Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw vs PXG Lightning Max
Both the Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw and PXG Lightning Max target similar golfers, but they take different approaches to performance. The Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw from Cleveland is a 2026 release, while PXG's PXG Lightning 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
A negligible difference in forgiveness: the Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw scores 9.4/10 vs 9/10 for the PXG Lightning Max. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision.
Distance
The PXG Lightning Max edges the Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw 8.2 to 8 in distance, but the 0.2-point gap is virtually identical in practice. You won't feel a real-world difference between these two here. Key tech like Hybrid Crown drives the PXG Lightning Max's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The PXG Lightning Max edges the Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw 7.6 to 7.4 in feel & sound, but the 0.2-point gap is virtually identical in practice. You won't feel a real-world difference between these two here. The PXG Lightning Max's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
The PXG Lightning Max holds a modest edge in adjustability at 7.8/10 vs the Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw's 7.2/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if adjustability ranks high on your priority list. The PXG Lightning Max offers Adjustable hosel (4 settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
The PXG Lightning Max edges the Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw 9 to 8.8 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 $399, the PXG Lightning Max undercuts most competitors significantly.
Specifications
| Spec | Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw | PXG Lightning Max |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $450 | $399 |
| Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | N/A | 9400 |
| Key Tech | MainFrame XL AI Face, Rebound Frame (Dual Flex), HiBore Crown | Hybrid Crown, DXC (Dual X Carbon), Back-Biased Perimeter Weighting |
Which Should You Buy?
If you want maximum forgiveness
Go with the Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw. Its 9.4/10 forgiveness score means more consistent results on off-center strikes compared to the PXG Lightning Max's 9/10.
If you want maximum distance
The PXG Lightning Max has the edge at 8.2/10 vs 8/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The PXG Lightning Max at $399 scores 9/10 for value — better than the Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw's 8.8/10 at $450.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw or PXG Lightning Max?
The Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw scores higher overall at 8.2/10 vs 8.2/10. It wins on forgiveness. The PXG Lightning Max is better for distance, feel and sound, adjustability, value. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw more forgiving than the PXG Lightning Max?
The Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw is more forgiving, scoring 9.4/10 compared to 9/10 for the PXG Lightning Max. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw or PXG Lightning Max?
The PXG Lightning Max ($399) scores 9/10 for value vs 8.8/10 for the Cleveland Launcher XL2 Draw ($450). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.