We tested 37 drivers in 2025. Sadly, not every club can be a winner. At the top of the leaderboard we have the Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond. At the other end? The Cleveland HiBore XL Lite. What really separates the best from the worst? We’re breaking down first versus worst: a head-to-head look at what makes the best driver of 2025 stand out and why the HiBore XL Lite landed at the bottom.
What do these drivers have in common?
When we compare the first versus worst in any category, it’s easiest to start by looking at what the two golf clubs have in common. In this instance, there is not much that the Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond and the Cleveland HiBore XL Lite have in common.
The Callaway and Cleveland drivers performed differently across all three testing categories: distance, accuracy, forgiveness. In addition, there is a $250 difference between the two.
Why is the Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond so much better?
The Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond outranked the Cleveland HiBore XL Lite in every category. Here’s a look at some data that showcases why the Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond came out on top.
Callaway is almost nine yards longer
We believe in finding a balance of distance and accuracy in any golf club you choose. When it comes to the driver, it may be most important to strike this balance. The Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond has an average total distance of 251.76 yards, compared to 243 yards for Cleveland.
Accuracy is just as important
The Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond is more accurate than the Cleveland HiBore XL Lite. Its average offline yardage was 2.58 yards which means that, on average, it lands about 2.58 yards right of the target line.
The Cleveland had more left-biased results and finished 5.51 yards to the left of the target line on average. The Callaway is much straighter and has less deviation left or right overall.
Above average forgiveness despite being “low spin”
Historically, the Triple Diamond models from Callaway have been designed for lower-handicap players and even touring professionals. However, throughout testing, the Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond was one of the most playable for a wide range of testers.
It ranked in the top third of the test results for forgiveness and managed a top three for distance and accuracy.
One tester said, “Performance was consistent, even the mishits were solid. I didn’t lose much control or distance on those shots as well.”
Which is a better value?
The one major thing the Cleveland HiBore XL Lite has going for it is the price. It’s $250 less than the Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond.
The trouble with shopping based on price alone is that performance differences between these two clubs make it more than just a financial decision. If you’re struggling with the price of the Elyte Triple Diamond, take a look at the Callaway Ai Smoke Triple Diamond.
While the Ai Smoke Triple Diamond wasn’t the best driver of 2024, it was right near the top and is on sale for $399.
Callaway versus Cleveland: Which is right for you?
Here’s one more look at the Callaway versus Cleveland and the golfers who should consider each.
Buy the Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond if:
✅You want the best driver of 2025.
✅ A combination of distance and accuracy will help your game.
✅ Finding a playable driver with some built-in forgiveness is important to you.
Don’t buy this if:
❌ You’re looking to save money.
❌ You are particular about looks. Some testers did not like the glossy crown.
Buy the Cleveland HiBore XL Lite if:
✅You want to save some money.
✅ You are interested in a draw-biased driver.
Don’t buy this if:
❌ You’re looking for great distance off the tee.
❌ You want accuracy and forgiveness in your driver.
Don’t see what you are looking for?
If neither of these drivers is a fit for your golf game or your budget, look at our complete Best Golf Driver testing of 2025.
Mike
1 day ago
Are we looking at two completely different types of golfers here? Can’t imagine someone who would play the Callaway suddenly opt to play the Cleveland. And it would be probably laughable to see someone who should be playing to Cleveland spend the money on a less forgiving driver such as the triple diamond Callaway.
Other than filling space and stirring opinions in the comment section, not sure what benefit a columns such as this serves.