The TaylorMade SpeedSoft Ink golf ball is designed for golfers who prioritise soft feel, easy distance, and enhanced visibility.
With its low compression core and unique Ink splatter design, it offers a comfortable feel while making it easier to track shots and align putts.
Price: £28.99 per dozen
Flight Characteristics:
Mid to high launch trajectory
Stable and easy to achieve ball flight
Designed for consistent carry distance
Spin Profile:
Low spin off the driver for straighter shots
Moderate spin on approach shots
- Controlled greenside performance
Feel:
Ultra soft compression
Smooth and cushioned impact sensation
Forgiving feedback on mishits
Pros
- Extremely soft feel – ideal for comfort and feedback
- Easy launch and distance – for slower to moderate swing speeds
- High visibility Ink design – improves tracking and alignment
- Affordable price point – compared to premium balls
Cons
- Lower greenside spin -compared to tour level balls
- Less control on advanced shot shaping
- Not optimised for high swing speed players
Test Setup and Methodology
To make the comparison fair, the testing was kept simple and consistent. Both balls were hit using the same clubs and maintaining the same swing speed for each shot.
The goal was to remove as much bias as possible and let the numbers tell the story.
Shots were tested using:
7-iron
Sand wedge
For each shot type, I measured:
Ball speed
Smash factor
Spin rate
Launch angle
Carry distance
Peak height
By comparing these metrics between the Srixon Z Star and the Pro V1x, it becomes easier to see where the performance differences lie.
Understanding the Taylormade SpeedSoft Ink
The TaylorMade SpeedSoft Ink is built around a low compression core that prioritises softness and ease of use.
Unlike multi layer tour balls, this construction focuses on helping golfers generate distance without needing high swing speeds. The core compresses easily, allowing for better energy transfer even on slower swings.
The standout feature is the Ink visual technology. The splatter style pattern is not just for aesthetics. It enhances visibility in the air and can also be used as a simple alignment aid on the greens.
From a real world perspective, it feels like a ball designed to make the game easier and more enjoyable rather than maximising technical performance.
Driver Performance
Key driver observations
Feel – 5/5
The SpeedSoft Ink excels in feel, which is its biggest selling point.
Off every club, the ball feels responsive, with a cushioned sensation that reduces harsh vibrations. Even on off centre strikes, it remains comfortable and forgiving.
Putting in particular benefits from this softness, giving you a smooth roll and good distance control.
Performance – 4/5
Performance is solid within its category.
Off the tee, the low compression helps generate easy ball speed and a higher launch, especially for players with moderate swing speeds. The lower spin also helps reduce slices and hooks, leading to straighter shots.
Iron play is consistent, with predictable distances and a stable flight. While it does not generate high spin, it offers enough control for everyday play.
Around the greens, performance is reliable but not exceptional. You will get decent control, but not the sharp stopping power of a urethane covered tour ball.
Value – 5/5
This is where the SpeedSoft Ink really stands out.
It sits firmly in the value category, making it ideal for regular play without worrying about cost. The combination of performance, feel, and durability makes it a strong option for most golfers.
Compared to premium balls, it offers excellent usability at a much lower price point.
Who Should Consider the TaylorMade SpeedSoft Ink
This ball is best suited to golfers who want simplicity, comfort, and consistency.
You should consider it if:
- You are a beginner or high handicapper
- You have a slower to moderate swing speed
- You prefer a very soft feel
- You want better visibility and alignment on the greens
- You are looking for a budget friendly ball
Final Thoughts
The TaylorMade SpeedSoft Ink golf ball is a strong option for golfers who want a soft, forgiving, and easy to play ball in 2026.
It focuses on comfort, consistency, and visibility rather than high level spin or advanced shot control. For the majority of everyday golfers, that is exactly what makes it appealing.
From a real world perspective, this is a ball that helps simplify your game while still delivering reliable performance.
If you want a soft feel, solid distance, and a ball that stands out on the course, the SpeedSoft Ink is an excellent choice.