１．Introduction
In this article, I compared the average weights of shakehand rackets based on the 2026 manufacturer catalogs.
As of late March 2026, I have confirmed 14 manufacturers with sales networks in Japan, all of which offer shakehand rackets.
While shakehand players are generally less sensitive to weight than penholder players, I have compiled this data for your reference.
For the 2026 update, I have also added a ranking for the heaviest rackets.
This report features the “Top 16 Lightest Rackets” (under 70g) and the “Top 10 Heaviest Rackets.”
２．Key Notes for Comparison
(1) Participating Manufacturers
- Number of Manufacturers Confirmed: 13
- Manufacturers included in this comparison:
- Butterfly
- Nittaku
- VICTAS
- Yasaka
- JUIC
- Mizuno
- TIBHAR
- STIGA
- andro
- Killerspin
- Dr.Neubauer
- Note: This comparison includes 11 manufacturers that provide Japanese catalogs or display average weights on their official websites.
Data Sources and Accuracy
- Butterfly: Data was retrieved from the latest values on their official website.
- Why Butterfly uses its website: By publishing weights online rather than in printed catalogs (which cannot be updated for a year), Butterfly ensures users always receive the most accurate and up-to-date data. This sincere approach to providing reliable information is highly commendable.
- Excluded Manufacturers: DONIC, JOOLA, and XIOM were excluded from this comparison as their average weights are not officially listed.
(2) Notes on Weight Labeling
- Standardization of Data
- Please note that while weight labeling methods vary slightly between manufacturers, they are treated as equivalent for this comparison.
- Large ball rackets and special grips (e.g., Nittaku’s “Tenaly”) are included in this comparison as shakehand rackets.
- Examples of Weight Labeling (For a 80g racket):
- Butterfly: Average Weight 80g
- JUIC: Weight 80 ± 5g
(3) Nature of This Article: Comparison of Catalog Specifications
- Data-Based Comparison
- This article is not an “equipment review” based on personal testing. It is a compilation and comparison of the “average weights” listed in each manufacturer’s official catalogs and websites.
- Scope and Intent
- Since I have not personally tested all the equipment listed, this article is not intended to evaluate performance, rank quality, or recommend specific models.
- Please use this data as a numerical reference to assist in your own equipment selection.
- Author’s Recommendation
- While this is a data-driven post, I do own some of the rackets featured in the rankings. Therefore, I have included a personal recommendation for one specific racket at the end of the article.
３．Lightweight Racket Rankings (11th – 13th Place)
The following rackets are listed: four at 70g, one at 69g, and one at 68g.
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$:
13th Place (Average Weight: 70g /4 models)
- GRAND MASTER (Dr.Neubauer): ¥15,400 JPY (Approx. $103 USD)
- High Tech Cypress Carbon (Dr.Neubauer): ¥23,100 JPY (Approx. $154 USD)
- HOPESTAR PRINCE II (Yasaka): ¥5,060 JPY (Approx. $34 USD)
- HOPESTAR PRINCESS II (Yasaka): ¥5,060 JPY (Approx. $34 USD)
12th Place (Average weight: 69g /1 model)
- TIMO BOLL TJ (Butterfly): ¥8,250 JPY (Approx. $55 USD)
11th Place (Average weight: 68g per piece)
- KANTER FO OFF (Andro): ¥12,100 JPY (Approx. $81 USD)
４．Lightweight Racket Ranking (8th Place)
Three rackets with an average weight of 65g have entered the rankings.
8th Place (Average Weight: 65g / 3 models)
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
FIREWALL PLUS (Dr.Neubauer): ¥17,930 JPY (Approx. $120 USD)
For players who want it all—both solid blocking and powerful attacking.
It unleashes dynamic power particularly when attacking with inverted or short pimple rubbers. The balsa core provides exceptional control even during hard hits or heavy loop drives. On defense, its soft ball touch ensures high stability, while its effectiveness with long pimples for aggressive pushes is guaranteed. Lightweight, fast, and capable of generating great spin, it is also an ideal racket for Large Ball table tennis.
Note: The product link below is in Japanese as an English page is not available.
Source: JUIC Official Website
VERSAL (VICTAS): ¥9,240 JPY (Approx. $62 USD)
Note: This product is only listed on the Japanese official website and is not available on the English global site.
Ultra-lightweight, high-speed swing racket.
Source: VICTAS Official Website
Featuring a 6mm ultra-lightweight balsa wood core, it achieves a surprisingly low weight despite its thickness. Additionally, the sponge built into the grip provides a comfortable and pleasant feel at impact.
“Even if you don’t read Japanese, you can check out more photos and detailed specs via the link below!”
CANALDY2 (Nittaku): ¥5,280 JPY (Approx. $35 USD)
For future stars!
Featuring a compact blade and grip shape designed for easy swinging. It is engineered to keep the total weight low even after rubbers are applied. Being lightweight and easy to handle, it is suitable for a wide range of generations, from children to seniors.Note: The product link below is in Japanese as an English page is not available.
