tour response vs tp5

Taylormade Tour Response vs TP5: Choosing the Best Golf Ball for Your Game

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Ever wondered how to choose the perfect golf ball for your game? Picture this: you’re standing on the tee, contemplating between TaylorMade Tour Response and TP5 golf balls. Which one will give you the edge you need to conquer the course? In this article, you’ll uncover the secrets behind these two golf ball giants and how they can elevate your performance on the greens.

Are you tired of feeling uncertain about which golf ball suits your playing style best? Say goodbye to the guesswork and hello to clarity! By comparing TaylorMade Tour Response and TP5 golf balls, you’ll gain valuable insights into their unique features and benefits. Get ready to make an informed decision that could transform your game and take your golfing experience to new heights.

Key Differences between TaylorMade Tour Response and TP5 Golf Balls

When comparing TaylorMade Tour Response and TP5 golf balls, it’s essential to understand the key differences that can impact your game. Here are the main factors to consider:

• Construction :
• Tour Response : Constructed with a three-layer design to optimize distance off the tee and enhance feel and control on approach shots.
• TP5 : Features a five-layer construction that focuses on maximizing spin and control around the greens, offering a different feel than the Tour Response.
• Cover Material :
• Tour Response : Utilizes a soft ionomer cover that provides a blend of distance and control.
• TP5 : Equipped with a urethane cover, known for its exceptional spin control and feel on short game shots.
• Compression :
• Tour Response : Lower compression for a softer feel and added distance, catering to golfers looking for a more forgiving ball.
• TP5 : Higher compression design aims to deliver more energy transfer and ball speed, catering to players seeking precision and control.
• Performance :
• Tour Response : Ideal for golfers seeking a balance of distance and greenside control, fitting a wide range of swing speeds.
• TP5 : Geared towards players wanting maximum control and spin around the green without compromising distance off the tee.

Understanding the distinct characteristics of these golf balls can help you pinpoint which one aligns best with your playing style and preferences.

Construction and Design Features of TaylorMade Tour Response Golf Balls

When it comes to TaylorMade Tour Response golf balls, the construction and design features play a crucial role in shaping their performance on the golf course. Let’s delve into the key aspects that set these golf balls apart:

• Three-Layer Design: The Tour Response balls are crafted with a three-layer design that focuses on optimizing both distance and control in your game. This construction is aimed at providing golfers with a well-rounded performance on the course.
• Soft Ionomer Cover: One of the standout features of the Tour Response golf balls is their soft ionomer cover. This cover material is designed to enhance both distance and control, offering a balanced feel for golfers looking to excel in different aspects of their game.
• Compression: The Tour Response golf balls are known for their softer feel, which can contribute to added distance when struck. This lower compression design is geared towards providing golfers with a unique feel that can translate to improved performance.

In understanding the construction and design features of the TaylorMade Tour Response golf balls, you gain valuable insights into how these elements can impact your playing experience on the golf course.

Construction and Design Features of TP5 Golf Balls

When comparing TaylorMade Tour Response golf balls with TP5 , understanding the construction and design features of each can help you make an informed decision based on your playing preferences.

• Five-Layer Design : TP5 golf balls are known for their innovative five-layer construction, optimizing performance across various aspects of your game.
• Dual-Spin Cover : The TP5 features a soft urethane cover that enhances control and spin around the green, providing versatility for different shot types.
• Gradational Core : With a larger inner core in the TP5, you can expect reduced spin off the driver for longer and straighter shots.

Considering the construction and design features of TP5 golf balls alongside the characteristics of the TaylorMade Tour Response can give you a clearer picture of how each ball may suit your playing style.

Performance Comparison: TaylorMade Tour Response vs. TP5 on the Course

When it comes to performance on the course, TaylorMade Tour Response and TP5 exhibit distinct characteristics that can influence your game. Here’s a breakdown of how these golf balls stack up against each other:

• Distance : TP5 is known for longer distance off the tee due to its low compression and gradational core technology.
• Control : If you prioritize control and spin , TP5 ‘s dual-spin cover can offer you the precision you need on approach shots and around the green.
• Feel : The soft feel of TaylorMade Tour Response appeals to players who value feedback from their shots, enhancing confidence and shot-making abilities.
• Flight : TP5 provides a penetrating flight that can be advantageous in windy conditions, helping you maintain consistency throughout your round.
• Durability : Both balls are designed for durability , ensuring that they can withstand the rigors of numerous rounds without significant wear.

As you assess your priorities on the course, considering factors such as distance , control , feel , flight , and durability can guide you in selecting the golf ball that best aligns with your playing style and preferences.

Which Golf Ball Is Right for You?

