Milled vs Insert Putters: Pros, Cons, and Expert Insights

Choosing the right putter can have a surprising impact on your performance and overall enjoyment of the game. Among the most significant decisions golfers face is the choice between milled putters and insert putters. Both styles offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences, styles, and budgets.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these putters and provide guidance on finding the best match for your game.

Why the Right Putter Matters

The putter is arguably the most used club in your bag, so selecting one that feels right can make a meaningful difference in consistency and confidence on the green.

Milled putters and insert putters each have their devoted followings, with distinct advantages. Understanding what makes each type unique will help you decide which style might best suit your preferences and play style.

Table of Contents

• Milled Putters
• Insert Putters
• Comparing Milled vs Insert Putters
• Choosing the Right Putter for Your Game
• Faqs
• Final Thoughts

Milled Putters

Milled putters are crafted from a single, solid block of metal using precise CNC (computer numerical control) machining. This process produces a face that is perfectly flat, ensuring reliable, solid feedback when putting

Additionally, milled putters often use high-quality metals like stainless steel or bronze, which contributes to their durability and long-lasting appeal.

Pros and Cons of Milled Putters

Milled putters are known for their durability, craftsmanship, and consistency. The flat face delivers a firm feel and reliable feedback, which advanced players often prefer.

However, these benefits come with a few trade-offs. Milled putters are usually more expensive due to their materials and machining, and the feel can be too firm for golfers who favor a softer, cushioned impact.

Popular Milled Putters

For golfers considering a milled putter, several popular options stand out:

• Scotty Cameron Select: Known for its solid feel and professional look, it’s a premium choice.
• PING Anser Milled: A versatile mid-range option, that combining quality and a slightly softer feel for balance.
• Bettinardi BB Series: Hand-crafted in the USA, this luxury putter features intricate milling and exceptional durability.

Insert Putters

Insert putters are designed with a separate face insert, usually made from softer materials like rubber, polymer, or composite. This design provides a softer, cushioned feel on impact, which many golfers find forgiving and comfortable.

Different insert materials create a variety of feel and sound options, allowing golfers to find one that suits their preference.

Pros and Cons of Insert Putters

Insert putters are favored for their soft, muted feel, which some golfers find easier to control, especially on faster greens. Insert putters are also often more affordable than milled options, as they are made from lighter materials.

However, durability can be an issue, and the feel may vary depending on the type of insert, as softer materials can wear down over time.

Popular Insert Putters

For golfers interested in insert putters, here are some highly regarded choices:

• Odyssey White Hot OG: Known for its smooth, cushioned feel, this model is ideal for those who prefer softer impact.
• TaylorMade Spider X: Famous for stability and forgiveness, this putter has a composite insert offering a balanced, soft touch.
• Wilson Staff Infinite: A budget-friendly choice with a soft-feel insert, perfect for players seeking an affordable, forgiving putter.

Comparing Milled vs Insert Putters

When deciding, it’s helpful to compare milled putters and insert putters across feel, sound, performance, durability, and aesthetics.

Feel and Feedback

Milled putters provide a firm, consistent feel and immediate feedback, while insert putters offer a softer, cushioned impact. Advanced players often prefer milled putters for their reliable response, while beginners or golfers with a lighter stroke may find the forgiving feel of an insert putter better suited.

Sound

Sound plays a significant role in the putting experience. Milled putters produce a sharper, metallic sound, while insert putters offer a muted, cushioned sound. This softer sound can be more comfortable for players who find metallic feedback distracting.

Performance on Different Greens

Both types perform well, though nuances exist. Milled putters generally excel on faster greens where feedback is essential. Insert putters, with their softer feel, can be advantageous on slower greens, offering better control and forgiveness. For instance, insert putters are often more forgiving on slower greens, helping players maintain accuracy without too much roll.

Durability

Milled putters, made from solid metal, are built to last, while insert putters may wear down over time, particularly if the insert is made from softer materials. Inserts can often be replaced, though replacement may affect the original feel.

Aesthetics and Personal Preference

Many golfers are drawn to the polished look of a milled putter, which often has a luxurious appeal. Insert putters, on the other hand, come in various designs, offering a broader range of looks, colors, and shapes to suit personal preferences.

Choosing the Right Putter for Your Game

Choosing a putter ultimately comes down to what feels and performs best for you. Here are some practical tips to help guide your decision:

Assess Your Putting Style

Take time to reflect on your putting habits. Do you prefer a firm, responsive feel, or do you enjoy a softer, more cushioned impact? Knowing your preference can lead you toward a milled or insert putter.

Testing Recommendations

Whenever possible, test both types before purchasing. For example, the Scotty Cameron Select offers a firm feel and high-end craftsmanship, while the Odyssey White Hot OG provides a softer, forgiving touch. Testing these options in person can clarify your preference.

Budget Considerations

Budget can also play a significant role. Options like the Wilson Staff Infinite offer an affordable, soft-feel insert experience, while premium options such as the Bettinardi BB Series provide a luxury milled experience. Setting a budget can help narrow down your choices.

Seeking Professional Fitting

Investing in a professional fitting can be invaluable. A fitting can assess your stroke and help identify the right style for you, whether that means a milled option like the PING Anser Milled or an insert option such as the TaylorMade Spider X.

Faqs

Do milled putters make a difference?

Yes, milled putters can make a significant difference in feel and consistency. Milled faces, crafted from a single metal block, provide firmer, more predictable feedback on impact, making them popular among players seeking precision and durability.

Do pros use putters with inserts?

Yes, many professional golfers use putters with inserts. Notable players like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson have used putters with inserts for a softer feel and improved touch, especially on fast greens. Inserts help reduce vibration and can provide a more controlled, muted response, which some pros find beneficial for maintaining consistency.

Why do some putters have inserts?

Inserts are added to putters to create a softer, more cushioned feel upon impact. This design can increase forgiveness and reduce vibration, appealing to golfers who prefer a muted response over the firm feedback of milled faces.

Do putter inserts wear out?

Yes, putter inserts can wear over time, especially those made from softer materials. Regular use may lead to diminished feel and performance, though some inserts can be replaced to restore the putter’s original feel.

Are milled face putters better?

Milled face putters are often considered better for players who prioritize precision, feedback, and durability. However, the “better” choice depends on personal preference, as insert putters offer different benefits that some golfers prefer.

What is the best face for a putter?

The best face for a putter depends on individual preferences. Milled faces are ideal for those seeking a firm, consistent feel, while insert faces suit golfers who prefer a softer, muted impact. Testing both types can help determine the best fit for your game.

What is the advantage of face-balanced putters?

Face-balanced putters minimize face rotation during the stroke, making them ideal for golfers with a straight-back-and-through putting style. This balance can improve consistency for those with a minimal arc in their stroke.

Can I get my putter face milled?

Yes, some companies offer custom milling services to enhance your putter’s face, improving consistency and feel. Custom milling can add precision to an existing putter, but it’s generally more accessible on metal-faced putters than those with inserts.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to selecting between a milled or insert putter, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each option has unique advantages and can complement different play styles and preferences. Milled putters are known for their firm feel and durability, while insert putters offer a softer touch and greater forgiveness.

Ultimately, the best choice is one that feels comfortable, instills confidence, and meets your specific needs on the green. Visit a local golf shop to try both types of putters in person. Whether you lean toward the classic appeal of a milled putter or the cushioned feedback of an insert putter, finding a putter that feels right can make all the difference in your game.

Also Read:

• Forecaddie vs Caddie: Which One Is Best for You?
• What are X Out Golf Balls? Everything you need to know
• Scramble vs Shamble: What’s the Difference?