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The best of the best! We roundup the best mallet putters of 2026
In need of a putter upgrade this season? Look no further.
When it comes to putters, there are a variety of different shapes and sizes to choose from. But, more often than not, it is a mallet putter most club golfers tend to go with.
A golfer’s choice of putter is very personal. With the technology in the golfing world ever evolving, 2026 showcases some amazing technology and designs in the mallet putter department.
On the whole, mallet putters are designed to have a larger profile and more forgiveness than a blade offering.
It’s for these reasons, and their better alignment, that if you are struggling on the greens, turning to a mallet putter may be a good idea.
So, to simplify things we have listed all the latest mallet putters for 2026 and what we thought of them. Here they are…
TaylorMade Spider X Proto Small Slant Putter | Source: NCG
Unlike most mallets, the Spider X Proto Short Slant was engineered to replicate the feel and swing characteristics of a blade putter. This unique concept stems from Scheffler’s desire to gain the alignment and forgiveness benefits of a mallet, without sacrificing the familiar feel of a blade. The solution? A forward centre of gravity and a specially milled face, there is no Pure Roll insert here.
Overall, if you are a blade user considering swapping to a mallet, or simply wanting the best of both worlds, then the TaylorMade Spider X Proto Short Slant really is a good option. It’s tour-inspired, beautifully balanced, and undeniably one of the most visually striking putters available today.
There is just one problem, the matter of getting your hands on one. They are like gold dust and it’s not hard to see why.
PROS
Perfect for blade-to-mallet transitioners
Excellent feel
Impressive short-putt stability and forgiveness
CONS
Good luck trying to get your hands on one!
RELATED: Read our full review of the TaylorMade Spider X Proto Small Slant Putter here.
During my testing, I found that one of the most notable traits of the Spider 5K-ZT is how stable the face feels during the stroke. Coming from a blade putter, I was struck by how little the face wants to twist open or shut during the swing, which is exactly what this category aims to address.
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Compared to competitors, particularly LAB’s softer-feeling models, the Spider ZT delivers a more substantial and somewhat reliable feedback upon impact. For golfers who struggle with distance control, this firmer feel may prove advantageous.
If you struggle with short putts or inconsistent face rotation, the Spider ZT could be a game-changer. Its blend of high-tech stability and familiar design make it a standout in the zero torque category. Alternatively, if you’re already putting well with your current flatstick, there’s no urgent reason to switch. As always with putters, feel and personal preference reign supreme.
That said, I do think this is arguably the most compelling zero torque putter I have tested that is available on the market right now. With its ideal combination of performance, alignment help, and tour-proven tech, it’s the best place to start.
PROS
Classic Spider putter shaping
Crisp feel
Excellent stability
CONS
None
RELATED: Read our full TaylorMade Spider 5K-ZT Putter review here.
The new tech in the Spider series is the steel wire frame construction, which has allowed the engineers to precisely locate the centre of gravity in places to give the golfer the best roll. It also has a new Hybrar echo dampner behind the face to improve feel. This is the same material used in the Stealth and Stealth HD irons that removes unwanted vibrations on poor hits.
It is nice when brands keep in technology that works, and that’s what they’ve done with the Pure Roll insert that rose to fame with the original Spider X putter. Moulded from a Surlyn material, it delivers the Spider feel we all recognise, with grooves that are angled 45° downward to help impart better topspin and an end-over-end roll.
I really enjoyed the feel of the putter on impact, it is a lot softer than the TP reserve putter I am using that doesn’t have a face insert, and it also has a good sound too. In testing I was quickly able to get used to the softer launch speed and control distance nicely. The Spider Tour X is so stable on misstrikes tso you do generally get good distance regardless of contact point, which is the help we all need.
PROS
Used by loads of top players
Very forgiving
Great sound
Soft feel off the face
CONS
Stock models only available with SuperStroke grip (other grips available in customs)
Odyssey Ai-DUAL Jailbird Mini ½ Ball Putter | Source: NCG
The Ai-DUAL Jailbird Mini ½ Ball Putter is one of many putters released by Odyssey for 2026. The half ball design aims to frames the ball, helping with alignment as well as centring your putts – which it absolutely does!
