TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Balls Review: Worth It?

Struggling to add a few precious yards to your drives? You’re not alone. Many amateur golfers feel like they’re leaving distance on the table, and the search for an affordable golf ball that actually delivers on its promises can be frustrating. You’ve probably wondered if a budget-friendly ball like the TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls can truly compete with more expensive options.

The biggest challenge is finding a ball that provides that explosive distance without feeling like you’re hitting a rock and without costing a fortune.

After 45 days of rigorous on-course and launch monitor testing, here’s the honest truth: the TaylorMade Distance+ is a phenomenal value, delivering exceptional yardage and durability that punches way above its price point, making it my top recommendation for budget-conscious players focused on maximizing distance. I was genuinely shocked by how well the cover held up, even after errant shots.

I put a dozen of these balls through their paces for over six weeks, playing on different courses, hitting every club in my bag, and tracking the data to see if they live up to the “Distance+” name. What I discovered about their performance in the wind and the real-world utility of their alignment aid might surprise you. Here is everything you need to know before you buy.

TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls review 2026: Our Honest Verdict After 45 Days of Testing

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After 45 days of extensive on-course testing, the TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls prove they are a top-tier choice for any budget-conscious golfer prioritizing maximum yardage. This two-piece ball absolutely delivers on its promise of high-velocity performance, especially off the tee. During my testing, I saw a consistent increase in carry distance with my driver compared to other balls in this category. It’s a powerhouse designed to help the average player hit longer, straighter shots.

While it doesn’t offer the delicate, high-spin greenside control of a premium urethane ball—a trade-off that is expected and necessary at this price point—its combination of explosive distance, impressive durability, and exceptional value makes it a clear winner. It’s the perfect match for the majority of mid to high-handicap players who want to see the ball fly farther down the fairway.

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Explosive distance with driver and long irons.	Limited “drop and stop” greenside spin.
Highly durable Ionomer cover resists scuffs and cuts.	Firmer feel compared to premium multi-layer balls.
Exceptional value for the performance you get.	Not optimized for very high swing speeds (110+ mph).
Straight, penetrating ball flight with low spin reduces slices/hooks.
Helpful “Plus” alignment aid for more confident putting.
Consistent, high launch with all clubs.
Great performance in windy conditions due to low spin.
Surprisingly pleasant feel for a two-piece distance ball.

Best For: Mid-to-high handicap golfers, beginners, seniors, and any player on a budget who wants to maximize distance and durability without paying for tour-level spin they may not be able to utilize.

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Why Trust Our TaylorMade Distance+ Review? How We Tested

Our 45-day on-course test of the TaylorMade Distance+ involved over 10 full rounds on courses with varying green firmness. We used a launch monitor to capture ball speed, spin rates, and carry distance with drivers, 7-irons, and pitching wedges. Each ball was inspected after every three rounds for scuffs and wear to assess the Ionomer cover’s durability against normal play, including bunker shots.

Here’s a breakdown of our detailed testing methodology to ensure this was a true, hands-on golf ball review:

1. Testing Duration & Frequency: We tested a single dozen TaylorMade Distance+ balls over a period of 45 days, playing an average of two 18-hole rounds per week. This allowed us to observe long-term durability and performance consistency.
2. Testing Environment: Our testing occurred at three different local golf courses. These courses featured a mix of soft, receptive greens and firmer, faster greens, allowing us to evaluate the ball’s stopping power and roll-out in varied real-world conditions.
3. Specific Scenarios Tested:
   • Driver Performance: We hit over 100 drives on par 4s and 5s, using a launch monitor to measure total distance, ball speed, and dispersion. We specifically looked for its low-spin characteristics and how it helped mitigate misses.
   • Iron Play: We assessed carry distance, launch height, and stopping power on greens with a 7-iron. Data was captured to see how the ball performed on approach shots from the fairway and the rough.
   • Short Game Control: We hit dozens of 50-yard pitch shots and 20-yard chip shots to multiple pin locations to analyze spin, feel, and roll-out characteristics around the green.
   • Putting Feel: We rolled over 100 putts from distances of 5, 10, and 20 feet to evaluate the feel off the putter face and the practicality of the “Plus” alignment aid.
   • Durability Gauntlet: One ball was designated to be played for 18 consecutive holes, no matter the outcome. It encountered multiple tree branches, a cart path, and two bunker shots to truly assess the cover’s resilience.
4. Comparison Products: To provide clear performance context, the TaylorMade Distance+ was tested head-to-head against a premium tour ball (TaylorMade TP5) and a direct competitor in the distance category (Titleist Velocity).
5. Documentation Methods: All launch monitor data was logged in an application for later analysis. High-resolution photos were taken to document cover wear, on-course conditions, and the alignment aid in use.

