The technology of tennis ball machines has evolved over the past years to offer customized exercises and individual drills through smartphones. Whether you want to work on your serve, forehand, backhand, or footwork, a tennis ball machine can help you improve your skills. In this review, I present to you a carefully curated list of the best tennis ball machines of the year 2023 based on performance, functionality, user-friendliness, and value for money.
Table of Contents
The winners in each category
Here are all the ball machines from our 2023 ball machine test listed below. Clicking on each ball machine will take you directly to the detailed review.Here are my top recommendations 👇
Slinger Bag
94
Very Good
Yes
No
Yes
Spinfire Pro 2
92
Beste Remote Control
Yes
Yes
Ja
Spinshot Plus-2
92
Yes. Also has an app.
Yes
Yes
Yes
Lobster Elite Freedom
91
No
Yes
No
No
Independent & Unbiased
All products featured on FourtyLove are tested independently by me. I do not favour any brands nor do I receive any money from brands influencing my results. I might earn a small commission if you buy products through my affiliate links.
Ball Machines Reviewed
Hits per Ball Machine
Hours tested
Readers
Many players associate ball machines with a green box that repeatedly hits the same balls at a snail’s pace and without any spin. How can that prepare you for a real competitive match?
Modern ball machines can do much more nowadays. First, you run to the forehand corner, then a high ball to the backhand, followed by a flat ball to the forehand, and finally, you get to smash a lob.
Such customized exercises, simulating specific situations that you may not have handled well in your recent tournament match, are possible with modern tennis ball machines.
The key features of a ball machine
Before acquiring a ball machine, it is important to understand the diverse functions that these machines can offer. By carefully selecting the right features, you can ensure that the ball machine meets your individual needs and goals precisely.
Ball Speed
An appropriate ball speed allows you to improve your timing, handle faster shots, and sharpen your reaction skills.By training with an adequate ball speed, you can simulate realistic playing conditions and better prepare yourself for the speed and pace you would experience during a real match.
A low speed might give you a false sense of security and leave you unprepared when you suddenly have to react to a faster ball. On the other hand, a high speed can overwhelm you and make it difficult to apply the correct technique.
Therefore, if you want to train in a match-like manner, you will need a high speed. However, if you want to practice specific technical aspects of your stroke technique, you will need a low-speed ball machine initially.
Ball Placement
However, it is important to note that there are two different types of ball machines when it comes to ball placement.
- Random Ball Placement: These ball machines oscillate, but they do not know where they are aiming when the next ball is shot. So, you may receive a ball wide to the forehand and then one wide to the backhand, or both balls may be placed centrally.
- Programmed Ball Placement: These ball machines can be set to play balls in the desired order (or randomly) to specific positions. Whether short or long, to the backhand or forehand, no problem! Of course, ball machines with this feature are significantly more expensive.
Launch Angle
At the baseline, you can simulate uncomfortably high balls that we often encounter in tiebreaks during team matches when no one wants to make a mistake.
Spin
Spin is a crucial factor in tennis, and it also plays an important role in tennis ball machines. The ability to simulate different types of spin allows you to immerse yourself in highly realistic match situations. Spin influences the trajectory and behavior of the ball after impact, taking training with a ball machine to the next level.
Topspin is one of the most common types of spin in tennis. It creates forward rotation of the ball, resulting in a higher trajectory and quick acceleration after impact. Setting the ball machine to topspin allows you to practice handling fast-bouncing balls as well as high-bouncing balls that you need to hit above shoulder or head height.
On the other hand, slice spin creates underspin, causing the ball to stay in the air longer and bounce low after impact. A ball machine capable of producing slice spin enables you to realistically train for matches against players who prefer defensive play on their backhand and frequently use slice shots.
Many tennis ball machines can generate topspin but cannot adjust it separately from ball speed. This means that increasing the ball’s speed also increases the topspin. As a result, it is not possible to have fast balls without spin or slow balls with a lot of spin.
If you want to adjust spin and ball speed separately, you will need a ball machine that has two ball throwers (the round plate in the ball machine that shoots the ball out).
Ball Capacity
The ball capacity plays a significant role depending on the purpose for which you need a ball machine. If you intend to use it for your personal training, a ball machine with a capacity of approximately 100 balls will suffice. This allows you to train for a sufficient duration with specific exercises without needing to collect balls too frequently.
However, if you are a coach or training with multiple players simultaneously, you should look for a machine that can hold at least 150 tennis balls to accommodate the needs of multiple participants.
Control Capability
One of the most important factors that I completely overlooked when purchasing my first ball machine many years ago was: How do I adjust the machine?
