Head-to-Head Comparison

Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX vs Paddletek Tempest TKO-C

The Paddletek Tempest TKO-C scores 8.6 and the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX scores 8.5 on our spec-based rating scale. Calculated from each maker’s published specs; we don’t play-test paddles.

Ratings Head to Head

Paddletek Bantam TKO-CXPaddletek Tempest TKO-C
Power9.59
Control7.58
Spin9.59.5
Sweet spot7.58
Research score8.58.6

Which Suits Your Game?

Player typePaddletek Bantam TKO-CXPaddletek Tempest TKO-C
Beginners8.08.3
Touch players8.18.4
Power hitters8.88.8
Spin players8.99.0

Weighted from the four ratings. How these are weighted

Key Differences

  • The biggest gap is power: the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX rates 9.5 to the Paddletek Tempest TKO-C’s 9.
  • Control goes to the Paddletek Tempest TKO-C (8 vs 7.5).
  • The Paddletek Tempest TKO-C also leads on sweet spot, 8 to 7.5.
  • They tie on spin (9.5).
  • Core thickness: 12.7 mm or 14.3 mm (scored at 12.7 mm) for the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX against 14.3 mm for the Paddletek Tempest TKO-C. The thinner Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX should give more pop; thicker cores lean toward control.
  • Price: the Paddletek Tempest TKO-C costs less at each brand’s own store.

The Verdict

Go with the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX if you want more power.

Pick the Paddletek Tempest TKO-C if you want more control, a bigger sweet spot and a lower price, especially if you’re a beginner or a touch player.

Specs Side by Side

SpecPaddletek Bantam TKO-CXPaddletek Tempest TKO-C
Weight7.7–8.1 oz7.8–8.2 oz
ShapeElongatedElongated
Length16.5 in16.5 in
Width7.5 in7.5 in
Core thickness12.7 mm or 14.3 mm (scored at 12.7 mm)14.3 mm
CoreBantam QRT (Quick Response Technology) polymer coreSRT (Smart Response Technology) polymer core
FacePT-700 unidirectional raw carbon fiber (Toray 700)PT-700 unidirectional raw carbon fiber (Toray 700)
Handle length5.75 in5.25 in
Grip sizeNot published by PaddletekNot published by Paddletek
Price$199.99$149.99
USA Pickleball approvedYesYes

Specs as published by each manufacturer. Prices are checked daily on each brand’s own store; the checkout price is final.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX or the Paddletek Tempest TKO-C?

On our spec-based scale the Paddletek Tempest TKO-C scores higher (8.6 vs 8.5). By player type, the Paddletek Tempest TKO-C suits beginners and touch players better.

Which has more power, the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX or the Paddletek Tempest TKO-C?

The Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX rates higher for power on our scale (9.5 vs 9).

Which is better for beginners, the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX or the Paddletek Tempest TKO-C?

The Paddletek Tempest TKO-C scores higher for beginners (8.3 vs 8.0), mainly from its sweet spot and control ratings.

Are the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX and Paddletek Tempest TKO-C approved for tournament play?

Yes. Both are on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list.

More Head-to-Head Comparisons

Compare every paddle in one table

Next Step

Compare More Paddles

Line up to four paddles side by side on the same research scale.