Month: April 2021

If you’re looking for a feature-rich ball machine that’s easily portable, look no further than the Lobster Elite 1. One of the best tennis ball machines on the market, this launcher has amazing durability and range of great features.

One of the best things about the Elite 1 is that it comes with the features of more advanced ball machines, for a smaller price tag.

If you want to learn more about the Lobster Elite 1 and its features, keep reading.

Technical Details

The dimensions of the Lobster Elite 1 are 21x14x20 inches and the machine weighs just 42 pounds, making it easy to transport to and from the court and even in and out of your trunk.

Despite its light weight, the durability of the launcher is not compromised. It’s sturdy enough to withstand transportation and remain in good condition throughout the seasons.

The Elite 1 has a 150-ball hopper and 4-8 hours of battery backup. Of course, the backup time depends on how you use the machine; however, it should last for at least 4 hours, even when using the most intense settings.

It has a feed rate of between 2 and 10 seconds and is easy to customize. The oscillation speed is also changeable, allowing you to set it between 20 and 80mph.

The Lobster Elite 1 is a fairly basic ball machine intended for the repeated practice of shot swings. The ball capacity of 150 balls provides any beginner or intermediate player with enough time to practice before having to stop and refill.

While the machine falls into the ‘basic ball machine’ category, it boasts some advanced features to also satisfy more experienced players.

The electrical elevation can be altered between 0 and 60 degrees; this is comparable with the more expensive ball machines, many of which have a 0 to 50-degree range.

The launcher has 4 different topspin and backspin levels which can be altered via the easy-to-use control panel. The feed interval can be set between 2 and 12 seconds which is standard for all Lobster ball machines.

Unlike more advanced launchers, the Elite One only offers one oscillation mode: random corner to corner horizontal oscillation. While this is fine for beginners, it may be too little for advanced players who want a realistic on-court experience.

The Good

Like all tennis ball machines, the Lobster Elite 1 has some pros and cons. Below, we explore some of its key features.

+ Handy Remote Control

The Elite 1 comes with optional remote control. If you’re willing to pay a little bit extra, you can add the remote onto your package and use it to control the oscillation and ball feed rate.

During your practice, you can use the remote to trigger the oscillation motor and aim its feed wherever you like. If you want to adjust the settings, simply turn off the ball feeder and choose your options.

While this can also be done via the control panel, the remote allows you to control and launcher from anywhere on the court.

+ Impressive Battery Life

For a small tennis ball machine, the battery life of the Lobster Elite 1 is impeccable. While the advertised backup time is 4 hours, it can go for as long as 8 hours – depending on how you use it.

When running on its full potential, the battery will last for roughly 4.5 hours. You’ll then have to recharge the battery before using it again. Thankfully, the machine boasts a low-battery indicator, so you’re never caught out during a game.

+ Punchy Top Spin

The Lobster Elite 1 offers an impressive level of topspin. Similar to that of the Half Volley Playmate, the Lobster Sports Elite Grand Five, and the Lobster Sports Elite 3 Portable, the topspin punch makes each shot more challenging. The level of topspin can be adjusted to suit your training requirements.

+ Smooth Oscillation

The oscillation of the Lobster Elite 1 is very smooth. As it feeds the ball in a random direction, it mimics the motion of a real opponent. The machine rotates randomly but slowly, giving more advanced players an idea of where the ball will go. However, this won’t be an issue for beginners and intermediate level players.

The Bad

Here are the downsides of the Lobster Elite 1.

– Long Recharging Time

While the battery life is impressive, the recharge time is slightly disappointing. It takes 25 hours to fully recharge once it’s flat, which is much longer than similar machines on the market.

– No Assembly Instructions

Unfortunately, the machine doesn’t come with assembly instructions. This means you may find it hard to assemble, particularly if you’re new to tennis ball machines. If you are struggling, you can get around this by watching a tutorial online.

Material & Construction

The Lobster Elite 1 is made from hard-wearing plastic. This keeps the launcher lightweight without compromising its durability. The machine also comes with 2 years’ warranty against manufacturing defects; this allows you to get any defects replaced free-of-charge, providing that it wasn’t your fault.

