Welcome to our Best Golf Irons 2021 review!
In this comprehensive guide we have sifted through the absolute best golf irons currently available on the market. The guide separates irons by category, price and features to help you find the best golf irons for your game.
We have tried to keep our selection pretty broad in terms of handicap suitability, but admittedly, most of the irons featured below are for low single figure to mid-teen handicaps.
Let’s jump into our Best Golf Irons review and find out which is best for you and why!
Best Golf Irons
Below are our selection of the best irons for golfers:
- Best Overall: Mizuno MP20 MMC Irons
- Best Design: Titleist T100
- Best for Control: TaylorMade P760 Irons
- Editor’s Choice: Taylormade M4 and Mizuno MP18
- Pro’s Choice: Callaway Rogue Pro, Titleist 718 AP2, and Callaway Epic Pro
- Best Value: Cobra F8 Irons
- Best Irons for Mid-Handicapper: Callaway Steelhead XR
Also check out our golf irons buyers guide and latest golf iron reviews.
Best Irons For Golf
1. Mizuno MP20 MMC Irons
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The Mizuno MP20 MMC Irons have been designed for the elite players. Professional golfers in this day and age prefer using semi blades than actual blades. This makes a perfect look for the MP20 MMC irons.
These irons look great and makes one imagine themselves hitting good shots even before trying them out. They have been designed with a thinner top than the previous MP18 MMC irons. Mizuno found that the MP20 MMC irons were up by 2 mph average from the MBs. That means that the player is expected to add some extra distance on the carry.
Mizuno uses technology which is titanium forged and two cavity back pieces that provide a smoother feel on the centre of gravity. This is a highly rated club that one should try giving a go.
Pros
Cons
2. Titleist T100 Irons
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The new T100 irons were released by Titleist in 2019. The T100 iron is a tour type blade iron for the elite player whom wishes to play a tour inspired true blade. It has a new and improved grip by Golf Pride which has a softer feel. The 3 d’s that Titleist used to design the Titleist T100 was: distance, dispersion and descent.
The new T100 irons were tested against the previous version of the AP2. It was discovered that the T100 iron had an increase in ball speed and distance by a few yards in comparison to the AP2, as it has a thinner top line.
The sole pattern has been redesigned to give an improved turf interaction allowing the club to be forgiving.
Pros
Cons
3. TaylorMade P760 Irons
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The TaylorMade P760 irons replacing the P730 and the P790 irons are designed for more of the tour players. This is a mid-sized set between the P730s and P790s to compensate for the players using a combo set. The Speed foam technology has been installed in these irons to improve the sound and feel of the club.
These set of irons are not designed for distance but rather for more speed and control. This set of irons is more forgiving than the P730s. They have a thicker sole than the P730s.
Players have compared the P790 to the P760 and most prefer the P760 because it has a better and thinner look.
Pros
Cons
4. Taylormade M4 Irons
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The TaylorMade M2 irons from 2017 represented a pretty hard act to follow, but the M4 Irons has lived up to its billing. In spades, actually.
The visual differences are that the Speed Pocket in the sole is longer and slimmer, while the RIBCOR technology behind the face slots is there to enhance sound and feel. But the main acts here are undoubtedly distance and forgiveness. The aim is to mitigate the distance loss and deviation on bad strikes, and this is about as good as you’ll get in this respect.
And then, of course, they’re long. Very long. And it’s not just when you look at the distance numbers that you appreciate the length. The sound and feel at impact are immense – almost akin to a driver, rather than an iron.
And with excellent deals available on these irons online, you may just want to snap this up.
Pros
Cons
5. Mizuno MP18 Irons
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Undoubtedly aimed at the better player, but boy oh boy are these MP18 irons just spectacular. Not just in terms of appearance either.
Three and a half sets to choose from in order to maximize playability and improve or enhance certain areas of your iron game that will result in better scoring. Massive amounts of workability and versatility on offer and pin point accuracy if iron play is a strong point in your game.
If you’re a 5 handicap or lower and are passionate about this beautiful game then give these a go – you are sure to be wowed!
Pros
Cons
6. Callaway Rogue Pro Irons
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It’s been a busy couple of years for Callaway with the launch of various ranges of iron. Certainly, they set the bar very high with the good-old Steelhead X-12 and X-14 Pro Series irons, but the Rogue range is arguably one of the best they’ve added to the shelf since then.
Specifically, it’s the Rogue Pro Irons which have caught our eye.
The Rogue irons are an excellent option for game improvers, but in terms of low to mid-handicap players, the Pro version has all the attributes you’d hope for in a set of irons.
