Top 9 Ping Pong Paddles for Enthusiasts and Pro-Level Players

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Last updatedLast updated: April 14, 2024
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There are many reasons why you may need a ping pong paddle – from practicing and casual games with friends to participating in competitions. No matter the reason for which you are looking for a new racket, it is important to consider the features you need and the materials it is made of to get the best ping pong paddle for your needs.

Besides these features, you also need to look at things such as spin and control ratings, speed, paddle construction, rubber and sponge thickness, as well as the number of paddles included in the set. We took all these factors into account and more when we looked at the most popular table tennis paddles on the market for our review, and found the STIGA Pro Carbon Performance-Level racket to be the one that stood out from all the rest. Though all of the paddles we review below are fantastic (and many come with a more wallet-friendly price tag), the STIGA Pro Carbon’s performance is hard to beat.

We spent days researching the best ping pong paddles currently available on the market and came up with a top featuring the best solutions out there for both beginners and professionals. The comparison table below lists all the models that made it to our top, and you can also find in-depth reviews of all of them below. In the end, you will find a buying guide that will provide you with all the information you need to make a good choice when buying a new ping pong paddle. Now let’s have a look at the best ping pong paddles in our table.

Top 9 Ping Pong Paddles Review 2024

Features
  • Speed: 99
  • Spin: 100
  • Control: 80
  • Construction: 7-ply balsa wood
  • Rubber/sponge thickness: 2mm
  • Number of paddles: 1

Extra features: carbon technology for higher power and speed; ITTF-approved

One of the most expensive ping pong paddles you can currently find on the market, the STIGA Pro Carbon Performance-Level Table Tennis Racket is created by Swedish company Stiga, which is one of the best-known table tennis brands in the world. The manufacturer states that the paddle is created with intermediate players in mind, as it can help them improve their game and take it to the next level.

The paddle features two layers of high-performance carbon for improved response and rigidity, which means that you will notice increased speed when playing. Tighter and stronger bonds in the rubber are created thanks to the Nano Composite technology, and you get extra control at high speeds thanks to the addition of ACS Numerous microscopic air capsules. Many of the users who tested and reviewed this paddle were impressed by the rate of recovery it provides, which is mostly due to the decrease in blade weight. Reviewers also appreciated the recess that is positioned strategically in the handle to enhance ball sensitivity.

The STIGA Pro Carbon Performance-Level Table Tennis Racket is an ideal tennis paddle for offensive players who want to be able to generate more spin and power for their returns as well. The paddle is not that suitable for defensive shots, and some users have found it a bit too rigid when it comes to tacking returns with finesse.

What are our favorite features?

  • High-quality carbon generates more spin
  • Made from ultra-lightweight balsa wood
  • Improves rate of recovery

What could be better?

  • Not great for finesse players
  • Expensive
2.

DHS HURRICANE-IIBest Ping-Pong Paddle with Carrying Case

Features
  • Speed: 100
  • Spin: 70
  • Control: 100
  • Construction: 5-ply wood
  • Rubber/sponge thickness: not specified
  • Number of paddles: 1

Extra features: includes wrist support, case, and 2 ping pong balls

Suitable for both home games and competitions, the DHS HURRICANE-II is a ping pong paddle that comes with a carrying case and works well for players of different levels. The paddle features a combination of rubber and wood and many of the players who tested it mentioned that it is rather easy to play multiple matches with precision because the wood handle feels very comfortable in the hand.

At first sight, you might notice that this paddle is larger than many of the other models available on the market, but this is actually good news because the larger size allows you to find the sweet spot on any table quicker so you can hit the ball faster and harder. Another thing that many reviewers liked about the DHS HURRICANE-II is that it comes with a piece of plastic that fits over the paddle’s rubber to protect it and extend its life. According to the manufacturer, you can play up to 75 matches before you need to change the rubber.

This paddle is a suitable one for those who participate in competitions because of its oversize design and rubber coating the paddle. The comfortable wood handle also contributes to the quality of this ping-pong paddle, but its price may be a bit too high for players who spend most of their time playing against their friends.

What are its best features?

  • High-quality rubber
  • Comes with carrying case
  • Comfortable handle

What could be improved?

  • Expensive
3.

