The footage is brief, but it is dense with implications. Tennis is not a forgiving activity for a humanoid form. It demands balance during lateral movement, fast visual tracking of a small object, timing of arm swings, and stability at the moment of impact. Walker S2 manages all of this without appearing stiff or unstable, which is what makes the demo worth a closer look.

What actually happens in the video

The robot stands opposite a human player and engages in a controlled rally. The pace is moderate. Shots are fed cleanly and predictably. Walker S2 steps into position, swings its racket, and sends the ball back over the net. Movements look coordinated rather than pre-frozen, with visible weight shifts and recovery after each hit.

This is not a robot planted in place with a single repetitive motion. Foot placement changes between shots. The torso rotates with the swing. Balance holds during contact, which is a critical detail. Many humanoid demos fall apart at this exact moment, when impact forces expose weak control loops.

At the same time, the sequence stays within a narrow envelope. The robot does not sprint, dive, or handle unpredictable spin. That appears deliberate. The goal here is controlled demonstration rather than stress testing.

Why tennis is a revealing test

Tennis compresses several hard robotics problems into one task. Vision systems must detect and track a fast moving ball against a complex background. Control systems must predict where that ball will be, not where it is. Locomotion must reposition the robot smoothly without destabilising it. Arm motion must stay synchronised with body movement.

Walker S2 showing competence across all of these layers at once is notable. Even if some aspects are simplified, the integration matters. This is closer to real world interaction than lifting boxes or waving to a camera.

Anyone who has played tennis will tell you this is an extremely difficult task. It is crazy to think a robot can not just hit a ball, but hit it cleanly and with fluid motion.

Autonomy versus demonstration

One open question is how autonomous this sequence really is. The video does not explain whether the robot is operating fully on board or receiving external guidance. That distinction matters, especially when demos circulate without technical context.

The movements suggest real time responsiveness rather than a fixed animation. However, the controlled environment and predictable ball feeds mean assistance cannot be ruled out. Until UBTECH publishes deeper technical detail, it is sensible to treat this as a capability showcase rather than proof of independent athletic performance.

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Why this still matters

Even as a demonstration, the clip shows how far humanoid coordination has progressed. Stable bipedal movement combined with dynamic arm motion remains one of the hardest problems in robotics. Tennis exposes weaknesses quickly. Walker S2 does not collapse, jitter, or freeze.

This kind of demo points less toward robots playing sports and more toward robots operating in environments where timing, balance, and interaction matter. Warehouses, factories, and service settings all demand similar underlying skills just with different tools.

The tennis court is simply a clear stage on which those skills become easy to see. We did review PongBot Pace S Pro a couple of months ago. The robotic tennis ball launcher is very impressive. But the device shown in the video is next level!

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I am someone who has closely followed the intersection of tennis and technology. Over the years, I have reviewed everything from the first connected tennis racket, to an automatic line calling machine for amateurs, to Slinger (the portable and affordable automatic ball launcher). It is now good to be seeing that professional tennis is embracing wearable tech in official matches. While players have undoubtedly been using such devices in training, this move brings data-driven insights directly into the competitive arena.

ATP approvals in-competition wearables: What this means

The ATP’s decision to approve devices from STATSports and Catapult will generate cutting-edge insights for players. These devices dish out metrics like heart rate and high-intensity load data. This information will be centralized in a new dashboard called ATP Tennis IQ – Wearables, building upon the ATP Tennis IQ analytics platform launched in September 2023.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

One of the most exciting aspects of this development is its potential to level the playing field. Players lower in the rankings, who may not have access to extensive coaching resources, will now have data-driven insights at their fingertips. This democratization of performance analytics could lead to more competitive matches and potentially unearth new talents who can leverage the data to improve their game.

Moreover, if some of this data is made public, it could improve how we watch and understand tennis. Imagine real-time heart rate data during a crucial tiebreak or seeing a player’s exertion levels throughout a five-set marathon. This additional layer of information could deepen fan engagement and provide commentators with fascinating new angles to explore during broadcasts.

The big picture

The introduction of wearables is part of a broader push by the ATP to enhance the sport through technology, data, and innovation. The Tennis IQ platform, launched last year, already provides players with advanced match analytics, interactive court graphics, and detailed scouting information on opponents. The addition of wearable data to this ecosystem promises to create an even more comprehensive toolkit for players and their teams.