It comes in 3-PW, fares very well in terms of playability, and the design is rather easy on the eye. Furthermore, it bridges the gap to double-digit handicappers by offering supreme forgiveness, and you’ll be very impressed with the distance on offer, particularly with the long irons.
The only question to contend with is price. But even though it costs a few more bones than you may be budgeting for, it delivers great value for money.
Pros
Cons
7. Titleist 718 AP2 Irons
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The primary aim of the 718 AP2s was to make them slightly more forgiving than their 716 equivalents. And Titleist have definitely done this. Thinner clubfaces, sturdy inserts and clever weight redistribution has done wonders for ball speeds off the clubface at impact.
The feel and playability have been improved on making the 718 AP2’s just brilliant. Not to mention just how classy they look too.
The AP2’s are absolutely world class irons and provide ample distance, playability, forgiveness and feel. If in doubt regarding price – just know these are going to be in it for the long haul and will hold their longevity in terms of design and performance.
Pros
Cons
8. Callaway Epic Pro Irons
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The Epic Pros cost a small fortune, but wow are they impressive if you are in the suitable player niche.
Exceptional feel and particularly control. You can work the ball either way at the drop of a hat and control trajectory with no difficulty whatsoever.
Not to mention just how consistent they are too in terms of distance control. Fantastic job by Callaway.
Pros
Cons
9. Cobra King F8 Irons
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This is a tough one, as there are a number of great deals doing the rounds at the moment. But the Cobra King F8 irons really impressed us, and we think they represent great value too. And the distance is explosive, especially the longer irons. In fact, they’re about as long you’ll get.
There are significant upgrades on the F7 range, including lower CG (thanks to shorter hosels and shallower clubfaces), and they’ve simplified the head constructions down from four to three within the range (a new ‘Hollow’ head design from 4-7 iron). The PWRShell cup face has also been lightened to the tune of 7g, and there is a boost to ball speeds courtesy of variable face thickness.
The sound is a little bit dull, but we liked the feel, and you can tell the difference in launch and smash as a result of the lower CG. At a competitive price, our take is that any mid-handicapper should give these a whirl.
Pros
Cons
10. Callaway Steelhead XR Irons
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At first glance there doesn’t really seem to be much difference between these and the good-old X-14s. But there are actually a ton of enhancements here, and these clubs really do set the bar at a whole new level in terms of forgiveness, launch, and, to a lesser extent, distance.
Is this going to be the set of choice for low single-figure players? Doubtful. But in terms of game improvement, these irons are right up there, and we think there’s a good chance the Steelhead XRs could float your boat – and at an affordable price too.
Pros
Cons
Looking for beginner golf irons?
If you are just beginning golf or are a high handicapper we recommend you check out the following reviews:
Golf Irons - Buyers Guide
1. Build Quality
You don’t have to be an equipment nerd to appreciate how the bar is being raised in terms of manufacturing quality. We’re seeing all sorts of experimentation with materials: everything from tungsten to lighter forms of carbon are being thrown into the melting pot.
Different face inserts and designs are findings ways to add strength to the clubhead in the absence of bulk, and it’s releasing the shackles in terms of both distance and consistency as a result.
Whether forged or cast iron, blade or cavity back is your bag, there is much to contemplate (and admire) when it comes to quality control. Luckily, you’re in good hands with us.
Hybrids vs Long Irons
Which one should you choose?
2. Control and Performance
It’s pretty safe to say that there is a dividing line when it comes to golfers of different abilities. Leisure golfers seek forgiveness (and more forgiveness) in their irons, whereas better players, generally speaking, thrive on blades which could cut diamonds, and which provide ample feedback on bad shots.
For manufacturers, this has often resulted in a trade-off, depending on which type of golfer they seek to target. But this once mutually-exclusive relationship between forgiveness and slimness is diminishing, and we golfers really are starting to get the best of both worlds.
The question is, which brand marries these two elements best?
3. Design and Appearance
There is nothing quite like putting an iron down on the ground, and having a top line that suits your eye. It just gives you that priceless extra bit of confidence at address, and I firmly believe that a set of irons you’re proud to own takes shots off your score. But there’s a lot more to it than just the top line.
Offset, badging and thickness of the blade are just a few of the aesthetics which matter, while the type of material used will play a crucial role in the look and feel.
Ultimately, these are fairly subjective things to assess, but there’s no doubting that when you come across a club which looks the part, you’ll just know it.
Best Driving Irons
Find the right utility iron for your game.
4. Value for Money
Within the world of golf equipment, you’re probably not going to find greater scope for variance in terms of price than with irons. True, that’s partly because you’re going to be purchasing eight separate clubs – or more! But it’s also because the difference in quality between the best and the worst is so vastly polarized.
