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For a top of the line, affordable ping pong paddle, look no further than the Killerspin JET 800 N2. This is a high-quality racket that is lighter than its predecessor and offers impeccable speed, control, and spin for intermediate or advanced players. If you’re serious about learning several serving techniques to master the game or heading to a tournament soon[1], then this is the number one recommended product among the best table tennis paddles on the market.
You don’t have to break the bank to play with the pros, and that’s exactly what the Killerspin JET 800 N2 is good for. Get fantastic value for your money by investing in a durable, long-lasting paddle made from an advanced combination of ply and carbon fiber that offers top-notch features for a mid-range price. It looks sleek, dangerous, and professional, so you can walk into a match feeling prepared and ready to show off your skillset.
Our Top Pick
Killerspin JET 800
- Make powerful moves with this 7-ply blade
- Get improved precision accuracy
- Exceptional traction and grip
Our Favorite Picks for Table Tennis Paddles
- Killerspin JET 800 N2
- JOOLA Omega Control
- JOOLA Infinity Edge Racket
- Butterfly Boll Forte FL Proline/w Rozena
- Butterfly Viscaria Proline w/Tenergy
- STIGA PRO Carbon
- Penn 3.0 Table Tennis Paddle
- Yasaka Mark V
- Butterfly 302 Penhold Racket
- Palio Legend 2.0
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Best Overall 
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Killerspin JET 800 N2
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Best Budget Ping Pong Paddle 
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JOOLA Omega Control
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Best High-End Carbon Ping Pong Paddle 
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STIGA PRO Carbon
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Top 10 Ping Pong Paddles Reviews
Best Overall: Killerspin JET 800 N2
Specifications
- Spin rating of 90
- Power rating of 90
- Control rating of 75
- Measures 6” x 6⅛“
- ITTF competition approved
Performance
Skill Level
Description
Lightweight with a large sweet spot, this paddle is capable of generating spins that give your opponents a run for their money. While this is a suitable product for professional use, it’s also the best table tennis paddle for intermediate players or advanced players [2] who are looking to improve their technique and gain better control. With the spin you can generate, your opponents will have a challenging time keeping the ball on the table.
This is a lighter paddle than the previous version, the Killerspin JET 800 N1, and is designed for serious players. The only downside here is that Killerspin does not allow you to select the rubber on the paddle, so you’re stuck with manufacturer default.
For committed ping pong players [3]who regularly compete in tournaments for fun or professionally, you’ll adore the protective memento box that comes with your purchase. Preserve memories, score, or signatures within the box and enjoy them each time you pull out your paddle to play.
What we love about this paddle is the fact that it has good speed and is not bouncy at all. The blade is large enough to give you great defense. It’s durable and well constructed
Pros:
- The flared handle is easy to grip and maneuver
- 7-ply wood and carbon fiber blade improves accuracy
- Elegant and natural finish
- Keep mementos of your favorite tournaments in the storage box
Cons:
- Some durability issues with the handle cracking after use
Best Budget Ping Pong Paddle: JOOLA Omega Control
Specifications
- 5.7mm blade thickness
- 5-play combination of basswood and tung wood
- JOOLA adapter 32 rubber on both sides of the blade
- Flared handle for adequate grip
- Control rating 97
Performance
Skill Level
Description
As a budget option, this product gives you a low price for a high-quality item. While it’s not suitable for professional players, it will help you elevate your game beyond using a more basic racket. If you’re new to the sport and just want to try a few rounds without putting in a large initial investment, the JOOLA Omega Control is the right choice.
It provides reasonable control and feels comfortable in your hands. There is a noticeable difference in the workmanship and quality of this paddle versus the basic styles you can purchase in a pack of 4 at a big box supplier. Some users report breakage in the handle or peeling rubber after 2-3 months of frequent use, which is not as likely to happen if you invest in a more expensive paddle than this one. However, for the low price, you receive a paddle that is designed for learning proper technique and moving beyond casual social play.
