I got my TKO-CX last night and played a really fun 3 hour session with my friends. It's by far the best paddle I've ever used. It's just everything I've wanted. Huge power but still feels so good and controllable. Really good stability. I'm sooooo excited about this paddle.
Nice, thanks for sharing your experience. They are good, I’m going to keep the 14.3 in my bag for a bit and see if I want to switch to it. I’m on the hunt for a power type paddle that fits me and I’m considering that one.
I’ve been playing with a Ruby for almost 6 months now, seems that the pop and power is wearing down some. I’m stuck between the Tempest and Bantam, I played with a Tempest 14.3 and loved it. Should I take a chance and order the Bantam 14.3? I want more power but while keeping good control for sinking and resets.
I just played with the Bantam TKO-C 14.3mm for the first time yesterday. My previous paddle was the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Swift 16mm. Somewhat surprisingly, for the majority of the time, I adapted to the paddle. Most of my serves, drives, drops, dinks, lobs, and counterattacks have been precise. I noticed that compared to the previous paddle that I was using, there was perhaps 25% more power, pop, and spin. The pop being the aspect that surprised me the most. I can generate a lot of my own power, so having the 14.3mm helped me focus on quality topspin drives. Overall, amazing paddle 👍 I won 12 out of my 16 doubles games that I played yesterday against 3.5-4.5 DUPR players, again, considering it's my first day using this paddle, I'm pleased. Great job from Paddletek for creating a high quality paddle and Braydon for making a review that persuaded me to purchase this paddle.
Thanks for sharing your experience with the paddle and I'm glad it worked out for you! They are pretty unique and now that the Gen3 Joolas are banned I imagine a lot of players will switch to these.
My first “good” paddle was a TS-5 pro. I really liked that paddle and have owned several other Paddletek paddles. I’m a gear junkie and in the 8 years I’ve been playing I’m sure I’ve owned close to 3 dozen paddles I currently play ; Muvn Gruvn 13S, Electrum Pro Stealth, Komodo Katana, and Carbon 2X… not necessarily in that order! But several of my friends have the ALW-C 14.3 and after borrowing and playing it I purchased one. It has earned a spot in my rotation!
Maybe the power is coming from the Glass Epoxy layer under the Carbon top sheet. I have a Gen3 Joola Perseus 16mm and it feels hollow. I can’t decide if I like it or not. It feels inconsistent and one moment I love it one I dislike it. I do love the feel of my Mach 1 Forza 14mm. I have 3.5” of your Tungsten tape on the neck and up the sides and it makes it feel so solid. I’m tempted to send the Joola back to PBC and get the TKO-CX 12.7mm because I’m hearing nothing but good things. We seem to have similar tastes because I also love the Hurache, and since you are a fan of the Paddletek I’m sure I will be too.
I think you're right, the glass epoxy layer has to help with the power level. I do think the more consistent bounce of these which make them easier to control than the Joolas for the reason you pointed out where every once in a while a ball will float more than you think it should off the joola paddle where that doesn't happen with the Bantams. The Bantams give you what you expected after you make impact.
Just got a 12.7 TKO-CX 7.9oz. Do you think that paddle would go good with a SLYCE cap given the long handle/high balance point? Thank you for another amazing review!!
The tko c 14.3 is so good! Spot on review on the differences and feels between the two as i also tried the 12.7 but preferred the 14.3! Love that you can order them light at 7.8 oz then modify the weight how you like which is what I did. Added 4 grams total on the throat and about 3 to 4 grams wrapped around the bottom handle underneath the main grip then added an over grip, its an absolute weapon!
Hi, just curious did you add weight to the 12.7mm paddle or even the 14.3 and if so, where and how much, and how much did it affect it? I've been playing with the 12.7mm so far and just wondering if adding some would help and be more forgiving. 7.8 stock.
The Paddleteks have more power and pop though the Pursuits aren’t too far off. The Paddleteks are lighter and more maneuverable though the Pursuits have a softer, more pleasant and intuitive feel to them.
I have one more question. Did the 12.7 become manageable for soft game like dinking, resets, and drops? Did you eventually find yourself dialing in an becoming as consistent with it as you were with 14s or 16s?
Yes, I thought they did. That part of my game came much quicker than it did with the Gearbox and JOOLA power paddles though they are still power type paddles and require more skill in general to control well.
Did you find the sweet spot to be a bit smaller than expected and some dead spots, especially on off center hits and resets? I had minimal trouble adjusting to transition zone dinks and resets, but at the kitchen, my resets sucked!! Using the TKO-C 12.7…maybe just need more time to adjust? Thanks!
I play lots of two handed shots and thought the 5.3” of the C was good enough, though a little snug. If you have bigger hands then you’ll want the CX, otherwise, the C should work just fine.
