Buyer's Guides

Best Mallet Putters of 2026

Phillip Bishop
Phillip Bishop
Director of Testing

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Best Mallet Putters of 2026

Mallet putters are becoming increasingly popular, and performance data indicates that their use is also leading to better results. Today, we will reveal which mallet putter is the top performer for 2026.

We are raising the bar for putter testing with a technologically advanced approach, all thanks to our partnership with PuttView. This collaboration enables us to provide golfers everywhere with the most independent and reliable putter testing and results available.

No other review offers this level of comprehensive putter analysis, which is built solely on objective, hard data—no marketing fluff. We let the numbers speak for themselves.

Our 2026 test field featured 29 mallet putters, including established top brands and promising newcomers. Who takes home the coveted title? Keep reading to find out.

After 160 hours of testing and 18,560 putts later, the official 2026 Most Wanted Mallet Putter results are here, powered by PuttView.

These are the definitive best mallet putters of 2026. 

Best Mallet Putters of 2026

Best Overall

Bettinardi BB 6.0

Runner Up

Bettinardi BB 7.0

3rd Place

Ben Hogan BHM02

Best for Short Putts

Bettinardi BB 7.0

Best for Medium Putts

Ben Hogan BHM03

Best for Long Putts

Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R

Show All

BEST MALLET PUTTERS OVERALL

Ultimately, the best mallet putters are the ones with the best PuttView Handicap. Some crush the field at a specific distance, while others offer a more balanced performance from short, medium and long range putts. Regardless of how they get to the podium, each offers exceptional performance benefits versus the field. 

These are the best mallet putters overall. 

Best Mallet Overall Bettinardi BB 6.0

Bettinardi BB 6.0

putt distance overall icon PuttView HCP Overall
-6.3 Score
putt distance 5ft icon PuttView HCP Short
-6.5 Score
putt distance 10ft icon PuttView HCP Medium
-1.6 Score
putt distance 20ft icon PuttView HCP Long
-10.4 Score
dollar icon Price
$494.99

Buy This If

  • You get squeamish over short and long putts:

    To achieve a lower golf score, sinking short putts is essential. Furthermore, superior speed control helps minimize the number of nerve-wracking second putts. The Bettinardi BB 6.0 stands out as the best mallet putter of 2026, delivering exceptional performance on both short and long-range putts.

Don't Buy This If

  • You aren’t familiar with Bettinardi:

    Bettinardi is a well-known name among serious golfers, and readers of MyGolfSpy are likely familiar with the brand's reputation for quality putters. Nevertheless, if you are new to the brand, a $494.99 putter represents a significant investment, making caution or avoidance understandable.

Bottom Line

The Bettinardi BB 6.0 stands out as the premier mallet putter of 2026. Its outstanding performance on both short and long putts led to the best overall PuttView Handicap in our testing. With an exceptional ability to sink four- to eight-foot putts and also excel on long-range putts—both in holing out and achieving close proximity—it provides the ultimate formula for success on the green. If this level of proficiency is what you desire, the Bettinardi BB 6.0 is a must-try.

Testers' Feedback

Felt classic – compact head from address and putts rolled true off the face.”

Nice color contrast. Good grip, which is player friendly. Compact shape was good.”

Has a raw look across the whole putter. Rolls the ball really well.”

Expert Take

Of the premium putters out there, Bettinardi may be the most underrated. Since the introduction of our Most Wanted PuttView Protocol, Bettinardi has been impressive. In the mallet space this year, they claim first and second overall. Perhaps, it is time to recognize them as a putter powerhouse. Go check out the Bettinardi BB 6.0 today. 

Runner Up Bettinardi BB 7.0

Bettinardi BB 7.0

putt distance overall icon PuttView HCP Overall
-5.9 Score
putt distance 5ft icon PuttView HCP Short
-7.4 Score
putt distance 10ft icon PuttView HCP Medium
-0.1 Score
putt distance 20ft icon PuttView HCP Long
-8.5 Score
dollar icon Price
$494.99

Buy This If

  • You want superior performance on short putts:

    There is nothing more frustrating on the putting green than missing short putts. You put yourself in prime position and miss the short putt. Swear wards fly. If this is you, you should check out Bettinardi BB 7.0. It is the best mallet putter for short putts in 2026. Plus, it ranks second overall in our 2026 Most Wanted Mallet Putter test.

Don't Buy This If

  • You value medium range putts:

    The Bettinardi BB 7.0 is a strong performer on short putts and offers good results on long putts. However, it disappoints in our medium putt category, which covers the nine to twelve-foot range. This distance typically reveals the greatest variation in overall putting performance.

Bottom Line

The Bettinardi BB 7.0 stands out from its rivals, particularly on short-range putts. In our updated methodology, performance on these short putts is a critical factor for a putter’s overall success. The Bettinardi BB 7.0 secured the second overall spot for 2026, earning its place as the top mallet putter for short putts. This is complemented by an eighth-place finish for long putts. Bettinardi is a brand to watch in 2026.

Testers' Feedback

Positive feedback on every putt. Best distance control of the mallets to date. Like the finish on the head.”

“I putted well with it, but I wouldn’t play it. Not a fan of the looks.”

The roll is extremely consistent and led to good performance. However, it is slower off the face than others, which I don’t like.”

 

Expert Take

Despite some subjective feedback from our testing pool regarding the shaping, the Bettinardi BB 7.0 mallet putter proves that aesthetics don’t dictate performance. In fact, the Bettinardi BB 7.0 stands out as the best mallet putter of 2026, particularly excelling on short putts. This impressive performance in a critical area alone makes it highly worth considering.

