3 Hybrid vs. 5 Hybrid: Which One is the Best?

If you’re an avid golfer, you know how important it is to have the right clubs in your bag. And if you’re struggling with those long shots from the fairway, you might be considering adding a hybrid club to your arsenal.

But with so many options out there, how do you choose between a 3 hybrid and a 5 hybrid? 

The main difference between a 3 hybrid and a 5 hybrid is that a 3 hybrid is better for hitting from tight lies and a 5 hybrid is better for hitting approach shots into greens or from the rough. Both hybrids are versatile and provide more forgiveness and easier launch than traditional long irons.

Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to the individual golfer’s playing style and needs.

Hybrids are golf clubs that are designed to combine the best features of irons and woods. They have a larger clubhead than irons, making them easier to hit and more forgiving. Plus, hybrids are super versatile and easier to launch than fairway woods.

The 3 hybrid has a loft angle of around 19 degrees, while the 5 hybrid has a loft angle of around 25 degrees. Hybrid clubs were first introduced in the early 2000s and have since become a popular alternative to long irons and fairway woods.

In this blog, I’ll explore the differences between these two clubs and help you determine which one is right for you. Let’s take a closer look.

Is a 3 Hybrid or 5 Hybrid Club for You?

If you struggle with hitting long irons, a hybrid club can be a great addition to your bag. Both the 3 and 5 hybrid clubs are designed to provide more forgiveness and easier launch than traditional long iron.

The 3 hybrid is a good choice if you’re looking for a club that can replace your 3 or 4 iron. It’s also a good option for hitting long shots from the fairway or rough.

The 5 hybrid, on the other hand, is ideal for golfers who struggle with their 5 or 6 iron. It’s also a great club for hitting approach shots into greens or for shots from the rough.

If you’re a beginner golfer, then these clubs can be an excellent choice for you. You might face a bit of struggle initially, but their forgiving design can help you develop a consistent swing and improve your game.

When it comes to budget, both options fall into the middle range. They are not exactly budget-friendly, but they are also not the most expensive club on the market. They are an excellent investment for those who want to improve their game without breaking the bank.

What I Like About 3 Hybrid Clubs

Let’s talk about 3 hybrid clubs and what makes them great for some golfers but not so much for others. If you’re new to the game or have a high handicap, you might find that 3 hybrids are easier to hit than long irons. 

Plus, their shorter shafts make them more manageable if you don’t have the fastest swing speed. And if it’s windy out on the course, you’ll appreciate the lower ball flight that 3 hybrids can produce.

Here is a list of the bestselling 3 Hybrids on Amazon:

