Cobra Darkspeed LS vs Cobra OPTM LS
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Cobra OPTM LS and the Cobra Darkspeed LS. Is the premium worth it? The Cobra OPTM LS does score higher overall, but the Cobra Darkspeed LS punches above its price. Here's the full head-to-head breakdown.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
Both the Cobra Darkspeed LS and Cobra OPTM LS score 7.4/10 for forgiveness — a dead heat. Neither has a meaningful edge here, so this category won't be the deciding factor. Cobra Darkspeed LS's 8,000 MOI reflects its workability-first design.
Distance
The Cobra OPTM LS edges the Cobra Darkspeed LS 9.2 to 9 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 POI Shaping drives the Cobra OPTM LS's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The Cobra OPTM LS holds a modest edge in feel & sound at 8.8/10 vs the Cobra Darkspeed LS's 8/10. A 0.8-point advantage that's slight but could matter if feel & sound ranks high on your priority list. The Cobra OPTM LS's 450cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
The Cobra OPTM LS holds a modest edge in adjustability at 9.2/10 vs the Cobra Darkspeed LS's 8.6/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if adjustability ranks high on your priority list. The Cobra OPTM LS offers FutureFit33 hosel (33 settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
A clear advantage for the Cobra Darkspeed LS in value: 8.4/10 vs 7/10 for the Cobra OPTM LS. The 1.4-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. At $499, the Cobra Darkspeed LS is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Cobra Darkspeed LS | Cobra OPTM LS |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 450cc | 450cc |
| Lofts | 8°, 9°, 10.5° | 8°, 9°, 10.5° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 8000 | 8300 |
| Key Tech | PWR-Bridge Weighting, AI Designed H.O.T. Face, Carbon Fiber Crown and Sole | POI Shaping, FutureFit33 Adjustable Hosel, H.O.T. Face |
Which Should You Buy?
If you want maximum distance
The Cobra OPTM LS has the edge at 9.2/10 vs 9/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The Cobra Darkspeed LS at $499 scores 8.4/10 for value — better than the Cobra OPTM LS's 7/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cobra Darkspeed LS or Cobra OPTM LS?
The Cobra OPTM LS scores higher overall at 8.5/10 vs 8.3/10. It wins on distance, feel and sound, adjustability. The Cobra Darkspeed LS is better for value. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cobra Darkspeed LS more forgiving than the Cobra OPTM LS?
They're evenly matched on forgiveness, both scoring 7.4/10. Neither has a meaningful edge for off-center hits.
Which is better value: Cobra Darkspeed LS or Cobra OPTM LS?
The Cobra Darkspeed LS ($499) scores 8.4/10 for value vs 7/10 for the Cobra OPTM LS ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.