L.A.B. Golf Link 2.1 vs 2.2: Which Zero Torque Putter Is Right for You?

Introduction

The L.A.B. Golf Link series has been a talking point among golfers since the original model arrived. The original Link putter did not win everyone over, but the new Link 2.1 and Link 2.2 aim to change that. Both putters carry the same Zero Torque technology that L.A.B. Golf is known for, but they come in two distinct shapes. The Link 2.1 is the longer, slimmer version, while the Link 2.2 is the shorter, more compact option. Both are heel-shafted blades, which avoids the center-shafted look that many golfers dislike, while still delivering the balance that makes this technology work.

The Two Putters at a Glance

The Link 2.1 and Link 2.2 share the same core technology but differ in shape and feel. The 2.1 is noticeably longer from toe to heel, giving it a sleeker profile at address. The 2.2 is shorter and thicker, with a more compact head that some golfers find easier to align. Both putters feature beautiful milling on the face and a high-quality head cover, which matters at this price point.

The screws visible on the putter head are what keep the lie angle balanced for your stroke. That is the key to the Zero Torque system, and L.A.B. Golf advises that you never change those screws. Both putters are heel-shafted, so the shaft enters near the heel and then bends away from your eye, keeping the visual clean and traditional.

You can choose a custom alignment line when ordering directly from L.A.B. Golf. The two putters tested here each had a different alignment setup, but the choice comes down to personal preference. An upgraded Acra shaft was also fitted, and both putters came with the pistol 0 degree grip, which replaces the forward press design that some golfers found polarizing.

Who These Putters Are For

These putters are aimed at golfers who want the stability of Zero Torque technology in a more traditional blade shape. If you have struggled with distance control on other L.A.B. putters, particularly the aluminum models like the DF2.1 or DF3, the stainless steel construction here is a significant change. The Link 2.1 and 2.2 are milled from a single block of 303 stainless steel, which delivers a firmer, more responsive feel and better distance control right off the bat.

The 2.1 suits golfers who prefer a longer, slimmer blade that frames the ball nicely and offers a larger hitting surface. The 2.2 appeals to those who want a more compact, solid head that feels stable through the stroke. Both are excellent options, but the choice often comes down to which shape inspires more confidence at address.

Medium Putt Test: Where Zero Torque Shines

The medium putt test is where these putters really stand out. From eight to ten feet, amateur golfers typically make only 25 to 33 percent of putts, while professionals convert nearly half. Improving that percentage by even a few strokes per round can make a significant difference to your handicap.

In testing, the Link 2.2 was rolled through four zones with two balls each. Every putt stayed on the intended line, and the second putt was converted three out of four times. That consistency is the hallmark of a great putter. When you know the line and the speed, the putter should deliver the ball where you aimed it. The Link 2.2 did exactly that.

The stainless steel face also addressed a common complaint with earlier L.A.B. putters. The aluminum models struggled with distance control, but the 303 stainless steel construction here provides a more consistent roll and better speed control. The feel is firm but not harsh, and the ball comes off the face with a satisfying pop.

Long Putt Test: Avoiding the Three Putt

Long putts are where three putts can ruin a round, so consistency is critical. In the long putt test, the Link 2.2 showed strong performance. Several putts finished close to the hole, and the final three were all converted with easy tap-ins. One putt was blown past after overcorrecting for earlier short misses, but the overall result was four for four on the final stretch.

The key takeaway is consistency. When the stroke is solid, the putter delivers the same result every time. That reliability is what separates a good putter from a great one, and the Link 2.2 demonstrated it across the long putt test.

Short Putt Test: The Knee Knockers

Short putts are where rounds are won or lost. The test involved seven three-foot putts arranged in a circle around the hole, covering uphill, downhill, left-to-right, and right-to-left breaks. The Link 2.2 converted six out of seven, with the only miss coming on a putt that was taken for granted.

The pop coming off the 2.2 is particularly noticeable on short putts. The ball rolls truer and holds its line better than many other putters. This is where the Zero Torque technology really shines, keeping the face square through impact and delivering a consistent roll.

This is also where the 2.2 edged out the 2.1 in testing. The more compact head inspired a bit more confidence at this distance, and the solid mass of the 2.2 felt more stable through the stroke. Both putters are excellent from short range, but the 2.2 had a slight edge in this test.

Feel, Sound, and Forgiveness

The Link 2.2 feels like a more traditional anser-style putter, which is a compliment. L.A.B. Golf has refined the feel and sound to the point where it rivals conventional blade putters, while still delivering the stability of Zero Torque technology. The sound at impact is solid and muted, with no harsh ringing.

Forgiveness is another strong point. Off-center hits, whether heel, toe, or thin strikes, still produced acceptable results. The compact mass of the 2.2 lends itself to slightly better forgiveness than the 2.1, simply because the head is more solid and compact. That said, both putters handled mishits admirably.

The alignment and accuracy of the 2.2 earned a perfect score in testing. Looking down at the putter, the alignment line and the overall shape inspire confidence. You feel in control from the moment you address the ball.

Buying Advice

The L.A.B. Golf Link 2.1 and Link 2.2 are premium putters with a premium price tag. At $599, they are a significant investment, but they deliver measurable improvements in distance control, alignment, and forgiveness. The stainless steel construction is a clear upgrade over earlier aluminum models, and the feel is closer to a traditional blade than anything L.A.B. Golf has produced before.

If you prefer a longer, slimmer blade with a larger hitting surface, the Link 2.1 is the better choice. If you want a more compact, solid head that feels stable through the stroke, the Link 2.2 is the way to go. Both putters offer the same Zero Torque technology, so the decision comes down to shape and personal preference.

Conclusion

The L.A.B. Golf Link 2.1 and 2.2 are a significant step forward for the Link series. The stainless steel construction fixes the distance control issues of earlier models, and the heel-shafted blade design will appeal to golfers who prefer a traditional look. The Link 2.2, in particular, impressed with its consistency on medium and short putts, earning high marks for alignment, feel, and forgiveness.

At $599, these putters are not for everyone, but for golfers who want the stability of Zero Torque technology in a more conventional package, they are worth serious consideration. The choice between the 2.1 and 2.2 ultimately comes down to which shape inspires more confidence at address. Both are excellent putters, and either one could be the difference maker in your bag.