Bestseller No. 1
TaylorMade Golf SIM 2 MAX RESCUE MENS RIGHT HAND GRAPHITE STIFF RESCUE 3-19 DEGREE
  • New V Steel Design. An updated V Steel design redistributes weight to enhance forgiveness while maintaining low CG properties. A depressed heel and toe minimize sole area, adding to V Steel's turf interaction and versatility benefits.
  • C300 Steel Twist Face. High-strength C300 steel allows for a strong fast face engineered for explosive ball speeds, paired with Twist Face technology to overcome inherent golfer tendencies on miss-hits for straighter shots.
  • Tour Validated Performance. Drafting off the success of the original SIM Max Rescue the SIM2 Max Rescue provides a towering flight and great workability for all skill levels.
  • Thru-Slot Speed Pocket. Thru-Slot Speed Pocket provides increased face flexibility, preservation of ball speed and distance, especially on low face strikes.
Bestseller No. 2
Callaway WD RH MAVRIK 22 HY 3H GR STF
  • Flash Face for Exceptional Ball Speed and Unconventional Forgiveness
  • Jailbreak Technology + Face Cup for Fast Ball Speeds
  • Premium Components
  • Imported
Bestseller No. 3
Callaway Golf 2022 Rogue ST Pro Hybrid (Right Hand, Graphite Shaft, Stiff Flex, 3 Hybrid)
  • These hybrids feature anew A.I.-designed Jailbreak system that has been completely redesigned for speed and stability. The two Jailbreak frames are pushed to the perimeter, providing stiffness while allowing the face to flex for high speeds.
  • From Callaway’s high strength 455 Face Cup, they’ve applied an all new A.I. face optimization to include speed, launch and spin. This unique face pattern is customized for each model and loft in the hybrid lineup.
  • Up to 24g of precision tungsten allows for precise Center of Gravity (CG) locations, delivering optimal launch with even more ball speed.
  • The enhanced sole camber promotes better turf interaction and versatility. The fairway wood shaping, shallower face and neutral CG are built to enhance workability for better players.
Bestseller No. 4
Callaway Apex Pro 21 3 Hybrid (Right-Handed, Stiff),Black
  • Apex Pro Hybrids feature Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades that are engineered to increase vertical stiffness near the sole of the club, creating more speed low on the face where players often mishit their hybrids.
  • These blades allow the Face Cup to flex on the crown to promote better spin rate consistency, and the bars are spread to enhance torsional stiffness, leading to more forgiveness all across the face.
  • Every model and face in our Apex hybrids are uniquely designed using advanced A.I. This proven ball speed design puts an even greater emphasis on center and off-center ball speeds.
  • The Forged 455 Steel provides outstanding strength and flexibility while the Face Cup provides speed and spin consistency across the face.
  • With its fixed hosel, Apex Pro offers the look of an iron at address that highly skilled players prefer to see from their hybrids.
Bestseller No. 5
Lazrus Golf | Premium Quality 3 Hybrid Golf Club for Exceptional Performance, Hybrid Golf Clubs for Men with Regular Flex & Graphite Shaft | Golf Clubs for Men (1pc. Right Hand, #3 Single Golf Club)
  • BUDGET FRIENDLY: Dive into the realm of high-end golf with our premium quality 3 hybrid golf clubs for men with regular flex and graphite shaft, manufactured in the same facilities as some of today’s top-tier golf clubs, but at just a fraction of the price. Enjoy premium performance without straining your bank!
  • JOIN THE LAZRUS REVOLUTION: With thousands of Lazrus golf clubs sold, our premium quality black hybrid golf clubs for men are designed for everyday golfers and weekend warriors alike. Play with exceptional performance, achieve remarkable results, and shave strokes off your game with our high-quality golf hybrid clubs for men with regular flex and graphite shaft!
  • TOP-PERFORMING #1 HYBRID GOLF CLUB: Our single hybrid golf club with regular flex and graphite shaft are meticulously crafted to enhance your game. Perfect for those seeking precision, control, and consistency on the course! Elevate your golf experience with the best hybrid golf clubs for men in the market!
  • SUPERIOR SPECIFICATIONS: Designed for right-handed golfers, our premium quality hybrid golf clubs for men feature a graphite shaft and regular flex, complemented by custom Lazrus grips. The deep grooves ensure exceptional spin, control, and consistency whether you’re on the fairway, fringe, or rough.
SaleBestseller No. 6
Callaway Golf Paradym AI Smoke Hybrid (Right Hand, Cypher 60G, 3 Hybrid, Regular)
  • A Breakthrough in Hybrid Performance Powered by AI SMART FACE
  • Contemporary Hybrid Shaping for Modern Golfers
  • Exceptional Distance From The Tungsten Speed Cartridge
SaleBestseller No. 7
Callaway Big Bertha B21 Hybrid (Right, Graphite, Regular, 4 Hybrid) , Silver
  • Big Bertha B-21 Hybrids are built for distance any way you swing it.
  • They create fast ball speeds across an expansive area in each model and loft, with our advanced A.I.-designed Flash Face.
  • We’ve added more offset to help reduce your slice or big miss. This increased offset helps to promote a straighter ball flight for more distance.
  • Fast ball speed also comes from two internal Jailbreak bars that connect the sole and crown, so the face can take on more of the load at impact.
  • Features a completely new RCH shaft, designed by Callaway to specifically enhance the Big Bertha offering, with an Active Tip Flag section for easy launch.
Bestseller No. 8
TaylorMade RocketBallz Tour Rescue - RH/3/Regular
  • Headcover: Included
  • Gender: Mens
  • Type: Woods Utility
  • Condition: New
  • Dexterity: Right-Handed
SaleBestseller No. 9
TaylorMade Golf Stealth2 Plus Rescue 3-19.5/Right Hand Stiff
  • Variable face thickness is engineered to maximize ball speed across the face while maintaining playability and performance in a Tour-inspired shape. A combination of the lightweight titanium body, carbon crown and heavy steel weight delivers optimal weight distribution and premier performance.
  • A combination of the lightweight titanium body, carbon crown and heavy steel weight delivers optimal weight distribution and premier performance. Providing visual contrast between face and crown, the laser etched aid is designed to highlight directional alignment for boosted confidence and accurate aim.
  • Providing visual contrast between face and crown, the laser etched aid is designed to highlight directional alignment for boosted confidence and accurate aim. Our flexible Speed Pocket design is engineered to maximize ball speeds and produce additional forgiveness on low-face strikes..
  • Our flexible Speed Pocket design is engineered to maximize ball speeds and produce additional forgiveness on low-face strikes..
Bestseller No. 10
Callaway Golf 2022 Rogue ST Max OS Hybrid (Right Hand, Graphite Shaft, Regular Flex, 3 Hybrid)
  • These hybrids feature a new A.I.-designed Jailbreak system that’s been completely redesigned for speed and stability. The two Jailbreak frames are pushed to the perimeter, providing stiffness while allowing the face to flex for high speeds.
  • From their high strength 455 Face Cup, Callaway has applied an all new A.I. face optimization to include speed, launch and spin. This unique face pattern is customized for each model and loft in the hybrid lineup.
  • Up to 24g of precision tungsten allows for precise Center of Gravity (CG) locations, delivering optimal launch with even more ball speed.
  • They’ve implemented a larger clubhead design for easy launch, more draw bias and confidence over the ball. The sole construction promotes better turf interaction and versatility.

