Lobster Elite 2 Review

If you want the best ball machine for your money, look no further than the Lobster Elite 2.

Lobster Elite 2 Review

The Elite 2 Portable is another great launcher from Lobster that comes with a plethora of features and an affordable price tag. Just like the other Lobster series ball machines, the Elite 2 has a classy but durable design.

Designed for maximum durability, the launcher can tackle wear and tear and remain in top-quality for years to come. If you want to know more about the Lobster Elite 2 and its features, keep reading!

Technical Details

The Lobster Elite is 2 is Lobster’s mid-range ball machine. Sandwiched between the Elite 1 and the Elite 3, the Elite 2 offers similar features to the Elite 3, with a price tag closer to the Elite 1. The combination of this machine’s price and features make it popular amongst tennis players of all sorts.

Weighing just 44 pounds, the machine is one of the lightest on the market. The lightweight makes it suitable for transporting to and from the court, and even in and out of your trunk.

The lightweight profile and ergonomic design don’t just make the machine practical, but they also make it look appealing.

Unlike other tennis ball machines on the market, the Elite 2 doesn’t look too clunky. Mounted on extra-large wheels, it’s also easy to wheel the launcher around the court.

With a feed rate of between 2 and 10 seconds, the Elite 2 simulates the motion of a real player. It can fire out the ball at a speed of between 20 and 80mph and can be adjusted to suit your training requirements.

Like the Elite 1, the Elite 2 has a 150-ball hopper to maximize time on the court without needing to refill. The machine is battery-powered, and the charger is included with your purchase. When the battery is fully charged it has a backup time of between 4 and 8 hours, depending on how intensely you use the machine.

The Good

Like all tennis ball machines, the Lobster Elite 2 has its pros and cons. Below, we explore some of its key features.

+ Good Value for Money

Compared with similar machines on the market, the Elite 2 boasts great value for money. The machine is reasonably priced and offers plenty of interesting features to improve your playing experience. The launcher comes with everything you’ll need to get started, including the battery charger at no additional cost. Providing that you’ve got a tennis racket and enough balls, you can use the Elite 2 right away.

+ Innovative Oscillation

To improve your gameplay, the Lobster Elite 2 comes with an innovative oscillation feature. The feature includes three variations: side to side, forward and backward, and combo. Below, we explore these in more detail.

Side to Side: During Side to Side oscillation, the machine can feed the balls smoothly from side to side. If you want to mimic the movement of a real opponent, this feature is a must-have.

Forward & Backward: To make you travel forward and backward on the court, the Elite 2 boasts forward and backward oscillation. When turned on, this feature feeds the ballers deeper into the court.

Combo: The combo function provides the best of both worlds. Combining the two oscillations, this feature provides the side to side and forward and backward modes simultaneously.

+ Speed & Feed Rate

The Elite 2 boasts variable ball speed and feed rate. The machine fires out the balls at a speed of 20-80mph. This is more than enough for both beginners and advanced level players, as the speed can be adjusted to suit your preference.

The feed rate can be set as low as 2 seconds or as high as 10. This is the same as the Isam Ultimate Tennis Ball Machine, the Lobster Sports Elite Freedom Machine, and the Lobster Sports Elite 3 Tennis Ball Machine. Both the speed and feed rate can be adjusted via the easy-to-use control panel.

+ Adjustable Spin and Elevation

If you want to challenge yourself on the court, you’ll need a machine with a good level of topspin. Thankfully, the Lobster Elite 2 provides just that. The elevation can be adjusted between 0 and 60 degrees to provide a realistic on-court experience. Like the other settings, these can be adjusted via the control panel or the remote which can be purchased separately.

+ Impressive Power

Like the Lobster Elite 1, the Elite 2 has an impressive battery life. When it’s fully charged, the battery has a backup time of between 4 and 8 hours depending on use. If you want to enjoy a longer session, you can transform your Elite 2 so that it runs from AC. To do this, all you need to do is purchase the AC power unit and plug the machine in!

The Bad

Here are some downsides to the Lobster Elite 2.

– Additional Cost

If you want to transform your machine into an AC powered launcher, you’ll need to purchase the AC power unit separately. While this isn’t a necessity, it’s a great option for those who want to play for a long time without worrying about the battery.

You can also purchase a remote to use with the Lobster Elite 2, however, this is also sold separately. While this isn’t uncommon, it would be nice is the remote came as part of the package.

Material & Construction

The body and ball holders of the Lobster Elite 2 are made out of hard-wearing plastic. This keeps the machine lightweight while also maximizing durability. The launcher also comes with a 2-years solid warranty against manufacturing defects, which is a bonus.

Who Is It For?

With fully customizable settings, the Elite 2 is suitable for tennis players of all levels. Regardless of whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced level tennis athlete, the Elite 2 will help to improve your skills.

Verdict

Overall, the Lobster Elite 2 is a mid-level ball machine with several great features. The machine gives you a taste of how it feels to play a professional game, without the need for a real opponent. If you’re looking to improve your tennis skills without breaking the bank, this launcher will suit you perfectly.

Our Rating: 9.8 out of 10 stars

Lobster Elite 1 Review

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.

Lobster Elite 1 Review

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.

Ace Attack Tennis Ball Serving Machine Review

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.