Callaway Ai Smoke Max D vs Ping G430 Max
Both the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D and Ping G430 Max target similar golfers, but they take different approaches to performance. The Callaway Ai Smoke Max D from Callaway debuted in 2024, while Ping's Ping G430 Max launched in 2024. We put both through our scoring system to see which one delivers more where it counts.
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 Ping G430 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
The Ping G430 Max holds a modest edge in distance at 9/10 vs the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 8.4/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if distance ranks high on your priority list. Key tech like Carbonfly Wrap drives the Ping G430 Max's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
A negligible difference in feel & sound: the Ping G430 Max scores 8.5/10 vs 8/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. The 0.5-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. The Ping G430 Max's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
A clear advantage for the Ping G430 Max in adjustability: 9/10 vs 7.4/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. The 1.6-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. The Ping G430 Max offers Trajectory Tuning 2.0 hosel (8 positions) for fine-tuning.
Value
The Ping G430 Max holds a modest edge in value at 7.6/10 vs the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 7/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if value ranks high on your priority list. At $549, the Ping G430 Max is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Callaway Ai Smoke Max D | Ping G430 Max |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $549 |
| Year | 2024 | 2024 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 9300 | 9200 |
| Key Tech | Ai Smart Face, Forged Carbon Composite, Triaxial Carbon Crown | Carbonfly Wrap, Spinsistency Face Technology, Movable Tungsten Back Weight |
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 Ping G430 Max's 9.2/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Ping G430 Max has the edge at 9/10 vs 8.4/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The Ping G430 Max at $549 scores 7.6/10 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 Ping G430 Max?
The Ping G430 Max scores higher overall at 8.7/10 vs 8.2/10. It wins on distance, feel and sound, adjustability, value. The Callaway Ai Smoke Max D is better for forgiveness. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D more forgiving than the Ping G430 Max?
The Callaway Ai Smoke Max D is more forgiving, scoring 9.5/10 compared to 9.2/10 for the Ping G430 Max. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Callaway Ai Smoke Max D or Ping G430 Max?
The Ping G430 Max ($549) scores 7.6/10 for value vs 7/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.