Callaway Ai Smoke Max D vs Ping G430 Max 10K
Both the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D and Ping G430 Max 10K 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 10K 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 Ping G430 Max 10K scores 9.8/10 vs 9.5/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. The 0.3-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Ping G430 Max 10K's 10,000 MOI is among the highest available.
Distance
A negligible difference in distance: the Ping G430 Max 10K scores 8.8/10 vs 8.4/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Key tech like Carbonfly Wrap drives the Ping G430 Max 10K's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
A negligible difference in feel & sound: the Ping G430 Max 10K scores 8.4/10 vs 8/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. The Ping G430 Max 10K's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
The Ping G430 Max 10K holds a modest edge in adjustability at 8.4/10 vs the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 7.4/10. A 1.0-point advantage that's slight but could matter if adjustability ranks high on your priority list. The Ping G430 Max 10K offers Trajectory Tuning 2.0 hosel (8 positions) for fine-tuning.
Value
The Ping G430 Max 10K edges the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D 7.2 to 7 in value, but the 0.2-point gap is virtually identical in practice. You won't feel a real-world difference between these two here. At $599, the Ping G430 Max 10K is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Callaway Ai Smoke Max D | Ping G430 Max 10K |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2024 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 9300 | 10000 |
| Key Tech | Ai Smart Face, Forged Carbon Composite, Triaxial Carbon Crown | Carbonfly Wrap, Spinsistency Face Technology, Perimeter Tungsten Weighting |
Which Should You Buy?
If you want maximum forgiveness
Go with the Ping G430 Max 10K. Its 9.8/10 forgiveness score means more consistent results on off-center strikes compared to the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 9.5/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Ping G430 Max 10K has the edge at 8.8/10 vs 8.4/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The Ping G430 Max 10K at $599 scores 7.2/10 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 10K?
The Ping G430 Max 10K scores higher overall at 8.7/10 vs 8.2/10. It wins on forgiveness, distance, feel and sound, adjustability, value. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D more forgiving than the Ping G430 Max 10K?
The Ping G430 Max 10K is more forgiving, scoring 9.8/10 compared to 9.5/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Callaway Ai Smoke Max D or Ping G430 Max 10K?
The Ping G430 Max 10K ($599) scores 7.2/10 for value vs 7/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D ($599). Despite the price, it delivers strong performance per dollar.