STIGA Supreme Performance-Level Table Tennis RacketBest Ping Pong Paddle Under $100

Features
  • Speed: 90
  • Spin: 92
  • Control: 89
  • Construction: 6-ply wood
  • Rubber/sponge thickness: 2mm
  • Number of paddles: 1

Extra features: STIGA ACS for extra control and speed; ITTF-approved rubber

The STIGA Supreme Performance-Level Table Tennis Racket is one of the best choices out there for beginners and those who are looking for great control in their paddle. Made from six plies of wood and featuring STIGA’s Crystal Tech and Tube technology, this paddle is extremely light at only 140 g, which means that it remains comfortably in your hand and you will barely feel it while you play.

The panel itself is made from Future inverted rubber and features a 2 mm soft sponge layer that gives you an increased level of control because it holds the ball for longer. This is very important for beginners, because they shouldn’t aim to hit the ball with lightning speed but try to keep it on the table as much as possible. Because this paddle allows for lower speeds, it will permit you to gain enough confidence in your shots and develop a solid understanding of the game.

Many of the users who tested the STIGA Supreme Performance-Level Table Tennis Racket liked the fact that it allows players to learn various stroke types and techniques, which means that you can quickly progress from beginner to intermediate. The handle of the paddle is made from anatomic Italian composite with WRB system, and the paddle is ITTF approved as well.

Why is it special?

  • Great control
  • Lightweight
  • Perfect for beginners

What are the flaws?

  • Slow speeds
  • Not much spin
4.

JP WinLook Ping Pong PaddleBest Ping Pong Set

Features
  • Speed: 85
  • Spin: 86
  • Control: 87
  • Construction: 5-ply wood
  • Rubber/sponge thickness: 8mm
  • Number of paddles: 4

Extra features: set includes case and 8 ITTF-approved ping pong balls; 1-year replacement warranty

One of the best choices available on the market for those who are looking for a set of four paddles, the JP WinLook Ping Pong Paddle set is a great option for families and players of all skill levels. The paddles in this set features wooden handles that offer enhanced grip as well as 2 mm high bound sponge layer that brings with it better control, speed and spin.

The paddle set comes with eight ping-pong balls that are legal for official competitions as well as a free carrying and storage case so you can store and support your ping-pong set wherever you go. Many of the users who tested the JP WinLook Ping Pong Paddle were impressed with the ergonomic design of the paddles in the way they feel great in your hand. Even though these paddles may feel slightly on the heavier side, they offer a great combination of the essential elements you should for when shopping for ping-pong paddles: speed, spin and control. The entire set of paddles and balls is ITTF approved for size and weight, which means that you can use them in competitions. Users mentioned that the paddles definitely have a professional feel about them as well as a smooth finish that will allow you to perfect your spin.

What are its best features?

  • Ergonomic design
  • Includes balls and carrying case
  • High-bounce soft sponge layer

What could be improved?

  • Expensive
  • Slightly heavy
5.

Killerspin JET600 Table Tennis PaddleBest Ping Pong Paddle Under $50

Features
  • Speed: 80
  • Spin: 90
  • Control: 85
  • Construction: 5-ply wood
  • Rubber/sponge thickness: 2mm
  • Number of paddles: 1

Extra features: made from 3 types of dense wood; ITTF-approved

Manufactured by a relatively new American table tennis brand, the Killerspin JET600 Table Tennis Paddle is suitable for tournaments and other official competitions, but also offers high quality design for those who are looking for a ping-pong paddle for casual games. The premium rubbers offer a soft feel while also providing you with enough spring if you are a hard-hitter when you play.

Aimed at club level competitive players, this ping-pong paddle received a lot of good reviews from users and many of them mentioned that it is one of the fastest paddles available out there in this price range. The control you get with this paddle is fairly good, but it is not the best choice for beginners, because you should already know how to brush the ball correctly to obtain the best results with this table tennis paddle.

Users also raved about the amount of spin you can obtain from the rubbers of the Killerspin JET600 Table Tennis Paddle, and they also liked the superior construction and durability of the paddle. The blade is made from five-ply wood for increased power and precise placement. The ITTF-approved Nitrx-4z rubbers are stylish while providing you with extra power and spin to take you game to the next level.

What makes it special?

  • Premium rubbers
  • Ideal for intermediate and pro players
  • High quality design

What cons did we find?

  • Price
6.

