Table tennis is a very popular sport enjoyed by millions of people. In itself, the quality of the game directly depends on the inventory used. In this regard, the question of the competent choice of a good racket is very acute. Experienced players who are well versed in this sport know very well that they don’t buy professional models, but assemble them with their own hands — they buy bases, overlays separately, and they don’t always stick the same ones.
The range of such products in sports stores is very large, so it is quite easy for a novice player to get confused in such a variety. We decided to help our readers in solving this problem, the experts of our editorial staff have developed a rating of the best table tennis rackets. As part of this review, we will try to tell in as much detail as possible about the most popular models, which are preferred by experienced professionals, in addition, we gave some useful tips. They will certainly be useful to our readers when buying such products.
How to choose the right table tennis racket in 2022?
The key element of the racket is the base. According to current international rules, it can be of any size, weight and shape, but there is a key limitation — in terms of thickness, such an element must consist of 85% natural wood or more. In most cases, the base is made from various types of wood, which are glued together under pressure, often adding inserts from ylon or carbon.
Be sure to pay attention to the shape of the handle. It comes with a straight handle, anatomical or flared. The latter is usually called «dovetail». An important parameter will be the weight of the base. A heavier racket can deliver strong blows, but in this case the hand will quickly get tired. The light model is characterized by good control, but the center of gravity can shift towards the blade due to the pads used. The optimal weight starts from 80 -90 grams.
The type of lining also plays an important role in choosing a racket. Smooth are mostly used for aggressive and attacking play. Studded elements are designed to reduce incoming rotation, they have less grip on the ball. The speed of application depends on the thickness of the sponge. This indicator varies from 0.7 to 2.5 mm. On sale you can find products completely without a sponge. Such models are designed for a defensive style of play.
When we selected products to be included in the ranking of the best table tennis rackets, we took into account all the points presented here. In addition, we paid special attention to the ratio of price and quality of products, considered a lot of user reviews. We tried to include not the most expensive options in the review, so that each of our readers can choose the best products for themselves without significant damage to their budget.
Rating of the best table tennis rackets in 2022
10. DONIC-Schildkrot Carbotec 900
This model enjoys a truly resounding success among table tennis fans. It is produced using German technology exclusively from the highest quality materials. The base is 20% carbon fiber, which gives the structure additional hardness and strength. In addition, carbon is characterized by an insignificant mass, which has a positive effect on the speed of the game — even experienced players consider such a racket to be lightning fast. If we compare the design with a racket made of wood, then it will not only be harder, but also much more resistant to vibration.
In terms of key stats, this racquet scores high: 100 for speed, 100 for spin, and 80 for control. Judging by them, we have a universal model, which is accelerated a little to the detriment of control. The unique Schildkrot QRC system is involved here, due to which the lining can be changed in just a few seconds. The ergonomics of the handle is well thought out — the racket fits optimally in the hand.
Advantages:
- Provides very high game speed;
- Well resists all sorts of vibrations;
- Pretty comfortable grip
- Covers change in seconds.
Flaws:
- The pads begin to peel off quickly;
- Hands from the handle may sweat.
Tennis racket DONIC-Schildkrot Carbotec 900
9. Torneo Tour
We present you a model of a semi-professional type of domestic production. The design was developed specifically for players who know how to spin the ball and prefer an attacking style of play. For its full implementation, a special seven-layer base is provided, and a relatively small mass allows the tennis player to easily carry out even the most complex attacks.
The base is quite hard, with proper use of the capabilities of this racket, you will be able to quickly impose a lightning-fast game on your opponent and impose your own style. The racket has an optimal ratio of price and quality. It has high controllability, fits snugly in the palm of your hand, so you can quickly spin the ball. More experienced players specify that the rubber of the pads is a bit thin, so the knock of the ball on the plywood of the base is clearly audible. The product needs the most careful storage, since if this condition is not observed, the wood may begin to deform and delaminate.
Advantages:
- Very high levels of controllability;
- It is easy to carry out fast and complex attacks with such a racket;
- The ball spins easily.
Flaws:
- Requires compliance with certain storage conditions.
