Review: Cleveland Launcher XL 2 driver

author headshot
By Lewis Fraser Published: 8 January 2024 | Updated: 8 February 2024
min read

Cleveland have entered the world of Artificial Intelligence with their latest iteration of the Launcher XL driver.

WHO IS IT FOR?

Golfers who struggle to get the ball in the air off the tee.

bunkered rating

PROS

  • Incredibly forgiving
  • Confidence inspiring
  • Great looking

CONS

  • A higher-end price point
  • Won't suit better players

Sign up for our daily newsletter

Latest news, reviews, analysis and opinion, plus unmissable deals for bunkered subscriptions, events, and our commercial partners.

Cleveland Launcher XL 2 driver review

When it comes to making drivers for high-handicappers and beginners, Cleveland are among the best in the game. And 2024 looks to be no different with the ultra forgiving Launcher XL 2. Let’s take a closer look…

The First Look

Immediate thoughts straight out the box is it’s a very clean looking driver. The crown features Cleveland’s ‘C’ logo and a stylish design which doesn’t distract, while the sole is that unmistakable Cleveland design with flashes of blue and silver.

The Launcher XL 2 driver. (Credit: Cleveland Golf) |

The Launcher XL 2 driver. (Credit: Cleveland Golf) |

The Launcher XL 2 driver. (Credit: Cleveland Golf) |

The Launcher XL 2 driver. (Credit: Cleveland Golf) |

The Tech

This is what Cleveland have to say about the the Launcher XL 2 driver…

The Launcher XL 2 combines maximum distance and forgiveness, while introducing all-new performance features to take golfers’ long game to new heights.

The Launcher XL 2’s optimal performance lies within its MainFrame XL Face technology. A new AI-driven process helped create a variable thickness face design that reshapes and enlarges the sweet spot, improves energy transfer, and delivers powerful ball speeds for maximum distance. Another key feature of the Launcher XL 2 is its XL Head Design and weighting setup that delivers even more MOI than its predecessor, registering a 2% increase in heel and toe MOI and 12% increase in high/low MOI – the highest levels ever in a Cleveland driver.

To further enhance playability, the Launcher XL 2 has an adjustable hosel, allowing golfers to fine-tune their launch angle, distance, and shot shape. This adjustability option empowers players to optimize their performance and achieve their desired ball flight, from towering draws to controlled fades.

Alongside the Launcher XL 2, is the Launcher XL 2 Draw Driver, specifically designed to assist golfers who struggle with a slice. Featuring an adjustable hosel and a reworked chassis, golfers can enjoy more control over their tee shots and find more consistency off the tee.

Other key features in the Launcher XL 2 are Cleveland Golf’s Rebound Frame technology and Action Mass CB. Rebound Frame’s alternating dual-flex zones increase the amount of energy directed into the ball, amplifying ball speed and distance on every shot. Meanwhile, Action Mass CB is an 8-gram counterbalance weight that’s placed into the end of the shaft for a more balanced, stable swing feel and more control without extra effort.

“From top to bottom, the Launcher XL 2 was designed with the avid golfer in mind. We want players to feel confident off the tee and know they’re going to get the most out of their round with the best club in the bag. Across the board players are going to see a noticeable difference in distance, feel, and consistency.”

– Joe Miller (product manager, Cleveland Golf Europe)

The bunkered Verdict

There is no doubt that Cleveland make incredibly forgiving drivers, and the Launcher XL 2 promises to be no different. Keep an eye out for our full review in the near future.

In the meantime, make sure you’re subscribed to the bunkered YouTube channel for all the latest gear reviews.

The Details

RRP: £429
On-sale: February 17, 2024

More from Cleveland

• Cleveland Halo XL fairway woods and hybrids

• Cleveland ZipCore XL irons

• Cleveland CBX4 ZipCore wedges

• Cleveland RTX Full-Face 2 wedges

• Cleveland Smart Sole Full-Face wedges


author headshot

Lewis Fraser As bunkered’s Performance Editor, Lewis oversees the content that’s designed to make you a better player. From the latest gear to tuition, nutrition, strategy and more, he’s the man. A graduate of the University of Stirling, Lewis joined bunkered in 2021. Formerly a caddie at Castle Stuart Golf Links, he is a member of Bathgate Golf Club where he plays off four.

Performance Editor

More Reads

Image Turnberry green

The bunkered Golf Course Guide - Scotland

Now, with bunkered, you can discover the golf courses Scotland has to offer. Trust us, you will not be disappointed.

Find Courses

Latest podcast

The 2024 Masters Commute – Final Round Recap LIVE from Augusta

More Reviews

Best of Buying Guides