While you may think putting is personal, performance is what gets the ball in the hole. For our 2025 Most Wanted Putter test, we evaluated more than 60 blade and mallet models using an all-new scoring system powered by
PuttView . This advanced technology tracks both made putts and proximity to the hole across multiple distances, allowing us to calculate a
PuttView Handicap for each putter. The PuttView Handicap is a data-backed way to show how much a given putter helps (or hurts) your scoring. Whether you struggle from a few feet or across the green, this year’s results will help you find the putter that fits your game best.
Best overall mallet putter: Wilson Infinite Buckingham
Wilson Infinite Buckingham topped our 2025 test thanks to elite performance on short and medium putts where strokes are gained and lost. While its looks and sound didn’t win over every tester, the ball kept finding the bottom of the cup. It was second-best at medium range where most putters separate themselves. It belongs on your list if you want results at a very fair price. ✅ You want the best mallet putter based on performance, not brand hype. ✅ You miss more putts in the five- to 15-foot range than anywhere else. ❌ You prioritize sound, feel and looks over performance. ❌ You can’t get past the lower subjective scores.
Best mallet runner-up: Runner Mallet
Runner Golf is no longer flying under the radar after finishing second in both blade and mallet categories.
The Runner Mallet proved itself consistently at every range. It was neck-and-neck with Wilson for top honors and was especially strong on short to mid-range putts. Don’t let the unknown name fool you; this putter flat-out performs. ✅ You want all-around consistency from a new name in putters. ✅ Feel matters and you want a soft, responsive putter. ❌ You’re hesitant to buy from a newer or lesser-known brand.
Third-best mallet putter: PING Scottsdale Prime Tyne 4
The PING Scottsdale Prime Tyne 4 lands in third place. Its performance was best on medium and long putts. It was also one of the best-rated mallets for feel, sound and visual appeal. This putter is a strong choice for players who need better distance control, especially if a heel-shafted design suits your stroke. ✅ You want to improve lag putting from 10 to 20 feet and beyond. ✅ You value sound, feel and address look in your putter. ❌ You don’t like heel-shafted or strong arc putters.
Top mallet putters by distance
Performance at different distances varies — a putter that’s near perfect from five feet may not shine at 20 feet. Here are the standout mallet putters at each range.
Best overall blade putter: Tommy Armour Impact No. 2
Tommy Armour Impact No. 2 claims the top spot for blade putters in 2025. Its standout performance on medium putts is what separates it from the pack. If your goal is to become a better putter in 2025, you’ll want something that’s strong on the medium-length putts. At just $149.99, it also offers one of the best price-to-performance ratios in the entire test. ✅ You want top-tier performance on mid-range putts. ✅ You’re looking for a value blade that performs like a premium one. ❌ You prefer something with a softer feel or more refined aesthetics.
Best blade putter runner-up: Runner Golf Blade
Runner Golf continues to make noise with another second-place finish.
The Runner Blade putter performs exceptionally well from short range and holds its own on longer putts. Its modular design allows for over 200 configurations, from weights to faceplates, but even the stock version performs. If you want a new golf toy to tinker with, this is one that could actually improve your game. ✅ You want short-range performance with elite customization options. ✅ You like to personalize your setup with weights, grips and/or alignment aids. ❌ You value traditional looks and brand prestige over performance.
Third-best blade putter: Cleveland HB Soft 2 Black Model 1
The Cleveland HB Soft 2 Black Model 1 ranks third overall and dominates from longer distance. It’s one of the best-performing blade putters from both medium and long range. At $199–$249 (depending on shaft option), it’s priced well below many of its competitors. If your struggles are outside 10 feet, this is a blade that can change your game. ✅ You want elite performance on mid- and long-range putts. ✅ You want a reasonably priced blade that doesn’t sacrifice feel. ❌ You’re skeptical of Cleveland putters.
Top blade putters by distance
Final thoughts