Source: Nittaku Official Website
“Even if you don’t read Japanese, you can check out more photos and detailed specs via the link below!”
５．Lightweight Racket Rankings (6th Place)
Two rackets with an average weight of 60g are ranked in 6th place.
6th Place (Average Weight: 60g / 2 models)
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
High Technology Plus (Dr. Neubauer): ¥23,430 JPY (Approx. $156 USD)
Elegant and Practical Racket
Featuring a balsa wood core protected by wooden edge tape, this racket is designed with a slim, smooth-finished grip that feels gentle and comfortable in the hand. It excels in blocking and is highly effective for pushes, light hits, and counters, especially when paired with pips-out or specialized rubbers. When it is time to go on the offensive, it delivers ample power for decisive loops and smashes. It is a truly elegant yet highly practical racket.Note: The product link below is in Japanese as an English page is not available.
Source: JUIC Official Website
Lightness (VICTAS): ¥7,920 JPY (Approx. $53 USD)
Ultra-lightweight for Effortless Control
With an ultra-lightweight average of 60g, this racket enables stable swings and precise control even for small children and female players.
Note: Although an English version of the website exists, this specific product is only listed on the Japanese page.
Source: VICTAS Official Website
“Even if you don’t read Japanese, you can check out more photos and detailed specs via the link below!”
６．Lightweight Racket Rankings (1st – 4th Place)
Two rackets with an average weight of 58g are ranked in 4th place.
4th Place (Average Weight: 58g / 2 models)
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
Black Balsa 3.0 (VICTAS): ¥9,240 JPY (Approx. $62 USD)
An Unprecedented “Heavy” Chop Created by “Lightness”
By reducing the blade thickness, this racket provides a flexible feel at impact, enabling stable defensive chops. It is the ideal choice for choppers who rely on tenacity as their primary weapon.
Source: VICTAS Official Website
Balsa L (JUIC): ¥13,200 JPY (Approx. $88 USD)
Recommended for Large Ball Table Tennis!
When combined with Plage V, this racket makes it easy to handle both offensive and defensive play, with the significant feature of providing a natural feel similar to hitting a 40mm hard ball. For those looking to further elevate their level of play, this will prove to be an extremely valuable choice.
Note: The product link below is in Japanese as an English page is not available.
Source: JUIC Official Website
3rd Place (Average Weight: 56g / 1 piece)
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
Black Balsa 7.0 (VICTAS): ¥9,240 JPY (Approx. $62 USD)
A New Realm of Offensive Power Enabled by “Ultra-Lightweight”
This racket features thick, soft balsa wood combined with specialized materials, achieving a balance of soft feel at impact and high repulsion. It is highly recommended for players who want to produce powerful shots while using a lightweight racket.
Source: VICTAS Official Website
2nd Place (Average Weight: 55g / 1 piece)
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
Black Balsa 5.0 (VICTAS): ¥9,240 JPY (Approx. $62 USD)
The Weapon of “Lightness” Added to Perfect Balance
Source: VICTAS Official Website
Featuring a 5mm balsa core, this racket is specialized for stability. The addition of specialized materials enhances its offensive performance, making it the perfect choice for all-around players.
1st Place (Average Weight: 52g / 1 piece)
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
Barricade Defensive (Dr. Neubauer): ¥17,930 JPY (Approx. $119 USD)
The First Place Ranker Weighs Only 52g!
In my experience, this weight is simply unbelievable. I would love to experience such incredible lightness for myself at least once.
Maximum Disruptive Effect for Short and Chop Players
This racket was specifically designed for defensive choppers playing in the backcourt and players who effectively utilize short blocks. It is ideal for those who use long-pips rubbers and seek a slow-paced game with maximum spin reversal.By balancing the conflicting elements of “control” and “disruptive effect,” this racket demonstrates its superiority in various offensive and defensive situations. The grip, which features cork for a perfect fit in the hand, is also a noteworthy highlight.
Note: The product link below is in Japanese as an English page is not available.
Source: JUIC Official Website
７．Heavy Racket Rankings
In the world of shakehand rackets, heavy models are also in high demand depending on their intended use. For instance, the “Goriki Series,” which dominates the top ranks, is a series of rackets intentionally designed to be heavy.
10th Place (Average Weight: 94g / 1 piece)
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
Fortino Pro DC Inside (ST) (TIBHAR): ¥23,100 JPY (Approx. $153 USD)
Note on Weight Specifications
Please note that according to the TIBHAR Japan official website, the ST (Straight) grip model of the Fortino Pro DC Inside is listed at an average weight of 94g, which is why it is included in this ranking. However, the global TIBHAR website lists the overall average weight for this model as 85g.