Cut that 12.7 open and lets see how they are achieving that high TW, low SW and surprising power.😁 They must be using a significant amount of perimeter weighting and keeping lower on the head. The RPMs line up with their Gen1 construction.
How would the 12.7 compare to the CRBN 1x Thomas Wilson 12mm? I play with the CRBN currently but am in the market for something new. And I do love power.
It’s got more control than the CRBN 12mm fs, but it also feels more powerful when I needed it. To me it felt like the tko C would pocket the ball longer allowing me to put it where I want with it also launching off the paddle at Mach 3..All in all it’s effortless power with a great amount of control
I’m thinking about getting this paddle for my dad for Father’s Day. He’s been using the Selkirk Power Air Invitika shape for years. If I were to get him this, should I get him the 14 or the 12?
Get the 12. It’s more similar to the feel of the Power Air and closer in weight. It will be an easier transition and he’ll like the bump in spin potential, forgiveness, and power.
I like them both more with some added weight. Though the sweet spots are good for how thin they are, I do think they still benefit with some tungsten tape.
@@pickleballeffect I’ve been using the invekta for over a year now. I’d like to try similar paddle but with more power. I didn’t like the gearbox pro. Hopefully I will like this one.
Is there any reason to believe these would be elbow friendly paddles. I know their are many components to tennis elbow but ProKennex has made a mark but their paddles are getting a bit dated. Thanks for your excellent review and database.
That's tough to say. I don't imagine the 12.7 being arm friendly since it has a harder feel and more feedback or vibration to it but the 14.3 might help some. It's not too heavy and the easy power and pop would make it so you don't have to overswing to generate the power you want which could take some pressure off your arm and elbow. That's just speculation, though, I can't say for certain.
Liked. Do have a question. How do you know that they are MORE durable than other power paddles? They have not been out long enough - or have they been? Thanks.
The basic construction of the paddle is using a method called cold press which is basically making the paddle like a sandwich. You glue the facing layers to the core and then wrap an edgeguard around it. There’s no heat or anything involved. Paddles have been made this way for a long time and have a history of holding together well and don’t have a precedence of having core crush or delamination issues. In fact, all paddles were made this way until thermoforming was introduced late 2022. Thermoforming essentially uses an oven to add a carbon fiber seam around the edge of the paddle to connect the two sides. This process uses heat which weakens the polymer or plastic core and makes the paddles susceptible to core crush and delamination. Then with the new gen 3 style paddles that incorporate foam in the core were starting to see other quality control issues. Because these Paddleteks use a cold press style build they aren’t susceptible to the challenges thermoformed paddles and the newer gen 3 style paddles deal or are dealing with. Thus, the increased durability.
@@pickleballeffect Fantastic! Thank you! You definitely earned a like. I did email Paddletek this week to ask what is NOT covered under their lifetime warranty. Their reply gave an example of that they did cover - edge guard coming loose. No mention of whether they covered core crushing, delamination, paddle breaking, or carbon face cracking under NORMAL play. If it covers only edge guard, then that's not much of a lifetime warranty. I wonder if you know their policies. Thanks again.
They are definitely making a few bucks on these. No question about that. But regardless, they are still more durable than the other high tech big power paddles so it seems more with the price and they have a good limited lifetime warranty.
Just my opinion or guess- they are probably a little more expensive to make as they are made in the US using a core created in the US. The cost and labor used in China is much cheaper, which is why most things are made in China. Again, totally guessing and could be wrong, but that is what I think.
Just ordered a 12.7 TKO-C, currently use a CRBN 1X 14MM. Any feedback on how they compare to each other? I feel like my CRBN is pretty head light overall even with .5 grams of lead tape on the throat and I have really quick hands with it. Was mainly wondering if hand speed will be similar because I am able to control the CRBN really well, thanks for a great review!
The 12.7 actually has a little lighter average swingweight than the crbn 1x 14 but hits harder than the crbn. If you can manage the 1x 14 well then I think you’d be able to transition and manage the 12.7 too if you’re looking for more offensive ability in your paddle.
Yes, the 12.3 was 118 and my 14.3 was 126 though I got a heavy one and I’d guess the average is closer to 122. You can check the swingweights for other Paddletek paddles here, pickleballeffect.com/pickleball-paddle-database/
@@pickleballeffect JEEZ!! 126 is huge! I think in the review you said they were “a little more head heavy”. lol. That might have been an important stat to include even if yours is heavier than average.
@@JflipJediyeah, you’re right. Others that have the paddle got much lower swingweights than mine so I was going on the average but even still the Swingweight jump on the 14.3 CX is bigger than the jump on the 12.7. I can at least clarify that in my written review.
Did you notice any drastic size difference in the sweet spots between the C and the CX versions? Thanks! I really love your content, it’s always high-quality and genuine.
