Callaway Ai Smoke Max D vs TaylorMade Qi4D Max
Both the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D and TaylorMade Qi4D Max target similar golfers, but they take different approaches to performance. The Callaway Ai Smoke Max D from Callaway debuted in 2024, while TaylorMade's TaylorMade Qi4D Max is brand new for 2026. We put both through our scoring system to see which one delivers more where it counts.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
The TaylorMade Qi4D Max edges the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D 9.7 to 9.5 in forgiveness, but the 0.2-point gap is virtually identical in practice. You won't feel a real-world difference between these two here. TaylorMade Qi4D Max's 9,600 MOI is among the highest available.
Distance
A negligible difference in distance: the TaylorMade Qi4D Max scores 8.9/10 vs 8.4/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. The 0.5-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Key tech like Carbon Twist Face 2.0 drives the TaylorMade Qi4D Max's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The TaylorMade Qi4D Max holds a modest edge in feel & sound at 8.6/10 vs the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D's 8/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if feel & sound ranks high on your priority list. The TaylorMade Qi4D Max's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
A clear advantage for the TaylorMade Qi4D Max in adjustability: 8.8/10 vs 7.4/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. The 1.4-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. The TaylorMade Qi4D Max offers 4-degree loft sleeve for fine-tuning.
Value
A negligible difference in value: the TaylorMade Qi4D Max scores 7.4/10 vs 7/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. At $600, the TaylorMade Qi4D Max is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Callaway Ai Smoke Max D | TaylorMade Qi4D Max |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $600 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 9300 | 9600 |
| Key Tech | Ai Smart Face, Forged Carbon Composite, Triaxial Carbon Crown | Carbon Twist Face 2.0, Infinity Carbon Chassis 2.0, Qi Core 2.0 |
Which Should You Buy?
If you want maximum forgiveness
Go with the TaylorMade Qi4D Max. Its 9.7/10 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 TaylorMade Qi4D Max has the edge at 8.9/10 vs 8.4/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The TaylorMade Qi4D Max at $600 scores 7.4/10 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 Qi4D Max?
The TaylorMade Qi4D Max scores higher overall at 8.8/10 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 TaylorMade Qi4D Max?
The TaylorMade Qi4D Max is more forgiving, scoring 9.7/10 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 TaylorMade Qi4D Max?
The TaylorMade Qi4D Max ($600) scores 7.4/10 for value vs 7/10 for the Callaway Ai Smoke Max D ($599). Despite the price, it delivers strong performance per dollar.