Cobra Darkspeed LS vs Cobra OPTM Max-K
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Cobra OPTM Max-K and the Cobra Darkspeed LS. Is the premium worth it? Interestingly, the more affordable Cobra Darkspeed LS actually matches or beats the Cobra OPTM Max-K in several key areas. Here's the full head-to-head breakdown.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
A major gap in forgiveness separates these two. The Cobra OPTM Max-K dominates at 9.6/10 while the Cobra Darkspeed LS manages just 7.4/10 — a 2.2-point chasm. If forgiveness matters to your game, this is a deciding factor. Cobra OPTM Max-K's 9,800 MOI is among the highest available.
Distance
The Cobra Darkspeed LS holds a modest edge in distance at 9/10 vs the Cobra OPTM Max-K's 8.2/10. A 0.8-point advantage that's slight but could matter if distance ranks high on your priority list. Key tech like PWR-Bridge Weighting drives the Cobra Darkspeed LS's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
A negligible difference in feel & sound: the Cobra Darkspeed LS scores 8/10 vs 7.6/10 for the Cobra OPTM Max-K. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. The Cobra Darkspeed LS's 450cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
The Cobra Darkspeed LS edges the Cobra OPTM Max-K 8.6 to 8.4 in adjustability, 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 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-K'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-K |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 450cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 8°, 9°, 10.5° | 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 8000 | 9800 |
| 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-K. Its 9.6/10 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 8.2/10. 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-K's 7.4/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cobra Darkspeed LS or Cobra OPTM Max-K?
The Cobra Darkspeed LS scores higher overall at 8.3/10 vs 8.3/10. It wins on distance, feel and sound, adjustability, value. The Cobra OPTM Max-K is better for forgiveness. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cobra Darkspeed LS more forgiving than the Cobra OPTM Max-K?
The Cobra OPTM Max-K is more forgiving, scoring 9.6/10 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-K?
The Cobra Darkspeed LS ($499) scores 8.4/10 for value vs 7.4/10 for the Cobra OPTM Max-K ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.