Based on a user feedback, this paddle can be able to hit shots intuitively that land just where I want them. It has good control and feels balanced on your hands.
Pros:
- The use of Tungwood provides more power behind each hit
- Light and strong helps you develop proper technique
- The flared handle offers a comfortable grip and excellent control
- Great for fun family tournaments
Cons:
- Speed rating 75
- Spin rating 75
Best High-End Carbon Ping Pong Paddle: STIGA PRO Carbon
Specifications
- Product weighs 0.45 lbs.
- ITTF approved for tournaments
- Speed rating of 99
- Spin rating of 100
- Control rating of 80
- 7-ply extra light blade
Performance
Skill Level
Description
Heavier than most premade rackets, this product is still considered lightweight given the speed it produces. It uses a medium rubber that is forgiving for beginners who can do forehand or backhand drives. Recreational players with some experience who aren’t’ ready to invest in a custom racket will benefit from this paddle.
If you’re playing regularly, the rubber on this paddle will lose grip after 4-5 months, which will decrease your ability to put any spin on the ball. While the blade is long-lasting, you will need to replace the rubber to maintain this product’s quality.
This paddle is lightweight and offers reasonable speed. It allows novice players to chop and spin the ball with more ease and increase their skills to compete against more experienced players. While Stiga brand is not the cheapest option on the market, it is high quality and worth the investment for one of the best rackets available today.
Another thing we totally agree with Ping Pong Enthusiasts is how insanely good the rubbers of this paddles are. The blade is a little heavier than most premade bats. However, this blade is considerably lighter when compared to other offensive blades. The weight of this bat is just right for people who are starting to develop offensive playstyle
Pros:
- Utilizes Carbon Technology for powerful performance
- Features 2 layers of carbon for improved rigidity
- Transfers energy out of the handle
- Reasonable price for high quality
Cons:
- Not suitable for advanced players
- Some users reported the product was delivered damaged
Best Entry Level Ping Pong Paddle: JOOLA Infinity Edge Racket
Specifications
- The blade is 5.7 mm thick
- Blade consists of 5-ply wood and 2-ply carbon
- Spin rating 94
- Speed rating 95
- Flared handle for a comfortable grip
- ITTF regulation size
Performance
Skill Level
Description
Get basic control of the ball with this entry-level paddle that has an extremely tacky surface. The grip will allow you to spin the ball and play at a fast pace. If you’re just playing for leisure once in a while, then this might not be a worthwhile investment, but if you’re a beginner who is serious about learning correct techniques and improving for competitive play, it’s a fantastic place to start.
This is a stiff and lively blade that is not ideal for slow play or blocking. It will be a learning curve for users who are changing over from a lower-end paddle that doesn’t have a lot of spring to it and, at first, may feel challenging to manage. However, as you adapt to this paddle, you’ll find it elevates your control level and allows you to improve your technique.
Based on table tennis enthusiasts, this plays and feels very well balanced in your hands with great control, power, spin and feel. It’s comfortable in your hands and not too top-heavy, this is a fantastic blade for the serious beginner.
Pros:
- Koto wood is stiff for faster blocks and counters
- 2-layers of carbon reduce impact vibration
- A speedy racket for amateur enthusiasts
- Available in multiple colors
Cons:
- Heavier than other similar paddles
- No case provided
Best Ping Pong Paddle For Intermediate Players: Butterfly Boll Forte FL Proline/w Rozena
Specifications
- ozena powered by Spring Sponge
- Best for attack style of play
- Racket is assembled using VOC-free glue
- 108 spin rating
- 130 speed rating
Performance
Skill Level
Description
This racket provides stability and precision for experienced players who are not yet at an advanced level. It features hard outer veneers and a soft core for power, and a comfortable feel in your hands. Quick, topspin shots will feel like a breeze with this paddle at your disposal.
