Pro V1 vs TP5: Which Premium Golf Ball Should You Be Playing?

When it comes to tour-level golf balls, two names consistently rise to the top: Titleist Pro V1 and TaylorMade TP5. They’re trusted by PGA Tour players, used by scratch golfers, and tested to the extreme — but which one actually fits your game?

As someone who’s tested both extensively — in rounds, launch monitors, and side-by-side — I’ll break down how they compare in feel, distance, spin, control, and more.

If you're stuck between these two, this guide will help you decide. And if you're still unsure, try our free golf ball fitting quiz to get a personalized recommendation.

👷 Construction Overview

Titleist Pro V1

• 3-piece ball

• Urethane cover

• Mid compression (~87–90)

• Designed for consistent flight, soft feel, and balanced spin

TaylorMade TP5

• 5-piece ball

• Urethane cover

• Slightly firmer (~85–88 compression)

• Built for faster ball speed and progressive spin control

Winner (Construction): Tie – Pro V1 is simpler and consistent. TP5’s extra layers give more control and nuances for aggressive players.

💥 Distance Performance

In our own testing and via independent data from MyGolfSpy, the TP5 tends to carry slightly farther off the tee, especially for players with faster swing speeds.

• Driver distance (105 mph swing):

  • TP5: 271 yds avg

  • Pro V1: 267 yds avg

• Iron distance (~7 iron):

  • Very similar — Pro V1 may launch a touch lower

Winner (Distance): TP5 – Slight edge in ball speed and carry at mid-to-high swing speeds

🎯 Accuracy & Flight

The Pro V1 is famous for its penetrating, consistent flight. It flies lower than the TP5 and handles the wind better, making it a favorite for elite players who want precision.

TP5 has a slightly higher trajectory and a bit more workability, which some players love — especially those who like shaping shots.

Winner (Control): Pro V1 – Lower, tighter flight with more predictability in all conditions

🛑 Short Game Spin & Feel

Around the green, it’s close — both balls offer elite-level spin and urethane softness.

• Pro V1: Softer feel off wedges and putter. Spin is consistent but a touch lower than TP5.

• TP5: Slightly firmer, but delivers more greenside spin on partial wedge shots due to its extra layers.

Winner (Short Game): TP5 for spin, Pro V1 for feel

🏌️‍♂️ Who Each Ball Is For

Pro V1 Is Best For:

• Players who want a mid-flight, softer-feeling ball

• Golfers looking for consistency and wind control

• Low- to mid-handicappers who prioritize feel and precision

TP5 Is Best For:

• Golfers who swing fast and want max distance

• Players who value short-game spin and aggressive shaping

• Those who want a more "modern" high-tech feel

→ Check out Best Golf Balls for High Swing Speeds

🏆 Final Verdict

Both are phenomenal balls. But if I had to break it down:

• Want consistency, lower flight, and a buttery feel? Go Pro V1.

• Want distance, higher flight, and more spin control? Go TP5.

If you're still unsure, take our What’s My Golf Ball? Quiz — we built it specifically to match golfers to balls based on their game, not just hype.