Out of all the best cheap golf balls, the winner is the Bridgestone e12 Contact. It offers great greenside control, lowered backspin on long shots, and reduced side spin for straighter shots.
Contents
- Top 3 Best Golf Balls
- How I Reviewed These Balls
- 10 Best Cheap Golf Balls 2024
- 1. Best Overall – Bridgestone e12 Contact
- 2. Most Affordable – Callaway Warbird
- 3. Best for Slow Swing Speeds – Callaway Supersoft
- 4. Highest Launching – Srixon Soft Feel
- 5. Best for High Handicappers – TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft
- 6. Longest – TaylorMade Distance+
- 7. Most Durable – Titleist Velocity
- 8. Straightest – Maxfli Straightfli
- 9. Best Feel – Titleist TruFeel
- 10. Lowest Spinning – Pinnacle Soft
- What To Consider When Purchasing Good Cheap Golf Balls
- What are the Characteristics Of a Low-Price Golf Ball?
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Top 3 Best Golf Balls
Best Overall | Lowest Price | Longest | |
Bridgestone e12 Contact | Callaway Warbird | TaylorMade Distance+ | |
Pros |
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Cons |
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Price Score | 89.1 | 98.5 | 95.1 |
Spin | 94.2 | 78.1 | 79.1 |
Distance | 92.1 | 91.8 | 91.2 |
Flight | 94.7 | 93.2 | 92.8 |
Rating | 4.5 Stars | 4.5 Stars | 4 Stars |
But buying a cheap golf ball could hurt your game if you get the wrong one for your swing. Don’t miss the details below as I cover each one and share my experience with them.
How I Reviewed These Balls
I currently play with the Callaway Supersoft and Noodle Long and Soft. Another team member added his take on the Warbird and Noodle, as he’s used them many times out on the course.
I then thoroughly researched and evaluated the balls shared below. Then, an editor fact-checked the list. Finally, we conduct regular content audits to update and revise our reviews to ensure you receive the latest information.
To select these balls, I considered these criteria: cost, distance, forgiveness, durability, spin, feel, colors, and control.
Golfspan can bring these reviews to you through the small commissions we earn if you buy through the links below.
Read more: Best Golf Balls for the Average Golfer
10 Best Cheap Golf Balls 2024
1. Best Overall – Bridgestone e12 Contact
Pros
- Increases friction at impact
- Boosts energy transfer on rapid ball speed
- Lowers backspin on long shots
- The mantle reduces side spin for straighter results
- It provides a better greenside control
Cons
- It is priced at the top end of the cheap golf balls market
- The thick cover reduces feedback
Specifications
- Price Range Per Dozen: $25-$35
- Type: Distance
- Construction: 3-piece
- Cover Material: Ionomer
- Compression: Mid
I found the Bridgestone e12 Contact to be the best cheap golf ball overall in 2024.
The Gradational Compression Core is the engine of the e12 and encourages increased energy transfer and reduced spin at impact. As a result, you generate explosive ball speed for a high, powerful launch.
Next, I appreciated the sidespin reduction induced by the mantle, which sits between the cover and the core. The spin reduction helped me achieve straighter ball flight for improved accuracy.
Finally, the Contact Force Dimple pattern raises friction by 38% for a pure strike, leading to a better feel in your short game. This is also the best, cheapest 3-piece golf ball on the list.
Rating: 4.5
2. Most Affordable – Callaway Warbird
Pros
- Affordable for all golfers
- It generates a rampant ball pace
- The aerodynamics fight drag
- It prompts a high launch
- Produces greater distance
Cons
- Rock hard feel
- It provides limited greenside spin
Specifications
- Price Range Per Dozen: $18-$22
- Type: Distance
- Construction: 2-piece
- Cover Material: Ionomer
- Compression: High
The 2-piece Callaway Warbird distance ball is the lowest-priced golf ball on the list, yet it doesn’t skimp on features. It helps with high ball flight, rapid velocity, and optimal distance.
Modern technology has only improved it, and its extra-large high-energy core compresses easier.
