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