Our baseball bat reviews are designed to help you weigh tradeoffs to find the best fit. We collaborate with players and gear experts to review each bat based on pop (energy transfer to the ball), durability (resistance to breaking), and vibration (feedback outside the sweet spot). Rankings are updated weekly based on SidelineSwap sales data.
Tony is the founder of North Texas Baseball Club (est. 2008) which provides an environment where youth baseball players can maximize their potential.
Parker has played baseball his entire life and received a BA in Sports and Fitness Administration from Siena Heights University.
The CamWood Trainer is a specialized bat that enhances exit velocity and power while maintaining swing mechanics. Unlike traditional heavy bats, it places added weight above the hands for a balanced feel. This design allows you to train with a heavier bat, boosting your power and strength without sacrificing technique.
The Louisville Slugger Select PWR (Power) series caters to power hitters with a BBCOR, USA, and USSSA model. The Select PWR bat features an Updated Premium LS Pro Comfort Grip, which provides better cushion and tack for batters. The stiff composite handle provides tons of control, while the heavier-swinging EXD Premium Alloy Barrel offers a large sweet spot for consistent, explosive pop.
The Louiseville Select PWR bat is one of the hottest bass out there for hybrids. The BBCOR model is a heavier bat and is in the same category as The Goods by DeMarini. Only about 20% of the market is going to be able to use this bat just because of it’s weight. It’s designed for a power hitter who likes a stiff feel and big barrel.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Rawlings Icon is a two-piece composite baseball bat designed for improved performance with a large barrel and lighter swing. Available in BBCOR, USSSA, and USA models, it replaces the Quatro Pro as Rawlings’ top offering. Its advanced In/Tense composite construction maximizes barrel size, while Zero Loss technology enhances durability and handle flex for a smooth swing.
The Icon is the new hot bat from Rawlings. It's the top bat in the market right now. In terms of sales, very popular. You've got a lot of guys online doing reviews on it. I think the hype comes from the merger between Easton and Rawlings. They've got a lot of technology and have come up with a really strong-performing bat this season.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Easton Hype Fire Baseball Bat is USSSA and USA-approved, featuring a redesigned Thermo Composite Technology barrel for a large sweet spot and consistent power. The Opti-Flex handle optimizes stiffness for balanced swing control, while the Power Boost Soft Knob reduces vibration and enhances grip comfort, allowing players to focus on hitting.
The Hype Fire is a balanced, two piece composite bat with a very fast swing rate. The first ones that came out had some breakage issues but they are now on the second gen. We've not seen any of the new ones breaking. And to top it all off, it has the coolest paint job. The players love the flames. Certain leauges are starting to ban this bat, check that before you buy.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Marucci CAT X Baseball Bat features both BBCOR and USSSA certifications and is a single-piece alloy bat with a well-sized barrel and excellent feel. Its multi-variable wall Ring-Free barrel provides consistent power across leagues, while the stiff S-40 composite handle offers a balanced swing weight and reduces vibration for improved comfort. The CAT X also features liquid-gel in the knob which reduces vibrations throughout the hands.
CATX came out in 2023. The first gen is a white ribbon silver bat. For the second run, Marucci came out with a version called the CATX Vanta. It's a blacked-out, limited-edition. Both gens are an alloy one-piece bat, both very strong performers. They took the alloy and strength from the CAT9 and applied the balance and feel from the CAT8 to develop the CATX.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Goods series from DeMarini is available in BBCOR, USA, and USSSA and features a hybrid "Half + Half" construction, combining an alloy barrel with a composite handle. Designed for power hitters, it offers an end-loaded swing weight and effective energy transfer. With its X14 Alloy Barrel, The Goods ensures maximum stiffness and a large sweet spot, resulting in exceptional pop.
