Spinfire Pro 2 Review

Retaining all the key features of the previous model, Spinfire Pro 2 is one of the most customizable, intelligent, and well-rounded ball machines in the tennis industry.

With the ability to adjust the machine’s features, you can fully customize the Pro 2 to match your own training requirements.

The Spinfire Pro 2 falls into the best tennis ball machines category quality wise and the upper middle region price wise and is best suited to beginners and intermediate players. To find out more about what the Spinfire Pro 2 offers, keep reading!

Technical Details

The Spinfire Pro 2 is a new and improved version of the original Spinfire Pro. Boasting a range of unique features not offered by similar machines, the Pro 2 is a must-have amongst budding tennis stars.

One of the most notable features is the internal oscillation that’s typically found on more expensive machines. The innovative design allows for a 200-ball hopper while also being compact for storage and portability.

The basic package includes a 2-line drill with 3 settings, LCD display, extreme spin, and a membrane touch panel.

The ball speed of the Pro 2 can be adjusted from 20-80 mph with variable topspin.

The ball interval can be set anywhere between 2 and 15 seconds to suit your training requirements. When necessary, the 200-ball hopper can be reversed to cover the machine for protection during transport and storage.

As well as protecting the machine, the cover makes the Pro 2 appear neat and compact. The machine also boasts solid wheels and a durable handle for easy transportation. When not in use, the handle is stored underneath the machine and can be extended when required.

The Spinfire Pro 2 boasts a state-of-the-art control panel. The backlit LCD menu can be used to adjust settings for ball speed, spin, interval, and elevation. The membrane touch panel is easy to use and provides a strong aesthetic appeal.

The machine can either be connected to AC mains or powered with a battery. When the battery is fully charged, the launcher has a continuous running time of 2-3 hours. With ball pick up included, the allows up to 5 hours use on the court. A smart 4amp charger is supplied with the machine, allowing you to connect it to the mains and run for as long as you like.

A favorite feature of the Spinfire Pro 2 is the internal oscillation. Unlike a traditional ball machine, the Pro 2 can move quickly and make shots less predictable. The triple oscillator creates a random pattern of shots with a range in direction. In addition, the 2-line facility enables alternate forehand and backhand feed and can be set to narrow, medium, or wide.

Specification

  • Ball Feed Speed: 20 to 80 mph
  • Ball Feed Interval: 2 seconds to 15 seconds
  • Ball Capacity: 200 balls
  • Battery life: 2 – 5 hours
  • Weight: 24kg/52lbs
  • Dimensions: Height: 49 cm Length: 67 cm Width: 51 cm

The Good

+ Internal Oscillation

The internal oscillation of the Spinfire Pro 2 makes shots far less predictable. On less advanced machines, the whole body oscillates which makes the movement slower and less erratic. The fast, less predictable shots of the Spinfire Pro 2 provide a realistic on-court experience.

+ Counter Rotating Wheels

Like the original Spinfire Pro, the second model uses counter-rotating wheels to fire the balls. Providing an extreme grip, this allows the machine to remain quiet while also producing topspin and slice.

To reduce the predictability of each shot, the wheels are black to disguise their location inside the launcher.

+ Vertical & Horizontal Oscillation

Boasting both vertical and horizontal oscillation, the machine can shoot with variation in width and depth. Depending on your preference, these features can be turned on together or individually. When used together, they offer a totally random play.

+ Portability

The hopper of the Pro 2 can be reversed to cover the machine. Making the machine very compact, this makes for easy transportation to and from the court. The machine is also equipped with solid wheels and an extendable handle. When not in use, the hand is stored neatly under the machine.

+ Two-Line Drill

Not only does the Spinfire Pro offer totally random hitting, but it also has the option of two-line drills. Only available on the Pro 2, this allows the machine to alternate between forehands and backhands.

As the settings can be changed to ‘narrow’, ‘medium’, or ‘wide’, this feature makes the Pro 2 suitable for all abilities.

If you’re looking for a challenge, turn on ‘vertical oscillation’ simultaneously to vary the depth of each shot.

+ Extreme Spin

The throwing wheels of the Pro 2 have an extreme grip to create a high level of topspin and slice. On the top setting, the level of the spin is high enough to challenge even the most avid tennis player. However, the level of spin can be adjusted to accommodate all abilities.

