Paddletek ALW-C 12.7mm and 14.3mm Pickleball Paddle Review

Introduction

When the top pickleball player in the world, Anna Leigh Waters, plays with a particular paddle, it’s hard not to pay attention. As a phenom who became the world’s number one at just 16, Anna Leigh has helped Paddletek refine the Bantam ALW-C series, bringing power, speed, and control to the forefront of paddle technology. Naturally, I was excited to dive into a detailed review of these paddles—especially the Bantam ALW-C 12.7mm and 14.3mm, which Anna Leigh herself uses.

This review covers the technical aspects, playability, and overall performance of these paddles after thorough testing. From indoor matches with my regular group to competitive league play, I put these paddles to the test in various scenarios to see how they stack up. The ALW-C paddles promise a blend of power and finesse with their PT-700 unidirectional carbon fiber face and Bantam core technology, so I was eager to explore whether they truly deliver that coveted mix of power and control.

Whether you're an aggressive player looking for quick volleys and hard drives or someone who loves to dominate with controlled dinks at the kitchen, this review will help you determine which of the two paddles is best suited to your game.

Testing the Paddletek Bantam ALW Series

Imagine this: two featherlight paddles land in my hands—one 12.7mm thick, the other 14.3mm. Both feel so light, they make you question if gravity still applies.

Friday: I grab the 12.7mm, and it’s like wielding Thor’s hammer in pickleball form. My serves are blazing at 37 MPH, resets are as smooth as ever, and I’m playing lights out. This might just be my new go-to.

Saturday: Things are still going strong with the 12.7mm, but it’s not feeling as invincible. The power’s there, no doubt, but I’m noticing the control is starting to slip a bit.

Sunday: The 12.7mm starts showing its true colors—still powerful but much more demanding. It needs precision and focus. Meanwhile, the 14.3mm steps in as the steadier option. It’s more forgiving, easier to manage during long rallies, and feels like the smarter choice when I need to dial back the intensity.

Monday: It’s league night, and the 12.7mm is starting to feel like a handful. It’s making me work hard for every point. The 14.3mm, however, offers more reliability. It doesn’t have the same explosive pop, but its thicker core provides consistent, steady play, especially during fast exchanges.

The Takeaway: Both paddles have a stiff, precise feel. The 12.7mm delivers more raw power but requires more precision and finesse. The 14.3mm, on the other hand, is more forgiving and easier to control, making it ideal for players who prefer a balanced game. While both are fun to play with, the 12.7mm is a bit more temperamental and demanding, whereas the 14.3mm is the steady performer I could count on for control and consistency.

I tested both the Bantam ALW-C 12.7mm and 14.3mm paddles over two solid weeks of play, mixing casual games with more competitive league matches. This gave me a clear sense of how each paddle handled varying pressure and intensity. Throughout the process, the 14.3mm became my main paddle due to its exceptional balance of control and power.

Comparing the ALW Paddles: During testing, I regularly rotated between the ALW paddles and other top-tier paddles in my collection, like the CRBN 2X 14mm and Ronbus Ripple R1 and R2. The CRBN 2X felt lighter and easier to control, while the ALW 12.7mm packed more explosive power, particularly on volleys and drives. The Ronbus paddles, with their Gen 3 thermoformed and trampoline effect build, felt different, but the 12.7mm stood out for its sharp pop and fast handling in quick exchanges.

Feedback from Other Players: To get a broader perspective, I had a few of my regular partners try out both ALW paddles. Aggressive players were drawn to the 12.7mm, enjoying its speed and power in hard-hitting volleys, though they acknowledged it demanded more finesse for soft shots. In contrast, the 14.3mm paddle was a hit with players who focused on control, particularly at the kitchen. One friend even commented that the 14.3mm gave her better pop and control than her Pik Ninja Revenant, especially when it came to managing resets and dinks. This feedback confirmed my own experience: the 12.7mm is ideal for aggressive styles, while the 14.3mm suits players who emphasize touch and finesse.

In-Depth Playing Experience

Both Paddletek Bantam ALW-C paddles offer unique playing experiences, with each one excelling in different areas of the game. After extensive testing, the distinct qualities of the 12.7mm and 14.3mm paddles became clear, particularly in how they handle touch shots, volleys, and power drives.

