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They are the two biggest drivers launched in 2024 and we've put them up against each other in a head-to-head to see which one should be going in your bag this year. But before we get to our full Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke vs TaylorMade Qi10 drivers video test, let's remind ourselves of the two contenders...
PROS
- Four head options to choose from for golfers of all levels
- Faster ball speeds off the new Ai Smart Face
- Longer and straighter drives
- Forgiving across the whole face
CONS
- Aesthetics will not be to everyone's taste
There are four models in the Paradym Ai Smoke range – the Triple Diamond, Max, Max D, and Max Fast - and I've tested them all.
The Triple Diamond is the one I would put in my bag as not only is it aimed at lower-handicap players looking for faster ball speeds, but I found the right balance of tight dispersion and extra distance that suited me - all without sacrificing forgiveness.
But this isn't about me, it's about you, and you will love the Max model. With its adjustable weights you can really dial in the centre of gravity in the head to suit your swing. It's also ludicrously forgiving, so this will be the most popular option by far.
If you suffer from what we call a "power fade", then the draw-bias Max D model is the one for you. With a larget profile, a rear weight that stabilises the clubhead through the swing, and higher MOI, this is perfect for players wanting to straighten out those left-to-right shots.
The Max Fast, meanwhile, is a high MOI model that features a generously stretched profile at address. The fixed hosel and rear weighting system make this perfect for senior players, or golfers with slower swing speeds. By far the easiest to launch.
• Click here for our full Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke review
PROS
- New Blue Carbon Face Twist Face for straighter drives
- Infinity Carbon Crown aesthetically pleasing on the eye
- Explosive ball speeds and more forgiveness
- 10,000 MOI model
CONS
- Acoustics won't be everyone's cup of tea
Forgiveness. Forgiveness. Forgiveness. Out goes the Stealth and in comes the Qi10, TaylorMade's first driver to tip over the 10,000 MOI mark.
There are three models in this range.
The LS is for players looking for a low-spinning, low-launching flight and faster ball speeds off the face. The one thing that impressed me most is just how easy it was to hit, with little or no sacrifice to distance when catching one off-centre.
At the other end of the scale is the Qi10 Max. I might go as far as saying it's the most forgiving driver I've ever hit. Thanks to its high MOI, it is remarkably stable throughout the swing and incredibly easy to launch.
And in the middle is the standard Qi10 model, which combines the other two to create a driver that is longer than the Max, but more forgiving than the LS. A really good all-rounder for golfers of all abilities.
And I think you can agree that, aesthetically, it is a huge improvement on Stealth. An absolute must-try if you are in the market for a new driver.
• Click here for our full TaylorMade Qi10 driver review
Conclusion
There is no denying these drivers are brilliant and will appeal to golfers of all levels - especially with brand new Artificial Intelligence-designed faces and more forgiveness - including a 10,000 MOI option.
If you’re in the market for a low-spining model, then you should check out the LS models in both Ai Smoke and Qi10.
If you’re looking for longer, straighter drives, then check out the standard models.
And if you're all about forgiveness, the Ai Smoke Max D and Qi10 Max models are what you should be trying.
These are both incredible drivers that more than meet their lofty expectations.
Now, let's crunch the data. For a more in-depth look at the two biggest drivers of 2024, then you won't want to miss my Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke vs Qi10 TaylorMade head-to-head.
You can watch in the player below, or over on the bunkered YouTube channel.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke vs TaylorMade Qi10
How we picked
Performance Consistency
We meticulously evaluated each piece of equipment's performance across a number of variables.
Forgiveness and Playability
With golf clubs, our assessment always considered the versatility and forgiveness levels, especially on off-centre strikes.
Innovative Technology
We scrutinise the incorporation of innovative technology in each piece of equipment we review.
Customisation
We consider factors like adjustable features and customisation options available to the buyer.
ALL ABOUT THE OPEN
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