If you’re thinking about taking up golf as a hobby, one of the first decisions you’ll be faced with is whether to try your hand at the traditional or the mini version. Though in both, you’ll be abiding by the same overall rules and exercising similar techniques; there are still plenty of differences between the two that can (and should) color your decision. So, how do golf and mini golf compare, and more importantly, which one would be better suited to you?
The main difference between golf and mini golf is course size. A traditional golf course usually covers more than 100 acres of land (44.5 hectares), while the mini variation rarely stretches for more than two acres (0.8 hectares). Other differences include layout, design, playing time, and attire.
To learn more about the differences between these two types of golf, read on as I take you through a comparison table highlighting some of their most distinct features. Below, I’ll also cover each option’s advantages and drawbacks so that you’re better equipped to make an informed decision on which would be best suited to you. Let’s begin!
Mini Golf vs. Golf: Comparison Table
| Mini Golf | Golf | |
| Course Size | 0.5 – 1 acre (0.2 – 0.4 hectares) | 100+ acres (40.5+ hectares) |
| Layout | Smaller holes with less distance between them | Bigger holes with more distance between them |
| Design | Themed, with plenty of obstacles | Natural, with fewer man-made obstacles |
| Play Time | 3 to 4 hours | Up to 45 minutes |
| Equipment | A putter and a golf ball | 10+ clubs and balls |
| Attire | Casual | Formal |
| Accessibility | More affordable and convenient | More expensive and challenging to practice |
| Number of Players | 1-4 | 1-6 |
Mini Golf
Mini golf can (simplistically) be described as a smaller, less-taxing version of the real thing. However, though this version is often less intimidating to take on, don’t let its premise fool you – it’s still a challenging sport that requires 100% of your skill and effort if you want to succeed.
Even if you’re already a traditional golf player, you’ll quickly notice that there’s a plethora of new, unexpected challenges that come with the mini version, so don’t write it off just yet.
Pros
- Less time-consuming
- More affordable
- Lax dress code
- Less intimidating
- Easier to practice
Cons
- Not as mentally or physically stimulating as traditional golf
- Not the best choice for advanced players
- More luck-based than traditional golf
Golf
I’m not going to get into too many specifics when it comes to traditional golf, as chances are you’re already familiar with the premise of the game. I’ll say, however, that it comes with a whole different set of advantages and drawbacks compared to its mini counterpart. Here are some of them:
Pros
- Very physically and mentally stimulating
- Very skill-based; your hard work pays off
- Great for serious players looking to put their all into the game
- Well-respected sport
Cons
- Very difficult to master
- Not remotely as accessible as mini golf, expensive
- Strict dress code
Conclusion
Both traditional and mini golf are excellent pastimes that can be as fun as they’re mentally and physically stimulating. So, if you’re thinking about taking on either of them, consider this as your sign to take that new step.
However, before you do so, make sure to keep the information outlined in this guide in mind, as the differences between these two in terms of difficulty level, accessibility, playing time, and so on can make or break your dedication to your new hobby.