Cobra Darkspeed MAX vs Cobra OPTM Max-K
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Cobra OPTM Max-K 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-K in several key areas. Here's the full head-to-head breakdown.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
A negligible difference in forgiveness: the Cobra OPTM Max-K scores 9.6/10 vs 9.2/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed MAX. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Cobra OPTM Max-K's 9,800 MOI is among the highest available.
Distance
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX edges the Cobra OPTM Max-K 8.4 to 8.2 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 PWR-Bridge Weighting drives the Cobra Darkspeed MAX's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX edges the Cobra OPTM Max-K 7.8 to 7.6 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 MAX's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
A negligible difference in adjustability: the Cobra OPTM Max-K scores 8.4/10 vs 8/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed MAX. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. The Cobra OPTM Max-K 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-K. 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-K |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 9100 | 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 MAX's 9.2/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX has the edge at 8.4/10 vs 8.2/10. 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-K's 7.4/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cobra Darkspeed MAX or Cobra OPTM Max-K?
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX scores higher overall at 8.5/10 vs 8.3/10. It wins on distance, feel and sound, value. The Cobra OPTM Max-K is better for forgiveness, adjustability. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cobra Darkspeed MAX more forgiving than the Cobra OPTM Max-K?
The Cobra OPTM Max-K is more forgiving, scoring 9.6/10 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-K?
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX ($499) scores 8.6/10 for value vs 7.4/10 for the Cobra OPTM Max-K ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.