Cobra Darkspeed LS vs Cobra OPTM X
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Cobra OPTM X and the Cobra Darkspeed LS. Is the premium worth it? The Cobra OPTM X 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 X in forgiveness: 8.8/10 vs 7.4/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed LS. The 1.4-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. Cobra OPTM X's 9,100 MOI provides solid stability.
Distance
The Cobra Darkspeed LS edges the Cobra OPTM X 9 to 8.9 in distance, but the 0.1-point gap is virtually identical in practice. You won't feel a real-world difference between these two here. Key tech like PWR-Bridge Weighting drives the Cobra Darkspeed LS's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
A negligible difference in feel & sound: the Cobra OPTM X scores 8.4/10 vs 8/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed LS. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. The Cobra OPTM X's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
The Cobra OPTM X holds a modest edge in adjustability at 9.4/10 vs the Cobra Darkspeed LS's 8.6/10. A 0.8-point advantage that's slight but could matter if adjustability ranks high on your priority list. The Cobra OPTM X offers FutureFit33 hosel (33 settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
A clear advantage for the Cobra Darkspeed LS in value: 8.4/10 vs 7.2/10 for the Cobra OPTM X. The 1.2-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 X |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 450cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 8°, 9°, 10.5° | 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 8000 | 9100 |
| 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 X. Its 8.8/10 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 8.9/10. 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 X's 7.2/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cobra Darkspeed LS or Cobra OPTM X?
The Cobra OPTM X scores higher overall at 8.7/10 vs 8.3/10. It wins on forgiveness, feel and sound, adjustability. The Cobra Darkspeed LS is better for distance, value. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cobra Darkspeed LS more forgiving than the Cobra OPTM X?
The Cobra OPTM X is more forgiving, scoring 8.8/10 compared to 7.4/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed LS. It offers better stability on mishits, though the gap may narrow for center-face strikes.
Which is better value: Cobra Darkspeed LS or Cobra OPTM X?
The Cobra Darkspeed LS ($499) scores 8.4/10 for value vs 7.2/10 for the Cobra OPTM X ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.