When choosing between the TaylorMade Tour Response and TP5 golf balls, consider key factors to match your playing style and preferences:

• If you prioritize distance off the tee: The TP5 stands out for its longer distance capabilities, offering an advantage when looking for maximum yardage.
• For players seeking control and spin: The TP5 ‘s dual-spin cover allows for superior control and spin on approach shots, providing precision when you need it most.
• If you prefer a soft feel and feedback: The TaylorMade Tour Response delivers a soft feel that offers feedback to help you gauge your shots better, enhancing your overall performance on the course.
• When flight stability matters, especially in windy conditions: The TP5 ‘s penetrating flight trajectory makes it an excellent choice for maintaining stability even in challenging weather conditions.
• Looking for durability: Both the TaylorMade Tour Response and TP5 are designed to withstand multiple rounds, ensuring longevity and value for your investment.

With these insights, you can now make an informed decision on which golf ball aligns best with your needs and playing requirements.

When deciding between the TaylorMade Tour Response and TP5 golf balls, consider your priorities. The TP5 stands out for its exceptional distance, control, and flight stability, making it ideal for players seeking top performance. On the other hand, the Tour Response provides a soft feel and valuable feedback, catering to those who prioritize touch and responsiveness. Both balls offer durability and quality construction. Your choice ultimately depends on what aspects of your game you value most. So, whether you prefer the TP5’s long-distance capabilities or the Tour Response’s feedback and feel, make sure to select the ball that aligns best with your playing style and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which golf ball offers longer distance capabilities.

The TP5 golf ball is known for its longer distance capabilities compared to the TaylorMade Tour Response due to its design and construction.

What features make the TP5 stand out?

The TP5 golf ball is highlighted for its control and spin with the dual-spin cover, providing golfers with excellent performance on the course.

Which golf ball offers a soft feel for feedback?

The TaylorMade Tour Response is preferred for its soft feel, allowing golfers to receive feedback on their shots during play.

In what conditions does the TP5’s flight excel?

The TP5 golf ball’s penetrating flight makes it advantageous in windy conditions, providing stability on the course.

Are both golf balls designed for durability?

Yes, both the TaylorMade Tour Response and TP5 golf balls are designed for durability, ensuring longevity and performance on the course.

Which factors are crucial in choosing the right golf ball?

Factors like distance, control, feel, flight, and durability play a vital role in selecting the right golf ball based on individual playing styles and preferences.

What are the strengths of the TP5 compared to the Tour Response?

The TP5 excels in distance, control, and flight stability, offering golfers top-notch performance on the course.

How does the Tour Response differentiate itself from the TP5?

The TaylorMade Tour Response focuses on a soft feel and feedback, catering to golfers who prioritize these aspects in their golf balls.

Meet James Wade, a golf enthusiast and dedicated educator, here at Golf Gladiator. With a deep-rooted love for the game nurtured by his father, James brings a down-to-earth approach to golfing insights. James is here to share practical tips and experiences to enrich your golfing journey.

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Taylormade Tour Response Review – Incredible Feel

I put the new Taylormade Tour Response to the test – This ball feels great! And compared to my experience with Taylormade’s first version, the 2022 Tour Response ball gets significantly more spin around the greens.

I’ve hit thousands of golf balls in the simulator, and I recently compared the Tour Response to the TP5 and ProV1. After getting data from the GC3 and playing a round on the course, here is a summary of what I found.

The new Tour Response still feels amazing, very soft feel

The Tour Response gets a little less spin than both the TP5 and ProV1 around the greens

The Tour Response performs extremely similar to the TP5 and ProV1 with Mid-irons and driver

The Tour Response Stripe is nice to putt, but can be odd out on the fairway

Taylormade Tour Response Golf Ball Review

Taylormade released the initial version of the Tour Response in January 2020. Taylormade attempted to put a “tour” level ball into the hands of the everyday golfer.

The design has changed a bit, the 2022 Tour Response has incorporated the same tour flight dimple pattern you’ll find on their premium ball, the TP5. Taylormade claims this has added “next-level aerodynamics…promoting maximum carry distances”.

I put the Taylormade Tour Response head-to-head with the TP5 and ProV1 . Based on the numbers, they do perform very well. They have a softer feel than both the TP5 and ProV1. In terms of distance performance off the tee and on approach shots, they perform nearly identical.

Around the greens, you’ll lose just a little bit of spin with the Tour Response compared to the TP5 and ProV1, but it’s not much of a difference. I noticed the difference in the numbers on the launch monitor, but couldn’t tell out on the course.

If you opt for the Tour Response Stripe model, I liked it for putting . It made it very easy to line up. Most balls with a single line are really hard to get lined up perfectly. This one felt much easier to line up. I didn’t care for it though when hitting it from the fairway . If you are playing it down, the stripe isn’t so subtle and is seldom aligned the way you’d want it.

You’ll have to decide whether it would be a distraction for you or not.

Quick Facts

The Taylormade Tour Response golf balls are made with 3-piece construction and a single piece 100% urethane cover. They are rated by the USGA as low spin with a driver and high spin with short irons. They have a 322 “Tour Flight” dimple pattern and a very soft feel.