3rd Place Ben Hogan BHM02

Ben Hogan BHM02

putt distance overall icon PuttView HCP Overall
-5.7 Score
putt distance 5ft icon PuttView HCP Short
-5 Score
putt distance 10ft icon PuttView HCP Medium
-4 Score
putt distance 20ft icon PuttView HCP Long
-8.9 Score
dollar icon Price
$249.99

Buy This If

  • You want consistency:

    The Ben Hogan BHM02 demonstrated impressive consistency, leading to its third-place finish overall. Although it didn't win any of the three scoring categories, the BHM02 performed strongly across the board, securing a top-six finish in every PuttView Handicap scoring category. Its best performance was fourth in the medium putts category.

Don't Buy This If

  • You don’t like underdogs:

    It's been awhile since Ben Hogan has had any notoriety. Their mallet putters come out of nowhere to steal some thunder in our 2026 Most Wanted Mallet test. So, it is understandable to have reservations about trying one out. But, don’t sleep on the Ben Hogan BHM02. It is extremely consistent.

Purchase at

Bottom Line

Ben Hogan BHM02 takes center stage and claims third place overall in our best mallet putters of 2026 buyer’s guide. When was the last time you heard of a Ben Hogan putter? If you can recall, kudos to you. This mallet stands out as a consistent performer throughout testing. Winning scoring categories is important. But, being consistent across the board is valuable. Take a look at the Ben Hogan BHM02.

Testers' Feedback

Made a substantial amount of putts. Good roll.”

Nice overall weight and offers good distance control.”

Good flow and sets up well.”

Expert Take

The Ben Hogan BHM02 proved to be the surprise standout in our 2026 best mallet putters test, surpassing several major manufacturers. It delivered exceptional performance, offering remarkable consistency on putts of all lengths—short, medium, and long. It’s truly everything you could want in a putter.

Best mallet putters of 2026

BEST MALLET PUTTERS FOR SHORT PUTTS

The mallet putters that make the most short putts are going to be top performers. At a short distance, you don’t want to be the putter that limits golfers’ ability to make putts. Missing short putts has a greater impact on PuttView Handicap relative to other distances. 

These are the best mallet putters for short putts.

Best for Short Putts Bettinardi BB 7.0

Bettinardi BB 7.0

putt distance 5ft icon PuttView HCP Short
-7.4 Score
putt distance 10ft icon PuttView HCP Medium
-0.1 Score
putt distance 20ft icon PuttView HCP Long
-8.5 Score
putt distance overall icon PuttView HCP Overall
-5.9 Score
dollar icon Price
$494.99

Buy This If

  • You want superior performance on short putts:

    There is nothing more frustrating on the putting green than missing short putts. You put yourself in prime position and miss the short putt. Swear wards fly. If this is you, you should check out Bettinardi BB 7.0. It is the best mallet putter for short putts in 2026. Plus, it ranks second overall in our 2026 Most Wanted Mallet Putter test.

Don't Buy This If

  • You value medium range putts:

    The Bettinardi BB 7.0 is a strong performer on short putts and offers good results on long putts. However, it disappoints in our medium putt category, which covers the nine to twelve-foot range. This distance typically reveals the greatest variation in overall putting performance.

Bottom Line

The Bettinardi BB 7.0 stands out from its rivals, particularly on short-range putts. In our updated methodology, performance on these short putts is a critical factor for a putter’s overall success. The Bettinardi BB 7.0 secured the second overall spot for 2026, earning its place as the top mallet putter for short putts. This is complemented by an eighth-place finish for long putts. Bettinardi is a brand to watch in 2026.

Testers' Feedback

Positive feedback on every putt. Best distance control of the mallets to date. Like the finish on the head.”

“I putted well with it, but I wouldn’t play it. Not a fan of the looks.”

The roll is extremely consistent and led to good performance. However, it is slower off the face than others, which I don’t like.”

 

Expert Take

Despite some subjective feedback from our testing pool regarding the shaping, the Bettinardi BB 7.0 mallet putter proves that aesthetics don’t dictate performance. In fact, the Bettinardi BB 7.0 stands out as the best mallet putter of 2026, particularly excelling on short putts. This impressive performance in a critical area alone makes it highly worth considering.

Best for Short Putts (Runner Up) Bettinardi BB 6.0

Bettinardi BB 6.0

putt distance 5ft icon PuttView HCP Short
-6.5 Score
putt distance 10ft icon PuttView HCP Medium
-1.6 Score
putt distance 20ft icon PuttView HCP Long
-10.4 Score
putt distance overall icon PuttView HCP Overall
-6.3 Score
dollar icon Price
$494.99

Buy This If

  • You get squeamish over short and long putts:

    To achieve a lower golf score, sinking short putts is essential. Furthermore, superior speed control helps minimize the number of nerve-wracking second putts. The Bettinardi BB 6.0 stands out as the best mallet putter of 2026, delivering exceptional performance on both short and long-range putts.

Don't Buy This If

  • You aren’t familiar with Bettinardi:

    Bettinardi is a well-known name among serious golfers, and readers of MyGolfSpy are likely familiar with the brand's reputation for quality putters. Nevertheless, if you are new to the brand, a $494.99 putter represents a significant investment, making caution or avoidance understandable.

