In the ever-evolving landscape of golf equipment, few clubs have experienced such a fascinating resurgence as the mini driver. Sitting somewhere between a compact driver and an oversized fairway wood, these versatile alternatives have seen their count of available options already quintuple in 2025 (although, admittedly, that’s not saying much).
Whether you’re looking for more accuracy off the tee, have no particular use for a 3-wood or are just curious about this growing category, this comparison guide will help you navigate the world of mini drivers with the ease of a tap-in putt.
What exactly is a mini driver?
A mini driver is a bit of a cross between a conventional driver and a fairway wood. Small driver? Big fairway? I suppose either description is appropriate depending on the specific model in question.
The hook is that, for many (if not most), minis will prove more accurate than a driver and longer (and also likely more accurate) than a fairway wood. While you’re almost certainly going to give up some distance stepping down from a full-sized driver, the likelihood is you’ll be better positioned to navigate shorter par-4s and any situation where the white stakes are uncomfortably close to the fairway.
And while, by the numbers, a full-sized driver is going to offer higher MOI, a mini will exceed the MOI numbers of a fairway wood and in terms of practical forgiveness (straighter shots, tighter dispersion), the mini might be the best option of the three.












