If you want to buy the best ping pong paddles and are overwhelmed with all the options available, you arrived at the right place. Ping pong paddles are a combination of a wooden blade with the handle and the rubber’s faces that enable it to give the required bounce and in turn, make the game more dynamic and interesting.
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Quick Overview: The Best Ping Pong Paddles
We have chosen these table tennis rackets from top ping pong brands – those brands with credibility & value. The review is based on qualities of paddles like control, spin, speed, price, and market reception.
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This post will focus on helping you find the best racket for your needs. We also review the top 10 best ping pong paddles available on the market. And we hope this will help you to learn everything you need to learn before buying a table tennis racket.
Your Playing Style
Beginners should concentrate on improving their basic table tennis skills first. So pick a bat that is more neutral and has good control so that you may focus on refining your shots. As you get better, you’ll develop a style of play, which will influence the type of bat you choose. Perhaps you’re an attacking player who likes to go for speed? Then look for a bat that’s quick and light. Alternatively, if you’re a defensive player, seek something with greater control over the ping pong ball to slow it down.
How To Grip Your Bat
Choosing the proper paddle is also determined by how you grip the bat. There are a variety of ways to grip the bat, but the most popular ones are the Shakehand and Penhold grips.
Keeping Your Paddle in Good Condition
After purchasing a beautiful paddle, you want to make sure it lasts as long as possible by taking care of it. There are two key ways to keep your table tennis paddle in tip-top shape: using a case and cleaning it regularly. We have written an informative guide on the best ping pong paddle cases so that you can choose one that fits both your style and needs. Similarly, making sure to clean your equipment often will increase its lifespan–plus, who wants to play with a dirty bat anyways?
Best Ping Pong Paddles Reviews
Why don’t I just get the best overall ping pong paddle? Because you need to get a paddle that is suited for your needs! A ping pong paddle that is too fast or spinny might impede your growth and lead to undesirable habits. Similarly, a ping pong paddle that isn’t spinny enough or isn’t quick enough will cause performance issues. Always go for a bat that matches your skill level. I, for one, notice way too many intermediate players rushing into top-of-the-line bats. Don’t make this mistake again.
#1. STIGA Pro Carbon – Best Ping Pong Paddle Under 100 Dollars
The STIGA Pro Carbon is a hard table tennis racket with features that will appeal to intermediate and advanced players. The 2 carbon plies inside the blade add to its rigidity and response, hence increased power and speed. There are 5 carbon plies, which go a long towards boosting the paddle’s performance. Its noticeably more spin and speed are perfect for aggressive players that rely on a backhand and forehand loop stroke.
This paddle is a little heavier and at 2.0mm, the sponge is quite thick. However, this won’t deter you from making an excellent shot. Of course, you will need to take good care of it if you want the rubber to retain its stickiness for a long time.
Conclusion
If you’re a complete beginner, consider the Stiga Titan or Evolution. The majority of premade bats have a 1.5-1.7 mm sponge thickness. This paddle has a 2 mm thickness and is more responsive than your average paddle! If you play regularly, you’ll most likely be fine.
If you haven’t played with thick sponges before, it will be difficult to get the hang of it. After you’ve gotten acclimated, this paddle is quite good for the price. When your offensive strokes improve and you feel that this paddle is too sluggish, you may upgrade the rubber (or purchase a custom racket)
If you’re a novice who can already do spin-intensive shots (such as loops) or an intermediate player, avoid buying a pre-assembled bat. The Stiga S5 rubber is fantastic for flat hitting/smashing, but it’s meant for novices.
- Offers above-average speed for solid shots
- Uses ITTF approved rubber for international tournaments
- Uses a looping blade that makes it easy to practice with this paddle
- Wood layers contrast nicely with the light and dark in the handle
- Handle and edges are a little rough
#2. Killerspin JET200 – Best Ping Pong Paddle for Beginners
The Killerspin JET200 is one of the cheapest ping pong paddles offered by Killerspin and for its price range, it sure has a lot to offer. It is designed for recreational players with way better rubber than what you’d expect for a cheap model. While you won’t be able to use it in any tournaments due to the colors of the rubber, the 5-ply blade will come handy. It offers a high level of control, allowing you to put the ball where you want it.