Rose-dyed sponge technology is used in the Rozena sponge design. Its power can help compensate for directional swing errors and subtle racket angles to give you stability in your performance. This high tolerance rubber is forgiving to help intermediate players uplevel their game.
This blade requires no assembly and arrives premade. While advanced players sometimes prefer custom paddles, this product is ideal for the intermediate player who is not yet ready to invest in a custom blade. Utilizing High Tension Technology in its newly developed top sheet, the Butterfly Boll Forte Proline with Rozena will exceed expectations for intermediate level performance.
According to a user feedback, this is a great paddle with quality rubbers. An excellent equipment with reasonable price you should have when playing ping pong. A great choice if you want to improve your game.
Pros:
- A forgiving racket to compensate for angles and directional swing errors
- It helps players take their game to the next level
- Racket rubber sheets are replaceable
- Flared handle for a more comfortable grip
Cons:
- Not suitable for defensive play
Best Ping Pong Paddle for Advanced Players: Butterfly Viscaria Proline w/Tenergy
Specifications
- The racket is assembled using VOC-free glue
- Rubber sheets are replaceable
- Stiff, fast attack blade
- Uses spring sponge technology
- Compact head size
Performance
Skill Level
Description
This is a high-quality blade that is widely used at the advanced level among professional players. Increase the power and speed of your looping and hitting with this certified tournament paddle. The thickness of the sponge makes this ideal for offensive play, but not for defensive players.
For beginners or intermediate players, this paddle will feel way too challenging to control because of the amount of spin and speed it produces. That’s why it’s best for experienced players who want to use it for looping and other more advanced functions. The Tenergy 05 rubber provides a hefty amount of spring that contributes to the power, but you may feel a lack of control as you adjust to this paddle.
The blade’s ergonomic design feels stable in your hand and will permit advanced players to enjoy a game comfortably and focus on their technique. On the more expensive side, this is a worthwhile investment for avid players committed to the sport.
This, without a doubt, is what most table tennis enthusiast like. It has the right balance or speed, control and vibration for your game. It’s fast while providing superb control. No wornder why this is a very popular model. In fact, it constantly gets sold out.
Pros:
- Arrives assembled and ready to use
- Blade has a high elasticity hit surface
- Lightweight with excellent shock absorption
- Allows minimal energy dissipation for more powerful shots
Cons:
- Provides low levels of control
Best Ultra-Low Budget Ping Pong Paddle: Penn 3.0 Table Tennis Paddle
Specifications
- Comes with competition grade rubber
- Has a concave handle for increased comfort
- Strong 5-ply paddle blade
- Suitable for beginner and intermediate players
- Product weighs 0.37 lbs
Performance
Skill Level
Description
Lightweight with good grip, this product provides an exceptional playing experience for an ultra-low-cost. If you’re new to the game or looking for an affordable option for your kids, then this is the way to go. For adequate power, spin, and shot combinations, you won’t be disappointed with this for the low investment.
Due to the lower price, you can expect a rubbery smell when you first unpackage the product that may take some time off-gassing to wear off. Some users found that the rubber began peeling after use but only in minimal amounts that did not impact the paddle’s effectiveness.
If you’re considering purchasing a ping pong table for the kids or you are just an amateur player who enjoys a casual game against friends at a party, then this is a wonderful budget option that will get the job done. It’s not suitable for professional or tournament use. Experienced players will find that it’s too stiff and launches the ball higher than desired on return.
Pros:
- Perfect for entry-level users
- The sponge backing helps moderate speed and control of the ball
- Super affordable, perfect for kids
Cons:
- Strong, synthetic rubber scent that some might find off-putting
Best Ping Pong Paddle Under $50: Yasaka Mark V
Specifications
- Blends natural and synthetic rubbers
- Speed rating of 90
- Spin rating of 90
- Control rating of 78
- Comes pre-assembled
Performance
Skill Level
Description
This is the best table tennis racket to add power to your movements without compromising your control. It’s a happy medium between tenser and harder/dead rubbers. Perfect for beginners upgrading from a premade bat for the first time for more experienced forehand players who want assurance they will quickly return serves.
