Cobra Darkspeed X vs Cobra OPTM LS
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Cobra OPTM LS and the Cobra Darkspeed X. Is the premium worth it? Interestingly, the more affordable Cobra Darkspeed X actually matches or beats the Cobra OPTM LS in several key areas. Here's the full head-to-head breakdown.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
A clear advantage for the Cobra Darkspeed X in forgiveness: 8.6/10 vs 7.4/10 for the Cobra OPTM LS. The 1.2-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. Cobra Darkspeed X's 8,700 MOI provides solid stability.
Distance
A negligible difference in distance: the Cobra OPTM LS scores 9.2/10 vs 8.8/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed X. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Key tech like POI Shaping drives the Cobra OPTM LS's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The Cobra OPTM LS holds a modest edge in feel & sound at 8.8/10 vs the Cobra Darkspeed X's 8.2/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if feel & sound ranks high on your priority list. The Cobra OPTM LS's 450cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
The Cobra OPTM LS holds a modest edge in adjustability at 9.2/10 vs the Cobra Darkspeed X's 8.6/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if adjustability ranks high on your priority list. The Cobra OPTM LS offers FutureFit33 hosel (33 settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
A clear advantage for the Cobra Darkspeed X in value: 8.4/10 vs 7/10 for the Cobra OPTM LS. The 1.4-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. At $499, the Cobra Darkspeed X is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Cobra Darkspeed X | Cobra OPTM LS |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 450cc |
| Lofts | 8°, 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 8°, 9°, 10.5° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 8700 | 8300 |
| 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 X. Its 8.6/10 forgiveness score means more consistent results on off-center strikes compared to the Cobra OPTM LS's 7.4/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Cobra OPTM LS has the edge at 9.2/10 vs 8.8/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The Cobra Darkspeed X at $499 scores 8.4/10 for value — better than the Cobra OPTM LS's 7/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cobra Darkspeed X or Cobra OPTM LS?
The Cobra Darkspeed X scores higher overall at 8.5/10 vs 8.5/10. It wins on forgiveness, value. The Cobra OPTM LS is better for distance, feel and sound, adjustability. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cobra Darkspeed X more forgiving than the Cobra OPTM LS?
The Cobra Darkspeed X is more forgiving, scoring 8.6/10 compared to 7.4/10 for the Cobra OPTM LS. It offers better stability on mishits, though the gap may narrow for center-face strikes.
Which is better value: Cobra Darkspeed X or Cobra OPTM LS?
The Cobra Darkspeed X ($499) scores 8.4/10 for value vs 7/10 for the Cobra OPTM LS ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.