Tennis racket Torneo Tour
8. Atemi PRO 4000 CV
This racket is a professional product of Estonian production. The base is made from balsa — a special environmentally friendly and ultra-light wood. Outside, the products are processed with a limb, thanks to this material, the product allows you to achieve a high degree of control, provide excellent speed characteristics. The manufacturer says that the model, at its core, is a miniature catapult. A similar effect was achieved by installing an elastic sponge, the thickness of which is 2.2 mm, it springs significantly upon impact.
The racquet’s center of gravity is slightly off-center, which helps to spin the ball away and perform good top spins. A small cut can be found at the base of the handle. This is done in order to use the technique of the Chinese pen when performing twisting strikes — this moment will be quite relevant when conducting high-speed attacks.
Advantages:
- A wide variety of play styles can be used;
- High quality workmanship;
- Well-thought-out ergonomics of the handle;
- The optimal ratio of speed and control.
Flaws:
- Novice players will not be able to appreciate all the possibilities of this racket;
- It’s pretty expensive.
Tennis racket Atemi PRO 4000 CV
7. TORRES Profi 5
As experienced table tennis players note, this racket is one of the best in the professional class. With its help, you can achieve the execution of a variety of rotations, perform lightning strikes with increased power, produce top spins, quickly move through all areas of the table, and also change tactics. All this was achieved due to the presence of a seven-layer base made of gingko wood, the central layer is made from American linden. The pads are 2 mm thick and are sticky, so they can be replaced instantly if needed.
Professional players were able to appreciate the ability of the racket to have a direct impact on the degree of torsion and the speed of the ball. The manufacturer has well thought out the ergonomics of the handle — it fits comfortably in the hand, while the palm does not start to sweat. With such a racket, you can keep the ball under complete control, which is very important when choosing an aggressive and attacking style of play.
Advantages:
- Excellent workmanship;
- Universal model — suitable for any style of play;
- The ball will be under the control of the player at all times.
Flaws:
- Some users find the pads a bit harsh.
Tennis racket TORRES Profi 5
6. Atemi 300
This option is perfect for people who are just starting to master such a sport as table tennis. The cost of production is quite affordable, but the game characteristics are average: in all respects (speed, rotation, and so on), if we evaluate them on a hundred-point scale, they barely reach 50. For beginners, the most important thing is ball control and racket handling — with this, this models are ok. The player will learn how to correctly and efficiently receive and give serves, develop the technique of moving the hand.
Despite the low cost, this model compares favorably with most cheap options with its stylish appearance and decent production quality. The function of the base here is performed by five-layer plywood made from Scandinavian wood species. The role of the lining is played by a sponge, the thickness of which is 1.3 mm — this indicator is considered to be ideal for amateur players. Users note the simplicity and reliability of the model, but the edges of the handle are very sharp.
Advantages:
- Quite a nice design;
- High quality materials and excellent racket reliability;
- It is easy to keep the ball under constant control;
- Quite reasonable price for the product.
Flaws:
- The handle has sharp ribs.
Tennis racket Atemi 300
5. STIGA Clash Hobby
One of the cheapest rackets in our rating. It is made in Chinese factories. It is characterized by low rates of speed and rotation, but it has a quite decent level of control. This makes this model optimally suited for people who play table tennis at an amateur level. This design will be a good option for beginners, for whom it is important to constantly control the movement of the ball and practice their strokes.
The base is a five-ply plywood that combines Silver Poplar and American Basswood veneer. Users in their reviews note not only the low cost of products, but also talk about the quite decent quality of the product. The developers turned out the racket is quite light, it fits comfortably in the hand, with its help you can quickly work out the technique of the game.
Advantages:
- Small mass;
- The ball can be constantly kept under control;
- Comfortable handle, no sharp edges;
- Decent build quality
- Thoughtful ergonomics and attractive design.
Flaws:
- The center of gravity is shifted, so it will take a lot of time to establish the technique.
Tennis racket STIGA Clash Hobby
4. Torneo Champion
If a player needs a powerful and fairly fast racket, with which you can not only carry out successful attacks, but also go into a deaf defense, then this product will be a really great choice. The design is made by a domestic manufacturer. In terms of its key capabilities, in particular, speed characteristics, control and implementation of the rotation of the ball, it largely surpasses imported analogues.
