Cobra Darkspeed X vs Cobra OPTM Max-D
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Cobra OPTM Max-D and the Cobra Darkspeed X. Is the premium worth it? Interestingly, the more affordable Cobra Darkspeed X 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 holds a modest edge in forgiveness at 9.4/10 vs the Cobra Darkspeed X's 8.6/10. A 0.8-point advantage that's slight but could matter if forgiveness ranks high on your priority list. Cobra OPTM Max-D's 9,600 MOI is among the highest available.
Distance
A negligible difference in distance: the Cobra Darkspeed X scores 8.8/10 vs 8.5/10 for the Cobra OPTM Max-D. The 0.3-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Key tech like PWR-Bridge Weighting drives the Cobra Darkspeed X's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
A negligible difference in feel & sound: the Cobra Darkspeed X scores 8.2/10 vs 7.8/10 for the Cobra OPTM Max-D. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. The Cobra Darkspeed X's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
Both the Cobra Darkspeed X and Cobra OPTM Max-D score 8.6/10 for adjustability — a dead heat. Neither has a meaningful edge here, so this category won't be the deciding factor. The Cobra Darkspeed X offers MyFly8 adjustable hosel (8 loft settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
The Cobra Darkspeed X holds a modest edge in value at 8.4/10 vs the Cobra OPTM Max-D's 7.4/10. A 1.0-point advantage that's slight but could matter if value ranks high on your priority list. At $499, the Cobra Darkspeed X is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Cobra Darkspeed X | Cobra OPTM Max-D |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 8°, 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 8700 | 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 X's 8.6/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Cobra Darkspeed X has the edge at 8.8/10 vs 8.5/10. 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 Max-D's 7.4/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cobra Darkspeed X or Cobra OPTM Max-D?
The Cobra Darkspeed X scores higher overall at 8.5/10 vs 8.4/10. It wins on distance, feel and sound, value. The Cobra OPTM Max-D is better for forgiveness. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cobra Darkspeed X more forgiving than the Cobra OPTM Max-D?
The Cobra OPTM Max-D is more forgiving, scoring 9.4/10 compared to 8.6/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed X. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Cobra Darkspeed X or Cobra OPTM Max-D?
The Cobra Darkspeed X ($499) scores 8.4/10 for value vs 7.4/10 for the Cobra OPTM Max-D ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.