Bigger power and pop than the AZUL. The AZUL is a touch more forgiving than the 14.3 but not much. The AZUL was easier to control but didn’t have the big put away power that these have. Similar maneuverability.
The ALW-C doesn’t hit as hard though I think that’s partly because they are super lightweight and much lighter compared to the tko versions. The 14.3 hits about as hard as your typical thermo while the 12.7 has a unique combo of decent power and being super lightweight.
The Paddleteks have more power athough the Pursuits aren’t too far off. The Paddleteks are lighter and more maneuverable though the Pursuits have a softer, more pleasant and intuitive feel to them.
The Vanguard Control paddles are very soft and control oriented which is the opposite end of the spectrum compared to these while the the Hurache has some similar qualities compared to the 14.3 model. The feel of the 14.3 is similar to the Hurache X but the 14.3 is a little more hollow, the balance of the two paddles is very similar, and the 14.3 model does have more power and pop.
Braydon, when you are hitting with the paddle, we would like to hear it, but you reduce the volume to zero as you are narrating. The sound a paddle makes is very important in a review. Could you consider either bumping up the volume of the play session (while still hearing the narration), or maybe not talk for a few seconds so we have just the sound of the paddle? Thanks
Sounds like they will not core crush but it does not sound like the resin texture on the surface is any more durable than any other peel ply resin faced paddle. $260 for a paddle that will lose spin a little every game and not keep spin longer than a $100 paddle?
Braden, I found more power in the 16mm Volair M2F than the M2F14. I have the ALW-C 14 and it doesn’t hit as hard either. Which one of these new ones should I try? Any way to demo these paddles aren’t cheap.
Yeah, from the baseline the M2F 16 gives you more power over the 14 so you’re spot on there. The power of the two Paddleteks was pretty similar from the baseline though the 12.7 was poppier on counters and shorter swings. The 14mm of the tko-c is more powerful than the alw-c for sure. The elongated shape and increased swingweight helped a lot there. I’d recommend the 14mm version if you’re coming from the M2F, you’ll notice a nice power bump from that without giving up too much forgiveness. If you purchase through pickleball central they have a 30 day return policy and you just have to pay the return shipping which is pretty cheap if you think of it like a demo program.
Hi, I bought one of these using your code. How would you compare the feel/power of the 12.7 mm to that of the Black Diamond Power? I bought a Joola Gen 3 but to be honest I don't think I'm a big fan. Thier customer service is also very bad. Through my negative experience with them I won't ever buy another Joola brand paddle. This purchase was my first with them.
Nice, thanks for using my code! The 12.7 is going to give you more power than the BD and have a little firmer feel to it. It plays inbetween the Joola you just had and the BD. And thanks for sharing your experience with Joola, that’s too bad it was negative, hopefully they can get that stuff figured out because that’s just as important as the product.
Nice review as usual! Can you review the spartus apollo as well? I know you like the volair mach 2 forza and seems like a good paddle to compare. Oh also the j2k looking good also
I just got those last week and am interested in them too. At the very least I'll write something about them in my gear forum here: pickleballeffect.com/pickleball-effect-gear-forum/?wtp=braydons-pb-effect-paddle-updates-959438
Great review 👍 I ordered the Paddletek Bantam TKO-C 14.3mm because of it's ability to be a "controlled power paddle" which matches my single-handed hybrid playstyle. Hybrid meaning doing powerful serves, drives, counterattacks, and speed-ups, but also helpful when I do my drop-shots, resets, lobs, and dinks. I do have a question though.. How much less power, pop, and spin would you say this paddle gives compared to the Joola Gen3s and the Gearbox PPs in terms of %? For example: Comparing the Paddletek TKO-C 14.3mm to a Joola Perseus/Magnus Gen3 16mm.
Also curious as I typically play with 16mm Joola, but I do want more pop/power from my paddle. After reading reviews I think I should have maybe ordered the 12.7mm vs the 14.3mm.
@the_real_deal The TKO-C 14.3mm worked really well for me. It took about a week to get used to it. The "controlled power" balance is there. I will say that the only con to this paddle is any "off-hit" shots that's not hit close to the sweet spot (imagine the sweet spot being within 3 inches radius of the center of the paddle) the power will significantly drop. That's why proper technique and training is required to bring out the best of this paddle. It definitely thrives in 4.0+ players' hands for sure and can bring anyone to 5.0+ if they're really good at Pickleball.
@@DeeTeeHawaii Thanks for the feedback. I'm 4.8 roughly but have only mained the pursuit engage mx 6.0. not even the pro or pro1. Lol. I tried the mx 6.0 pro but honestly has less power/pop than the old one . Really looking for at least equal pop/power with more control than this engage with graphite face and low spin it has right now. Have to think this shorter handle of the paddletek C helps with control similar to engage ex line. Plus 14.3 mm instead of 12.7 add a little more dwell. What was it that you had to get used to??