As Ross Hutchins, ATP Chief Sporting Officer, stated, “The introduction of wearables on Tour is a big step forward in our push to optimise player performance and prevent injury. Ultimately, empowering players to get the very best out of their careers.”

While the immediate focus is on player performance and injury prevention, the potential applications of this technology are vast. Future iterations could incorporate this data into coaching strategies, especially given the recent introduction of off-court coaching during matches.

As we look ahead to Wimbledon and beyond, it’s clear that professional tennis is entering a new era. The marriage of cutting-edge technology with the grace and skill of top athletes promises to enhance both player performance and fan experience. It’s an exciting time for tennis, and I, for one, can’t wait to see how this technology develops and influences the sport we love.

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Wearable technology continues to make inroads into the sports world, with tennis becoming a target for innovation. Baseline Vision, a recent release, introduces a portable camera system harnessing AI to provide affordable and practical line-calling assistance for competitive and casual tennis players alike.

How Baseline Vision works

Unlike traditional pro-level systems, Baseline Vision eliminates the need for extensive infrastructure. Utilizing two cameras to track and analyze on-court action, it delivers a comprehensive overview of your performance. The system pinpoints stroke placement, speed, and whether shots are in or out, delivering insights previously reserved for pro athletes directly to your smartphone.

Setup is hassle-free, requiring no major court modifications. The device attaches to any net post in seconds and pairs with a mobile app using a simple QR code scan.

Beyond automatic line calling, Baseline Vision transforms practice sessions. This includes gamified drills, performance tracking, and video replays, making your tennis experience more engaging and fuelling your improvement.

In/Out: The line-calling competitor

But this is not the only such device out there. In/Out offers an impressive suite of features beyond its core ability to determine line calls, making it a strong contender against Baseline Vision.

The device, now in its fourth generation, not only offers similar line-calling capabilities. It also offers features such as video replay and shot placement statistics. This functionality provides players with a comprehensive overview of their game, allowing for a analysis of their performance. The video replay feature, in particular, is invaluable for players looking to refine their technique, offering a split-screen view of the action from both sides of the court in 1080p resolution.

Moreover, In/Out’s latest version has significantly ramped up its accuracy, claiming a 200% improvement over previous iterations. The addition of an extra camera not only broadens the recording angle, capturing more of the court in detail, but also introduces a new dimension to game analysis, mimicking the wide-angle shots seen in professional broadcasts. Furthermore, In/Out’s versatility extends beyond tennis, with the device now supporting other racket sports such as pickleball and badminton.

A stark contrast emerges in pricing. It’s fair to say – In/Out offers a significant cost advantage with its Net Device starting at $350, suitable for practice matches, video recording, and statistics analysis. For comprehensive line-calling functionality, two additional Line Devices are recommended at $100 each for a grand total of $550. Baseline Vision, with its singular camera unit, typically involves an investment of roughly $2,000.

Tech: Leveling the tennis playing field

The proliferation of devices like Baseline Vision and In/Out highlights the evolving equipment landscape in tennis. Once inaccessible outside of the professional sphere, this technology brings valuable training and analysis tools within reach of committed amateur players. For competitive settings, it reduces disputes and promotes a more enjoyable overall match experience. This ongoing trend signifies that cutting-edge wearable and sensor-based solutions will have a profound impact on how we train, play, and experience the sport across all levels.

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We reviewed the gizmo about a year ago. For those not in the know, Slinger Bag is unlike any tennis ball launcher out there. In addition to being cheaper than the competition, it comes with an innovative design that takes the form of a tennis bag.

We’ve tested a lot when it comes to tennis gear. And in our opinion, the Slinger Bag is the most practical tool out there as it has the most potential to improve your game. It’s a practice partner that always wants to play, that never gets tired and that helps you improve consistancy and develop your shots.

Check out our full review. Since that article was published an upgraded version of the device was released. It wasn’t a generation 2 device. Rather it was a slightly revamped iteration of the same, mostly to do with cosmetic changes. The bag is slightly shorter and some more handles were put in.

Slinger Bag smartphone app

The one thing the Slinger Bag is missing is a smartphone app. But the team has been working with programmers, designers, tennis players to come up with something that sounds like it will be very useful.

The project is currently in Beta but Slinger has shared, a while ago, some info and images of the app. You can see them above.

There are four tabs in the home display of the smartphone app. The first shows a News feed – we are guessing of Slinger related and other tennis news.