The speed is quite diminished, mainly because this paddle is specially designed for beginners and recreational use. It allows for easy ball placement, something that anyone trying to hone their skills will appreciate. This racket is well built, has a decent amount of weight to it and feels solid in your hand.
Another notable attribute of the HET200 is that it offers a good amount of spin. However, it don’t expect o throw a top-spin into offensive strokes as the rubber isn’t super sticky. Other features include 5.9mm blade thickness, flared handle, and 1.8mm high performance handle.
- Good sponge and blade for optimum control
- Solid feel and durable construction
- Reasonably priced
- Flared handle offers optimum grip
- Could offer more speed, spin and power
- Not ITTF approved
#3. STIGA Titan – Best Budget Ping Pong Paddle
The STIGA Titan is an affordable ping pong paddle that makes a good investment for someone on a tight budget. It boasts a lightweight design with decent rubber that provides a decent amount of spin.
STIGA uses the patented Triumph inverted rubber, which, though not the best rubber out there, is ITTF approved. It also offers plenty of control for an amateur to work on their fundamentals.
This racket uses a 5-ply extra light blade and features a concave Italian Composite handle to provide optimum grip. We were a little concerned about the complaints of low-quality blades and sponge but at such a low price, this isn’t such a bad compromise.
- Rubber provides a surprising amount of spin
- Increased control and consistent ball placement
- Offers enough power to put the ball on the other side with little effort
- Some users cited quality issues
#4. Killerspin JetBlack Combo – Best Ping Pong Paddle for Superior Control
Killerspin has a reputation for designing attractive ping pong paddles that offer unparalled performance and functionality.
Their JETBlack Combo is specially engineered for superior control without sacrificing functionality. It features a 5-plywood blade that is attached to a flared handle.
Killerspin uses Nitrix 4Z rubber to ensure powerful shots, and make you more adaptable in controlling shots against your opponents.
- Features a control oriented design
- Accompanied by a super soft and stylish black case
- Offers amazing spin abilities
- Flared handle has firm and comfortable grip
- Rubber wears out extensively, particularly if not well taken care of
#5. Sport Game Pro Ping Pong Paddle with Killer Spin – Best Ping Pong Paddle for Spin
As the name suggests, the Sport Game Pro Ping Pong Paddle is certainly designed to provide superior spin. It boasts an incredibly cool design that will hardly go unnoticed.
The blade has a 2.mm coating that ensures optimum ball speed.
Also featured is a high-quality 5-ply pure wood dovetail handle that fits nicely into your hand. It has a good grip and remains comfortable for the entirety of your games.
- Offers stable control and increased persistent base strength
- Good value for the money
- Backed by a 30-day warranty
- Stylish and colorful design
- A little too heavy
#6. STIGA Evolution – Best Ping Pong Paddle For Intermediate Players
Despite being at the more expensive end of the scale, the STIGA Evolution makes a good investment for someone who’s already played a bit and wants to advance to the next level. It is the second-fastest racket from STIGA, with the only competition being the Pro Carbon reviewed above. The paddle comes with a 2mm premium rubber that combines with a 6-ply blade. STIGA uses a Shock Dispersion Tube in the blade, which transfers and evenly distributes shockwaves when a ball hits the racket.
The handle on this racket is designed for a shake hand grip but works just as well for a penhold grip. It fits nicely in average-sized hands but it’s concave design also makes it a little too wide for those with smaller hands.
Premium rubber
- Uses ITTF approved rubber
- Features Shock Dispersion Technology
- Offers plenty of control thanks to 6-ply blade
- Softer sponge allows increased spin
- Overall balance and blade material are ideal for more aggressive players
#7. Killerspin JET500 – Best Ping Pong Paddle for Aggressive Players
The Killerspin JET500 is our recommended pick for those who like playing with quick shots and smashes. The racked offers an excellent balance of control and speed, which is achieved with a combination of great features. It has a great grip and is designed to provide greater precision. The blade is 6.0mm thick and is attached to a flared handle, which allows for a more aggressive play.
