie Extreme offered a nice balance of distance with a softer feel.
Accuracy
Accuracy is crucial for beginners looking to keep their shots on the fairway. To assess this, I monitored how straight each ball flew and how much it curved off target on mis-hits.
I found the TaylorMade Tour Response and Vice Pro Plus Limited Edition to be particularly strong in this area, providing reliable accuracy that helps keep beginners out of the rough.
The Precept Laddie Extreme also showed good consistency, making it easier for new golfers to keep their shots on line.
Spin Rate
Spin rate can be a game-changer, especially around the greens. I tested spin by hitting a variety of approach shots and observing how each ball reacted on landing.
The TaylorMade Tour Response delivered impressive spin control, giving beginners the confidence to attack the pin.
The Vice Pro Plus Limited Edition also performed well, offering just enough spin to allow for controlled shots without being overly demanding. The Precept Laddie Extreme provided a balanced spin rate that’s forgiving enough for those still mastering their short game.
Durability
Durability is key, especially if you’re not keen on buying new balls every few rounds.
I put each ball through the paces, hitting them from different lies and observing how well they held up. The Callaway Warbirds and Precept Laddie Extreme both showed strong durability, handling rough play without scuffing or cutting too easily.
The Vice Pro Plus Limited Edition, while a bit more premium, also held up well, making them a fun and reliable choice for beginners who want their balls to last.
Feel
Feel is often overlooked, but it’s vital for building confidence, especially in your short game.
I paid close attention to how each ball felt off the clubface during drives, chips, and putts. The Precept Laddie Extreme offered a soft, forgiving feel that’s perfect for beginners, while the TaylorMade Tour Response provided a premium, responsive touch around the greens.
The Vice Pro Plus Limited Edition combined a firm feel with good control, adding a bit of fun to each shot without compromising on performance.
How To Pick The Best Golf Ball As A Newbie
What Is Your Swing Speed? (Low, Moderate, or High)
Understanding your swing speed is the first step in choosing the right golf ball.
If you have a low to moderate swing speed, which is common among beginners, look for low-compression balls that help maximize distance and provide a softer feel.
Balls like the Precept Laddie Extreme are designed to give you that extra boost off the tee, even with a slower swing. If your swing speed is higher, you might want a ball that offers more control, like the TaylorMade Tour Response.
Beef’s Takeaways:
To know your swing speed, you can use a launch monitor at a golf shop or driving range, visit a golf retailer with swing speed monitors, or estimate based on your driving distance (e.g., under 200 yards = under 85 mph). You can also get a lesson with a pro or use a swing speed radar device at home. Knowing your speed helps in choosing the right golf ball.
Consider the Ball’s Construction (Two-Piece, Three-Piece, or Four/Five-Piece Balls)
For beginners, two-piece balls are usually the best choice. They’re designed for distance and durability, making them more forgiving and easier to control.
The Callaway Warbirds are a great example, offering a solid blend of power and performance.
As you progress, you might explore three-piece or even four-piece balls, like the Vice Pro Plus Limited Edition, which offer more spin and control for a developing short game.
Budget
Starting out, you don’t need to break the bank on golf balls. Focus on affordable options like the Precept Laddie Extreme, which offers great performance at around $1 per ball. These budget-friendly choices allow you to get plenty of practice without worrying about losing a costly ball. All beginners, and even seasoned pros like me, lose balls.
Remember, the best ball for you is one that fits both your game and your wallet.
Alignment
Alignment aids on golf balls can make a big difference in your setup, especially as you work on consistency. Balls like the TaylorMade Tour Response come with clear, visible lines that help you align your putts and drives more accurately.
For beginners, this can be a simple yet effective way to improve your game by ensuring you’re aiming correctly every time.
Test Different Balls
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment. The best way to find the right golf ball is to test a few different options on the course.
Try out the Callaway Warbirds for distance, the Precept Laddie Extreme for a soft feel, and the TaylorMade Tour Response for a balance of control and performance.
Always practice your short game with the balls you intend to use on the course, so you can get a true feel for how they perform in different situations.
FAQs
How many golf balls do I need as a beginner?
As a beginner, it’s wise to carry at least 12 golf balls per round. Expect to lose a few, especially when you’re starting out, so having extras ensures you won’t run out during your game.
What gold ball brand is the best?
Titleist golf balls are know as the top brand worldwide, and they get my vote too.
What golf balls are the easiest to find?
Brightly colored golf balls, like neon yellow, orange, or green, are the easiest to find, especially in rough or low-light conditions. High-visibility balls like the Srixon Soft Feel in Tour Yellow are great options.
Should beginners buy used balls?
Yes, beginner golfers can benefit from buying used balls, especially for practice. They’re a cost-effective way to get plenty of swings in without worrying about losing pricey new balls. However, I also recommend trying out several types of new balls as well. It’s important to get a feel for different options to understand what suits your game best.
Which Is Best?
To wrap things up, picking the right golf ball can really help you enjoy the game as a beginner.
You want something that’s forgiving, gives you decent distance, and doesn’t break the bank.
After trying out a bunch of options, I’d say the Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls are a solid choice for newbies.
They’ve got a nice soft feel, reliable accuracy, and they’ll help you keep those shots on track while you’re still finding your swing. Plus, they make the game just a bit more fun, and that’s what it’s all about!
Best Overall
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Polyurethane
Item Weight (lbs)
1
Model Year
2024
Warranty
1 Year