Overall Performance

Overall, the Lobster Elite 1 is a beginner-friendly tennis ball launcher with a plethora of great features. Despite the low price tag, the machine has similar features to the more advanced machines which allow you to enjoy more for less.

Who Is It For?

The Lobster Elite 1 is best suited to beginner and intermediate level players. However, some of the features are suitable for more advanced players who are looking to practice basic skills.

Verdict

The Lobster Elite 1 is one of the most durable battery-operated machines on the market. Despite being labeled as an entry-level ball machine, it’s also suitable for intermediate players looking to take their skills to the next level. If you want to improve your game without breaking the bank, the Lobster Elite 1 is a great option.

Sports Attack has been a leading company in sports training equipment since 1995. Today, they have a range of patented ball-throwing machines to enable athletes to reach their full potential.

There are many amazing tennis ball machines available but where they fall short is by not being to emulate a serve for you to practice returning.

The best machine in this respect is undoubtedly the Ace Attack Tennis Serving Machine. A firm favorite of tennis players, this innovative machine has been time-tested for almost 2 decades.

Technical Details

Fully adjustable, the Ace Attack is suitable for tennis players of all levels. However, the top of the range machine is definitely an investment. With a high price tag, it may be beyond the budget of many recreational players and more suited to a professional tennis club or team.

If you’re looking for a versatile, durable, and powerful ball machine, the Ace Attack will not disappoint.

The launcher can fire out balls from 20 to 100mph, depending on your play style and preference. As the release height can be adjusted between 42 and 100in, the machine can project a wide range of shots.

When used on the highest setting, the Ace Attack can simulate left or right-handed slice, flat, or kicks serves, in addition to speciality shots like side-spinning squash shots and inside out slice backhands.

Balls can be fired in variable width 1-line, 2-line, and 3-line feeds, with the option of a variable release if you so wish. The Ace also features a 200-ball transparent hopper, which enables you to see when the machine is almost empty. The three sturdy throwing wheels allow you to feed balls with any combination of sidespin, topspin, or backspin.

Avid players will know that serve returns are one of the most important yet under-practised shots in tennis. With this in mind, the Ace Attack is an essential piece of kit if you want to get ahead of your competition.

Specification

• Ball Feed Speed: 20 to 100 mph
• Ball Feed Interval: 1.5 seconds to 12 seconds
• Ball Capacity: 200 balls
• Electrical – 120V, 15AMP
• Weight: 68kg
• Dimensions: Height: 173 cm Length: 86 cm Width: 134 cm

The Good

+ Remote Control

The Ace Attack comes with a handy remote control. Enabling you to pause the feeding from across the court, you can take a short break between shots for instruction or a breather. The remote works at a distance well over 120 feet, enabling you to suspend the feeding from anywhere on the court. The Ace Attack boasts noise-reducing capacitors and shielded cabling to allow a consistent and reliable signal from the remote control.

+ Tennis Machine Cover

Crafted from lightweight, weatherproof vinyl, the Ace Attack cover will protect your machine during inside or outside storage. The cover features durable brass bottom grommets to accommodate chain and lock for extra security. If you decide the cover is unnecessary, the Ace Attack can be purchased on its own. However, the protective cover will keep your machine in top condition for years to come – particularly if you’re storing the launcher outside.

+ Adjustable Height

The Ace Attack throwing head can be adjusted to accommodate different serving heights. Depending on your preference, the head can be raised to deliver right or left-handed serves and second services with high kicks. Imitating the serving height of a human opponent, you can enjoy a realistic on-court experience. With the Ace Attack, there is no need to splash out on an expensive serve lift accessory. The throwing head quickly adjusts to provide a range of groundstrokes including forehands, backhands, volleys, and lobs.

+ Three-Wheel Design

The Ace Attack features three throwing wheels to provide almost any combination of shots. The three-wheel design also provides a sturdy grip at three points on the ball, as well as unmatched pinpoint accuracy and professional level speeds.

+ 200 Ball Hopper

The Ace Attack boasts a transparent 200 ball hopper. The transparent design allows you to see when the balls are getting low so the machine can be refilled. The state-of-the-art ball feed is a jam-free system the offers complete visibility of ball speed. The interval between shots can be set between 1.5 and 12 seconds to suit your preference.

