- Have you been trying to improve your ping pong game but you feel as if you have a dead end?
- Or have you been losing all the time whenever you play table tennis with your friends?
Well, if you have found yourself in any of the above situations, there is a high chance that you have been using the wrong paddle – and it’s preventing you maximizing your potential. Choosing the right table tennis paddle plays a vital role in how you play.
Also, with the right paddle, you will find the game more enjoyable, as opposed to using something that you are not comfortable with. A great paddle will immediately improve your playing style and your opponents will even notice that. But with thousands of ping pong paddles on the market, which one do you choose? Well, this ping pong paddles 2019 buying guide is here to provide you with all the information you need, to make an informed decision.
| Name | Performance Ratings | Play Style | Price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Killerspin JET800 | Speed – 9.5 Spin – 9.0 Control – 8.0 | All-round | |
| STIGA Supreme Table Tennis Racket | Speed – 9.0 Spin – 9.2 Control – 8.9 | Beginner-intermediate | |
| Killerspin JET200 | Control-8.5 Spin – 7 Speed – 6 | Beginner | |
| DHS Hurricane II | Speed – 8.5 Spin – 9.3 Control – 8.0 | All round | |
| STIGA Pro Carbon | Speed – 9.9 Control – 8.0 Spin – 10 | Beginner | |
| Duplex 6 Star | Speed – 9.0 Control – 8.5 Spin – 9.0 | Professional | |
| Butterfly Balsa Carbo X5 | Spin – 9.0 Speed – 8.5 Control – 9.0 | Professional | |
| Butterfly 401 | Speed – 8.0 Spin – 8.0 Control – 8.5 | Beginner/Intermediate |
Buying Guide
Whether you call it table tennis or ping pong, choosing the right paddle can create all the difference in your game. With so many paddles currently on the market, you need to pay attention to the buying process, to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. Nothing can be more frustrating than buying a paddle only to realize that you are not comfortable using it. So, what should you consider before buying a ping pong paddle?
- Playing style: The first consideration when it comes to choosing ping pong paddles is to determine your style. Are you are a professional player, an intermediate or a novice? If you are a novice, then you need to start with something basic or cheap and then proceed to sophisticated paddles as you improve your skills and enhance your style.
- Performance rating: Most table tennis paddles have a performance rating. This rating helps the player to determine how each paddle performs during gameplay. The performance rating is usually done on a score of 0 to 10. Ratings are determined by power, control and spin. The higher the rating, the better the performance.
- Handle style: Table tennis paddles come with different handles. Some of the most common include anatomic, infrared, conic, left-handed, straight, as well as right-handed. All these handles are designed for different types of players.
- Type of rubber: According to ITTF regulations, one side of the blade should be red while the other should be black. However, if you will just be playing table tennis for leisure, then you don’t need to adhere to these color The most important thing is to consider the thickness of the rubber and sponge used. If you are the aggressive type, then you should consider sponges that are between 2mm to 2.5mm. On the other hand, if you are a defensive player, then you should consider thickness of between 1mm to 1.5mm.
Reviews
Whether you are professional table tennis player or you are just a novice who wants to advance to the next level, you now understand what you need to consider before buying a ping pong paddle. Having said that, here are the best ping pong paddles in 2019.
1.Killerspin JET800
Key Features
- Solid construction
- Lightweight design
- Approved by professionals
- Gives you more control
Most of the ping paddles available today come with two paddles. However, most of those standard paddles will not help much when it comes to improving your game. Also, they are made of inexpensive and cheap materials. Therefore, if you want to play like a professional in the comfort of your home, then you should be ready to purchase a paddle that will help you achieve that. That paddle is none other than the Killerspin JET800.
Featuring an ergonomic design and various layers of wood, this paddle is designed to take your game to the next level. The Killerspin JET800 is one of the best all-round ping paddles you can find on the market today. It even performs better than most of its expensive counterparts. If you want to dominate your opponent and make an impression on the court, then this is the right paddle for you.
Apart from several layers of wood, this paddle also features carbon material, which will give you more power when delivering those shots. It’s also one of the best paddles for a spin. While other ping pong paddles weigh you down while leaving you fatigued at the end of a game, that is not the case with this one. It has a lightweight feel and design, which means you can use it for several hours without feeling tired or experiencing cramping or pain. With its unique design, it can fit in either hand, thus giving you more control. The Killerspin JET800 is designed to give you more power and control with each swing. With approval from the IFTT, this is one of the best paddles for use both at home and professionally.
