TaylorMade TP5 vs TP5x: Which Should You Play?

The TP5 vs TP5x decision is not about choosing the better golf ball. It is about choosing the flight, feel and spin profile that better matches your game. Both are premium TaylorMade tour balls, but they are deliberately separated so golfers can choose between a softer all-round response and a firmer, higher-launching alternative.

Written by Michael Miller — Managing Director of ReUse Golf Balls and a competitive golfer with a handicap of 3.

Last updated: 6/8/2026

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TP5 vs TP5x at a Glance

Feature	TP5	TP5x
Feel	Softer	Firmer
Typical launch	Mid	Higher
Long-game profile	Balanced	Speed / higher flight
Short-game choice	For golfers preferring softer feedback	For golfers preferring firmer feedback
Best for	Players wanting a softer tour feel	Players wanting higher flight and firmer response

The TP5 in Detail

TP5 is generally the softer-feeling ball in the family. It suits golfers who value feedback on wedges and putts and prefer a more muted strike than TP5x. Its multi-layer construction is designed to balance speed, flight and spin across the bag.

The TP5x in Detail

TP5x generally provides a firmer response and higher flight. It may suit golfers who want more speed from the long game, prefer a more solid strike or need help increasing trajectory. Avoid claiming it is automatically longer for every player because launch and spin conditions differ.

Which One Is Right for Your Game?

Choose TP5 first when soft feel and balanced flight are the priorities. Choose TP5x first when a firmer feel and higher launch are more appealing. Handicap alone should not decide the choice: a 15-handicap golfer with plenty of speed may prefer TP5x, while a low handicapper may prefer the feel of TP5.

The practical approach is to play both on the same course, compare driver flight, iron stopping power, wedge control and putting feel, and then commit to the one that produces the clearest overall benefit.

The Used-Ball Advantage

Buying professionally graded used TP5 and TP5x balls makes the test far less expensive. A golfer can buy a smaller quantity of each, compare them in real play and still spend less than buying two new dozens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is TP5 or TP5x better for average golfers?

TP5 often suits golfers who prefer a softer feel and balanced flight, while TP5x may suit those wanting a firmer response and higher flight. The better option is the one that produces the preferred trajectory and short-game feel.

Which spins more, TP5 or TP5x?

Spin differences depend on the shot and model generation.

What do the professionals play?

Tour professionals use both models depending on their launch, spin and feel requirements.

Is the Pix version different?

Pix mainly changes the visual alignment and feedback design.