Despite its high rating, the enlarged design promotes exceptional energy transfer from the clubface to the ball, leading to an accelerated pace. I noticed this feature paired well with the drag-resistant Hex Aerodynamics, which elevated the launch for greater carry distance.
Ultimately, it is ideal for a slower swing speed.
Rating: 4.5
3. Best for Slow Swing Speeds – Callaway Supersoft
Pros
- Produces ample compression at impact
- Launches high
- Prompts a soft landing on approach
- Available in 6 colors
- Generates rampant ball pace
Cons
- Not ideal for moderate or fast swing speeds
- Produces limited spin
Specifications
- Price Range Per Dozen: $23-$27
- Type: Distance
- Construction: 2-piece
- Cover Material: Ionomer Hybrid Paraloid
- Compression: Low
So far, our list has centered around moderate compression golf balls better suited to medium swing speeds. The Supersoft is my pick for the best budget golf balls for slow swing speeds, thanks to its increased pace, low spin, and high flight.
The low-compression rated Supersoft helps slow swing speeds produce increased spring off the clubface for exceptional pace and an elevated launch. Also, the Soft Compression Core lowers spin for greater distance and straighter flight.
The classic Callaway Hex Aerodynamics are applied to the ionomer golf ball cover to restrict drag and elevate lift. This helped me deliver consistent carry distance and a soft landing on approach.
Find more easy striking balls in our review on the best low-compression golf balls for seniors.
Rating: 4
4. Highest Launching – Srixon Soft Feel
Pros
- Launches high
- Reduces spin
- Boosts ball velocity
- Produces consistent carry distance
- Available in two colors
Cons
- Minimal short-game spin
- Not the most durable golf ball
Specifications
- Price Range Per Dozen: $20-$25
- Type: Distance
- Construction: 2-piece
- Cover Material: Ionomer
- Compression: Mid
High handicappers will welcome the drag-resistant qualities of the Srixon Soft Feel, which ensures a frequent high launch. Added to its impressive launch capabilities, the Soft Feel provides ample compression at impact for an increased pace.
The 338 Speed Dimple layout is my favorite feature. This component fights drag for increased launch and a highball flight. While it lacks spin, the increased trajectory prompted an aggressive descent for a soft landing.
Srixon engineers concocted the Softest FastLayer Core, which helps the ball snap back off the clubface for optimal compression. This armed me with a combination of rampant velocity and low spin. This makes it one of the best amateur golf balls.
Rating: 4
5. Best for High Handicappers – TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft
Pros
- It encourages straighter ball flight
- Suits slow swing speed
- Produces optimal compression at impact
- Generates rampant ball speed
- Lowers spin
Cons
- No greenside spin
- They do not suit moderate or high swing speeds
Specifications
- Price Range Per Dozen: $23-$27
- Type: Distance
- Construction: w-piece
- Cover Material: Ionomer
- Compression: Low
The TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft has aerodynamic dimples, which help high handicappers with slow swing speeds.
The Impact Propulsion Core promotes maximum compression at contact for enhanced ball velocity. In addition, I noticed the core paired with the durable ionomer cover to restrict spin for a high launch and consistent carry distance.
My shots with a Noodle travel relatively straight and the impact of mishits was mitigated. In my experience, the 342 aerodynamic patterns really do help cut through the air for uninterrupted flight and superior carry distance.
Rating: 3.5
6. Longest – TaylorMade Distance+
Pros
- Exceptional distance
- It produces ample roll
- Minimizes long-game spin
- Boosts ball speed
- Limits drag
Cons
- Minimal greenside spin
- Not ideal for slow swing speeds
Specifications
- Price Range Per Dozen: $18-$22
- Type: Distance
- Construction: 2-piece
- Cover Material: Ionomer
- Compression: Mid
In my experience, the TaylorMade Distance+ is awarded the longest of the best bargain golf balls.
The React Speed Core is the centerpiece, working to accelerate the ball pace and limit driver spin for greater length off the tee.
Next, I appreciated the drag-resistant work of the aerodynamic dimple pattern. The result was higher ball flight and improved carry distance. Furthermore, the lower spin rate propelled the ball to roll intentionally, giving me extra yards on the ground.