You can get the Taylormade Tour Response golf ball in white or yellow. You can choose the Tour Response stripe model, they are available in green or light blue. You can also opt for a multi-color pack which comes with 3 balls each that are green, red, blue, and burgundy.

They are currently rated 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon from about 1,800 reviews. From those reviews, it is very clear customers appreciate the feel and overall quality of the Tour Response.

Performance:

• Good Distance off the Tee and throughout the bag
• Good greenside spin
• Stripe option can be nice for putting
• You won’t get quite as much spin as other premium golf balls

Who Should Use the Taylormade Tour Response Golf Balls

Due to its higher price point, I would only recommend this golf ball for players with a mid handicap or better. Even mid-handicappers may want to consider other options, however. The Tour Response is on the edge of being considered a “premium ball”, and it is priced accordingly.

It is slightly less expensive than other premium balls, but priced higher than other balls in the mid-range that perform just as well.

Related – Best golf balls for Mid Handicappers

If you are skilled enough to produce spin around the greens and you’re looking for a ball that feels great, I’d say go for it!

I would recommend this ball for players with any swing speed. My testing shows this ball performs well at any swing speed.

The Taylormade Tour Response is featured in my post on the Best Golf Balls for Distance

Taylormade Tour Response vs. TP5 & ProV1

The Tour Response really separates itself with its soft feel. Both the TP5 and ProV1 are considered soft feel golf balls, but compared to the Tour Response, they feel a bit firm.

Highlights of My Best Tee Shots With The Tour Response

This was one of my better tee shots with the Tour Response. 166mph ball speed with a 115mph swing speed and 299 yards carry, I’ll take it all day long on the golf course.

When I took the Tour Speed out to the golf course, I also hit some pretty long drives off the tee. On a short par 4, about 320 yards, I ended up going over the green with roll. I did have a little wind to my back, so that helped a bit, but it was the longest ball I’ve ever hit on that particular hole.

Final Thoughts

The Taylormade Tour Response is one the best feeling golf balls I’ve tested. I was first introduced to them after winning a long drive hole at a local scramble, they were part of the prize pack.

I thought they felt great back then, and my recent testing confirms that. I am not sure I would call them a “Tour ball”, I think any Pro playing a Taylormade golf ball will still opt for the TP5 or TP5x. That being said, for weekend and casual golfers, they will perform well and feel great.

I think they could be priced $5 – $10 cheaper, but if you are partial to Taylormade, it is a great option for a slight discount on the premium end.

Good luck on the golf course, and if you have any questions please feel free to reach out or post them below in the comments.

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TaylorMade TP5, TP5x golf balls for 2024: What you need to know

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: The TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x tour-preferred multilayer urethane-cover balls use a new rubber formulation in the core to create more speed with a better sound and feel. The revised five-layer construction now creates a greater separation between the softness of the core and the firmness of the outer mantle. Designers say that difference is crucial to yielding a better combination of low driver spin with high wedge spin.

PRICE: $55 per dozen, in white and yellow. Also offered in an updated Pix visual graphic technology version for both TP5 and TP5x.

3 COOL THINGS

1. The feel of speed. There’s a reason you never hear long-drive guys talk about the feel of a golf ball. They’re only interested in golf ball designs that emphasize speed to the exclusion of all other aspects. That’s generally a problem when you’re designing a golf ball for real golfers because the more resilience (speed) you put into the rubber core of the golf ball, the more it feels like, well, a rock. That’s where the TP5 and TP5x are looking to do something different. The cores utilize a new formulation (in simple terms, it’s less dense but just as energetic) that the company is calling “Speed Wrap” and was developed with Dow Chemical. The result is the two designs can give the target players for each ball a new perception, what the company is calling “decoupling” speed and feel.

“We have a chemistry polymers group who's looking at new rubber compounds and mixing different compounds together, different ingredients, and sometimes you find something that comes out of it like, ‘Oh, wow, this is kind of interesting, something’s happening here,’” said Josh Dipert, TaylorMade’s director of golf ball research and development, who compared the Speed Wrap’s function to that of the Speed Foam in the company’s P•790 irons. Dipert said just as the fill in the hollow iron allowed the faster-flexing face to feel better, so too does the Speed Wrap layer on the new TP5 and TP5x golf balls.

“Typically the ‘5’ guy is always going to focus on feel first and the ‘X’ guy is always going to focus on speed first, but with this technology it gave us the opportunity to increase the speed for the ‘5’ guy and maintain the feel, while the ‘X’ guy is going to get better feel than we were able to get him in the past when we were just pushing for more speed.

“Ultimately, what we’re doing is getting closer and closer to a ball that, depending on what attribute you make a priority, doesn’t have to compromise.”

