5 Best Golf Balls for Mid Handicappers (2024 Reviews)
Finding the right golf ball as a mid-handicapper can feel like searching for the perfect club—there are plenty of options, but you need something that complements your game and helps you take it to the next level.
As a coach, I’ve seen firsthand how the right ball can make a difference, giving you that extra bit of control, distance, and confidence.
In this guide, I’ll break down my top picks for mid-handicappers, highlighting what makes each one stand out and how it can help you improve your consistency on the course. Let’s dive in and find the ball that’s just right for you.
Beef’s Takeaways:
A mid-handicapper is a golfer with a handicap typically ranging from 10 to 20.
You’re solid on the course, with consistent shots and a good grasp of the game, but there’s still room to shave off a few strokes and refine your skills.
It’s that sweet spot where you’re better than a beginner but not quite breaking par regularly.
Best Overall
Vice Pro Plus
Urethane cover provides excellent feel and control
Versatile performance across different aspects of the game
Great value for a premium-like ball
Best For Consistency
Callaway Supersoft
Soft feel with excellent distance for moderate swing speeds
Very forgiving, making it ideal for mid-handicappers
Consistent performance across the board
Best Value for Money
Srixon Q Star Tour 3
Offers premium performance at a lower price point
Great balance of distance and control
Consistent feel across different types of shots
5 Best Golf Balls for Mid Handicappers
1. Vice Pro Plus
Best Overall
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Urethane
Item Weight (lbs)
1
Model Year
2020
Warranty
1 Year
Pros
Urethane cover provides excellent feel and control
Versatile performance across different aspects of the game
Great value for a premium-like ball
Cons
Less distance than some premium balls
The Vice Pro Plus stands out as my top contender for mid-handicappers, mainly due to its urethane cover, which offers that premium feel typically reserved for higher-end balls.
What makes this ball appealing is its ability to deliver solid performance across various aspects of the game—whether you’re off the tee or around the greens.
It’s a versatile option that combines a great feel with reliable control, making it a go-to choice for those who want to elevate their game without splurging on a top-tier ball.
The Vice Pro Plus is especially suited for players who want a ball that can handle both distance and precision.
Its construction allows for a good balance between long drives and spin on shorter shots, which is crucial for mid-handicappers looking to shave a few strokes off their game with practice.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$34.68
Price Per Ball
$2.88
Colors Available
3
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the Vice Pro Plus
I’ve personally found the Vice Pro Plus to be a game-changer for mid-handicappers. The urethane cover really shines when it comes to feel and control, particularly in the short game where precision is key.
What impresses me most is its versatility—whether I’m driving off the tee or approaching the green, this ball consistently delivers the performance I need.
2. Callaway Supersoft
Best For Consistency
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Polyurethane (PU) Rubber
Item Weight (lbs)
1.4
Model Year
2023
Warranty
2 Years
Pros
Soft feel with excellent distance for moderate swing speeds
Very forgiving, making it ideal for mid-handicappers
Consistent performance across the board
More than a dozen color options
Longest warranty (2 years)
Cons
Not as much spin or control as higher-end balls
May not suit players with higher swing speeds
The Callaway Supersoft is a ball that consistently makes it onto a lot of “best of” lists, and for good reason.
It ticks so many boxes, especially for mid-handicappers who don’t want to sacrifice performance for the sake of a softer feel.
This ball is designed to offer a great combination of distance and forgiveness, making it ideal for those who have a more moderate swing speed.
If you’re a mid-handicapper who fits that description, the Supersoft is a ball that’s hard to overlook.
What I particularly like about the Supersoft is how it delivers solid performance without being too demanding on your swing.
It’s not going to give you the same high spin rates as some premium balls, but it more than makes up for that with its consistent flight and excellent feel.
If you’re not swinging at high speeds, this ball could be a perfect match.
Compared to the Vice Pro Plus, the Callaway Supersoft is a bit more forgiving and is better suited for those with moderate swing speeds.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$24.97
Price Per Ball
$2.08
Colors Available
15+
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the Callaway Supersoft
The Callaway Supersoft is one of those balls I often recommend, particularly for mid-handicappers looking for a reliable performer that doesn’t require a super fast swing.
For a regular teen handicapper, this ball is a great option that balances forgiveness with performance.
3. Srixon Q Star Tour 3
Best Value for Money
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Urethane
Item Weight (lbs)
1.4
Model Year
2020
Warranty
1 Year
Pros
Offers premium performance at a lower price point
Great balance of distance and control
Consistent feel across different types of shots
Cons
May not offer as much spin as the Vice Pro Plus on greenside shots
Slightly firmer feel compared to the Callaway Supersoft
The Srixon Q Star brings us into premium ball territory, but without that pesky price tag that often comes with top-end models.