Light, powerful and stylish
Double-carbon technology for cutting-edge performance
Flexible and versatile for measured performances
Durable construction
Great elasticity to ensure awesome turns
Modern and professional look and feel
Excellent choice for aggressive players and amateurs
Reduced control due to increased speeds
2.STIGA Supreme Table Tennis Racket
Key Features
- ITTF approved rubber
- ACS technology for improved speeds and control
- Extra light blade for quick shots recovery
- Strategically positioned recess for extra touch sensitivity
STIGA is a renowned brand when it comes to quality at an affordable cost. With the STIGA Supreme, you are getting a performance-level ping pong paddle, designed for beginner to intermediate level. Its lightweight design will give you the stability you need to strike confident shots. As much as this paddle may not deliver the same levels of spin as compared to others, its speed is unmatched.
If you are a beginner looking to get straight into the game, then this is the right racket. It comes with a shock dispersion tube, which is responsible for ensuring high comfort levels when you are playing an intense game. Also, the shock dispersion tube absorbs vibration, thus minimizing fatigue. In addition, this technology transfers energy from the handle to the surface thus improving the speed and feel, while giving you more control.
The STIGA tube is another great technology present on this paddle. Apart from improving the characteristics of the paddle, it helps to improve its performance throughout the game. In addition to the STIGA tube, this paddle also comes with STIGA crystals, which help to harden its surface while improving speeds. As one of the best paddles for beginners, the STIGA Supreme is exceptionally lightweight, which ensures balance, precision and control. Without a doubt, the STIGA Supreme is an excellent paddle which strikes the right balance between affordability and quality. If you are looking to improve your table tennis skills, then this paddle will do the job.
- Defensive attributes and great ball control
- Comfortable handling and design
- Great for beginners
- High-quality brand with years of experience
- Quality construction at an affordable price
- Comes with ACS technology for improved speed, power and control
- Features an extra light blade for improved recovery rate
- Low quality rubber
- Not for professional players
3.Killerspin JET200
Key Features
- High-performance rubber
- Stylish yet affordable
- Great sponge for control
- Solid construction
The Killerspin JET200 is a great entry-level paddle, which is exclusively designed for people who are learning this game. Featuring a five-plywood manufacturing design, you can rest assured that this paddle will deliver the durability that you need as you enhance your skills in the game. Unlike other products, this one comes with a memory book. You can then use this memory book to record your daily scores as well as other milestones that you achieve in your game. Also, noting down your scores helps to track your performance while improving your game.
The blade is lined with jet basic rubber, which gives you strong control of the game. In addition, its black and blue colored rubber adds style and flare to your game. This ping pong paddle also features flexible PVC tape all round the sides, which protect it against dents while preventing the rubber from overhanging onto the sides of the blade. You will also notice that its blade has infrared handles, which are designed to offer spin, speed and control.
Apart from delivering a great gaming experience, the Killerspin JET200 is available in three attractive colors, which are lime, blue vanilla and Mocha. These great and attractive colors can suit the personality of different players. With its professionally engineered design and high-quality construction, you can rest assured that this paddle will deliver precise and strong shots, every time you hit the ball.
- Features high performance rubber for greater ball control
- Beautiful style and vibrant color
- Great for beginners and amateurs
- Stylish but affordable
- Solid construction and materials to improve durability
- Engineered for precision and power
- Not ITTF approved
- Could deliver more spin
4.DHS Hurricane II
Key Features
- Top notch material
- Great comfort
- Made from high-quality materials
- Suitable for professional level players
If you are looking forward to a serious game with tough competitors, then you will need a paddled that offers the right amount of spin, control and composure. That paddle is none other than the DHS Hurricane II. It’s one of the best ping pong paddles for professionals and there are numerous reasons for this.
First, it features a combination of wood and rubber. Its ergonomic handle fits comfortably in your hands while allowing you to play several matches without experiencing fatigue. You will also notice that its handle is slightly longer than the others. DHS used this design intentionally for extended playing. The rubber coating present on the surface comes from the same material used in professional rackets. You are therefore assured of a high-quality racket, which will not break down or fail any time soon.
Its surface is slightly dimpled to enhance your return swings and serves while adding more spin to your return shots. You will also notice that this paddle is larger than the ones you have used in the past. With this larger design, you can easily find a sweet spot to hit the ball harder and faster. It also comes with a carrying case, which has enough space to accommodate two balls as well as other accessories. If you frequently play serious ping-pong matches, then you should consider this paddle.
