TaylorMade P790 vs. P770 Irons: Which One is Right for You?
When it comes to TaylorMade’s iron lineup, two of the most talked-about models are the P790 and P770. Both are premium, forged irons that blend distance, feel, and playability, but they cater to slightly different types of golfers. In this comparison, we’ll break down the technology, performance, feel, and ideal user profile for each model to help you determine which iron set suits your game best.
Looks
Often the most important part of selecting an iron. On the outside, the P770 and P790 look almost identical. All technology is hidden in a blade looking aesthetic, with a crossbar going across the back middle part of the iron. But where the bigger difference lies is the look at address.
If you prefer a larger, more confidence-inspiring clubhead, the P790 is the way to go. The P770 is more compact, catering to those who like a traditional, blade-like aesthetic. The P770 has a thicker topline than some of TaylorMade's player's irons such as the P7CB or P7MB, but similar blade length. With that said, the new 2025 P790 has been given a slightly thinner topline than it's predecessor, making the overall profile not as big of a jump from the P770's. Take a look for yourself:
(P770 vs P790 6 Iron Comparison at Address)
Technology
Both the P790 and P770 irons feature TaylorMade’s innovative SpeedFoam technology, which enhances ball speed and feel. However, there are key differences in their design:
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P790:
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Hollow-body construction with a forged 4140 steel face and SpeedFoam Air for added distance and forgiveness.
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Thicker topline and a slightly larger head for enhanced confidence at address.
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Tungsten weighting (up to 31g) for a low center of gravity (CG), promoting higher launch and stability.
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Thru-Slot Speed Pocket for improved ball speed on low-face strikes.
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P770:
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Smaller, more compact head with a thinner topline for a tour-inspired look.
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Forged hollow-body construction with a 4140 steel face and SpeedFoam Air for improved control and feel.
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Tungsten weighting (up to 46g) for precise CG placement and better shot shaping.
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Thru-Slot Speed Pocket, but designed to cater more to ball strikers who prefer control over raw distance.
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Lofts
Another big difference between these irons are the loft specs. The P790's are built for distance and as such the lofts are significantly stronger. Around 3* depending on the iron.
P790 7 Iron Loft: 30°
P770 Iron Loft: 33°
The P790 Irons are built with a low center of gravity to accommodate for the stronger lofts and still provide optimal trajectory for players. But overall, the specs between these two irons further signify that the P790 is designed for forgiving distance, while the P770's are designed for players who may not need as much help in the distance department, and would prefer a bit more precision and green stopping power.
Who Are These Irons For?
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P790: Designed for mid-to-low handicappers who want a balance of distance and forgiveness without sacrificing feel. Golfers who need more help with launch and ball speed will find the P790 a great fit.
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P770: Geared toward lower-handicap players who prioritize shot control and workability but still want a bit of forgiveness. It suits players who prefer a more traditional iron profile but with some modern technological advantages.
Feel & Sound
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P790: With its larger head and SpeedFoam Air, the P790 has a softer feel at impact compared to traditional players’ irons. The sound is slightly muted but provides good feedback on mishits.
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P770: Offers a firmer, more responsive feel due to its smaller head and compact shaping. The sound is more traditional, providing a crisp, solid tone that better players often prefer.
Performance
Distance & Forgiveness
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P790: Longer distance due to its stronger lofts and hollow-body construction. More forgiving on off-center hits, making it easier to maintain consistent ball speeds across the face.
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P770: While still long, it’s not as distance-focused as the P790. It’s more about precision and workability, with slightly weaker lofts and a more controlled ball flight.
Launch & Workability
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P790: Higher launch due to tungsten weighting and a lower CG. More suited for players who need help getting the ball airborne.
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P770: Lower launch with more spin control, allowing skilled golfers to shape shots more easily.
Other Factors to Consider
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Price: Both irons are $200/iron
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Combo Set Potential: Some players opt to blend the two sets—using P770 in the shorter irons for precision and P790 in the longer irons for added forgiveness and distance. When doing this, be sure to check the lofts to ensure proper distance gapping. Players who opt for a combo set can strengthen the p770 irons by a degree and weaken the p790's by a degree to accommodate the loft differences.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
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Choose the P790 if you: Want maximum distance, forgiveness, and a higher launch with a more user-friendly design. The P790 is best suited for handicaps in the 8-20 range.
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Choose the P770 if you: Prioritize control, shot-shaping, and a more compact, players-style iron that still offers some forgiveness. P770 is best suited for handicaps in the 0-9 range.
Both irons are exceptional, and the best choice ultimately depends on your skill level, preferences, and playing style. If possible, testing both on a launch monitor or during a fitting session will provide the best insight into which set will optimize your performance on the course. If you want even more shot shaping control, check out the P7CB irons from TaylorMade, and if you want even more forgiveness than the P790's check out the TaylorMade Qi Irons.