Bottom Line

The Bettinardi BB 6.0 stands out as the premier mallet putter of 2026. Its outstanding performance on both short and long putts led to the best overall PuttView Handicap in our testing. With an exceptional ability to sink four- to eight-foot putts and also excel on long-range putts—both in holing out and achieving close proximity—it provides the ultimate formula for success on the green. If this level of proficiency is what you desire, the Bettinardi BB 6.0 is a must-try.

Testers' Feedback

Felt classic – compact head from address and putts rolled true off the face.”

Nice color contrast. Good grip, which is player friendly. Compact shape was good.”

Has a raw look across the whole putter. Rolls the ball really well.”

Expert Take

Of the premium putters out there, Bettinardi may be the most underrated. Since the introduction of our Most Wanted PuttView Protocol, Bettinardi has been impressive. In the mallet space this year, they claim first and second overall. Perhaps, it is time to recognize them as a putter powerhouse. Go check out the Bettinardi BB 6.0 today. 

Best mallet putters for short putts 2026

BEST MALLET PUTTERS FOR MEDIUM PUTTS

We can’t stress this enough – making putts at medium range is game-changing. In the past, we had 10’ putts. At this distance, we saw the great separation in performance between the best and worst putters. This remains true despite the integration of PuttView and changing some internal parameters. If a putter excels at mid-range, it will likely make its way to the top of the leaderboard, and in the case of this year, propel a putter to victory. 

These are the best mallet putters for medium putts.

Best for Medium Putts Ben Hogan BHM03

Ben Hogan BHM03

putt distance 10ft icon PuttView HCP Medium
-5.9 Score
putt distance 5ft icon PuttView HCP Short
-5.2 Score
putt distance 20ft icon PuttView HCP Long
-6.6 Score
putt distance overall icon PuttView HCP Overall
-5.7 Score
dollar icon Price
$249.99

Buy This If

  • You want performance on mid range putts:

    The Ben Hogan BHM03 claimed the top position in the crucial medium putts scoring category. A mallet putter's overall performance often hinges on success at this range, as this is the category that reveals the most significant differences in the PuttView Handicap.

Don't Buy This If

  • You struggle on longer putts:

    The Ben Hogan BHM03 is below average when it comes to long putts, falling short of the field. Typically, we observe better PuttView Handicap scores in the long-putt category. Unfortunately, the Ben Hogan BHM03 is outperformed at this distance by other available mallet putters.

Purchase at

Bottom Line

The Ben Hogan BHM03 stands out as the top mallet putter for medium-length putts, earning the fourth overall spot in our testing. Both mallet putters from Ben Hogan demonstrated consistently strong performance throughout the entire evaluation process. Specifically, the BHM03 showed remarkable consistency, achieving an exceptional average PuttView Handicap across all three scoring categories. This performance truly exemplifies consistent and reliable results.

Testers' Feedback

Rolls the ball better than I expected. Superb performance.”

Crisp sound and feel off the face.”

Well balanced. I like putters that offer good weighting.”

Expert Take

When evaluating golf equipment, objective performance data should always be the deciding factor over personal preferences. The Ben Hogan BHM03 putter is a standout illustration of this principle, delivering excellent results that transcend subjective opinion. Rely on the data; go experience this putter for yourself.

Best for Medium Putts (Runner Up) Evnroll Origin ER8

Evnroll Origin ER8

putt distance 10ft icon PuttView HCP Medium
-5.8 Score
putt distance 5ft icon PuttView HCP Short
-3.6 Score
putt distance 20ft icon PuttView HCP Long
-5.4 Score
putt distance overall icon PuttView HCP Overall
-4.6 Score
dollar icon Price
$399.99

Buy This If

  • You want reliable performance on mid range putts:

    The Evnroll Origin ER8 is a top-performing mallet putter, especially effective on medium-length putts. Excelling at this distance can truly transform your game. The unwavering confidence in a dependable putter is invaluable, whether you're converting a birdie opportunity or sinking a pressure putt for par (or worse).

Don't Buy This If

  • You struggle on shorter putts:

    The Evnroll Origin ER8 is a strong contender among mallets for mid-range putts. However, its performance on shorter putts is a weakness to consider. Overall, it ranks 20th relative to other models in the field.

Bottom Line

Evnroll maintains a strong record of performance in our Most Wanted testing. In our 2026 Most Wanted Mallet test, the Evnroll Origin ER8 stood out as a top performer for medium-length putts, securing the second-place ranking in this specific scoring category. Despite this success, the putter’s overall performance was less consistent on both short and long-range putts.

Testers' Feedback

Felt good, inspires confidence, which lead to me being very comfortable putting with it.”

Could put this one straight in the bag. Shaft seems to be very stable and provide great feedback.”

Solid putter. Feel like you can make everything when you line it up. Gorgeous.

Expert Take

The Evnroll Origin ER8 mallet putter received high subjective praise from our testing pool, with several testers specifically raving about it. However, the objective performance data presents a more nuanced picture. While the ER8 excels on mid-range putts, its performance on both short- and long-range putts lags behind the rest of the field. Therefore, potential buyers should proceed with caution.

best mallet putters for mid-range putts 2026

BEST MALLET PUTTERS FOR LONG PUTTS

Being consistent with longer putts is a key ingredient for performance. Making putts helps, but also maintaining speed control and closer proximity to the hole are critical factors. The putters that achieve these three performance traits rise to the top. 

These are the best mallet putters for long putts.

