Callaway Ai Smoke Max D vs Cobra Darkspeed MAX
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D and the Cobra Darkspeed MAX. Is the premium worth it? Interestingly, the more affordable Cobra Darkspeed MAX actually matches or beats the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D in several key areas. Here's the full head-to-head breakdown.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
A negligible difference in forgiveness: the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D scores 9.5/10 vs 9.2/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed MAX. The 0.3-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 9,300 MOI provides solid stability.
Distance
Both the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D and Cobra Darkspeed MAX score 8.4/10 for distance — a dead heat. Neither has a meaningful edge here, so this category won't be the deciding factor. Key tech like Ai Smart Face drives the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The Callaway Ai Smoke Max D edges the Cobra Darkspeed MAX 8 to 7.8 in feel & sound, but the 0.2-point gap is virtually identical in practice. You won't feel a real-world difference between these two here. The Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX holds a modest edge in adjustability at 8/10 vs the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 7.4/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if adjustability ranks high on your priority list. The Cobra Darkspeed MAX offers MyFly8 adjustable hosel (8 loft settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
A clear advantage for the Cobra Darkspeed MAX in value: 8.6/10 vs 7/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. The 1.6-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. At $499, the Cobra Darkspeed MAX is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Callaway Ai Smoke Max D | Cobra Darkspeed MAX |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $499 |
| Year | 2024 | 2024 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 9300 | 9100 |
| Key Tech | Ai Smart Face, Forged Carbon Composite, Triaxial Carbon Crown | PWR-Bridge Weighting, AI Designed H.O.T. Face, Carbon Fiber Crown and Sole |
Which Should You Buy?
If you want maximum forgiveness
Go with the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. Its 9.5/10 forgiveness score means more consistent results on off-center strikes compared to the Cobra Darkspeed MAX's 9.2/10.
If you're on a budget
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX at $499 scores 8.6/10 for value — better than the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 7/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Callaway Ai Smoke Max D or Cobra Darkspeed MAX?
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX scores higher overall at 8.5/10 vs 8.2/10. It wins on adjustability, value. The Callaway Ai Smoke Max D is better for forgiveness, feel and sound. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D more forgiving than the Cobra Darkspeed MAX?
The Callaway Ai Smoke Max D is more forgiving, scoring 9.5/10 compared to 9.2/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed MAX. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Callaway Ai Smoke Max D or Cobra Darkspeed MAX?
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX ($499) scores 8.6/10 for value vs 7/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.