Mallet vs Blade Putters: What's the Difference?
Choosing the right putter can have a big impact on your confidence and consistency on the greens. If you're shopping for a putter, you'll quickly notice that most models fall into one of two categories: blade putters and mallet putters. While both are designed to help you hole more putts, they have some important differences that can affect how they perform and feel.
What Is a Blade Putter?
A blade putter is the traditional style of putter that has been used by golfers for decades. It features a relatively narrow and compact head shape, giving it a clean and classic appearance.
Many golfers enjoy blade putters because they provide excellent feel and feedback. This means you can often tell exactly where on the face the ball was struck. Players who value precision and a traditional look often prefer blade putters.
Pictured: Traditional blade putter
What Is a Mallet Putter?
A mallet putter has a larger and often more distinctive head shape than a blade putter. The additional size allows manufacturers to position weight around the perimeter of the clubhead, helping to improve stability during the putting stroke.
Many mallet putters also include alignment aids, such as lines or markings on the top of the head, making it easier to aim at your target. For this reason, mallet putters are often popular with beginners and golfers looking for greater consistency on the greens.
Pictured: Modern mallet putter
Blade Putter vs Mallet Putter: Key Differences
| Feature | Blade Putter | Mallet Putter |
|---|---|---|
| Head Size | Smaller and compact | Larger and wider |
| Appearance | Traditional and simple | Modern and distinctive |
| Forgiveness | Less forgiving on off-centre strikes | More forgiving on off-centre strikes |
| Alignment | Fewer alignment features | Often includes alignment aids |
| Feel | More feedback at impact | Softer and more stable feel |
Which Putter Is Right for You?
There is no universally "best" putter. The right choice depends on your preferences and putting style.
A blade putter may suit golfers who like a traditional appearance and enjoy receiving more feedback from each putt. A mallet putter may be a better option for golfers seeking extra forgiveness, improved alignment and greater confidence over the ball.
If possible, try both styles before making a decision. What feels comfortable to one golfer may not suit another.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between a mallet putter and a blade putter can make it much easier to choose the right club for your game. Both styles have their advantages, and neither is inherently better than the other.
At Fairway Finds, we stock a wide range of quality used golf putters, including both blade and mallet designs, helping golfers find the right equipment at great value.