Scotty Cameron Newport vs Ping Anser 2: Classic Blades Compared

In the world of blade putters, few names carry the same weight as Scotty Cameron and Ping. The Scotty Cameron Newport and Ping PLD Anser 2 are both rooted in decades of precision, tour success, and elite craftsmanship. While they share a classic blade shape and heritage design, their performance, feel, and appeal diverge in key ways.

This detailed comparison will break down how these two iconic models stack up in terms of design, materials, performance, pricing, and suitability for different putting styles.

Design & Aesthetics

Scotty Cameron Newport:

• Traditional plumber’s neck blade

• Signature tri-sole design for setup consistency

• Brushed stainless steel finish with milled sight line

• Heavily influenced by the original Ping Anser shape but refined with luxury-grade finishes

Ping PLD Anser 2:

• Slightly longer and narrower than standard Anser

• Clean matte finish to reduce glare

• Heel-toe tungsten weighting for forgiveness

• Subtle alignment line and minimalist branding

Expert Insight:“The Newport oozes tour-inspired craftsmanship. The PLD Anser 2, on the other hand, blends modern tech with a timeless silhouette,” says club fitting expert Mike L., Golf Galaxy.

Feel & Sound

Newport:

• Soft, responsive feel thanks to deep milling

• Buttery feedback preferred by pros like Tiger Woods (who used a custom Newport 2)

• Slightly higher-pitched sound on impact

Anser 2:

• Solid feel with moderate feedback

• Milled face offers consistent roll but less plush than a Newport

• Quiet, controlled acoustic signature

Player Feedback:

• Newport: “Every putt feels intentional. The softness is unbeatable.”

• Anser 2: “Reliable, balanced, with more feedback on mishits.”

Materials & Build Quality

Scotty Cameron Newport:

• Milled from 303 stainless steel

• Luxury-quality fit and finish

• Removable sole weights for custom feel

Ping PLD Anser 2:

• Fully milled from 303 stainless steel

• Tour-grade precision through Ping’s Putting Lab Design (PLD)

• Custom options via Ping Wrx Tour Department

Chart: Key Materials Comparison

Performance on the Green

Expert Insight:“The Newport rewards perfect strokes, while the Anser 2 is a bit more forgiving on heel/toe strikes. If you want forgiveness in a blade, PLD edges it,” says Tom R., PGA-certified coach.

Price & Value

Newport:

• Price: ~$450 USD

• Premium brand perception

• High resale value

• Includes headcover and custom options

Anser 2:

• Price: ~$450 USD (retail version), Custom PLD ~ $650+

• Value-focused given tour-level performance

• Easier to access at retail stores

Who Should Use Each?

Scotty Cameron Newport is ideal for:

• Players with a strong-to-moderate arc in their putting stroke

• Golfers seeking soft feel and elegant design

• Players who want prestige and tour-proven performance

Ping PLD Anser 2 is better for:

• Golfers who want blade feel with added forgiveness

• Players who value precise roll with solid feedback

• Anyone interested in a modern twist on a classic

Chart: Best Fit By Player Type

Tour Presence

Scotty Cameron Newport:

• Trusted by legends like Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth, and Justin Thomas

• Common choice among elite amateurs

Ping PLD Anser 2:

• Viktor Hovland, Tony Finau, and Bubba Watson have used PLD models

• Ping tour staff get custom PLD Wrx putters built to spec

Expert Takeaways

• Mike L., Club Fitter: “Both putters deliver world-class roll, but your stroke path and feel preference should drive your decision.”

• Golf.com Equipment Panel: “The Newport is a luxury scalpel; the Anser 2 is a modern precision tool.”

• PGA Coach Tom R.: “If you’re inconsistent with strike, go Ping. If you want to control every aspect of your stroke, go Scotty.”

Final Verdict

Choosing between the Scotty Cameron Newport and Ping PLD Anser 2 isn’t just about price or aesthetics—it’s about matching your stroke, feel preference, and consistency needs. The Newport is a classic blade built for players who demand the softest feel and elite control. The Anser 2 offers a bit more forgiveness while maintaining the sharp precision of a blade.

Both are incredible choices—just tailored to slightly different types of players.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which is more forgiving: Scotty Cameron Newport or Ping PLD Anser 2?
The Ping PLD Anser 2 is slightly more forgiving due to its heel-toe weighting and deeper cavity design.

2. Are Scotty Cameron putters worth the price?
Yes—especially for players who prioritize feel, design, and craftsmanship. They also hold high resale value.

3. Can I get a custom Ping PLD Anser 2?
Yes, through Ping’s Wrx Tour Department. However, retail versions are also excellent for most players.

4. Which putter is better for a strong arc stroke?
The Scotty Cameron Newport is better suited to strong arc strokes due to its toe hang and balance.

5. Does face milling affect performance?
Yes. Deeper milling (Newport) offers softer feel, while shallow milling (Anser 2) provides firmer feedback.