Here’s a scenario that anyone who has trained with a ball machine is familiar with. You’ve set everything up, you go to your side, and after the first ball, you realize that it’s flying a bit too far to the forehand and not exactly where you want it. Now, you have to run to the other side of the court to stop the machine while it wastes another 5 balls. Then, it takes a bit of time to turn the machine around, and finally, you can resume.
This huge waste of time can be avoided if you invest in a ball machine with a remote control. With a remote control, you can adjust various settings such as machine rotation, spin type, speed, or ball frequency WITHOUT having to run to the other side of the court.
Some ball machines even offer apps that turn your smartphone into a remote control. I highly recommend investing in a ball machine with a remote control—it’s a game-changer!
Battery Life
Sufficient battery life and convenient charging options are crucial considerations. A good ball machine should have a minimum battery life of four hours. Depending on your usage, you may also consider a ball machine with a power connection, eliminating the need to rely on battery life.
Some ball machines also offer replaceable batteries, allowing you to swap them out as needed.
Portability
The weight and portability of a tennis ball machine play an important role in choosing the right model.
Portability is particularly important if you intend to transport the tennis ball machine regularly or use it at different locations.
A ball machine that is too heavy can be cumbersome and make transporting it from the car to the tennis court extremely difficult. If you plan to transport your ball machine regularly from the car to the court, you should definitely lean towards a lightweight ball machine.
A machine that is easy to transport facilitates setup and breakdown on the tennis court and allows you to move it effortlessly from one place to another. Factors such as size, weight, carrying handles, and storage space come into play.
Some ball machines, like the Slinger Bag, are especially easy to transport as they have enough space inside for balls, rackets, and even a ball pick-up tube.
However, if you can leave the machine near the court, weight doesn’t really matter. Just roll it to the right spot and you’re good to go.
All Ball Machines Reviewed
Ball Machine Comparison Table
| Ball Machine | Rating | Remote | Topspin | Slice | Programmable | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Slinger Bag See review |
93 | 92 | 91 | 0 | 96 |
|
SPINFIRE PRO 2 See review |
92 | 100 | 94 | 94 | 95 |
|
SPINSHOT PLUS-2 See review |
92 | 94 | 95 | 95 | 90 |
|
LOBSTER ELITE FREEDOM See review |
91 | 0 | 91 | 0 | 0 |
Do I Need a Ball Machine?
That’s a good question, isn’t it?
The answer to that question depends entirely on you and your playing partners. In 99% of cases, I would prefer a “real” training partner over a ball machine. No ball machine in the world can play balls as realistically as a real tennis player.
However, there are a few problems with these “real” training partners.
Often, they don’t have time, they are sick, or they are injured.
Furthermore, not every tennis player has a similar skill level to yours, and training with them may not be beneficial at all.
If you frequently find yourself in this situation, then you may need a ball machine.
A ball machine is never sick and always has the perfect skill level. It can play balls hundreds of times with the same spin, speed, and trajectory to the same spot.
You can also train endurance and specific match situations excellently with a modern tennis ball machine.
The only thing you cannot train with a ball machine is the actual match itself. Match situation? Yes! A real tennis match? No!
Vamos!
The Best Tennis Ball Machines of 2023
I understand that every tennis player has unique requirements and preferences. That’s why I made an effort to test a wide range of models to cater to different needs. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your fundamentals or an experienced player aiming to take your skills to the next level, I’ve analyzed ball machines for every type of player.
My review includes a detailed evaluation of the performance of each ball machine, supplemented by my personal impressions and recommendations. I’ve also taken into account customer reviews and feedback to provide a comprehensive overview of the quality and reliability of the tested models.
I hope that my review helps you find the perfect tennis ball machine for you. Whether you’re looking for a machine for solo training, with a partner, or in a group, I’ve tested various options for you. Keep reading to learn more about each model and make an informed decision for your next tennis training.
Enjoy reading and good luck in choosing your new (or first) tennis ball machine!
Slinger Bag
Slinger Bag
The Slinger Bag burst onto the market a few years ago through a successful Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign and has since made a name for itself. It is known for its affordable price and high portability compared to heavier ball machines. Its partnership with Dunlop and integration into the Connexa Sports Group have also contributed to its popularity.
I had the privilege of testing the Slinger Bag for several weeks and comparing its performance to more expensive models. In my comprehensive hands-on test and review, I will share my experiences.
The Slinger Bag comes in a large bag that can not only accommodate the ball machine itself but also accessories like balls, remote control, and even tennis rackets. This makes transportation and storage very convenient and compact.
When using the Slinger Bag, I was impressed with its ability to generate a challenging topspin ball. Although it lacks the diverse features of other ball machines, it still offers good all-around performance. With skillful placement and adjustment of speed and launch angle, you can practice various shots and improve your game.