Off the face, the sound is very soft and quiet.
The AI-DUAL Insert uses artificial intelligence to combine a soft outer layer with a firmer inner layer, delivering consistent ball speed across the face.
It’s covered by the new, deeper FRD Groove, designed to improve forward roll up and down the face, with a noticeably pronounced texture.
PROS
Great alignment tool
Soft and quiet off the face
Feels/rolls nice
CONS
None
RELATED: Read our full Odyssey Ai-DUAL Jailbird Mini ½ Ball Putter here.
This is a very good putter. It’s as simple as that really. I think even the most sternest zero-torque deniers might be converted by this one. Odyssey has managed to blend traditional aesthetics with cutting-edge performance in a way that delivers a premium feel.
If you’re already a fan of the #7 shape, or if you’ve been looking for a putter that combines alignment confidence, exceptional roll, and consistent feel, the Odyssey S2S Tri-Hot #7 should be right at the top of your testing list.
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PROS
Exceptionally stable and forgiving
Excellent feel and roll consistency
Premium finish
CONS
The red design might not suit everyone’s eye
RELATED: Read our full review of the Odyssey S2S Tri-Hot #7 Putter here.
The Odyssey S2S Tri-Hot Jailbird isn’t just another iteration — it’s a refinement that makes zero-torque putting accessible to everyone. It looks right, feels right, and performs beautifully.
If you’ve ever been tempted by face-balanced or torque-free designs but couldn’t live with the odd looks, this is the one that will finally win you over.
I do think you may see this used quite heavily on tour next season and it is certainly Odyssey’s best Square to Square Jailbird yet.
PROS
Features a traditional, confidence-inspiring look
Consistent roll and pace control across the putter face
Premium feel
CONS
The heavier head may not be the best fit for golfers who prefer a more delicate touch on the greens
RELATED: Read our full review of the Odyssey S2S Tri-Hot Jailbird Putter here.
Odyssey have doubled down on the success of their Square-to-Square line with the new Tri-Hot Rossie. It is a zero-torque putter that looks, feels, and performs like a true tour-quality product. In a market dominated by LAB Golf, Odyssey’s design team has created something for players who love the stability of zero torque but don’t want to sacrifice traditional looks or feel. Spoiler… its very good.
PROS
Exceptional feel and distance control
Premium design
Excellent alignment aid
CONS
Slightly unconventional feel for golfers coming straight from a blade
RELATED: Read our full review of the Odyssey S2S Tri-Hot Rossie Putter here.
Sausage Golf- Boudin Noir face | Source: Sausage Golf
This might to be the most adaptable putter on the market. Using the screws at the base of the head you can move the shaft around to create a face balance, toe hang or zero torque putter.
Whilst this is an interesting concept, making the moves isn’t a quick process nor does it come at a friendly price.
It’s great for players that regularly get the itch to switch putter style.
It should be no surprise that the Tokyo offers easy alignment, stability and distance control because that’s what this style of putter offers.
Specifically, for me, alignment was so easy to achieve that I think this putter requires consideration if you are in the market for a mallet/fang putter.
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It is not as high-profile as offerings from Odyssey and Scotty Cameron but it is well-constructed and competitively priced so I’d give it a look.
PROS
Easy alignment.
Pure milled head.
Forgiving.
CONS
No LH option.
RELATED: Read our full Mizuno M.Craft Tokyo Putter review here.
You certainly won’t mistake this for a traditional blade. The Quaternion’s cylindrical, space-age look stands out immediately. It’s symmetrical front-to-back and left-to-right, a design that allows it to be used by both right- and left-handed golfers. While that might sound like a novelty, it stems from a serious engineering aim which is to achieve total balance and zero torque through impact.
The sound and feel at impact on the golf ball are excellent. You are met with a crisp, sort of popping sound that feels both solid and responsive. The graphite shaft dampens harsh vibrations without feeling dead. It offers pleasing feedback on well-struck putts.
Overall, I certainly acknowledge the IB Putter Sweet Spot Quaternion won’t be everyone’s cup of tea aesthetically. But as a piece of engineering, it’s exceptional. It’s beautifully made, easy to align, and promotes an incredibly stable stroke.
