If you're deciding between the two, understanding those differences matters far more than choosing whichever ball your favorite professional plays. Shop all used TaylorMade golf balls.

The Bottom Line in 30 Seconds

If You Want…	Choose
Softer feel	TP5
Firmer feel	TP5x
Mid launch	TP5
Higher launch	TP5x
Excellent greenside spin	Both
Five-layer construction	Both
Premium urethane cover	Both

You're not choosing between a "good" ball and a "better" one—just two premium balls built around different preferences.

TP5 vs. TP5x at a Glance

Feature	TP5	TP5x
Construction	Five-piece	Five-piece
Cover	Cast urethane	Cast urethane
Feel	Softer	Firmer
Launch	Mid	Higher
Driver Flight	Penetrating	Higher
Greenside Spin	High	High
Best For	Softer feel	Firmer response

TaylorMade's Five-Layer Construction

One of the biggest differences between TaylorMade and many competitors is its five-layer build. Instead of three or four layers, the TP5 and TP5x use five distinct layers that work together across the bag: the inner layers help produce speed with longer clubs, the middle layers influence launch and spin, and the cast urethane cover creates short-game control around the greens. Both models share this construction—so you're getting premium engineering either way.

TP5

The Softer Tour Ball

The TaylorMade TP5 is built for golfers who prioritize feel without giving up Tour-level performance. Its softer overall feel is immediately noticeable on putts, chips, pitches, wedges, and iron shots. Many golfers describe it as more responsive around the greens while still producing excellent distance off the driver.

The TP5 is a great fit if you:

• Prefer a softer-feeling golf ball
• Like a balanced ball flight
• Value feedback with wedges and putter
• Want premium greenside control

Softer feel doesn't automatically improve scores, but it can build confidence for golfers who rely on touch around the greens.

TP5x

Built for a Firmer Feel

The TP5x shares the same premium construction as the TP5 but offers a different playing experience. Golfers generally notice a firmer impact feel, a higher launch, different trajectory characteristics, and a more responsive sensation with full swings. Many stronger players simply prefer the feedback of a firmer ball—but it isn't only for fast swingers. Feel preference is personal, and many moderate-speed golfers enjoy the TP5x too.

The TP5x is ideal if you:

• Prefer firmer golf balls
• Like a higher launch window
• Enjoy a crisp feel off the putter
• Want premium Tour performance with a firmer response

Driver Performance

Both balls deliver long distance, but with slightly different flight. The TP5 generally produces a mid-launch profile while the TP5x launches a little higher—which doesn't automatically mean one travels farther. Distance depends on clubhead speed, attack angle, strike quality, spin rate, and launch conditions. For one golfer the TP5 optimizes carry; for another the TP5x creates a more efficient flight. That's why club fitters evaluate launch monitor data rather than recommending a ball on swing speed alone.

Iron & Greenside Performance

Approach shots separate good rounds from great ones. Both TP5 models provide predictable trajectory, consistent distance, reliable stopping power, and Tour-level control—the choice comes down to preferred launch window and feel rather than one ball spinning dramatically more. Around the green, both feature a cast urethane cover built to generate spin on chips, pitches, partial wedges, and bunker shots. Neither sacrifices short-game performance; golfers simply choose between the softer sensation of the TP5 and the firmer feedback of the TP5x.

Why Tour Players Choose Different Models

One of the biggest misconceptions in golf is that Tour professionals all play the same ball. They don't. Players choose based on preferred launch window, feel around the greens, driver performance, iron trajectory, shot shape, and confidence—which is why you'll see elite golfers playing both the TP5 and TP5x. The lesson for amateurs is simple: play the ball that complements your game, not someone else's.

TP5 vs. Pro V1 & TP5x vs. Pro V1x

Golfers often compare the TP5 with the Titleist Pro V1, since both are softer-feeling premium Tour balls with urethane covers, excellent greenside spin, and Tour-level performance. The differences come down to brand-specific construction, feel preference, and how each performs for your swing—neither is universally better.

Similarly, the TP5x and Pro V1x get compared because both target golfers who prefer a firmer feel and higher flight. Both are trusted by elite players; choosing between them usually comes down to feel, launch window, personal preference, and results during testing.

Should You Play the Stripe Version?

TaylorMade's Stripe models use the same core construction and performance as their standard counterparts—the difference is purely visual. That signature high-contrast dotted band wraps the ball to help you line up putts, track the ball in flight, and read roll more clearly on the green. If you like alignment aids, the Stripe models are worth a look.

Line Up Putts Aim the band down your target line for a clear visual reference.

Track Flight The high-contrast stripe makes the ball easier to follow in the air.

Read Roll Watch how the ball rolls and rotates to check your strike.

Are Used TP5 & TP5x Golf Balls Worth Buying?

For many golfers, yes. Premium golf balls are one of the biggest ongoing costs in golf, and buying used TP5 or TP5x lets you play a Tour-level ball while reducing the cost of every round. They're especially valuable if you practice frequently, want to compare the two models, lose several balls a round, or prefer premium performance without paying full retail. GolfBalls.net cleans, inspects, and grades every used golf ball so you can choose the condition that fits your needs and budget.

Which TaylorMade Golf Ball Should You Play?

Choose TP5 If… You prefer a softer feel You like balanced launch You enjoy softer greenside feedback You value feel on chips and putts

Choose TP5x If… You prefer a firmer feel You like a higher launch You enjoy a crisp impact sensation You want a firmer Tour response

Still undecided? Buying used is one of the most affordable ways to test both on the course.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

The TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x are both outstanding premium golf balls built on the same five-layer platform with a cast urethane cover. The choice isn't about which ball is higher quality—it's about which performance profile better matches your game. Choose the TP5 for a softer feel and balanced performance throughout the bag; choose the TP5x for a firmer feel and higher-launching flight.

Whichever you choose, buying used is a cost-effective way to experience Tour-level performance without paying full retail.