The bag itself is well constructed and offers practical features such as an extendable ball collector, storage space for tennis balls, and accessory compartments for rackets and other items. The wheels and extendable handle allow for easy transport on the court.
Some minor improvements could be made, such as the ability to regulate speed and ball rate through the remote control, as well as a small LCD display to show battery status instead of LED lights.
Overall, I recommend the Slinger Bag as a good option for ambitious recreational players and aspiring professionals. It provides solid performance at an affordable price and is a convenient all-in-one solution for training. Whether you want to work on your basic strokes or train specific techniques, the Slinger Bag can help take your game to the next level.
PRO
- Very nice design
- All-in-one package
- Easy to transport
- Lots of topspin
- Good price
CON
- Balls get stuck from time to time
- Remote control loses connection sometimes
- Needs a seperate oscillator to rotate
Spinfire Pro 2
Spinfire Pro 2
The Spinfire Pro 2 is a robust ball machine that offers a wide range of features. One particularly impressive aspect is the well-designed remote control, which I would consider the best I’ve seen on a ball machine. It allows you to activate and deactivate the machine and easily adjust the direction, spin, and length of the balls. You can even set up drills where the balls alternate between forehand and backhand shots.
The ball machine offers a variety of pre-programmed drills, including short balls, long balls, and random ball placements. It also features an internal oscillation mechanism that can precisely place the balls at desired positions. The rotation can be adjusted from narrow to wide angles.
The Spinfire Pro 2 provides a wide range of ball speeds, from extremely slow to 130 km/h, making it suitable for both beginners practicing slow balls and advanced players looking to attack fast shots. The spin can also be adjusted, and the machine is capable of generating significant topspin and a wicked slice.
With a capacity of up to 150 balls and a battery life of 3-8 hours, the Spinfire Pro 2 offers ample playing time without the need for frequent recharging. The ball machine is also very portable and mobile. It weighs between 18 and 24 kilograms depending on the version, and it can fit in any car trunk.
Another plus point is that the Spinfire Pro 2 also works with paddle balls, making it a versatile option for players of all skill levels.
The only drawback I noticed is the high price for a replacement remote control in case it gets lost. At nearly 100€, it can be an additional cost factor.
Overall, the Spinfire Pro 2 is a ball machine that offers all the advanced features one could desire. It is ideal for players of all skill levels, with an excellent remote control and long battery life. However, if you don’t require the additional features, you may also consider a simpler and more cost-effective option.
PRO
- Many settings for individual practice
- Great Remote Control for easy and fast control
- Good ball capacity and battery life
- Great for all levels
CON
- Expensive
- remote control is very expensive if lost
Spinshot Plus-2
Spinfire Pro 2
The Spinfire Pro 2 ball machine is a fantastic option for tennis players looking to improve their skills. With a range of advanced features and a user-friendly app, it delivers impressive performance.
The ball speed of the Spinfire Pro 2 can be adjusted to meet the needs of players at all skill levels, ranging from 30 km/h up to an impressive 110 km/h. The machine can hold up to 120 tennis balls, providing ample capacity for longer training sessions.
In terms of spin capabilities, the Spinfire Pro 2 allows for topspin, backspin, and even slice. This is especially helpful for advanced players looking to practice various shot types.
The machine features an impressive oscillation function, allowing the balls to be played to different areas of the court. This enables realistic training that prepares players for various game situations.
The Spinfire Pro 2 also stands out for its compact size and mobility. Weighing 25 kg and featuring easy transportation mechanisms, it is ideal for players on the go.
Operating the Spinfire Pro 2 is simple and user-friendly. The physical control panel provides direct control, while the app offers more comprehensive control through Bluetooth. The app allows for adjustment of settings, starting and stopping exercises, and creating custom sequences.
Another advantage of the Spinfire Pro 2 is its battery life of approximately three hours, which can be extended by using an external battery pack or plugging it into a power outlet.
Overall, the Spinfire Pro 2 ball machine is an excellent choice for tennis players of all skill levels. Its versatility, mobility, and advanced features make it a powerful training partner. However, the price may be a deterrent for some players, especially if they do not require all the features. In such cases, Spinshotsports also offers more affordable options that may be sufficient.
PRO
- Customizable ball speed (18-68 mph)
- High ball capacity (up to 120 balls)
- Versatile spin settings (topspin, backspin, slice)
- Impressive oscillation function
- Compact and portable (55 lbs)
- Easy operation and app control
CON
- Potentially high price
- Not all features are necessary for every player
Lobster Elite
Lobster Elite Freedom
The Lobster ball machines are known for their high quality and versatile features. In my testing, I tried out different models and was impressed by the performance and versatility of these machines.
The ball speed of Lobster ball machines ranges from 9 mph to an impressive 81 mph. Even the more affordable models like the Elite Freedom and Elite Liberty offer a maximum speed of 71 mph, which is sufficient for beginners and intermediate players.
