Mizuno ST-X 230 vs Ping G430 Max

At $549 vs $449, there's a $100 gap between the Ping G430 Max and the Mizuno ST-X 230. Is the premium worth it? The Ping G430 Max does score higher overall, but the Mizuno ST-X 230 punches above its price. Here's the full head-to-head breakdown.

Mizuno ST-X 230

Mizuno

Mizuno ST-X 230

8.3/10

$449

2024

Ping G430 Max

Ping

Ping G430 Max

8.7/10

$549

2024

Ping G430 Max takes the edge at 8.7/10 vs 8.3/10

Score Comparison

8.8
Forgiveness
9.2
8.2
Distance
9
8.2
Feel & Sound
8.5
7.4
Adjustability
9
8.8
Value
7.6

Category-by-Category Breakdown

Forgiveness

A negligible difference in forgiveness: the Ping G430 Max scores 9.2/10 vs 8.8/10 for the Mizuno ST-X 230. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Ping G430 Max's 9,200 MOI provides solid stability.

Distance

The Ping G430 Max holds a modest edge in distance at 9/10 vs the Mizuno ST-X 230's 8.2/10. A 0.8-point advantage that's slight but could matter if distance ranks high on your priority list. Key tech like Carbonfly Wrap drives the Ping G430 Max's speed numbers.

Feel & Sound

A negligible difference in feel & sound: the Ping G430 Max scores 8.5/10 vs 8.2/10 for the Mizuno ST-X 230. The 0.3-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. The Ping G430 Max's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.

Adjustability

A clear advantage for the Ping G430 Max in adjustability: 9/10 vs 7.4/10 for the Mizuno ST-X 230. The 1.6-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. The Ping G430 Max offers Trajectory Tuning 2.0 hosel (8 positions) for fine-tuning.

Value

A clear advantage for the Mizuno ST-X 230 in value: 8.8/10 vs 7.6/10 for the Ping G430 Max. The 1.2-point gap represents a meaningful difference you'll likely notice on the course. At $449, the Mizuno ST-X 230 undercuts most competitors significantly.

Specifications

SpecMizuno ST-X 230Ping G430 Max
Price$449$549
Year20242024
Head Size460cc460cc
Lofts9.5°, 10.5°, 12°9°, 10.5°, 12°
AdjustableYesYes
MOI86009200
Key TechBeta Rich Ti-X Face, Carbon Crown, Cortech ChamberCarbonfly Wrap, Spinsistency Face Technology, Movable Tungsten Back Weight

Which Should You Buy?

If you want maximum forgiveness

Go with the Ping G430 Max. Its 9.2/10 forgiveness score means more consistent results on off-center strikes compared to the Mizuno ST-X 230's 8.8/10.

If you want maximum distance

The Ping G430 Max has the edge at 9/10 vs 8.2/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.

If you're on a budget

The Mizuno ST-X 230 at $449 scores 8.8/10 for value — better than the Ping G430 Max's 7.6/10 at $549.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: Mizuno ST-X 230 or Ping G430 Max?

The Ping G430 Max scores higher overall at 8.7/10 vs 8.3/10. It wins on forgiveness, distance, feel and sound, adjustability. The Mizuno ST-X 230 is better for value. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.

Is the Mizuno ST-X 230 more forgiving than the Ping G430 Max?

The Ping G430 Max is more forgiving, scoring 9.2/10 compared to 8.8/10 for the Mizuno ST-X 230. It offers excellent stability on mishits.

Which is better value: Mizuno ST-X 230 or Ping G430 Max?

The Mizuno ST-X 230 ($449) scores 8.8/10 for value vs 7.6/10 for the Ping G430 Max ($549). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.

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