Have you ever watched a professional penhold player dance around the table with lightning-fast wrist flicks? There is something truly hypnotic about the way they control the ball with such precision. While the shakehand grip is common, the penhold style offers a unique advantage in creativity and close-to-the-table speed. It feels like an extension of your own hand, but mastering it starts with one crucial decision: picking the right racket.
Choosing the perfect blade can feel like a headache. You have to consider blade shape, handle style, and the specific wood layers. Many players waste money on rackets that feel too heavy, too stiff, or simply awkward in their grip. It is easy to get lost in technical jargon when you just want a setup that plays well. Without the right gear, your training sessions can quickly turn into a frustrating battle against your own equipment.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a penhold racket great and how to match one to your personal playing style. You will learn the differences between Japanese and Chinese styles, how weight affects your loops, and which materials provide the best “feel.” Whether you are a beginner or looking to upgrade your current setup, you will walk away with the confidence to choose a blade that fits your game perfectly. Let’s dive into the details and find your next winning racket.
Top Penhold Table Tennis Racket Recommendations
- The BTY CS series from Butterfly is designed for the developing recreational player preferring a pen hold grip
- The Pan Asia rubber provides a good balance of speed and spin
- The backside of this racket features a second sheet of rubber allowing you to execute reverse pen hold backhand (RPB) shots
- Two Butterfly 40+ plastic ping pong balls are included
- Speed: 80 | Spin: 70 | Control: 80
- Features a short handle specially designed for players that use the penhold grip
- High quality Palio rubbers and plywood blade enables players to produce high spin shots, and execute the basic strokes with ease
- Includes a premium case to protect the bat from dust and dirt between use
- ITTF approved rubbers are competition legal and replaceable
- Custom made and assembled by 'Expert Table Tennis' the creators of the highly popular range of Palio bats. Speed = 6/10 Spin = 9/10 Control = 10/10
- Maximum control for the beginning penhold player
- BLADE: Penhold grip
- 2 poly balls: 2-40+ poly balls are included
- RUBBER: Addoy 1. 9mm Red
- Ratings: speed 52, spin 52, control 99
- Model: XIOM M8.0P
- Professional Style
- 9.5mm Whole Racket
- 2.2mm thickness of Rubber
- Black Sponge appllied which represent XIOM High Power Performance Rubber of Z power Level
- BUTTERFLY 302 CS – The Butterfly 302 Chinese Penhold Table Tennis Racket Set will give you good spin, speed, and control for competitive ping pong games.
- RUBBER AND SPONGE - This ITTF approved Butterfly table tennis racket offers sticky Yuki 2.1mm table tennis rubber on both sides that gives your ping pong paddle extra spin to help you beat your opponent.
- CHINESE PENHOLD GRIP – This ping pong paddle has a short chinese penhold handle, which is gripped like you would hold a pen. The red and black colored handle makes it a stylish table tennis paddle.
- GIFT BOX – CASE INCLUDED – This Butterfly table tennis racket ships in a gift box and comes with a free ping pong paddle case to protect the table tennis rubber and prolong the life or your table tennis racket.
- TOURNAMENT APPROVED – This ping pong racket is for those wanting to hit powerful shots and is International Table Tennis Federation - ITTF approved for tournaments.
- DHS Sports: Double Happiness is the world’s leading sports equipment manufacturer and a key contributor to the development of table tennis. Since our inception, we have remained committed to equipping champions, crafting excellence through precision, and leading the industry through innovation.
- High-Performance 6-Star Offensive Blade: Designed for advanced players, features a 5-ply wood construction with a thicker core and wider sweet spot, ideal for fast-attack and loop-driven offensive play.
- Pro-Level ITTF-Approved Rubbers: designed for control-oriented or moderate-power players, it reduces heaviness during strokes, produces longer arcs for better ball control, and allows fast attacks and powerful loops even from close to the table.
- DHS Star Series Quality: Part of the expanded DHS Star Series up to 9-Star level, offering consistent professional standards, high-quality materials, and ITTF-certified rubbers tailored for modern competitive playing styles.
- JAPANESE PENHOLDER GRIP: Designed specifically for the traditional J-Pen style player. Features a premium cork block handle that offers a comfortable, non-slip grip for precise wrist movement and powerful forehand drives.