The second is the Drills area. The company is rolling out a large selection of exercises to help you improve your technique. There will be something for everyone as the material is catered to all player levels. The drills are curated from our an array of coach and player ambassadors.

Here’s an example of a Forehands Inside Out and Inside In drill. This one in particular is meant for Intermediate level players.

The next part of the app lets you Analyze your technique. The AI will look at your form from captured smartphone video and dish out insights. You will also be given a benchmark against yourself and how you are improving over time. This will be taken further to show how you stack up against your peers and the world’s top players.

Essential reading: Tennis gadgets and trackers to improve your game

Finally, there will also be a Social aspect to the app. You’ll be able to share content for bragging rights, learn and share tips and connect with likeminded others.

How to get early access to the Slinger Bag app

This all sounds pretty exciting. It might the missing piece to an already great product.

A few days ago the company wrote on its Facebook account they are “super excited to announce the upcoming beta launch of the long awaited Slinger App, which will be simultaneously available for iOS and Android users.

If you want in on the Beta of the app, the company has provided a link. That takes you through to a short 3 minute survey which you will need to fill in. The company will then select number of existing customers to test out the software.

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This mysterious device may appear to be an inconspicuous addition to his ensemble at first glance. But upon closer inspection, it reveals itself to be a remarkable piece of technology that Djokovic swears by.

Rewriting the record books

Nole’s triumphant victory at Roland Garros in Paris has cemented his place in tennis history, adding more records to his already impressive resume. His victory yesterday at the French Open was his 23rd Grand Slam title. This makes him the male player with the most in the Open Era, ahead of Nadal with 22 to his name.

He also became the first person in history to win each Grand Slam at least three times. Djokovic is the oldest men’s singles winner at the French Open since 1968, at 36 years and 20 days. The Serb also tied the all-time record for most Grand Slam finals appearances with his 34th appearance. Love him or hate him – these records, among many others, firmly establish Djokovic as one of the greatest athletes of all time.

Among the excitement surrounding these accomplishments, the tennis world has been intrigued by the mystery wearable that Djokovic wears during some of his matches. The object was clearly visible on his chest held in place by a piece of tape, as the Serbian star changed his shirt following his three-set victory over Hungarian player Marton Fucsovics.

Nole was asked about the strange little object during a post-match press conference. He explained that his team provides him with highly efficient microtechnology to enhance his performance on the court, making a playful reference to his childhood admiration for Iron Man.

It turns out, the object is something called the Taopatch. This is a wearable device Djokovic believes plays an important role in his success.

How Taopatch works

Nole’s support for the Taopatch is not surprising given his health-conscious lifestyle and belief in alternative medicine. This is a medical device patented in Italy and 100% manufactured in Italy. It uses nanocrystals known as quantum dots to convert the body’s natural infrared heat into therapeutic wavelengths.

These wavelengths are then used to stimulate neuralgic points in the body that are out of balance. The patch does not emit any chemicals and instead derives its health benefits from the conversion process. Taopatch claims to improve body movement, restore joints and alleviate pain caused by incorrect postural patterns. It also improves physical and biological performance, and boosts proprioception.

On the official website of Taopatch, the manufacturer states that over the past seven years, more than 1,800 medical professionals have had the opportunity to test the product, as well as about ten sports teams, and hundreds of thousands of patients. A series of studies on this subject have been published, including from universities in Turin, Milan, Palermo and Rome. Apparently, this was enough for Djokovic to decide to try this new product himself.

Is this wearable a key to his success?

All eyes are on Djokovic’s as he continues to rewrite the record books. Whether or not this wearable technology plays a role in his incredible achievements is difficult to say.

It might be a small piece of the larger puzzle that is his game strategy, physical prowess and hard work ethic. But Nole seems to believe that it is important, and perhaps that belief is what makes the difference. Regardless, for the time being we can only marvel at Djokovic’s court command and speculate on the role this tiny patch plays in his monumental success.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

If you are an aspiring tennis player wishing to try out this technology, you should be prepared to shell out around $300 to acquire the Taopatch on the manufacturer’s website. It is also available for purchase on Amazon in select countries. The feedback on this retail platform varies widely. Some users extoll the benefits of the wearable, while others express skepticism about its effectiveness.