- Tacky rubber that gives you more ball control
- Superior design and construction
- Comes with two ping pong balls
- Professional performance and quality
- Top of the line brand
- Comes with five layers of wood to ensure durability
- Not suitable for beginners
5.STIGA Pro Carbon
Key Features
- Great spin control
- ITTF approved rubber
- Increased speeds
- Great comfort levels
- Professional level execution
- Extremely flexible and lightweight
STIGA is one of the most respected brands when it comes to ping pong paddles, and the STIGA Pro Carbon doesn’t disappoint. If you are looking for a paddle that can enhance your playing skills, then this one is perfect for your needs. It’s highly rated due to its high levels of speed, spin and comfort. As noted above, it meets all the regulations and standards specified by the ITTF. Therefore, you are assured that you are using a professional ping pong racket. It’s designed to meet all your performance and comfort needs whenever you are playing this game. With this racket, you can deliver the perfect spin without losing control of your game.
Constructed using lightweight wood, the STIGA Pro Carbon remains one of the best ping pong paddles for long-term play. The manufacturer also enhanced its surface with ITTF approved rubber, which you can easily remove and replace in case it wears out. This paddle also comes with a thin layer of sponge material under the rubber, which allows you to hit harder shots for more speed and spin.
One of the biggest benefits of using this paddle is that it comes with a heavier handle than others. While this might appear as a drawback, it’s, in fact, an advantage, since you have a better grip and you also have more control over your shots. Thanks to its heavy handle and lightweight blade, the STIGA Pro Carbon delivers excellent balance, great speed and reliable control throughout the game.
- Fast with great spin control
- Comes with ITTF approved rubber that is replaceable
- High performance in different game settings
- Quality construction from a reliable brand
- Highly affordable and great for beginners
- Features a 7-plywood construction that makes it both lightweight and rigid
- Delivers great spin thanks to the use of nanotechnology
- Not suitable for long distance play
- Slightly heavier than others in its class
6.Duplex 6 Star
Key Features
- Weight-balanced design for precision shooting
- High-performance, durable rubber
- Great control
If you are looking for a professional grade ping pong paddle, then the Duplex 6 Star offers a reliable option. Duplex may not be a common name in the market when it comes to ping pong paddles. However, their paddles are among the best especially for novice to intermediate level. It has a weight balanced design which improves your hit precision as well as recovery time. As you probably know, time is of utmost importance in table tennis. Therefore, you need a racket that allows you to make quick returns at high speeds. With the Duplex 6 Star, you don’t have to worry about those things, since it has been precision-engineered to ensure you don’t miss or mishit a shot.
It also comes with high-performance durable rubber, which meets ITTF standards. It’s comfortable and has a great grip. The wood used for construction is lightweight and of high quality. It doesn’t break apart even if you use the paddle continuously for an entire year. Its rubber surface allows you to deliver precise shots at extremely high speeds. With this racket, you will enjoy playing table tennis while enhancing your skills. When it comes to speed, control and comfort, the Duplex 6 Star is just what you need.
- Its durable rubber maintains grip even after extended use
- Great for both offensive and defensive play
- Even weight distribution for precision and quick returns
- ITTF approved materials and design
- Comes with three free balls
- Reasonable price tag
- Quite heavy for beginners
- Quite low on spin generation
7.Butterfly Balsa Carbo X5
Key Features
- Cost-effective
- Great smash ability
- Lightweight and durable
If you are looking for a ping pong paddle that offers balance, power and precision, then the Butterfly Balsa Carbo X5 is unmatched. Its blade is lightweight, has a soft feel and offers a great touch. It also comes with two extra carbon layers, which enhance the power and speed of the blade to give you that killer shot. Its soft feel enables you to deliver super blocking. As much as this paddle was initially meant for close-to-table play style, it still comes with enough power to deliver powerful spins from mid to far distances.
Apart from being a cost-effective and popular tennis paddle, the Butterfly Balsa Carbo X5 remains one of the lightest blades you can find on the market today. It features a predominant Balsa core, combined with two additional carbon layers to enhance its power and speed. It features a thick handle for a firm and comfortable grip, as well as a soft surface to give you greater control of your return shots. As much as you may encounter some slight issues when you are new to this blade, you will appreciate its performance once you get used to it.
To minimize its sensitivity, it’s advisable to combine it with soft or medium rubbers. Its smash ability is great. One of its most outstanding features is its controllability. The Butterfly Balsa Carbo X5 is arguably one of the best ping pong blades when it comes to game control. With this blade, you can perform professional blocking with ease. With this blade, you are assured of enjoying your game while delivering a competitive performance.
