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 Regular Rescue 3-19 Degree, Black/White

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.
Swing Weight: D3

Bestseller No. 2

TaylorMade RocketBallz Tour Rescue - RH/3/Regular

Headcover: Included

Gender: Mens
Type: Woods Utility
Condition: New

Dexterity: Right-Handed

Bestseller No. 3

Callaway Golf 2020 Mavrik Hybrid (Left Hand, Graphite, Stiff, 3 Hybrid)

For the MAVRIK Hybrids, we used A. I. to design a specialized face for each loft of every model to optimize ball speed performance in all MAVRIK hybrids.
The Flash Face SS20 constructed from a high-strength steel face works with proven Jailbreak technology and our renowned Face Cup Technology to promote exceptionally high ball speed.

From a square-toed shape to a cambered fairway-wood shape, this complete hybrid lineup gives players a great choice between an easier launch or more penetrating ball flight.
Ideal combination of speed, stability and CG placement to promote easy launch, long carry and soft landings – exactly how a hybrid is expected to perform.
Included Components: Hybrid And Headcover

SaleBestseller No. 4

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. 5

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. 6

LAZRUS GOLF Premium Hybrid Golf Clubs for Men - 2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,PW Right Hand & Left Hand Single Club, Graphite Shafts, Regular Flex (#3, RH, Black Single, Black Right Hand)

GOLF HYBRIDS SOLD AS SINGLES: Thousands of Lazrus Golf clubs sold worldwide! Please choose right or left hand above. All skill levels!

SPECS: Graphite shafts – (2 hybrid/15 degree/41 length) – (3 hybrid/18 degree/40.5 length) – (4 hybrid/21 degree/40 length) – (5 hybrid/24 degree/39.5 length) – (6 hybrid/27 degree/39 length) – (7 hybrid/32 degree/38.75 length) – (8 hybrid/36 degree/39.25 length) – (9 hybrid/40 degree/37.75 length) – (PW hybrid/45 degree/37.25 length)
HANDS DOWN THE BEST QUALITY: Lazrus golf hybrids are made in the same place as some of today's "top" golf clubs - For 1/4 the price!
PRO QUALITY WITHOUT THE PRICE: Our premium hybrids for golf were created for normal everyday golfers like you, weekend warriors or scratch golfers but without the crazy price tag. Truly amazing golf clubs that will shave strokes at an amazing price.

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: Absolute 100% risk free purchase. Don't LOVE it? Simply return it! A deal that cannot be beat anywhere in the golf industry!

SaleBestseller No. 7

TaylorMade Golf Qi10 Rescue #3 19 Degree Stiff 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. 8

Cobra Golf DARKSPEED Hybrid

Refined aerodynamic design

Tour inspired shaping
Larger PWRShell with A.I. designed H.O.T. face
Faster ball speed

Max Workability with added forgiveness

Bestseller No. 9

New Callaway Apex 19 3 Hybrid 20° KuroKage Black 80 Regular

A beautiful Apex shape with a classic dark PVD finish and premium components.
Controlled Ball Flight and Workability From Precision Shaping.

Jailbreak Technology incorporates two internal bars that stiffen the body, placing more impact load on the face to promote fast ball speed and long distance.
Forged Face Cup made from Carpenter 455 Steel.
Apex 19 Hybrids provide a neutral bias for the controlled ball flight with workability that better players want to see.

SaleBestseller No. 10

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

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

TaylorMade Golf SIM 2 MAX Rescue Mens Right Hand Graphite Regular Rescue 5-25 Degree, Black/White

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.

SaleBestseller No. 2

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. 3

PXG 2022 0211 Hybrid - 19 Degree - Right Hand - Stiff Flex - Graphite Shaft

SIMPLY FAST & FAR - Approachable and advanced, PXG 0211 Hybrids feature a clean, classic design built from high-caliber materials. PXG 0211 Hybrids deliver high ball speeds, controlled spin rate, unbelievable distance, and an incredible sound and feel for a killer price – without sacrificing quality.
MATERIALS - AM355 stainless steel body. HT1770 stainless steel face.

HOSEL - Streamlined, fixed hosel design
THE SHAFT: Customize your play with our diverse shaft options: Ladies Flex for swing speeds under 60 mph enhances flexibility; Senior Flex targets 60-70 mph for a balance of flex and stability; Regular Flex, ideal for 70-80 mph, offers control; Stiff Flex for 80-90 mph ensures precision; X-Stiff Flex exceeds 90 mph for ultimate control.