Best for Long Putts Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R

Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R

putt distance 20ft icon PuttView HCP Long
-10.6 Score
putt distance 10ft icon PuttView HCP Medium
Score
putt distance 5ft icon PuttView HCP Short
-4.3 Score
putt distance overall icon PuttView HCP Overall
-4.8 Score
dollar icon Price
$499.99

Buy This If

  • You want the best mallet for long putts:

    Lag putting—the ability to get the ball close to the hole on long putts—is a significant advantage on the green, demanding exceptional touch. Our testing, however, has identified putters that make this task easier. The Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R, in particular, stands out as the best mallet putter we've tested for long-distance putting. If you struggle with consistency from these longer ranges, the Phantom 9.2R could provide the reliable performance you need.

Don't Buy This If

  • You want performance on medium putts:

    While the Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R delivers stellar performance on long putts, its performance on medium putts is lacking. Relative to the field, it ranks below average for this metric. Fortunately, this mid-range weakness does not significantly detract from its overall performance.

Purchase at

Bottom Line

The Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R stands out as the premier mallet putter for sinking long putts, surpassing its competitors and narrowly beating the category’s top-rated mallet overall in this specific scoring metric. This excellent performance elevates the Phantom 9.2R into the top ten putters overall. Furthermore, it is notably one of the highest-rated mallet putters for subjective attributes, particularly excelling in both looks and feel.

Testers' Feedback

Jumps off the face, effortless roll, felt confident in my hand.”

Very balanced. I liked the offset of the shaft. It is very smooth and easy to repeat my putting stroke with this mallet.”

Best Scotty I’ve ever putted with. Easy to align, but wish the alignment aid was a bit better.”

Great feel and roll off the face. Big fan of the current insert/face.”

 

Expert Take

The Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R showed a positive trend on longer putts across our entire testing group, which is a good indicator of performance regardless of its overall score in this year’s Most Wanted Mallet Putter test. If this focus on long-range performance appeals to you as a potential game-changer on the greens, consider checking out the Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R.

Best for Long Putts (Runner Up) Bettinardi BB 6.0

Bettinardi BB 6.0

putt distance 20ft icon PuttView HCP Long
-10.4 Score
putt distance 10ft icon PuttView HCP Medium
-1.6 Score
putt distance 5ft icon PuttView HCP Short
-6.5 Score
putt distance overall icon PuttView HCP Overall
-6.3 Score
dollar icon Price
$494.99

Buy This If

  • You get squeamish over short and long putts:

    To achieve a lower golf score, sinking short putts is essential. Furthermore, superior speed control helps minimize the number of nerve-wracking second putts. The Bettinardi BB 6.0 stands out as the best mallet putter of 2026, delivering exceptional performance on both short and long-range putts.

Don't Buy This If

  • You aren’t familiar with Bettinardi:

    Bettinardi is a well-known name among serious golfers, and readers of MyGolfSpy are likely familiar with the brand's reputation for quality putters. Nevertheless, if you are new to the brand, a $494.99 putter represents a significant investment, making caution or avoidance understandable.

Bottom Line

The Bettinardi BB 6.0 stands out as the premier mallet putter of 2026. Its outstanding performance on both short and long putts led to the best overall PuttView Handicap in our testing. With an exceptional ability to sink four- to eight-foot putts and also excel on long-range putts—both in holing out and achieving close proximity—it provides the ultimate formula for success on the green. If this level of proficiency is what you desire, the Bettinardi BB 6.0 is a must-try.

Testers' Feedback

Felt classic – compact head from address and putts rolled true off the face.”

Nice color contrast. Good grip, which is player friendly. Compact shape was good.”

Has a raw look across the whole putter. Rolls the ball really well.”

Expert Take

Of the premium putters out there, Bettinardi may be the most underrated. Since the introduction of our Most Wanted PuttView Protocol, Bettinardi has been impressive. In the mallet space this year, they claim first and second overall. Perhaps, it is time to recognize them as a putter powerhouse. Go check out the Bettinardi BB 6.0 today. 

Best mallet putters for long putts 2026

A path forward to better putter testing with PuttView

All of our testing is predicated on data. Without it, our testing is irrelevant. With PuttView, our putter testing as a whole is enhanced forever. It goes from the best in the industry to, well, the definitive best in the industry. 

In addition to the data implications, PuttView makes our putter tests significantly more dynamic. On the golf course, every putt is different: distance, slope, break, speed. While we’ve always tested putters from multiple distances, we weren’t able to integrate other aspects of putting that golfers experience on the golf course. 

With our custom-developed randomized testing protocol, we’re able to replicate on-course putting more accurately. Every putter is tested under identical conditions. Every tester hits the same number of putts from uphill, downhill, left- and right-breaking and straight—but the exact locations are randomized. The hope is to prevent golfers from getting grooved in from one location, making the results more reflective of actual putting performance.

But the biggest leap forward is data and there is plenty of data. 

As we become more familiar with the gold mine that is PuttView, our goal is to mine data, evaluate, and repurpose our findings into subsequent putter content. 

What Is the PuttView Handicap?

In past putter tests, we’ve relied purely on strokes gained and total putts holed to determine our Most Wanted winners. Although these metrics provide a clear picture of which putters perform well throughout the testing process, they don’t give additional insights and they make results confusing. 

We partnered with PuttView to create a more understandable result. Something that most golfers can relate to – a handicap.

