Ping G440 Max vs PXG Lightning Max 10K+
Both the Ping G440 Max and PXG Lightning Max 10K+ target similar golfers, but they take different approaches to performance. The Ping G440 Max from Ping is a 2026 release, while PXG's PXG Lightning Max 10K+ is brand new for 2026. We put both through our scoring system to see which one delivers more where it counts.
Score Comparison
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Forgiveness
The Ping G440 Max edges the PXG Lightning Max 10K+ 9.5 to 9.4 in forgiveness, but the 0.1-point gap is virtually identical in practice. You won't feel a real-world difference between these two here. Ping G440 Max's 9,500 MOI is among the highest available.
Distance
A negligible difference in distance: the Ping G440 Max scores 8.8/10 vs 8.4/10 for the PXG Lightning Max 10K+. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. Key tech like Carbonfly Wrap drives the Ping G440 Max's speed numbers.
Feel & Sound
A negligible difference in feel & sound: the Ping G440 Max scores 8.5/10 vs 8/10 for the PXG Lightning Max 10K+. The 0.5-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. The Ping G440 Max's 460cc head produces a confident, full-bodied sound.
Adjustability
The PXG Lightning Max 10K+ edges the Ping G440 Max 8.6 to 8.4 in adjustability, but the 0.2-point gap is virtually identical in practice. You won't feel a real-world difference between these two here. The PXG Lightning Max 10K+ offers 8-way adjustable hosel for fine-tuning.
Value
A negligible difference in value: the Ping G440 Max scores 7.4/10 vs 7/10 for the PXG Lightning Max 10K+. The 0.4-point gap is slim enough that other factors should guide your decision. At $599, the Ping G440 Max is priced in line with flagship competitors.
Specifications
| Spec | Ping G440 Max | PXG Lightning Max 10K+ |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $649 |
| Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Head Size | 460cc | 460cc |
| Lofts | 9°, 10.5°, 12° | 9°, 10.5°, 12° |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| MOI | 9500 | 10095 |
| Key Tech | Carbonfly Wrap, Spinsistency Face, Facewrap Technology | Frequency Tuned Face, Spined Sole Design, 84% More Carbon Fiber |
Which Should You Buy?
If you want maximum forgiveness
Go with the Ping G440 Max. Its 9.5/10 forgiveness score means more consistent results on off-center strikes compared to the PXG Lightning Max 10K+'s 9.4/10.
If you want maximum distance
The Ping G440 Max has the edge at 8.8/10 vs 8.4/10. Its design is optimized for ball speed and carry distance.
If you're on a budget
The Ping G440 Max at $599 scores 7.4/10 for value — better than the PXG Lightning Max 10K+'s 7/10 at $649.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Ping G440 Max or PXG Lightning Max 10K+?
The Ping G440 Max scores higher overall at 8.6/10 vs 8.4/10. It wins on forgiveness, distance, feel and sound, value. The PXG Lightning Max 10K+ is better for adjustability. The best choice depends on your priorities and handicap level.
Is the Ping G440 Max more forgiving than the PXG Lightning Max 10K+?
The Ping G440 Max is more forgiving, scoring 9.5/10 compared to 9.4/10 for the PXG Lightning Max 10K+. It offers excellent stability on mishits.
Which is better value: Ping G440 Max or PXG Lightning Max 10K+?
The Ping G440 Max ($599) scores 7.4/10 for value vs 7/10 for the PXG Lightning Max 10K+ ($649). It costs less and delivers more bang for the buck.