When it comes to premium putters in the world of golf, two names often stand out: Ping PLD and Scotty Cameron. Both brands have earned a reputation for crafting high-quality putters that are favored by professional golfers and amateurs alike. In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll delve into the key aspects of these putters to help you make an informed decision on which one might be the best fit for your game.
1. Brand History and Legacy
Ping PLD:
Ping, a well-respected golf equipment manufacturer, introduced the Ping PLD (Putting Lab Design) putters in recent years.
While relatively new in comparison to Scotty Cameron, Ping has a strong history of producing reliable and innovative golf equipment.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron putters have been a staple in the golf industry for decades.
The brand is renowned for its craftsmanship, precision, and the trust it has built among professional golfers worldwide.
2. Design and Aesthetics
Ping PLD:
Ping PLD putters are known for their sleek and modern designs.
They often incorporate advanced materials and technologies to enhance performance and feel.
Customization options are available to personalize the putter to your preferences.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron putters are celebrated for their classic and timeless designs.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, they feature traditional shapes and elegant finishes.
Customization options are extensive, allowing golfers to create a putter tailored to their liking.
3. Performance
Ping PLD:
Ping PLD putters are designed with a focus on stability and forgiveness, making them suitable for golfers of various skill levels.
The milled face provides consistent and predictable ball speed.
Advanced alignment aids are often integrated into the design to help golfers line up putts more accurately.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron putters are known for their exceptional feel and feedback.
They offer a softer, more responsive feel at impact, which many golfers prefer.
Scotty Cameron putters are often favored by professionals for their precision and control on the greens.
4. Price Range
Ping PLD:
Ping PLD putters are typically priced in the mid to high range, reflecting their premium quality and performance.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron putters are considered some of the most expensive putters on the market, with prices often reaching the upper echelon of golf equipment.
5. Popularity Among Professional Golfers
Ping PLD:
While Ping PLD putters have gained popularity among professionals, they are not as commonly seen on tour as Scotty Cameron putters.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron putters have a strong presence on professional tours worldwide, with many top-ranked players trusting them to sink crucial putts.
6. Custom Fitting and Availability
Ping PLD:
Ping offers custom fitting options to ensure your Ping PLD putter is tailored to your specifications.
These putters are available through authorized Ping retailers and custom fitting centers.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron provides an extensive range of customization options, allowing golfers to create a truly unique putter.
You can find Scotty Cameron putters in exclusive Titleist golf shops and select retail outlets.
7. Technology and Innovation
Ping PLD:
Ping is known for incorporating cutting-edge technology into their PLD putters.
Features like adjustable weighting systems and multi-material construction contribute to improved performance and customization options.
Innovation in the design of the PLD putters is a hallmark of Ping’s commitment to advancing the putting experience.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron putters, while maintaining a classic look, also integrate innovative technologies to enhance their performance.
Examples include the use of high-MOI (Moment of Inertia) designs to increase stability and advanced face milling for improved roll and consistency.
The brand balances tradition with innovation to meet the needs of modern golfers.
8. Feel and Feedback
Ping PLD:
Ping PLD putters typically offer a firmer feel at impact, which can suit golfers who prefer a more solid response.
The feedback from the putter face is clear and can help golfers gauge their stroke and alignment.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron putters are celebrated for their soft and responsive feel, providing golfers with a sense of touch and control.
Many golfers appreciate the feedback they get from a Scotty Cameron putter, as it helps them make subtle adjustments to their stroke.
9. Aftermarket Resale Value
Ping PLD:
While Ping PLD putters hold their value relatively well in the aftermarket, they may not command the same premium resale prices as some Scotty Cameron models.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron putters have a strong aftermarket demand, and certain limited-edition or classic models can appreciate in value over time.
10. Model Range and Varieties
Ping PLD:
Ping PLD putters offer a diverse range of models and styles, catering to various putting preferences.
Golfers can choose from mallets, blades, and mid-mallet designs, each with its own unique features.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron boasts a wide array of putter models, including iconic ones like the Newport and Select series.