Like the other distance golf balls, the lower spin proved detrimental around the greens and on approach. Superior golfers will rue these qualities, but it works for the average golfer with a moderate swing speed.
Rating: 4
7. Most Durable – Titleist Velocity
Pros
- Durable golf ball cover
- Generates rampant ball speed
- Restricts spin on long game strikes
- Provides a playable greenside feel
- Best suited to moderate swing speeds
Cons
- It is priced higher than its peers
- Lower spin on approach and wedge shots than I like.
Specifications
- Price Range Per Dozen: $30-$35
- Type: Distance
- Construction: 2-piece
- Cover Material: NAZ + Ionomer
- Compression: Mid
The Titleist Velocity is a well-deserved category winner thanks to its durable LSX Core and NAZ+ cover.
This ball suits average swing speeds, seeking added ball zip and a high trajectory. The LSX Core enhanced energy transfer sped up my ball pace for a considerable long game distance.
In addition, the NAZ+ ionomer cover escalates ball speed and lowers spin on long game strikes. Conversely, it offers greater friction and a playable feel around the greens.
I enjoyed the ball’s 350 Octahedral dimple design. I noticed it fought drag on the up to reach a high apex and promote superb carry yards.
Rating: 4
8. Straightest – Maxfli Straightfli
Pros
- It flies 20% straighter than previous Maxfli golf balls
- Promotes rampant speed on long shots
- Lowers driver spin
- Forgiving
- Affordable
Cons
- It provides limited friction on putts and wedge shots
- Eradicates workability
Specifications
- Price Range Per Dozen: $26-$30
- Type: Distance
- Construction: 2-piece
- Cover Material: Ionomer
- Compression: Mid
You may find it tough to produce accurate shots as a high handicapper, causing you to spend time in dodgy lies on the golf course. The Maxfli Straightfli’s precise dimple pattern helps less talented players with moderate swing speeds to stay in play.
The standout feature of this two-layer golf ball is its Find The Fairway dimple pattern, which Maxfli suggests flies 20% straighter than their previous models. In my experience, the dimple pattern limited the impact of a hook or slice for greater accuracy.
The ball, one of the best value golf balls, is not the holy grail, but it does minimize the outcome of your mistakes.
Rating: 4
9. Best Feel – Titleist TruFeel
Pros
- Very soft feel
- Greenside control
- Offers great distance
Cons
- The most expensive of the budget balls on the list
Specifications
- Price Range Per Dozen: $24-$29
- Type: Distance
- Construction: 2-piece
- Cover Material: Surlyn/Ionomer
- Compression: Low
This is our pick for the best-feeling ball for those on a budget. Now, it is the priceiest on the list so that it will be at the upper end of your budget. However, we judge that to be for good reason.
TruFeel technology supports this ball really well. The TruTouch low compression core offers low spin levels and lots of distance. The distance is enhanced by the TruFit aerodynamics. A symmetrically optimized pattern enhances long-game distance.
Also, with these soft golf balls, you get lots of greenside control thanks to the soft TruFlex cover.
Rating: 4
10. Lowest Spinning – Pinnacle Soft
Pros
- Low spin for optimal long-game distance
- Produces impressive ball speed
- Generates maximum compression at impact
- Delivers optimal distance
- Resists drag
Cons
- Offers limited control around the green
- Durability is questionable
Specifications
- Price Range Per Dozen: $24-$29
- Type: Distance
- Construction: 2-piece
- Cover Material: Ionomer
- Compression: Low
Low spin is essential to produce a consistent, long golf shot. My lowest spinning best low-cost golf balls are the Pinnacle Soft thanks to its backspin resisting ionomer cover. Besides its spin limitations, it produces rampant ball zip and drag-resistant flight for consistent carry distance.
This 2-piece Pinnacle golf ball carries a super low compression rating, a dream for slow swing speeds. I find it easy for slower-swinging golfers to generate consistent ball speed and low spin for an optimal lift.
The final puzzle piece is the 332 Icosahedral dimples scattered around the ionomer cover. In my experience, the dimple design resisted drag, improved lift, and kept the ball flying uninterrupted.
Overall, the Pinnacle Soft is an easy-launching golf ball that gives slow swing speeds the distance boost they desire.
