Callaway Paradym Driver vs Paradym X
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In this article, I'm going to share my honest Callaway Paradym vs Paradym X driver comparison in detail from an amateur golfer's perspective after personally hitting many balls with both drivers.
I'll be comparing these two head to head on categories like appearance, sound, feel/forgiveness, distance, and accuracy.
Then at the end, I'll share which driver I thought was better overall value for the money, and my overall recommendation on which you should buy.
Callaway Paradym Driver vs Paradym X Price Compared
With the Callaway Paradym AI Smoke driver line on the market, the Paradym line has dropped in price.
At the time of this article, both the Paradym and Paradym X can be found brand new for $399 now! (see below).
Pre-owned Paradym drivers can be found in the price range of $279.99 to $379.99, depending on the respective options (shaft, etc.)
Pre-owned Paradym X drivers can be found in the price range of $279.99 to $379.99, again, depending on the options.
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Appearance
Both Paradym driver models have a similar look, with the main difference being the adjustable weight on the back appearing to stick out a bit more on the original Paradym.
The Paradym X has a slightly bigger head as well.
I think the Paradym X looks more complete. I like the slightly bigger head at address and the note made about the adjustable weight sticking out on the Paradym is a factor for me. With this design of the weight, it looks very clunky on the Paradym and the Paradym X has an overall slightly sleeker look to it.
Winner: Paradym X
Sound
Similar, if not the same, sounds for both drivers. They both make a fairly muted, and they almost sound like a classic Batman style "thwap" from the old cartoon (in a good way).
The sound for both isn't too loud and it is subtle enough to establish their power off the face in an audible manner.
Both sound great; you’ll be happy with either.
Winner: Tie
Feel/Forgiveness
Being a mid handicap golfer with a decent driver swing, I found that the Paradym X felt a lot more complete when hitting with it. They were both very comfortable to swing, but the Paradym X felt more free-and-easy and electric off the face.
With the slightly bigger driver head, and sort of knowledge that it has that extra forgiveness level over the Paradym, I felt comfortable to turn up my swing a bit and saw some pretty good results.
The Paradym is a fantastic club too, but the X spoke to me more off the face.
Winner: Paradym X
Distance
Even though my swing was not as great during the Paradym testing, I felt the Paradym X was actually better for distance. This is especially when you are not hitting square face and, let's face it, a lot of the time the casual golfer just isn’t doing that.
When I hit the Paradym X the ball was jumping off the face. I was incredibly impressed with the distance I was getting.
My longest drive when testing the Paradym X was a carry of 234.4 yards for a total of 260.70 yards. It felt great.
That is in comparison with the longest drive I hit with the Paradym being in the 245 yard range. I don't want points deducted from the Paradym because of this, as it was more my swing those two sessions than it was the club.
I would give the slight lean to the Paradym X, unless you are a lower handicap golfer or a mid handicap with a VERY consistent swing and could put it center face of the Paradym repeatedly.
Winner: Paradym X
Accuracy
They were both pretty consistent, with the Paradym being a great club for those who have a bit more control and consistency with their swing. The accuracy will certainly be there if you have that ability.
With the Paradym X, the forgiveness helps those who aren’t as consistent, and I was finding most drives were ending up in a good spot even if my swing wasn’t fantastic.
Winner: Tie
Overall Winner: Paradym X
The Paradym X was an absolute blast to swing, and if you have a chance to add it to your bag as a high handicapper or mid handicapper with an inconsistent swing, you will be in love with it.
The larger size of the sole and track for the Paradym X seems more finalized to me, and swinging it felt more comfortable than swinging the Paradym.
End of the day it is what you need help with in your individual game. If you have solid control of your drives and want that bit of extra distance, the Paradym model is for you.
If you like the max forgiveness and struggle with consistency off the tee, the Paradym X is the way to go.
If I had to purchase one today: Paradym X
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences in specifications between the Paradym and Paradym X drivers?
The Paradym is designed to balance distance and forgiveness. It features a slightly lower loft and advanced adjustability options.
In contrast, the Paradym X emphasizes forgiveness and higher launch, catering to players who benefit from a carbon design that promotes an even distribution of weight and higher moment of inertia (MOI).
The adjustability option of the weight is not there on the X version, as it inherently is designed to provide a bit more draw bias.
In terms of design, the X has a thicker sole and wider topline, and personally, the X is more favorable in my eyes in terms of look.
They are both well-designed and classy, but the fuller-looking Paradym X stood out to me when hitting them both.
Is Forgiveness Significantly Different Between the Paradym and Paradym X Drivers?
Yes, the Paradym X is designed with a higher MOI, which yields greater forgiveness than the standard Paradym model, especially on off-center hits.
Regarding forgiveness, I felt more comfortable swinging the Paradym X than the Paradym.
The ball was jumping off the face of the Paradym X, and the forgiveness was noticeable. There was one drive that was off the face well towards the toe that still travelled about 240 yards.
Are there Differences in Suitability Handicaps Between the Two Drivers?
Yes. Because of its higher forgiveness and launch, the Paradym X is generally more suitable for mid to high handicappers. In contrast, the Paradym may be favored by lower handicappers seeking more precise adjustability and control.
I would say that the wildcard here for highly skilled low-handicap golfers is the Callaway Paradium Triple Diamond. This version has a 450cc driver head and is built for the very skilled golfer.
How We Test and Our Methodology
Golferperformance.com is a 100% independent publisher aiming to provide tips to improve your golf game and bring more relatable equipment reviews after first-hand club testing.
At Golfer Performance, we personally purchase the products we test, ensuring that our reviews are not influenced by any company or manufacturer. This commitment to independence guarantees the integrity of our opinions and decisions.
After purchasing the products, we conduct hands-on testing in our Trackman studio and/or out on the course to report statistical performance and a first-hand feel for each product.
Jeff K is our resident expert and author. He has 20+ years of experience playing golf and solving swing problems that everyday golfers deal with, bringing his game to mid-handicapper status and shooting scores in the low-to-mid 80s.
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Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase.