Apex Pro 21 vs. P790

Golf is a great sport loved by many worldwide. And having the right equipment can make all the difference in your game. There are a lot of options out there, and two popular sets you may be considering are the Apex Pro 21 and the TaylorMade P790.

The main difference between the Apex Pro 21 and P790 is that the Apex Pro 21 has a classic design with a sleek finish, and its forged construction provides a soft feel and excellent feedback. It’s also extremely forgiving, making it a great option for golfers who tend to mis-hit their shots. The P790, on the other hand, boasts a unique hollow construction that offers a high launch and faster ball speeds, as well as tungsten weighting for increased stability and control.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. In this review, I’ll break down the similarities and differences between the two sets to help you make an informed decision. I will examine the primary features, pros and cons, technical specifications, and more. This will help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the perfect set of golf clubs for you.

The Apex Pro 21 is a set of golf clubs that was launched in 2021 by Callaway as an upgrade to their famous Apex Pro line. These clubs are designed for intermediate to advanced players who want high-performing clubs. The set includes 8 clubs, from 3-iron to pitching wedge, and is available in steel and graphite shafts.

The P790 is a set of golf clubs by TaylorMade that was first launched in 2017 and later updated in 2019. These clubs are designed for intermediate to advanced players who want high-performing clubs. The set includes 7 clubs, from 4-iron to pitching wedge, and is available in steel and graphite shafts.

Is Apex Pro 21 or P790 for you?

Both the Apex Pro 21 and P790 are designed for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for high-performing golf clubs. I do not recommend this for beginners who are still working on improving their swing and accuracy. 

In terms of budget, both sets are on the expensive side, with the Apex Pro 21 being slightly pricier than the P790. However, when it comes to performance and durability, both sets are worth the investment.

Callaway Apex Pro 21 Iron Set (Set of 8 Clubs: 4-PW+AW, Right-Handed, Steel, Stiff)
  • Apex Pro 21 Irons are redesigned from the ground up, with an innovative A.I. face architecture and all new forged hollow body construction for scratch or single digit handicappers.
  • Our unique A.I. designed Flash Face Cup architecture in each iron creates high COR’s for fast ball speeds, and improved spin robustness for every club.
  • This is what extremely soft feel is all about. The all-new forged 1025 hollow body construction and our patented urethane microspheres provide a remarkable blend of sound and feel at impact that players expect.
  • The hollow body construction includes up to 90 grams of tungsten per iron, the most ever in an Apex Iron. This Tungsten Energy Core improves launch characteristics while simultaneously improving forgiveness.
Sale
TaylorMade P790 KBS Shaft 4-P/Rh S
  • Newly engineered SpeedFoam Air is 69% lighter than its predecessor. It provides up to 3.5g of weight savings that has been redistributed to further optimize mass properties for better launch conditions. The new formulation delivers a sweet sound and solid feel while delivering a fast, flexible face.
  • A new 8620 carbon steel construction makes the head thinner by up to 37.5% in strategic locations, allowing for a significantly lower CG placement. This new thin-walled design pairs with a responsive 1.5mm forged 4140 steel L-Face to promote supreme flexibility, fast ball speeds and distance while upholding a premium forged feel.
  • The Thru-Slot Speed Pocket provides increased face flexibility while preserving ball speed and distance on low face strikes.
  • The sweet spot size has been increased by up to 60% compared to the original P790. Using data analytics, we have repositioned the sweet spot lower on the face to naturally capture more shots and provide performance where golfers need it most.
  • Engineers developed new construction methods to thin out the body, allowing for up to 31g of tungsten to be placed in the toe. It creates a massive amount of stability and forgiveness wrapped in a players package.

What I like about Apex Pro 21?

The Apex Pro 21 has several features that make them stand out in the market. The forged hollow body construction provides maximum distance and forgiveness. The tungsten-infused weights in the long irons improve launch and ball flight. Furthermore, the A.I.-designed flash face technology offers faster ball speed and more spin consistency.

What I don’t like about Apex Pro 21?

You may take some time to get used to the thinner blade profile, especially if you are used to thicker club heads. Also, the price point may be a barrier for some players who are looking for a more affordable option.

What I like about the P790?

The hollow body construction and thin face design provide a soft feel and maximum distance. The speed foam technology enhances sound and feels while also improving ball speed and forgiveness. The low profile tungsten weight design provides a lower center of gravity for improved launch and distance.

What I don’t like about the P790?

The club head may be too large for you if you prefer a more traditional look. The set only includes irons, so you will need to purchase additional clubs separately.

Pros & Cons 

Apex Pro 21

ProsCons
Sleek design with clean lines and minimal offsetLess forgiving than some game improvement irons
Consistent ball flight and shot-shaping abilityCan be more difficult to hit for high handicappers
Forgiveness on off-center hitsSlightly less distance than some other models
Good control and accuracy on approach shotsMay require more practice to master