2. Separate ways. TaylorMade’s golf balls for the last 15 years have taken up a unique position with their five-layer construction. Those layers are designed to optimize performance throughout the bag, activating differently based on the degree of impact ranging from the extreme of a driver to that of a mid-iron to the way the cover reacts with the firmest outer mantle for short-game spin.

In the new TP5 and TP5x, those layers are distinctly different compared to past verssions and feature a new level of progressive firmnesses to create a larger gap, or separation, between the stiffness of the core and the stiffness of the outermost mantle layer. The greater that difference, the theory goes, the greater range can be created between lower spin off the driver and higher spin off the wedges.

“They go from a core compression of 5 to a firmness level in the 90s,” said Michael Fox, TaylorMade’s senior director of product creation for golf balls. “What happens when you have that large a speed gradient is these layers are now truly performing like completely different products.”

3. Dealer’s choice. While there are two primary offerings in the lineup, the TP5 and TP5x come in an array of visual offerings that is nearly limitless, including the company’s alignment format known as Pix, as well as yellow and personalized options through TaylorMade’s MySymbol program.

The TP5 is the softer of the two models, with the TP5x flying higher but with a flatter trajectory and spinning less on tee shots while offering the most ball speed off the driver and irons. The TP5 will offer less spin off the tee than in previous versions but remains the higher spinning around the green of the two models.

The Pix alignment graphic now features a diamond shape and a longer centerline to further facilitate aiming. TaylorMade’s groundbreaking customization options through MySymbol include a USA palette, 22 collegiate logos and 20 retail-exclusive designs.

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TaylorMade Tour Response golf ball review

The new TaylorMade golf ball that does everything you need at a more affordable price...

Fancy saving yourself some dough on what is effectively a softer version of TaylorMade's popular 5-layer TP5 ball? Let us introduce you to the brand's new 3-layer Tour Response. 

Highlighted by a 100% cast urethane cover, TaylorMade Tour Response delivers effortless compression and Tour-quality performance at a more affordable price of £40 per dozen. 

Utilising the same technology that powers the hottest Tour ball in golf (TP5/TP5x), Tour Response relies on Speedmantle with HFMq to produce fast ball speeds. The firmer second layer surrounds the soft inner core and delivers an explosive transfer of energy.

"Urethane is simply the best performing cover material you can use on a golf ball," TaylorMade's director of R&D golf balls Eric Loper tells us. 

"That’s why it’s found on 100% of the balls used on the PGA Tour. It’s that good. We’re bringing that same innovation to our Tour Response line – essentially making a softer version of our TP5/TP5x that utilises multiple Tour technologies."

Ball out the sleeve and in hand, the Tour Response looks and feels every bit like a TP5 or TP5x ball.

The difference, however, is that the 3-layer Tour Response with its 100% urethane cover, has an ultra low 40 compression soft core and a firmer Speedmantle layer that generates increased ball speed and a little more distance. 

This golf ball will not only help you max out your distance on every tee shot out there, but you will also improve your level of backspin with the wedges. 

Control with the irons, certainly when the wind picked up, felt nice enough. The only problem is that when you've used a TP5x in the breeze before, everything else feels like it is playing for second place. 

We are very confident, however, that you could put the Tour Response up against many in the £40 category right now and few (if any) will travel further off the tee or spin more with a wedge. 

The use of cast urethane puts Tour Response a step above other balls in this category and at this price point, as it’s the only non-Tour ball to offer this premium cover from a major manufacturer. It’s a blend of Tour-quality materials with performance specifically engineered to benefit all golfers.

Tour Response is a great golf ball for just about every amateur looking to get the most out of their game. 

If you are a fan of TaylorMade golf balls then we highly recommend you give the Tour Response an outing this summer. We believe that even the most ardent TP5 or TP5x fan might even consider a switch, especially given the slight price drop. 

TP5x will certainly give you much better control with the irons, however, and TP5 will give you that little more workability. 

Tour Response, which is also available in yellow, excels most from the tee with bundles of distance and it spins a load with every wedge in the bag. 

Its alignment aid also adds to its appeal, especially on the greens, and we have found it to be incredibly durable over a couple of rounds now.

TaylorMade's category director of golf balls and accessories, Michael Fox, said: "In this class where performance meets value, why would anyone play an ionomer ball when cast urethane is available? Every manufacturer agrees that it makes a better ball."

We could not agree more with that statement. 

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Is TaylorMade’s 2022 Tour Response the perfect club golfer ball?

Published: 18 March 2022 Last updated: 18 March 2022

The 2022 TaylorMade Tour Response comes in white, stripe and yellow.

TaylorMade reveal improved second-generation of the their hit club golfer Tour Response ball, including a new dimple pattern, revolutionary alignment aid and cast urethane cover.