The Goods is a top performer and the newest model is the most expensive hybrid bat on the market. It's an end loaded bat for that power hitter in your lineup. The alloy is strong, and it has a good whip to it. Overall, The Goods is in the top five in the hybrids for both BBCOR and youth. The youth was less popular because it was a heavier-feeling.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Warstic Bonesaber is offered in BBCOR, USSSA, and USA models, made from ultra-light alloy. It features a Katana2X Alloy Barrel with a double taper for enhanced swing speed and feel. The thinner handle and Pommel Precision Knob provide excellent comfort and bat control. It also comes in Small Batch Battle Pink and Black Cobra versions.
The Warstic Bonesaber is a single-piece aluminum bat known for its unique flared knob. It resembles some of the wood bats that the pro ball players use. Which is why I think some players go for it. But performance-wise, it's not my favorite bat. It's stiff and a little on the heavy side.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Louisville Slugger Meta series includes BBCOR, USA, and USSSA versions and is known for its advanced technology in baseball bats. With the patented 3FX Connection System and EKO™ Composite Barrel, the Meta offers powerful performance and a stiff feel with minimal vibration and a large sweet spot.
The Louisville Slugger Meta is still a slightly newer model. The Meta is similar to the DeMarini CF which offers a lightweight composite handle with a huge barrel made for every sort of hitter. A popular series that offers great jump-off-the-barrel when you hit the sweet spot and keeps the sting off your hands when the ball is missed on the cap or handle.
Parker Swartz
The Louisville Slugger Atlas is available in BBCOR, USA, and USSSA models and is designed using AI insights. It features a variable barrel thickness for a larger sweet spot, maximizing power on swings. The one-piece alloy construction offers durability and responsiveness, while a tuned mass damper in the handle absorbs vibration and reduces sting on mishits. The Premium LS Pro Comfort Grip is applied to the handle for added comfort and bat control.
The Louieville Slugger Atlas is a newer bat that's been out for a couple years now. It's the next bat in the same generation as the Louisville Slugger Solo. It's a one-piece design, very easy to swing. Flashy paint job. It’s one of the top couple of bats in the alloy market.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Soldier Sports Tank baseball bat caters to power and contact hitters, featuring Infused Power Alloy Technology and an enlarged sweet spot for enhanced performance. Its light swing weight and carbon fiber speed end cap improve speed and whip, while the comfortable grip and full taper design offer better control. Available in BBCOR and USSSA models, the Soldier Sports Tank Bat is a strong choice for serious hitters seeking top performance.
The DeMarini Zen has a lightweight Dark Matter Composite Barrel, designed with a wider profile, allowing players to cover more of the plate with each swing. The gradual taper enhances performance, empowering hitters to consistently make solid contact and drive the ball. The Zen's two-piece construction, featuring a composite handle and forgiving Anomaly Connection System, transforms elite swing speeds into explosive exit velocities, helping players rack up extra-base hits and dominate the game.
The Rawlings Clout AI baseball bat, available in USSSA, USA, and BBCOR versions, features an AI-powered design for optimized performance. It boasts an extended barrel with an impressive sweet spot and the responsiveness of a mid-weight bat. Made from Red Alloy+, a durable aerospace-grade alloy, the Clout AI delivers exceptional durability and power.
The kids love this bat. It preforms very well for an all alloy bat. Does well in the cold too. The swing weight is slightly end loaded but not far from being a balanced bat. Pretty hot right out of the wrapper and comes in more affordable than the Atlas and Voodoo.
Gary Salerno
The Dirty South Made drop 10 baseball bat is a two-piece composite bat designed for added comfort and control. With its lightweight swing weight and focus on dampening sting, the bat is ideal for younger players seeking a powerful and forgiving option. The two-piece construction allows for greater flexibility in design, while the single-piece drop 12 model offers maximum power and an enormous barrel. The Dirty South Made bats are known for their quality craftsmanship and exceptional performance.
The Victus Vibe Baseball Bat features Vibration Dampening Technology to reduce sting and absorb impact. Its one-piece alloy construction offers durability and a balanced swing weight, suitable for both power hitters and contact players. The Vibe also features a Ringless Barrel Design which creates a thinner, more flexible sweet spot for enhanced performance.