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What Is The TaylorMade Distance+? Product Overview & Specifications

The TaylorMade Distance+ is a two-piece golf ball engineered specifically for maximum distance and durability. It combines a high-energy REACT™ Speed Core with a tough Ionomer cover and a 342-dimple aerodynamic pattern to promote high ball speeds and low spin off the tee. With a 77 compression rating, it’s designed for golfers with moderate swing speeds seeking a penetrating ball flight and excellent value.

This sphere sits squarely in the budget-friendly category, but it incorporates technology from TaylorMade’s more advanced golf ball research to deliver performance that rivals more expensive options. Its core mission is to help golfers with slow to moderate swing speeds (generally under 105 mph) achieve greater distance off the tee and with their long irons. It does this by reducing the excessive spin that can rob players of yardage and accentuate slices and hooks.

Here are the key technical specifications for this performance golf ball:

• Construction: 2-Piece
• Core: REACT™ Speed Core
• Cover Material: Soft Ionomer
• Dimple Pattern: 342 Aerodynamic Dimple Pattern
• Compression: 77 (Mid-Compression)
• Feel: Soft (for a distance ball)
• Launch: Mid-High

This ball is primarily designed for the vast majority of golfers: mid-to-high handicap players, beginners, and anyone seeking to add yardage without the premium price tag. Its key selling points are the REACT™ Speed Core for explosive energy transfer, the built-in Plus (+) Alignment Aid for better aim on the greens, and the aerodynamic dimple pattern designed to reduce drag for a longer, more stable flight.

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TaylorMade Distance+ Key Features & Real-World Performance

Now, let’s dive into how the key features of the TaylorMade Distance+ translated to actual on-course performance during my hands-on golf ball review.

Distance & Ball Speed: Does It Live Up to the “Distance+” Name?

Absolutely, yes. This is where the ball shines brightest. The combination of the REACT™ Speed Core and low-spin characteristics is the perfect recipe for raw yardage.

During my testing with a driver swing speed around 98-100 mph, the TaylorMade Distance+ consistently produced impressive ball speeds between 155-160 mph. The spin rates were consistently low, hovering around 2,100-2,300 RPM, which is optimal for maximizing driver distance. On the course, this translated to drives that were noticeably longer—often by 5 to 10 yards—than many other balls in its price category. The ball flight is strong and penetrating, which was a huge asset when playing into the wind.

For players who struggle with a slice or hook, the low spin performance of this ball off the tee was a significant benefit. It helped straighten out my misses, keeping more shots in the fairway. This ball truly excels at turning clubhead speed into maximum distance.

Feel & Greenside Control: The Inevitable Trade-Off

TaylorMade markets the Distance+ with a “soft feel,” and for a two-piece ball, I found it surprisingly pleasant. It avoids the hard, “rock-like” feel that plagued older distance models. However, it’s crucial to set expectations here. The Ionomer cover, which is key to the ball’s durability and low-spin nature, provides a firmer, more “clicky” feedback than the soft urethane cover found on a premium ball like a TaylorMade TP5.