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Gombolay, a robotics associate professor, is no stranger to sports. His inspiration for ESTHER, the robot designed to mimic the challenge of a human opponent, stemmed from a childhood passion for tennis. Recognising the limitations of stationary ball feeders, Gombolay imagined a robotic companion capable of providing an authentic gameplay experience.

Essential reading: Smart tennis gadgets and trackers to improve your game

ESTHER, an acronym for Experimental Sport Tennis Wheelchair Robot, was named after wheelchair tennis legend Esther Vergeer. Unlike traditional stationary ball feeders, the robot can move across the court, hit from different positions, and vary its shot selection. This dynamic training approach provides athletes with a more realistic match simulation.

The robot’s construction was not an easy task. As its name implies, the design of ESTHER is inspired by wheelchair tennis. This is a rapidly growing sport with its own professional league and representation at all four Grand Slam tournaments as well as the Summer Paralympics.

The robot has a tennis racket attached to a single arm and is propelled by two DC motors linked to a gearbox. This setup allows ESTHER to move quickly from one side of the court to the other, easily covering both sides. The clever approach avoided the problems associated with bipedal locomotion, preventing potential court damage while maintaining effective mobility.

A long journey

The journey to build ESTHER was difficult, lasting some two years. But the team has managed to successfully program the robot to consistently locate and return incoming tennis balls.

This is a remarkable achievement in the worlds of robotics and sports training. It was accomplished through the use of a complex system of high-resolution cameras strategically placed around the court. Also, there are sophisticated computer vision algorithms that allow ESTHER to accurately predict the trajectory of incoming balls.

Granted, as demonstrated in the video below, the robot is unlikely to win very many points! Even against the weakest of opponents. However, it is a starting point.

The future of athletic training

The ESTHER team is now working to improve the robot’s ability to sustain a back-and-forth rally and strategize its shot selection. If successful, this could usher in a new era of athletic training. In the coming years robots and smart sports gadgets will collaborate to help athletes achieve their full potential.

Similarly, the plan is to enable ESTHER to adapt to players’ specific weaknesses, providing a personalised training experience. For example, it could simulate the playing style of difficult opponents. This will force athletes to raise their game and providing a level of flexibility unrivalled by traditional training methods.

The cutting-edge technology of ESTHER has the potential to a new dimension to sports training, bridging the gap between traditional training methods and emerging technology trends. This advancement corresponds to the growing popularity of smart sports gadgets, such as the tennis trackers we have covered in our articles. These devices, which are equipped with sensors and smart technology, provide real-time feedback and performance analysis, thereby increasing the effectiveness of training.

The introduction of ESTHER adds an exciting chapter to the story of technology’s role in improving athletic performance. As long as we keep our eyes on the ball, the possibilities for sports training in the future appear limitless. Hopefully, the ESTHER team will also teach the robot to pick up the tennis balls between points.

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Which one is right for you? Hopefully, this article will help.

Jump to

• Why get a tennis ball machine
• Lessons vs ball machines
• Things to consider when buying a tennis ball machine
• Popular tennis ball machines: Slinger Bag vs Spinshot vs Lobster vs Proton

Why get a tennis ball machine?

Most people who are at least semi-serious about tennis will at some point consider renting a tennis ball machine or purchasing one. There are several different reasons why you might want to do this.

For starters, these types of devices will improve your game. Practice makes perfect and something that consistently and accurately flings balls in your direction until you can hit no more is the ideal opponent.

Let’s say your backhand needs work. A great way to improve your technique and confidence is simply to program a machine to send you balls to your backhand. Hit thousands of these and you are guaranteed to improve. Consistency is key.

You can do the same with volleys, forehands, overheads, slices and more. Put in some target practice, do some drills and hitting and these shots will feel like second nature. With proper setup, such devices can also improve your footwork.

Another reason you might want to purchase a tennis ball machine is limited access to hitting partners. Most people would rather play a match then put in practice session – let’s face it, playing for points is much more fun. So while you might have no trouble finding people to play matches with, finding a hitting partner who is at your level might be a bit more difficult.

Then there’s the exercise aspect. You have a ready and willing partner sitting in your basement or garage – you can always count on them. A partner that never get tired or grumpy. The benefits come in many forms. Perhaps you just want to shed some pounds or work on your stamina. Playing with a ball machine can improve your physical conditioning.