Bestseller No. 4

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.

Bestseller No. 5

Tour Edge Hot Launch E522 Hybrid (Right, MCA Fubuki Graphite, Regular, #5)

Tour Edge Hot Launch E522
30% Further Back Center of Gravity- The Houdini Sole was instrumental in significantly altering the Center of Gravity placement of the E522 hybrid. The Center of Gravity is 30% further back than its predecessor, making E522 the highest launching and easiest to hit hybrid Tour Edge has produced. It also helped raise the Moment of Inertia (MOI) of the clubhead by 9%.

Slice Fighting Offset/Shallow Cup Face Designs - The super-shallow Cup Face design in the Hot Launch E522 Hybrid produces higher launch angles and extreme ease of launch. The E522 offset designs are engineered to help golfers avoid hitting slices and to increase launch conditions.
Premium Mitsubishi Fubuki Shaft - The E Series Hybrid comes stock with the same super-light FUBUKI metalwood shafts by Mitsubishi that range from 50-grams to 60-grams depending on the flex and provides lower kick points that promise to help players achieve maximum velocity and a slightly drawn ball flight.

Bestseller No. 6

Callaway Golf 2020 Mavrik Hybrid (Right Hand, Graphite, Light, 5 Hybrid)

For the MAVRIK Hybrids, we used A. I. to design a specialized face for each loft of every model to optimize ball speed performance in all MAVRIK hybrids.

The Flash Face SS20 constructed from a high-strength steel face works with proven Jailbreak technology and our renowned Face Cup Technology to promote exceptionally high ball speed.
From a square-toed shape to a cambered fairway-wood shape, this complete hybrid lineup gives players a great choice between an easier launch or more penetrating ball flight.
Ideal combination of speed, stability and CG placement to promote easy launch, long carry and soft landings – exactly how a hybrid is expected to perform.

Included Components: Hybrid And Headcover

Bestseller No. 7

LAZRUS GOLF Premium Hybrid Golf Clubs for Men - 2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,PW Right Hand & Left Hand Single Club, Graphite Shafts, Regular Flex (Left Hand, #5, Black Single, Black Left Hand)

GOLF HYBRIDS SOLD AS SINGLES: Thousands of Lazrus Golf clubs sold worldwide! Please choose right or left hand above. All skill levels!
SPECS: Graphite shafts – (2 hybrid/15 degree/41 length) – (3 hybrid/18 degree/40.5 length) – (4 hybrid/21 degree/40 length) – (5 hybrid/24 degree/39.5 length) – (6 hybrid/27 degree/39 length) – (7 hybrid/32 degree/38.75 length) – (8 hybrid/36 degree/39.25 length) – (9 hybrid/40 degree/37.75 length) – (PW hybrid/45 degree/37.25 length)

HANDS DOWN THE BEST QUALITY: Lazrus golf hybrids are made in the same place as some of today's "top" golf clubs - For 1/4 the price!
PRO QUALITY WITHOUT THE PRICE: Our premium hybrids for golf were created for normal everyday golfers like you, weekend warriors or scratch golfers but without the crazy price tag. Truly amazing golf clubs that will shave strokes at an amazing price.
BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: Absolute 100% risk free purchase. Don't LOVE it? Simply return it! A deal that cannot be beat anywhere in the golf industry!

Bestseller No. 8

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. 9

Callaway Golf Paradym AI Smoke 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

Bestseller No. 10

Callaway Golf Great Big Bertha Golf Hybrid (Right Hand,Regular Flex,5 Hybrid)

Legendary Great Big Bertha Distance from an Innovative, Lightweight Design
Forged Carbon Sole & Triaxial Carbon Crown Increase MOI

High Ball Speeds from Jailbreak Speed Frame
Lower Spin from an A.I. Designed Flash Face

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

Pros	Cons
Better for hitting from tight lies	Not as forgiving as a 5 hybrid
Easier to control trajectory	More difficult to hit from the rough,
More versatile than a 3 iron	Less effective for high approach shots.

5 Hybrid

Pros	Cons
More forgiving than a 3 hybrid	More difficult to control trajectory
Easier to hit from the rough	Less versatile than a 3 hybrid
Better for high approach shots	Not 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.

Last update on 2025-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API