Shakehand vs Penhold Table Tennis Rackets: Which is Better?

In the game of table tennis, success is not solely determined by the kind of equipment you choose. For example, most players pay attention to the racket. They try to purchase the bat from top brands to improve their game. But it is not always the quality of a table tennis racket that determines your win on the court. Your ability to play well also starts with how you hold your bat.

Many players believe that it is the beginners who are new to the sport who should learn the correct way to grip the bat. Even the experienced ones looking to refine their techniques can benefit from proper grip.

There are mainly two types of grips, and those are shakehand and penhold. The debate regarding which one is better has been going on for years.

Both grips offer unforgettable rallies and support different playing styles. The shakehand grip is particularly popular among modern competitive table tennis players, while the penhold grip remains a favourite among players who prefer exceptional wrist flexibility, quick attacks, and creative shot-making.

So, which one is actually better? In this blog, we will provide an answer to this question so that you can choose the right table tennis racket.

What is a Shakehand Grip?

Players going for paddles with a shakehand grip usually hold the table tennis racket in such a way as if they were shaking hands. The thumb rests on the side of the blade, the index finger curls around the base of the rubber, and your other three fingers wrap around the handle.

The design offers a balanced playing style, especially for those who are new to the game, to master both forehand and backhand strokes.

Moreover, this type of racket also generates exceptional topspin and can control the ball quite easily. It even distributes the power so that players can hit the ball from both sides of the body.

The shakehand grip is even dominant among professional athletes who value its versatility and control. For example, Ma Long, one of the famous table tennis players, utilises the shakehand grip to execute powerful shots.

Advantages of the Shakehand Grip

1. Balanced Forehand and Backhand: This is perhaps the biggest strength of a shakehand grip. It allows the players to easily switch between aggressive and defensive shots. The grip provides excellent power and control, also making it ideal for even all-round players.
2. Easier for Beginners: The shakehand feels natural in the hands, which makes this type of paddle perfect for beginners. They can transition between strokes with less wrist adjustment, making it easier to develop consistent technique.
3. Better Reach Across the Table: With a shakehand grip, players can comfortably reach both sides of the table with a wide range of motions. This creates a natural extension of the forearm that allows players to cover more distance at the extremities. Moreover, it even reduces unnecessary footwork and improves overall consistency.
4. Wide Equipment Compatibility: Nearly every table tennis racket on the market is designed with shakehand players in mind. As a result, players have countless options to choose from, be it blades, rubbers, and customised setups.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

Despite having their potential, rackets with a shakehand grip also have certain disadvantages. Here are some of them.

• Limited Wrist Action

The shakehand grip naturally restricts the full range of motion of the wrist. Hence, it makes generating extreme spin on certain precision shots or deceptive serves harder to execute.

• Slower Close-to-the-net Play

Quick flicks and delicate touch shots near the table may require more effort, which makes some players find the grip less effective.

What is a Penhold Grip?

The penhold grip in a table tennis racket is a technique that resembles the way someone holds a pen while writing. Here, the players wrap their thumb and index finger around the handle while the remaining fingers rest behind the blade.

Traditionally, penhold players used only one side of the table tennis racket, although modern players increasingly use both sides through the reverse penhold backhand technique.

Advantages of the Penhold Grip

1. Superior Wrist Flexibility: This type of racket offers excellent wrist mobility. Players who prefer rackets with a penhold grip can create heavy spin, sharp angles, deceptive serves and quick wrist flicks. Hence, it gives increased freedom of movement, which helps them produce more varied and unpredictable shots.
2. Faster Forehand Attack: Players who are comfortable with a penhold naturally favour the forehand. Hence, they can execute explosive forehand loops with the required speed and precision.
3. Excellent Close-to-the-table Play:The penhold grip is really effective in quick exchanges near the table. Thanks to the grip’s flexibility, it allows the players to react quickly and generate fast blocks, pushes, and flicks.
4. Better Short Game: Many penhold specialists dominate short rallies because the grip allows them to manipulate spin and control near the table. The increased wrist flexibility helps players execute delicate pushes, short serves, and quick variations that can disrupt an opponent’s rhythm.

Disadvantages of the Penhold Grip

• Weaker Backhand Technique

Hitting a traditional backhand with a penhold grip really feels awkward, which eventually results in limited topspin, reduced power, and a lack of overall reach on the backhand side.

• Demanding Footwork

As players constantly need to use their forehand to generate power and spin, it can place strain on the arm and cause cramping in the hands. Players often get blisters on the thumb and the index finger.

Which Grip is Better?

The choice between a table tennis racket that offers a shakehand and a penhold grip actually depends on your playing style, skill level, comfort, and long-term goals. Both the grips have their own advantages and drawbacks, and hence, there is no direct answer on which one is better than the other.

For beginners, it is advisable to go for the shakehand grip because it provides a balanced approach with strong forehand and backhand performance. Moreover, it is also easier to learn with better control, and it allows players to develop their techniques.

On the other hand, the penhold grip is better suited for players who enjoy aggressive forehand attacks, quick movements, and advanced spin techniques.

Conclusion

The best table tennis racket is with which you feel comfortable and that supports your natural style of play. Make sure to try both grips, practise regularly, and focus on developing solid technique. With the right grip and consistent training, you will eventually build confidence and improve your performance.