PuttView Handicap

PuttView Handicap is defined as:

“A measure of a player’s putting ability representing the number of strokes above or below par. The PuttView Handicap is calculated based on the Stokes Gained, i.e. compares the current performances with an average tour player for the given putt distances”

The PuttView Handicap scores dictate the overall results. They are broken down in three ranges:

  • Short
  • Medium 
  • Long

The overall winner has the best PuttView Handicap average. 

Keep in mind that the results are based on an average tour player’s performance for the given putt distances. 

How We Test

Most Wanted Mallet Putter testing took 160 hours and included 29 mallet models. 20 avid golfers took part in the test. 

Bettinardi BB 6.0 - the best mallet putter of 2026

Each tester hit 32 putts with each putter throughout the entirety of the test. The test scenario is completely randomized in order to create a more realistic putting experience. There are four distances during the test scenario:

  • 4 feet
  • 8 feet
  • 12 feet
  • 20 feet

Straight and flat putts are prioritized. Yet, with PuttView, we are able to implement uphill, downhill, left to right, and right to left braking putts. This further enhances the testing scenario and creates more realistic putting conditions. However, we approach it with balance as our goal is to test putter performance – not a golfer’s ability to read a green. Too many variations in the environment can water down the actual evaluation of putter performance. 

Best Mallet Putters of 2026 – Results

Putter NamePutt View Handicap OverallPuttView Short HandicapPuttView Medium HandicapPuttView Long Handicap
Bettinardi BB 6.0-6.3-6.5-1.6-10.4
Bettinardi BB 7.0-5.9-7.4-0.1-8.5
Ben Hogan BHM02-5.7-5.0-4.0-8.9
Ben Hogan BHM03-5.7-5.2-5.9-6.6
Cleveland HB Soft 2 Black Retreve-5.7-5.8-1.8-9.3
Sausage Golf Boudin Noir-5.3-6.2-1.4-7.6
T Squared TS-1029-5.0-3.8-2.6-9.6
Edel Array F-1-4.8-3.6-4.8-7.4
Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R-4.8-4.30.0-10.6
Ballistic Reaper-4.7-4.3-1.2-8.8
Evnroll Orgin ER8-4.6-3.6-5.8-5.4
Golfyr The Maker-4.5-5.0-2.0-6.2
Void Goliath-4.4-4.0-2.0-7.8
Wilson Infinite Bean-4.4-3.9-1.4-8.3
PING Scottsdale TEC Ally Blue Onset-4.2-4.7-1.0-6.8
PXG Torpedo Battle Ready II-4.1-4.4-0.6-7.0
Evnroll Orgin ER10-4.0-3.71.3-10.1
Scotty Cameron Phantom 5-3.7-4.50.9-6.8
Odyssey Jailbird Mini 1/2 Ball-3.5-3.61.3-7.9
COBRA MIM Stingray-3.4-3.2-0.2-7.1
Tour Edge Exotics Wingman 800 Series-3.3-6.03.4-4.7
Runner Pro Mallet-3.3-2.3-0.6-7.8
PING Scottsdale TEC Ketsch Onset-2.9-4.94.7-6.6
Mizuno M.Craft Nagoya-2.7-2.5-0.3-5.6
Sub 70 010P-2.6-3.84.7-7.4
Spoiler OG-2.4-1.80.9-7.1
Wilson Staff Model TM22-1.92.2-3.5-8.4
Odyssey #7 1/2 Ball-1.2-0.4-0.4-3.4
COBRA 3DP Tour Agera RS-0.7-0.34.3-6.4

Best Mallet Putters of 2026 – Key Insights

Not all mallet putters are the same

Performance is key. It always has been and always will be. Based on the current evaluation parameters, there is a 5.6 difference in PuttView Handicap between the best and worst-performing mallet putters overall.

Short and Medium Putts impact overall performance

Building on our first insight, short and medium putts tell the performance story, especially medium putts. We’ve always known medium putts create separation in performance. But now, we have a clearer understanding of how impactful poor putting on shorter putts can be. 

Best vs Worst: Short Putts

For short putts, there is a 9.6 PuttView Handicap differential from best to worst. Below, you’ll see the dispersion between the best and worst for short putts: Bettinardi BB 7.0 and Wilson Staff Model TM22. 

Best vs Worst: Mid-range Putts

For mid-range putts, there is a 10.6 PuttView Handicap differential from best to worst. It highlights how important it is to putt well on mid-range putts. 

Through two years of utilizing PuttView, we are seeing that short and mid-range putts have the most impact on overall performance. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, but only reiterates the need to be successful at these ranges. 

Below is the dispersion between the best and worst mid-range putts: Ben Hogan BHM03 and Sub 70 010P.

Best vs Worst: Long Putts

For long putts, there is a 7.2 PuttView Handicap differential from best to worst. Making longer putts helps boost PuttView Handicap. However, close proximity to the hole helps as well. Having good speed and distance control is paramount to ensuring you can make the next putt. 

Below is the dispersion between the best and worst putters for long putts: Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R and Odyssey Ai-Dual #7 ½ Ball.

Making putts doesn’t paint the whole picture

Putting performance will obviously be influenced by making putts. However, you can still be effective and efficient without making a high percentage of putts. Proximity to the hole plays a huge role in overall performance, especially in the calculation of PuttView Handicap. You can make 50% of your putts, but depending on where you miss and how you miss can greatly affect performance. 

Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2R

During the 32-putt test scenario, testers hit a single putt from each starting location. PuttView registers where the ball comes to rest and applies a calculation. If you miss a 4’ putt severely and more than once, it’ll cripple a PuttView Handicap in a heartbeat. Whereas, missing a 20’ putt minimally might have less of an impact. 