Palio Expert 2 Table Tennis Racket & CaseBest Ping-Pong Paddle for Beginners

Features
  • Speed: 60
  • Spin: 90
  • Control: 100
  • Construction:
  • Rubber/sponge thickness: 2mm
  • Number of paddles: 1

Extra features: ITTF approved; comes in a case

The Palio Expert 2 Table Tennis Racket & Case is one of the best choices for beginners recommended by table tennis coaches. The paddle has been receiving consistently good reviews over the years, mostly because it is very easy to play with and because it offers a good combination of spin and speed for its price.

When you are a beginner, you shouldn’t play with a paddle that is too speedy or too spinny, because you can’t yet control your strokes perfectly, which means that the superfast paddle is too unforgiving for your budding playing style. Even though the Palio Expert 2 Table Tennis Racket & Case is highly controllable, it can still generate a good amount of spin, unlike many of the budget models in the same price range. According to reviewers and coaches, this is a table tennis paddle that you can choose as a beginner that allows you to evolve as well. This means that at some point in time you will be able to do all kinds of strokes with this paddle and still use it as an intermediate player.

If you transition from a very cheap ping-pong paddle to the Palio Expert 2 Table Tennis Paddle, you will quickly notice an improvement in speed as well as enhanced economics and comfort. However, once you reach are an intermediate standard, you may find it a bit too slow.

Why are we impressed?

  • Inexpensive
  • Suitable for beginners transitioning to intermediate
  • Balanced speed and spin

What negatives must you be aware of?

  • Intermediate players may find it slow
7.

Idoraz Table Tennis PaddleBest Pure Wood Ping Pong Paddle

Features
  • Speed: 99
  • Spin: 93
  • Control: 90
  • Construction: 5-ply wood
  • Rubber/sponge thickness: 2mm
  • Number of paddles: 1

Extra features: comes with a carry pouch; flared handle for better grip and balance

If you’re looking for a ping-pong paddle that can provide you with the correct balance of speed and control, the Idoraz Table Tennis Paddle would make an excellent choice. With a spin rating of 93, this paddle can make you truly enjoy your game, especially if you like to play in a tactical way.

According to many of the reviewers tested this paddle, the pure wood construction offers not only great consistency during the game, but also enhanced ball feel and comfort in the hand. The ITTF thick rubber that covers the paddle is ideal for competitions and makes the racket amazingly fast. Moreover, the flare handle of the paddle provides users with better balance.

This ping-pong racket comes with a premium carry pouch for storing the paddles safely and carrying it around for competitions. This is one of the best choices out there for players who wants to improve their skills with ping pong robots or during the practice with opponents and eventually play in a professional way, while also providing a great device to perform in tournaments. Many users raved about the excellent speed and power you get with this paddle, with some of the mentioning that you may need some time to get used to it, but in the end, you are certain to become a better player thanks to it.

What are its best features?

  • Lightweight
  • Impeccable speed and power
  • Budget friendly

What could be improved?

  • Handle may feel a bit short
8.

Thunderline 6 Star Premium Ping Pong PaddleBest Ping-Pong Paddle for Intermediate Players

Features
  • Speed: 88
  • Spin: 90
  • Control: 86
  • Construction: 7-ply wood
  • Rubber/sponge thickness: 2mm
  • Number of paddles: 1

Extra features: ITTF-approved rubber; long handle; comes in a carry pouch

A paddle that is suitable for players who are looking to elevate their game, the Thunderline 6 Star Premium Ping Pong Paddle offers good performance on a budget. The paddle and its rubber are fully ITTF approved, which means that you can use it in official competitions. The blade consists of seven layers of ply for extra stability and most of the users who tested it mentioned that this contributes to the performance of the paddle, giving it a good combination of speed, spin and control.

This high-quality ping-pong paddle comes with its own case that you can use for storing and transporting. Users were tested it like that you don’t need too much time to accommodate with the playing style this racket imposes on you, and that it is very easy to return the shots of opponents with a substantial amount of spin.

The Thunderline 6 Star Premium Ping Pong Paddle is created with beginner and intermediate players in mind, but it offers a good degree of comfort that you would expect from professional paddles. Users raved about the great control and spin of the paddle, with many of them mentioning that this paddle is worlds away from cheap store-bought ping pong paddles.

What are its best features?

  • Inexpensive
  • Good balance of speed and spin
  • Suitable for beginners and intermediate players

What could be improved?