I've been playing with the Volair Mach 2 Forza 14 for the past few months but am on the hunt for something with more power right now and I'm not sure which paddle I'm going to change to yet.
Excellent review. Watching and learning a lot from your site and channel. I'm shopping for a new paddle. Q: How would you compare the 1) Bantam TKO 12.7mm to the 2) DBD 14mm, 3) Flash 14mm, and 4) Neonic Force for power, control, durability, and versatility?
The Bantam is the highest for power while the Neonic is the lowest in that group. The DBD and Flash 14s are very similar and are the most versatile of those while the Neonic is probably the easiest to control.
My spin numbers are generally lower than what Kew and Olson get so anything in the 1900s is solid for me though you’re right, low 1900s is nothing spectacular.
I usually try to average between the three of you guys for spin. Current main go to is the Pickleball Apes Proline Energy. I was looking for a little more power with the same spin potential. Just turned 50. Middle aged men have to consider age related factors when choosing paddles.
Am I missing something? Who says that the Gen 1 paddles last longer than Gen 2 or 3? Yes, there were problems with the initial batches of thermoformed, but I have played for an entire year with my Double Black Diamond, and it performs like new. Gen 1 paddles wear out just like any other. I'm not sure how PaddleTek can make this claim. (Edit: just saw some of the news on Gen 3 core crushing. That's too bad. But it doesn't change the fact that Gen 2 paddles are lasting plenty long.)
The CX is closer to the swingweight of the Ruby but has a longer handle than the Ruby. The C is closer in swingweight to the BD and has a similar handle length as the BD & Ruby. If you liked the balance of your Ruby then go with the CX but if you liked the balance of your BD more then go with the C.
I got my TKO-CX last night and played a really fun 3 hour session with my friends. It's by far the best paddle I've ever used. It's just everything I've wanted. Huge power but still feels so good and controllable. Really good stability. I'm sooooo excited about this paddle.
Nice, thanks for sharing your experience. They are good, I’m going to keep the 14.3 in my bag for a bit and see if I want to switch to it. I’m on the hunt for a power type paddle that fits me and I’m considering that one.
@@pickleballeffectyou doing the 14.3 CX?
@@pickleballeffect I actually have the 12.77mm
@@scottfrancis13no, I preferred the 5.3 inch handle. It had a lower swingweight and still felt comfortable for two handed shots for me.
They offer a number of different paddle weights from 7.8 to 8.3 did you prefer the light or heavy or something in the middle?
I’ve been playing with a Ruby for almost 6 months now, seems that the pop and power is wearing down some. I’m stuck between the Tempest and Bantam, I played with a Tempest 14.3 and loved it. Should I take a chance and order the Bantam 14.3? I want more power but while keeping good control for sinking and resets.
I just played with the Bantam TKO-C 14.3mm for the first time yesterday. My previous paddle was the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Swift 16mm.
Somewhat surprisingly, for the majority of the time, I adapted to the paddle. Most of my serves, drives, drops, dinks, lobs, and counterattacks have been precise.
I noticed that compared to the previous paddle that I was using, there was perhaps 25% more power, pop, and spin.
The pop being the aspect that surprised me the most. I can generate a lot of my own power, so having the 14.3mm helped me focus on quality topspin drives.
Overall, amazing paddle 👍 I won 12 out of my 16 doubles games that I played yesterday against 3.5-4.5 DUPR players, again, considering it's my first day using this paddle, I'm pleased.
Great job from Paddletek for creating a high quality paddle and Braydon for making a review that persuaded me to purchase this paddle.
Thanks for sharing your experience with the paddle and I'm glad it worked out for you! They are pretty unique and now that the Gen3 Joolas are banned I imagine a lot of players will switch to these.
My first “good” paddle was a TS-5 pro. I really liked that paddle and have owned several other Paddletek paddles.
I’m a gear junkie and in the 8 years I’ve been playing I’m sure I’ve owned close to 3 dozen paddles
I currently play ; Muvn Gruvn 13S, Electrum Pro Stealth, Komodo Katana, and Carbon 2X… not necessarily in that order! But several of my friends have the ALW-C 14.3 and after borrowing and playing it I purchased one. It has earned a spot in my rotation!
Nice, thanks for sharing your experience. It's good to hear other opinions.
Maybe the power is coming from the Glass Epoxy layer under the Carbon top sheet. I have a Gen3 Joola Perseus 16mm and it feels hollow. I can’t decide if I like it or not. It feels inconsistent and one moment I love it one I dislike it. I do love the feel of my Mach 1 Forza 14mm. I have 3.5” of your Tungsten tape on the neck and up the sides and it makes it feel so solid. I’m tempted to send the Joola back to PBC and get the TKO-CX 12.7mm because I’m hearing nothing but good things. We seem to have similar tastes because I also love the Hurache, and since you are a fan of the Paddletek I’m sure I will be too.
