When it comes to professional padel, choosing the right racket is crucial. Should you go for a round or teardrop-shaped racket? Let’s find out.

Round and teardrop-shaped¹ padel rackets are popular among pros for their balance of control and power, catering to both aggressive and technical styles.

Choosing between round and teardrop rackets can be a game-changer in your padel career. Read on to understand the key differences and which one suits professionals best.

Are round padel rackets good?

Round padel rackets are known for their control. But are they good for professional-level play?

Round padel rackets provide excellent control and precision, making them a popular choice for defensive players and those who prioritize consistency.

In professional padel, control is often more critical than sheer power. Round rackets have a centralized sweet spot², allowing players to make more precise shots and maintain accuracy. While they offer less power than other shapes, their versatility makes them ideal for players who focus on skill and strategy rather than raw power.

Control vs. Power

Feature	Round Racket	Other Racket Shapes
Sweet Spot	Centralized, forgiving	Top or off-center
Power	Moderate	High
Control	High	Lower
Ideal Player	Defensive, precision-focused	Offensive, power-focused

For professional players who excel at rallying and outmaneuvering their opponents, round rackets provide the necessary control to execute flawless shots. However, they might not deliver the same raw power needed for aggressive attacks.

Which padel rackets do professionals use?

Professionals have specific preferences when it comes to padel rackets. So, which ones do they typically choose?

Top professional players often use teardrop³ or round rackets, depending on their playing style—offensive players lean towards teardrop, while defensive players prefer round.

Professional padel players often opt for rackets that offer a balance of control and power. Round rackets are preferred by players who prioritize control and consistency, while teardrop-shaped rackets offer a bit more power without losing too much control. Ultimately⁴, the choice depends on whether the player’s game style leans more towards defense or offense.

Professional Preferences

Player Type	Racket Type	Racket Characteristics
Offensive Players	Teardrop, Diamond	High power, moderate control
Defensive Players	Round, Teardrop	High control, moderate power
All-round Players	Teardrop, Round	Balance of both

Most professional players choose their rackets based on personal preferences, with some choosing round rackets for their control or teardrop models for their ability to balance both power and precision.

What is the difference between teardrop and round padel rackets?

Teardrop and round rackets are common, but what sets them apart? Let’s break it down.

Teardrop padel rackets offer a good mix of power and control, while round rackets excel at control but offer less power.

The primary difference between teardrop and round rackets lies in the shape and sweet spot. Round rackets focus on control with a more forgiving central sweet spot, while teardrop rackets offer a more elongated sweet spot located slightly higher up the frame. This gives teardrop rackets more power while still maintaining control, making them a popular choice for attacking players.

Shape and Sweet Spot

Racket Type	Sweet Spot Location	Power	Control
Round Racket	Centralized	Moderate	High
Teardrop Racket	Off-center, top-oriented	Medium to High	Moderate

The teardrop shape provides a better balance between power and control, which is ideal for players who want to both attack and defend with precision. Round rackets, on the other hand, are perfect for players who rely on control and technical shots.

Is teardrop padel racket good for beginners?

Beginners often need a racket that balances control and power. Is a teardrop racket the right choice?

Teardrop rackets can be a good option for beginners⁵, as they offer a balance of power and control that helps improve overall performance.

Teardrop rackets are versatile and can suit a wide range of players, including beginners. The slightly off-center sweet spot offers more power than a round racket, making it easier for newer players to execute aggressive shots. At the same time, they provide enough control for defensive shots. This makes them a solid choice for those just starting out in padel.

Teardrop for Beginners

Feature	Teardrop Racket	Round Racket
Sweet Spot	Off-center, top-oriented	Centralized
Power	Medium to High	Moderate
Control	Moderate	High
Ideal Player	Beginner to Intermediate	Beginner to Advanced

While teardrop rackets are generally easier for beginners to wield, it’s important to pick one that matches your developing style of play. As you progress, you may find yourself leaning toward either teardrop or round, depending on whether you value power or control.

Conclusion

Teardrop and round rackets are both suitable for pro-level play, each offering unique advantages based on the player’s style.