For years, amateur golfers were starved of credible golf ball options designed specifically for them. Now, average swing speed club golfers now have an abundance of ball choices with all of the big brands spotting the gap in the market and producing tour ball quality models that are right for everyday players.

For us, TaylorMade’s Tour Response has been the best in this category since its first generation  launched back in January 2020… and now there’s a new and improved version.

If you’re not familiar with the Tour Response, don’t be thinking that it is just a cheaper, lower performance alternative to TaylorMade’s tour-level  TP5 . It’s most definitely not.

The 2022 Tour Response comes with the same Tour Flight dimple pattern, the same cast urethane cover and the same mantle material (HFM) as the TP5. The only real difference is that, rather than having the five-layer construction and 87 compression, which allows TaylorMade to dial in the specific spin characteristics that some higher speed players need, the Tour Response has three layers and 70 compression. In layman’s terms, this is a tour quality ball for non-tour players.

The shift towards more club golfer optimised balls has also seen a rise in models that help with alignment. TaylorMade joined that party with great success when they created the  TP5 Pix in 2019, a ball which provides better feedback on alignment and roll. Now they’re bringing alignment tech into the Tour Response with the addition of  ‘Stripe’.

Let’s take a closer look at the new Tour Response.

RELATED:  Best Golf Balls

TaylorMade Tour Response Golf Ball (2022)

RRP £39.99 | BUY NOW: White   –   Yellow   –   Stripe Models  White, Yellow, Stripe |  Cover  Cast Urethane |  Layers Three |  Compression 70

Who is the Tour Response for?

While it has been designed for all club golfers, it’s likely to be adopted with enthusiasm by any golfer who can honestly say, “I’m not good enough to play a tour ball”, “I don’t swing fast enough for a tour ball” or “tour balls are just too expensive for me to play”. From our experience testing the original Tour Response , the model is a very credible alternative to Titleist’s Pro V1 for average speed golfers (that’s 92mph with a driver).

It’s all about the cover

TaylorMade say urethane covered balls are flat-out better performers than ionomer models, and that thinking comes down to how urethane engages more with the grooves of a wedge or iron at impact.  Urethane bites into the grooves, especially around the green, which gives additional spin and control.

Not all urethane covers are equal, though. TaylorMade say the Tour Response is the only sub-£40 ball on the market to have a 100% cast urethane cover, which they argue improves production and performance consistency.

Tour Flight dimples and soft feel

TaylorMade’s TP5 and TP5x balls have Tour Flight dimples and now, so does the Tour Response. By reducing dimple depth but making the bottom area wider, TaylorMade say golfers get reduced drag from launch to peak height, but also more air flowing into each dimple as the ball falls from the sky, which keep shots in the air for longer.

With lots of club golfers loving soft-feeling golf balls, the Tour Response has a 70 compression. TaylorMade say a firmer mantle layer stiffens up performance, so there’s great energy transfer at impact, which prevents the ball losing power through behaving like a marshmallow, which can come from just chasing low compression.

RELATED: How TaylorMade’s revolutionary Stealth performed in our drivers test

360º Clearpath Alignment

Some 40% of the golf balls sold by TaylorMade are now within the “visual space” – that’s anything other than plain white – and it’s a fast-growing area. By 2023 TaylorMade say the figure will be over 50%, which is why their engineers have focused on helping golfers with alignment, feedback, visibility and awareness with the striking new Tour Response Stripe. A 360º stripe around the ball helps visualise the path of putts more easily, and highlights your aim.

TaylorMade know the Stripe won’t float every golfer’s boat, even though they say it can improve putt alignment consistency by 20%, so there will also be plain white and yellow options.

What TaylorMade say about the Tour Response

“Tour Response already separated itself from the competition with overall materials and performance, but now with Tour Response Stripe it will also give golfers the feedback needed to boost their performance on the greens.

“We have seen many professional and recreational golfers take advantage of Clear Path Alignment in our pix golf balls, and now with the 360° design of Tour Response Stripe, alignment aid gets even easier for the everyday golfer.”

You can buy the new Tour Response, now:  White  –  Yellow  –  Stripe

RELATED:  Best Alignment Golf Balls

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rob Jerram is the Digital Editor of  todaysgolfer.co.uk

He has been a journalist for more than 20 years, starting his career with Johnston Press where he covered local and regional news and sport in a variety of editorial roles across ten years.

Rob joined Bauer Media in 2010 and worked as the Senior Production Editor of  Today’s Golfer  and  Golf World  magazines for ten years before moving into the Digital Editor’s role in July 2020.

He has been playing golf for almost three decades and has been a member at Greetham Valley  in Rutland for eight years, playing off a 12 handicap.

Rob uses a Ping G driver , Ping G 3-wood , TaylorMade M5 5-wood , TaylorMade P790 irons (4-PW), Ping Glide 2.0 Stealth wedges (52º, 56º, 60º), Evnroll ER2 putter , and TaylorMade Tour Response golf ball .

