What Do Star Ratings Mean on Table Tennis Bats? ⭐ A Clear Guide for 2025
Seen bats listed as 1★, 3★, 6★ or even 9★ and wondered what it all means? You’re not alone. Star ratings are a handy shorthand for general quality and performance level—but they’re not an official ITTF standard. Each brand uses its own scale, so a 3★ from one brand won’t necessarily play the same as a 3★ from another.
This quick guide explains how star ratings map to real-world play, shows example bats at each level, and helps you choose the right racket for your game. If you want a full shortlist with ratings and buying advice, don’t miss our pillar guide:
👉 Best Table Tennis Bats to Buy in 2025 – Expert Picks & Ratings
…and our focused beginner guide:
👉 Best Bats for Beginners & Intermediates (Updated 2025)
How Star Ratings Generally Break Down
- 1★–2★ (Entry Level): Slower, control-focused. Ideal for learning basic strokes and timing.
- 3★–4★ (Developing Players): Better materials and rubbers; more spin and speed, still playable control.
- 5★+ (Advanced/Competitive): High-performance blades (often with carbon layers) and lively rubbers designed for speed and spin.
- 6★–10★ (Premium Tiers): Some brands extend the scale (e.g., 6★, 7★, up to 9★/10★). In practice, these often play like strong 5★ bats with upgraded materials/finishes or pro-spec rubbers.
| Your Level | Typical Star Range | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Beginner | 1★–2★ | Control, forgiveness, confidence building |
| Beginner → Intermediate | 3★–4★ | Balanced speed/spin with reliable control |
| Advanced / Competitive | 5★+ | High speed/spin; demands good technique |
| Premium & Pro Preference | 6★–10★ | Often premium 5★ with upgraded materials/specs |
1★–2★: Perfect for First Bats
These bats are geared toward control and consistency. They’re great for learning to keep the ball on the table, feel the contact point, and build clean technique without getting overpowered.
Example: Palio 2 Star Expert Table Tennis Bat
- Why it fits: Control-first setup with genuine spin potential at a starter price.
- Build: 7‑ply wood blade matched with ITTF‑approved CJ2000 rubbers.
- Feel: Slightly heavier than basic 1★ bats for added stability and power.
3★–4★: Ideal for Developing Players
Once your consistency improves, moving into 3–4★ gives you more spin and speed without losing too much control. These are excellent “step‑up” choices for club sessions.
Example: Palio 3 Star Expert Table Tennis Bat
- Why it fits: A quicker, more responsive upgrade that still feels controlled.
- Build: Quality 5‑ply blade with ITTF‑approved CJ2000 rubbers.
- Use case: Perfect for players moving from beginner to intermediate.
5★+: Competitive/Advanced Performance
Here you’ll find faster blades (often with carbon layers) and rubbers that really grab the ball. They produce more spin and speed—but they also demand cleaner timing and touch.
Example: LOKI 6 Star Carbon Table Tennis Bat
- Why it fits: Carbon‑reinforced 7‑ply blade delivers a crisp, confident strike.
- Rubbers: RXTON 3 (FH) + RXTON 1 (BH) for attacking spin and active blocks.
- Who it’s for: Ambitious beginners to intermediates wanting long‑term performance.
6★–10★: Premium Tiers & Brand Scales
Many brands now go beyond the classic 5★, labeling premium models as 6★, 7★, up to 9★/10★. In practice, these bats typically perform like top‑end 5★ gear—often with upgraded materials, finishes, or pro‑spec rubbers.
Example: Stiga 6 Star Carbon Table Tennis Bat
- Blade: 7‑ply (5 wood + 2 carbon) for speed with a solid, stable feel.
- Playstyle: Offensive/looping; crisp counters and confident blocks.
- What to expect: A premium take on a high‑end 5★ concept—fast but still playable.
Final Tip: Don’t Just Rely on Stars
Use star ratings as a starting point, then check:
- Handle shape: Flared (shakehand) vs straight vs penhold (pick what feels natural).
- Blade composition: Pure wood (more feel) vs carbon layers (more speed/stability).
- Rubber type: Pimples‑in for spin learning; pips‑out for disrubtive/control play.
Need help matching a bat to your style and budget? Start here:
👉 Best Table Tennis Bats to Buy in 2025 – Expert Picks & Ratings
👉 Best Bats for Beginners & Intermediates (Updated 2025)
FAQ
Are bat star ratings official?
No. Unlike balls, bat star ratings aren’t standardised by the ITTF. Treat them as a brand’s internal guide to quality/performance.
Is a 6★ bat always better than a 5★?
Not necessarily. Many 6★–10★ bats are premium versions of strong 5★ concepts. Check the blade (wood/carbon), rubbers, and feel.
What star rating should beginners buy?
Most beginners do best with 2★–3★. They’re fast enough to learn spin but maintain the control needed to build technique.
Can I compete with a lower‑star bat?
If the rubbers are ITTF‑approved, yes. Many 2★–3★ setups are club‑friendly and perfectly fine for starting competition.