Callaway Ai Smoke Max D vs TaylorMade Qi35
The Callaway Ai Smoke Max D and TaylorMade Qi35 represent two distinct takes on driver design. Callaway's offering falls slightly behind with a 8.2/10 overall vs 8.8/10 for TaylorMade's entry. But overall scores don't tell the full story — the real differences show up in the category-by-category breakdown below.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
A negligible difference in forgiveness: the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D scores 9.5/10 vs 9/10 for the TaylorMade Qi35. The 0.5-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 TaylorMade Qi35 holds a modest edge in distance at 9.3/10 vs the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 8.4/10. A 0.9-point advantage that's slight but could matter if distance ranks high on your priority list. Key tech like Infinity Carbon Chassis drives the TaylorMade Qi35's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The TaylorMade Qi35 holds a modest edge in feel & sound at 8.8/10 vs the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 8/10. A 0.8-point advantage that's slight but could matter if feel & sound ranks high on your priority list. The TaylorMade Qi35's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
A clear advantage for the TaylorMade Qi35 in adjustability: 9.2/10 vs 7.4/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. The 1.8-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. The TaylorMade Qi35 offers 4-degree loft sleeve for fine-tuning.
Value
The TaylorMade Qi35 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 TaylorMade Qi35 is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Callaway Ai Smoke Max D | TaylorMade Qi35 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2025 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 8°, 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 9300 | 9100 |
| Key Tech | Ai Smart Face, Forged Carbon Composite, Triaxial Carbon Crown | Infinity Carbon Chassis, 60-layer Carbon Twist Face, Qi Core |
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 TaylorMade Qi35's 9/10.
If you want maximum distance
The TaylorMade Qi35 has the edge at 9.3/10 vs 8.4/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The TaylorMade Qi35 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 TaylorMade Qi35?
The TaylorMade Qi35 scores higher overall at 8.8/10 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 TaylorMade Qi35?
The Callaway Ai Smoke Max D is more forgiving, scoring 9.5/10 compared to 9/10 for the TaylorMade Qi35. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Callaway Ai Smoke Max D or TaylorMade Qi35?
The TaylorMade Qi35 ($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.