You can contact Rob  here .

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2024 TaylorMade TP5 & TP5x Golf Ball Review

• on April 23, 2024

50 Words or Less

The 2024 TaylorMade TP5 & TP5x golf balls are superb Tour-style golf balls.  Performance differences are fairly slim for players without elite speed or high spin.  TP5 is noticeably softer.

Introduction

The shelves are full of Tour-style golf balls, and each one claims to be unique.  The TaylorMade TP5 and TP5X can make that claim with more veracity as the only two 5-piece golf balls on the shelf.  TaylorMade claims that this allows them to make the most complete ball on Tour.  I tested the latest versions to see if it’s true.

Golf balls often feel the same on very short putts, but the TaylorMade TP5 and TP5X show their personalities even at very short distances.  The TP5 sits in that sweet spot between soft and responsive (TaylorMade hasn’t deviated much from the “damn near perfect” TP5 they made in 2018, review HERE ).  Switching to the TP5X , there’s a small but noticeable uptick in firmness .  On longer putts, the TP5X remains more firm and a sound difference appears.  The TP5X produces a “tock”; the TP5 stays a slightly quieter, lower pitched “thud.”

Moving to the wedges and irons, the TaylorMade TP5 remains one of my favorites.  The sound is deep and robust, and it’s soft in the hands.  The TP5X is similar, but it’s a bit louder and the feel is more crisp than soft.  Both of these feel excellent, in my opinion, it’s just a question of what you prefer: soft or responsive.

According to TaylorMade, both the 2024 TP5 and 2024 TP5X have more short game spin than their 2021 counterparts.  They rate the new TP5 to be higher spinning than the TP5X.

In my testing, both balls were above average in short game spin.  This held true from pitch shots through full wedges.  The TaylorMade TP5 does have a slight spin advantage over the TP5X , but, for me, it was only a few hundred RPM.  This is a measurable difference, but I don’t think it would be noticeable on the course.

Interestingly, I found the spin on the TP5X to be slightly more consistent than the TP5.  It’s always possible that this can be accounted for by strike quality or sample size, but I found it difficult to hit a shot with the TP5X that didn’t produce very strong spin.

The advantage passes from the TaylorMade TP5 to the TP5X as we move from the short game to the long game.  Per TaylorMade, the TP5X should have lower driver spin, driver trajectory, and iron spin compared to the TP5.  Additionally, both 2024 models are lower in spin than their 2021 versions .  TaylorMade also promotes the TP5X as being faster than the TP5.

My iron testing revealed a spin difference similar to what I saw with the wedges.  The TP5 produced spin that’s at what I consider average for a Tour-style golf ball.  With the TaylorMade TP5X, my spin was down a couple hundred RPM .  As always, I’ll note that I’m a low spin player.  High spin players may see a bigger difference between models.

Shifting to the driver, the difference in spin was again quite modest.  The TP5X was slightly lower spinning than the TP5, but the gap was under 200 RPM on average.  Similarly, I found slightly more ball speed in the TP5X, but the difference would be hard to notice on the course.  On average, but the TP5X was about 1 MPH faster for me .  Here I’ll note that I’m in that liminal space where my speed is above average but far from elite.  For Rory, I would suspect there’s a significant speed difference between the two models.  For we mortals, a launch monitor is required to find the difference.

TaylorMade TP5 & TP5X Graphic Options

The TaylorMade TP5 and TP5X are being offered with a range of graphics.  White is an option, of course, as is Hi-Vis Yellow.  The focus, however, is on TaylorMade’s pix graphics.  According to TM, these graphics improve visibility, meaning fewer lost balls.

The pix graphics are also a way for golfers to show their personality.  TM will be offering pix USA and pix Collegiate golf balls in 2024.  There will also be limited edition runs like pix Pickle and pix Poker.

Whether you opt for plain white or something visually bolder, the TaylorMade TP5 and TP5X are high performing golf balls that excel in every facet of the game.  For me, the TP5 is at the very top of my list for feel, but players who want something more crisp and responsive will gravitate to the TP5X.

Visit TaylorMade Golf HERE

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10 Comments

I have been playing the new TP5X and absolutely love the ball from green to tee. I love its feel and responsiveness around the green; I think it has improved my up and downs for sure. Approach shots needed some adjustment as I was about 1/2 a club longer in distance, but flight and window were on par for what I like. And on the tee? This ball definitely goes further than other golf balls I’ve used. I do have a low spin driver but still when compared to other balls the new TP5X comes out ahead.

I’m going to buy as many as I can before the rollback takes effect!

Hi Matt! Great review as always! As a low spin player myself I’ve been looking at TP5 and ProV1x. Do you have any preference between those balls as far as feel and spin for a lower spin player? I also don’t have a ton of speed so a little extra distance helps too! Thanks again for all your great reviews!!