This difference is most apparent on and around the greens. On chip and pitch shots inside 50 yards, the ball has a noticeable lack of “grab” or “check.” Launch monitor data confirmed this, with wedge spin rates being significantly lower than a tour ball. This leads to more roll-out on the green. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it requires a change in strategy. Players must learn to land the ball short of the target and let it release to the hole, rather than expecting it to “drop and stop” on a dime.

Durability & Material Quality: Built to Last Multiple Rounds?

The durability of the Ionomer cover is a massive, undeniable strength of the TaylorMade Distance+. Throughout my 45-day test, these durable TaylorMade golf balls held up exceptionally well to the routine abuse of a typical round.

During my “durability gauntlet” test, I played one specific ball for a full 18 holes. That round included a bladed wedge shot, a full-speed encounter with a tree trunk, and a bounce off a cart path. At the end of the round, the ball had only minor cosmetic blemishes and was still perfectly playable. A softer urethane ball would have shown significant scuffs and cuts and would likely have been retired from play.

This impressive resilience means a single sleeve—or even a single ball—can last much longer for the average golfer, further enhancing its incredible value. If you hate the feeling of seeing your expensive golf ball get shredded by a single wedge shot from a sandy bunker, the long lasting golf balls design of the Distance+ is an excellent and cost-effective solution.

The “Plus” Alignment Aid: Gimmick or Genuinely Helpful?

I was skeptical at first, but the “Plus” stamp on the side of the ball is more than just a logo; it’s a functional alignment aid that I found genuinely useful. This simple crosshair design provides a clear visual reference to ensure your putter face is perfectly square to your intended starting line.

While many players take the time to draw a line on their ball with a marker, this built-in feature saves time and provides a consistent, clean look every time. During my putting tests, I felt an extra bit of confidence standing over the ball, knowing it was aimed precisely where I wanted it to go. For players who struggle with consistent alignment on the greens, this small but thoughtful feature adds real, tangible value.

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What Real Users Say: Customer Experiences & Feedback Analysis

Across hundreds of verified user reviews, the consensus is clear: golfers love the TaylorMade Distance+ for its exceptional yardage and budget-friendly price. Many players report noticeable gains in driver distance and a straighter ball flight. The most common praise focuses on its outstanding durability and value, while the primary criticism is the expected lack of greenside spin and a firmer feel compared to premium balls.

Here’s a summary of the most common themes from customer feedback:

1. Distance Gains are Real: The most frequent comment from users is that the ball lives up to its name. Players with moderate swing speeds consistently report that this ball provides impressive distance, helping them reach parts of the fairway they previously couldn’t.
2. Incredible Value for Money: Golfers constantly praise the ball’s performance relative to its cost, often calling it the best value golf ball on the market. This sentiment is echoed by beginners and experienced players alike who don’t want to spend a fortune on balls.
3. Surprisingly Durable: Many verified buyer reviews highlight how the Ionomer cover resists scuffs and cuts. Users are thrilled that they can play the same ball for multiple rounds without seeing significant damage, even after hitting obstacles.
4. Straight Ball Flight is a Game-Changer: Players who fight a slice or a hook often find a friend in the Distance+. They appreciate the low-spin nature of the ball with longer clubs, which helps them find more fairways and build confidence.
5. Honest About Feel and Spin: Experienced users confirm the findings of my test. While some enjoy the crisp feedback, others note the feel is noticeably firmer than a urethane tour ball. They acknowledge that you can’t have maximum distance at this price without sacrificing high spin rates, confirming the ball tends to roll out on chips and pitches—the expected trade-off.
6. Alignment Aid is a Surprise Hit: The built-in “Plus” alignment stamp is frequently mentioned in real golf ball experience reviews as a surprisingly helpful feature that genuinely improves putting consistency and confidence.

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✅ What We Loved: TaylorMade Distance+ Pros

After 45 days of testing, the standout pros of the TaylorMade Distance+ are its explosive distance and exceptional value. The REACT™ Speed Core consistently produced high ball speeds for impressive yardage off the tee. Furthermore, its durable Ionomer cover withstood multiple rounds with minimal scuffing, making it one of the longest-lasting balls we’ve tested in the value category.