The base material here is African acacia — such wood has an excellent level of strength and resistance to wear. Additional lightness and sensitivity of the ball is provided by the addition of graphite fibers, which also has a positive effect on the impact power. Rubbers are produced using the unique Spin-Speed technology. Thanks to it, the player can apply a variety of speed and rotation modes, depending on which game strategy he has chosen. The model fits perfectly in the hand, and for a significant acceleration of the ball there is no need to make additional efforts.
Advantages:
- Perfect for both amateurs and professionals;
- The racket is ideal for all styles of play;
- The base has increased strength;
- The size is suitable for both adults and children.
Flaws:
- With regular use, the pads wear out very quickly.
Tennis racket Torneo Champion
3. Donic Waldner 700
In third place in the review of the best table tennis rackets is the products of a well-known German company, although the manufacture and assembly of models takes place at Chinese enterprises. This is a universal model that is suitable not only for amateurs, but also for professionals. The base here is Tactic, which together with Vari Slick rubbers, whose thickness is 2 mm, allows you to achieve excellent rebound speed. Moreover, the racket leaves the controllability of the ball movement at a quite decent level.
The racket uses ABP technology, due to which the player can control the balance himself. This possibility is realized due to a cell with cavities that extends from the handle and a small weight. It can be shifted into one of the cavities, providing the desired location of the center of gravity, which allows you to adjust to both the defensive and attacking style of play.
Advantages:
- Long period of operation;
- Top quality workmanship;
- It is possible to adjust the balance to your playing style;
- At a very high level are the indicators of torsion and control.
Flaws:
- Some users find the price a bit high.
Tennis racket Donic Waldner 700
2. Cornilleau Tacteo 50
Manufactured from the highest quality composite materials. Such an approach to manufacturing makes it possible to ensure the highest possible strength of the model and make its resistance to negative environmental factors very high. This racket can be played even outdoors. Moreover, the manufacturer even allows it to be stored outdoors. The model has a handle that expands downwards, as well as a small mass — this allows the use of a racket by novice players and even children.
The creators of this model did a great job on the ergonomics of the device, besides, it does not require the player to have special skills or training. Even experienced athletes appreciate the porous pad, which will not allow air to accumulate, but at the same time will significantly increase the impact.
Advantages:
- Perfect for playing in any weather and at any time of the year;
- Very stylish design;
- Long period of operation;
- Suitable for both experienced athletes and beginners.
Flaws:
- The price is considered too high.
Tennis racket Cornilleau Tacteo 50
1. Butterfly Viscaria FL + Tenergy 05
The most expensive model that can only be found on sale today. It was developed by Japanese specialists exclusively for professional athletes. The weight of the model is ideal — only 90 grams, so you can hold it in your hands for a long time without feeling tired in your hands or fingers. The base was named «Viskaria», and with the help of such a racket, more than thirty athletes from around the world won world championship titles. The manufacturing company has its own research centers, due to the capabilities of which it is possible to achieve optimal quality characteristics.
The outer layers of the base are made of Koto, Limba and Kiri woods, between them there is a unique synthetic layer Arylate Carbon. Such a technological solution made it possible to completely get rid of vibration, to give very high power, tenacity and flexibility. The racket itself is characterized by a long period of operation. The ball will be given excellent spin, the player will keep his movement under complete control. The racket is considered a real benchmark for professional athletes.
Advantages:
- Very flexible and manoeuvrable model;
- It is easy to control even difficult balls;
- Complete absence of vibration;
- Long period of operation.
Flaws:
- Too high price.
Tennis racket Butterfly Viscaria FL + Tenergy 05
In conclusion, a useful video
Our ranking of the best table tennis rackets has come to an end. We hope that you managed to choose the most suitable model for yourself, which will delight you with stylish victories. If, however, you still have some questions regarding the capabilities of a particular model, then you can always ask them to our editors in the comments to this article. Our specialists will try to find additional information as soon as possible and present it to readers in the most accessible form.