I prefer the feel of the TP5 to the ProV1x as I generally prefer the softer ball in any two ball OEM pairing.

Hi Matt. Thank you so much for your review. I currently play the pro v1…I love everything about the ball except I would like to see a higher flight on my driver (the pro v1x seems too spinny to me). Do you know if either of the TP5s fly notably higher than the pro v1 off the driver (mid 90 club-head speed) with similar spin, or is that an impossible ask? Thank you!

You said it: I can’t answer that for you. I’d suggest buying a sleeve and hitting them on the course.

I got both balls to test and around the green the TP5 stops…. the tp5x will roll out. That is across the board I found if you hit the spin button you are getting your carry and not much more with the tp5. If i had a place with super fast greens or played a dry fast Muni I would use the Tp5.

I use the TP5X

How would you compare the TP5x to a ProV1x in terms of feel? TaylorMade is promoting the new TP5x as being faster yet softer-feeling than the old TP5x

They’re close. My feeling is that there are certainly differences in the premium category but a lot of people make way too much of them.

Fair – thanks! Was hoping you might say it was softer than ProV1x, tbh. I use ProV1x even though I hate the feel of hitting a rock. Would much prefer the feel of something softer, but results-wise I’m consistently longer with ProV1x with driver and irons than anything else I try and seem to have plenty of spin from in short, so I’m “stuck” with it, I guess. Will eventually try the TP5x once I need to restock.

Got my first HIO with TP5 2021 version love the slightly softer 2024 version fits my under 90 mph swing speed.

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TaylorMade Golf Company Announces The All-New Tour Response, Tour Response Stripe and Soft Response Golf Balls

The new dimple pattern paired with a 100 percent cast urethane cover simply creates a softer version of a Tour level ball made for the everyday golfer that is looking to reap the benefits of our tour proven technology at an affordable price. Mike Fox, Director, Product Creation Golf Ball

Tour Response already separated itself from the competition with overall materials and performance, but now with Tour Response Stripe it will also give golfers the feedback needed to boost their performance on the greens. We have seen many professional and recreational golfers take advantage of Clear Path Alignment in our pix golf balls, and now with the 360° design of Tour Response Stripe, alignment aid gets even easier for the everyday golfer. Mike Fox, Director, Product Creation Golf Ball

Normally if you go that much softer it is hard for the product to be as long as its prior generation, but we took advantage of the three layers of this product, which is unique at this price, to build up speed. In addition, Soft Response maintains game changing distance at an incredible soft feel to become a true game-changer in this category. Mike Fox, Director, Product Creation Golf Ball

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TaylorMade Tour Response vs TaylorMade Project (a)

TaylorMade’s Tour Response ball on test against its stable mate – TaylorMade Project (a)

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Ball Flight

Which ball should you choose.

The Tour Response offers premium-like performance without the price. It is great for those who have a faster-than-average swing speed and want good control around the greens too.

• Great all-round feel
• Distance off the tee
• More affordable price
• Slightly quicker swing speed needed

An older model, the Project (a) still provided good performance for us both in the long game and also in the short game. As a result the value on offer here is excellent.

• Long golf ball
• Soft feel in short game
• Can be found cheaply
• Old model that's been replaced

In this review of the TaylorMade Tour Response golf ball vs the TaylorMade Project (a) we compare two of the best-performing mid-range golf balls created to tempt golfers away from buying expensive premium tour balls.

TaylorMade surveyed amateur golfers extensively to discover what they want in a golf ball, both in terms of performance and budget. Feedback showed many playing tour balls unsuited to their playing ability or physical capabilities.

Its solution was to create three-piece balls with a 100% urethane cover – the gold standard material for tour level golf balls - that could offer equivalent performance to the best golf balls at great value price points.

TaylorMade launched the Project (a) ball in 2014 promising ‘big boy spin’ and serious ‘stopping power’ on the premise that amateur golfers spin the ball around 50% less than professional golfers. Further evolutions and distance enhancing technology have made it a useful stablemate to TaylorMade’s TP5 and TP5 X balls.

In 2020 TaylorMade introduced its new Tour Response ball to drive forward its efforts to win over golfers that stayed loyal to the best premium golf balls .

Both balls have a 100% urethane cover, springy mid-layer and a softer core – measuring around 70 compression overall but with the actual core rated at 40 compression – making them easier to compress and delivering similar distance to tour models with high levels of greenside spin.

Is the Tour Response a repurposed and repackaged Project (a) or are there noticeable performance differences that set them apart?

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We tested both balls on the golf course and on a launch monitor to see how they compared.

Out of the box, the TaylorMade Tour Response looks and feel just like the higher priced TP5 and TP5x balls . It screams premium.

The numbers on the Tour Response are deep red and the branded alignment arrow shows the ball name as well as helping to line up tee-shots and putts.