Like most paddles in the JET series, this model features ITTF approved Nitrix 4Z rubber. At 2.0mm, this model has the thickest rubber. The increased speed you need to overpower your opponents is delivered by five premium, complementary layers of wood. Killerspin also uses Dual Carbon Technology to make the JET500 a powerhouse paddle. It offers true balance to help you adapt to multiple playing styles.
- Uses 2.00mm Nitrix 4Z rubber, which is ITTF approved
- Flared handle and 6.7mm thick blade allow for aggressive play
- Backed by 30-day warranty
- A good investment for intermediate to advanced players
- It’s easy to find yourself over hitting the ball since the paddle is designed for aggressive play
#8. Killerspin JET600 – Best Ping Pong Paddle for Advanced Players
The Killerspin JET600 is geared towards intermediate and advanced players with a preference for aggressive plays or finesse shots. It comes with a heavy blade for increased power as well as a high-end rubber that increases spin.
Killerspin did a good job of combining a high-quality sponge and a heavy blade since both features work together to provide increased control.
This allows for consistent ball placement, which is incredibly important for finesse players.
- Blade offers good mix of control and speed
- Handle has firm yet comfortable grip
- Uses ITTF approved Nitrix 4Z rubber
- Pricey
#9. Diamond Stallion High Tech Ping Pong Paddle – Best Ping Pong Paddle In The World
The Diamond Stallion High Tech Ping Pong Paddle offers the benefits that come with playing an energetic table tennis game with a friend.
It is designed for an all-around player that needs optimized control.
The paddle is made from an excellent 2.0mm rubber material and speed wood. It boasts the kind of blade design that offers competitive players optimum control and precise shots.
- Includes 3 quality bonuses i.e. storage case, E-Book and zipper wristband
- Has a high-tech 25-layer polished handle with firm and steady grip
- Offers optimum control to make excellent shots
- Too heavy for some users
#10. BandySports Premium Ping Pong Paddle Racket – Best Ping Pong Paddle for Competitions
If you are in the market for a ping pong paddle that will help you win competitions, the BandySports Premium Ping Pong Paddle Racket will come handy.
It is an ultra-durable, ergonomic paddle that will remain comfortable for the entirety of your games. This racket also boasts durable construction with high-quality materials not to mention a lightweight and comfortable grip.
Another notable feature of the BandySports Premium Ping Pong Paddle is that it combines 1.6mm with 2.0mm sponge to ensure stable control and great spin. This ultimately results in exceptional performance.
It has a flared shape, long handle that’s made from pure wood and stiffer than most. In addition to the paddle, you get helpful tips as well as a matching set of head and wristbands.
- Offered with a matching head and wristbands for an authentic athletic look
- Features an ergonomic design
- Provides great spin and stable control
- The grip is quite firm and comfortable
- Customer service could be better
Best Ping Pong Paddles – Buyer’s Guide
Ping pong is quite fun and like most sports, you will need the right equipment to make everything easier and more fun. The right racket can go a long way to improve your skills. From the type of rubber used and type of handle to how well a paddle fits in your hand, there are many factors that affect how you the ball and where it goes.
One of the first things you will notice when shopping for a ping pong paddle is that there are distinct blades i.e. western and penhold blade styles. The former is a good option for players who use the shake hands grip. This is when you hold the table tennis racket with the head fitting into the V-area formed by the index finger and thumb. The handle usually rests in the palm of your hand. On the other hand, the penhold blade style is suitable for those who use a penhold grip. It is quite common among Asian players and occurs when one holds the handle between the forefinger and thumb.
You should also consider the weight of your paddle when making a purchase. The ideal weight for you will highly depend on your playing style. An offensive player will need a heavy racket while a lightweight model will suffice for a defensive player. Lastly, a mid-weight paddle is suitable for all-around players.
Type of rubber
It is important to note that since 1986, the ITTF requires that one side of the paddle be black and the other red. The different colors allow your opponent to know when you change the playing side. That said, this isn’t a rule you need to adhere to if you aren’t looking to compete. The rubber used doesn’t have to be uniform but there are a few things you will need to consider.
