Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX
Best discount code for this paddle: Use code KITCHEN for 10% off
- Shape
- Elongated
- Core Thickness
- 14mm
- Core Type
- Gen 1
- Handle Length
- Long
- Certification
- Dual Certified
- Price
- $199.99
Our take on the Bantam TKO-CX
Paddletek made a huge splash with its updated Bantam paddles in 2024 after going over a year without a new release. The TKO-CX stands out in the line with an extra long handle, which is what a majority of top players want as two-handed backhands have become more prevalent. The long handle also lets players whip through the hitting zone faster, generating more power and more spin. This paddle is a natural choice for singles players.
Paddletek released a new shape of the Bantam series — the GTO-C — in 2025. While we liked the hybrid shape of the GTO-C, we still think the original TKO-CX is the better of the two paddles.
Is the Bantam TKO-CX worth $199.99?
Yes. At $199.99 it sits in the high price range, and the Bantam line has a strong reputation with serious players for pop on drives and in hands battles. It is also one of the few high-performance paddles still made in the USA.
Who should buy the Bantam TKO-CX?
Serious players and singles players who want power and use a two-handed backhand, since the extra-long handle lets you whip through the hitting zone faster. A high 7.4 twist weight keeps it stable. Players who want a lighter, quicker paddle may prefer other shapes.
Buy it if
- You hit a two-handed backhand
- You play mostly singles
- You want pop on drives and in hands battles
- You want a USA-made performance paddle
Skip it if
- You prefer a low swing weight
- You want a plush, thick-core feel
- You prefer a hybrid shape like the GTO-C
- You need heavy spin from the face
How does the Bantam TKO-CX play?
Power is high, with real pop on drives and in hands battles. The long handle helps you whip through the hitting zone for extra racket speed, and the 14mm thickness adds pop on top. The 123 swing weight puts plow-through mass behind each swing.
What are the strengths and trade-offs of the Bantam TKO-CX?
Its biggest edge is pop plus long-handle whip for power. The main cost is a heavy 123 swing weight and a face that is light on spin.
Strengths
- Pop on drives and in hands battles
- Extra-long handle for whip and two-handers
- High twist weight for off-center stability
- Still made in the USA
Trade-offs
- Heavy at a 123 swing weight
- Spin is its weak point
- Thin 14mm core gives less cushion
Not sure yet? Compare the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX against any paddle
See their stats, price and playability side by side
Questions people ask about the Bantam TKO-CX
Is the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX a good paddle?
Yes. The Bantam line is widely regarded as a top-tier choice for serious players, known for pop on drives and in hands battles.
Which Paddletek paddle is the best?
The Bantam TKO-C and TKO-CX, designed with pro Christian Alshon, are Paddletek's power paddles, while the Honeyfoam line is its flagship foam series.
What is the swing weight of the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX?
123, which is high, with a very high 7.4 twist weight. It's a 14mm elongated paddle with a long handle.
How much does the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX cost?
$199.99, which puts it in the high price range for pickleball paddles. It's one of the few high-performance paddles still made in the USA.
Is the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX USAP approved?
Yes, it's approved by both USA Pickleball and the UPA-A, so it's legal in any sanctioned tournament.
Which pros use Paddletek?
Zane Navratil, Riley Newman, Connor Garnett, Christian Alshon, Jorja Johnson and Tyra Black are on Team Paddletek.
What are some Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX alternatives?
Holbrook Fuze VantaGrit
Power 95Spin 99
16mm Gen 4 · Swing weight 118
How we test every paddle
Why trust our ratings? Every paddle is played by Team Kitchen, our team of expert paddle reviewers, and measured on the same scale before we rate it.
- Expert reviewers. All 5.0+ players, testing alongside other high-level players in their area.
- Hours of drills and games. Every kind of shot, in real points, to see how a paddle plays in a match and not just on paper.
- Measured on the same scale. Power, spin, swing weight and twist weight for every paddle, so any two compare fairly. The Bantam TKO-CX measured power 81, spin 48, swing weight 123 and twist weight 7.4.
- One ball for every test. The Life Time LT Pro 48.