Head-to-Head Comparison

Volair CTRL 1 Forza vs Volair Mach 2 Forza

The Volair Mach 2 Forza scores 8.9 and the Volair CTRL 1 Forza 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

Volair CTRL 1 ForzaVolair Mach 2 Forza
Power8.58
Control8.59.5
Spin7.58
Sweet spot9.510
Research score8.58.9

Which Suits Your Game?

Player typeVolair CTRL 1 ForzaVolair Mach 2 Forza
Beginners8.89.3
Touch players8.69.2
Power hitters8.58.6
Spin players8.28.5

Weighted from the four ratings. How these are weighted

Key Differences

  • The biggest gap is control: the Volair Mach 2 Forza rates 9.5 to the Volair CTRL 1 Forza’s 8.5.
  • On power, the Volair CTRL 1 Forza is ahead: 8.5 vs 8.
  • The Volair Mach 2 Forza also leads on spin, 8 to 7.5.
  • Sweet spot goes to the Volair Mach 2 Forza (10 vs 9.5).
  • Different shapes: the Volair CTRL 1 Forza is hybrid and the Volair Mach 2 Forza is wide-body.
  • Weight: the Volair CTRL 1 Forza is the heavier of the two, by about 0.3 oz on average.
  • Price: the Volair Mach 2 Forza costs less at each brand’s own store.

The Verdict

Choose the Volair CTRL 1 Forza if you want more power and more weight behind the ball.

Go with the Volair Mach 2 Forza if you want more control, more spin and a bigger sweet spot, especially if you’re a beginner or a touch player.

Buy at VolairBuy at Volair

Specs Side by Side

SpecVolair CTRL 1 ForzaVolair Mach 2 Forza
Weight8.1 oz average8.0 oz average (14 mm: 7.7 oz)
ShapeHybridWide-body
Length16.35 in15.88 in
Width7.5 in8.12 in
Core thickness16 mm16 mm (14 mm version also available)
CorePolypropylene honeycombPolypropylene honeycomb with foam-injected edge walls
FaceAramid fiberToray T700 carbon fiber
Handle length5.5 in5.5 in
Grip size4.15 in4.15 in
Price$139.99$119.99
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 Volair CTRL 1 Forza or the Volair Mach 2 Forza?

On our spec-based scale the Volair Mach 2 Forza scores higher (8.9 vs 8.5). By player type, the Volair Mach 2 Forza suits beginners, touch players and spin players better.

Which has more power, the Volair CTRL 1 Forza or the Volair Mach 2 Forza?

The Volair CTRL 1 Forza rates higher for power on our scale (8.5 vs 8).

Which is better for beginners, the Volair CTRL 1 Forza or the Volair Mach 2 Forza?

The Volair Mach 2 Forza scores higher for beginners (9.3 vs 8.8), mainly from its sweet spot and control ratings.

Are the Volair CTRL 1 Forza and Volair Mach 2 Forza approved for tournament play?

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

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