P790

ProsCons
Excellent distance with low spinMore expensive than some comparable models
Great feel and feedback on impactSome golfers may prefer a softer feel on impact
Appealing, classic design, versatile and easy to work the ballLess workable than some players may prefer
Callaway Apex Pro 21 Iron Set (Set of 8 Clubs: 4-PW+AW, Right-Handed, Steel, Stiff)
  • Apex Pro 21 Irons are redesigned from the ground up, with an innovative A.I. face architecture and all new forged hollow body construction for scratch or single digit handicappers.
  • Our unique A.I. designed Flash Face Cup architecture in each iron creates high COR’s for fast ball speeds, and improved spin robustness for every club.
  • This is what extremely soft feel is all about. The all-new forged 1025 hollow body construction and our patented urethane microspheres provide a remarkable blend of sound and feel at impact that players expect.
  • The hollow body construction includes up to 90 grams of tungsten per iron, the most ever in an Apex Iron. This Tungsten Energy Core improves launch characteristics while simultaneously improving forgiveness.
Sale
TaylorMade P790 KBS Shaft 4-P/Rh S
  • Newly engineered SpeedFoam Air is 69% lighter than its predecessor. It provides up to 3.5g of weight savings that has been redistributed to further optimize mass properties for better launch conditions. The new formulation delivers a sweet sound and solid feel while delivering a fast, flexible face.
  • A new 8620 carbon steel construction makes the head thinner by up to 37.5% in strategic locations, allowing for a significantly lower CG placement. This new thin-walled design pairs with a responsive 1.5mm forged 4140 steel L-Face to promote supreme flexibility, fast ball speeds and distance while upholding a premium forged feel.
  • The Thru-Slot Speed Pocket provides increased face flexibility while preserving ball speed and distance on low face strikes.
  • The sweet spot size has been increased by up to 60% compared to the original P790. Using data analytics, we have repositioned the sweet spot lower on the face to naturally capture more shots and provide performance where golfers need it most.
  • Engineers developed new construction methods to thin out the body, allowing for up to 31g of tungsten to be placed in the toe. It creates a massive amount of stability and forgiveness wrapped in a players package.

What’s Included?

Apex Pro 21

The Apex Pro 21 comes with:

  • Standard set of 8 clubs: 4-PW, AW, and SW. 
  • True Temper Elevate ETS 115 steel shafts, which are lightweight and provide consistent performance.
  • A golf bag that has ample storage space for your accessories and is comfortable to carry.

P790

The P790 set includes:

  • 8 clubs, but it consists of a 3-iron in addition to the 4-PW, AW, and SW. 
  • A golf bag that is lightweight and easy to carry.

In terms of the included accessories and extras, both sets are pretty standard. There are no glaring omissions, but nothing particularly exceptional either. Overall, I am satisfied with the contents of both sets. However, the P790 set’s inclusion of a 3-iron may make it more appealing to golfers who prefer a more extensive set of clubs.

Features

Apex Pro 21

  • Classic design with a sleek look. 
  • Forged iron construction for excellent feel and control. 
  • Designed with tungsten weights in the sole to create a lower CG and increases ball speed. 
  • Urethane microsphere to dampen vibration for improved sound and feels.

P790

  • Slim profile and clean lines. 
  • Uses hollow body construction with a thin face to increases ball speed and distance. 
  • Tungsten weighting in the sole and perimeter for increased forgiveness and stability. 

Both sets have excellent features that cater to different types of golfers. The Apex Pro 21 set is ideal for golfers who prioritize control and precision, while the P790 set is suitable for golfers who prefer distance and forgiveness.

Final Breakdown

In terms of performance and overall quality, both the Apex Pro 21 and P790 are exceptional golf irons. They both offer excellent control, distance, and accuracy, making them a great choice for both amateurs and professionals.

The Apex Pro 21 has a classic design with a sleek finish, and its forged construction provides a soft feel and excellent feedback. It’s also extremely forgiving, which makes it a great option for golfers who tend to mis-hit their shots.

On the other hand, the P790 boasts a unique hollow construction that offers a high launch and faster ball speeds. Its clean, streamlined design is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The iron’s tungsten weighting system provides additional stability and control.

Overall, it’s tough to choose between these two irons, but I give the edge to the Apex Pro 21 due to its superior feel and feedback. However, both options are top-of-the-line and would make an excellent addition to any golfer’s bag.

Callaway Apex Pro 21 Iron Set (Set of 8 Clubs: 4-PW+AW, Right-Handed, Steel, Stiff)
  • Apex Pro 21 Irons are redesigned from the ground up, with an innovative A.I. face architecture and all new forged hollow body construction for scratch or single digit handicappers.
  • Our unique A.I. designed Flash Face Cup architecture in each iron creates high COR’s for fast ball speeds, and improved spin robustness for every club.
  • This is what extremely soft feel is all about. The all-new forged 1025 hollow body construction and our patented urethane microspheres provide a remarkable blend of sound and feel at impact that players expect.
  • The hollow body construction includes up to 90 grams of tungsten per iron, the most ever in an Apex Iron. This Tungsten Energy Core improves launch characteristics while simultaneously improving forgiveness.
Sale
TaylorMade P790 KBS Shaft 4-P/Rh S
  • Newly engineered SpeedFoam Air is 69% lighter than its predecessor. It provides up to 3.5g of weight savings that has been redistributed to further optimize mass properties for better launch conditions. The new formulation delivers a sweet sound and solid feel while delivering a fast, flexible face.
  • A new 8620 carbon steel construction makes the head thinner by up to 37.5% in strategic locations, allowing for a significantly lower CG placement. This new thin-walled design pairs with a responsive 1.5mm forged 4140 steel L-Face to promote supreme flexibility, fast ball speeds and distance while upholding a premium forged feel.
  • The Thru-Slot Speed Pocket provides increased face flexibility while preserving ball speed and distance on low face strikes.
  • The sweet spot size has been increased by up to 60% compared to the original P790. Using data analytics, we have repositioned the sweet spot lower on the face to naturally capture more shots and provide performance where golfers need it most.
  • Engineers developed new construction methods to thin out the body, allowing for up to 31g of tungsten to be placed in the toe. It creates a massive amount of stability and forgiveness wrapped in a players package.

I highly recommend the Apex Pro 21 and P790 to any golfer looking for a high-quality iron that delivers exceptional performance and control on the course. Both options are among the best on the market and will undoubtedly enhance your game.

Last update on 2024-04-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API