So a lot of it depends on what you’re after, and your ability isn’t necessarily a determinant in this regard either. There is cutting-edge stuff out there for those hunting down game-improvement irons; in much the same way that paying for the finest of fine blades comes at a price.
But, as ever, if you are being asked to pay a lot of money for something, you need to understand why. Only with this in hand can you make meaningful comparisons with cheaper – or pricier – alternatives.
Latest Golf Irons Reviews
This article forms part of our golf equipment reviews guide on Golf Assessor.
Currently I am a 28 hcp and am looking for new irons with senior shafts. I went to a PGA store and after doing the club speed analysis, they recommended the Cleveland Launcher HB irons. In looking at sever web pages that review clubs I do not see anyone recommending these clubs. Have you reviewed them and or can you enlighten me on this purchasing decision.
Thanks,
Lee Berry
Hi Lee, thanks for getting in touch. The Cleveland Launcher HB irons are a great shout. They were only released last quarter of 2017 and a few review sites have actually reviewed them giving them thumbs up and so do we. Golf digest is another that has given them a gold star. In our opinion they would be perfect for your game! All the best.
Ping guy forever ! Mid fifties now still low double digit handicap previous high single digits. Looking to upgrade from ping g graphite shafted irons. Carry 7 iron 155 but play infrequently now and considering the i210 i500 or or even ap3. Just because can get a great deal on the titleist. Need little more help with distance than when younger and playing more. Any thoughts ? Open to other brands But reluctantly.
Of the three you mentioned I think you should go with the i210 rather than the other two. With all due respect you are looking for a bit more assistance in terms of playability as you get older and of the three, these are them. And as you say you’re a Ping man.
Having said that though, these three sets of irons are still targeted at the better player mainly single figure handicaps so it may be worth having a dip at something a bit more forgiving whilst still keeping a ‘players’ club profile. A set that will likely be at a great price because of a newer model having just been released and these I think are the Mizuno JPX919 Hot Metal. Get lightweight graphite shafts in there or recoil shafts and I think you’ll like what you feel/see!
hi there im looking for new irons im about a 14 handicap but starting to play more use ping zing now what you think i should get in your opinion thanks tyler
Hi Ty, I recommend you look at game improvement irons like the Taylormade M4 irons or the Mizuno JPX900 Hot Metal. All the best!
I’m about a 12 handicap. I hit my old Ping Zing 7 iron 175 yds. Tried hitting the Epics and hit the Epic Pro 7 iron 195 yds. I’m ready to buy but someone suggested the Taylormade 760 or the PXG gen 2. Not sure I’m ready for that PXG expense, but would like to know the ranking of these 3 clubs. I have a very fast swing. Should I get a X-Stiff 6.0 flex?
Hi Scott, definitely go with the Epic Pros (if you are comfortable with the slightly smaller head), otherwise the Epics. Perhaps even hold out another month or two when the new Epic irons are released and you can take advantage of a discounted price on the original model. Hitting it 195 yards with a 7 iron is deep so you should be better suited to 6.0s and it’ll also straighten out shot shape and lower the ball flight a touch.
My daughter is 15 and I am looking for a good second set of irons for her to play. She is a mid handicapper and her current box set of cobras are in need to be replaced. Looking to help improve her game but not limit her with a set that is too advanced. Should she stay with a womens graphite shaft and what irons would be better for her situation with a lower ball flight?
Hello, I am in the marker for new irons. I am a 5 handicap and I currently play the Ping red dot S56… I am looking for a longer more forgiving club. I have hit the Taylor made 790 and the Callaway apex. I liked them both.. Any recommendations for best irons now a days?
We like the Callaway Epics or the Taylormade M4s for game improvement, but as a 5 handicapper you may want to go with a blade like the Mizuno MP18s.
Hi, looking for a new set of irons, my 1st purchase of irons, somewhat infrequent golfer but really trying to get back out there on a more consistent basis, basically been playing with warrior custom received as a gift, any suggestions, I’ve been looking at Cobra F-Max irons and Callaway Steelhead XR’s but any other suggestions would be appreciated, thanks
Hi Chris, The Taylormade M4s are also great!
Just getting back into golf after 12 years. I currently have Mizuno MP-60’s and struggling to hit them the way I used to. I also used to be a 7-8 handicap but playing more to a 15 now. Can you recommend a set of irons to help me with forgiveness, distance but not a bulky topline look?
Hi Darren, Stick with Mizuno and go JPX919 Forged. With the looming MP20 launch, the JPX’s might drop a bit in price and they are a good players distance iron that’s easy to hit. Thin enough top line and enough margin for error – not to mention they feel incredible.
