Are used golf balls worth it? Grades explained

Buyer guide · prices updated November 15, 2026

Used golf balls (also called recycled or lake balls) are recovered from water hazards and courses, cleaned and sorted by condition. They're one of the easiest ways to play a premium ball for much less.

The grades

• Pristine (5A): look new, with no visible marks.
• Mint: nearly new; perhaps a tiny mark. The closest thing to a new ball at a real saving.
• Near Mint (4A): very good condition, perhaps a small mark, logo or slight discoloring. The most popular choice.
• Good / Grade A–B (3A and below): visible marks or scuffs. Fine for practice and casual rounds.
• Refinished: cleaned and repainted. They look new, but the repainting can change how they play, so many golfers prefer unrefinished balls.

Grading isn't standard between sellers, so check each shop's description.

Do they play like new?

A ball that has sat in water for a long time can lose a little distance, but for most golfers a Mint or Near Mint premium ball plays very close to new – and costs much less than a new dozen.

Today's used ball prices

Cheapest in-stock price per dozen, checked November 15, 2026, before sales tax and shipping.

See all 100 on the used golf balls page.