This ball is designed to offer a mix of distance, control, and feel, making it a strong contender for mid-handicappers who want to elevate their game without breaking the bank.
The Q Star is all about balance—it delivers solid distance off the tee while still providing enough spin and control for those crucial shots around the green.
It’s a versatile ball that performs well in various aspects of the game, making it a great choice if you’re looking for something that can handle everything from long drives to delicate chips.
When compared to the Vice Pro Plus or Callaway Supersoft, the Srixon Q Star offers a bit more of that premium feel, especially in terms of control and spin.
While the Supersoft is softer and more forgiving, the Q Star edges it out in terms of precision.
On the other hand, the Vice Pro Plus might offer slightly more greenside spin, but the Q Star holds its own with a well-rounded performance that suits a wide range of mid-handicappers.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$39.95
Price Per Ball
$3.33
Colors Available
White + Yellow
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the Srixon Q Star
In my experience, the Srixon Q Star is a fantastic option for those who want premium performance without the premium price.
It delivers a great balance of distance and control, which is exactly what I look for when recommending a ball to mid-handicappers.
4. Kirkland Signature Urethane 3 Piece
Best Budget Quality
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Urethane
Item Weight (lbs)
1.4
Model Year
2023
Warranty
–
Pros
Premium urethane feel at a budget price
Excellent spin and control around the greens
Great value for mid-handicappers
Cons
Not as forgiving as softer balls like the Callaway Supersoft
May not offer the same distance as some higher-end balls
The Kirkland Signature Urethane 3 Piece had to make my list—it’s the OG budget urethane ball that delivers surprising quality for the price.
If you’re a mid-handicapper looking for a ball that feels like the ones the pros use, but without the stress of losing them, this one’s for you.
The Kirkland Urethane 3 Piece offers great feel around the greens, making it a fantastic option if you’re working on your short game while still getting solid performance off the tee.
This ball is all about giving you that premium urethane experience without the premium price tag.
It’s a solid performer in all areas, especially when it comes to feel and control on approach shots and around the greens.
Compared to the Callaway Supersoft, the Kirkland Urethane 3 Piece offers more spin and control, especially on shorter shots, but might not be as forgiving for players with slower swing speeds.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$23.30
Price Per Ball
$1.94
Colors Available
White
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the Kirkland Signature Urethane 3 Piece
The first time I teed up the Kirkland Urethane 3 Piece, I didn’t expect much, but it quickly won me over. The feel around the greens was soft and responsive, just like the pricier balls.
I remember hitting a few chip shots that stuck close to the pin, making me feel like I was playing with a premium ball.
And the best part? I didn’t stress about losing one because they’re so affordable. For mid-handicappers, it’s a ball that delivers quality without the worry.
5. TaylorMade Tour Response
Best Ball Speed
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Plastic
Item Weight (lbs)
1
Model Year
2022
Warranty
2 Years
Pros
Ideal for higher ball speeds
Cool color alignment design for easier setup
Versatile enough for beginners as well
2 year warranty
Cons
Slightly more expensive than budget options like the Kirkland
The TaylorMade Tour Response is a standout for mid-handicappers, especially those who are starting to see their scores drop closer to single figures.
This ball really shines if you have a higher ball speed, offering the kind of performance that can help you take that next step in your game.
One of the features I find particularly cool is the color alignment design—it’s a nice touch for those of us who like a bit of visual aid when lining up putts or drives.
What’s interesting about the Tour Response is that while it’s great for mid-handicappers, it’s also a solid option for beginners who are just getting the hang of the game.
It’s versatile enough to cater to a range of skill levels, which is why I often recommend it to newer players looking to improve quickly.
Compared to the Kirkland balls, the TaylorMade Tour Response offers a bit more in terms of technology and design, especially if you’re swinging with higher speeds.
The Kirkland ball is fantastic for its value and feel around the greens, but the Tour Response edges it out when it comes to performance for those with faster swings and a need for more alignment assistance.
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 the TaylorMade Tour Response
I’ve recommended the TaylorMade Tour Response to quite a few mid-handicappers who are pushing toward single digits, and it consistently delivers.
Beef’s Takeaways:
It’s crucial to play the right ball as a mid-handicapper if you’re serious about lowering your score and reaching an elite level.
This is my advice for both older and younger golfers, each at different stages of their golfing journey. So, choose wisely and test different balls to find the one that suits your game best.