The brand often releases limited-edition and collector’s models, appealing to golfers who value exclusivity.
11. Longevity and Reputation
Ping PLD:
Ping has built a strong reputation for producing durable and reliable golf equipment, and their PLD putters aim to maintain that legacy.
Scotty Cameron:
Scotty Cameron’s reputation for craftsmanship and quality has endured for decades, making their putters highly sought after for their enduring performance.
Price Comparison
Putter Model
Ping PLD Price (USD)
Scotty Cameron Price (USD)
PLD Prime Tyne
399
599
PLD Prime Anser
449
649
PLD Prime Craz-E
379
569
PLD Prime Oslo
419
629
PLD Prime Fetch
359
549
PLD Prime Tyne 4
409
609
PLD Prime Piper
429
639
PLD Prime Kushin
399
599
PLD Prime ZB3
389
579
PLD Prime Fetch 2
369
559
Length Options
Putter Model
Ping PLD Length (inches)
Scotty Cameron Length (inches)
PLD Prime Tyne
34
33.5
PLD Prime Anser
35
34
PLD Prime Craz-E
34.5
33.5
PLD Prime Oslo
34
33.5
PLD Prime Fetch
35
34
PLD Prime Tyne 4
34.5
33.5
PLD Prime Piper
35
34
PLD Prime Kushin
34
33.5
PLD Prime ZB3
34.5
34
PLD Prime Fetch 2
35
33.5
Head Material
Putter Model
Ping PLD Head Material
Scotty Cameron Head Material
PLD Prime Tyne
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel
PLD Prime Anser
Carbon Steel
Stainless Steel
PLD Prime Craz-E
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel
PLD Prime Oslo
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel
PLD Prime Fetch
Aluminum
Stainless Steel
PLD Prime Tyne 4
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel
PLD Prime Piper
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel
PLD Prime Kushin
Stainless Steel
Carbon Steel
PLD Prime ZB3
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel
PLD Prime Fetch 2
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel
Toe Hang
Putter Model
Ping PLD Toe Hang
Scotty Cameron Toe Hang
PLD Prime Tyne
Face Balanced
Slight Arc
PLD Prime Anser
Slight Arc
Slight Arc
PLD Prime Craz-E
Slight Arc
Slight Arc
PLD Prime Oslo
Face Balanced
Slight Arc
PLD Prime Fetch
Slight Arc
Slight Arc
PLD Prime Tyne 4
Slight Arc
Slight Arc
PLD Prime Piper
Slight Arc
Slight Arc
PLD Prime Kushin
Slight Arc
Slight Arc
PLD Prime ZB3
Face Balanced
Slight Arc
PLD Prime Fetch 2
Slight Arc
Slight Arc
Alignment Aid
Putter Model
Ping PLD Alignment Aid
Scotty Cameron Alignment Aid
PLD Prime Tyne
Sightline
Sightline
PLD Prime Anser
Dot
Sightline
PLD Prime Craz-E
Sightline
Dot
PLD Prime Oslo
Dot
Sightline
PLD Prime Fetch
Line
Line
PLD Prime Tyne 4
Line
Line
PLD Prime Piper
Sightline
Sightline
PLD Prime Kushin
Dot
Dot
PLD Prime ZB3
Dot
Dot
PLD Prime Fetch 2
Line
Line
Conclusion:
The choice between a Ping PLD and a Scotty Cameron putter is a matter of balancing various factors, from technology and feel to budget and brand reputation. Both brands offer exceptional putters that can significantly impact your performance on the greens. To make the best decision, consider your individual preferences and needs as a golfer, and don’t hesitate to get professionally fitted for the putter that suits your game best. Whether you choose a Ping PLD or a Scotty Cameron, investing in a quality putter can be a game-changer for your golfing experience.
Grace Kaufman, our Creative Director and a Golf Course Design Specialist, brings a touch of creativity and visual flair to The Golf Mine. With a keen eye for design and a deep understanding of course layout, she ensures that our content not only informs but also engages and inspires. Grace's innovative approach, combined with her specialization in golf course design, enhances the overall experience for our readers, making our blog more than just words on a screen.