Cobra Darkspeed MAX vs Cobra OPTM Max-D
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Cobra OPTM Max-D and the Cobra Darkspeed MAX. Is the premium worth it? Interestingly, the more affordable Cobra Darkspeed MAX actually matches or beats the Cobra OPTM Max-D in several key areas. Here's the full head-to-head breakdown.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
The Cobra OPTM Max-D edges the Cobra Darkspeed MAX 9.4 to 9.2 in forgiveness, but the 0.2-point gap is virtually identical in practice. You won't feel a real-world difference between these two here. Cobra OPTM Max-D's 9,600 MOI is among the highest available.
Distance
The Cobra OPTM Max-D edges the Cobra Darkspeed MAX 8.5 to 8.4 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 POI Shaping drives the Cobra OPTM Max-D's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
Both the Cobra Darkspeed MAX and Cobra OPTM Max-D score 7.8/10 for feel & sound — a dead heat. Neither has a meaningful edge here, so this category won't be the deciding factor. The Cobra Darkspeed MAX's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
The Cobra OPTM Max-D holds a modest edge in adjustability at 8.6/10 vs the Cobra Darkspeed MAX's 8/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if adjustability ranks high on your priority list. The Cobra OPTM Max-D offers FutureFit33 hosel (33 settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
A clear advantage for the Cobra Darkspeed MAX in value: 8.6/10 vs 7.4/10 for the Cobra OPTM Max-D. The 1.2-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. At $499, the Cobra Darkspeed MAX is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Cobra Darkspeed MAX | Cobra OPTM Max-D |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 9100 | 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 MAX's 9.2/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Cobra OPTM Max-D has the edge at 8.5/10 vs 8.4/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX at $499 scores 8.6/10 for value — better than the Cobra OPTM Max-D's 7.4/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cobra Darkspeed MAX or Cobra OPTM Max-D?
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX scores higher overall at 8.5/10 vs 8.4/10. It wins on value. The Cobra OPTM Max-D is better for forgiveness, distance, adjustability. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cobra Darkspeed MAX more forgiving than the Cobra OPTM Max-D?
The Cobra OPTM Max-D is more forgiving, scoring 9.4/10 compared to 9.2/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed MAX. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Cobra Darkspeed MAX or Cobra OPTM Max-D?
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX ($499) scores 8.6/10 for value vs 7.4/10 for the Cobra OPTM Max-D ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.