Lessons vs ball machines

Of course, you could always opt for tennis lessons. And that’s probably a good idea, particularly if you are just starting out. Tennis ball machines can help with fine tuning your technique, footwork and more but they are unlikely to fix the fundamentals of your game. For that you do need a human at the other end of the court – a tennis coach.

Getting proper fundamentals is easier when starting out than when you’ve been doing something repeatedly for years. Bad habits are difficult to correct later. You may have become proficient at using bad form. That might work with those at or below your level, but you will have difficulty progressing and playing against better tennis players.

One of my tennis partners decided to opt for tennis lessons for the first time after years of playing. His tennis game pretty much fell apart in the first few months of lessons. He couldn’t win a set against me. But in the mid-to-long run that investment paid off. His technique improved and he became an overall better player.

Lessons can be quite pricey. And the costs can add up quickly. Not everyone can afford this. So a tennis ball machine could act as a cost saver. But for optimal results, a combination of a tennis coach and hitting practice with a tennis ball machine is ideal. It will probably advance your game more than just focusing on one or the other.

Things to consider when buying a tennis ball machine

The first thing to consider when buying a tennis ball machine is the cost. Such devices range from $650 to a few thousand dollars. The more you pay, typically the specs and capabilities of the machine will be better. There are some very low cost options out there, but those are not likely to do much for your game.

It is best to look at it as an investment. Let’s say you pay $1,500 for a tennis ball machine. If you go to a court once a week with the gizmo for two years, it works out to just $2 per session. Opting to pay for a 1 hour session with a tennis ball machine at your local club is probably ten times that price. Considering a typical ball machine will likely last at least 4-5 years, it can act as a cost saver over the long run. But not if it is sitting in your garage!

As long as you are serious about improving your tennis game it is a worthwhile investment. If not and you are not likely to play often, then it probably doesn’t make a sensible purchase.

Some people think that tennis ball machines are only for beginners and mid-range players. There is some truth in that but even those who are very good can benefit from practicing their technique and strokes. That is why specs and capabilities of the machine are important. This includes factors such as speed, ball capacity, oscillation features, remote controls, warranty – the list goes on. The more advanced you are the more benefit you’ll derive from higher spec machines. Ease of use, on the other hand, might be more important for those just starting out.

Another thing that should be factored in is portability. Not all tennis machines are made equal and some are smaller, lighter and easier to transport than others. Keep that in mind.

Then there are power options. Tennis ball machines are typically battery operated. But you do have those that use A/C power. The first are typically more portable and easier to use as you don’t need a power source on the court. But you will need to remember to charge them after a few hours on the court.

How noisy is it? This might be something to think about as consideration to players on nearby courts is important. Luckily tech is progressing so the motors inside these machines are becoming quiter.

Popular tennis ball machines

We’ve picked out a few of our favourite tennis ball machines: the Slinger Bag vs Proton Tennis Ball Machine vs Spinshot Plus 2 vs Lobster Grand V Elite. These vary quite a bit in terms of price, design and functionality.

Each person has their own specific needs and the right choice for one might not suit another. So best to read all of this carefully and consider your specific situation, level of play and how often you are likely to use a tennis ball machine.

Design: Slinger Bag vs Spinshot vs Lobster vs Proton

Slinger Bag

Slinger Bag is unlike any other tennis ball machine on the market. It comes in the form of an oversized tennis bag. It is a novel and brilliant idea that was funded through two highly-successful crowdfunding campaigns. Since then the company has been going from strength to strength.

In our hands-on review we note that the whole thing feels very nicely made and of robust build quality. You can put things in its various pockets such as tennis racquets, water bottles, towels and more. There’s even a USB port for charging your smartphone.

Below the main storage pocket is where you can fit 72 tennis balls. Open the hopper and twice that amount will fit in. Below this is the feeder plate and mechanism that sucks the balls down into the shute and spits them out in your direction.

The brains of the unit are at the lower front end. This is also where the battery sits. With your purchase you do get a small remote and this can be used to switch the machine on and off. However, for customization you’ll need to use the control panel. This allows you to define the speed and feed rate. Next to that is a little lever which lets you define the trajectory (angle) of the balls.

Finally, there’s also an oscillator (optional purchase). It slips under the machine and plugs into the main battery. This moves the unit from left to right to give you a more challenging session. It makes sense to buy this with the Slinger Bag as it adds a different dimension to the workouts.

Battery life is about 3.5 hours on a single charge. This should be enough for at least two decent practice sessions.