The medium-hard sponge provides a good amount of speed, though not as fast as Tenergy line rubber. The strength of this rubber paddle is the control it gives. Whether you want to loop or topspin, it can do it with ease. This is the ideal choice for offensive players looking to improve their speed or control at an affordable price.
Durable and long-lasting, this rubber will hold up through months of intense play and is most suitable for a stiff blade. You can’t go wrong with this product at an introductory level, as it is recommended by experienced players for beginners and intermediates alike.
Most users loved how excellent the control to top spin using this paddle is.
Pros:
- Ideal pimple shape for the balance of spin and speed
- It comes in attractive red and black colors
- Uses high-quality rubber material
Cons:
- Some users found the spin was not sufficient for modern standards
- Not suitable for beginners
Best Penhold Ping Pong Paddle: Butterfly 302 Penhold Racket
Specifications
- Features Butterfly Yuki rubber on both sides
- 2.1 mm sponge layer
- Control rating is 85
- Speed rating is 72.5
- Spin rating is 75
- Product weighs 1.6 oz.
Performance
Skill Level
Description
A high-quality paddle from a reputable brand, this item is very affordable and suitable for individuals interested in learning to play with a penhold grip. The Yuki rubber is sticky and helps with the spin, and for those learning techniques and smashes, this is a great tool.
You will see an improvement in performance for beginner and intermediate level players upon upgrading to this paddle that allows you to have more control over your technique. It will be an adjustment to learn to hold the paddle in the different grip styles, but many professional players find this to be an effective method for quick returns.
If you have a ping pong enthusiast in your life looking to improve their technique and setup, this is a great choice to recommend or give to them as a gift. It will invigorate their passion for the sport and get them excited to keep practicing.
This is the most recommended paddle for beginners who’s trying to up their game with a decent rubber and blade.
Pros:
- Yuki rubber is very tacky and offers phenomenal grip
- A free racket cover is included
- Low price for a durable, long-lasting paddle
Cons:
- Not as strong for beginner offensive players
- Some users found this was not a suitable paddle for spinning
Best Ping Pong Paddle for Balancing Speed and Control: Palio Legend 2.0
Specifications
- ITTF approved for tournaments
- Uses palio rubber CJ8000 on either side of the blade
- Features a flared handle for maximum control
- Product weighs 9.12 oz.
Performance
Skill Level
Description
This is a worthwhile investment for beginners and intermediate players alike. It produces a significant amount of spin on the ping pong ball and has exceptional ratings for accuracy and speed. While not as comfortable in your hand over long periods, especially if your hands sweat, the benefits vastly outweigh the cons. The two different sides of the paddle give you versatility while you play. The paddle’s red side offers more control and a slower reaction, while the black side is ideal for speedy smashes.
This racket should be cleaned gently every so often (depending on how frequently it’s being used) to retain its grip. This is a reasonably priced product that allows you to play well with minimal investment. For beginners transitioning to more competitive play, this is a fantastic option for a six to nine-month trial run on a new paddle before spending more money on a more expensive model.
Pros:
- Fantastic for beginners just learning the game who need a higher amount of spin
- Includes a bat case to protect your paddle and rubbers
- Redesigned blade to improve the quality and feeling in your hand
Cons:
- Not as comfortable for gripping as some other handles
- Padding starts to peel after some use
Conclusion
Our team has determined the best overall product for your money is the Killerspin JET 800 N2. Featuring superior construction of 7-ply wood and carbon for the blade topped with Nitrix rubber, this is the best table tennis paddle that offers ultimate control.
Approved for competition use and popular among amateurs and professionals alike, the Killerspin JET 800 has high ratings for speed, spin, authority, and power. It will efficiently improve your performance by putting a heavy spin on your serves and increasing the precision accuracy of your movements. Rubber reduces the shock vibration and allows some forgiveness for the angle at which you hit the ping pong ball.
