We did a deep dive into all the details of the new PING G440 drivers. If you’re pressed for time and just want a quick recap of what you should know before you buy (or try) the PING G440, here are the most important facts.
The models and who they are for
There are three PING G440 models, and an alternative High Launch (HL) build available in two of the models. They include the G440 LST, G440 MAX, G440 SFT. The PING G430 MAX 10K remains in the lineup as PING’s highest MOI forgiveness driver.
- G440 LST (Low Spin Tech): 450cc pear-shaped head (slightly more compact than the G430 LST), designed for lower spin. Available lofts: nine and 10.5 degrees
- G440 MAX: A “middle-of-the-bell-curve” driver, slightly more compact than before. Balances forgiveness and speed. Available lofts: nine, 10.5 and 12 degrees
- G440 SFT (Straight Flight Tech): A slice-correction driver, now also offered in a nine-degree option (along with 10.5). It features a larger address profile than the MAX but is not as large as the MAX 10K.
- G440 HL (High Launch): A lightweight build option, available in the SFT or MAX model for golfers with slower swing speeds. It is designed with a lighter head, shaft and grip to improve launch and distance.
Weight-saving technologies
PING had incorporated some of the Carbonfly Wrap Crown into G430 drivers but all drivers in the G440 lineup have this weight-saving technology.
In addition, you’ll find that the middle portion of the internal hosel support system has been removed. This saved another four grams and helped with faster ball speed.
The thinner face saved another few grams. PING saw a need for speed and made some adjustments to make it happen.
Adjustability, weights, and center of gravity
In the G440 MAX and LST models, PING increased the mass of the back weights. This allowed for improved shot-shape correction with less moving of the weight track. Ultimately PING was able to save weight and use that to fine-tune a driver in this lineup for every player.
Each head in the G440 driver series is optimized for certain swing speed ranges.
| Model | Target Swing Speed (mph) | Headweight (grams) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| G440 LST | 115+ | ~205 | Compact, pear-shaped head designed for faster swing speeds and lower spin. |
| G440 MAX | 105-115 | ~203 | Balanced design offering a blend of speed and forgiveness. |
| G440 SFT | 90-105 | ~199 | Slice-correcting driver with a larger profile for straighter shots. |
| G440 HL | Below 90 | ~196 | Lightweight head, shaft, and grip for easier launch and added distance. |
Performance gains from the G430 to G440
The performance upgrades and new technology sound great when you look at the PING G440 individually. However, to understand if it’s worth investing in the new PING G440, it helps to see how it compares to the PING G430.
PING did some testing (we are currently testing as part of our 2025 Best Golf Driver testing) and these are the results they had. This is the PING G440 MAX compared to the PING G430 MAX.
- +0.8 mph clubhead speed.
- +1 mph ball speed.
- +0.2° higher launch.
- 150 rpm less spin.
- 31% less shot bend and 17% fewer offline shots.
- 5% tighter dispersion.
The straighter flight and tighter dispersion are attributed to the improved CG locations, face design and overall MOI.
Pricing and availability
No surprise here. The PING G440 drivers retail at $599.99. If you are interested in the PING G430 models (MAX, SFT, LST) now that they are considered older models, their price has been discounted to $399.
The PING G440 drivers will be available in stores starting Jan. 30.
Mark T.
1 year ago
Seems like Ping will miss out on some customers. According to your article, the MAX version is for 105-115 mph swings. The SFT version is suited for 90-105mph. I’m a 95-98 mph, so the SFT is my club? I already hit a draw and don’t want to play an anti-slice club that going to cause me to hook the ball. Sadly disappointed in this release already.