The TaylorMade P790 is arguably the most popular player's distance iron ever made. It's been a benchmark for golfers who want speed, forgiveness, and a clean forged look without committing to a blade.
But with the release of the 2025 P790, many golfers are asking the same question:
Is there enough difference to justify upgrading from the 2023 model — or is buying a used 2023 P790 the smarter play?
Let's break it down.
The Look: Subtle, but Noticeably More "Pro"
2025 P790
The first thing you'll notice with the 2025 model is the refinement.
- New polished satin finish (especially striking on the 2025 P790 Black irons)
- Slightly thinner topline
- More compact shape at address
- Cleaner transition from hosel to blade
At address, the 2025 version looks more like a tour iron than any previous P790.
2023 P790
Still a great-looking iron, but:
- Matte finish feels a little more "industrial"
- Slightly thicker topline
- Marginally larger profile
For most golfers, the difference is visual rather than performance-based — but purists will notice it immediately.
The Tech: Where the Real Upgrade Lives
This is where TaylorMade focused their efforts.
2025 P790 Technology
- New 4340M forged face, which is approximately 20% stronger
- Allows the face to flex more efficiently
- 24% larger sweet spot compared to the 2023 model
- Improved speed retention on toe and heel strikes
In short: mishits travel farther and straighter.
2023 P790 Technology
- Still uses proven forged face tech
- Excellent ball speed and distance
- Slightly smaller effective hitting area
This is why TaylorMade P790 reviews for both generations remain extremely strong — the foundation hasn't changed, just refined.
Performance on Course
Distance
- 2025: Slightly more consistent distance across the face
- 2023: Plenty long, but mishits lose a touch more speed
Forgiveness
- 2025 is the most forgiving P790 ever made
- 2023 is still very forgiving compared to traditional forged irons
Feel
- Both feel excellent
- 2025 feels marginally more solid on off-centre strikes
So… Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Choose the 2025 P790 if:
- You want the most forgiving version of the P790 ever released
- You're buying new anyway
- You care about refined shaping and the latest face tech
- You're interested in the 2025 P790 Black irons aesthetic
Choose the 2023 P790 if:
- You want maximum value for money
- You're happy buying used or clearance
- You want 90–95% of the performance at a significantly lower price
- You're upgrading from older irons (pre-2020)
👉 One of the smartest ways to get this performance today is with a used 2023 P790 — like this one in excellent condition:
➡️ TaylorMade P790 2023 5-S / 30° (Used)
https://www.risingsunclubs.com.au/products/taylormade-p790-2023-5s-30-5-1?variant=42679107584118
This kind of deal represents outstanding performance per dollar when compared to buying new.
Final Verdict
If you want the absolute best P790 TaylorMade has ever made, the 2025 model delivers — more forgiveness, a cleaner look, and improved consistency.
But if you're a smart buyer focused on performance-per-dollar, the 2023 P790 remains one of the strongest iron purchases you can make today, especially in excellent used condition.
Either way, you're getting one of the most trusted iron designs in modern golf.
Looking for More Iron Options?
Explore our full range of iron sets and find your next game-changer:
👉 Iron Sets Collection