✅ Explosive Distance Off the Tee
This is its #1 job, and it does it exceptionally well. The REACT™ Speed Core and aerodynamic dimple pattern work in perfect harmony to maximize yardage. In our tests, it consistently produced a high launch and low spin with the driver, a combination that leads to powerful, penetrating drives that seem to hang in the air forever and then roll out for even more total distance.

✅ Incredible Durability and Longevity
The Ionomer cover is tough as nails. We intentionally hit trees and cart paths during our testing, and I was consistently shocked at how well the ball’s cover held up. For the average golfer, this means a single ball can easily last for several rounds, making a dozen go a very long way and significantly enhancing its overall value.

✅ Outstanding Value for Money
This ball offers performance that punches far above its price tag. You get 90% of the distance of a premium tour ball for a fraction of the cost. For golfers who lose several balls per round or simply don’t see the benefit in spending a fortune, the TaylorMade Distance+ provides reliable, long-distance performance without the financial sting.

✅ Forgiving Low-Spin Flight
For the many amateur golfers who battle a slice or a hook, the low-spin design of the Distance+ is a game-changer. It helps reduce sidespin on mishits, which translates directly to straighter shots. I found my misses were much more manageable, often ending up in the first cut of rough instead of deep in the trees.

✅ Genuinely Useful Alignment Aid
The simple “Plus” alignment stamp is a fantastic feature that I used on every single putt. It makes lining up putts quick, easy, and consistent, giving you more confidence that you’re starting the ball on your intended line. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.

✅ High, Easy Launch with Irons
Getting the ball airborne with mid and long irons can be a challenge for many players. The TaylorMade Distance+ is designed to help. It promotes a high launch angle across all clubs, helping players get the ball up in the air easily to maximize carry distance on approach shots and hold more greens.

✅ Great Performance in the Wind
An underrated benefit of a low-spin ball is how well it performs in windy conditions. The penetrating flight of the Distance+ helps it bore through the wind effectively, holding its line better than a higher-spinning ball which can get knocked around.

✅ Pleasant Feel for a Distance Ball
While it’s firmer than a tour ball, the feel is not harsh. It provides a satisfying “click” that gives you solid feedback without feeling like a rock. I found the feel off the putter to be responsive and consistent.

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❌ What Could Be Better: TaylorMade Distance+ Cons

No golf ball is perfect, and the TaylorMade Distance+ makes specific design trade-offs to achieve its primary goals of distance and durability. The primary drawback is its limited greenside spin, a deliberate choice for maximizing distance. On chips and pitches, the ball tends to release and roll out more than premium urethane balls, requiring players to adjust their short game.

❌ Very Limited Greenside “Stopping Power”
This is the most significant compromise and a characteristic of almost all balls in the budget distance category. The firm Ionomer cover and two-piece construction do not generate high spin rates on short wedge shots. You will not be able to hit high-spinning pitches that “drop and stop” next to the pin.
Workaround: This is easily manageable with a slight change in strategy. You must play for the roll-out. Plan to land your chip and pitch shots shorter than you normally would with a high-spin ball and let the ball release towards the hole like a putt.

❌ Firmer Feel at Impact
While TaylorMade calls the feel “ultra-soft,” this is relative to other two-piece distance balls. Compared to any multi-layer urethane ball, the Distance+ has a noticeably firmer, more “clicky” feel, especially with the putter and on delicate chips. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing—some players prefer this crisp audio feedback—but if you love a buttery-soft feel above all else, this isn’t the ball for you. This con primarily affects players who are highly sensitive to feel.

❌ Not Optimized for Extremely Fast Swing Speeds
This is a minor issue that affects only a small percentage of golfers. Players with very high swing speeds (e.g., 115+ mph with a driver) might “over-compress” this 77-compression ball. This can lead to a slight loss of efficiency and potentially less distance than a higher-compression tour ball designed for those speeds. This ball is engineered for the vast majority of golfers with slow-to-moderate swing speeds.

