Are there differences between tennis balls and padel balls?

At first glance, tennis balls and padel balls look almost the same. Both are bright in colour, round, and covered with felt. Many beginners believe they can be used in either sport without problem. But that is not true. There are real and important differences between the two types of balls. These differences affect the way the game is played, the speed of the rallies, and even how long the balls last.

This article will explain these differences in simple terms. We will compare size, weight, pressure, bounce, and materials. We will also explain how these changes impact the experience of players on the court.

Size and Dimensions

One of the first differences lies in the size of the balls.

• Padel balls are a little smaller. Their diameter is between 6.35 and 6.77 cm.

• Tennis balls are slightly bigger, with a diameter between 6.54 and 6.86 cm.

The change in size may look small, but it has a big impact on the way the ball moves. A smaller padel ball travels slower and gives players more control, which is why players in padel Dubai courts often notice the difference during rallies. A tennis ball is larger, so it bounces higher and moves faster across the wider court.

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Weight Differences

The weight of both balls is close, but not exactly the same.

• Padel balls weigh between 56 and 59.5 grams.

• Tennis balls usually weigh between 56.7 and 58.5 grams.

This tiny difference in weight means that tennis balls feel heavier in fast swings, while padel balls feel lighter and easier to control during shorter rallies. Even a small change in weight can change how the ball reacts to the racket.

Internal Pressure

The inside of the ball is another key factor.

• Padel balls have lower pressure, usually around 10–11 psi.

• Tennis balls have higher pressure, around 14 psi.

Because padel balls have less pressure, they bounce less. This makes rallies longer and more strategic. Tennis balls, with higher pressure, bounce faster and fly further. That suits tennis, which is played on a much bigger court.

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Bounce Height

Bounce is what most players notice first.

• Padel balls bounce between 135 and 145 cm when dropped from a height of 254 cm.

• Tennis balls bounce between 135 and 147 cm from the same height.

Even though the numbers look close, tennis balls feel livelier on court. Padel balls have a softer bounce, which matches the slower and more controlled style of padel. Tennis balls need the extra bounce to cross longer distances.

Materials and Felt

Both balls are made of rubber and covered in felt. But there are small differences.

• Tennis balls sometimes have thicker felt. This makes them stronger and able to last longer on rough surfaces like clay. Tennis balls can also be pressureless or gas-filled. Pressureless balls last longer but feel harder. Gas-filled balls give a softer start but lose pressure faster.

• Padel balls are always gas-filled. This keeps them softer and easier to play with at first. However, they also lose their best bounce over time, so players often need to change them more often.

The felt itself can be natural or synthetic. Natural felt gives more grip and control, while synthetic felt makes the ball faster. This affects the style of the game in both sports.

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Lifespan and Durability

Another point to note is how long the balls stay in good condition.

• Padel balls lose pressure faster. After a few games, they can feel too soft and may need replacing.

• Tennis balls often last longer, especially pressureless versions, though they may feel harder to hit.

Players should always choose the right ball for their sport. Using a tennis ball in padel can change the nature of the game and even risk damaging rackets or courts.

Environmental and Weather Impact

Both types of balls are also affected by where you play.

At higher altitudes, balls bounce more because the air is thinner. For this reason, special high-altitude balls are sometimes used.

In hot weather, balls can feel faster, while in cold weather they may feel heavy and less bouncy.

Padel, being a newer sport, often adapts its ball choice more carefully to suit the conditions.

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Why the Differences Matter

The differences between tennis balls and padel balls are not only about numbers. They shape the feel and flow of each sport. Tennis is fast and powerful, with players covering a large court and hitting strong strokes. Padel is slower, with clever rallies and tactics, where players rely on control and placement.

Choosing the right ball is not just about following rules. It ensures that the sport is played as it was designed to be enjoyed.

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Conclusion

Tennis balls and padel balls may look alike at first, but their differences are clear. They vary in size, weight, pressure, bounce, and felt. These changes affect how long the balls last, how they move, and how players experience the game.

For tennis, the ball needs to be fast and bouncy to match the court and the style of play. For padel, the ball is softer and slower to make rallies longer and more tactical.

Play with the Right Balls at Club Padel Dubai

Understanding the differences between tennis balls and padel balls is key to enjoying each sport to the fullest. If you want to experience the best of padel in Dubai, visit Club Padel Dubai. Our courts are designed for all levels, and we provide high-quality equipment to match the game.

Book your session today at Club Padel Dubai and discover how the right ball can change your game.

Frequently Asked Question

Can I use tennis balls for padel?

You should not use tennis balls for padel. Tennis balls have higher pressure and a bigger size, which makes the game too fast and changes its nature. Padel courts are smaller, and the lower-pressure padel balls ensure rallies last longer and shots remain controlled.

Why do padel balls lose pressure faster?

Padel balls are always gas-filled, which gives them a soft feel and good bounce at first. Over time, the gas escapes through the rubber, and the ball becomes flat. This is why padel balls often need replacing sooner than tennis balls, especially after a few matches.

Do altitude and weather affect padel and tennis balls?

Yes, both altitude and weather impact ball behaviour. At high altitudes, the air is thinner, so balls bounce higher and move faster. In hot weather, balls feel lighter and quicker. In cold weather, they feel heavy and bounce less. Special high-altitude balls are sometimes used.

Are padel balls smaller than tennis balls?

Yes, padel balls are slightly smaller. Their diameter is 6.35 to 6.77 cm, compared with 6.54 to 6.86 cm for tennis balls. This small size difference, combined with lower pressure, makes padel balls easier to control and better suited for rallies and rebound play against court walls.

How often should padel balls be replaced?

Padel balls should usually be replaced after three to five matches. Their lower internal pressure means they lose bounce more quickly. Professional players often change balls more often to keep quality consistent. Recreational players may stretch usage longer, but older balls affect the feel of the game.