What I Don’t Like About 3 Hybrid Clubs

However, 3 hybrids might not be the best choice for golfers with faster swing speeds. They just may not generate the distance you’re looking for. And while 3 hybrids can be forgiving, they’re not quite as forgiving as 5 hybrids due to their smaller clubheads. 

So, as with any club, it’s important to find the one that works best for you and your playing style.

What I Like About 5 Hybrid Clubs

Personally, I think there are some great things about these clubs. For one, their larger clubheads make them more forgiving than 3 hybrids. Plus, they’re great for getting a high ball flight, which can be super helpful if you’re trying to land the ball softly on the green. 

And if you’re someone with a faster swing speed, you’ll definitely appreciate the longer shaft and the extra distance it can generate.

Here is a list of the bestselling 5 Hybrids on Amazon:

Bestseller No. 1
Callaway Big Bertha B21 Hybrid (Right, Graphite, Regular, 5 Hybrid) , Silver
  • Big Bertha B-21 Hybrids are built for distance any way you swing it.
  • They create fast ball speeds across an expansive area in each model and loft, with our advanced A.I.-designed Flash Face.
  • We’ve added more offset to help reduce your slice or big miss. This increased offset helps to promote a straighter ball flight for more distance.
  • Fast ball speed also comes from two internal Jailbreak bars that connect the sole and crown, so the face can take on more of the load at impact.
  • Features a completely new RCH shaft, designed by Callaway to specifically enhance the Big Bertha offering, with an Active Tip Flag section for easy launch.
SaleBestseller No. 2
Callaway Golf Paradym AI Smoke Hybrid (Right Hand, Cypher 70G, 5 Hybrid, Stiff)
  • A Breakthrough in Hybrid Performance Powered by AI SMART FACE
  • Contemporary Hybrid Shaping for Modern Golfers
  • Exceptional Distance From The Tungsten Speed Cartridge
Bestseller No. 3
Callaway WD RH MAVRIK 22 HY 3H GR STF
  • Flash Face for Exceptional Ball Speed and Unconventional Forgiveness
  • Jailbreak Technology + Face Cup for Fast Ball Speeds
  • Premium Components
  • Imported
Bestseller No. 4
TaylorMade M4 Hybrid (5-25, Stiff Flex, Right Hand)
  • Two internally split mass pads that increase inertia to deliver more ball speed across the face; Two-tone crown cosmetic in a low profile shape provides a confidence-inspiring look
  • Improved speed pocket: our revolutionary speed pocket has been lengthened to increase flexibility and distance across the face
  • Low-face strikes will be rewarded with the improved speed pocket by preserving ball speeds for consistent distance
  • Split internal weights
Bestseller No. 5
Callaway Golf 2022 Rogue ST Max OS Hybrid (Right Hand, Graphite Shaft, Regular Flex, 5 Hybrid)
  • These hybrids feature a new A.I.-designed Jailbreak system that’s been completely redesigned for speed and stability. The two Jailbreak frames are pushed to the perimeter, providing stiffness while allowing the face to flex for high speeds.
  • From their high strength 455 Face Cup, Callaway has applied an all new A.I. face optimization to include speed, launch and spin. This unique face pattern is customized for each model and loft in the hybrid lineup.
  • Up to 24g of precision tungsten allows for precise Center of Gravity (CG) locations, delivering optimal launch with even more ball speed.
  • They’ve implemented a larger clubhead design for easy launch, more draw bias and confidence over the ball. The sole construction promotes better turf interaction and versatility.
Bestseller No. 6
TaylorMade Golf SIM 2 MAX RESCUE MENS RIGHT HAND GRAPHITE STIFF RESCUE 3-19 DEGREE
