This is my second paddle. My first one, I knew it was entry level and started doing my research. But after getting this one and comparing them, it is night and day difference. The weight distribution on this one is spot on, the quality of the feel, the handle, and the texture on the paddle for ball control. For the price of the entry level compared to this one, this is a no brainer. I've known people to go through dozens of paddles and this one being my second, put me right at the top of some of their 100-200 dollar paddles.
Although I've only used it twice so far. I'm happy with the feel and weight of this paddle. It's also very affordable for a newbie!
Over the course of playing 2 years, other players have let me try their paddles. After 3 or 4 rallies I say "thank you" and hand the paddle back. And overall, their paddles have left no significant impressions with me.
From the start, this paddle connected with me. I found my shots were controlled and consistent. I tried various shots with a spin and they worked well. I also practiced awhile serving with very good results. For the price, this is a very nice paddle. Since I was just getting ready to look for a new paddle (my other one is 1+ years old), I'm placing the search on hold, and I plan to make this my new paddle for now.
A couple notes of interest. 1. The paddle has an aluminum surface. So, it sounds like an aluminum baseball bat hitting a ball. Definitely a different sound, but not a negative. 2. For dink shots, both I and a fellow player noticed the ball did not "pop" off the paddle like my prior paddle. I don't consider this a flaw, but rather a difference and something I need to adjust to. I've played 10+ games with this paddle so far, and already I'm noticing better success with my dink shots.
This gentle booms aluminum paddle has been a good beginner paddle for me! It has a nice textured surface for imparting spin to the ball. It also makes a louder more distinct sound than the usual poly core paddles. People have warned me that the aluminum paddles tend to dent over time but as a beginner no issues here yet.
The sweet spot is dam good and very controlled. The grip quality is excellent and it's comfortable. It also comes with the eraser you don't see with most products. It also has good surface area which gives you more coverage. overall it's a great product at this price point.