Affordable distance golf balls continue to dominate the entry-level and budget categories. Two standouts in this space are the 2025 TaylorMade Distance Plus and the 2024 Vice Drive. Both aim to deliver long, high-flying shots at a price that’s hard to beat. But even within the “distance ball” category, these two play differently.
Here’s what it looks like when they go head-to-head.
Comparison Overview
| Model | 2025 TaylorMade Distance Plus | 2024 Vice Drive |
| Compression | 77, mid-range for distance balls | 95, firm, high compression |
| Feel | Slightly firm, average overall | Firm feel with loud, clicky sound |
| Spin | Low spin overall, just enough for bump-and-runs | Low spin, limited greenside control |
| Trajectory | High flight, rolls out after landing | High launch, helps compensate for low spin |
| Distance | Long and consistent, with occasional overshoots | Long off the tee, strong rollout on approaches |
| Durability | Improved, but still not top-tier | Fair, some scuffing after one round |
| Ideal Golfer | Players seeking max distance at a low price | Golfers who want distance and firm feel on a budget |
| Price | $21.99/dozen | $19.99/dozen (multi-dozen discounts available) |
| Color Options | White, Yellow | White, Yellow, Pink, Blue |
Who Is Each Ball Suited For?
2025 TaylorMade Distance Plus
- Golfers who want long carry without breaking the bank
- Players who prefer a mid-range compression with average feel
- Beginners or high-handicappers seeking a reliable budget-friendly option
2024 Vice Drive
- Players who prefer a firm feel and loud feedback
- Golfers who want high compression and straight flight
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for bulk discounts and color variety
Performance Comparison
Feel and Putter Feedback
- Distance Plus: Slightly firm feel, some inconsistency in pace, average overall.
- Drive: Firm and clicky sound off the putter, but the feel was predictable.
EDGE: Vice Drive — more consistent pace off the putter, despite firmer feel.
Around the Green
- Distance Plus: Enough spin for basic bump-and-runs, but rollout was hard to control on slopes.
- Drive: Low spin led to long rollouts on most chips, difficult to dial in stopping distance.
EDGE: Distance Plus — slightly more manageable around the green.
Approach Shots
- Distance Plus: High flight and reliable distance; minimal spin made stopping power limited.
- Drive: Long distance and very firm feel; high trajectory helped, but spin was low.
EDGE: Tie — both deliver strong distance with low spin; choose based on preferred feel.
Durability
- Distance Plus: Improved vs the previous model, but still scuffed more than expected.
- Drive: Fair durability, though not as high as advertised.
EDGE: Tie — both showed wear, with neither standing out significantly.
Looks and Visibility
- Distance Plus: Clean design, simple cross-style alignment aid.
- Drive: Bold logo, multiple color options, and modern look.
EDGE: Vice Drive — better visibility and more personalization choices.
Not Sure Yet?
If you are not ready to choose, do not worry. Check the full reviews below and make the best decision for your game.