I think it brings together striking aesthetics, practical technology, and real-world forgiveness in a way that punches well above its weight.
On the greens, it became clear to me that the Rife 007 Black Edition is a performer. My short putts felt incredibly stable, with the high contrast alignment helping greatly under pressure. On longer efforts, the soft face requires a bit of adjustment to get the speed dialed in, but the forgiveness offered by the higher MOI is tangible.
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Miss-hits, which are unfortunately inevitable for most of us club golfers, still provide consistent performance. I found the distance control to be impressively forgiving, and once I adapted to the soft feel, lag putting was great.
PROS
Fantastic value for money
Soft face feel offers control on delicate putts
Matte black finish enhances alignment and reduces glare
CONS
Standard grip feels a little cheap compared to the rest of the build
RELATED: Read our full Rife Black Edition 007 Putter review here.
Ping has just launched their new Scottsdale Tec putter range. This collection reimagines some of their most popular designs and shapes. And, they’re already being used by Tony Finau, Viktor Hovland and Billy Horsel.
The Ketsch Onset putter has a long alignment line, teamed with a dot focal point. This is Ping’s Eye-Q technology and is designed to quieten golfers’ eyes over the ball – giving a stable fixation point. A one piece PEBAX face insert offers a soft feel off the face and a quiet sound.
Beneath the striking visuals lies the full-face PEBAX face insert, a soft yet consistent technology that ensures consistent performance across face. During my testing I found, whether the strike is out of the heel or the toe, the distance control remained impressive. This was particularly useful for longer putts where off-centre hits are more common.
Where the Scottsdale Craz-E truly excels is forgiveness. With its high MOI, moment of inertia, design, I found it remains stable through impact, preserving line and pace even on mishits. During testing, this proved especially effective on longer putts, where mis-strikes didn’t result in the usual drop-off in performance.
All in all, the Ping Scottsdale Craz-E Putter isn’t the cheapest on the market, but it offers excellent value for the performance and heritage it brings. For golfers who fondly remember the original Craz-E, this updated version is a welcome return. For newcomers, it’s a fantastic opportunity to see what all the fuss is about.
PROS
Very forgiving across the face
Soft yet consistent roll
Retro design looks amazing
CONS
Bulkier profile may not suit blade purists
RELATED: Read our full Ping Scottsdale Craz-E Putter review here.
This is an exceptional mallet putter. The milled face feels glorious when struck. It is well-weighted and the oversized grip feels great in the hands. If you are at all struggling with your putting, it is madness not to give this a roll.
The first thing you notice when putting it in the hands is the flat-sided grip. It is very large. That is a good thing, though. Being a left hander, who plays golf right-handed, my dominant hand tends to take over with indifferent results.
With its fang shape, the Bucktown is distinctive but not off-putting down at address. The alignment aids are a massive plus – there are three very clear sightlines (painted white against the black head to stand out) that leave no doubt where you are pointing.
That gave me quite a lot of confidence and on the occasions I was erring I could quickly reset before making an off-line stroke.
The milled face is exceptional. The ball feels a touch firm off the surface but that is an adjustment quickly made. I’d also say it’s not necessarily as forgiving to major mishits. If you hit this off the bottom grooves you’ll notice a big difference compared with putters that use descending loft technology.
PROS
Milled face is the match of any putter in the field
Beautifully balanced and easy to roll
Exceptional grip promotes stability
CONS
Off-centre strikes may not always be the most forgiving
RELATED: Read our full Wilson Infinite Bucktown Putter review here.
The first time I took the 001 out on my home course, where I know the greens well, I putted extremely well, holing a number of 5-15 foot putts and leaving everything else a tap-in distance away.
I quite liked the crisp feel offered by the carbon steel head (with no insert). Being a mallet shape, there was more forgiveness than from my usual blade putter. I found distance control and alignment to be very straightforward. I was also happy with the standard 2x10gm weight option in the head. I was so excited that I put the 001 in my bag for a trip to the Lisbon area for 4 rounds of golf just to sharpen my game for the season ahead.
PROS
Premium look.