+ LCD Display and Membrane Touch Panel

The menu is displayed on a membrane touch panel. Featuring a backlit LCD display, the menu is used to adjust the machine’s setting and view diagnostic information and battery life.

+ Calibration

The Spinfire Pro 2 boasts infrared sensors that self-calibrate the machine before each use. Before you begin, you can easily set the machine in the center of the court. If you decide to turn off vertical or horizontal oscillation, the machine will recalibrate to its initial position.

+ Memory

Unlike cheaper machines, Spinfire Pro 2 can store your favorite settings. Each time you turn on the machine, it remembers the last settings you were using for speed, spin and interval.

+ Remote Control

The Spinfire Pro 2 includes a handheld remote control. This device can be used anywhere on the court to control the feed, horizontal and vertical oscillation, 2-line drill, and elevation. There is also a pause function to power down the machine and save battery life while you collect the balls.

The Bad

– Remote To Be Purchased Separately

In the basic Spinfire Pro 2 package, the remote isn’t included. This means that you’ll have to purchase it separately to enjoy this feature. However, there are various packages available when you buy the machine, some of which include a remote control.

– No Preprogrammed Drills

The Spinfire Pro 2 doesn’t provide preprogrammed drills. However, it does offer a wide variety of different shots to keep you on your toes – you’ll just have to put the drills together yourself. If you’re set on a launcher with preprogrammed drills, have a look at the other machines on our website.

– External Battery Option

The Spinfire Pro 2 comes in two models: one with an external battery and one with an internal.

If you choose the former, the battery will come fitted into a case with cables for you to connect to your machine when in use.

With the external battery, the weight of the machine is reduced to 18kg. The reduction in weight will make your machine easier to carry, lift, and maneuver around the court.

Additionally, the external battery makes the machine easier to charge. Instead of carrying the entire machine to a powerpoint, simply remove the battery and plug it in. From fully charged, the battery should last up to 5 hours. If you’d like to play for longer, carry multiple external battery packs and swap them over. While you’re using one battery, charge the other.

Finally, an external battery is easier to replace when needed. If charged regularly, the Spinfire battery should last approximately 2 years.

Material & Construction

The Spinfire Pro 2 has a durable plastic frame and an extendable handle to maneuver it around the court. The 200-ball hopper can be reversed to cover the machine. Not only does this make the machine look neat and compact, but it also protects it during transport and storage.

Overall Performance

Overall, Spinfire Pro 2 is a brilliant tennis ball machine. With a range of unique features including internal oscillation, the Pro 2 is superior to many similar machines on the market.

Who Is It For?

The Spinfire Pro 2 falls into the upper middle category of tennis ball machines. Fully customizable, the machine is suitable for tennis players of all abilities.

Verdict

Editor Rating: 9.5 out of 10 stars

Overall, the Spinfire Pro 2 is a good-quality, mid-level tennis ball machine. To make the machine even better, they could incorporate a few preprogrammed drills.

That being said, the customizable nature of the machine makes it simple to create your own drills – just the way you like. Plus, the Pro 2 remembers your favorite settings to make set up easier than ever.

When you turn it on, the machine will stick with the settings of your last use. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced tennis player, there’s no doubt that the Spinfire Pro 2 will improve your game.

Spinshot Pro Review

One of Spinshot’s best sellers, the Spinshot Pro is a lightweight tennis ball machine.

Spinshot Pro Review

The Spinshot Pro falls into the mid tier category of tennis ball machines. The machine is reasonably priced and its features are suited to all players. To find out more about what the Spinshot Pro has to offer, keep reading.

Technical Details

Unlike competitor machines, including Lobster Sports Phenom II Club Series, Isam Extend, and Tennis Tutor Pro Lite, the Spinshot Pro is not made out of plastic.

The braided aluminum frame keeps the machine lightweight while providing excellent durability.

The ball thrower comes with a 2-button remote and is battery operated with a portable charger included. However, the battery is not included with the standard machine so will need to be purchased separately.

The Spinshot Pro provides random oscillation and boasts a ball speed of between 18 and 68 mph. The speed is adjusted in steps with 2 steps being circa 5 mph. While the machine only has one oscillation mode, it can be programmed to move the ball from side to side to provide a range of shots.

Like all Spinshot tennis ball machines, the Pro is equipped with a 120-ball hopper. While this is lower than some machines, it keeps the Pro lightweight for ease of transport and still provides ample playing time.

