Cobra Darkspeed LS vs Cobra OPTM Max-D
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Cobra OPTM Max-D and the Cobra Darkspeed LS. Is the premium worth it? The Cobra OPTM Max-D 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
A clear advantage for the Cobra OPTM Max-D in forgiveness: 9.4/10 vs 7.4/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed LS. The 2.0-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. Cobra OPTM Max-D's 9,600 MOI is among the highest available.
Distance
A negligible difference in distance: the Cobra Darkspeed LS scores 9/10 vs 8.5/10 for the Cobra OPTM Max-D. The 0.5-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Key tech like PWR-Bridge Weighting drives the Cobra Darkspeed LS's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The Cobra Darkspeed LS edges the Cobra OPTM Max-D 8 to 7.8 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 Cobra Darkspeed LS's 450cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
Both the Cobra Darkspeed LS and Cobra OPTM Max-D score 8.6/10 for adjustability — a dead heat. Neither has a meaningful edge here, so this category won't be the deciding factor. The Cobra Darkspeed LS offers MyFly8 adjustable hosel (8 loft settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
The Cobra Darkspeed LS holds a modest edge in value at 8.4/10 vs the Cobra OPTM Max-D's 7.4/10. A 1.0-point advantage that's slight but could matter if value ranks high on your priority list. At $499, the Cobra Darkspeed LS is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Cobra Darkspeed LS | Cobra OPTM Max-D |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 450cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 8°, 9°, 10.5° | 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 8000 | 9600 |
| 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 forgiveness
Go with the Cobra OPTM Max-D. Its 9.4/10 forgiveness score means more consistent results on off-center strikes compared to the Cobra Darkspeed LS's 7.4/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Cobra Darkspeed LS has the edge at 9/10 vs 8.5/10. 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 Max-D's 7.4/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cobra Darkspeed LS or Cobra OPTM Max-D?
The Cobra OPTM Max-D scores higher overall at 8.4/10 vs 8.3/10. It wins on forgiveness. The Cobra Darkspeed LS is better for distance, feel and sound, value. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cobra Darkspeed LS more forgiving than the Cobra OPTM Max-D?
The Cobra OPTM Max-D is more forgiving, scoring 9.4/10 compared to 7.4/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed LS. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Cobra Darkspeed LS or Cobra OPTM Max-D?
The Cobra Darkspeed LS ($499) scores 8.4/10 for value vs 7.4/10 for the Cobra OPTM Max-D ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.