Helpful alignment lines.
Choice of weights.
CONS
Crisp feel not for all.
RELATED: Read our full Zebra Milled Series 001 Putter review here.
I thought the CNC milling on the face is particularly impressive for a putter in this price range. CNC, Computer Numerical Control, milling is a precision process typically reserved for premium putters, so its inclusion here is a testament to Ram’s dedication to quality. This commitment to craftsmanship is evident even at the first time of taking a look at it.
On the greens, I found the FX-05 showcases its strengths in the shorter putts. During my testing, it excelled at sinking short putts, with the alignment line aiding greatly in setup and stroke confidence.
Overall, I think the Ram FX-05 CNC Milled Mallet Putter is an impressive addition to the budget putter category. Its sleek design, quality milling, and dependable performance make it a standout for those seeking value without compromise. While it may take a little getting used to, particularly with its closed resting position and lighter head, the payoff is well worth it. For beginners and budget-conscious golfers, this is a mallet putter that more than punches above its weight.
PROS
Perfect for beginners
Great consistency on the greens
Exceptional value for money
CONS
Slightly closed face at address may require adjustment
There’s no doubt the PXG Hot Rod Zero Torque putter delivers exactly what modern golfers are looking for. It is forgiving, consistent and stable.
Its zero torque design keeps the face square with minimal effort, while the high-MOI head and adjustable weighting really do help to install more confidence at address.
PROS
Feels soft off the face
Extremely stable
Forgiving
CONS
Large head won’t be for everyone
Premium price
RELATED: Read our full PXG Hot Rod ZT Putter review here.
PXG’s take on a zero torque putter does come with a twist. Unlike some zero-torque designs that use an exaggerated offset or centre-shafted hosel, PXG has opted for a bent hosel that enters the heel in a more traditional manner. As a result the face that sits noticeably ahead of the shaft, something that takes a little getting used to, but does improve the stability.
I thought where the Bat Attack ZT really shone was its feel. PXG has incorporated its refined pyramid face pattern, which promotes a consistent ball speed and a pleasing, soft sound. It’s not too soft or too firm; instead, it strikes a rare balance that feels both high-end and reliable.
Overall, I think the PXG Bat Attack ZT is a standout performer in the zero-torque category. Its classic shape, innovative design, and exceptional feel make it a really good option for all club golfers. While I have my doubts over the grip, the overall package is undeniably of high quality.
PROS
Excellent feel off the face
Impressive stability on short and long putts
Premium build quality
CONS
Grip quality
RELATED: Read our full review of the PXG Bat Attack ZT putter here.
The SeeMore Mini Giant HTX Putter is a standout option for golfers seeking consistency in alignment and short-putt accuracy. Its innovative RifleScope Technology simplifies the setup process and promotes a square face through impact. While it may struggle slightly with ball speed on long putts, its overall performance and feedback make it a compelling choice for those looking to refine their short game.
Its sleek black finish and copper-weighted fangs give it a unique aesthetic that feels both modern and classic. Picking it up, the balance is apparent, and it sits squarely behind the ball, promoting confidence before even making a stroke.
During testing, I found the Mini Giant HTX particularly impressed on short putts. The RST alignment system made it incredibly easy for me to set up confidently over the ball, which I definitely think helped deliver consistent accuracy from three to eight feet.
PROS
Forgiving on off-centre strikes
Smooth, true roll with satisfying feedback
Excellent alignment system
CONS
Slight ball speed drop-off on toe strikes
RELATED: Read our full SeeMore Mini Giant HTX Putter review here.
One of L.A.B.’s calling cards is unparalleled customisation. From grip types and shaft leans to color schemes and face insert options, the OZ.1 is a custom fitter’s dream. You can opt for a vertical shaft, putting your hands behind the face, or a forward lean for a more traditional setup. During my testing, the forward lean felt more intuitive, aiding alignment and consistency on short putts.
True to L.A.B.’s mission, the OZ.1 is torque-free. This Lie Angle Balance design means the putter face resists twisting through the stroke, especially on short putts, delivering unmatched stability and forgiveness.