  • A bit on the heavier side
Features
  • Speed: 90
  • Spin: 90
  • Control: 80
  • Construction: 9-ply wood
  • Rubber/sponge thickness: 2mm
  • Number of paddles: 1

Extra features: carbon flared-design blade; ITTF-approved rubber; comes in carry pouch

Our budgets pick is the Sportout ITTF Approved Table Tennis Paddle, an ITTF approved paddle that features an 8-ply carbon blade and 9-ply wood. This combination provides the paddle with a nice bounce as well as enough solidness to make you a powerful opponent whether you are attacking or defending.

Many of the players who tested this ping-pong paddle right near the numbing design of the flared handle that gives you a comfortable feeling as well as better power. Thanks to the use of DCC technology, you can rest assure that the rather one separate from the blade, which increases the durability of this table tennis racket. This is an ideal ping-pong paddle for intermediate players because it offers fast speed, fine control, as well as great spin. In some cases, this will also be a suitable choice for beginners, especially if you have some knowledge of the game.

The Sportout ITTF Approved Table Tennis Paddle comes with a carrying case to start and transported safely. The two rubbers are colored differently, one red and one black, and you get one paddle with two pieces of extra protective film in the package. Even though some users mentioned that this ping-pong table is slightly on the heavier side, they also reported that it is a very good choice for advanced beginners were starting to play intermediate games.

Why is it special?

  • Looks and feels professional
  • Rubbers firmly attached
  • Comfortable handle

What are the flaws?

  • Some users find it heavy

Things to Consider

With ping-pong being an entertaining sport that you can play both indoors and outdoors without the need of a truly amazing physical condition, there is no wonder there are millions of fans of this sport all over the world. The rules of the games are simple, which makes ping-pong again suitable for teenagers and adults alike. Play the game, you need a ping-pong or tennis table as well as a paddle. There are hundreds of ping-pong paddles available out there, but you need to keep in mind that a quality one can improve your game consistently. Below you’ll find a buying guide outlining all the essential information you need before purchasing a new ping-pong paddle.

Advantages of getting a great ping pong paddle

As mentioned above, it is important to opt for a high-quality ping-pong paddle, especially if you are serious about your game.  From the materials it is built from to how comfortable the handle feels in your hand, there are multiple features to take into account when it comes to choosing the right paddle. If the ping-pong paddle you decide to use is not a quality one, you may find that you can’t reach your desired speed during the game, both when playing offensively and defensively.

Features to consider when choosing a ping pong paddle

Top 9 Ping Pong Paddles for Enthusiasts and Pro-Level PlayersSome of the most important features to consider when shopping for a ping-pong paddle include the construction, the speed and control ratings, the dimensions and weight, the grip, as well as the level of skill it is suitable for. You should also pay attention to other details such as any accessories that might come with your paddle, such as a carrying case and ping-pong balls.

Speed, spin and control ratings

The speed and spin of a ping-pong table are some of the most important features to consider right when you start browsing through the selection of pedals available.  To find the right speed, spin and control ratings for your paddle, you need to determine your playing style and what you prioritize during the game. For example, if you tend to play balanced games, you need a paddle that features a balance of three factors, such as the STIGA Supreme paddle, whereas if you tend to attack more, you may need a paddle that brings you more speed and power.  Even though we might be tempted to buy the best paddle even though you are a beginner with the idea that you will get  to the desired level quickly, this is not recommended because an advanced paddle may actually make you play worse as a beginner, mostly because you won’t be able to control the shots as you should.

Many players have a moderately aggressive attack playing style, which means that they may need a paddle with slightly less power and speed but that offers them a bit more control.

Construction: blade, paddle, rubber and sponge layers

The main parts of the ping-pong paddle blade, paddle, rubber and sponge layers, and you should look at how each of these is constructed to make sure that the paddle is the right one for your playing style. Unlike in other sports, there is no official rule about the construction, size, shape, or weight of a ping-pong table, but you will find that the vast majority of the models available on the market are made of at least 85% natural wood and feature a rubber layer. The purpose of the rubble layer is to help you get a powerful strike as well as a good spin when you hit the ball. Even though some ping-pong paddles may have various types of rubber layers and even some extra layers for a more professional feeling, all models are lightweight to allow you to handle them with precision.

When purchasing a paddle, remember to look at the thickness of the rubber layer. Even though you want a paddle that is lightweight, you should also make sure that has an adequate level of rubber layer to ensure quality shot and help you make more spin.