I think you're right, the glass epoxy layer has to help with the power level. I do think the more consistent bounce of these which make them easier to control than the Joolas for the reason you pointed out where every once in a while a ball will float more than you think it should off the joola paddle where that doesn't happen with the Bantams. The Bantams give you what you expected after you make impact.
Just got a 12.7 TKO-CX 7.9oz. Do you think that paddle would go good with a SLYCE cap given the long handle/high balance point? Thank you for another amazing review!!
The tko c 14.3 is so good! Spot on review on the differences and feels between the two as i also tried the 12.7 but preferred the 14.3! Love that you can order them light at 7.8 oz then modify the weight how you like which is what I did. Added 4 grams total on the throat and about 3 to 4 grams wrapped around the bottom handle underneath the main grip then added an over grip, its an absolute weapon!
Hi, just curious did you add weight to the 12.7mm paddle or even the 14.3 and if so, where and how much, and how much did it affect it? I've been playing with the 12.7mm so far and just wondering if adding some would help and be more forgiving. 7.8 stock.
Yes, I added three grams of weight at 4 and 8 o’clock and it did help the sweet spot.
How did that affect the swing weight?
Whats your lead set up for your 14.4 tko-c? Also what is your main paddle right now?
thanks for great review, just wondering about how does this compare to hurache X control + and ruby. thank you.
Hi, how much tungsten weight do you have on the side of 12mm tko-c model? What did it bring the twistweight and swingweight to?
How do these compare to the Engage paddles in your opinion?
The Paddleteks have more power and pop though the Pursuits aren’t too far off. The Paddleteks are lighter and more maneuverable though the Pursuits have a softer, more pleasant and intuitive feel to them.
How do you feel these compare to the ALW-C? Same power?
I have one more question. Did the 12.7 become manageable for soft game like dinking, resets, and drops? Did you eventually find yourself dialing in an becoming as consistent with it as you were with 14s or 16s?
Yes, I thought they did. That part of my game came much quicker than it did with the Gearbox and JOOLA power paddles though they are still power type paddles and require more skill in general to control well.
@@pickleballeffect Very helpful response. Thank you.
Did you find the sweet spot to be a bit smaller than expected and some dead spots, especially on off center hits and resets? I had minimal trouble adjusting to transition zone dinks and resets, but at the kitchen, my resets sucked!! Using the TKO-C 12.7…maybe just need more time to adjust? Thanks!
I realized the same, lot of dead spots in the corners. Sweet spot is good but dead spots are almost same as well. Resets r tough
Is the regular TKO-C enough length on the grip for a two handed back, or would I want the X for that?
I play lots of two handed shots and thought the 5.3” of the C was good enough, though a little snug. If you have bigger hands then you’ll want the CX, otherwise, the C should work just fine.
Cut that 12.7 open and lets see how they are achieving that high TW, low SW and surprising power.😁
They must be using a significant amount of perimeter weighting and keeping lower on the head. The RPMs line up with their Gen1 construction.
I might, I’m very interested to see if they intentionally distributed the weight or if that’s just how they happen to be.
How would the 12.7 compare to the CRBN 1x Thomas Wilson 12mm? I play with the CRBN currently but am in the market for something new. And I do love power.
It’s got more control than the CRBN 12mm fs, but it also feels more powerful when I needed it. To me it felt like the tko C would pocket the ball longer allowing me to put it where I want with it also launching off the paddle at Mach 3..All in all it’s effortless power with a great amount of control
I’m thinking about getting this paddle for my dad for Father’s Day. He’s been using the Selkirk Power Air Invitika shape for years. If I were to get him this, should I get him the 14 or the 12?
Get the 12. It’s more similar to the feel of the Power Air and closer in weight. It will be an easier transition and he’ll like the bump in spin potential, forgiveness, and power.
Do you like it with or without lead \ tungston tape?
Wondering if stock would make it easier for drops and resets
I like them both more with some added weight. Though the sweet spots are good for how thin they are, I do think they still benefit with some tungsten tape.
Hi, how is this paddle compared to Selkirk invekta power air? Thank you
More power, pop, spin, and more forgiving. Pretty much just more all around ha.
@@pickleballeffect I’ve been using the invekta for over a year now. I’d like to try similar paddle but with more power. I didn’t like the gearbox pro. Hopefully I will like this one.
I think one will do the trick
Is there any reason to believe these would be elbow friendly paddles. I know their are many components to tennis elbow but ProKennex has made a mark but their paddles are getting a bit dated. Thanks for your excellent review and database.
