Looking for the best Ping Pong paddle?
With tons of options out there, the task of picking a good paddle for Table Tennis can be quite overwhelming.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a veteran of the game, our top picks will make this selection process a breeze.
Best Ping Pong Paddle Brands
Before you invest in one, you may want to learn more about the leading brands for a worry-free purchase.
Butterfly, Stiga, DHS and Killerspin are among the top Table Tennis Gear manufacturers. The quality really shows in all their products.
Our Top Picks (Amazon):
Choosing professional Ping Pong paddles can often be a daunting task because there are so many options out there.
If you’re expecting good speed/control, go for Butterfly Balsa Carbo X5 Pro-Line. Not only is it among one of our top performers, it’s great for aggressive play.
It’s a great choice for both beginners and seasoned Table Tennis players. It’s not a cheap racket, but if you ask us, it’s more than worth it.
Top paddle pick (Amazon): Butterfly Balsa Carbo X5 Pro-Line
Also Check: Best Table Tennis Balls
Also Check: Best Table Tennis Tables
Table Tennis Paddles - Things to Consider
Before making a purchase, you should keep a few things in mind.
No two Table Tennis paddles are the same as there are a lot of factors involved. These determine the cost, and material used in racquet.
These will directly affect the way you play the game because of variable spin, speed and control.
1. Rubber
Rubber affects the amount of spin that can be imparted to the ball.
Grippy rubber is a better choice if you’re into spin. There are different rubber variants available – waffling and pimples to name a few.
With a good quality rubber, you’ll have a better control because of good traction.
2. Rubber Sponge
Sponge goes between the rubber and the wooden paddle.
Sponge absorbs impacts from strokes, and controls the bat’s speed/control. If you have a defensive technique, go for something that has a thinner sponge.
Thicker sponges will add more speed, but that will add weight to the racket.
3. Wood
While selecting a racquet, go for something that’s made 85% out of wood.
Most paddles are made out of wood, and with competitions, you definitely want one that’s at least 85% wood.
It will make the paddle heavy, but also improve the grip and control.
4. Weight
This shouldn’t be a deal breaker, but professional Table Tennis paddles are usually heavier than the entry-level ones.
That’s because these have multiple layers of wood in the blade, and then it helps with speed and spin.
Selecting a Table Tennis Paddle
You should keep the above factors in mind before making a purchase.
A high-end paddle will not only use better material, but it will also help you become a better player over time.
It’s really a one-time investment if you think about it. Most entry level paddles are just about average, and you can’t expect something extraordinary from them.
Checking ratings of paddles will also help. Paddles with thicker rubber usually offer better speed/spin but that comes at the cost of control.
Thin rubber means better control over the game, but less spin/speed.
Be sure to pick a paddle from a reputed manufacturer that has good reviews. You may also want to invest in an inexpensive paddle case.
Recommended carry case for two Rackets (Amazon): Killerspin Barracuda
Top Ping Pong Paddle Picks - Reviewed
Following are our top picks for paddles for playing Ping Pong.
These heavily tested rackets will not only last, but also offer great gameplay. These are well suited for both beginners and professional Table Tennis players.
1. Butterfly Balsa Carbo X5 Pro-Line
If you’ve been at it for a while and think it’s time to step up your game, this paddle will make for a great choice.
Balsa Carbo X5 Pro-Line offers great speed, spin and control. It uses Tenergy 80-FX rubber that not only packs a punch but it’s also good for absorbing attacks.
This lightweight ‘made in USA’ racket comes from Butterfly, which is one of the leading brands that produces Ping Pong gear.
2. DHS HURRICANE-II
This paddle is a favorite for Ping Pong players that compete in tournaments.
This ITTF approved racket offers exceptional spin but if you’re just getting started, this won’t be an ideal purchase.
If you’re past the ‘beginner’ stage, this is definitely a good option.
Hurricane-II also comes with a few goodies – two balls in a gift box, a paddle case and Landson wrist support.
3. STIGA Pro Carbon
STIGA Pro Carbon is a good option for intermediate-level players.
It offers a decent grip with a good combination of speed and spin. It’s better suited for attacking and offensive gameplay, though.
It uses multiple layers of Carbon that offers good rigidity. This pocket-friendly racket will let you punch the ball with great speed and spin.
Check Latest Price (Amazon) >>
Also Check: STIGA Evolution vs Pro Carbon
4. Butterfly 802
802 is another one of the top notch offerings from the house of Butterfly.
It uses ITTF-approved rubber that will let you compete in National/International competitions. The rubber is 2.1mm thick that offers great spin and speed.
It’s made out of Acrylate Carbon that absorbs impact. This means no more vibrations on fast shots/returns. It also enlarges the ‘sweet spot’ so to speak.
5. Killerspin RTG Diamond TC
Most Killerspin paddles are well-known for aggressive gameplay. These racquets offer great control and exceptional spin/speed.
This competition-grade paddle is not cheap by any means, if you rely on spin on your strokes, you’ll have a good time with this lightweight bat.
It uses two Titanium Carbon layers and five wood plies. If you’re an aggressive player, this racket is tailor-made for you.
6. Butterfly 603
603 is more like a younger sibling of Butterfly 802.
If you’re looking to master the basics and eventually get better at Ping Pong, this racquet will make for a great little companion.
It uses a 2.1mm rubber that will offer great combination of speed, spin, and control. You’re also covered by a limited 30-days warranty from Butterfly.
7. STIGA Raptor
STIGA Raptor is a great choice if you’re looking for a decent combination of speed and spin without breaking the bank.
The lightweight blade from STIGA uses what they call ‘Advanced Carbon Technology’ that offers exceptional control while gameplay.
If you’re looking to play freely and don’t want to buy a high-end Table Tennis bat just yet, the ITTF-approved Raptor will not disappoint you.
8. Killerspin Jet 800
Jet 800 is a great paddle for offensive gameplay that relies on spin and speed.
Killerspin Jet 800 is a little heavy, but surprisingly it’s also great for defensive players. The firm defense it offers is just as good as the power it introduces.
It uses Nitrix-4z, a premium rubber that’s only found in high-end racquets. This means your opponents may have a hard time because of good spin and speed.
9. STIGA Evolution Performance
This entry-level racket from STIGA is a good choice for beginners.
Not only is it inexpensive, it offers exceptional control. This may be of paramount importance if you’re relatively new to the game of Table Tennis.
It offers above-average speed/spin but control is where it truly shines. It’s also lightweight so it won’t put a lot of strain in your arm with those long rallies.
Check Latest Price (Amazon) >>
Its newer variant, STIGA Talon is also available in case you were wondering. The highly-rated newer model has quickly become a favorite among beginners.
Wrap Up
As you might have guessed by now, finding the best Ping Pong paddle is no joke.
If you have the right expectations, it will make the process a whole lot easier for you. Pick something that suits you best.
A paddle that has good enough ratings in terms of speed, spin, and control.
Top Pick (Amazon): Butterfly Balsa Carbo X5 Pro-Line
Top Budget Pick (Amazon): STIGA Raptor
So, which Table Tennis racket will you pick?
Do you already have experience with some of our picks?
Either way, let us know by leaving a quick comment down below.
