Driver · 2021
Callaway Epic Max LS
The CaddyIndex™ breakdown: our rating across all six performance dimensions, researched from published expert reviews, online sentiment and our own weighting algorithm.
By the CaddyCompare editorial team · updated 16 May 2026
Performance index
Six researched ratings, lower (blue) through to elite (gold).
Where it wins
- Distance84
- Feel84
- Looks84
Watch
Rated highest for distance and feel; its softest dimension is workability.
You're a low-handicap golfer (0-12 HCP) at 105+ mph swing speed who wants tour-spec low-spin / low-launch ball flight with meaningful shape adjustability via the sliding weight, and you're shopping the used market for value.
You swing below 100mph (the low-launch profile under-spins and loses carry), or you're a low-handicap player who wants the newest face technology — Ai 10x is two generations ahead.
Pros
- Won MyGolfSpy 2021 Most Wanted Driver — #1 in Strokes Gained AND #1 in Total Distance, with ~138mph ball speed (nearly doubled the closest competitor on strokes gained)
- Only 5.3% carry-distance dropoff on mishits — exceptional forgiveness retention for a tour-spec low-spin head, ranking 6th in forgiveness scoring
- Most fade-capable model in the 2021 Epic family — adjustable perimeter weight delivers up to 13 yards of shot-shape correction
- Golf Monthly 2021 Editor's Choice plus 2021 Masters bag validation
Cons
- Four years out of date — exponential recency penalty drops the published score by roughly 9 points versus a 2025-equivalent
- Designed for 105+ mph swing speeds — slower swingers won't generate enough RPMs to keep the low-spin profile in the air
- Two loft options only (9° / 10.5°) — no 12° head for borderline-fit slower swingers wanting to use the head down a click
By dimension
Forgiveness
SolidWon the 2021 Most Wanted test — finished 6th in forgiveness despite being a low-spin players-style head. Independent reviewer testing measured just 5.3% carry-distance dropoff on mishits. MOI of 8,400+ — higher than any previous low-spin model from this manufacturer. Top of the low-spin-tour range.
Distance
ExcellentWon the 2021 Most Wanted test with #1 in Strokes Gained and #1 in Total Distance — nearly doubled the closest competitor on strokes gained, with 138.57 mph ball speed. Independent testing rated it joint-longest among all low-spin models in the 2021 lineup. The ball comes off the face very hot with a penetrating low bullet and tons of roll. Top of the low-spin-tour range — the model's signature dimension.
Workability
SolidMarketed as the most fade-capable model in the family, with adjustable perimeter weighting providing up to 13 yards of shot-shape correction. Reviewer testing notes the neutral CG plus adjustable system enables true bidirectional shape control. Reviewers flag the combination of low-spin with shape capability as unusual in the category. Top of the low-spin-tour range — designed for low-HCP skilled shapers.
Feel
ExcellentReviewer testing describes a more solid feel from the redesigned structural frame, with the sensation transmitted through the hands at impact. The feel of impact is firm and quieter than some competitors, comparable to a hammer hitting a nail rather than a tennis racket hitting a tennis ball. Powerful, controlled tactile signature that better players reward.
Sound
ExcellentReviewer testing describes a beautiful crack sound — firm and slightly more open in volume with a satisfying impact note when finding the sweet spot. Mild mis-hits don't carry annoying jarring feedback but poor contact is noticeable — clear miss-type differentiation without intrusion. Tour-quality acoustic for the release window.
Looks at address
ExcellentIndustry awards named the variant as 2021 Editor's Choice, reflecting visual confidence and premium aesthetic. Triaxial carbon covers a larger portion of the crown and toe — visually-distinct premium materials. Stretched-out look at address versus typical low-spin compactness appeals to a wider player spectrum. Solid for the release window; below modern premium-tour-shape standards.
Sources
Dig into the independent expert reviews and lab tests that feed into how every club here is rated. Each one is worth reading in full — they carry the launch-monitor data, hands-on testing and detailed photography that paint the complete picture before you buy.
- Read the full review at Callaway Epic MAX and Max LS driver Review - Today's Golfer
- Read the full review at Recap: 2021 Most Wanted Winners - MyGolfSpy
- Read the full review at Callaway Epic Speed, Epic Max, Epic Max LS driver: ClubTest 2021 - GOLF.com
- Read the full review at Callaway Epic Max LS Driver - Golf Monthly Editor's Choice 2021
- Read the full review at Callaway Epic MAX LS Driver Review - Optimized Spin - Golfstead
- Read the full review at Callaway Epic MAX LS Drivers - Callaway Golf Pre-Owned
- Read the full review at Callaway Epic MAX LS Driver Review - Independent Golf Reviews
- Read the full review at Callaway Epic MAX LS Driver Review - Driving Range Heroes
- Read the full review at Callaway Staff (WITB) 2021 Masters - World of Wunder
- Read the full review at Callaway Epic Max LS Driver Review - Is Low Spin right for you? - Swing Yard
We paraphrase and synthesise these sources; we don't republish them. Publishers can read how we use reviews or request a change.
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Frequently asked questions
Who is the Callaway Epic Max LS best for?
You're a low-handicap golfer (0-12 HCP) at 105+ mph swing speed who wants tour-spec low-spin / low-launch ball flight with meaningful shape adjustability via the sliding weight, and you're shopping the used market for value.
Who should avoid the Callaway Epic Max LS?
You swing below 100mph (the low-launch profile under-spins and loses carry), or you're a low-handicap player who wants the newest face technology — Ai 10x is two generations ahead.
What handicap is the Callaway Epic Max LS suitable for?
The Callaway Epic Max LS suits a broad range of abilities, from high-handicap beginners through to scratch and tour players.
What is the Callaway Epic Max LS best at?
In our research the Callaway Epic Max LS rates highest for distance and feel, and is softest on workability.
Does the Callaway Epic Max LS have a shot bias?
The Callaway Epic Max LS has a fade bias, with a low launch and low spin.