Dinks and Kitchen Play: The 14.3mm model quickly established itself as the kitchen favorite. Its thicker core helped soften ball impact, giving me more control during dinks and resets. The paddle’s forgiving sweet spot also made it easier to keep the ball low and unattackable, especially in longer exchanges. By contrast, the 12.7mm paddle demanded a more delicate touch. Its quicker response and thinner core meant that I had to dial in my touch more carefully to avoid popping the ball up, but once I adjusted, it performed admirably in offensive kitchen play.

Volleys and Fast Exchanges: When it came to volleys, the 12.7mm model truly shined. Its faster swing weight allowed me to react quickly, turning defensive shots into offensive opportunities at the net. However, this paddle’s sharp response made it less forgiving on off-center hits, requiring more precision during high-speed volleys. The 14.3mm, on the other hand, provided a more stable feel during fast exchanges, absorbing more of the ball’s impact and giving me greater confidence to keep the ball in play during rapid rallies.

Third Shot Drops and Drives: For third-shot drops, the 14.3mm excelled. Its thicker core made it easier to control the ball’s arc and land soft, unattackable drops in the kitchen. In contrast, the 12.7mm paddle was a powerhouse when it came to third-shot drives. Its quicker response and extra pop allowed me to hit deep shots that forced my opponents back, setting me up for more offensive plays. While both paddles performed well in these areas, the 14.3mm was the more reliable option for soft resets, whereas the 12.7mm thrived in aggressive drives.

Serves and Power Shots: On serves, the 12.7mm paddle was a standout performer. Its thinner core and extra power helped me generate more depth and speed on my serves, with an average serve speed of 37 MPH. The 14.3mm, while still effective, delivered more consistency and control, particularly for players who prefer placement over power. The 12.7mm also excelled in power shots, where its quick response allowed me to deliver powerful smashes and drives, while the 14.3mm balanced power with control for a more all-around performance.

Who Will Like This Paddle

Both the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7 and 14.3 paddles cater to different types of players, making each one suitable for specific playing styles and skill levels. Whether you’re focused on explosive power or a balanced, all-court game, one of these paddles is likely to fit your needs.

Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7

The 12.7mm model is ideal for aggressive players who thrive on fast-paced, power-driven gameplay. Its thinner core and stiff carbon fiber surface offer a combination of speed, pop, and spin that advanced players will appreciate.

Who Will Like the 12.7mm:

• Aggressive, Offensive Players: If you like to dominate with powerful serves, smashes, and third-shot drives, the 12.7 will complement your style. It’s designed for those who want to generate maximum force and speed.
• Advanced Players: This paddle is more demanding due to its smaller sweet spot and need for precise control, making it better suited for experienced players who can harness its power while maintaining accuracy.
• Spin Enthusiasts: With its impressive spin potential (2226 RPM), players who rely on topspin, slices, and other spin-heavy shots will enjoy the responsiveness of the 12.7.
• Quick Reaction Players: Its lightweight nature and faster swing speed make it perfect for fast volley exchanges and quick hand battles at the net.

Who Might Struggle with the 12.7mm:

• Beginner or Intermediate Players: The 12.7mm can be difficult to control, especially for players who aren’t yet comfortable with smaller sweet spots and the precise touch needed for resets and dinks.
• Players Who Rely on Soft Shots: If your game revolves around controlled resets, dinks, and shot placement, the power-focused 12.7 might feel too reactive, especially during delicate kitchen play.

Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 14.3

The 14.3mm version offers a balanced blend of power and control, making it ideal for players who enjoy a versatile, all-court style. The thicker core provides more forgiveness and control, especially in soft shot situations, without sacrificing much in the way of power.

Who Will Like the 14.3mm:

• All-Court Players: If you’re someone who likes to transition between offensive and defensive play—mixing hard drives with soft resets and touch shots—the 14.3mm offers a perfect balance. Make no mistake, it is still powerful — just not quite as powerful as its sibling.
• Players Who Prioritize Control: With a larger sweet spot and more forgiveness, this paddle makes it easier to manage delicate dinks, resets, and third-shot drops. It’s ideal for players who spend a lot of time at the kitchen.
• Intermediate to Advanced Players: While easier to control than the 12.7, the 14.3mm still caters to intermediate and advanced players who can appreciate its blend of power and finesse.
• Players Seeking Stability: The thicker core and higher swing weight provide added stability during longer rallies, helping you stay in control during fast exchanges without losing precision.

