Callaway Strata Plus 14-Piece Set vs Aspire XD1 Men's Complete Set

Both are 14-piece starter sets aimed at new and casual golfers, and the choice comes down to handedness and bag makeup. The Callaway Strata Plus adds a sand wedge and a 5-hybrid at 26 degrees, so it covers more short-game and long-iron gaps out of the box. The Aspire XD1 is the pick if you need left-handed clubs, and its 21-degree hybrid and True Temper steel irons are solid for the category. Owners of both describe them as easy to hit and good value for a first full bag; neither is built to the standard of a fitted set.

• Choose the Callaway Strata Plus if you want a sand wedge and a higher-lofted hybrid in the box and a brand with a long track record in game-improvement clubs.
• Choose the Aspire XD1 if you play left-handed and want a 460cc titanium driver with a 21-degree hybrid and steel-shafted irons.