Best Ball vs. Scramble: What’s the Difference and How to Play

You’ve probably heard golfers toss around the terms “best ball” and “scramble” like they’re the same thing. Sure, both are team formats and great for group play, but the vibes? Totally different. If you’ve ever nodded along like you knew the difference (we’ve all been there), this guide is for you. We’re breaking down what each format actually is, how they work, and which one you should pick for your next round—whether you're out to win or just trying not to lose too many balls.

What is best ball golf?

Best ball is a team golf format where each player plays their own ball for the entire hole, and the best individual score on the team counts as the team’s score. Two man best ball is most common, but you could also play best ball golf with four.

Let’s say you’re playing in a group of four. On the first hole:

• Player A scores a 5
• Player B scores a 6
• Player C scores a 4
• Player D scores a 7
  

Since Player C had the lowest score, the team’s score for that hole is a 4.

Best ball golf is great if you want to play your own game while still being part of a team. Everyone gets to complete each hole, which means you’ll still feel the rhythm of a normal round, just with a safety net. If you come out over par, someone else’s strong performance can pick up the slack.

It’s also a great way to learn from better players. You can compare how you played each hole against the team’s best score, and spot areas for improvement without pressure.

Level up your team golf skills → How to Read Greens: A Golfer’s Guide to Sinking More Putts

Best ball rules and etiquette

• Everyone plays their own ball the whole way through. No switching, no dropping a buddy’s ball “just this once.”
• Putts must be holed—no “that’s good” unless it’s agreed on beforehand (or you’re just out there vibing).
• Keep pace. Just because everyone’s playing their own shots doesn’t mean you need a 5-hour round. Play ready golf and move it along.

What is scramble golf?

Scramble is one of the most beginner-friendly and fast-paced golf formats out there. Instead of everyone playing their own ball from start to finish, a scramble is all about teamwork and selecting the best shot each time.

Here’s how it works:

1. Everyone on the team tees off.
2. The team chooses the best drive.
3. From that spot, everyone hits again.
4. Repeat the process until the ball is holed.

Only one score is recorded per hole, and it’s based on the entire group’s effort. Again, two man scramble is most common, but you can also play with a group.

Scramble takes the pressure off individual performance. If you hit a bad shot, no worries! Someone else’s solid shot keeps the team moving forward. It’s social, encouraging, and a great format for players of all skill levels to enjoy a round together.

Scramble golf is all about collaborating and having fun as a group. And hey, you might even get to hit from spots you’d never reach on your own.

Level up your team golf skills → How to Increase Driver Distance: 11 Tips for Intermediate Players

Scramble rules and etiquette

• All players tee off, then choose the best shot and all play from there—drop within a club length (same cut of grass, no improving your lie).
• On the green? Everyone putts from the same spot. No creeping closer for a better angle unless your group’s cool with it.
• Still need to finish the hole? Don’t pick up once a par is guaranteed unless that’s part of the format (or everyone agrees to speed things up).

Rules and etiquette for both formats

Though they have their own sets of rules, both best ball and scramble golf follow traditional golf etiquette and rules. Besides that, however, are a few general guidelines golfers should follow when playing team golf.

General etiquette

• Don’t be a ball hog. In scramble, if your shot keeps getting picked, congrats! But don’t rub it in. And if it’s not your day, keep swinging and stay positive.
• Celebrate good shots, either yours or your teammate’s. This is supposed to be fun, remember?!
• Help find lost balls. Even if it’s not your shot, be a team player.
• No unsolicited swing tips. Unless someone asks. Then be gentle.

Looking for solicited swing tips? Understanding Golf Club Swing Weight: The Key to a Balanced Swing

Key differences between best ball and scramble

At first glance, best ball and scramble golf sound fairly similar. Both are team formats, both offer a break from solo stroke play, but they play very differently. Here's how they stack up side by side. 

Which format is better for you?

Both best ball and scramble offer a fun twist on traditional golf, but the “better” format depends on your goals, skill level, and who you’re playing with. Here are some questions to help you decide.

Do you want to play your own shots?

Yes → Go with best ball. You’ll still be responsible for your game and get to see every hole through from tee to green.

Not really → Try scramble. You’ll only hit from the team’s chosen spot, which takes the pressure off and makes it more collaborative.

Are you playing with beginners or mixed-skill players?

Yes → Scramble is more forgiving. It allows newer players to contribute without feeling overwhelmed.

No, we're all competitive → Best ball can offer more of a challenge while still being team-based.

Do you want to keep the pace of play fast?

Yes → Scramble usually moves quicker since you’re hitting fewer total shots.

No preference → Either format works, but best ball may take a bit longer as everyone plays out each hole.

Want to track your own progress?

Choose best ball. Since you’re playing every shot yourself, you’ll have a clear picture of how you performed.

Level up your team golf skills → Breaking 100: A Beginner’s Guide to Improving Your Golf Score

Our recommendation?

Scramble is perfect for casual rounds, company outings, and new golfers. Best ball is great for golfers who want a team feel without giving up the structure of a traditional round.

Still not sure? Try both! Many tournaments use one format for the front 9 and the other for the back. It’s a great way to compare and see what fits your style.

Team golf for the win

At the end of the day, both best ball and scramble are just excuses to play golf without the pressure of solo scorekeeping. Want to play your own shots and still be part of a team? Go best ball. Want a chill, team-first vibe where your buddy’s monster drive can carry the squad? Scramble’s your game. 

Whichever format you play, it helps to have clubs that make you feel confident from tee to green. Stix golf club sets are built for players who want clean design and solid performance without the frills.

Shop Stix golf club sets →

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