The ball feed interval range is 2 to 10 seconds and is selected in steps via the control panel. The speed and feed interval are shown in units instead of metrics, which is a feature of all Spinshot tennis all machines.

The Spinshot Pro offers a pretty extensive range of spins. Boasting 6 different levels of backspins and topspins, you can practice whichever type of shot you fancy.

The height of the machine is set electronically, meaning that you don’t have to manually adjust the height of each shot. This can be set via the user-friendly control panel on the side of the machine.

With all the features taken into account, the Spinshot Pro is superior to competitors in the same price category. However, it offers a little less than the more advanced Spinshot Player model.

Specification

  • Ball Feed Speed: 18 to 68 mph
  • Ball Feed Interval: 2 seconds to 10 seconds
  • Ball Capacity: 120 balls
  • Battery life: 2 – 3 hours
  • Battery charging: 8 to 12 hours for a fully charged battery
  • Weight: 18 kg for the AC model, 20 kg for the battery model
  • Dimensions: Height: 50 cm Length: 50 cm Width: 35 cm

The Good

+ Lightweight

Weighing just 20kg, the Spinshot Pro is a very lightweight tennis ball launcher. The low weight makes the machine portable and easy to transport to and from the court. Even if the ball hopper is full, you can easily move the Spinshot Pro around the tennis court. The Pro also benefits from a built-in handle on the front of the machine. This is strong and durable and allows you to push or pull the machine with ease.

+ Ball Speed

For a portable machine, the ball firing speed of the Spinshot Pro is impressive. Starting from 18 mph and going as high as 68 mph, you can set the speed to suit your play style. If you’re a beginner, we recommend starting with the lowest setting and working your way up. This way, you can perfect your form and develop your skills gradually.

+ Variable Feed Rate

The feed rate of the Spinshot Pro can be set between 2 and 10 seconds. In our opinion, 10 seconds can be too much delay – even for beginners. For best results, we recommend setting the feed rate between 7 and 9 seconds to start with. As your skills improve, you can lower the feed rate and practice a more aggressive play style.

+ Battery Powered

The Spinshot Pro is a battery powered machine. Depending on the exact use of the launcher, time on the court is set at 2 to 3 hours. While this backup is relatively low, it’s still enough time to enjoy your practice and get the most from the machine. Although some players expect a little more at this price level, larger battery capacity would negatively impact the weight of the ball launcher. Plus, two to three hours practice is more than enough for beginners and amateur tennis players.

+ Fast Charging

The shorter battery life of the Spinshot Pro enables fast recharging. In similar machines, the standard recharge time is between 12 and 15 hours. The Spinshot Pro, on the other hand, is fully recharged in just 8 to 12 hours. The fast recharging sets this machine apart from its competitors. If you plan it right, you’ll be able to fit two full practice sessions into one day. As the Spinshot Pro has overcharge protection as part of the charger, you don’t need to worry about leaving your machine on charge for longer than necessary.

+ Random Oscillation

The Spinshot Pro comes with random oscillation. The machine can fire the ball from side to side to give tennis players of all abilities a great workout. While you cannot control the angle of the ball, you can guide the angle manually by moving the machine closer to the net.

+ Remote Control

The machine comes with a simple, 2-button remote control. One button turns the oscillation mode on and off, while the second button turns the ball feed on and off. Allowing you to control the machine from anywhere on the court, you can pause your practice whenever you like. Unlike some tennis ball machines, the remote is included with the Spinshot Pro and doesn’t require an additional charge. To adjust the other parameters, you’ll need to play around with the control panel on the side of the machine.

The Bad

– Battery To Be Purchased Separately

Unfortunately, the battery isn’t included with the machine and will need to be purchased separately. Obviously, you can’t use the ball launcher without a battery, so you’ll have to splash out a little more money before you can practice.

– Backup Time

One downside to the Spinshot Pro is the poor backup time. Lasting for 2-3 hours, the battery life is shorter than other machines in this price bracket. However, as mentioned earlier, larger battery capacity would increase the weight of the machine.

– No Preprogrammed Drills

The Spinshot Pro doesn’t provide preprogrammed drills. Instead, it offers simple random horizontal oscillation. While this is fine for beginners, advanced players may prefer something more versatile. If you’re after something with preprogrammed drills, have a look at the other machines on our site.

