Ping G430 Max vs TaylorMade Qi35 MAX
Both the Ping G430 Max and TaylorMade Qi35 MAX target similar golfers, but they take different approaches to performance. The Ping G430 Max from Ping debuted in 2024, while TaylorMade's TaylorMade Qi35 MAX launched in 2025. We put both through our scoring system to see which one delivers more where it counts.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
A negligible difference in forgiveness: the TaylorMade Qi35 MAX scores 9.6/10 vs 9.2/10 for the Ping G430 Max. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. TaylorMade Qi35 MAX's 9,500 MOI is among the highest available.
Distance
The Ping G430 Max edges the TaylorMade Qi35 MAX 9 to 8.8 in distance, but the 0.2-point gap is virtually identical in practice. You won't feel a real-world difference between these two here. Key tech like Carbonfly Wrap drives the Ping G430 Max's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
Both the Ping G430 Max and TaylorMade Qi35 MAX score 8.5/10 for feel & sound — a dead heat. Neither has a meaningful edge here, so this category won't be the deciding factor. The Ping G430 Max's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
A negligible difference in adjustability: the Ping G430 Max scores 9/10 vs 8.6/10 for the TaylorMade Qi35 MAX. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. The Ping G430 Max offers Trajectory Tuning 2.0 hosel (8 positions) for fine-tuning.
Value
The Ping G430 Max holds a modest edge in value at 7.6/10 vs the TaylorMade Qi35 MAX's 7/10. A 0.6-point advantage that's slight but could matter if value ranks high on your priority list. At $549, the Ping G430 Max is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Ping G430 Max | TaylorMade Qi35 MAX |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549 | $599 |
| Year | 2024 | 2025 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 9200 | 9500 |
| Key Tech | Carbonfly Wrap, Spinsistency Face Technology, Movable Tungsten Back Weight | Infinity Carbon Chassis, 60-layer Carbon Twist Face, Qi Core |
Which Should You Buy?
If you want maximum forgiveness
Go with the TaylorMade Qi35 MAX. Its 9.6/10 forgiveness score means more consistent results on off-center strikes compared to the Ping G430 Max's 9.2/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Ping G430 Max has the edge at 9/10 vs 8.8/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The Ping G430 Max at $549 scores 7.6/10 for value — better than the TaylorMade Qi35 MAX's 7/10 at $599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Ping G430 Max or TaylorMade Qi35 MAX?
The Ping G430 Max scores higher overall at 8.7/10 vs 8.6/10. It wins on distance, adjustability, value. The TaylorMade Qi35 MAX is better for forgiveness. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Ping G430 Max more forgiving than the TaylorMade Qi35 MAX?
The TaylorMade Qi35 MAX is more forgiving, scoring 9.6/10 compared to 9.2/10 for the Ping G430 Max. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Ping G430 Max or TaylorMade Qi35 MAX?
The Ping G430 Max ($549) scores 7.6/10 for value vs 7/10 for the TaylorMade Qi35 MAX ($599). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.