How to Choose a Mallet Putter in 2026

If you read through our entire guide on putter testing, you’ll see that there’s more than just personal preference that goes into choosing a putter. Everything from alignment aids to matching your putting stroke to the type of insert can be part of this process. 

Here are some of our best tips when choosing a putter in 2026: 

  • Go for a putter fitting and talk to your fitter about which putter helps you hit the ball square in the center of the face. Once you have consistency in place, move to some other decisions. 
  • Do you want a traditional look, a premium look, or more modern, like the Runner Mallet 
  • Talk about faster greens and slow greens, and see if soft feel or something a little more harsh helps you with your distance control. Heavy putters tend to be better on slower greens. Lighter putters tend to be better on faster greens. 
  • Don’t leave out things like alignment aids (single alignment line or more), grip technology, and, of course, forgiveness and consistency. 
  • Use our Head to Head Comparison tool if you are stuck between which two putters could be best for your game.
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Phillip Bishop

Phillip Bishop

Phillip Bishop

Cancer Survivor. Amputee Golfer. Essentially, a OneLeggedBoss. When he isn't facilitating testing or analyzing data, Phillip enjoys his family time, practicing and playing golf, unwinding with video games, capturing photos of nature, or devouring pretzels.

Phillip Bishop

Phillip Bishop

Phillip Bishop

Driver Titleist GT3 3 Wood Titleist GT3
7 Wood Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond Irons (5-PW) Srixon ZXi5
Wedges (46, 50, 54, 58) Titleist Vokey SM10 Putter L.A.B. MEZZ.1 MAX
Ball Titleist Pro V1x  
Phillip Bishop

Phillip Bishop

Phillip Bishop





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      Steve

      1 month ago

      Why does MGS consistently exclude any L.A.B. product from their testing efforts? You tested this $1,000 putter… And before anyone comments, very few L.A.B.’s reach this price point.

      The article list results/ranks 29 putters. But does not include anything L.A.B. I am trying to understand the motivation (trust me, I do think I know.)

      Reply

      HokieFan

      3 weeks ago

      This is new products test. You can look up the puttview results from past years models and compare. Lab isnt changing the DF3 its one of the best putters on the market. same with many models.

      Reply

      Vadim

      2 months ago

      Nearly every brand’s 2026 model scores worse than its 2025 predecessor:

      Runner Mallet → Runner Pro Mallet: -7.6 down to -3.3 (4.3 point drop)
      Odyssey Ai-One #7 → Odyssey #7 ½ Ball: -6.7 down to -1.2 (5.5 point drop — the biggest)
      Wilson Buckingham → Wilson Infinite Bean: -7.6 down to -4.4 (3.2 point drop)
      PING Scottsdale Prime Tyne 4 → PING TEC Ally Blue: -7.5 down to -4.2 (3.3 point drop)
      Mizuno M.Craft X B6 → M.Craft Nagoya: -6.2 down to -2.7 (3.5 point drop)
      Sub 70 Sycamore 010 → Sub 70 010P: -5.9 down to -2.6 (3.3 point drop)
      Scotty Cameron Phantom 7 → Phantom 9.2R: -5.8 down to -4.8 (1.0 drop)
      T Squared TS-1106+ → TS-1029: -6.0 down to -5.0 (1.0 drop)
      Cleveland HB Soft 2 10.5 → Black Retreve: -6.8 down to -5.7 (1.1 drop)

      Reply

      Vadim

      2 months ago

      no Spider? no Wilson winner from last tests? what is this article for? notice how MGS doesnt answer any of the comments about Tm spider, they keep this up someone will listen to the readers and push them out of this space, maybe even me, keep going this way guys, good luck with your “tests”

      Reply

      HokieFan

      3 weeks ago

      They tested that putter in past years becasue it hasn’t changed. you can compare the results if you want. 2024 I think they tested the tour X. it didnt perform as well in short putts and this test skews the overall ranking to 50% weight performance on overall score to short putts. therefore it didn’t do well. it had really good long distance. I think a tour player can hit a 5 fter with a shoe and still hit it straight. Their putter is gonna skew towards more difficult putts.

      Reply

      Tony P

      2 months ago

      Bro – Must have missed that in the article

      Reply

      Matt

      2 months ago

      These sorts of test are so subjective. Two people may not aim the same putter the same way. The total weight of the putter and the balance point of the putter matter greatly to distance control. It is impossible to generalize which putter is better than another.

      I have seen fittings were adding one or two alignment lines to the top of a putter can cause a significant change in how they align the putter (like 10 degrees of aim adjustment). Colors of the putter matter because that contrast can act as alignment lines. Then you have to insert which some might hate a softer face insert because it requires a firmer putting stroke. Then you have the shape of the putter, the offset, the lie and length.

      Unless all these putters are fitted to the person that are using them, there is so many unaccounted variables it is impossible to say which one is better than another. You can 100% find a golfer who putts better with the worst putter on the list than the best putter on the list. If they saw this list, they probably would just dismiss it.

      Reply

      Dustin

      2 months ago

      I have an idea. Let’s take the top putters from all your tests over the last 6 years and put them up against each other.

      Reply

      Tony P

      2 months ago

      A great start. Leaving out top equipment (and in some cases all equipment of a certain brand) makes this entirely meaningless.

      Reply

      Mark T.