Comparing Balls for Mid Handicap Golfers
Best Overall
Vice Pro Plus
Material + Construction: Urethane
Item Weight (lbs): 1
Model Year: 2020
Warranty: 1 Year
Best For Consistency
Callaway Supersoft
Material + Construction: Polyurethane (PU) Rubber
Item Weight (lbs): 1.4
Model Year: 2023
Warranty: 2 Years
Best Value for Money
Srixon Q Star Tour 3
Material + Construction: Urethane
Item Weight (lbs): 1.4
Model Year: 2020
Warranty: 1 Year
Best Budget Quality
Kirkland Signature Urethane 3 Piece
Material + Construction: Urethane
Item Weight (lbs): 1.4
Model Year: 2023
Warranty: –
Best Ball Speed
TaylorMade Tour Response
Material + Construction: Plastic
Item Weight (lbs): 1
Model Year: 2022
Warranty: 2 Years
How I Tested & Rank Golf Balls
Measure Distance
When it comes to measuring distance, I took each ball out for a spin on the driving range, keeping my swing speed consistent to see how far each one would fly.
The Vice Pro Plus really stood out here, offering impressive distance without sacrificing control.
But don’t overlook the TaylorMade Tour Response—it’s designed for those of you with higher swing speeds who want to squeeze every last yard out of your drives.
I always say, distance is great, but it’s even better when you know you can rely on it round after round.
Accuracy
Accuracy is key for mid-handicappers trying to lower their scores, so I paid close attention to how each ball performed when it came to keeping shots on line.
The Srixon Q Star was a strong performer, consistently hitting fairways and greens, which is crucial when you’re trying to avoid those costly misses.
Meanwhile, the Kirkland Urethane 3 Piece was surprisingly reliable, especially considering its price.
I’ve seen firsthand how a ball that stays true to its line can make a huge difference in your confidence and score.
Spin Rate
Spin rate can make or break your short game, so I spent a lot of time testing how these balls reacted on approach shots and around the greens.
The Vice Pro Plus offers just the right amount of spin, allowing you to stop the ball quickly on the greens.
On the other hand, the Callaway Supersoft provides a bit less spin, which can be beneficial if you’re prone to over-spinning the ball.
I’ve noticed that finding the right spin rate is crucial for mid-handicappers as it helps in controlling those all-important approach shots.
Price
Let’s be real—price matters. I tested these balls with an eye on value, because getting the most bang for your buck is always a good thing.
The Kirkland Urethane 3 Piece is a standout budget option here, delivering premium performance without the premium price tag.
Here is how the lineup looks when comparing price per ball:
Vice Pro Plus
$2.88
Callaway Supersoft
$2.08
Srixon Q Star
$3.33
Kirkland Signature
$1.94
TaylorMade Tour Response
$3.58
Durability
Durability is something I never overlook.
I put each ball through the wringer—literally—by using them across multiple rounds to see how well they held up.
The Srixon Q Star impressed me with its ability to maintain performance even after a few rough rounds.
Meanwhile, the Callaway Supersoft held up well, but it’s a bit softer, so it might show wear slightly sooner.
For me, a durable ball is one you can rely on to perform consistently, without worrying about scuffs and cuts after every shot.
Evaluate Forgiveness
Finally, I evaluated how forgiving each ball was on those less-than-perfect shots (because let’s be honest, we all have them—even if we pretend we don’t).
The Callaway Supersoft is a champ here, offering a soft feel that helps cushion the blow of those occasional “what was I thinking?” swings.
The Kirkland Urethane 3 Piece also showed impressive forgiveness, especially for its price—it’s like having a loyal friend who doesn’t judge you for slicing one into the trees.
I’ve seen how a forgiving ball can do wonders for your confidence, letting you focus on the fun of the game rather than sweating the occasional mishit.
After all, golf’s tough enough without your ball making things harder!
How To Pick The Best Golf Balls For Improving Your Round
1. Consider The Ball’s Construction
Two-Piece Balls: Callaway Supersoft
Benefits:
Distance & Forgiveness: Maximizes distance and provides a forgiving feel, ideal for players who prioritize straight, long shots.
Soft Feel: Easier to compress for slower to moderate swing speeds, leading to more distance.
Durability: Simpler construction generally makes the ball more durable, lasting longer during play.
Three Piece Balls: Srixon Q Star, Kirkland Signature Urethane 3 Piece, TaylorMade Tour Response
Benefits:
Balanced Performance: Offers a good mix of distance, control, and spin, making it versatile for various shot types.
