Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke vs Cobra Darkspeed X
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke and the Cobra Darkspeed X. Is the premium worth it? The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke does score higher overall, but the Cobra Darkspeed X punches above its price. Here's the full head-to-head breakdown.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke edges the Cobra Darkspeed X 8.8 to 8.6 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. Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke's 8,800 MOI provides solid stability.
Distance
A negligible difference in distance: the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke scores 9.2/10 vs 8.8/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed X. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Key tech like Ai Smart Face drives the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke holds a modest edge in feel & sound at 9/10 vs the Cobra Darkspeed X's 8.2/10. A 0.8-point advantage that's slight but could matter if feel & sound ranks high on your priority list. The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
A negligible difference in adjustability: the Cobra Darkspeed X scores 8.6/10 vs 8.2/10 for the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. The Cobra Darkspeed X offers MyFly8 adjustable hosel (8 loft settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
A clear advantage for the Cobra Darkspeed X in value: 8.4/10 vs 7.2/10 for the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke. The 1.2-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. At $499, the Cobra Darkspeed X is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke | Cobra Darkspeed X |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $499 |
| Year | 2024 | 2024 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 8°, 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 8°, 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 8800 | 8700 |
| 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 Paradym Ai Smoke. Its 8.8/10 forgiveness score means more consistent results on off-center strikes compared to the Cobra Darkspeed X's 8.6/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke has the edge at 9.2/10 vs 8.8/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The Cobra Darkspeed X at $499 scores 8.4/10 for value — better than the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke's 7.2/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke or Cobra Darkspeed X?
The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke scores higher overall at 8.6/10 vs 8.5/10. It wins on forgiveness, distance, feel and sound. The Cobra Darkspeed X is better for adjustability, value. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke more forgiving than the Cobra Darkspeed X?
The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke is more forgiving, scoring 8.8/10 compared to 8.6/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed X. It offers better stability on mishits, though the gap may narrow for center-face strikes.
Which is better value: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke or Cobra Darkspeed X?
The Cobra Darkspeed X ($499) scores 8.4/10 for value vs 7.2/10 for the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.