- Amazing for spin generation
- Great control for professional performances
- High power and great precision returns
- Suitable for close to the table players
- Highly recommended for attacking players
- Excellent versatility
- Outstanding control and drive
- Quite fragile
8.Butterfly 401
Key Features
- Powerful shots
- Strong spin
- Great value for money
If you are a beginner or intermediate player looking for paddle with a powerful spin and power, then the Butterfly 401 is suitable for your needs. It’s designed for players in this class, who want to enhance their game without spending too much on a ping pong paddle. As one of the best entry-level paddles, you are assured of getting value for your money. It comes with a 2.1 mm sponge, which is quite thick as compared to other paddles. However, this extra thickness helps to create more power while its surface tackiness enables you to generate spin. Also, it comes with a racket cover, which helps to protect it against dirt, dust and other materials that may damage the rubber. When it comes to affordability versus quality of construction, only a few paddles can compete with the Butterfly 401. Buy this paddle today and enjoy the game you love.
- Powerful and precise shots
- Tacky surface for strong spin
- Great value for money
- Soft sponge delivers a spongy feel
- Superior grip and comfort
- High performance ratings
- Suitable for beginners, intermediate players and professionals
- Handle is slightly shorter
FAQ
1. Should I buy a pre-assembled racket or a custom-made one?
Well, it’s always advisable to pre-assembled paddle, since you can easily find one at affordable prices. Also, buying a pre-assembled paddle will simplify the buying process, since the rubber is already attached to the racket. Therefore, you don’t need to spend countless hours studying rubber and blade charts or trying to find the right rubber and racket combination. However, when ordering a pre-assembled paddle, always remember that you should not remove the rubber from the paddle. If the rubber becomes worn out, then it’s time to consider a replacement. On the other hand, if you are a professional player looking for a specific racket, then you can order a custom-made one. However, custom-made rackets are more expensive.
2. Why rubber should I choose?
The blade determines most of your racket’s overall speed. However, as much as the rubber also contributes a certain amount of the blade’s speed, it’s primary role is spin control. Rubbers used in the best ping pong paddles are usually divided into five categories. They include inverted, short pips, long pips, anti-spin, and no-spin. Inverted rubbers have a tacky surface, which generates a great amount of spin. They can be used by all types of players, from defensive-minded to aggressive attackers. Short pips are designed for the attacking players. They allow you to attack your opponents notwithstanding the incoming spin. They are great for blocking, returning and hitting shots. As for long pips, they are designed for players who anticipate their opponent’s mistakes. On the other hand, no-spin rubbers are great for great for returning serves, blocking as well as changing the pace of the game. If you rarely used both sides of the paddle during play, then a no-spin rubber is the best to choose.
3. Should I choose carbon blades?
Carbon fiber enhances the speed of a racket. Also, it will increase the span of sweet-spot, thus making the paddle deliver consistent shots. Carbon is also used as a reinforcing layer, thus strengthening the paddle. Due to these factors, carbon blades tend to have a hard feel as compared to the others. They are perfect for aggressive players and hard-hitters.
4. What is the ideal sponge thickness?
Most rubbers come with several layers of sponge. The sponge layer is normally found between the wood and the top sheet. The sponge also acts as a cushion. Blades with a thin sponge layer have a hard feel, since the ball makes more contact with the wooden surface, thus resulting in less speed and spin. On the other hand, blades with thicker sponge normally have a soft feel. Thicker sponge delivers more spin, and the blades are faster since the sponge acts as a catapult to the ball. Therefore, the ideal sponge thickness depends on your style of play.
5. How often should I change the rubber sheets?
The performance of the rubbers fitted on your racket will deteriorate after some time. When it deteriorates, you will notice that it produces less spin and speed than it used to be. Also, your game will not feel lively. The lifetime of the rubbers will depend on your frequency of play. As a rule of thumb, the number of times you should change the rubber is directly proportional to the number of times you play per week. Therefore, if you play three times in a week, then you should change the rubber three times annually.
Verdict
Choosing the best ping paddle that suits your style, will allow you to perform your desired spin while giving you more control of the game. Although there are thousands of paddles of the market, we have selected the best for you, to make your work easier. We highly recommend STIGA paddles, if you are looking for an all-round paddle, whether you are an amateur, an advanced player or a professional. Choose one that matches your style and enjoy your game.
Leave a Reply