Find more of the best low-spin golf balls in our dedicated guide for 2024.
Rating: 3
What To Consider When Purchasing Good Cheap Golf Balls
Layers
Cheap golf balls typically include two layers, but you can find designs with a third. Two-piece golf balls deliver minimal greenside spin because the core promotes rapid ball speed and low spin.
Conversely, a 3-piece golf ball consists of a core, mantle, and cover. The mantle further reduces spin for improved distance and accuracy.
Compression Score
The compression score of a ball impacts your ball speed and spin capabilities. The lower the rating is, the more a ball compresses against the clubface at impact for an increased pace.
Low-compression golf balls carry a rating from 30 to 60, and mid-compression golf balls stop short of 90. Anything beyond 90 is a high compression score, and the balls are generally better for fast swing speeds. With that logic, low-compression golf balls best favor slow swing speeds.
Ball Flight
As you inspect different cheap golf balls, you notice they are generally geared towards producing high flight for optimal carry distance. While this is a common theme, you must consider the shape that best suits you.
If you struggle with accuracy, think about a golf ball with straighter flight, like the Maxfli Straightfli, with its “Find The Fairway” dimple pattern. Alternatively, you could consider the Titleist Velocity for a more workable ball flight.
Read More: Best Golf Balls For Women
What are the Characteristics Of a Low-Price Golf Ball?
- 2-3 layers
- Ionomer or surlyn covers
- Often, they are low-compression golf balls
- Little less distance than an expensive ball
- Usually spin less than pricier balls
Read more: You could also get a used golf ball.
FAQ
What Are The Best Low-Cost Golf Balls?
The overall best low-cost golf balls are the Bridgestone e12 Contact, thanks to its straight flight, explosive ball speed, and consistent spin. In addition, the TaylorMade Distance+ is the longest of the cheapest golf balls.
Do Cheap Golf Balls Make A Difference?
Yes, cheap golf balls make a difference, as most are designed for distance purposes. The best low-cost golf balls are typically 2-piece constructions with an ionomer cover that restricts spin for maximum distance.
While the spin reduction aids your long game, it leads to reduced greenside control, making it difficult to stop your ball rapidly. Conversely, expensive golf balls carry three or more layers that deliver low spin off the tee and high spin around the green.
How Much Should I Spend On A Golf Ball?
The average golfer should spend no more than $2.50 on a golf ball, or it is a senseless purchase. At this price per unit, a box costs you $30, and that is as high as you should go.
However, if you are a low handicapper searching for precision, you could opt to spend more on premium urethane constructions.
Are Refurbished Golf Balls Okay?
Refurbished golf balls are okay for weekend warriors who lose countless balls every round and are unphased by imperfections. However, serious golfers should avoid refurbished balls as they do not possess the performance capabilities they once did.
What Is The Best Cheap Golf Ball?
The overall best cheap golf ball is the Bridgestone e12 Contact for its direct ball flight, consistent spin rate, and accelerated ball speed.
Conclusion
There is your answer on how to reduce golf ball expenses during this time of rising costs. You have ten quality golf balls to choose from that deliver a high launch, accelerated ball speed, low spin, and consistent flight.
In my experience, the Overall best cheap golf balls in 2024 are the Bridgestone e12 Contact for overall performance. This 3-piece construction prompts increased friction for a better feel on short shots and rapid ball speed off the tee. Plus, its Gradational Compression core restricts spin on long shots.
If you are on a tighter budget, the long-traveling and entry-level Callaway Warbird golf balls are worth testing. Finally, the longest cheap good golf balls this year are the TaylorMade Distance+.
If price is no issue for your wallet, you can choose from a heap of the best golf balls waiting for you to learn about.
Matt has played golf since he was 4 years old and has written over 150 articles at GolfSpan since 2021. Matt specializes in product reviews using his postgraduate degree in Sports Marketing from Johan Cruyff Institute. Matt has a handicap index of 10.8 and currently plays weekly at Pilar Golf Course near his home in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He also loves his Callaway Odyssey Exo Rossie putter and likes a pepper steak pie with curry gravy at the turn. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.