+ Open Air Design

The machine features an open-air design with no covers to contain ball residue and clog the mechanism. Unlike many ball throwers, the Ace Attack has a steel construction to ensure low maintenance and years of uninterrupted play.

+ Easy to Use

The Ace Attack can be set up in minutes. Once the thrower is rolled onto the court, simply plug it in and set your ball speed, velocity, spin, oscillation, and interval using the user-friendly control panel. Unlike similar machines on the market, the Ace Attack requires no lengthy programming to calculate or input. If you fancy a change of pace, return to the control panel and resume the game in a matter of seconds.

The Bad

– Heavy

Weighing 150lbs, the Ace Attack is a heavy tennis ball machine. If you’re looking for a machine to transport back and forth, it probably isn’t the model for you. However, if you own a private court this isn’t an issue. Providing that you use the Ace Attack cover, the ball thrower can be left outside throughout the seasons.

– Large

The Ace Attack is fairly large. This means that transporting it to and from the court can be tricky if you don’t have a big car. Much like the previous point, this makes the machine better suits to private court owners who are happy to leave the machine in place.

– Mains Powered

Unlike some machines, the Ace Attack can only be powered by AC mains. With no battery option, you’ll need to have access to a power outlet to use the machine.

– Expensive

The Ace Attack is expensive. If you’re a beginner looking for a basic ball thrower, the Ace Attack may not be the right fit. However, if you’re a professional tennis player or you’re after a machine for your club or team, the Ace Attack is a great choice.

Material and Construction

For durability and ease of use, the control panel uses reliable printed circuitry and industrial quality modular components.

The three throwing wheels are crafted from sturdy material to ensure lesser ball wear. The three-wheel design enables 50% more gripping surface and throwing efficiency than a two-wheel design, as well as providing a variety of ball spin options.

The stainless-steel frame has a rust-proof powder coating to protect the machine throughout the seasons.

The elevation actuator is also made from stainless steel specified for heavy-duty machine use; this provides exceptional corrosion resistance and power.

The Ace Attack boasts an industrial quality gear-head ball feeding motor to provide years of trouble-free play. The machine also benefits from an extra wide base to ensure stability and safety on the court.

The self-lubricating ball-bearing motors have an aluminum and steel frame to provide endless seasons of reliability; with the innovative coating, even dust from the court will not penetrate the motor.

Overall Performance

Overall, this machine has all the premium features that the top model machines offer.

The adjustable height of the throwing head enables a wide range of serves, including both left and right-handed. Mimicking the serve of a human opponent, the machine provides a realistic on-court experience to step up your game.

As the Ace Attack is adjustable, you won’t have to invest in an experience serve lift accessory.

Instead, you’ve got everything you need in a single machine. The three-wheel design ensures a firm grip on the ball and provides professional level speeds and pinpoint accuracy.

Providing almost every type of shot imaginable, the Ace Attack will help you to become a well-rounded tennis player.

Who Is It For?

The Ace Attack Tennis Serving Machine is suitable for players of all abilities. Whether you’re a novice, amateur, or expert, this ball launcher will certainly improve your game.

As mentioned previously, the high price tag means that it’s beyond the budget of many recreational players. If you’re just getting started with tennis, you may prefer something more basic, to begin with. However, if you’re hoping to play tennis at a professional level, the Ace Attack offers everything you’ll need and more.

Verdict

Offering a plethora of special features, the Ace Attack will certainly step up your game. If you’re looking for a top-quality, durable, and versatile ball thrower, this machine is definitely worth the investment.

A tennis ball machine is a perfect way to improve your game. Not only can you practice as and when you like, but you can also play without a human opponent. When it comes to choosing a machine, there are various types to pick from.

If you’re an intermediate to advanced tennis athlete, you’ll want something fast and powerful that provides a realistic on-court experience. In this article, we explore some of the fastest tennis ball machines to help you decide which is best.

Playmate iGenie – Fastest

Specs

• Oscillation: random
• Speed: 12-105 mph
• Feed rate: 1-60 seconds
• Elevation: 15-55 degrees
• Ball capacity: 300
• Power: AC mains
• Weight: 37 kg

The Playmate iGenie is the fastest tennis ball machine on the list. The powerful launcher has a ball speed of between 12 and 105 mph, making it popular amongst players of all sorts.

