Cobra Darkspeed MAX vs Cobra OPTM X
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Cobra OPTM X and the Cobra Darkspeed MAX. Is the premium worth it? The Cobra OPTM X does score higher overall, but the Cobra Darkspeed MAX punches above its price. Here's the full head-to-head breakdown.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
A negligible difference in forgiveness: the Cobra Darkspeed MAX scores 9.2/10 vs 8.8/10 for the Cobra OPTM X. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Cobra Darkspeed MAX's 9,100 MOI provides solid stability.
Distance
A negligible difference in distance: the Cobra OPTM X scores 8.9/10 vs 8.4/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed MAX. The 0.5-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Key tech like POI Shaping drives the Cobra OPTM X's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The Cobra OPTM X holds a modest edge in feel & sound at 8.4/10 vs the Cobra Darkspeed MAX's 7.8/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if feel & sound ranks high on your priority list. The Cobra OPTM X's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
A clear advantage for the Cobra OPTM X in adjustability: 9.4/10 vs 8/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed MAX. The 1.4-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. The Cobra OPTM X offers FutureFit33 hosel (33 settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
A clear advantage for the Cobra Darkspeed MAX in value: 8.6/10 vs 7.2/10 for the Cobra OPTM X. The 1.4-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 X |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 9100 | 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 Darkspeed MAX. Its 9.2/10 forgiveness score means more consistent results on off-center strikes compared to the Cobra OPTM X's 8.8/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Cobra OPTM X has the edge at 8.9/10 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 X's 7.2/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cobra Darkspeed MAX or Cobra OPTM X?
The Cobra OPTM X scores higher overall at 8.7/10 vs 8.5/10. It wins on distance, feel and sound, adjustability. The Cobra Darkspeed MAX is better for forgiveness, value. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cobra Darkspeed MAX more forgiving than the Cobra OPTM X?
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX is more forgiving, scoring 9.2/10 compared to 8.8/10 for the Cobra OPTM X. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Cobra Darkspeed MAX or Cobra OPTM X?
The Cobra Darkspeed MAX ($499) scores 8.6/10 for value vs 7.2/10 for the Cobra OPTM X ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.