Callaway Elyte Mini Driver on course review
02 Apr 2025
by Pete Wlodkowski of AmateurGolf.com
see also: Equipment Reviews
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In a game increasingly driven by power and speed, the new Callaway Elyte Mini Driver is proving that precision and playability still have a place—especially when they’re backed by tour-level technology. In this AmateurGolf.com exclusive, Blaire McKeithen took the new mini-driver for a full test session and delivered insights on its performance from both the tee and the turf.
And if there was any doubt about whether this club could compete with modern drivers or premium fairway woods, Blaire put those to rest early with a bold declaration:
“That’s one of the best shots I think I’ve ever hit on camera.”
What Is the Elyte Mini—and Why Should You Care?
The Elyte Mini Driver is more than just a nod to retro club designs. It’s a full-blown performance tool for players who want maximum control off the tee, easy launch conditions, and versatility off the deck. At 340cc and 43.75 inches in length, it sits between a traditional driver and a 3-wood—but with cutting-edge Callaway tech that makes it stand out in a crowded top-of-the-bag segment.
Key Performance Observations from the Course:
Ball speed: 168–170+ mph with multiple shots over 282 yards carry
Spin: Ranged from 2600 to 4200 RPM depending on strike and turf
Launch: Easy to elevate even with the compact head, especially off a tee
Forgiveness: Exceptional; Blaire noted repeated accuracy even with a shaft not optimized for his swing
Versatility: Easily playable from the fairway with high launch and controlled spin
Blaire’s comparison to his gamer 3-wood was eye-opening. Though both clubs sometimes produced similar carry numbers, the Elyte Mini consistently gave him more flexibility and more "shot-shaping potential," especially when trying to hit a low-spin bomb or a high-spinning cut.
In windy or tight driving conditions, the mini driver shined. Whether teed low for a bullet fade or high for max carry, Blaire found multiple shot shapes—and with spin numbers that stayed consistent, regardless of launch strategy.
“You get finesse from the fairway, bombs off the tee, and serious forgiveness,” Blaire said.
Technology Breakdown: The Elyte Difference
What separates this mini driver from prior efforts is how much tech Callaway has packed into a compact frame:
Top-of-the-Bag Versatility
More forgiving and easier to launch than a fairway wood
Draw, fade, and neutral weighting via a repositionable sole weight
Adjustable hosel for fine-tuning loft and face angle
New Elyte Shape for More Speed
Sleeker, more aerodynamic head promotes faster swing speeds
Shape and CG placement tuned for forgiveness and ideal launch
Thermoforged Carbon Crown
Aerospace-grade material saves weight for optimal CG positioning
Contributes to improved spin control and enhanced feel
Ai10x Face Design
Callaway’s most advanced AI-designed face yet
Features 10x more control points than prior models
Promotes faster ball speeds, tighter dispersion, and consistent launch across the face
SPECS AT A GLANCE
Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 or Winn Dri-Tac 2.0 (women's)
Final Thoughts: The Mini Grows UpThe Callaway Elyte Mini Driver is no gimmick. It’s a modern, multi-dimensional club that serves as both a strategic driving option and a versatile fairway tool—especially for players looking to maintain distance without sacrificing control.
Whether you’re a competitive amateur, a mid-handicapper who struggles with consistency off the tee, or a gear junkie looking to optimize your setup, this mini driver deserves serious consideration.
“It’s very hard to hit offline,” Blaire concluded. “Even with a shaft that’s not built for me, I’m getting driver-level performance in a club that feels easier to control.”
And that, for many golfers, is the true definition of Elyte.