Choosing the right golf equipment is an essential way to ensure that you perform your best on the course, but choosing the right driver can be a challenge. Two common Callaway drivers include the Big Bertha Alpha 815 and the Big Bertha Alpha 816.
The Callaway 815 and 816 drivers are both high-quality and provide more consistency and stability. However, the Callaway 816 offers more adjustability options and is, therefore, a better driver for most golfers than the 815.
In this article, I’ll discuss the Callaway 815 and Callaway 816 drivers in great detail so you can make an informed decision between the two.
Are the Callaway 815 and the Callaway 816 the Same?
The Callaway 815 and the Callaway 816 are extremely similar but not exactly the same. The following table outlines some important specifications:
| Feature | Callaway 815 | Callaway 816 |
| Hand Availability | Left, Right | Left, Right |
| Left-Handed Lofts | 9, 10.5, 12 degrees | 9, 10.5 degrees |
| Right-Handed Lofts | 9, 10.5, 12 degrees | 9, 10.5 degrees |
| Head Volume | 460cc | 460cc |
| Club Length | 45.5 inches (115.6 cm) | 45.5 inches (115.6 cm) |
| Shaft Weight | 53 grams (1.9 oz) | 60 grams (2 oz) |
| Shaft Flex | Regular, Stiff | Regular, Stiff, Extra Stiff |
As you can see, these drivers are extremely similar, though the 816 is heavier and comes in an extra flex category.
The Big Bertha 815 driver came first, and it has a lowered center of gravity and encouraged more ball speed with its breakthrough R-Moto multi-material construction. This construction makes the driver’s face lighter and more stable, which allows golfers to hit the ball further.
Another notable feature of this driver is its adjustability. You can change the Gravity Core, which completely changes the club’s feel, but the adjustability doesn’t end there. The club also features interchangeable weights on the heel and toe, which can also improve your overall performance.
The Callaway 815 driver provides forgiveness, low spin, distance, and adjustability.
The Big Bertha 816 model is extremely similar. It has Gravity Core technology and dual distance chambers, which helps golfers adjust their spin rates and achieve more consistency. The most significant difference between the 815 and the 816 is that the 816 has dual distance chambers, which the 815 doesn’t.
These additional chambers allow golfers to choose from four positions: up, down, draw, and neutral. The Callaway 815 only has two positions: up and down. Adjusting the driver completely changes the feel of it, so almost anyone can find a setting with the 816 that feels good for them. Furthermore, adjusting the Gravity Core has a big influence on the ball’s trajectory.
Callaway 815 and Callaway 816: Which Is Better?
Both the Callaway 815 and 816 are great drivers, but ultimately, the dual chambers and increased adjustability on the Callaway 816 make it a better fit for most golfers. Because you can change the center of gravity and customize the feel so completely, the Big Bertha 816 can be the right driver for almost anyone. Therefore, if you have to choose between the two, I recommend going with the Callaway 816 over the 815.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right driver can make a big difference in how a golfer performs on the course. Callaway makes great drivers, and two of their options are the Big Bertha 815 and the 816. The 816 is the better option of the two because it offers more adjustability and customization options.