The Project (a) looks surprisingly similar with the exception of its burnt orange alignment arrow. Both balls have 322 dimples and a clean uniform pattern. The urethane cover makes them soft and sticky to the touch.

To the naked eye, both balls look great. The Project (a) is available in higher numbers for people who like to mix it up a little.

For balls with a low compression core, the TaylorMade Tour Response and Project (a) don’t feel as soft as you’d think on full shots. They come off the clubface with a firm, solid feel and on mishits felt dull and heavy off the face.

On centre strikes, the core of the Tour Response feels springy and there’s an obvious energy transfer as the ball flies off quickly. TaylorMade call this feature a ‘hi-spring core’ and they’ve coupled it with a thinner HMFq SPEEDMANTLE™ for advanced ball speed.

The Project (a) feels softer off the clubface than Tour Response. Its outer cover is designed to be stiffer to be allow for faster ball speeds as the ball compresses on the face and rebounds quickly.

Around the green, the Project (a) edged it for me. It felt more responsive and in testing seemed to deliver more spin and check than the Tour Response, especially on lower stop-and-hop pitch shots. On higher softer shots, like lobs and greenside pitches, both balls felt soft and released virtually the same on landing.

The spin profiles of the TaylorMade Tour Response and the Project (a) on the launch monitor test threw up some interesting results. Every golfer is different and so many findings are specific to the way I deliver the club, attack the ball and impart spin.

The Project (a) span less than the Tour Response in a comparative test of 10 seven-iron shots, however, spin rate on both balls was generally on the higher side for that club. Ball speed was lower on Project (a) than Tour Response, which was consistently between 117 and 120mph, compared to 114 to 117mph for the (a) ball.

Distance was consistently closer across the test pool – between 170 and 176 yards - with the Tour Response while the Project (a) was longer on good shots and shorter on mis-hits (179 yards to 168 yards differential).

On course, both balls stopped quickly on approach shots into greens and flew with the same stable flight profile you expect from the best TaylorMade golf balls like the TP5 and TP5x, holding a straight flight and deviating less than competitor balls.

In driver testing, TaylorMade Tour Response launched high and flew with a stable consistent flight. Launch monitor testing returned spin rates just below 3000 – which is probably a smidge high for optimum driver performance – and producing high ball speeds and distances comparable to those recorded for premium balls.

Again, the Project (a) was longer on well-struck drivers and shorter on off-centre hits, creating a feeling that overall Tour Response is slightly more consistent in dispersion and distance across the board.

The highest ball speed (164mph) came from the Project (a) and this is likely due to its dual-distance core which is larger and intended to create an explosion of energy at impact.

On the course and in a cold northerly wind, it was genuinely difficult to tell which ball was superior on a similarly struck drive.

Indoors, Tour Response was plenty long and averaged over 170 yards with 7-iron on the launch monitor – which compares well to my stock yardage of 169. Project (a), while less consistent in average distance, was also as long as most tour balls that I’ve played.

Given their lower price point, both balls deliver the distance they promise, the stability of flight and the control and spin on hitting the green.

The Tour Response is slightly more consistent when it came to distance control on the launch monitor, but the advantage was minimal.

Launch monitor testing showed that I got a significant amount of short game spin with the Project (a), which isn’t surprising given that TaylorMade designed it to spin more and make-up the spin gap between pros and amateurs.

Both balls were consistent in flight and performed well in a cold 20-mph wind during on-course testing. I’d class them as solid options for golfers seeking straighter flight and less shape on their shots.

Choose the TaylorMade Tour Response if... - You want a cheaper alternative to the TP5 and TP5x - Consistent distance control - You want higher launch, consistent distance and stable flight in the long game - You prefer a firmer feel green side

 Choose the Project (a) if… - You spin the ball more with your wedges and around the green - Add yards to your drives - Prefer a softer feeling ball for short game and putting

Matthew Moore fell in love with golf hitting an old 3-iron around his school playing field imagining rugby posts were flags and long jump pits as bunkers.

He earned golf scholarships to the University of St Andrews and Emory University, Atlanta, U.S.A and dreamed of playing professionally before training as a journalist.

He has worked at Golf Monthly and CNN Sports as well as covering golf news, features, products and travel as a freelance writer and TV presenter for newspapers, magazines and corporate clients. Matthew has interviewed Ryder Cup Captains, Major Champions and legends of the game and rates sharing a glass of rioja and a bowl of nuts with Miguel Angel Jimenez as his favourite moment. Matthew plays off 1, has won five club championships and aced the first hole of Augusta National’s Par-3 course in 2002.

TaylorMade’s Tour Response tested against its sister ball – TaylorMade Soft Response

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Which ball came out on top in a head-to-head between TaylorMade’s tour performance golf balls?

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TaylorMade Tour Response and Srixon Q-Star Tour are both affordable alternatives to premium balls but which one came out on top in our review test

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