The Lobster ball machines can hold up to 150 balls, providing ample capacity for longer training sessions. Additionally, all models can generate topspin and backspin, making the training experience more realistic.
The machines feature an oscillation function, allowing the balls to be distributed across the court at a 50-degree angle. This enables varied training that simulates different game situations.
Depending on the model, the Lobster ball machines offer various preset exercises and drills. The Elite Grand models even allow for custom drill programming, offering individualized training and the ability to focus on specific areas of the game.
The battery life of Lobster ball machines is impressive, lasting up to 8 hours. This allows for longer training sessions without interruptions.
The machines are easy to handle and lightweight enough to transport and position on the court. The compact size and oversized wheels make transportation convenient.
Another positive feature of Lobster ball machines is their quiet operation. They are barely audible and do not disrupt the training session.
Overall, Lobster ball machines are an excellent choice for tennis players of all skill levels. With a wide range of models, everyone can find the right ball machine, whether for recreational use or professional use in tennis schools. Lobster ball machines offer high quality, innovative features, and reliable performance that can elevate your tennis training to a new level.
PRO
- Customizable ball speed (9-81 mph)
- High ball capacity (up to 150 balls)
- Versatile spin settings (topspin, backspin)
- Oscillation function for varied training
- Various exercises and drills available
- Impressive battery life (up to 8 hours)
CON
- expensive
- many features that most players never need
Certainly, feel free to ask me any questions about my list of the best tennis ball machines for 2023 in the comments. I’m here to assist you.
A tennis ball machine is a device designed to automatically shoot tennis balls and assist players in their training. The exact functioning may vary depending on the model, but generally, it follows a similar principle.
Firstly, tennis balls are loaded into a hopper or chamber within the machine. These containers can have different capacities, depending on the model. Some machines can hold only a few balls, while others can store a larger number.
Once the balls are in the container, the ball machine uses mechanisms like a rotating wheel or compression system to extract and position the balls individually. Then, the speed and placement of the ball are adjusted. This can be done manually using controls on the machine itself or through a remote control.
Once the settings are in place, the ball is launched. This is typically done using a pneumatic mechanism, a spinning wheel, or a spring-loaded mechanism. The ball is propelled at a specific speed and with a certain spin to simulate various game situations. Advanced models can even generate different types of shots like topspin, slice, or lob.
Some tennis ball machines have additional features such as adjustable height, variations in shot power, or the ability to program specific shot patterns. This allows players to customize their training and simulate different situations to enhance their skills.
It’s important to note that tennis ball machines are designed as training aids and are not meant to replace the human aspect of the game. They provide players with an opportunity to practice their shot techniques, improve their timing, and work on their conditioning.
Overall, tennis ball machines enable players to train alone or with a partner without relying on another player. They offer an effective way to develop specific skills and refine the game.
Yes, it is possible to use a tennis ball machine for pickleball, provided that the machine allows for certain adjustments or settings. To use a tennis ball machine for pickleball, there are several options. One option is to use tennis balls specifically designed for pickleball. These balls have lower bounce and slower speed compared to regular tennis balls. By using these balls in the tennis ball machine, you can adjust the speed and settings accordingly to accommodate the pickleball game. In general, it is possible to use a tennis ball machine for pickleball as long as certain adjustments can be made or special balls are used.
The best tennis balls for a ball machine are the most affordable ones you can find. To achieve a realistic ball feel that closely resembles a real match, you’ll want to use relatively new tennis balls that haven’t lost much pressure or felt. In a tournament or competitive matches, you receive a fresh can of three balls that behave completely differently from tennis balls that have been hit around 200 times.
Simply look for tennis balls at your preferred store or online shop and purchase a carton of the most affordable ones available.
Tennis ball machines are relatively expensive for several reasons.
Firstly, the design and manufacturing of such machines require special technology and materials to ensure they meet the high standards of tennis. The ball machines must be capable of firing balls with precision and consistency, both in terms of speed and placement. This level of engineering and quality control contributes to the higher cost.
Secondly, the demand for tennis ball machines is relatively low compared to other sports equipment. This means that the production volume is not as high as, for example, soccer balls or basketball hoops. Lower production quantities often result in higher manufacturing costs per unit.
Additionally, factors such as distribution and marketing costs, as well as profit margins, also play a role in determining the price of tennis ball machines. Retailers need to cover their expenses and achieve a reasonable profit, while manufacturers need to recoup their investments and expenses.
Overall, the combination of specific technology, lower demand compared to other sports equipment, development costs, brand value, and other factors contribute to the relatively high price of tennis ball machines. However, it’s important to note that there are also more affordable options available on the market, depending on the individual needs and requirements of the user.
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