Proton Tennis Ball Machine

Proton also has a tennis ball machine designed for portablity. However, unlike the Slinger Bag, this one looks more like the traditional thing.

Another device that has its origins in a crowdfunding campaign, the Proton Tennis Ball Machine is the lightest of the devices we cover in this article. Weighing just over 9kgs, it is probably the lighest fully featured ball machine on the market.

As far as dimensions, Proton is about half the size of a standard tennis ball machine. It measures only 38.1 x 43 x 22.9 cm. You could probably equate its size to a small carry-on suitcase.

The ball capacity of this one is around 100. The ball hopper collapses for easier storage and transport.

Control is done via the accompanying smartphone app. There is currently an iPhone version with a Beta Android app under development. The smartphone software allows you to specify the spin, speed, location and timing of shots. Or simply tap where you want the ball to go and let the app’s proprietary algorithms do the rest. In that sense, the Proton Tennis Ball Machine has more sophisticated controls than Slinger Bag.

You also have the option to customize everything via built-in controls on the machine itself. The digital input know lets you tweak the settings, and this is all displayed with highly visible LEDs.

The battery is good for around 1000 balls on a single charge. That’s about 5 hours. You can quickly swap it for a reserve battery allowing you more playing time between charges.

Spinshot Plus 2

Now we are moving into the territory of traditional tennis ball machines. These are bigger, more expensive and more functional than the portable kind.

One of these is the Spinshot Plus 2. This is a mid-range device that combines features from the original Spinshot Plus model with the advanced Player model.

Square in looks, its dimensions come in at 45.7 x 30.5 x 50.8 cm and weight at 18kgs. Despite the large size, you can lug the thing around with the built-in wheels. The ball capacity is around 120.

There are several ways to control Spinshot Plus 2. You can do this via the command panel on the side of the machine or download the smartphone app. This allows for full programming of drill settings. Another option is to purchase a remote control. The final option is to use an Apple Watch.

As far as power, you can rely on the battery for about 3 hours of playing time. Optionally, you can purchase a hybrid power and battery model. This lets you use an electricity outlet in addition to the battery.

Lobster Grand V Elite

The final machine on our list is the Lobster Grand V Elite. Another traditional looking machine, this one is quite different to the Spinshot Plus 2. In appearance, it reminds a little of a lawnmower.

At 20 kgs and measuring 73.7 x 53.3 x 39.4cm, this one is the largest and heaviest of the bunch. Luckily there’s a set of oversized wheels which make transport a breeze.

With a ball capacity of 150, there are plenty of functions on offer. The controls are built into the thing, but for ease of use you can purchase a feature-rich remote control. The remote is impressive, but it costs a hefty $300. The Lobster machine is definitely one for those with deep pockets.

A battery is good for between 4 and 8 hours of court time and you can purchase a quick swap reserve for $99. No electricity power option on this one.

Functionality: Slinger Bag vs Spinshot vs Lobster vs Proton

The four machines covered in this article have some similarities and differences when it comes to functionality. Apart from price, this will be most important to those considering a purchase.

The lowest spec of the lot is Slinger Bag. That one doesn’t have drills or anything like that. But you can control the speed of the balls (up to 73kph), angle of the balls and feed rate. As mentioned, there is also an oscillating bottom that you can purchase. If you’re getting the machine, we suggest you get this as well as it provides more realistic play.

All the balls have top spin so there is no way to define the spin of the ball. But this is not necessariliy a bad thing. On bounce the ball will speed up making it more difficult to hit. It forces you to learn to react quickly.

Proton has more in terms of functionality. It comes with sophisticated controls that in addition to all of the above allow you to control the spin of the balls. Plus the smartphone app makes customizing everything very easy. For a quick start simply choose between beginner, intermediate or advanced play options. Or select one of the built-in practice routines. This includes everything from footwork to stroke development and game situations.

Spinshot Plus 2 is not very different than Proton Tennis Ball machine in terms of functionality. Both allow for ball speeds up to around 110kmh and come with sophisticated smartphone controls for full programming of drill settings.

The final of the bunch is the most feature-rich one. The drills and programs can be customized to a whopping 18 shot locations. Tap into one of 12 pre-loaded court drills or customize your own by defining the shot location, ball speed, ball spin and the feed rate. Or opt for the fully random oscillation with random settings. That is as close to match play as you will get!

