You won’t be surprised to hear that golf balls don’t come in many shapes and sizes. In fact, golf balls are always small and round!
However not all golf balls are exactly the same; not even their size.
To simplify things for you, I have created this handy guide to help explain everything you need to know about the size of a golf ball.
Quick Tip: Why Yellow Golf Balls are Better than White Golf Balls
What is the Average Size of a Golf Ball
The size of an official golf ball can be no smaller than (1.68 inches) in diameter. This equals to (4.268 cm) or (42.68 mm). The circumference of a golf ball is (5.277 inches) / (13.405 cm) / (134.058 mm). The average width and height of a golf ball is (43 mm).
Are All Golf Balls the Same Size
Golf balls are certainly not all created equally. In fact you’ll find some that are bigger than the standard 1.68 inch size.
When Did the Official Golf Ball Size Change
Going back decades ago, there use to be 2 official golf ball sizes. There was the British ball (also known as the European golf ball), and the American ball.
The British golf governing body (R&A) was set on having a diameter of 1.62 inches.
However there was a problem!
The American golf governing body (USGA) was using golf balls of a different size to the British. A diameter of 1.68 was the preferred option for the USA leagues. Both parties wanted the other one to change the size of their golf balls.
Both the British and the Americans would battle back and forth for years. It took until 1990 for both parties to come to their senses and agree on one size. This is how 1.68 inches became the new (minimum) standard size of the golf ball.
However If you were to measure the size of your own golf ball, there’s a good chance it’ll be larger than 1.68. This is because 1.68” is only the minimum size a golf ball must be.
Companies are actually free to design larger golf balls if they wish to. There is only one other restriction companies must adhere to. The golf ball used for professional tournaments cannot weight any heavier than 1.62 oz (45.93 grams).
How Wide is a Golf Ball
The average width of a golf ball is 16.92 inches | (4.3cm) | (43 mm).
This size was chosen after many years of companies testing golf ball trajectory. Because golfers want to hit the ball as long as possible and with optimal spin, a small circular shape is a must.
As a golf ball is perfectly round, the width and the height are both equal in size.
Average Golf Ball Circumference
The average circumference of a golf ball measures 5.277 (inches) | 13.405 (cm) | 134.058 (mm).
Golf Ball Volume
To measure the volume of a golf ball we take the radius of 0.83 inches, and then calculate this value based on sphere volume. We get an answer of 2.482 (cu in) | 40.677 (cm3).
Golf Ball Size in cm
The size of a golf ball in centimetres (cm) is the following:
- Diameter: 268 cm
- Circumference: 405 cm
- Radius:133 cm
- Volume: 677 cm3
- Height: 3 cm
- Width: 3 cm
Golf Ball Size in mm
The size of a golf ball in millimeters (mm) is the following:
- Diameter: 4,268 mm
- Circumference: 13,405 mm
- Radius: 2,133 mm
- Volume: 40,677 mm³
- Height: 43 mm
- Width: 43 mm
Golf Ball Size in Inches
The size of a golf ball in inches (“) is the following:
- Diameter: 68”
- Circumference: 27”
- Radius:84”
- Volume: 48 cu in
- Height: 69”
- Width: 69”
Size of a Golf Ball Hole (golf cup)
The size of a golf ball hole (golf cup) measures at 4 ¼ inches in diameter. This is the official size that the United States Golf Association (USGA) regularities has deemed appropriate.
Having a hole too big would make putting too easy. Alternately, having a hole too small would make sinking puts a rare sight.
A size of 4.25 inches for a cup is best as it provides a challenging opening for a golf putt.
The Ball to Cup Ratio
There is a measurement golfer’s use called the ball to cup ratio. This refers to the number of golf balls that can fit across a hole.
As the width of a hole is 4.25” wide and a golf ball is only 1.68”, this means you can 2 golf balls inside a golf hole.
Today’s professional courses are all designed using the same sized holes. Designers use a tool called a hole cutter to cut out soil from the ground.
The hole cutter helps create a clean edge around the perimeter of the hole. A plastic cup insert is then added to prevent surrounding sandy soil from caving in.
Golf ball Size Vs Ping Pong Ball
Although golf balls are not the same size as ping pong balls, the difference is marginal. The diameter of a golf ball is 42.68mm, while a standard ping pong ball measures at 40mm. This makes a golf ball 6.28% larger than a ping pong ball.
If you own an older ping pong ball, it may measure at 38mm instead. This is because the size of ping pong balls has increased in recent years. J. Jacques invented the first ever ping pong ball during the late 1800’s. His ball went on to be a standard size of 38mm.
The ball would remain at 38mm all the way until the year 2000 when the diameter was increased to 40mm.
Size of Golf Ball Dimples
A standard golf ball contains an average of 336 dimples. These dimples have an average depth of 0.01 inches.
However, not all balls contain the same number of dimples. You’ll find most golf balls fall in the range of 250 to 500 dimples.
Dimples are a necessary part of the design of a golf ball as they greatly affect the amount of lift and drag on golf ball’s trajectory. Over the years, dimples continue to change and evolve. The shape, depth, and number of dimples will vary between golf balls.
However as there are no official standards placed on the shape or depth, it’s the amount of dimples that is the most important measurement.
