Cobra Darkspeed X vs Cobra OPTM X
At $599 vs $499, there's a $100 gap between the Cobra OPTM X and the Cobra Darkspeed X. Is the premium worth it? The Cobra OPTM X does score higher overall, but the Cobra Darkspeed X punches above its price. Here's the full head-to-head breakdown.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
The Cobra OPTM X edges the Cobra Darkspeed X 8.8 to 8.6 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 X's 9,100 MOI provides solid stability.
Distance
The Cobra OPTM X edges the Cobra Darkspeed X 8.9 to 8.8 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 X's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
The Cobra OPTM X edges the Cobra Darkspeed X 8.4 to 8.2 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 OPTM X's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
The Cobra OPTM X holds a modest edge in adjustability 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 adjustability ranks high on your priority list. The Cobra OPTM X offers FutureFit33 hosel (33 settings) for fine-tuning.
Value
A clear advantage for the Cobra Darkspeed X in value: 8.4/10 vs 7.2/10 for the Cobra OPTM X. The 1.2-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 X |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 8°, 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 8700 | 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 OPTM X. Its 8.8/10 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 OPTM X has the edge at 8.9/10 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 X's 7.2/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cobra Darkspeed X or Cobra OPTM X?
The Cobra OPTM X scores higher overall at 8.7/10 vs 8.5/10. It wins on forgiveness, distance, feel and sound, adjustability. The Cobra Darkspeed X is better for value. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Cobra Darkspeed X more forgiving than the Cobra OPTM X?
The Cobra OPTM X is more forgiving, scoring 8.8/10 compared to 8.6/10 for the Cobra Darkspeed X. 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 X?
The Cobra Darkspeed X ($499) scores 8.4/10 for value vs 7.2/10 for the Cobra OPTM X ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.