That's tough to say. I don't imagine the 12.7 being arm friendly since it has a harder feel and more feedback or vibration to it but the 14.3 might help some. It's not too heavy and the easy power and pop would make it so you don't have to overswing to generate the power you want which could take some pressure off your arm and elbow. That's just speculation, though, I can't say for certain.
@@pickleballeffect What would you estimate the "arm friendly" being with a Hesacore type grip on the 12.7?
Liked. Do have a question. How do you know that they are MORE durable than other power paddles? They have not been out long enough - or have they been? Thanks.
The basic construction of the paddle is using a method called cold press which is basically making the paddle like a sandwich. You glue the facing layers to the core and then wrap an edgeguard around it. There’s no heat or anything involved. Paddles have been made this way for a long time and have a history of holding together well and don’t have a precedence of having core crush or delamination issues. In fact, all paddles were made this way until thermoforming was introduced late 2022. Thermoforming essentially uses an oven to add a carbon fiber seam around the edge of the paddle to connect the two sides. This process uses heat which weakens the polymer or plastic core and makes the paddles susceptible to core crush and delamination. Then with the new gen 3 style paddles that incorporate foam in the core were starting to see other quality control issues. Because these Paddleteks use a cold press style build they aren’t susceptible to the challenges thermoformed paddles and the newer gen 3 style paddles deal or are dealing with. Thus, the increased durability.
@@pickleballeffect Fantastic! Thank you! You definitely earned a like. I did email Paddletek this week to ask what is NOT covered under their lifetime warranty. Their reply gave an example of that they did cover - edge guard coming loose. No mention of whether they covered core crushing, delamination, paddle breaking, or carbon face cracking under NORMAL play. If it covers only edge guard, then that's not much of a lifetime warranty. I wonder if you know their policies. Thanks again.
I am curious why, since they are so simple, they are so expensive?
They are definitely making a few bucks on these. No question about that. But regardless, they are still more durable than the other high tech big power paddles so it seems more with the price and they have a good limited lifetime warranty.
To pay Anna-Leigh Waters. And Made in the USA, lifetime warranty comes art a price to the consumer.
Just my opinion or guess- they are probably a little more expensive to make as they are made in the US using a core created in the US. The cost and labor used in China is much cheaper, which is why most things are made in China. Again, totally guessing and could be wrong, but that is what I think.
@@KaiHills-xf7ix My Reign and Win 16mm is my favorite of my many paddles, it was made in the US, and cost under $150
Does this paddle feel plush or stiff when blocking and hitting?
Just ordered a 12.7 TKO-C, currently use a CRBN 1X 14MM. Any feedback on how they compare to each other? I feel like my CRBN is pretty head light overall even with .5 grams of lead tape on the throat and I have really quick hands with it. Was mainly wondering if hand speed will be similar because I am able to control the CRBN really well, thanks for a great review!
The 12.7 actually has a little lighter average swingweight than the crbn 1x 14 but hits harder than the crbn. If you can manage the 1x 14 well then I think you’d be able to transition and manage the 12.7 too if you’re looking for more offensive ability in your paddle.
@@pickleballeffect perfect, thank you for the reply!
Thanks for the review :) Do you have the swing weights for the CX models?
Yes, the 12.3 was 118 and my 14.3 was 126 though I got a heavy one and I’d guess the average is closer to 122. You can check the swingweights for other Paddletek paddles here, pickleballeffect.com/pickleball-paddle-database/
@@pickleballeffect JEEZ!! 126 is huge! I think in the review you said they were “a little more head heavy”. lol. That might have been an important stat to include even if yours is heavier than average.
@@JflipJediyeah, you’re right. Others that have the paddle got much lower swingweights than mine so I was going on the average but even still the Swingweight jump on the 14.3 CX is bigger than the jump on the 12.7. I can at least clarify that in my written review.
Did you notice any drastic size difference in the sweet spots between the C and the CX versions?
Thanks! I really love your content, it’s always high-quality and genuine.
No, couldn't really tell a difference sweet spot wise though you can tell the CX versions felt a little heavier.
How Do they compare to the thrive azul?
Bigger power and pop than the AZUL. The AZUL is a touch more forgiving than the 14.3 but not much. The AZUL was easier to control but didn’t have the big put away power that these have. Similar maneuverability.
@@pickleballeffect. Thanks. Looking for a power paddle an arthritic bone spur in shoulder has made it hard to generate my power
Bread and Butter has released a titanium face paddle. Will you be reviewing at some point?
Yes! It’s in the mail, should get here Tuesday.
Great. Cant wait for your take on it @@pickleballeffect
Any thoughts how these compare to ALW? Same with a shorter handle?
The ALW-C doesn’t hit as hard though I think that’s partly because they are super lightweight and much lighter compared to the tko versions. The 14.3 hits about as hard as your typical thermo while the 12.7 has a unique combo of decent power and being super lightweight.
