Titleist TS4 Driver
Technical Editor Joel Tadman tests out Titleist's new TS4 driver
A fitting is a must to weigh up the pros and cons of TS4 against the other models to see if it is best for your game but if your strikes are consistent and excessive spin is limiting your distance, it could be your perfect match.
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Delivers lower spin for the player that needs it. More compact profile enhances workability.
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Off-centre strikes struggle to maintain distance and accuracy.
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Golf Monthly's Technical Editor Joel Tadman tests out Titleist's TS4 driver to see how it compares with the other TS models
Titleist TS4 Driver Review
The TS4 is one of four models forming the TS driver range, making it one of the most expansive on the market. It is said to complement the TS2 and TS3 by being designed for anyone looking to significantly reduce their spin.
This doesn’t necessarily mean just tour players with very high swing speeds. It could be anyone who hits down on the ball significantly, although the smaller size and more forward CG make the TS4 less forgiving and thus better suited to accomplished ball-strikers.
Key Technology
- Every TS driver face undergoes a 100 per cent CT inspection to ensure speed performance is at the maximum allowable limit.
- The aerodynamic, pear-shape design of TS4 allows golfers to swing faster for increased clubhead speed and more distance.
- The low and forward CG position (5mm forward vs TS2) produces ultra-low spin for a piercing ball flight that is straighter and more consistent.
Looks It is much more compact behind the ball than the other TS models, promoting workability and the need to be precise with the strike. The glossy black finish on the crown adds to the premium appeal.
Performance
Our club speed with the TS4 was actually a little quicker than with the TS3, possibly because of the more streamlined, smaller chassis. Ball speeds with the TS4 were also faster on average as a result, but slightly less efficient because of the lower forgiveness on offer, meaning carry distances compared with TS3 were similar.
The TS4 was proven to be the lowest spinning of the TS drivers, although we only experienced a drop of around 50rpm compared with TS3 in like-for-like loft and shaft. In fact, overall performance between TS3 and TS4 was very similar. The TS4 also has a much shorter, quieter sound at impact than all the other TS models, which we definitely prefer.
The TS4 could well become the tour player’s top choice. The timing of the launch is questionable, as is the need for it at retail given the versatility of the TS3, but consistent ball-strikers may well enjoy looking down at the deeper-faced head and prefer the extra workability on offer. With some extra loft, the spin reduction could increase distance on centred hits, although off-centre strikes are likely to be more adversely affected than on TS3.
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Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.
One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.
Joel's current What's In The Bag?
Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9°
Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15°
Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18°
Irons: Ping i230 4-UW
Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind
Putter: Evnroll ER2V
Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x
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