The kids love the look of this bat. It's very colorful and as they would say "drippy." Confidence at the plate means a lot. The Vibe preforms well and has good pop, but I think you're overpaying for the flashy design.
Gary Salerno
The Rawlings Clout Baseball Bat is a one-piece, all-alloy construction featuring the exclusive RED Alloy+. It’s available in USSSA and BBCOR versions. The thin walls and Flex Technology provide a unique feel and reduce vibration, ensuring a comfortable and effective swing. Available in a sleek blue and black colorway, the Clout is a top choice for young hitters looking to elevate their game. With its balanced swing feel, user-friendly design, and exceptional performance, the Rawlings Clout is a great option.
Designed for a traditional, balanced swing, the Marucci AM22 Pro Model Maple Bat is crafted from premium maple wood for exceptional contact and power. Its thick handle and tapered knob offer a comfortable grip and optimal control while its fog-whitewash finish adds a classic aesthetic. Ideal for players seeking a reliable, high-performance bat
The AM22 is a very well balanced wood bat. It's for the kid that is just starting to get into wood because it swings really light. It's a very easy bat to control. Not really for your power hitters.
Gary Salerno
The classic Easton Maxum Ultra is a top-tier baseball bat specially designed for advanced-level players that require extra surface area and added mass. The Ultra bat features a Carbon Construction to have the feel of a 1-piece bat, with the flow of of a composite bat. With an XXL barrel for extra surface area, a re-balanced feel for added mass, and a end loaded swing for increased accuracy, the Easton Maxum Ultra has everything you need to take your game to the next level.
The Marucci CAT X Vanta Baseball Bat features a one-piece alloy construction made from aerospace-grade aluminum, combining strength and performance. With a multi-variable wall thickness, it offers an extended sweet spot and faster swing speeds. The ring-free barrel technology ensures consistent power, while its precision-balanced design and soft-touch grip provide excellent feel and control, minimizing vibrations on off-center hits.
The Vanta was supposed to be a limited edition but they ended up mass producing it. It's the same thing at the CatX but just a different color. They made it black instead of white. It has a bit of an end loaded feel to it. Everyone likes the Marucci grips, when kids pick it up they always say it "feels great in their hands."
Gary Salerno
The Marucci F5 Baseball Bat features a one-piece alloy construction that combines a traditional feel with modern performance. Its multi-variable wall design expands the sweet spot, while the balanced swing weight offers effortless control for both power hitters and contact players. With a precision-balanced barrel for faster speeds and a micro-perforated grip for comfort, the F5 is ideal for youth, high school, and collegiate athletes seeking to elevate their game.
The Easton Hype Comp baseball bat comes in BBCOR and USSSA models. It features end-to-end Thermo Composite Technology, which maximizes sweet spot and bat speed. The ConneXion Max 2-piece design enhances energy transfer from handle to barrel, while the Power Boost Soft Knob technology and Pro-Stiff carbon handle unlock hidden power. The combination of these features results in a forceful "pop" and performance on the plate.
The Combat B2 Ultra baseball bat is a one-piece, all-composite bat offered in USSSA and BBCOR models. The B2 delivers a stiff feel and exceptional power transfer. The ATB composite construction, engineered with computer-controlled precision, provides a technologically advanced barrel for maximum performance. The B2's balanced swing weight and 2 3/4 inch barrel diameter make it a versatile option for hitters seeking power and control.
The Marucci AP5 Pro Model wood bat is built for power hitters. This bat helps control powerful swings with a tapered knob and traditional handle design—a combination that maximizes bat speed and power potential while maintaining some feel for the barrel during the swing. The AP5 is Bone rubbed for ultimate wood density, and it prioritizes power with a touch of control.
