BATTLE: Taylormade R7 Quad VS Callaway Elyte

Callaway Elite Mini vs. TaylorMade R7 Quad Mini: Which Mini Driver Suits You Best?

Mini drivers are gaining popularity as a more forgiving alternative off the tee and a versatile option off the deck. In this side-by-side comparison, Mark puts the Callaway Elyte Mini up against the TaylorMade R7 Quad Mini, testing performance, forgiveness, feel, and style. If you're curious which one deserves a spot in your bag, this review breaks down everything you need to know.

What Mark Says...

“If you like the smaller head and retro feel, the R7 Quad might be your one. If you want more forgiveness, I would go more for the Elite. I do think the Elite feels nicer; the Quad has a firmer, harsher feel off the face, but that’s just my personal preference.”

Inside the Review: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Classic vs. Modern Looks

• TaylorMade R7 Quad Mini leans hard into nostalgia with a 305cc black head, classic R7 styling, and a smaller profile. It’s sleek and retro.
• Callaway Elyte Mini feels more modern with a 340cc head, a dull carbon top, and a deep face. It appears more confidence-inspiring down by the ball.

2. Feel and Sound Differences

• R7 Quad delivers a firmer, harsher sound. It’s aggressive and solid, especially for players who like feedback at impact.
• Elyte Mini has a softer, more muted feel, closer to the full-size Callaway driver; more refined and confidence-boosting.

3. Forgiveness and Playability

• The Elyte Mini’s larger head and deeper profile make it more forgiving on mishits. Even off-centre strikes tend to carry well and stay in play.
• The R7 Quad Mini, with its smaller footprint, demands a bit more precision. It’s more workable but also less forgiving on poor strikes.

4. Performance Numbers (Mark’s Testing)

• Ball Speed: Slight edge to Callaway with 1.75 mph more on average.
• Backspin: Elyte Mini spun ~800 RPM more, leading to more stable flight.
• Carry Distance: Elyte Mini averaged nearly 10 yards longer in carry over a wide set of shots.
• Rollout: Similar between both, but R7 Quad launched flatter and lower with less spin.
• Accuracy: Elyte Mini was more consistent, especially on mishits.

5. Use Case and Versatility

• If you want a driver replacement that’s easier to hit and more forgiving, the Elyte Mini stands out.

NB: If you’re looking for a more versatile shot-shaping club for off the tee or the deck, the R7 Quad Mini caters to more advanced players.

Final Verdict

Both clubs offer compelling benefits, but they serve different player types. The TaylorMade R7 Quad Mini brings retro styling, workability, and low-spin bullet shots ideal for better players. The Callaway Elyte Mini, with its larger head, softer feel, and improved forgiveness, is a friendlier option for most golfers looking to improve tee accuracy and enjoy more consistent strikes.

If you're in the market for a mini driver, try both. The right one depends on your needs for forgiveness, spin, and aesthetics.