Price: Slinger Bag vs Spinshot vs Lobster vs Proton

Tennis ball machines are one of the most effective and fastest ways to improve your game. But most of these are heavy on your wallet.

With a more budget friendly price tag, Slinger Bag is designed to allow almost anyone to own a decent tennis ball launcher. It is the cheapest of all the machines we cover in this article starting at only $645. You are not going to find a less expensive tennis ball machine than that. The ones that are cheaper are more like toys than proper machines.

The Proton is about twice as expensive as the Slinger Bag. Those who don’t mind paying that much will appreciate the additional functionality and smaller size of the thing.

The traditional tennis ball machines are much more expensive. Spinshot Plus 2 starts at $1,899 and on top of that you can purchase an optional remote. This is probably the low-end price range of traditional tennis ball machines.

The most fully featured device in this article is the Lobster Grand V Elite. Its not surprising that it is much more expensive starting at $2,599. Throw in the remote control and you are approaching the $3,000 mark. This is a good option for clubs, or perhaps where a number of family members wish to regularly practice. Or perhaps one for those more ambitions about their tennis game.

The bottom line: Slinger Bag vs Spinshot vs Lobster vs Proton

We are fans of the Slinger Bag and don’t hide that fact. The device wins out in terms of looks and price. It is the first decent quality tennis ball machine that is available to the masses. For those starting out or intermediate players it is a nice option that won’t break the bank. Plus it looks great! (US purchase link; UK purchase link)

In terms of portability we would put Slinger Bag head-to-head with the Proton Tennis Ball Machine. That one is twice as expensive but it offers quite a bit more in terms of drills and smart controls. Plus it allows you to control the spin of the ball. Slinger Bag only sends balls with top spin. (hydrogensports.com – US only).

Very advanced players are likely to want to want a traditional tennis ball machine. Spinshot Plus 2 and Lobster Grand V Elite are two popular options. But they will be very heavy on your wallet. Particularly the Lobster. But for that you do get a professional tenis ball machine that offers endless options for practice and drills. (Spinshot Plus 2 – check price on Amazon; Lobster Grand V Elite – check price on Amazon).

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At first glance the buying spree may seem a bit strange. Particularly this latest transaction. A tennis ball launcher company purchases PlaySight – an outfit into AI video technology.

But Slinger has very lofty ambitions. These go far beyond a simple device that spits balls in your direction on the tennis court.

Essential reading: Top best connected tennis gear

We wrote back in June that the outfit is currently developing an app. The software is in development and Slinger has recently asked interested users to register as Beta testers. The app analyzes your technique, offers drills and more. When you take that into consideration, the recent acquisitions make much more sense.

We’ve tested lots of tennis gear over the years and Slinger Bag is right up there with the best of them. It takes the shape of an oversized tennis bag. As far as ball launchers go, you’ll struggle to find a smaller one with the same type of functionality – at that price. The only real competition is the Proton Ball Launcher. That one has recently become available but it is much more expensive.

In our review last year, we found that Slinger Bag delivers what it promises. An opponent that slings balls in your direction with consistency and decent pace. You can control the speed, angle and more. There’s clearly a lot to like.

The upcoming app should bring an entirely new element to Slinger Bag. The software will provide drills and there will be functionality that analyzes your technique. Basically, you will be able to capture a video on the court and the AI will identify elements that should be improved. You’ll even be able to benchmark yourself against other players.

No doubt, PlaySight’s knowhow in the areas of video technology, data capture, high performance analytics and automated video production will help to make the app truly useful. Something that has the ability to up your tennis game. PlaySight has lots of experience in this area. Its SmartCourt tennis platform has been used for years by athletes, coaches across different sports. Which is complimentary to Slinger’s ambition to move beyond tennis.

Slinger says its ultimate aim is to develop a “full suite of ‘Watch, Play and Learn’ solutions”. Which is all great news. Unless, of course, you are a tennis coach! Those of us who own the Slinger Bag are anxiously anticipating the new smartphone capabilities.

The Slinger Bag can be purchased on this link. In the UK you can buy it here.

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The post Slinger snaps up PlaySight in bid to become connected tennis tech leader appeared first on Gadgets & Wearables.

What makes this machine unique is that it is compact and smart phone controlled. We first wrote about it nearly two years ago. At the time the plan was to complete initial manufacturing a year later. But it has taken them double that time to achieve this goal.

