The Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX is a power paddle with a clever angle. Co-designed with pro Christian Alshon, it delivers the kind of pop and spin you’d expect from a thermoformed paddle, but it uses a classic honeycomb core, so it won’t suffer the core-crush problems that plague many hard-hitting paddles. The “X” means an extended handle built for two-handed backhands. Here’s who it fits, how it plays, and whether it belongs in your bag.
Verdict
Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX
A US-made power and spin paddle with an extended handle for two-handers, big pop, and a durable honeycomb core that won’t crush.
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Big power and spin
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Long two-hand handle
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Durable, no core crush
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Heavier, slower at net
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Takes time to unlock
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Premium price
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Specs
| Spec | Detail |
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| Shape | Elongated |
| Core | 12.7 mm or 14.3 mm Bantam polymer honeycomb |
| Face | PT-700 raw carbon fiber |
| Length | 16.45 in |
| Width | 7.5 in |
| Handle length | 5.75 in |
| Grip size | 4.25 in |
| Weight | 7.7 to 8.2 oz |
| Made in | USA |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime |
| Approval | USAP approved |
Performance
Power
Power is the headline. The TKO-CX ranks among the hardest-hitting paddles around, with a thin, energetic core and a fiberglass layer under the carbon that springs the ball off the face. The elongated shape and long handle add leverage, so drives and overhead put-aways come off with serious pace. It takes a few sessions to learn how to harness that power, but once you do, it hits like a rocket.
Control
Control is solid for a paddle this aggressive, largely because it isn’t thermoformed. The honeycomb core gives a more controlled, forgiving response than many stiff power paddles, so you can switch gears and absorb pace at the net when needed. It still leans power-first and rewards a confident hand, but it’s more manageable in the soft game than its pop alone would suggest.
Spin
Spin is excellent, the best Paddletek makes. The PT-700 raw carbon face has a textured, unidirectional weave that grips the ball hard, putting it among the stronger spin paddles out there. You can load up heavy topspin to keep your drives in and bite your slices low. Combined with the power, that spin lets you swing aggressively while keeping the ball on the court.
Feel
Feel is firm and poppy, with a focus on durability. Because it uses a honeycomb core rather than foam or a thermoformed build, it resists the core crush that makes many power paddles go dead, and Paddletek backs it with a lifetime warranty. The thinner 12.7mm version can feel a touch hollow, while the 14.3mm is plusher. The main trade-off is weight: the long handle and high swing weight make it slower at the net.
Best For
The TKO-CX is a great match for intermediate to advanced all-court players who lean toward power and, crucially, hit a two-handed backhand, since the extended handle is the whole point of the CX. It’s also a smart pick for players who want big power and spin but are tired of paddles losing their pop over time, thanks to the durable core. Players who want quick hands at the net, a lighter paddle, or who don’t need the long handle will likely be happier with the standard TKO-C.
Comparison
vs. Paddletek Bantam ALW-C
Against the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C, the two are siblings with different shapes and pros behind them. The ALW-C is square-shaped, lighter, and quicker at the net, while the TKO-CX is elongated with more reach, more power, and a longer handle. The ALW-C suits players who want speed and a bigger sweet spot, the TKO-CX those who want power and a two-handed backhand handle.
vs. JOOLA Perseus Pro IV
Against the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV, both are elongated power paddles, but they’re built differently. The Perseus is thermoformed for an explosive feel, while the TKO-CX gets similar power and spin from a honeycomb core that resists core crush. The TKO-CX is often recommended as a durable alternative to thermoformed power paddles for exactly that reason.
Value
For a power player who wants the long handle, it’s a strong value despite the premium price. You’re getting a US-made paddle with elite power, top-tier spin, and a lifetime warranty, plus a durable core that won’t go dead the way many power paddles do. That longevity can make it cheaper to own over time. The value case is weakest if you don’t need the extended handle, since the lighter, quicker TKO-C costs the same and suits more players.
Final
The Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX is a confident, hard-hitting paddle that pairs elite power and spin with a durability edge most power paddles can’t match. The extended handle makes it a natural for two-handed backhands, and the honeycomb core means it won’t crush out like many thermoformed rivals. With only its net-speed and a learning curve holding it back, it’s an excellent choice for advanced power players who want their pop to last.
FAQs
What is the difference between the TKO-CX and TKO-C?
The CX has an extended 5.75-inch handle built for two-handed backhands, which also adds a bit more weight, swing weight, and power. The standard TKO-C has a shorter 5.3-inch handle, making it lighter and quicker at the net. They’re otherwise the same paddle, so the choice comes down to handle length.
What is the difference between the 12.7mm and 14.3mm TKO-CX?
The 12.7mm version has a thinner core for more power and a poppier feel, though it can feel slightly hollow. The 14.3mm version has a thicker core for more control and a plusher, more cushioned feel. Both deliver strong spin, so the choice is about balancing power and control.
Is the TKO-CX a good alternative to banned JOOLA Gen 3 paddles?
Yes, it’s frequently recommended as one. It delivers similar power and spin to thermoformed Gen 3 paddles, but because it uses a honeycomb core rather than a thermoformed build, it resists the core crush that affected many of those paddles, so it stays consistent longer.
Is the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX good for two-handed backhands?
Yes, that’s exactly what it’s designed for. The extended 5.75-inch handle gives you plenty of room to fit both hands comfortably, and the elongated shape adds reach. If you hit a two-handed backhand, the CX is the version of the Bantam to choose.
Is the TKO-CX good for spin?
Yes, it offers the best spin of any Paddletek paddle. The PT-700 raw carbon face has a textured weave that grips the ball well, putting it among the stronger spin paddles available. That spin pairs naturally with its power for aggressive, controlled drives.