Material & Construction

The Spinshot Pro has a high-quality braided aluminum frame and a user-friendly handle to push or pull it around the court.

Like the other Spinshot ball machines, the frame of the Pro is powder-coated to prevent rust.

The main benefit of metal construction is the added stability and resistance to damage. The downside, of course, is the larger weight. With the battery attached, the Spinshot Pro weighs 20kg.

While this is heavier than some plastic machines, the wheels and retractable handle make transportation easy. Unlike Lobster tennis ball machines, the rectangular shape of the Spinshot box makes the launcher easy to store.

Overall Performance

When used correctly, the Spinshot Pro mimics the experience of playing a human opponent. While the features are basic, they’re more than enough for beginners and intermediate tennis players.

Who Is It For?

The Spinshot Pro falls into the mid tier category of tennis ball machines. Offering a range of great features, the machine is ideal for beginner, intermediate, and recreational tennis players.

Verdict

Editors Rating: 9.5 out of 10 stars

Overall, the Spinshot Pro is a good-quality tennis ball machine. To make the machine even better, the backup time could do with some work.

However, if you’re a beginner or intermediate tennis player, 2-3 hours on the court should be more than enough.

For the price, there are a few oscillation choices and the machine does have a variety of topspins and backspins, a short recharging time, and electronic elevation.

If you’re a more advanced player looking to simulate match situations, you may be better suited to the Spinshot Player. However, if you’re a beginner or intermediate player looking to practice your swings, the Spinshot Pro will suit you perfectly.

Spinshot Player Review

If you’re looking for a top end tennis ball machine, the Spinshot Player will not disappoint.

Spinshot Player Review

The machine boasts tons of unique features, including a wide variety of spin shots and compatibility with your smartphone. Fully customizable, the Spinshot Player mimics the experience of playing with a pro level tennis athlete.

If you want to learn more about the Spinshot Player’s features, keep reading!

Technical Details

If you’re after an all-singing, all-dancing machine, look no further than the Spinshot Player.

The machine offers almost every type oscillation a real player can make, allowing you to enjoy a realistic experience.

The machine comes in two models:

  • AC
  • Battery powered

The battery and charger are included with the battery powered launcher, and a rechargeable power pack can be bought for the AC model for an additional charge.

One of the most innovative features of the Player is the ability to pair it with your smartphone. Replacing the traditional remote, your phone can be used to program your shots, speed, feed rate, angle, and height of the ball. Better still, this feature requires no additional charge.

The Spinshot Player offers custom programming, enabling you to feed in your customized drills.

With the battery connected, the machine weighs just 19kg. This low weight makes it easy to move the Player around the court.

The Spinshot Player has five key features that make it stand out. When using the machine, you can customize the speed of shots, the horizontal angle of shots, spin on the balls, shot height and feed interval. If you’re a beginner or intermediate tennis player, this is all you’ll need to improve your game.

When adjusted, the horizontal angle of shots can cover the full width of the court.

With a maximum speed of 68 mph, the speed range is comparable with more expensive machines.

The Player offers 9 different spin rates for topspins and backspins and a feed range broad enough to satisfy avid tennis players. While the ball capacity lags behind top-end models, the 120-ball hopper is more than enough to practice with.

Specification

  • Ball Feed Speed: 18 to 68 mph
  • Ball Feed Interval: 2 seconds to 10 seconds
  • Ball Capacity: 120 balls
  • Programmable Drills: 12 Drills of 6 shots
  • Phone Compatibility: Android or iPhone
  • Battery life: 2 – 3 hours
  • Battery charging: 8 to 15 hours for a fully charged battery
  • Weight: 19 kg
  • Dimensions: Height: 50 cm Length: 50 cm Width: 35 cm

The Good

+ Oscillation

One of the best features of the Spinshot Player is the oscillation. Fully customizable, you can choose the settings that best suit your training requirements. For instance, if you need to practice more spin shots, program the machine from the control panel, your smartphone, or the remote and get ready for a challenge. With the Player, it’s also possible to control the intensity of the spin and enjoy other oscillations such as ‘all around the court’.

+ Preprogrammed Drills

The Spinshot Player boasts 12 pre-programmable drills. Each one of these can be adjusted, totally reprogrammed or used as is. One drill is made up of six ball shots. Every shot in the drill can be programmed to suit your preference. If you like, you can even repeat the same shot again and again. If you want the realistic experience of a tennis game, you can leave the drills as they are and simply adjust the settings of each shot.