Skill level

Top 9 Ping Pong Paddles for Enthusiasts and Pro-Level PlayersYou can find a selection of beginner, intermediate and advanced level ping-pong paddles on the market, and you should make sure that you purchase the one that is suitable for your present skill level. An inexpensive beginner paddle should be more than enough if you only play this game casually as a pastime with friends, but if you want to take part in competitions or have reached a level where a beginner’s paddle doesn’t seem to offer you all the features and speed you need, then an intermediate or advanced model would be a better choice – a great option is the STIGA Pro Carbon Performance-Level Table Tennis Racket. Advanced players may also need a paddle that is suitable for their playing style, with those who find themselves attacking a lot benefiting from a faster and heavier paddle. However, if you tend to play more defensively, you may want to purchase a paddle that is lighter and easier to control.

Dimensions & weight

Most ping pong paddles are lightweight, because players need them to remain comfortable even during long games. However, the dimensions and weight of the paddle may have an effect on the way you play.

Paddles that are heavier than average don’t offer good control of the paddle, but it shouldn’t be difficult to find a lightweight model for high performance and extra control.

Grip: shakehand vs. penhold

Top 9 Ping Pong Paddles for Enthusiasts and Pro-Level PlayersGrip is another essential factor to consider when buying a ping pong table. A correct grip is important not only for advanced players, but for beginners as well. The two main grips that you will encounter in ping pong are the shakehand and penhold grip, with the former being often preferred by most players. For a correct shakehand grip, your index should be placed on the backhand rubber while the thumb should be in the forehand side. This type of grip is generally preferred by Western players but has spread around the world as well over the years. On the other hand, the penhold grip is mostly popular in Asia and includes multiple variations, including the Japanese grip, Chinese grip and reverse backhand grip. For this grip, both the thumb and index finger are located at the front of the handle, with the remaining three fingers tucked behind the head of the paddle.

ITTF compliance

If you want to purchase a ping pong paddle that you can use in competitions, you should make sure it is ITTF compliant. The International Table Tennis Federation oversees all rules and regulations of the table tennis sport, and many competitions require you to have a paddle that complies with their regulations.

Accessories: carry case and ping pong balls

Top 9 Ping Pong Paddles for Enthusiasts and Pro-Level PlayersSome ping pong paddles come with extra accessories, such as a carry case and one or more ping pong balls. These sets are often a good choice for beginners to get them started on the right foot. For example, the JP WinLook Ping Pong Paddle Set includes 4 paddles and 8 ITTF-approved ping pong balls.

Tips

To keep your ping pong paddle in tip-top condition, you should try and clean it after every game. All you need is a bit of water and some kitchen paper. Take care only to use a small amount of water, as you want to avoid soaking the rubber. A deeper clean may be required from time to time to remove more stubborn grime from the rubbers, so you can use a specialized cleaning solution designed specifically for this type of paddle, which often includes a biological spray. When it’s not in use, you should store your paddle in its own case to avoid the rubbers collecting dust.

FAQ

You can replace the rubber of most ping pong paddles, but it is always a good idea to consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer. To change the rubber of a ping pong paddle, you will need a water-based glue intended for this type of rubber and an application sponge, together with a pair of scissors and a roller to press the rubber onto the blade.

This depends on the type of ping-pong paddle you have, as well as on how often you play. For example, the manufacturer of the DHS HURRICANE-II paddle we reviewed mentions that the rubber resists to up to 75 hours of hardcore playing.

The weight of the paddle depends on your playing style, but as a rule of thumb, a lighter paddle will offer better manipulation, which is the reason many manufacturers offer extra light blades.

Wrapping It Up

Whether you like to play ping pong in the basement with your friends and family or you take part in competitions, it’s important to choose the right paddle so that you can elevate your game to the next level. While there are numerous ping pong paddles on the market, it is essential to find the best one for your particular needs. Our best all-around choice, the STIGA Pro Carbon Performance-Level Table Tennis Racket is a good option for intermediate and pro players, because it offers a mix of brilliant design and high-quality materials that will definitely improve your game. If you’re looking for a paddle that is suitable for beginners and professionals alike and comes with its own carrying case, the DHS HURRICANE-II is a great choice. Finally, players who are interested in getting the best ping pong paddle under $100 may opt for the STIGA Supreme Performance-Level Table Tennis Racket, which is ITTF approved and offers professional like performance.

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