Who Might Struggle with the 14.3mm:

• Pure Power Hitters: If you’re solely focused on generating maximum pop and power, the 14.3mm may feel a little too controlled, lacking the raw explosiveness of the 12.7mm.
• Players Seeking Ultra-Light Paddles: While not heavy, the 14.3mm has a bit more swing weight compared to the 12.7mm, which might feel a bit slower in rapid net exchanges for players used to ultra-light paddles.

Aesthetics & Design

The Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7 and 14.3 paddles stand out visually and structurally, reflecting both form and function in their design. Sleek and modern, these paddles are designed to catch the eye while offering high performance.

The minimalist look of the paddles exudes a professional edge, with subtle graphics that highlight their high-performance capabilities. Both paddles feature the signature Paddletek logo prominently displayed at the top, with the Bantam series logo and Anna Leigh Waters' branding at the bottom, ensuring that players are constantly reminded they are wielding a top-tier paddle endorsed by the world’s number one player.

Design Elements & Their Impact on Performance

1. Color & Finish: The dark, matte carbon fiber face of both paddles is accentuated with bright accents—blue for the 12.7 and purple for the 14.3—which creates a striking contrast. This gives the paddles a refined, sleek appearance that matches the serious performance they deliver on the court.
2. Exposed Carbon Fiber Face: The unidirectional PT-700 Carbon Fiber surface gives the paddles a modern, high-tech aesthetic while providing a rough texture for increased spin. This blend of performance and visual appeal highlights the advanced materials used in these paddles, making them both attractive and functional. The clean, angular design of the face and handle reinforces a sense of precision and purpose.
3. White Edge Guard & Handle: The bright white edge guard and matching handle wrap are not only visually distinct but serve functional purposes. The 1/8" Shot Protection Edge Guard adds durability without compromising the balance of the paddle. Meanwhile, the Ultra Cushion High Tack Performance Grip provides a comfortable hold, making it easier to maintain control during intense gameplay.
4. Grip Length & Comfort: The 5.25" handle length offers extra room for players who prefer a two-handed backhand or want a more versatile grip style. The textured grip also ensures that the paddle feels secure and comfortable in hand, even during long, intense matches. The design choice of the grip’s white finish adds a fresh, clean look, though it may be prone to showing dirt over time.
5. Attention to Detail: The paddles’ overall craftsmanship reflects Paddletek’s attention to both design and durability. The ALW-C series paddles are not only built to perform but designed to last, with high-quality materials that provide resilience over extended use.

Visual Appeal vs. Performance

While aesthetics are always subjective, the refined design of the ALW-C paddles does more than look good—it contributes to overall performance. The PT-700 Carbon Fiber surface provides more than just an attractive finish. Its rough texture aids in spin generation, while the edge guard and grip enhancements contribute to comfort and durability during play.

Players who appreciate a clean, modern design paired with cutting-edge technology will feel right at home with these paddles. The ALW-C paddles deliver a visually appealing package that doesn’t sacrifice the essentials needed for competitive play.

Surface Texture

One of the most defining aspects of a paddle’s performance is its surface texture, which has a significant impact on spin generation, ball control, and the overall feel of each shot. Both the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7 and 14.3 paddles feature Paddletek’s proprietary PT-700 Unidirectional RAW Carbon Fiber surface. This advanced carbon fiber material is engineered to be more robust and powerful than the standard T-700 carbon fiber used in many paddles, resulting in enhanced durability and spin potential.

This textured surface is specifically designed for aggressive players who rely on topspin, slices, and spin-heavy shots to outplay their opponents. The coarse carbon fiber weave grips the ball upon contact, helping generate impressive spin for more controlled dinks, aggressive volleys, and deceptive serves. This makes the paddle especially effective for players looking to manipulate the ball’s trajectory.

In addition to the textured surface, these paddles are equipped with Carbon Steel Balls for perimeter weighting. This innovative feature improves balance and increases the size of the sweet spot, making it easier to maintain consistency—even on off-center hits. The result is a paddle that feels stable during play, with precise handling and a powerful yet controlled response.

The following magnified images provide a closer look at the textured surface of the paddle, illustrating how the tightly woven carbon fibers create friction that enhances ball control and spin.

This close-up view showcases the fine weave of the PT-700 RAW Carbon Fiber on the paddle’s face. The tightly packed fibers create a uniform, slightly rough texture that offers excellent friction on ball contact. This roughness is what helps generate the spin players rely on for topspin drives and sliced dinks.