  • New V Steel Design. An updated V Steel design redistributes weight to enhance forgiveness while maintaining low CG properties. A depressed heel and toe minimize sole area, adding to V Steel's turf interaction and versatility benefits.
  • C300 Steel Twist Face. High-strength C300 steel allows for a strong fast face engineered for explosive ball speeds, paired with Twist Face technology to overcome inherent golfer tendencies on miss-hits for straighter shots.
  • Tour Validated Performance. Drafting off the success of the original SIM Max Rescue the SIM2 Max Rescue provides a towering flight and great workability for all skill levels.
  • Thru-Slot Speed Pocket. Thru-Slot Speed Pocket provides increased face flexibility, preservation of ball speed and distance, especially on low face strikes.
Bestseller No. 7
Lazrus Golf | Premium Quality 5 Hybrid Golf Club for Exceptional Performance, Hybrid Golf Clubs for Men with Regular Flex & Graphite Shaft | Golf Clubs for Men (1pc. Right Hand, 5 Single Golf Club)
  • BUDGET FRIENDLY: Dive into the realm of high-end golf with our premium quality 5 hybrid golf clubs for men with regular flex and graphite shaft, manufactured in the same facilities as some of today’s top-tier golf clubs, but at just a fraction of the price. Enjoy premium performance without straining your bank!
  • JOIN THE LAZRUS REVOLUTION: With thousands of Lazrus golf clubs sold, our premium quality silver hybrid golf clubs for men are designed for everyday golfers and weekend warriors alike. Play with exceptional performance, achieve remarkable results, and shave strokes off your game with our high-quality golf hybrid clubs for men with regular flex and graphite shaft!
  • TOP-PERFORMING #1 HYBRID GOLF CLUB: Our single hybrid golf club with regular flex and graphite shaft are meticulously crafted to enhance your game. Perfect for those seeking precision, control, and consistency on the course! Elevate your golf experience with the best hybrid golf clubs for men in the market!
  • SUPERIOR SPECIFICATIONS: Designed for right-handed golfers, our premium quality hybrid golf clubs for men feature a graphite shaft and regular flex, complemented by custom Lazrus grips. The deep grooves ensure exceptional spin, control, and consistency whether you’re on the fairway, fringe, or rough.
Bestseller No. 8
Callaway Golf 2023 Paradym X Hybrid (Right Hand, 75G Graphite Shaft, Stiff Flex, 5 Hybrid)
  • Item Package Dimension: 44.19L x 5.54W x 3.95H inches
  • Item Package Weight - 1.51 Pounds
  • Item Package Quantity - 1
  • Product Type - GOLF CLUB
SaleBestseller No. 9
TaylorMade Golf Qi10 Rescue #5 25 Degree Regular Right Handed
  • This 270° crown construction optimizes the club's MOI by redistributing mass to the perimeter, ensuring forgiveness and stability. - Inverted Cone Technology (ICT) is individualized for each club, optimizing COR across the entire face.
  • Weight placement at the club's edges increases MOI, preserving top-notch ball speed and ensuring forgiveness..
  • Combined with Speed Pocket technology, it enhances ball speed and improves spin on low face shots. Weight placement at the club's edges increases MOI, preserving top-notch ball speed and ensuring forgiveness..
  • Inverted Cone Technology (ICT) is individualized for each club, optimizing COR across the entire face. Combined with Speed Pocket technology, it enhances ball speed and improves spin on low face shots.
SaleBestseller No. 10
Callaway Golf Paradym AI Smoke HL Hybrid (Right Hand, Cypher 60G, 5 Hybrid, Regular)
  • A BREAKTHROUGH IN HYBRID PERFORMANCE POWERED BY AI SMART FACE
  • Contemporary Hybrid Shaping for Modern Golfers
  • Exceptional Distance From The Tungsten Speed Cartridge