Generally speaking, the more dimples on a ball, the higher it will fly in the air. This may sound like a good thing, but it does come at a cost.
The higher a ball launches into the air, the shorter distance it will travel. This is why 336 dimples are commonly seen, as this amount creates an ideal balance between shot distance and height.
How Many Golf Balls Fit in a Cubic Foot
One cubic foot equals 1728 cubic inches, while a golf balls volume is 2.482 cubic inches. Therefore a total of 696 golf balls will fit inside 1 cubic foot.
How Much does a Golf Ball Weigh
An average golf balls weighs 1.620 ounces (45.93 g). This is the maximum weight a golf ball is allowed to be use for tournament play.
This is why most golf balls you’ll find for weight around 46 grams. This weight has been chosen as an optimal weight that’s neither too light nor heavy.
Do all Golf Balls Weigh the Same
I grabbed a few of my golf balls and weighed them individually. Each ball weighs around the same, plus or minus a fraction of a gram. I saw no difference between weighing expensive balls like the Pro-V1, Titleist and ChromeSoft, versus the cheaper quality balls.
Weight of a Golf Ball in Grams
An average golf ball weighs 45.93 grams.
Weight of a Golf Ball in Ounces
An average golf ball weighs 1.62 ounces.
Weight of a Golf Ball in Pounds
An average golf ball weighs 0.101 pounds.
Weight of a Golf Ball in Kilograms
An average golf ball weighs 0.0459 kilograms.
Golf ball Size Regulations
Golf balls have evolved significantly over the years, to become very sophisticated balls of plastic and rubber.
However, greater advancements in design have resulted in stricter regulatory restrictions.
When looking at both the PGA and USGA golf ball regulations, the requirements are pretty much identical:
(You can view the official USGA golf ball regulations here)
- The shape of the golf ball must not be asymmetrical.
- The weight of the golf ball must not exceed 1.620 ounces (45.93 grams).
- The size of the golf ball must be a minimum of 1.680 inches (42.67 mm).
Best Small Golf Balls
While most players tend to use regular sized balls, there are those who prefer a golf ball on the smaller size. Small golf balls are easier to hit, making them more beginner friendly.
Small golf balls are quite rare to find, but it’s not impossible.
I had a chance to try out the Oncore AVANT golf ball which certainly appear smaller than the standard 1.68” size.
While these balls wouldn’t pass on a pro tournament, I found them extremely enjoyable to use! Their low 65 compression level gave this ball a very soft feel, which I think any novice would prefer.
These balls hit well for those who fall in the low to mid range swing speed. While I think everyone will enjoy them, children, females and seniors would benefit most of all.
Best Large Golf Balls
If size does matter to you, then you’ll want to pick up pack of Callaway Supersoft Magna golf balls.
The Supersoft Manga balls are 3% larger than standard balls! These pearly whites are 1.732 inches in diameter.
The larger size ball makes hitting the ball a breeze for beginners and kids.
Callaway did an excellent job designing these ultra low compression balls. They still weigh the standard 46 grams, but don’t expect them to perform like a normal ball.
The manga’s larger size produces less spin on the ball and will also result in shorter distances.
Also making solid contact will result in a flat shot that should travel in a straight direction.
While these balls are not for the serious golfer, Callaway do a great job in pleasing their target market.
If you want to have some fun on the green, you can take a heavy swing with these balls and hit the ball every time!
What Size Golf Ball Do I Need
Golf balls come in all types of sizes, firmness and compression values. Choosing the best ball for you can be confusing if you don’t know what to look for.
As I use to be in the same situation, I now have a better understanding of choosing the right ball.
How To Choose The Best Golf Ball Size
| Ball Size: | Compression: | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
| 1.58" (small) | Low | Beginners, Females, Seniors |
| 1.64" (regular) | Mid, High | Intermediate, Professionals |
| 1.73" (large) | Low | Beginner, Seniors |
Beginner Level:
If you’re new to the game of golf, there’s nothing shameful in choosing a ball designed for beginners. These balls can help a newbie feel confident and showcase exactly what millions of people love about golf.
Balls designed for beginners tend to travel at shorter distances, but their lower compression allows for a more accurate shot.
If you’re swing speed is 85mph or lower, you should choose a low compression ball. This type of ball will still travel at a reasonable distance, while allowing for a more controlled flight.
If you’re really struggling to hit the sweet spot, you can always look for a larger sized golf ball like the Callaway Supersoft Manga.
Recommended Low Compression Balls:
- Titleist DT Trusoft
- Top-Flite D2+ Feel
- TaylorMade Noodle Easy Distance
- Taylormade Distance +
- Vice Pro Plus Golf Ball
- Wilson Staff DUO
Intermediate Level:
If you’ve been playing golf for quite some time, your options for choosing balls are endless.
The right ball for you will depend on how fast you swing at the ball.
For the average golfer, I always recommend a mid-compression ball. If you’re unsure which ball to choose, this type of ball is most likely to cater to your playing style.
If you swing between 86mph and to 105mph, this places your swing speed within the mean. A mid compression ball should be ideal for you.
Recommended Mid Compression Balls:
- Titleist ProV1
- TaylorMade Burner
- Pinnacle Rush
- Nike One Vapor Speed
- Bridgestone TOUR B X
- Callaway Chrome Soft