This second image zooms in even further, showing the intricate grid-like structure of the PT-700 carbon fiber weave. The small gaps between the fibers increase grip on the ball, making it easier to apply spin and control the ball's trajectory in fast-paced rallies.

In this ultra-close magnification, you can see the individual carbon fiber strands up close. The coarse, textured finish of the paddle’s surface is designed to bite into the ball during contact, allowing for greater manipulation and improved accuracy, especially when generating topspin or backspin.

With this combination of advanced surface materials and thoughtful design elements like perimeter weighting, the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C paddles deliver an ideal mix of power, spin, and control—especially suited for players looking to elevate their game through spin manipulation and precise ball handling.

OEM Paddle Characteristics

The Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7 and 14.3 paddles stand apart due to their cutting-edge construction and proprietary materials, making them a standout choice for players looking for a performance boost. Here’s a breakdown of the key features and technologies used in these paddles, which Paddletek has optimized to deliver power, control, and durability.

Core Technology: Bantam Quick Response (QRT) Polymer Core

At the heart of both the 12.7mm and 14.3mm models is the Bantam Quick Response (QRT) Polymer Core. This core has been engineered to deliver progressive power—meaning that the harder you hit, the more energy the paddle returns. This dynamic response is crucial for players who shift between fast, aggressive drives and soft, controlled dinks. The core’s design also helps reduce vibration, giving the paddles a softer feel even during powerful hits.

Impact on Performance: The core is designed to offer controlled power, providing enough pop for offensive shots while remaining reliable in softer, touch-based exchanges. This makes both paddles highly versatile for all-court play.

Surface: PT-700 Unidirectional RAW Carbon Fiber

One of the standout features of the ALW-C series paddles is their use of PT-700 Unidirectional RAW Carbon Fiber for the face. This carbon fiber blend is proprietary to Paddletek and is said to be stronger and more powerful than the standard T-700 carbon fiber seen in many other paddles on the market. This material provides excellent friction, allowing for maximum spin generation on serves, slices, and topspin shots.

Impact on Performance: The textured PT-700 surface delivers impressive spin potential, particularly useful for players who rely on heavy topspin or undercuts to dominate points. Its rugged texture ensures a strong grip on the ball, offering more control during fast-paced exchanges.

Carbon Steel Twist Weight & Balance System

A unique feature of the Bantam ALW-C paddles is the Carbon Steel Twist Weight & Balance System. This system involves strategically placing small carbon steel balls around the perimeter of the paddle to expand the sweet spot and improve shot consistency, especially on off-center hits. This balance system ensures the paddle feels stable during play, reducing the likelihood of twisting or mishits.

Impact on Performance: By improving stability and sweet spot size, this system helps players maintain control, even during fast rallies or when returning hard-driven shots. For those who often hit off-center, this feature offers a more forgiving feel, keeping the paddle responsive and balanced.

Shot Protection Edge Guard System

Both paddles come equipped with Paddletek’s Shot Protection Edge Guard System. This slim yet durable edge guard is designed to absorb shock and reduce vibration, ensuring the longevity of the paddle without adding unnecessary bulk. While some edge guards on paddles can shift the balance, Paddletek's design keeps the paddles well-balanced and maintains their lightweight feel.

Impact on Performance: The edge guard protects the paddle from chipping and wear over time, ensuring it remains durable despite intense use. It also absorbs some of the vibration that could transfer to your hand during powerful shots, making the paddles more comfortable to use during long matches.

Weight and Balance Distribution

The ALW-C paddles are designed with balance in mind, with their weight distributed to offer both power and control. The 12.7mm version, with its thinner core, tends to feel faster in hand and is more responsive in rapid exchanges, while the 14.3mm version, with its thicker core, offers more stability and a slightly slower swing speed, ideal for players seeking precision in dinks and resets.

Impact on Performance: Players will notice that the 12.7mm model feels quicker, making it a great choice for players who like to engage in fast-paced volleys and quick attacks at the net. In contrast, the 14.3mm model offers more control in softer shots, making it ideal for players who want more touch around the kitchen.