The ball thrower comes with a state-of-the-art control panel and provides 10 different shots to simulate real game situations. Whether you’re practicing independently or in a group, the iGenie allows you to practice drills that include approach shots, lobs to 2 lines, and groundstrokes.

If you want to perfect a certain shot, set the launcher to that. If you want to mix things up, that’s possible too! Whatever combination you can think of, you can set the iGenie to do it.

The ball machine also comes with Playmate Tennis for iPhone and iPad support. This handy little app enables you to plan ahead and create drills, track your workouts, and compare results with others.

The downside is that as well as being the fastest, it is also the most expensive!

Lobster Sports Elite Two

Specs

• Oscillation: Random horizontal and vertical
• Speed: 10-80 mph
• Feed rate: 2-12 seconds
• Elevation: 0-60 degrees
• Ball capacity: 150
• Power: AC mains
• Weight: 42 lbs

The first pick on the list is the Lobster Sports Elite Two. This stationery tennis ball machine provides everything you need to improve your game. Powered by AC, you can practice for as long as you like, without needing to recharge the battery.

This tennis launcher features a 150-ball hopper, allowing you to practice for longer without needing to refill. It’s customizable and can shoot balls at a speed of 10-80 mph, making it one of the fastest machines on the market.

Weighing 42 pounds, this Lobster ball machine is light enough to transport to and from the court. If you need to lift the launcher in and out of your trunk, you won’t have a problem with this machine. However, if you do have a private court, it’s hardwearing enough to stay put throughout the seasons.

Like most of the Lobster launchers, the Sports Elite 2 boasts a selection of pre-programmed drills. These simulate popular playing styles like grinder and power baseliner, helping you get to grips with more complicated shots. If you want to mix things up, the drills can be adapted to have a level of speed, spin, and trajectory that suits your needs.

Spinshot Pro

Specs

• Oscillation: Random horizontal and vertical
• Speed: 18-68 mph
• Feed rate: 2-10 seconds
• Elevation: Groundstroke to lob
• Ball capacity: 120
• Power: Battery or AC mains
• Use time: 2-3 hours

Thanks to the braided aluminum construction, the Spinshot Pro is lightweight and durable. The ball launcher is battery operated and comes with a handy remote control and portable charger.

The launcher offers random oscillation and a fast ball speed of between 18 and 68 mph. The speed can be altered in steps, with 2 steps being circa 5 mph. This allows you to adjust the Pro to suit your playing requirements.

While the machine only has one oscillation mode, it can be set to shoot balls from side to side to provide a range of shots. Like all Spinshot launchers, the Pro features a 120-ball hopper. While this is smaller than other machines on the market, it provides ample playing time while keeping the launcher lightweight for ease of transport.

The feed rate can be programmed between 2 and 10 seconds and is altered in steps via the control panel. The ball thrower has 6 different levels of top and backspin, allowing you to try out a range of different shots. The height can also be changed via the user-friendly control panel on the side of the machine.

Spinshot Player

Specs

• Oscillation: Fully customizable
• Speed: 18-68 mph
• Feed rate: 2-10 seconds
• Elevation: Adjustable
• Ball capacity: 120
• Power: Battery or AC mains
• Use time: 2-3 hours
• Weight: 42 lbs

The Spinshot Player is one of the most advanced ball machines on the market. Offering almost every type of oscillation made by a real player, the launcher provides a realistic on-court experience.

The ball thrower is available in two models: AC or battery powered. The battery and charger are included with the battery-powered unit, and a rechargeable power pack and be bought separately for the AC model.

A big selling point of the Player is the ability to pair it with your smartphone. Replacing the traditional remote, your mobile can be used to set the speed, feed rate, angle, and height of the ball. As the thrower comes with custom programming, you can also plug in your customized drills.

With the battery, the Spinshot Player weights 42 pounds. This lightweight makes it easy to lift it in and out of your trunk and move around the tennis court. If you’ve got a private court or playing area, you may prefer the AC model. This way, you can play for as long as you like without needing to recharge the battery.