What I Don’t Like About 5 Hybrid Clubs

That being said, 5 hybrids might not be the best choice for everyone. If you’re a beginner or have a high handicap, you might struggle a bit with the longer shafts and have a harder time controlling your shots. 

And keep in mind that the high ball flight can work against you if you’re trying to play in windy conditions and need to keep the ball low.

Pros and Cons

3 Hybrid

ProsCons
Better for hitting from tight liesNot as forgiving as a 5 hybrid
Easier to control trajectoryMore difficult to hit from the rough,
More versatile than a 3 ironLess effective for high approach shots.

5 Hybrid 

ProsCons
More forgiving than a 3 hybridMore difficult to control trajectory
Easier to hit from the roughLess versatile than a 3 hybrid
Better for high approach shotsNot as effective from tight lies.

What’s Included?

When you purchase any of these hybrid club, you can expect to receive the following items:

  • The hybrid club itself
  • Headcover
  • Instruction manual

In terms of extras or accessories, there are no other items included in the package.

Overall, I’m quite satisfied with the contents of the package. However, it would have been nice to see some extra accessories or tools included, such as a club cleaning brush or a divot repair tool.

Features

The primary features of the hybrid clubs are as follows:

3 Hybrid Club Features

  • Can replace your 3 or 4 iron
  • Ideal for hitting long shots from the fairway or rough
  • Provides more forgiveness and easier launch compared to traditional long irons
  • Typically has a loft angle of 19-22 degrees 

In my opinion, the features of the 3 Hybrid Club are excellent. Its ability to replace your 3 or 4 iron and provide more forgiveness and easier launch make it a must-have for any golfer struggling with their long irons. 

Its loft angle range is also ideal for hitting long shots from the fairway or rough. The only potential weakness of this club is that experienced golfers who already have a consistent swing may not find it as useful.

5 Hybrid Club Features

  • Ideal for golfers struggling with their 5 or 6 iron
  • Great for hitting approach shots into greens or from the rough
  • Provides more forgiveness and easier launch compared to traditional long irons
  • Typically has a loft angle of 25-28 degrees 

The features of the 5 Hybrid Club are also impressive. Its ability to help golfers struggling with their 5 or 6 iron and its loft angle range make it great for hitting approach shots into greens or from the rough. 

Like the 3 Hybrid Club, it provides more forgiveness and easier launch compared to traditional long irons. However, experienced golfers who already have a consistent swing may not find it as useful, and it may not be the best option for hitting long shots from the fairway or rough.

Final Breakdown

I give both the 3 hybrid and 5 hybrid a score of 9 out of 10.They both offer excellent performance and are a great addition to any golfer’s bag.

If you’re looking for a versatile club that can handle a variety of shots and lies, then the 3 hybrid is the way to go. However, if you struggle with hitting from the rough or need help getting the ball in the air, then the 5 hybrid may be the better choice.

Overall, I would definitely recommend these clubs to anyone looking to upgrade their game. They are well-made, perform great on the course, and offer excellent value for the price.

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Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API