Some five years in the making, Proton is about half the size of a standard tennis ball machine (15” x 17” x 9”). You could probably equate its size to a small carry-on suitcase. The thing is also very lightweight, coming in at just 8 kilograms, and that’s with the battery.

Essential reading: Tennis gadgets and trackers to improve your game

Proton can fling balls in your direction at speeds of up to 70 mph and maximum spin of 3000 rpm which is right up there with fully sized machines. The ball capacity is 100 tennis balls.

Apart from the small size, the most novel aspect of Proton are its smart controls. You can use the accompanying smartphone app to specify the spin, speed, location and timing of shots. Or tap where you want the ball to go and let the app’s proprietary algorithms do the rest.

There are also multiple built-in practice routines. This includes everything from footwork to stroke development and game situations.

“After leaving Apple four years ago, I bought a ball machine to work on my game and was disappointed in how primitive and heavy the machines were,” said Jonah Harley, founder and CEO of Hydrogen Sports when the product was announced in 2019.

“Technology has advanced so much since these machines were designed in the 1980s, especially in motors, batteries and our access to smartphones. Leveraging state of the art technology, we were able to design a machine from the ground up that dramatically improves the experience and portability of the tennis ball machine.”

The machine has a few similarities with Slinger, a portable tennis ball launcher that takes the shape of a tennis bag. The gizmo raised over $1.6 million on Kickstarter and Indiegogo a few years ago. That one has been on the market for a while now. In our review in 2020, we found that Slinger works well, it looks great, you can fit a lot of tennis balls inside and you can customize everything to your level of play.

Proton and Slinger weight about the same and are similarly sized so are both portable. But Slinger can only achieve speeds of up to 45mph and lacks the sophisticated smartphone app controls. It is much cheaper, though, and looks better.

For now Proton is only available in the contiguous United States. The outfit will be adding more machines weekly for the next 2-3 weeks. At the end of November a larger shipment is expected.

One of these will set you back $1,595 on hydrogensports.com This might seem like a lot (and it is), but it’s actually less than half the price of fully sized ball machines. As mentioned, you can check out Slinger which does much of the same but is about half the price.

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There are lots of tennis gadgets you can buy but perhaps the most interesting of all is In/Out. Unlike anything else other there, it brings automatic line calling during tennis play to the masses. You essentially get your own personal ‘Hawkeye’ system.

The GoPro like device can be fastened to any tennis net post in less than a minute to detect in real-time which side of the line the ball lands. It does this thanks to the same algorithms that keep self driving cars on the road.

Essential reading: Tennis gadgets and trackers to improve your game

We tested out the first generation product and found that it worked pretty well. Not perfect all the time as the margin of error is up to 20-30mm. For us the more useful aspect of the product was the video replay.

With two cameras recording both sides of the court in 1080p, you get a split view of all the action. Perfect for analysis of form. Other features include stats such as shot placement by zone. The percentages are calculated for both players.

In/Out 3.0 – what’s new?

Now the startup has announced In/Out 3.0, which is actually the fourth generation of the product. It comes with a few useful updates.

More accuracy

The company says the latest version of In/out is 200% more accurate than before. This should help make those arguments about line calls a thing of the past. Plus, as before, you get a snapshot of the ball bounce from the line perspective to review any calls. A forthcoming firmware upgrade will enable it to even detect serve foot faults.

An additional camera

In addition to the two cameras each recording one side of the court, In/Out 3.0 has a third one.

It comes with a wide angle camera for recording videos like you see in official matches. Check out the sample below.

In/Out features now a third wide-angle camera. Your videos are going to be outstanding like you see on TV! pic.twitter.com/A5lt8b7BCs

— In/Out (@inout_tennis) May 17, 2021

More sports tracked

The company has also added pickleball as an activity that you can track in addition to tennis. The Chinese market has the addition of badminton support.

The hardware itself was a bit flimsy on the first generation product. This was greatly improved with the second version. The third on continues these improvements and there are optional hardware add-ons for different conditions and added protection. New and more reliable batteries are also in stock.

In/Out 3.0 – How to order, price

You can order to new In/Out for $275. That is the price for a single Net device and which will work fine for practice matches, video recording and stats analysis.

For official matches the outfit recommends you buy two units – one for each end of the net. Added accuracy can be achieved by opting for individual Line devices.

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