TaylorMade TP5 vs Srixon Z-Star:
Which Is Better in 2026?
Updated February 2026 · 8 min read
The TaylorMade TP5 wins this matchup.
The TP5 delivers more distance off the tee without sacrificing greenside spin, making it the better all-around premium ball. The Z-Star is an excellent value alternative with softer feel and comparable spin, but the TP5's five-layer construction gives it a measurable distance edge.
Value-oriented players wanting tour-quality ball performance
Distance & Ball Speed
The TP5's five-layer construction creates the steepest spin gradient of any ball — extremely low spin off the driver transitioning to high spin with wedges. This translates to 3-5 extra yards off the tee compared to the Z-Star. The Srixon uses a three-piece design that's effective but can't match the TP5's driver distance. For golfers who prioritize total distance, the TP5 is the clear winner.
Forgiveness
The Z-Star's softer compression (88 vs the TP5's 85) means slightly less harshness on thin strikes and cold-weather play. The TP5 has more layers to compress, which can feel firm on partial shots for slower swing speeds. Neither ball is truly 'forgiving' — both are designed for skilled players — but the Z-Star is the softer option.
Feel & Sound
The Z-Star has a softer, more traditional feel off the putter face. The TP5 is slightly firmer and clickier. On full iron shots, the difference narrows. On greenside chips, the Z-Star's urethane cover feels fractionally softer. Golfers upgrading from a softer ball (Chrome Soft, Vice Pro Soft) will find the Z-Star more familiar.
Adjustability
Both balls offer good greenside spin. The TP5 generates slightly more spin on full wedge shots thanks to its urethane cover design, while the Z-Star has comparable spin on partial shots. For shot-shaping ability, the TP5's firmer construction holds its line better in wind.
Price & Value
The Z-Star at $39.99/dozen vs the TP5 at $49.99/dozen makes Srixon the clear value winner. You get 90% of the TP5's performance for 80% of the price. For golfers who lose 3+ balls per round, the $10/dozen savings adds up quickly over a season.
Specs Comparison
| Spec | TaylorMade TP5 | Srixon Z-Star |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $49.99 | $44.99 |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.4/5 |
| construction | 5-piece | 3-piece |
| cover | Cast urethane | Urethane |
| compression | 85 | 90 |
| spin greenside | High | High |
| spin driver | Low | Mid |
| feel | Medium | Medium-Soft |
| dimples | 322 | 338 |
Pros & Cons
TaylorMade TP5
Pros
- ✓ 5-piece construction for optimized spin at every club
- ✓ Low driver spin for distance
- ✓ High greenside spin for control
- ✓ Tour-validated performance
Cons
- ✗ Firmer feel than Chrome Soft
- ✗ Less spin than Pro V1 around greens
- ✗ 5-piece design adds cost
Srixon Z-Star
Pros
- ✓ Best value tour-quality ball
- ✓ FastLayer core for speed
- ✓ Good all-around spin performance
- ✓ Often on sale below MSRP
Cons
- ✗ Not quite Pro V1 level greenside
- ✗ Less brand prestige
- ✗ Mid driver spin could be lower
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the TaylorMade TP5 if...
The TP5 is for low handicappers who want maximum distance off the tee without sacrificing scoring club performance. It's the best ball for golfers with swing speeds above 100 mph who need help reducing driver spin.
Choose the Srixon Z-Star if...
The Z-Star is the smart money pick for 5-15 handicappers who want premium performance at a more accessible price. It's also ideal for golfers who prefer a softer feel and don't need the TP5's extreme distance.
Our Verdict
The TP5 delivers more distance off the tee without sacrificing greenside spin, making it the better all-around premium ball. The Z-Star is an excellent value alternative with softer feel and comparable spin, but the TP5's five-layer construction gives it a measurable distance edge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Srixon Z-Star as good as the TP5?
It's 90% as good at 80% of the price. The TP5 has a measurable distance advantage off the tee, but the Z-Star matches it on greenside spin and offers a softer feel. For most amateur golfers, the Z-Star is the smarter purchase.
Why is the Z-Star cheaper than the TP5?
Srixon prices aggressively to gain market share against Titleist and TaylorMade. The Z-Star's three-piece construction is also simpler (and cheaper) to manufacture than the TP5's five-piece design. Lower marketing spend also keeps costs down.
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