2026 TaylorMade TP5 and TP5X Golf Ball Review | I've Never Seen This Big of a Fall Off

2026 TaylorMade TP5 and TP5X Golf Ball Review | I’ve Never Seen This Big of a Fall Off



The 2026 TaylorMade TP5 and TaylorMade TP5x are here—and they might be the most refined versions yet. In this full on-course and performance review, I put both models head-to-head against their previous generation to see what actually changed and whether the upgrades are worth it.

The biggest talking point this year is TaylorMade’s new microcoating process, designed to enhance aerodynamics, improve durability, and deliver more consistent spin—especially in windy conditions. But does it actually translate into better performance where it matters?

In this video, I break down:
• Distance and ball speed differences vs the 2024 models
• Spin rates with wedges, irons, and driver
• Feel and feedback around the greens
• Flight characteristics and consistency
• Which model fits YOUR game best

The TP5 continues to target players looking for a softer feel and more control, while the TP5x leans toward higher speed and a more penetrating ball flight. But the gap between them might not be what you expect this time around.

If you’re considering making the switch or just want to know if TaylorMade improved one of the most popular tour balls in golf, this is a review you don’t want to miss.

Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth golf ball testing and on-course reviews every week.

Video of Live Spin Test:

00:00 Intro
02:24 Compression Testing
03:44 Price and Specs
04:39 Design Options
06:45 Chipping
09:35 Putting
12:46 Sound and Feel
15:39 50 Yard Spin
17:31 Pitching Wedge
18:47 7 Iron Performance
20:19 Driver Performance
25:26 Accuracy and Dispersion
27:56 Durability Scores
29:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

View Comments (13)
  1. Many modern golf balls are painted using electrostatic painting methods to ensure a uniform, thin coating that does not interfere with the aerodynamics of the dimples. This high-precision, automated process often involves negatively charged paint particles attracted to the grounded ball, allowing for consistent, high-speed production.
    Key Aspects of Golf Ball Painting:
    Precision Coating: The paint layer is incredibly thin—around 0.0004 inches—as uneven or thick paint can significantly alter a ball’s flight, potentially causing 30–40 yard deviations.
    Material: Balls are typically finished with a two-layer system consisting of a white pigment paint followed by a durable, clear, polyurethane or epoxy resin coating to protect against scuffs and sun damage.
    Application Process: While some processes use specialized spray guns, high-volume manufacturing utilizes automation where balls are moved along conveyors to ensure even application without creating puddles in the dimples.
    Surface Preparation: Prior to painting, some manufacturers use advanced plasma treatment to activate the surface for superior paint adhesion without solvents.

  2. I was out today at my club practice ground to test potential ProV1 replacements! Legato, Triad, Z-star, Tour Response, AVX! Hated the Z-star which surprised as I played it for a while when the ProV1 & V1x were swapping places! It’s been improved worse!😂 I would happily play Legato and Triad but the surprises were the TM and AVX so much so that they’re getting a 9 hole head to head next week!

  3. I've noticed the same thing with the stickiness on the your response. The tour response with the colored stripes have inconsistent stripe paint, too. The logo gets fuzzy.

  4. so I play the 2024 Tp5x because its a lot cheaper than the 2026 variant which I liked. Your review of that ball was spot on. I am 105-106mph driver swinger and I feel like this ball works really well for me off the tee and around the green. I actually tried the standard 2024 tp5 yesterday and tbh I didnt really care for the performance, I assumed it would be better based on your 2024 review and for me it wasnt ideal. Now that I’m having a hard time finding the buy 3 get 1 free 2024 tp5x Im considering alternatives under $50, any recommendations?

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