Spin & Control: The extra layer enhances spin control, particularly around the greens, without sacrificing distance.
Soft Feel: Provides a softer feel compared to two-piece balls, which many players find beneficial for their short game.
Versatility: Ideal for mid-handicappers who need a ball that can perform well across different aspects of their game.
Four-Piece Balls: Vice Pro Plus
Benefits:
Versatility: Combines multiple layers to deliver exceptional distance, spin, and control.
High Spin & Control: The four-piece design allows for greater spin on approach shots and more control around the greens.
Distance: Excellent off the tee, especially for players with higher swing speeds.
Why Most Balls on This List Are Three-Piece Balls
Three piece balls strike the ideal balance between distance, control, and spin—key factors for mid-handicappers looking to improve their game.
They provide the performance benefits of more complex balls without the complexity and cost of four or five-piece options.
2. Compression Rating
Compression rating plays a big role in how a ball feels and performs, especially for mid-handicappers.
Lower compression balls like the Callaway Supersoft are softer and can help generate more distance for players with slower swing speeds.
Higher compression balls, like the TaylorMade Tour Response, are better suited for those with faster swings, offering more control and accuracy.
I had a student who was using a low-compression ball, but as his swing speed increased, he wasn’t getting the performance he needed. Switching to a higher compression ball made all the difference, giving him the control he was missing.
Here’s how these five balls stack up:
Golf Ball
Compression Rating
Vice Pro Plus
95
Callaway Supersoft
38
Srixon Q Star
72
Kirkland Signature
90
TaylorMade Tour Response
70
3. Budget and Value
Deciding between budget and value can be tricky, especially with so many good options out there.
If you’re trying to figure out where to spend your money, it’s important to consider what you need most in a golf ball and how often you play.
Here’s my list if I’m looking solely at budget and value:
Kirkland Signature Urethane 3 Piece: A budget-friendly option that offers premium feel and control, especially around the greens.
Callaway Supersoft: Ideal for players with slower swing speeds, providing a soft feel and solid performance at a lower cost.
Srixon Q Star & TaylorMade Tour Response: These balls offer a balanced mix of distance, control, and feel, justifying their slightly higher price.
Vice Pro Plus: A premium option designed for higher swing speeds, offering top-tier performance in distance and spin.
How to Decide:
Think about how often you play and what aspects of your game need the most improvement.
If you’re playing a lot and lose a few balls each round, a budget-friendly option like the Kirkland or Supersoft might be the way to go.
If you’re focusing on lowering your scores and want a ball that offers more in terms of performance, investing in the Srixon Q Star, TaylorMade Tour Response, or Vice Pro Plus could be worth the extra cost.
4. Spin and Control
Spin and control are essential for mid-handicappers, especially when you’re approaching the green and need precision.
The Vice Pro Plus excels in this area, offering high spin rates that allow you to stop the ball quickly on the green or shape shots with ease.
For those looking for a more balanced approach, the Srixon Q Star provides a reliable mix of spin and control, making it a solid choice for consistent performance in your short game.
I remember working with a student who was struggling with too much spin—his shots would back up too much on the greens. We made the switch to the Callaway Supersoft, which has a lower spin rate, and suddenly his approach shots were landing and holding exactly where he wanted them.
Each of these balls offers something different in terms of spin and control, so it’s all about finding what best matches your game
5. Balance Between Distance and Control
I like to remind my mid-handicappers that you don’t want to give up too much distance just to get a bit more control, or vice versa.
The Srixon Q Star is a great example of a ball that strikes this balance well. It provides solid distance off the tee while still giving you enough control for approach shots.
Similarly, the TaylorMade Tour Response is designed for players with higher swing speeds, offering a good mix of both distance and control.
FAQs
What is considered a mid handicapper in golf?
A mid handicapper is a golfer with a handicap typically ranging from 10 to 20.
Is there a difference between cheap and expensive golf balls?
Yes, expensive golf balls usually offer better materials, spin control, and feel, while cheap golf balls focus more on durability and distance.
Which Should You Buy?
Choosing the right golf ball as a mid-handicapper can make a significant difference in your game, especially if you’re serious about lowering your scores.
After testing and comparing various options, my top choice is the Vice Pro Plus.
This ball offers exceptional spin, control, and versatility, making it ideal for players who want to take their game to the next level.
If you’re committed to refining your skills and shaving strokes off your scorecard, the Vice Pro Plus is the ball that can help you get there.
Best Overall
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Urethane
Item Weight (lbs)
1
Model Year
2020
Warranty
1 Year