Handle and Grip: Ultra Cushion High Tack Performance Grip

The handle on both the 12.7mm and 14.3mm paddles is outfitted with Paddletek’s Ultra Cushion High Tack Performance Grip, which provides a comfortable yet secure hold, even in sweaty conditions. The handle itself is slightly longer (5.25 inches), offering more space for players who prefer two-handed backhands or need extra reach during gameplay.

Impact on Performance: The cushioned grip helps prevent slipping during intense matches, and the slightly longer handle allows for greater versatility in grip styles, giving players more control over their shots.

Optimizing These Paddles

For players looking to get the most out of their Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7 and 14.3 paddles, small modifications can make a big difference, particularly in terms of control and power balance. While the 14.3 performed exceptionally well for me straight out of the box, the 12.7 benefitted from a bit of fine-tuning to increase its controllability.

Adding Weight to the 12.7 for Enhanced Control

The 12.7 model delivers tons of pop and power, but I found that adding a touch more weight improved its stability, making it easier to control during resets and volleys. To achieve this, I applied 3 grams of tungsten tape—3 inches of tape on both the right and left sides just above the handle. This adjustment provided just enough additional weight to help balance the paddle without drastically increasing its swing weight, keeping it maneuverable for fast-paced play.

I also experimented with adding 6 grams of tape on each side (6 inches total), but found that it made the paddle too heavy for my liking. The increased weight affected my timing and speed at the net, so I reverted to the lighter setup, which maintained the paddle’s pop while making it more controllable.

Anna Leigh's Perimeter Weighting Approach

Interestingly, Anna Leigh Waters reportedly adds weight around the entire perimeter of her paddle to maximize stability and sweet spot size. While this works for her game, I found that a similar setup was simply too much weight for me. Adding weight to the perimeter increases swing weight significantly, which is great for power shots, but not ideal if you want to maintain quick reflexes at the kitchen. For most recreational and competitive players, small, strategic weight adjustments will strike a better balance between power and control.

Playing the 14.3 Stock

In contrast, I’ve been playing the 14.3 without any modifications and have been very happy with its stock setup. The thicker core naturally provides more control, and the added forgiveness makes it easier to dial in shots without needing extra weight. The balance feels just right for my playing style, offering enough power for drives while maintaining touch for softer shots at the net.

Pricing & Value: Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7 and 14.3

When it comes to pricing, both the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7 and 14.3 paddles are priced at $249.99, reflecting a recent increase from their original price of $229.99. While this places these paddles on the higher end of the market, the performance and technology they deliver make them well worth the investment for serious players.

These paddles are built with PT-700 Unidirectional RAW Carbon Fiber, Bantam Quick Response Technology (QRT) cores, and Carbon Steel Twist Weight Balance systems, which are advanced features that you typically won’t find in lower-priced paddles. The level of power, spin, and precision these paddles offer justifies the premium price, especially for players who are looking to take their game to the next level.

Given the durability and high-performance technology integrated into the ALW-C 12.7 and 14.3, these paddles offer excellent value for players who demand top-tier equipment. If you’re an intermediate to advanced player, or someone who plays competitively, the performance payoff outweighs the initial cost.

Conclusion & Recommendation: Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7 and 14.3

For intermediate players looking to elevate their game, the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7 and 14.3 paddles offer two solid choices, each tailored to different playing styles.

Bantam ALW-C 12.7mm: This paddle is best suited for aggressive players who enjoy fast-paced, power-driven gameplay. It delivers impressive pop and speed, perfect for those who like to take control with strong volleys and drives. However, if you’re primarily focused on finesse or precise control, this paddle may feel too lively for that purpose. It thrives in a more offensive style of play, where power and pace are key.

Bantam ALW-C 14.3mm: The 14.3mm offers a more balanced experience, with a greater emphasis on control while still delivering enough power for intermediate players. The thicker core allows for better shot placement and forgiveness, making it ideal for those who prioritize consistency and touch, especially in kitchen play. It’s a great paddle for those who want a reliable mix of power and control without sacrificing precision on soft shots.

That said, if you're searching for a paddle more suited for all-court play or something that leans heavier toward control, you may want to consider alternatives like the Bread & Butter Fat Boy, Volair Mach 2 Forza, or 11SIX24 Monarch All Court, all of which offer a softer, more control-oriented experience for those looking to fine-tune their finesse game.

At $249.99, the Bantam ALW-C series provides excellent value for intermediate players aiming to improve their performance, offering top-tier technology and materials designed to help you push your game to the next level.