I currently use Taylormade rac lt irons, I hit around bogey and have trouble hitting my irons consistently, I have been looking at Callaway steelhead xr irons and was wondering what your thought were on them
The Steelhead XR’s are decent and provide ample distance and playability, but are becoming slightly dated. How about you rather opt for the Mizuno JPX919 Hot Metals. They are super easy to hit, particularly with the long irons and provide exceptional feel and feeback. Big enough cavity and a reasonably thick topline whilst still looking like a better player’s iron. With the looming MP20 iron release these may be reduced in price very soon and provide huge value.
Hello GA,
My case is a wee bit complicated. I am restarting golf after a forced layoff not having played for 12 years ( shoulder injuries), I’m 65 years old. My handicap at the old age of 52 was a National 3.0 and I was using Ram Blades then TM Burner “blades”…Titlest, Ping and ERC Callaways….TODAY I am building a game based on a “half swing technique”thus allowing me to play some “haggle” golf amongst my peers. Question – What sort of Irons would you recommend for this “half swing” system?
wino.eliott@laposte.net
Hi Mark, my two suggestions are as follows, either the Mizuno JPX919 Hot Metal or Callaway Rogue Pro irons. Both fantastic options. Considering you were (and still are) a good player these will fit your eye nicely and still provide enough forgiveness whilst still maintaining its smaller profile. The most important thing though considering your half swing will actually be choice in shaft. Our suggestion is going with a lightweight graphite shaft like the Recoil for example that will allow you to maximize clubhead speed with your shortened swing. Hope that helps!
Hello GA,
I’m currently a 10-12 hc but playing less these days after starting a business. Getting older I’m losing some distance. I currently play the Mizuno MP-58’s but looking for something a bit longer and more forgiving. What would you suggest?
Working off the fact that you currently have a set of Mizuno’s we suggest sticking with the most appreciated brand of irons out there! Now – there are a couple of current options which are either the JPX919 Forged or the JPX919 Hot Metal. Whilst very similar, the latter is probably more suitable due to slightly more distance and forgiveness. Both are superb and offer the mid to low handicap player plenty of value and longevity.
If you’re looking to diversify in terms of brand then give the Callaway Rogue Pro’s a go. Exceptionally strong off the clubface providing added distance particularly with the long irons. Feel wise they’re decent, but must be honest – Mizuno irons are just that notch ahead in terms of feel.
I’m a 3 hcp and have been using the taylormade m2’s. They are fantastic in distance and forgiveness but don’t give me the shot shaping or feedback on impact. I was looking into either the ap2’s or ap’3. I want shot shaping and feedback without sacrificing too much distance, currently I hit the m2 iron about 168. Should i go ap2 or ap3?
That’s a tough one Sam. Both are great irons. The AP2s are forged so the feel is a little better, but the additional technology in the AP3’s make them more forgiving. If you are a solid ball striker, especially with lower irons, then I would go with the AP2s. If ball striking is not your strong point you will find the additional forgiveness in the AP3s great. All the best!
Hi, I’m a 13 handicap at 69 years old. I’m using 8 to 10 year old Mizuno MX 1000 irons. Reg shaft. I was interested in upgrading my irons even though I hit these pretty good. 7 iron 150 yes. Any club suggestions I should try.
Thanks, Mike B.
Hi Mike, I’m a big fan of the Taylormade M series. The M6 irons are awesome!
Hi Micheal,
I want to upgrade my iron set.
What is your recommendation between these three clubs:
Callaway Mavrik Max
TaylorMade SIM MPX
Titleist T300
Please advise.
Thank you.
Hi Tom, I would go for the T300’s. They are easy to hit, particularly on off centre strikes where there isn’t much loss of distance. They also feel great when hit out the middle. Good looking clubhead too.
Hi there. Wondering if I could get some impartial advice. I can only play a couple of times a week due to injuries and wondering if it’s worth investing in new clubs. Currently play Mizuno mp 52’s (Think I bought them 2007!) and hit the 7 iron about 155 yard carry. Playing about a 6 handicap and don’t actually use my irons too much. If I’m driving well (ping 10-should probably upgrade that so if you know anything similar?) I’m mainly hitting wedges into the greens. I’ve tried a few out including the t100 and t200 series but find it all so confusing with the different lofts they all have! Basically, am I going to gain much from upgrading and any ideas on what could suit? Thanks
Hi Andros, I would definitely think it’s time for an upgrade! I would go for something a bit more forgiving that also still looks like a players club. I suggest either the Mavirk Pro irons (if within budget) or the Mizuno JPX919 Hot Metals, which will be at superb value having been discounted with the new line released within the last month. Regarding your driver I would go with the Callaway Mavrik.