      2 months ago

      No including the hottest putters on the market, zero torque, invalidates the whole test. I get separating blades from mallets, but not including zero torque mallets in a mallet test makes no sense at all — except because you want more article read’s when you publish that article.

      Reply

      Connor Lindeman

      2 months ago

      brother, we do a separate Zero Torque test. Coming soon. Started this last year.

      Reply

      Tony P

      2 months ago

      Bro – Must have missed that in the article

      BCCCGolfer

      2 months ago

      I was going to ask the same. Half of the PGA tour winners this year it seems are using Taylor Made Spider putters.

      Reply

      HDTVMAN

      2 months ago

      First, who is making Ben Hogan putters? Don’t know any retailer who carries them. Second, I wish all these putters were sold at Costco. Then we could play with them for 6 months and return them for a full refund and buy a different one!

      Reply

      Deacon

      2 months ago

      Do you really believe your results are valid when two of the most popular putter brands are not included. It is amazing to me that you did not obtain a TM or LAB to test. This oversight negates your results.

      Reply

      Dr Tee

      2 months ago

      “Our 2026 test field featured 29 mallet putters, including established top brands and promising newcomers. Who takes home the coveted title? Keep reading to find out.”
      But no TM???? Hard to comprehend. A few weeks ago you had a boner over TM Spider, winningest putter on tour, now you don’t even comparator test it with others.
      Seems like this should have been titled 29 mallets whose manufacturers we like and sent us free product.

      Reply

      Perry C

      2 months ago

      No TaylorMade? No LAB? Meaningless results with computer software with very questionable design. Agenda driven.

      Reply

      WYBob

      2 months ago

      It’s great that Bettinardi is finally getting its due. They have been making quality milled putters for 28 years. Bob Bettinardi even did the milling for Scotty Cameron, Mizuno, Callaway, and Ben Hogan in the early to late ’90’s. For those getting their knickers in a knot over the pricing, there is a huge cost and time difference in milling a one piece putter from a solid block steel vs. casting then milling a portion of a putter. The great thing is that we have choices and you can pay and play whatever you’re comfortable with. These evaluations are only a starting point in the quest for the best putter for you. With that said, get fit for your putter. The result is that you will get better putting performance and may even save a few bucks to boot.

      Reply

      Beak

      2 months ago

      Starting to see a trend. Last year Vokey Wedges were not included in the wedge test. This year the Wilson Infinite Buckingham, the winner in both 2024 and 25, is not in the test. I realize every putter, or every wedge, or whatever, can’t be tested. But it would serve to at least include the last years top 5 vs the new ones tested for any given year. Particularly because the Wilson putter beats most putters price wise.

      Reply

      Fake

      2 months ago

      They have new ZT putters at $199, too. I love my Buckingham, personally. It was worth every penny, with money left over.

      Reply

      Dean D

      2 months ago

      Wow,
      This is easily the most worthless test I’ve seen from MGS. Change the title to putters we tested – leaving out the most successful brands. Why?

      Run a test with 4 bargain barrel used Taylormade Spiders & Lab putters against your winners – I’ll say they match up well.

      And if 20’ is a “long putt” you’re ignoring all other data. Go at least past the average distance to pin when an 18Hcp hits the green. 35+ feet is long. Most golfers see more than 2 of those every round.

      vito

      2 months ago

      What about Wilson Infinite Buckingham? Is last years winner no longer available? No, you can still buy it on Wilson’s website for $140. They’re not replacing it because it keeps selling out. Check out last years numbers against this group. Still the best value.

      Reply

      Chappy

      2 months ago

      It doesn’t really make that much difference in relative rankings, but the handicap makes no sense compared to how it is described. If it is strokes gained against a tour pro, shouldn’t higher be better? I’d guess the typical tester is between a 5-15 HCP, so they should (all else equal) be losing a few strokes to a tour pro. Even if the score is normalized from strokes gained to HCP, then why doesn’t it work like a real HCP where lower is better? Surely the best putter should make people play like a low HCP while the worst should make people a higher handicap?

      Reply

      Gary

      2 months ago

      This was the first time that I saw very little value in a Most Wanted test result. I was anxiously waiting for this guide.

      Reply

      Donn

      2 months ago

      Regular or cross handed golfers?
      Random selection or?
      Are they all mallet users?
      Statistically significant?
      Unlimited budget to conduct the test?

      Reply

      Martien

      2 months ago

      The best putter is a humman being

      Reply

      UpstateNewYork

      2 months ago

      I can’t understand why you guys keep separating zero-torque putters and “mallets”. They’re all mallets, right? Test them all together. If the testing is the same, then the results are apples-to-apples. Hell, while you’re at it, I think you should stop separating out blades too – putters are putters, just do them all head-to-head and let the chips fall where they may.

      The suggestion to always include the testing scores from last year’s winner as a baseline is also excellent, providing the testing methodology didn’t change.

      Reply

      Donn

      2 months ago

      I can understand. It is quite different. You don’t take a group who use mostly fairway woods up to 9 wood and have them test forged blades.

      Reply

      Michael Terrebonne

      2 months ago

      You did not test one Taylormade putter? The Spider Tour is the most used mallet on tour and you didn’t think to put it in the mix?

      Reply

      BH

      2 months ago

      A $500 putter… What are we doing here? No Buckingham???

      Reply

      Russ

      2 months ago

      How does this list compared to the PGA tour, to the top $ winners, to Scotty Rory and whoever else names you can think of? If their putters aren’t on the list, not mentioned, why ? What does this list know they don’t ?