Our Overall Pick
Killerspin JET 800 N2
Overview
Whether you’re an amateur who’s new to the sport or an experienced player looking for your next tournament racket, there’s a perfect ping pong paddle out there for you. There are many choices to make on the style and material you need and have access to based on your price range.
About Ping Pong Paddles
Almost everyone is familiar with ping pong, also known as table tennis, which involves two to four players hitting a lightweight ball back and forth across a table. Even if you’ve played a casual game of table tennis in a friend’s basement at some point, you might not be aware that many different features make up the best ping pong racket. While some are designed for defensive use, others are created for quicker, offensive play.
The critical parts of the paddle to consider are the blade, rubbers, the sponge, the handle, and the pips (or pimples).
Essential Features of Ping Pong Paddles
When determining what the right ping pong paddle for you is, think about what kind of player you are to ensure you select a product with the right features to play to your strengths.
The first thing to consider is the blade’s material, which can generally be either wood or carbon. The difference between the two is the weight of the paddle and how it feels. A carbon blade is often faster than a wooden blade, while the wood option provides a better feeling of control. Carbon-fibre is harder and allows the blade to have a larger sweet spot.
You should also be aware of the thickness of the sponge on the paddle. The thicker the sponge, the thicker the paddle, which adds more power to your movements throughout a match. A thicker sponge is better for a more offensive player with a higher attack speed. If you want more precise control over your movements, a thinner sponge is more suited to your needs.
The rubber on your blade will either be inverted or have long or short pips. Pips are the little raised pieces of rubber on either side of the paddle. For a classic paddle or a more defensive playing style, short pips will absorb some of the spins on the ball and reduce the spin on your return. Long pips counteract your opponent’s spin, but they can be challenging to control your movements and don’t work well for strategic, offensive play.
The most common rubber for paddles is inverted because the smooth surface has the most spin potential making it the right choice. If you’re just starting in table tennis today or want to be an offensive player, inverted or short pips are the best choice. Choosing long pips might be suitable at times for one side of the paddle so that you have the option to turn it around and use something more predictable when necessary.
Handle Types and Holding Your Blade
There are 3 types of handles and 2 different ways to hold your ping pong paddle. The first way is common in the west and is known as the “Shakehand Style” because you hold the racket’s handle the same way you shake someone’s hand. For most players, this will be the most comfortable, familiar way to play.
A penhold grip is often used among players in Asia and requires the paddle to have a shorter, thicker handle. In the penhold position, you hold the handle between your forefinger and thumb, just like you’re holding a pen. This can be more challenging for beginners but can be useful for quick, controlled movements.
The different handle shapes also matter to some players because they can impact the comfort of your grip. You can purchase rackets that have concave handles, flared handles, or straight handles. A straight handle is exactly as it sounds with perpendicular, 90° corners, and straight edges. In a flared style, the handle curves inwards from the base, creating a narrower section in the middle for you to hold onto before it expands back out to meet with the blade. The handle’s concave style does the opposite, bulging out in the middle to create a thicker area for you to grab onto.
Choosing the best handle shape is all about personal preference and the size of your hands as to what feels secure and comfortable in your grip.
Understanding The Rating System
To fully comprehend the reviews of different paddles, you need to understand the standard rating system [4]. Power, Speed, and Spin ratings are traditionally given a score out of 10 or 100. The higher the number, the more power that paddle possesses or, the quicker it’s speed. The manufacturer assigns these values.
We have more interesting ideas to help you make use of your leisure time on our homepage.
You can also read our best table tennis table and ping pong robot reviews to better your games. However, if you’re still not sure what table to purchase, you can read our detailed review of Stiga vs Joola for the two top brands available today. We also have an individual review of Stiga ping pong table to give you more idea of the brand.
If you are looking for more affordable, yet quality tables, check out our reviews of the best rated ping pong table on a budget.