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TaylorMade Distance+ vs. Alternatives: How Does It Compare?

Compared to its main rival, the Titleist Velocity, the TaylorMade Distance+ offers a slightly softer feel and a more helpful built-in alignment aid, though the Velocity is often considered marginally more durable. Both are elite distance balls that trade greenside spin for maximum yardage. Against the Callaway Warbird, the Distance+ provides a similar low-spin, high-launch formula, making the choice largely dependent on brand preference and feel.

Here’s a quick look at how the TaylorMade Distance+ stacks up against other popular budget distance golf balls.

Feature/Aspect	TaylorMade Distance+	Titleist Velocity	Callaway Warbird	Noodle Long & Soft
Construction	2-Piece	2-Piece	2-Piece	2-Piece
Cover Material	Ionomer	NaZ+ Ionomer	Ionomer	Ionomer
Core	REACT™ Speed Core	High Speed LSX Core	High Energy Core	Ultra-Soft 34 Compression Core
Key Feature	Max Distance + Alignment	Pure Speed + Durability	Max Distance + High Launch	Ultra-Soft Feel + Straighter Flight
Best For	All-around value & distance	Purest distance seekers	High launch & long carry seekers	Players wanting the softest possible feel
Our Rating	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.1/5 ⭐

The TaylorMade Distance+ firmly establishes itself as a leader in the crowded budget distance category. Its most direct competitor is the Titleist Velocity. The Velocity is an absolute rocket off the tee, engineered for pure speed. In my experience, the Velocity feels a touch firmer, while the Distance+ offers a slightly more pleasant feel and the superior Plus alignment aid. Both will give you exceptional yardage and require you to play for roll-out around the greens.

When comparing TaylorMade Distance+ vs Callaway Warbird, you find another ball built on a similar principle: a high-energy core and a 2-piece design to maximize ball speed and launch. The choice between these two often comes down to brand loyalty and which ball’s feel and flight characteristics you personally prefer.

Finally, compared to its sibling from the same brand, the Noodle Long & Soft, the choice is clearer. The Distance+ is built for more speed and raw distance thanks to its firmer core. The Noodle, with its ultra-low 34 compression, is laser-focused on providing the softest possible feel. If you prioritize soft feel above all else, the Noodle is a great choice; if you want to squeeze out every last yard, the Distance+ is the superior option.

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Is the TaylorMade Distance+ Worth the Money? Value Analysis

Yes, the TaylorMade Distance+ is absolutely worth the money for the right player. If you are a beginner, a high-handicapper, or simply a budget-conscious golfer whose main goal is to add distance and hit straighter shots, this ball offers arguably the best performance-per-dollar in golf. The distance and durability you get for the price are unmatched.

Price Positioning

The TaylorMade Distance+ is positioned firmly in the budget-friendly or “value” category of golf balls. It typically costs less than half the price of premium, multi-layer tour balls like the TaylorMade TP5 or Titleist Pro V1. This makes it an incredibly accessible option for the vast majority of amateur golfers who can’t or don’t want to spend a premium on golf balls.

Feature-to-Cost Analysis

For its affordable price, the Distance+ is packed with legitimate technology. You are getting TaylorMade’s proprietary REACT™ Speed Core and an advanced 342-dimple aerodynamic pattern—features designed for the primary purpose of hitting the ball farther. The inclusion of the genuinely useful Plus alignment aid is another feature you don’t always find on balls in this price tier, adding significant value.

Long-Term Value Consideration

The exceptional durability of the Ionomer cover is a massive factor in its long-term value. Unlike soft urethane balls that can be rendered unusable after a single bad shot into a tree or cart path, the Distance+ can easily last for multiple rounds. This means you will buy balls less frequently, making the total cost of ownership extremely low over the course of a season. The value proposition is not just the low upfront cost, but its longevity.

However, if you are a low-handicap player who relies on high spin for precise greenside control, the money saved on this ball won’t be worth the strokes you might lose around the green from the lack of stopping power.

