The Callaway Epic Flash (2019) is the best value of the three, usually about $155 to $190 used. The Epic Speed, Epic Max and Epic Max LS (2021) are a generation newer, with Callaway's Jailbreak AI Speed Frame, and sell for about $190 to $200 used. Choose Epic Max for forgiveness and slice help, Epic Speed or Max LS for lower spin, and Epic Flash if you want a proven driver for the least money.
Epic Flash vs Epic Speed vs Epic Max at a glance
| Epic Flash | Epic Speed | Epic Max | Epic Max LS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail | Feb 2019 | Feb 2021 | Feb 2021 | Feb 2021 |
| Launch price | $529.99 | $529.99 | $529.99 | $529.99 |
| Key tech | AI-designed Flash Face, Jailbreak bars | Jailbreak AI Speed Frame, AI face | Same, plus 17g sliding weight | Same, plus 13g sliding weight |
| Best for | Most golfers on a budget | Speed and lower spin, slight draw bias | Highest forgiveness, slice correction | Better players, lower spin |
| Lofts | 9, 10.5, 12 | 9, 10.5, 12 | 9, 10.5, 12 | 9, 10.5 |
| GolfRoots used price (Oct 2026) | About $155 to $190 | About $190 (limited stock) | About $190 | About $190 to $200 |
What was new in the Epic Flash?
Callaway says the Epic Flash was the first driver face designed with artificial intelligence. Its engineers used machine learning to run about 15,000 face designs, compared with the 8 to 10 they'd test the traditional way. The face sat on the Jailbreak system from the original 2017 Epic: two titanium bars behind the face that stiffen the body so more energy goes into the ball. A 16g sliding weight lets you tune draw or fade. The Sub Zero version has a 12g sliding weight and a front sole weight for lower spin. For the backstory, read where Callaway's AI face work began.
What changed in the Epic Speed and Epic Max?
In 2021 Callaway redesigned the Jailbreak bars with AI too, calling it the Jailbreak AI Speed Frame, paired with a new AI-designed face. It split the family into three heads:
- Epic Speed: the fastest, lowest-spin head with no sliding weight and a slight draw bias.
- Epic Max: the highest MOI, with a 17g sliding weight that Callaway says gives about 16 yards of shot-shape correction. This is the one for slicers and anyone who wants forgiveness.
- Epic Max LS: neutral and lower spin, with a 13g sliding weight, for better players.
Which Epic driver should you buy used?
- Tightest budget: Epic Flash. It's our best-stocked used Callaway driver and most listings are around $160.
- You slice or want forgiveness: Epic Max.
- You swing fast and spin it too much: Epic Max LS or Epic Flash Sub Zero.
- You want something newer: step up to the Mavrik (2020) or Paradym (2023). See Paradym vs Paradym Ai Smoke.
Shop used Epic Flash drivers or all used Callaway drivers. Looking at other budget options too? Read the best used drivers under $200.
FAQ
Is the Epic Flash still a good driver?
Yes. It was one of the top drivers of 2019, and conforming drivers since then all face the same face-speed limits. Newer heads mostly add forgiveness and adjustability.
Is the Epic Max more forgiving than the Epic Speed?
Yes. The Epic Max has the highest MOI in the 2021 family and a sliding weight for slice correction.
What's the difference between Epic Max and Epic Max LS?
Max LS is lower spin and more neutral, with a smaller sliding weight, for faster, more consistent swingers.
Can I test an Epic driver before buying?
Yes. Hit drivers on the simulator at our Farmers Branch shop, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
