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Review · Outdoors & sports

Paddletek Bantam TS-5 review

Paddletek's lightweight widebody control paddle, a lighter version of its Bantam EX-L.

By the HearSmart research desk · Updated November 11, 2026

Performance (40%)
7.8
Ease of use (25%)
8.8
Value (35%)
8.2

The Bantam TS-5 is the lightweight member of Paddletek's Bantam line, described by the company as a lighter version of the Bantam EX-L. Paddletek lists a static weight of 7.0 to 7.5 oz and lets buyers choose a specific weight within that range, with each paddle within a tenth of an ounce. The widebody shape measures 16 by 8 inches, the core is a 12.7mm Bantam PolyCore, and the handle is 5 inches long. On Paddletek's own performance chart the TS-5 sits on the control side with a large sweet spot. That combination makes it a sensible paddle for newer players, players with sore elbows or anyone who wants quick hands at the kitchen line. The cost of a light paddle is less weight behind drives and less stability on hard volleys. We could not confirm a US dollar price from our location, so check the price on Paddletek's site.

Who it is for

players who want a light paddle that is easy on the arm

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

  • Static weight of 7.0 to 7.5 oz, sold by tenth of an ounce
  • Widebody shape, 16 by 8 inches
  • 12.7mm Bantam PolyCore
  • 5 inch handle
  • Paddletek rates it as a control paddle with a large sweet spot

Strengths and weaknesses

  • Strength: Lightest paddle on this list
  • Strength: 8 inch wide face for forgiving contact
  • Strength: Paddletek lets you pick an exact weight from 7.0 to 7.5 oz
  • Weakness: Price did not display in US dollars from our location, so it is not verified
  • Weakness: Thin 12.7mm core and light weight give less plow-through on drives
  • Weakness: 5 inch handle is shorter than the elongated paddles here

Key facts

  • Price: USD check pending
  • Core: 12.7mm Bantam PolyCore
  • Weight: 7.0 to 7.5 oz
  • Shape: Widebody, 16 x 8 in
  • Handle: 5 in

Where it ranks

Paddletek Bantam TS-5 is No. 6 in our Best Pickleball Paddles verdict.

Alternatives we scored

Visit paddletek.com · Questions or corrections: editorial@hearsmart.org