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FAQs: Common Questions About TaylorMade Distance+

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about this popular golf ball.

Are TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls good?

Yes, TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls are very good for their target audience. They excel in providing maximum distance, a durable cover, and a straight, low-spin ball flight, all at a budget-friendly price. They are an excellent choice for beginners, high-handicappers, and any player looking for more yards off the tee without paying for a premium tour ball.

What is the compression of TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls?

The TaylorMade Distance+ has a compression rating of 77. This is considered a medium compression, which is ideal for the average golfer with a moderate swing speed (roughly 85-105 mph). This rating allows most players to effectively compress the core at impact, which is essential for maximizing energy transfer and achieving the high ball speeds it’s designed for.

Are TaylorMade Distance Plus golf balls suitable for high handicappers?

Yes, they are perfectly suitable—and highly recommended—for high handicappers. The two main struggles for many high handicappers are a lack of distance and a tendency to slice or hook the ball. The Distance+ ball directly addresses both issues. Its low-spin design helps minimize sidespin to produce straighter shots, while its high-energy core is engineered to maximize yardage, even on less-than-perfect strikes.

Do TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls offer good value?

They offer outstanding value. The TaylorMade Distance+ is widely considered one of the best value golf balls on the market. It provides distance and durability comparable to much more expensive balls for a fraction of the cost. Because the cover is so resistant to scuffs and cuts, a single dozen will last the average golfer much longer than a dozen premium balls, making the overall investment very low.

Is TaylorMade Distance+ a two-piece golf ball?

Yes, the TaylorMade Distance+ is a two-piece golf ball. This simple, effective construction consists of a single large, high-energy core (the REACT™ Speed Core) and a durable outer layer (the Ionomer cover). This two-piece design is the standard for distance-focused golf balls as it is highly efficient at converting swing speed into ball speed while reducing spin.

How does the TaylorMade Distance+ compare to Callaway Supersoft?

The TaylorMade Distance+ is primarily built for maximum speed and distance, whereas the Callaway Supersoft is engineered for an extremely soft feel and straighter flight. The Distance+ has a firmer compression (77) compared to the ultra-low compression of the Supersoft (around 38). If your number one priority is gaining every possible yard, choose the Distance+. If you prefer the softest possible feel and maximum forgiveness, the Callaway Supersoft is the better option.

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Final Verdict: Should You Buy the TaylorMade Distance+? Who It’s Perfect For

After weeks of testing, my recommendation is clear. If you are a golfer looking to add yards to your game and want a ball that will last, all without breaking the bank, you should absolutely buy the TaylorMade Distance+.

Perfect for you if…

• ✅ You have a slow to moderate swing speed (under 105 mph with your driver).
• ✅ Your primary goal is to hit the ball farther and straighter off the tee.
• ✅ You are a beginner, a high-handicapper, or a casual golfer who plays for fun.
• ✅ You are tired of losing expensive premium balls and want a durable, affordable alternative that still performs.
• ✅ You play a “chip and run” style short game and don’t rely on high backspin to score.

Also Great For…

This ball is also an excellent choice for winter golf or playing on courses where you are likely to lose balls. Its durability and low cost take the stress out of playing in challenging conditions. The high-visibility yellow version is particularly great for finding your ball in the rough or in overcast weather.

Not the Best Choice If… (Keep Brief)

• ❌ You have a very fast swing speed (110+ mph).
• ❌ Your scoring relies on hitting high-spin wedge shots that stop quickly.
• ❌ You prioritize a soft, buttery feel above all else.

Better Alternative Recommendation

For players in those scenarios, we recommend a urethane-covered ball like the TaylorMade Tour Response. It offers a great blend of distance and the higher spin rates needed for precise short-game control, acting as a perfect bridge between value and tour-level performance.

If you identify with the player who needs more distance, more durability, and more money left in your wallet, the TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Balls earns our highest recommendation as the best value distance ball on the market in 2026. It delivers on its promises and is a fantastic tool to make the game more enjoyable.

Last update on 2026-02-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API