+ Remote

The thing that sets the Spinshot Player apart is its smartphone compatibility. When used on your phone, the Spinshot App mirrors the control panel on the physical machine. All you need to connect the two is a WiFi connection. The app is simple to use and allows you to control the machine from anywhere on the court. Similar to a standard remote, the app allows you to adjust the settings or pause the feeder whenever you wish. For the most part, the app is pretty user-friendly. It’s not quite as simple as other iPhone Apps, but it’s definitely better than carrying a traditional remote.

+ Electronic Elevation Control

Traditionally, the elevation of a tennis ball machine is adjusted manually. The Spinshot Player, on the other hand, boasts electronic elevation control. Instead of adjusting the height with a manual knob, you can do so at the touch of a button on your smartphone or remote.

+ 2-Line Function

The new Spinshot Player comes with 2-Line function. With this feature, you can adjust the angle of the horizontal feed to become wider or narrower.

The Bad

– Doesn’t Comes with a Battery

There are 2 models of the Spinshot Player: one powered by a battery and one by AC. The AC version has the capability to run from a power pack, too. However, this model doesn’t come with a battery. This means that you’ll have to purchase a battery separately before using the machine. While this isn’t the end of the world, it’s slightly annoying when you’re spending a decent amout of money.

– Satisfactory User Manual

If you’re new to tennis ball machines, you may have a bit of trouble getting your launcher set up. As the user manual isn’t very helpful, it may be easier to watch a tutorial elsewhere.

– Unable to Set Speed During Drills

One downside to the Player is the inability to set the exact speed of the shots. When programming the machine, you’ll need to work out which number relates to which speed. In the future, it would be great to be able to set exact speeds via the phone app.

– Short Battery Life

Depending on the drills performed, the battery life of the Player is between 2 and 3 hours. As you can imagine, shorter feed interval and more speed result in lower battery life. While two hours may seem short, it’s probably the right amount of time for beginners and intermediate players. When you incorporate breaks for a drink and rest into the timing, the battery life should also satisfy more demanding players.

Unfortunately, the short battery life isn’t mirrored by a fast charge time. On average, the recharging takes between 8 and 15 hours. To make sure the machine is ready for your next session, remember to put it on charge as soon as you’ve finished playing. Providing that the machine is charging overnight, it should be ready to go by your next practice session.

Material & Construction

Unlike many portable ball machines, the Spinshot Player is built from aluminum.

Despite not having a plastic frame, the machine is lightweight and portable. The towing wheels make it easy to maneuver around the court, and the light weight of 19 kg makes for easy lifting in and out of the car.

While the metal frame can seem like a disadvantage at first, it’s actually much more practical than a plastic construction. The aluminum cage is powder-coated to prevent rust, keeping the machine in top condition for years to come.

Additionally, the sturdy frame is much more stable on the court and can withstand hits from the ball better than plastic.

The dimensions of the Player are 50cm x 50 cm x 35cm, allowing players of all sizes transport the machine to and from the court.

Overall Performance

Overall, the Spinshot Player has all the premium features you want in a tennis ball machine. With a good price tag you’re definitely getting your money’s worth with this very high qualty launcher.

Who Is It For?

With a wide variety of features and drills, the Spinshot Player is suitable for any tennis play who wants to improve their skills. With fully customizable settings, the machine can challenge even the most experienced athletes.

Verdict

Editors Rating: 9.5 out of 10 stars

With tons of premium features, the Spinshot Player is probably one of the most reasonably priced launchers on the market. While it’s not the cheapest tennis ball machine out there, it still fits into the cheaper category.

The best thing about the machine is the variable oscillation.

With a top speed of 68 mph and 9 different spin rates for top spins and backspins, the Player can satisfy even the most avid tennis player.

The Spinshot Player is available in two different versions, one with a battery and one powered by AC. For the battery-powered machine, the battery is included in the initial cost; however, it will be packaged and sent separately.

The AC model doesn’t come with a battery, but a power module is available for an additional charge. The Spinshot app for your smartphone is totally free, so there will be no nasty surprises in that area.

When comparing the features of the Spinshot Player with similarly priced models, the Player is far superior to its competitors. With this in mind, the machine is a strong choice for any tennis player looking to up their game.