- POWERFUL JAPANESE TENSION RUBBER: Equipped with XIOM’s signature "Pro" tension rubber (Red). This high-elasticity rubber creates a trampoline effect, delivering explosive speed and heavy spin without sacrificing control.
- ITTF CERTIFIED FOR TOURNAMENT PLAY: Officially approved by the International Table Tennis Federation. This racket is cleared for use in official competitions, leagues, and tournaments worldwide.
- ALLROUND SPEED & CONTROL: The "M 8.0 P" is engineered for the "Allround" playstyle. It provides the perfect balance for players who mix defensive blocks with sudden, aggressive offensive smashes.
- PREMIUM BLADE CONSTRUCTION: Built with high-quality wood layers that absorb vibration while transferring energy efficiently to the ball. The black-painted back face (non-rubber side) adds a sleek, professional aesthetic.
- BLADE: Blade has a penhold grip and contains carbon to increase sweet spot and provides power
- Handle: Japanese Penhold - Cork Mounted On Top Of Handle & Back Of Blade For Comfort
- RUBBER: Sriver 1.9mm Red
- Comes with two 40+ (poly) balls
- RATINGS: Speed 109.5, Spin 79.5, Control 35
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Penhold Table Tennis Racket
Choosing the right penhold table tennis racket can change your entire game. Unlike the shakehand style, the penhold grip requires a specific racket shape and handle design. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, finding the perfect paddle helps you control the ball and hit powerful shots.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a penhold racket, check the blade shape first. Most players prefer a “Japanese” square shape for speed or a “Chinese” round shape for better control. You must also check the handle type. The handle should feel comfortable in your hand. Common styles include the Japanese penhold (JP) handle, which sticks out, and the Chinese penhold (CP) handle, which is shorter and rounded.
Important Materials
- Wood Layers: Most blades use layers of wood. Soft wood gives you more control, while hard wood adds speed.
- Carbon Fiber: Many modern rackets add carbon layers. Carbon makes the blade lighter and faster.
- Rubber: The rubber surface determines your spin. High-quality rubber grips the ball and helps you create heavy topspin.
Factors That Affect Quality
Quality usually depends on the construction of the blade. A high-quality racket has a consistent feel across the entire surface. If you hit the ball near the edge, a good racket will still perform well. Cheap rackets often vibrate too much, which makes it hard to aim. Also, look for well-glued rubber. If the rubber peels away from the wood, your shots will lose accuracy.
User Experience and Use Cases
Penhold rackets are great for players who want to dominate at the table. If you love quick movements and strong forehand attacks, this style is for you. Beginners should start with a wooden blade that has good control. Advanced players often switch to carbon blades to increase their speed. Remember, the penhold style requires a lot of wrist movement, so choose a racket that feels balanced in your palm.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a regular shakehand racket for a penhold grip?
A: No, shakehand rackets have long handles that get in the way of your fingers. You need a dedicated penhold racket for the right balance.
Q: What is the main difference between Japanese and Chinese penhold?
A: Japanese blades are usually thicker and faster. Chinese blades are rounder and better for all-around play.
Q: Does the weight of the racket matter?
A: Yes. A lighter racket is easier to move quickly. A heavier racket provides more power for your smashes.
Q: Should I buy a pre-assembled racket or build my own?
A: Beginners can buy pre-assembled rackets. Advanced players should buy a blade and rubber separately to get the best performance.
Q: How often should I replace my rubber?
A: If the rubber looks shiny or feels slippery, it is time for a change. Most players replace it every 3 to 6 months.
Q: Are carbon blades better than wooden ones?
A: Carbon blades are faster, but wooden blades offer better “feel.” Choose wood if you are a beginner learning to control the ball.
Q: How do I clean my racket?
A: Use a specialized racket cleaner and a sponge. Never use soap or harsh chemicals, as they can ruin the rubber.
Q: Why do some penhold rackets have rubber on both sides?
A: Modern penhold players use “reverse penhold backhand” (RPB). This allows them to hit backhands with the other side of the paddle.
Q: Is a penhold racket harder to learn?
A: It can be tricky at first. However, it offers great agility for players who enjoy fast-paced games.
Q: What is the best way to store my racket?
A: Keep it in a protective case away from direct sunlight and heat. This prevents the rubber from drying out.