Also curious to know how these compare to the Engage Pursuit Pro MX and MX 6.0?
The Paddleteks have more power athough the Pursuits aren’t too far off. The Paddleteks are lighter and more maneuverable though the Pursuits have a softer, more pleasant and intuitive feel to them.
How would you compare this to Huarache X or Selkirk Vanguard Control
The Vanguard Control paddles are very soft and control oriented which is the opposite end of the spectrum compared to these while the the Hurache has some similar qualities compared to the 14.3 model. The feel of the 14.3 is similar to the Hurache X but the 14.3 is a little more hollow, the balance of the two paddles is very similar, and the 14.3 model does have more power and pop.
The real question is do they pair well with Pickleball Effect Edge Guard Tape.
Oh man, I don't have real good color for these ones ha but my purple overgrip looks nice on the white and purple colorway amzn.to/4dEoPvE
Braydon, when you are hitting with the paddle, we would like to hear it, but you reduce the volume to zero as you are narrating. The sound a paddle makes is very important in a review. Could you consider either bumping up the volume of the play session (while still hearing the narration), or maybe not talk for a few seconds so we have just the sound of the paddle? Thanks
Yeah, I can do that. Thanks for the comment.
Heard the CX has been dropped from the USA Pickleball approval list because of the lead fishing weights adding momentum.
That’s not true, it was just the Joola’s.
@@braydonunsicker2767 Just checked the list again the TKO-TC has been pulled….
You're right, I don't see them their either. I must of been wrong. Lots of misinformation seems to floating around about that.
@@pickleballeffect CX Back on the list.
You planning on reviewing the J2K or Kevlar Hurache?
Yes, I have just got those and do plan on putting something together for them.
Sounds like they will not core crush but it does not sound like the resin texture on the surface is any more durable than any other peel ply resin faced paddle. $260 for a paddle that will lose spin a little every game and not keep spin longer than a $100 paddle?
Right, the texture is susceptible to the same wear and tear as other paddles. It’s just the core that’s more durable.
This vs CRBN 3X? Coming from Joola Gen 3
I'd go with the Paddletek. Assuming you like how the JOOLA Gen 3 plays then you'd like the Paddletek more and the 3X would feel a bit dead to you.
Braden, I found more power in the 16mm Volair M2F than the M2F14. I have the ALW-C 14 and it doesn’t hit as hard either.
Which one of these new ones should I try? Any way to demo these paddles aren’t cheap.
Yeah, from the baseline the M2F 16 gives you more power over the 14 so you’re spot on there. The power of the two Paddleteks was pretty similar from the baseline though the 12.7 was poppier on counters and shorter swings. The 14mm of the tko-c is more powerful than the alw-c for sure. The elongated shape and increased swingweight helped a lot there. I’d recommend the 14mm version if you’re coming from the M2F, you’ll notice a nice power bump from that without giving up too much forgiveness. If you purchase through pickleball central they have a 30 day return policy and you just have to pay the return shipping which is pretty cheap if you think of it like a demo program.
Hi, I bought one of these using your code. How would you compare the feel/power of the 12.7 mm to that of the Black Diamond Power?
I bought a Joola Gen 3 but to be honest I don't think I'm a big fan. Thier customer service is also very bad. Through my negative experience with them I won't ever buy another Joola brand paddle. This purchase was my first with them.
Nice, thanks for using my code! The 12.7 is going to give you more power than the BD and have a little firmer feel to it. It plays inbetween the Joola you just had and the BD. And thanks for sharing your experience with Joola, that’s too bad it was negative, hopefully they can get that stuff figured out because that’s just as important as the product.
What is your tape setup for these two?
I ended up liking 4 inches of my half gram per inch tungsten tape on the sides.
How much tungsten did you put on the 14.3?
I added three inches of my half gram tungsten tape on each side so 1.5 grams per side.
@@pickleballeffect thank you.
Nice review as usual! Can you review the spartus apollo as well? I know you like the volair mach 2 forza and seems like a good paddle to compare. Oh also the j2k looking good also
I just got those last week and am interested in them too. At the very least I'll write something about them in my gear forum here: pickleballeffect.com/pickleball-effect-gear-forum/?wtp=braydons-pb-effect-paddle-updates-959438
I would be interested to compare these to the CRBN 1X 12mm...
That's one of the few paddles I don't have so I can't speak to that one for you. Sorry :/
Great review 👍 I ordered the Paddletek Bantam TKO-C 14.3mm because of it's ability to be a "controlled power paddle" which matches my single-handed hybrid playstyle.
Hybrid meaning doing powerful serves, drives, counterattacks, and speed-ups, but also helpful when I do my drop-shots, resets, lobs, and dinks.
