The Best Ping Pong Paddles
A number of years ago, my family won a ping pong table in a raffle. Everyone in my family soon became obsessed with playing, and some of us even enrolled in ping pong classes (yes, people, you can take ping pong lessons). Needless to say, I have learned a thing or two about ping pong paddles and what makes or breaks a serve. Here, we've whittled down the options to the best of the best to help you find the perfect paddle.
Nibiru Sport 4-Player Paddle Set
Speed, spin, and control
This comprehensive set offers everything you could possibly need to ping some ping — minus the table, of course. It includes four racquets, eight balls, and a nifty little case to store the paddles in. We love that the case makes it so much easier to transport your kit when you’ll be playing away from home. The paddles themselves consist of five-layer wooden handles with a flared design, and the rubber padding is secured with premium glue to ensure it stays in place. For an all-in-one purchase, turn to Nibiru Sport.
Pros:
- The coloration of the layered wooden handles is beautiful
- Advanced-level players made want to invest in more premium paddles
- Sweat-resistant handles
Cons:
- Not the most durable paddles, but considering the price, that’s to be expected
Stiga Pro Carbon Performance-Level Ping Pong Paddle
A paddle for a pro
So your beginner days are finally behind you and you’re ready to take your training to the next level, huh? Well, the Stiga Pro Carbon paddle comes with a seven-ply, ultra-light blade; combine that with the 2-mm-thick sponge and S5 rubber, and you’ve got an ITTF-approved professional paddle. Thanks to the thick sponge, the Stiga Pro Carbon delivers outstanding speed and spin control. If you’re sick and tired of those beginner-to-intermediate paddles, it’s time to graduate and move to the big leagues.
Pros:
- An excellent choice for intermediate players looking to work on more advanced skills
- Features pro carbon technology that makes this 7-ply paddle extremely lightweight
- Designed to meet quality standards for ITTF so that you can use it during tournaments
Cons:
- Does not include a carrying case
- Not suitable for daily practice because the rubber can lose stickiness quickly
Franklin Sports Table Tennis Paddle Set
Keep it simple, silly
Franklin Sports is a family-owned business, so it’s no surprise that this set is perfect for families. To be clear, they don’t claim to be the best ping pong paddles out there, but they’re pretty decent nonetheless for practice and non-professional settings. Made of a five-ply wooden core and enforced with a rubber surface, these paddles will get the job done reliably. This set also comes with three ping pong balls, so you can get a volley going right out of the box. These paddles are great for beginners, children, and anyone who wants a bit of practice before they shoot for the stars.
Pros:
- Excellent price point for beginners and those looking for recreational ping pong paddles
- The blade does not vibrate or hurt your hand when the ball hits the paddle
- The five-ply wooden handles provide a comfortable and secure grip while playing
Cons:
- Not for competition or tournament play
- The pebbled rubber may wear off over time
Nibiru Sport Professional Ping Pong Paddle Set
Game, set, match
This professional paddle set has everything you need to get started for a bargain price. The paddles feature a flared handle and an anti-slip grip. Plus, the triple-sanded soft-touch rubber surface will provide you with perfect control and balance, so you can start practicing those intricate moves without worrying your paddle will slip off your hand. Unlike standard paddles, these have a 2 mm blue sponge that enhances the bounce and spin. And these paddles come with a peel-resistant rubber, so they’re built to last through all your practice games and competitions.
Pros:
- The paddles feature peel-resistant rubber that makes them last longer
- Made of five layers of high-quality, crack-resistant wood
- Each paddle features a sweat-resistant handle for optimal grip
- Set includes four paddles, six ping pong balls, a retractable net with posts, and a portable case for keeping everything organized
Cons:
- The net doesn’t fit all tables and won’t clasp on thicker tables than two inches
Killerspin Recreational Ping Pong Paddle
Start off strong
When you’re beginning to develop a new skill, having tools you can rely on is essential. For ping pong, the most important implement is, of course, your paddle. That’s why it makes sense for a beginner to invest in a good one. Rather than buying a cheap paddle that could fall apart or splinter within weeks, we recommend spending a bit more on a reliable paddle like this one. With its high-quality construction, this paddle is one you’ll want in your hand as you learn the sport.
Pros:
- Made well enough to last you all the way up to professional-level play
- Available in various colorways, all of which are visually striking
- Comes with a high-quality storage case
- Excellent cost value
Cons:
- PVC tape around the perimeter of the paddles may peel off over time
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good ping pong paddle?
When you’re looking to get the best ping paddle, you need a handle that suits your grip. As you’re holding the paddle, it needs to feel just right in your hands and give you enough space to hold it properly. Some people might need a shorter handle than others. So, it all depends on your hand size and the level of expertise you have. Beginners can pretty much get along with not having the perfect grip, while this might cost them the game for professionals.
Which is the best choice for beginners?
Beginners that are practicing the basics can use just about any paddle. However, if you plan to advance into higher-level play, make sure to pick a quality paddle with a balanced weight and a smooth spongey surface. That way, you won’t develop bad habits that could potentially create unnecessary obstacles down the line.
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