The rubber is usually covered in pimples and the direction to which they point will play a crucial role in determining your play style. This is because they affect the reaction of the ball. Pimples that face out often create a smooth edge and surface, which limits your play surface. These are generally intended for more experienced players.
Another important thing to think about is the thickness of the rubber and sponge. There are main ranges to choose from when it comes to sponges. Players who are more rounded and aggressive will love sponges that range between 2mm to 2.5mm. Those who lean towards a more defensive play should go for 1-1.5mm sponges. Most players choose a 1.5mm rubber. However, defensive players prefer 1.5-1.7mm rubber while those who want to go on the attack like to bump it to 2.0mm.
Handle style
Different ping pong paddles come with unique handle styles. Common types include flared, conic, anatomic, straight, left-handed, and right-handed. All of these are designed for players who use the shakehand grip. Japanese penhold and Chinese penhold handles are also common.
Materials and blade layers
A ping pong paddle is usually made up of a blade and handle. The blade is the part that actually hits the ball. Some of the best and expensive paddles come with a minimum of five layers in the blade.
As for the materials used in the handle and blade, there are a few options to choose. Most models utilize plastic, which has a tendency to break and splinter after a few months.
Wood is our top recommendation but if you don’t have budget constraints, you can always opt for a combination of wood with another material like carbon fiber or titanium.
Performance rating
Most table tennis rackets come with a performance rating, which allows you to assess how different models compare during gameplay. This is usually given as a score out of 10 or 100, with higher figures representing increased speed or performance. These scores are found in the tech specifications of each paddle.
Maintaining Your Ping Pong Paddle
Good maintenance is of paramount importance if you want to get the most out of your ping paddle. You should invest in a good cleaning cloth capable of picking up any gunk on the rubber. In addition, be careful when applying any kind of cleaner on the rubber. This is because many paddles feature a removable rubber. A few models are attached with water-based glue, which makes the rubber non-removable. Using mild soap and a small amount of water won’t cause much harm.
It’s always good to have some kind of edge tape on your paddle. This provides added stability and support to your paddle. Some models come with this feature but in most cases, this is something left up to you. Keeping your paddle in a case ensures that it is ready for the next match. Some come with their own case and if not, you can always choose from assorted varieties on the market.
Conclusion
Whether you are a beginner, looking to advance to the next level or a pro table tennis player, there is the best ping pong paddle for you. You just have to know what your needs are and narrowing down the options to decide what’s best for you will be easy.
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Overall, the article elaborates on the topic well because of the concrete examples of the best table tennis rackets. The thing I enjoyed is the ability to check the price for every single paddle as well as the videos, attached to the description. The precise division of paddles regarding pros and cons was also particularly helpful. Furthermore, the pieces of advice in regards to paddle materials and handle styles was top-notch: the detailed comparison, between the Japanese and Chinese penhold handlers, for instance, was especially of the most value.
I am not a professional player and I don’t feel any differences at the moment I keep one or another paddle that is at the top rating of the best table tennis paddle. There is no significant distinction of paddles’ properties I think. That’s just a marketing has a sense. Equipment for professionals are created of the best materials those characteristics are very similar. I choose as a rule the brand that is more available for me in terms of price and purchasing. For now brand Stiga is the best option for me.
Fantastic ping pong paddle reviews! I am a gym teacher and have decided to buy some new items for the kids at my school as my way of giving back. The ping pong paddles we have now so beat up they are unusable. Someone donated some tables at a church event so I want to get the paddles. I will be purchasing other items for them as well. This made it super easy to get the best ones on my budget.
Great Top 10 best ping pong paddles! I am glad you added some budget options to the list. I am new to playing ping pong and my friend and I have made it our new year’s resolution to drop 50 pounds each so we are going to take up ping pong and play several times a week along with bike rides. I am just not sure my shoulder will hold up yet so I don’t want to spend too much on paddles.
I purchased some tabletop tennis/ping pong paddles from a garage sale back in September. Got tons of use out of them but they are no longer usable so I wanted to try and find the exact ones they were, and I did thanks to your list. They are the STIGA Titans in blue and it’s best ping pong paddles for me. I am going to order 4 more right now!