Playmate Deuce

Specs

• Oscillation: random
• Speed: 12 to 80 mph
• Feed rate: 1-17 seconds
• Elevation: 5-15 degrees
• Ball capacity: 300
• Power: AC mains
• Weight: 46 kg

If you want to practice quick, two-shot combinations, look no further than the Playmate Deuce. Unlike other ball launchers, the Deuce provides two distinct programmable shots, each with its own speed, spin, delay, and elevation. Whether you want to move from a topspin into a backspin or follow a volley with a lob, this thrower has got you covered.

The machine’s control panel makes setting up the shots simple. You can electronically adjust the speed, feed rate height, and topspin or backspin, and also make use of the seven-position direction. With a speed range of between 12 and 80 mph, the Playmate Deuce is one of the fastest tennis ball machines on the market.

Another great thing about this model is that it’s a Chameleon Series tennis ball machine. Compatible with the iGenie, iSmash, and PC control units, this tennis launcher can grow with you and be upgraded as and when you need it.

Playmate iSmash

Specs

• Oscillation: random
• Speed: 12-80 mph
• Feed rate: 1-60 seconds
• Elevation: 15-55 degrees
• Ball capacity: 300
• Power: AC mains
• Weight: 37 kg

The iSmash is Playmate’s base Chameleon Series model. Upgradable to the iGenie, the machine is ideal for players looking to start with the basics and work up. The Chameleon design means you can purchase the launcher now and buy upgrades later to make it into a top-line model.

While the iSmash is the base model, it doesn’t skimp on features. The tennis ball thrower is one of the fastest in production and offers ball speeds of between 12 and 80 mph. It also comes with tons of features to keep you on your toes. The machine features a 300-ball hopper, variable topspin and backspin, and a 7-position programmable electronic direction.

This tennis ball machine is also compatible with the Playmate Serve Lift, allowing you to enjoy the speed of the iSmash from an elevated position.

Playmate Ace

Specs

• Oscillation: 3 Line
• Speed: 12-80 mph
• Feed rate: 1-17 seconds
• Elevation: 15-55 degrees
• Ball capacity: 200
• Power: AC mains
• Weight: 37 kg

Boasting several innovative features, the Playmate Ace is suitable for a club rental, private court owner, or even a training school. Compatible with the Playmate Serve and Lift, the launcher can imitate a human’s serve to provide a realistic on-court experience.

The standard model comes with a hand remote for ON/OFF function and can be upgraded with the Freedom Kit upgrade. Featuring an electronic control panel, you can control the topspin, backspin, speed, and oscillation from anywhere on the court.

With a speed range of between 12 and 80 mph, the Playmate Ace is another super-fast tennis ball machine. The thrower comes with a 200-ball hopper, a view controller, and an electronic direction to 1, 2 or 3 lines.

Unfortunately, this ball launcher isn’t a Chameleon model. This means it can’t be upgraded to become the iSmash, Deuce, iGenie or iSlam. This isn’t necessarily a negative, but it’s worth keeping in mind when choosing your tennis ball thrower.

Spinfire Pro 2

Specs

• Oscillation: Vertical and horizontal
• Speed: 20-80 mph
• Feed rate: 2-15 seconds
• Elevation: Groundstroke to lob
• Ball capacity: 200
• Power: Battery
• Use time: 2-5 hours
• Weight: 52 lbs

The Spinfire Pro 2 is a refined version of the original Spinfire Pro. The launcher boasts a range of new features and is popular amongst budding tennis athletes.

One of the Pro 2’s best features is the internal oscillation. Typically seen on more expensive launchers, this allows the Pro to move fast and make shots less predictable.

Weighing just 52 pounds, the ball thrower is light enough to move around the court. Despite being compact for portability and storage, the tennis machine features a 200-ball hopper. This allows you to practice for longer before needing to refill. When necessary, the hopper can be reversed to cover the machine for protection during transport and storage.

The Spinfire Pro 2 also provides a 2-line drill with 3 settings, LCD, extreme spin, and a membrane touch panel. It’s one of the fastest tennis ball machines on the market, with an adjustable speed of between 20 and 80 mph. The ball interval can also be altered and set between 2 and 15 seconds.

So, there you have it – the fastest tennis ball machines. If you’re an avid tennis player looking to improve your game, invest in one of the super-fast ball throwers above.