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.

Paddletek
Paddletek Tempest TKO-C
Players who want elongated reach and spin for less
Ratings Head to Head
Which Suits Your Game?
| Player type | Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX | Paddletek Tempest TKO-C |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | 8.0 | 8.3 |
| Touch players | 8.1 | 8.4 |
| Power hitters | 8.8 | 8.8 |
| Spin players | 8.9 | 9.0 |
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
| Spec | Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX | Paddletek Tempest TKO-C |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.7–8.1 oz | 7.8–8.2 oz |
| Shape | Elongated | Elongated |
| Length | 16.5 in | 16.5 in |
| Width | 7.5 in | 7.5 in |
| Core thickness | 12.7 mm or 14.3 mm (scored at 12.7 mm) | 14.3 mm |
| Core | Bantam QRT (Quick Response Technology) polymer core | SRT (Smart Response Technology) polymer core |
| Face | PT-700 unidirectional raw carbon fiber (Toray 700) | PT-700 unidirectional raw carbon fiber (Toray 700) |
| Handle length | 5.75 in | 5.25 in |
| Grip size | Not published by Paddletek | Not published by Paddletek |
| Price | $199.99 | $149.99 |
| USA Pickleball approved | Yes | Yes |
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
- Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX vs HEAD Radical TOUR EX15 →
- Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX vs CRBN³ TruFoam Barrage (Elongated) →
- Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX vs Paddletek Bantam TKO-C →
- Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX vs Paddletek Honeyfoam TKO-X →
- Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX vs Paddletek Bantam GTO-C →
- Paddletek Tempest TKO-C vs Onix Praxis →

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