I do have a question though.. How much less power, pop, and spin would you say this paddle gives compared to the Joola Gen3s and the Gearbox PPs in terms of %?
For example: Comparing the Paddletek TKO-C 14.3mm to a Joola Perseus/Magnus Gen3 16mm.
Also curious as I typically play with 16mm Joola, but I do want more pop/power from my paddle. After reading reviews I think I should have maybe ordered the 12.7mm vs the 14.3mm.
@@DeeTeeHawaii curious how did the 14.3 work for you? I'm thinking of buying it for similar reasons you listed here 6 months ago. You still like it???
@the_real_deal The TKO-C 14.3mm worked really well for me. It took about a week to get used to it. The "controlled power" balance is there. I will say that the only con to this paddle is any "off-hit" shots that's not hit close to the sweet spot (imagine the sweet spot being within 3 inches radius of the center of the paddle) the power will significantly drop.
That's why proper technique and training is required to bring out the best of this paddle.
It definitely thrives in 4.0+ players' hands for sure and can bring anyone to 5.0+ if they're really good at Pickleball.
@@DeeTeeHawaii Thanks for the feedback. I'm 4.8 roughly but have only mained the pursuit engage mx 6.0. not even the pro or pro1. Lol. I tried the mx 6.0 pro but honestly has less power/pop than the old one . Really looking for at least equal pop/power with more control than this engage with graphite face and low spin it has right now. Have to think this shorter handle of the paddletek C helps with control similar to engage ex line. Plus 14.3 mm instead of 12.7 add a little more dwell. What was it that you had to get used to??
Which paddle does alw use?
Bantam ALW-C...it's basically the 12.7mm ones in this video but in a standard shape and even shorter handle.
and they’re made in the USA!!!
What paddle do you use
I've been playing with the Volair Mach 2 Forza 14 for the past few months but am on the hunt for something with more power right now and I'm not sure which paddle I'm going to change to yet.
do you like the Gen 3 Anna Bright Scorpeus ? Everyone seems to be wanting it.@@pickleballeffect
Excellent review. Watching and learning a lot from your site and channel. I'm shopping for a new paddle. Q: How would you compare the 1) Bantam TKO 12.7mm to the 2) DBD 14mm, 3) Flash 14mm, and 4) Neonic Force for power, control, durability, and versatility?
The Bantam is the highest for power while the Neonic is the lowest in that group. The DBD and Flash 14s are very similar and are the most versatile of those while the Neonic is probably the easiest to control.
Thanks for the reply. Appreciate the help.
Was that Morgan on the court with you in that TFP clip?
Yes ha got a few clips of me smacking it at him lol
@@pickleballeffect hahahaha I’ll be sure to bring that up if I see him tomorrow lol
Great review!
Lower 1900 rpm on a $200+ paddle seems less than ideal
My spin numbers are generally lower than what Kew and Olson get so anything in the 1900s is solid for me though you’re right, low 1900s is nothing spectacular.
I usually try to average between the three of you guys for spin. Current main go to is the Pickleball Apes Proline Energy. I was looking for a little more power with the same spin potential. Just turned 50. Middle aged men have to consider age related factors when choosing paddles.
One problem, they snap at the neck.
Am I missing something? Who says that the Gen 1 paddles last longer than Gen 2 or 3? Yes, there were problems with the initial batches of thermoformed, but I have played for an entire year with my Double Black Diamond, and it performs like new.
Gen 1 paddles wear out just like any other. I'm not sure how PaddleTek can make this claim.
(Edit: just saw some of the news on Gen 3 core crushing. That's too bad. But it doesn't change the fact that Gen 2 paddles are lasting plenty long.)
You're a good player
Thank you :)
@@pickleballeffect youre 5.0 not 4.8 but videos put you at 3.5 at best ;)
@@jordankelly1782 that sounds about right ha
Made in the U.S. :)
Lol! You keep saying TOK-C.
I know ha especially there towards the end of the paddle description section. Maybe I shouldn’t record at 11pm lol.
@@pickleballeffect lol! It’s all good. Gotta do what you gotta do. Plus I’m sure we all knew what you meant.
If he say’s “TOK-Cs” ONE MORE TIME🤬😤👿
TOK-C 😅 it bugged me too when I noticed that after I recorded it ha but it was late and I didn’t want to redue it.
@@pickleballeffect ewwwww
I’m coming from a Black Diamond & Ruby. Which version of the the 12.7 do you recommend? TKO-CX or C?
The CX is closer to the swingweight of the Ruby but has a longer handle than the Ruby. The C is closer in swingweight to the BD and has a similar handle length as the BD & Ruby. If you liked the balance of your Ruby then go with the CX but if you liked the balance of your BD more then go with the C.
@@pickleballeffectthis is very helpful. Thank you!