Golf Irons
TaylorMade SIM2 Max vs P790: Which Irons Should You Buy in 2026?
SIM2 Max and P790 sit in different parts of TaylorMade's iron lineup. SIM2 Max is the more forgiving, larger game-improvement iron. The 2025 P790 is the more compact players-distance iron for golfers who want speed in a cleaner shape.
Main differences
| Category | SIM2 Max | P790 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Iron type | Game-improvement distance iron | Players-distance iron |
| Forgiveness | Higher | Mid-high by TaylorMade's current comparison scale |
| 7-iron loft | 28.5 degrees | 30 degrees |
| Head profile | Larger, more confidence-inspiring | More compact, cleaner players-distance look |
| CTA | Check SIM2 Max price | View P790 2025 |
This comparison uses the 2025 TaylorMade P790 generation.
SIM2 Max vs P790 specs
TaylorMade's published spec charts show why these irons feel different in the bag. SIM2 Max is stronger lofted in the mid irons and has more offset. P790 2025 uses a more compact players-distance setup with slightly weaker lofts in key scoring clubs.
| Club | SIM2 Max loft | SIM2 Max offset | P790 2025 loft |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 iron | 21.5 degrees | 5.2 mm | 23 degrees |
| 6 iron | 25 degrees | 4.7 mm | 26.5 degrees |
| 7 iron | 28.5 degrees | 4.2 mm | 30 degrees |
| 8 iron | 32.5 degrees | 3.5 mm | 34 degrees |
| PW | 43.5 degrees | 2.6 mm | 44 degrees |
| AW | 49 degrees | 2.0 mm | 49 degrees |
Forgiveness
SIM2 Max is the more forgiving iron. TaylorMade built it around Cap Back Design, a Thru-Slot Speed Pocket, low center of gravity, and a larger game-improvement profile. That makes it the more logical option for golfers who want help on thin strikes, toe misses, and launch.
P790 2025 still has meaningful forgiveness for its category, but it is not trying to be the highest-MOI iron in the lineup. It suits players who can strike the ball reasonably well and want distance without moving into a large head shape.
Distance and lofts
SIM2 Max uses stronger lofts in the long and mid irons. That can create easy ball speed and strong distance, especially for players who need help launching the ball. P790 2025 is still a long players-distance iron, but its 7-iron loft is 30 degrees versus 28.5 degrees in SIM2 Max.
Do not compare distance by club number alone. Check launch, peak height, carry gaps, and wedge spacing. A stronger 7-iron is only helpful if it flies high enough and stops predictably.
Head shape and offset
SIM2 Max has the larger, more reassuring profile. Its offset is visible and useful for players who want help squaring the face. P790 2025 is cleaner behind the ball, with a more premium players-distance shape and less visual bulk.
If you dislike seeing offset or a larger topline, P790 is probably the more comfortable club at address. If those visual cues give you confidence, SIM2 Max is the easier fit.
Who is SIM2 Max for?
SIM2 Max fits golfers who want distance and forgiveness before compact looks. It is especially relevant in 2026 because it often appears on the used or previous-generation market at more attractive pricing than current new releases.
- You want a larger, confidence-inspiring iron head.
- You need launch and speed help in the mid and long irons.
- You want strong used-market value.
- You are less concerned with shaping shots on command.
Read our TaylorMade SIM2 Max irons review for the full research-based breakdown.
Who is P790 for?
P790 2025 fits players who want a more compact players-distance iron but do not want to give up speed technology. It is better for golfers who strike the ball consistently enough to benefit from a slimmer profile and more neutral look.
- You want a cleaner shape than SIM2 Max.
- You still want modern distance from a players-distance iron.
- You prefer less visual offset and a more premium address look.
- You are willing to trade some forgiveness for control and aesthetics.
Used value in 2026
SIM2 Max has the stronger used-market angle. It is an older model with a clear value story: modern TaylorMade distance and forgiveness without paying current-model pricing. P790 2025 is newer, so its pricing is more likely to behave like a premium current-generation iron.
If budget is a major factor, compare the actual set composition, shaft, lie, condition, and return policy. A well-fit used SIM2 Max set can make more sense than a newer P790 set that does not match your launch window.
Buy SIM2 Max if...
- You want the more forgiving iron.
- You prefer a larger head and more help launching the ball.
- You are shopping previous-generation or used equipment for value.
- You want distance without needing a compact players shape.
Buy P790 if...
- You want a smaller players-distance profile.
- You strike it well enough that maximum forgiveness is not the top priority.
- You prefer the 2025 P790 look, loft structure, and current-generation positioning.
- You are comfortable paying more for a more compact premium iron.
Verdict
Choose SIM2 Max if forgiveness, launch help, and used value matter most. Choose P790 2025 if you want a cleaner players-distance profile and are willing to trade some help for a more compact look. For most golfers choosing between the two, SIM2 Max is the safer performance fit; P790 is the more refined fit for stronger ball-strikers.