Callaway TCB Vs Apex Pro: Which Golf Irons To Choose?

When it comes to choosing the perfect set of players’ irons, golfers are often faced with a difficult decision. The Callaway TCB and the Apex Pro are two exceptional options that have taken the golfing world by storm. 

The main difference between Callaway Apex TCB and Apex Pro irons is that the TCB irons have a classic, tour-inspired, forged 1025 players cavity back design, while Apex Pro irons feature a forged 1025 hollow body construction for players’ distance. Choose Apex TCB for shot-making control and Apex Pro for added distance.

In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating showdown between the Callaway TCB and the Apex Pro, exploring their unique features, design innovations, and the unparalleled performance they offer to golfers seeking the ultimate in playability.

callaway tcb vs apex pro

Callaway Apex TCB vs Apex Pro: Choosing the Right Irons for Your Golf Game

FeatureApex TCBApex Pro
Size and ShapeMore compact head, thin top line, straighter leading edgeSlightly larger head, slim top line, compact blade length
OffsetLess offsetMore offset
ForgivenessSome margin for errorLess forgiving due to thinner, compact design
Sole WidthModerate sole widthNarrow sole width
Sound and FeelBlend of X Forged CB and Apex ironsSome golfers report 7 iron and longer clubs feel and sound “horrible”
Launch and SpinLower launch, more spinSlightly higher launch and spin
LoftWeaker lofts compared to game improvement ironsBlade-like lofts
TechnologyBack weighting system for precise feel and controlAI Flash Face Cup for increased ball speeds and forgiveness
Aesthetic AppealClassic look with straightener leading edge, thin top line, smooth hosel transitionThinner and smaller appearance at address, less offset, compact blade length

Size and Shape

One of the main differences between the Callaway Apex TCB and Apex Pro irons is the size and shape of the clubheads. 

The Apex TCB has a more compact head, thinner top line, and straighter leading edge, as preferred by Callaway’s Tour players. 

In contrast, the Apex Pro has a slightly larger head, with a slim top line and compact blade length. 

This distinction in size and shape can affect your confidence and ability to shape shots while playing.

Offset

The Apex TCB irons have less offset than the Apex Pro, which is designed to provide a more blade-like appearance and performance. 

Less offset typically caters to better players, who prefer the ability to work the ball and control their shots.

Forgiveness

The Callaway Apex Pro irons are less forgiving than the standard Apex irons due to their thinner and more compact design. 

However, the Apex Pro’s tungsten weighting system does help to increase forgiveness somewhat. 

The Apex TCB irons are designed for low single-digit handicappers and are built with a focus on shot-making and control, but still offer some margin for error.

Sole Width

The sole width of the Apex Pro 21 irons is described as “narrow” by Callaway, while the standard Apex 21 irons have a “moderate” sole width. 

This difference can affect turf interaction and playability, with narrower soles often preferred by better players who value precision and shot-making control.

Sound and Feel

The sound and feel of the Apex TCB irons are reported to be a blend of the X Forged CB and Apex irons. 

On the other hand, some golfers have mentioned that the 7 iron and longer clubs in the Apex Pro 21 set feel and sound “horrible”. 

This difference in sound and feel may be important to you, as it can influence your overall enjoyment and confidence with the clubs.

Launch and Spin

The Apex TCB irons are designed to launch lower and generate more spin than the X-Forged CB ’21 irons. 

This difference may appeal to better players who want to optimize their ball flight and control their trajectory. 

The Apex Pro irons, on the other hand, may have a slightly higher launch and spin profile, which can affect shot performance and workability.

Loft

The lofts of the Apex TCB irons are weaker compared to those of game improvement irons, as they are designed for better players who prioritize control over distance. 

For instance, the 4-iron loft for the TCB set is 23 degrees, the 7 iron is 34 degrees, and the pitching wedge is 46 degrees. 

The Apex Pro irons also feature blade-like lofts, but the exact loft specifications may vary slightly between the two models.

Technology

The Apex Pro irons incorporate an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Flash Face Cup, designed to increase ball speeds and forgiveness in a hollow-bodied forged 1025 mild carbon steel chassis. 

This technology can help improve distance and consistency in your shots. 

The Apex TCB irons, on the other hand, feature Callaway’s back weighting system that locks in the center of gravity (CG) and swing weight for a precise feel and control.

Aesthetic Appeal

The Apex TCB irons have a classic look with a straighter leading edge, thin top line, and smooth hosel transition, which was heavily influenced by input from Tour players. 

The Apex Pro irons have a noticeably thinner and smaller appearance at address, with a slimmer top line, less offset, and a compact blade length. 

The visual differences between these two iron sets may influence your preference and confidence while playing.

Both the Callaway Apex TCB and Apex Pro irons are designed with specific features that cater to low-handicap golfers who value control, shot-shaping, and precision. 

While the Apex TCB irons focus on a more compact design, lower launch, and greater spin, the Apex Pro irons incorporate AI technology for increased ball speeds and forgiveness. 

Apex Pro Vs  Callaway TCB Irons: Which One Is Better? 

It is difficult to determine which iron set is universally “better” between the Callaway Apex TCB and Apex Pro, as the choice depends on personal preferences, playing style, and specific performance requirements. 

Both iron sets are designed for low-handicap golfers who prioritize control, shot-shaping, and precision, but they offer slightly different features and characteristics.

The Apex TCB irons are focused on a more compact design, lower launch, and greater spin, while the Apex Pro irons incorporate AI technology for increased ball speeds and forgiveness.

To determine which iron set is better for you, consider trying both sets during a club fitting session or a demo day at your local golf course or retailer. 

This will give you hands-on experience with each iron set, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and performance goals.