While the OZ.1 isn’t cheap, it’s hard to argue with the value it brings. You’re not just paying for a putter but you’re buying into one of the most technologically advanced clubs on the market. And it’s no gimmick. For those struggling with consistency on the greens, this is a really great option.
PROS
Unmatched face stability
Strong distance control and feedback
Ideal for short putts and under-pressure scenarios
Modern shape with traditional appeal
CONS
Premium price tag
Very different from classic blades which may not be for everyone
RELATED: Read our full L.A.B. Golf OZ.1 Putter review here.
A forward press with your putter controls loft and the way the ball launches and rolls. What I really like about this putter is that it’s already pre-set and it feels very natural. I don’t feel like I’m forward pressing and so I can focus on alignment.
The large, oversized head is designed to have high MOI, so toe and heel strikes aren’t going to affect the direction all that much.
The feel of the face feels very soft which is something I prefer. I really like the feel and the way the putter rolls the ball. It instantly feels well balanced.
My pace control is exceptional with the LAB Direct Force 2.1 – really helping with long putts. I feel like it is really easy to control my start line and with these benefits I just don’t see how it can’t make me a better putter.
PROS
Very forgiving
All-black design is smart
Helps with distance control
CONS
Style might not be to everyone’s taste
RELATED: Read our full L.A.B. LAB Direct Force 2.1 Putter review here.
Toulon has done a remarkable job in creating a mini mallet that successfully bridges the gap between blade and mallet designs. Its whole design works well in delivering plenty of forgiveness without feeling overly bulky at address. The deep diamond milled face provides a soft yet responsive feel, while the alignment line and stable head make it particularly effective on short putts.
It won’t come cheap, and that’s a light way of putting it, but the Alcatraz Mini H1 is worth the price tag.
PROS
Confidence-inspiring shape
Extremely forgiving
Soft and responsive feel
CONS
It will cost you a pretty penny
RELATED: Read our full Toulon Alcatraz Mini H1 review here.
Cobra is back with their updated 3DP Tour putters. The winged mallet Agera, offers a bold alignment aid that sits great behind the ball. Whereas the Grandsport 35 is a large wide blade, that combines traditional looks with a more confidence inspiring look.
There has been a lot of well thought out tech upgrades with this launch. LA GOLF™’s patented Descending Loft Technology™ is one. It utilises four different lofts across the face to optimise launch at impact. This ultimately delivered a consistent launch angle and a repeatable true roll.
PROS
Great alignment tools
Looks great
Very customisable
CONS
None
RELATED: Read our full Cobra 3DP Tour review here.
There is no right or wrong option when it comes to choosing a putter. Some people like how mallets look and how that extra weight in the head offers a touch more forgiveness. Others love the sleek design a blade offers and how you can often feel the ball off of the face a little better.
A putter is entirely personal choice so don’t be afraid to experiment and find the putter that could help you have your best golfing season so far.
2026 offers some great new mallet putter packed with technology to help you on the greens.
A bit of a late bloomer to the game of golf, Max fell in love with the sport when he attended Saturday coaching sessions down at his local golf club after being inspired by friends and family members.
Max has remained a member of Eden Golf Club in Carlisle for a number of years now as he looks to get his handicap down into single figures. Most of his golfing career has been spent battling a permanent slice off the tee, which has led to some ugly rounds.
Having studied at the University of Sunderland, Max is starting out his dream career in sports journalism. During his time at university, he picked up valuable work experience at Reach PLC, BBC Radio Cumbria and GiveMeSport, whilst also getting work published in the Teesside Live. He also spent time working at a local weekly newspaper, Eskdale and Liddesdale Advertiser, as a general news reporter partially covering some local sport just north of the border in Langholm.
Max has just started his journey with the NCG working as the assistant equipment editor. He looks forwarded to reviewing the latest golf equipment, taking up an interest in reviews when buying his first golf club, a Cleveland RTX wedge.
With his bag not going under too many changes throughout the last few years, Max carries an M3 driver, Titleist GT3 Fairway Wood, M2 hybrid, a set of M2 irons, Callaway Jaws wedges and a TaylorMade Spider putter. And yes, Max is a bit of a self-proclaimed TaylorMade fan boy.
