A head-to-head look at two of the top drivers in the Every18 index — scores, fit, estimated used price, and which one to buy.
2024 Drivers
2025 Drivers
The Cobra DARKSPEED and the PING G440 Max / LST / SFT are dead even on overall Every18 score (97 each), so the decision comes down to how they differ underneath. The Cobra DARKSPEED is both the cheaper buy (about $385 used vs $530) and the stronger value pick, which makes it the safer choice if budget matters. They split the two traits most golfers care about: the Cobra DARKSPEED is the more forgiving drivers, while the PING G440 Max / LST / SFT is the faster one — so pick the trait your game needs most. Bottom line: choose the Cobra DARKSPEED if you fit its profile (low-profile speed); choose the PING G440 Max / LST / SFT if you lean toward lighter speed.
| Metric | Cobra DARKSPEED | PING G440 Max / LST / SFT |
|---|---|---|
| Every18 score | 97 | 97 |
| Forgiveness | 94 ✓ | 85 |
| Speed | 79 | 86 ✓ |
| Feel | 80 ✓ | 69 |
| Value rating | 79 ✓ | 72 |
| Est. used price | $385 ✓ | $530 |
| Value index | 106 ✓ | 77 |
| Launch | Low to mid | High |
| Spin | Low | Mid to high |
| Fit profile | Low-profile speed | Lighter speed |
Scores, value indexes, and prices are Every18 editorial estimates for comparison. Verify exact specifications, configuration, condition, and market price before purchasing.
The two are level on overall Every18 score (97 out of 100), so neither is clearly "better." The Cobra DARKSPEED suits low-profile speed, while the PING G440 Max / LST / SFT suits lighter speed.
The Cobra DARKSPEED scores higher on the Every18 value index. Estimated used prices are about $385 for the Cobra DARKSPEED and $530 for the PING G440 Max / LST / SFT, so the Cobra DARKSPEED is also the cheaper buy.
The Cobra DARKSPEED rates higher for forgiveness (94 vs 85), which usually helps mid- and higher-handicap players hold more fairways and greens.
See how these stack up against the rest of the field.
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