      Reply

      J mytro

      2 months ago

      TMADE and LAB didnt submit their putters to be tested this year…. interesting!!!!

      Reply

      Nick

      2 months ago

      I would like to see the top putters in this group (+ Spider) against the top lie angle balance type putters. That would be more meaningful for many people.

      Reply

      Clark J

      2 months ago

      No testing of the Lazrus LAZ2 or LAZ2.5? In your February 6 article, you raved about the LAZ2.
      I got the LAZ2.5 and it has improved my putting, especially with distance control.

      Reply

      Dick

      2 months ago

      Who in their right mind would pay $300-$400 for a putter? Let’s get real, guys.

      Reply

      Fake

      2 months ago

      It’s the state of the world. Also, someone else mentioned that spending big money on a putter makes sense if it works for you. The putter will be used every hole.

      Reply

      Mike Brown

      2 months ago

      Golfers pay over $500 for a driver that gets used only an average of 14-15 times during a round of golf. The putter is used at least 18-36 times a round, maybe even more. A putter is where a golfer scores so why not spend the dollars needed on a putter that gives you confidence and improves your putting? Drive for show, putt for dough$.

      Reply

      Jerry G

      2 months ago

      MGS stated that the Lab Oz.1i beat everything on Putt View – including every blade and every mallet. Let’s see the data – Oz vs the field.

      Reply

      CD Osborne

      2 months ago

      Interesting, but you should explain how you picked the putters. You had a previous article about which putters were winning most of the PGA tournaments (TM Spider) and they were not even included. it. So, the Title of this article is very misleading .. maybe it’s should just be “Best Mallet Putters that we Wanted to Test”

      Reply

      Marvin

      2 months ago

      No Taylormade Spider, or Lab? Very strange.

      Reply

      Chux13

      2 months ago

      Happy to see yall gave the Torpedo a run. Middle of the pack but #1 for me! Made putting confident and fun once again. Went and got fit for it though. Curious how the top of the list would do against my Torpedo 🤔. Either way, im sticking to my Battle Ready!

      Reply

      Carl

      2 months ago

      Is it all a big fraud? There’s such wild changes from year to year that it’s either just one bug paid for ad or the differences between equipment is so small that no manufacturer is able to show any form of leadership. Either way. I can’t be bothered with you reviews anymore. It’s turning in to a snake oil show.

      Reply

      Rich

      2 months ago

      These Most Wanted tests across the board are starting to show just how narrow the gap is between the “best” and “worst” of any category. Even in this one, of the 15 clubs in the respective Top 5s from each distance, only two make more than one appearance. I’m glad that MGS still puts in the time and effort to have these tests be a check and balance against the industry, but now more than ever it really comes down to whatever club jives with you the most during a fit or an in-store test. Looking for the objective “best” club these days is a meaningless pursuit and likely any of the top 20 will be in the running for your “best.”

      Reply

      Hunter

      2 months ago

      Why are there no TaylorMade or LAB putters?

      Reply

      Scott

      2 months ago

      They separate out zero torque as its own category.

      I assume no TaylorMade because there were no new models for this year. Usually they only test new models.

      Reply

      Tim

      2 months ago

      Agree with why no TM of LAB Putters or ZT for that matter. You really need to start including the previous two years top 3 in all your club testing vs new releases.

      Reply

      Patrick

      2 months ago

      Agree. Even if they have nothing new you have to include these.

      Reply

      Tim

      2 months ago

      Agreed why no TM or LAB or other ZT options. Really need to start including top 3 from previous two years vs new releases.

      Reply

      Douglas Mael

      2 months ago

      My thoughts exactly! Isn’t the TaylorMade Spider Tour S the #1 mallet putters on virtually every professional golf tour worldwide?

      Reply

      Will

      2 months ago

      “Best Mallets Putters”? How do you not proofread the title?

      Reply

      Leave it to Clever

      2 months ago

      Should divide by cost to figure best bang for buck. My guess is Willy and Cleve’s are easily the best value

      Reply

      Fake

      2 months ago

      I’m very interested in the new Wilson ZT putters, as well. At $199, certainly worth a look.

      Reply

      Rob

      2 months ago

      There is a forum testing for these going on right now, you can check it out on the Forum Member Testing

      Jason S

      2 months ago

      Just goes to show that these tests should only be references for folks. I play the Wilson Staff Model TM22 and it’s been an absolute game changer for me. I’m far above what my SG was with previous putters the last few years. It feels great, looks great, and is pretty point and shoot at this stage going into my second season with it.

      Reply

      Scott Hansen

      2 months ago

      Hard to judge a putter list without spider being run against them. I get they may not be new but should be a baseline based on play.

      Reply

      Adam Burton

      2 months ago

      I agree with Scott. I think there needs to be a baseline from last years winner. Along with certain “gamers” that continue to withstand the test of time and are readily available. Such as the Taylormade Spider and an Odyssey 2 ball.

      One interesting thing I noted from this test is that a few of the putter resemeble the Tommy Armour putter that won this test years ago. With the wing design. There must be something to that design that always tests and performs well.

      Reply

      Scott

      2 months ago

      Then the baseline from last year would be the Wilson Staff Infinite Buckingham. Kinda surprised that wasn’t included as it was the winner last year.

      vito

      2 months ago

      What happened to Wilson Infinite Buckingham? Is last years winner no longer available? No, you can still buy it on Wilson’s website for $140. Check out last years numbers against this group. Still the best value.

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