【Dual-Wielding Power and Control: The New Fortino】
By utilizing Dyneema, an ultimate material that is ultra-lightweight yet possesses high strength, we have expanded the sweet spot. Within the popular Fortino series, this model is designed with a slight focus on reduced speed in exchange for better ball bite and control. Nevertheless, it remains a racket capable of delivering sufficient power for finishing shots.References: TIBHAR Japan and Global Websites
Source: TIBHAR JAPAN Official Website
For your reference, I have provided links to both the TIBHAR Japan and the global TIBHAR official websites below.
Source: TIBHAR Global Official Website
6th Place (Average Weight: 95g / 4 models)
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
- Goriki Super Drive (Nittaku): ¥36,300 JPY (Approx. $242 USD)
- Dynasty Carbon (STIGA): ¥30,800 JPY (Approx. $205 USD)
- Kido SK (Killerspin): ¥8,640 JPY (Approx. $58 USD)
- Korbel (Butterfly): ¥6,050 JPY (Approx. $40 USD)
4th Place (Average Weight: 97g / 1 piece)
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
- Goriki J (Nittaku): ¥33,000 JPY (Approx. $220 USD)
- Diode V (Butterfly): ¥7,700 JPY (Approx. $51 USD)
3rd Place (Average Weight: 100g / 1 piece)
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
- Goriki (Nittaku): ¥36,300 JPY (Approx. $242 USD)
1st Place (Average Weight: 105g / 2 models)
Entering the Unknown: The Profound Depth of Table Tennis
Coming this far, I feel as though I’ve stepped into an entirely unknown world. These rankings truly make me reflect on the incredible depth and complexity of table tennis as a sport.
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
- Goriki Danshi (Nittaku): ¥36,300 JPY (Approx. $242 USD)
A Weapon for the Brave: Explosive Power for the Ultimate Attack
This Goriki racket is designed specifically for players who use inverted rubbers on both sides. It allows you to overwhelm opponents with stable counters and settle the match with a single, devastating power drive!By increasing the thickness of the inner three plies of the 7-ply wood construction, speed performance has been significantly enhanced. The head-heavy design adds even more power to your drives, elevating your game to a whole new level of dominance.
Note: The product link below is in Japanese as an English page is not available.
Source: Nittaku Official Website
“Even if you don’t read Japanese, you can check out more photos and detailed specs via the link below!”
Goriki Super Cut (Nittaku): ¥36,300 JPY (Approx. $242 USD)
Peerless Strength: Goriki Muso
Utilizing the same plywood construction as the original Goriki, this heavyweight blade features a unique flexibility that generates sharp, highly controlled chops. During counterattacks, its “grip and repel” sensation allows for powerful smashes that will leave your opponents bewildered.Equip yourself with the ability to withstand heavy drives while delivering devastating chops and counterattacks!
Note: The product link below is in Japanese as an English page is not available.
Source: Nittaku Official Website
“Even if you don’t read Japanese, you can check out more photos and detailed specs via the link below!”
８．Extra: Author’s Recommended Racket
Out of all the lightweight rackets ranked today, I would like to introduce the one I recommend most from my personal collection.
Note: As I am a penhold player, the rackets I own are Chinese Penhold (CHN) models.
*Assuming an exchange rate of $1 = ¥150$
Black Balsa 7.0 CHN (VICTAS): ¥9,240 JPY (Approx. $62 USD)
I used the “Black Balsa 7.0 CHN”—sold under the TSP brand before the renewal—for about five to six years. Because this racket is also very light, its maneuverability is outstanding.
To compensate for the natural low repulsion of balsa wood, this blade is designed to be quite thick (7mm). As a result, the repulsion upon impact is remarkably high for a balsa racket, making it an excellent choice for offensive players. Since my playstyle focuses on attacking, this was a personal favorite.
If I had to mention a drawback, the grip is relatively large. As someone with smaller hands, I often found myself wishing for a slightly slimmer grip while using it. Additionally, balsa wood rackets have a very unique feel at impact, so they can be a “love it or hate it” type of equipment.
*While it has been renewed as “Black Balsa V,” I believe there are no significant changes in its performance.
“Even if you don’t read Japanese, you can check out more photos and detailed specs via the link below!”
９．Conclusion
What did you think of the rankings?
Personally, the 1st place in the lightweight category was so light it was almost hard to believe. On the other hand, when it comes to heavy rackets, Nittaku’s “Goriki series” is legendary. They are designed to be heavy on purpose.
I had the impression that many lightweight shakehand rackets were designed for defensive play or for junior players.
Furthermore, the only lightweight model from the industry leader, Butterfly, was the “Timo Boll TJ” for juniors, giving me the impression that they do not focus much on lightweight rackets. As expected, there is a clear trend where rackets prioritizing offensive power tend to be heavier.
I have compiled the average weights of rackets from various manufacturers to share this information with all of you. If any of these rackets caught your interest, I encourage you to check their individual specifications.
I hope this information proves useful to everyone.
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