The Victor V-Cut is a high-performance baseball bat crafted from premium maple wood, offering the same quality and feel as bats used by professional players. While it may lack some cosmetic options, the V-Cut's exceptional performance and durability make it a top choice for serious hitters. With its natural wood grain and unique V-shaped design, this bat provides a classic aesthetic. Although availability may be limited, the Victor V-Cut is a sought-after bat for those seeking a top-tier option.
This bat is for the player who doesn't know how to line their fingers up yet. Pretty good value for a wood bat. It's got a balanced feel and solid pop.
Gary Salerno
The Easton Encore Hybrid Baseball Bat features a two-piece hybrid construction with a Thermo Composite Technology (TCT™) barrel for maximum performance and a lightweight alloy handle for better balance. Its ConneXion™ technology improves energy transfer and reduces vibrations for a smoother hitting experience. The XXL barrel design provides an expanded sweet spot for consistent contact, while the Power Boost™ “Soft Knob” technology enhances leverage and reduces hand fatigue, making it ideal for power hitters and contact players.
The Select 718 Baseball Bat features a hybrid construction, combining ST 7U1+ alloy and composite materials for a robust yet lightweight design. The patented TRU3™ technology reduces vibration and provides unmatched feel on contact, while the Speed Ballistic Composite (SBC) end cap enhances swing speed for quicker reactions and improved control. The Select 718's three-piece construction offers maximum energy transfer and a balanced swing weight for powerful hits without sacrificing accuracy.
The Easton Mako swings smoothly for young players, thanks to its lightweight composite construction and large sweet spot. This durable two-piece design is balanced and easy to control and allows for a focus on developing swing mechanics. The large sweet spot offers forgiveness on off-center hits, boosting confidence at the plate.
The Marucci CAT Connect baseball bat is a high-performance bat featuring AZ105 Alloy, the strongest aluminum in the Marucci bat line. The Multi-Variable Wall Design expands the sweet spot and thins the barrel walls for improved forgiveness, while the SDX LT vibration-dampening layer reduces sting and weight. It comes in an USA and BBCOR model. The AV2 knob enhances feel and vibration feedback. With its powerful performance and innovative features, the CAT Connect is a top-choice for hitters seeking a high-quality bat.
The Marucci CAT X Connect Baseball Bat, available in BBCOR and USSSA versions, features a two-piece hybrid design with an AZR alloy barrel and a stiff S-40 composite handle. Its Ring-Free barrel offers a large sweet spot for consistent power, while the 10 times stiffer S-40 handle ensures faster energy transfer and minimizes vibration. This design enhances performance and increases the chance of home runs.
The CATX Connect is a hybrid bat. It's a strong performer. It's top five in the hybrid market. Very easy to swing, very well balanced. There's a good nature to it; it doesn't dent. It's very durable. But it is an end-loaded bat and a two-piece hybrid, so it's more designed for the power hitter and for stronger players.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
DeMarini's CF baseball bat is available in USA, USSSA, and BBCOR versions, designed for players who want a balance of power and control. Its lightweight, two-piece composite construction enhances swing speed, and the Paraflex Plus Composite Barrel offers a large sweet spot for consistent contact. The 3-Fusion End Cap further boosts this sweet spot, providing explosive pop with every swing, helping hitters enhance their skills.
The DeMarini CF is a classic model that goes back to 2015 and offers one of the hottest models (2017) but is limited in use as its performance surpasses bat standards. Overall, the CF has a classic design which has been the same since 2015. A two-piece composite that offers a large barrel and sweet spot with a lightweight handle that creates a whip-like feel to it with the flexible connection between the handle and barrel.
Parker Swartz
The Easton ADV 360 is available in USA and BBCOR models and features Launch Composite Technology, a larger barrel contour, and a responsive sweet spot for consistent performance. Its two-piece iSO ConneXion design absorbs vibration, providing an exceptional feel at contact. The ADV 360 also features Easton's premium Flock-Tack Grip which makes the bat feel extremely comfortable in the batter's hands at all times.
The Easton ADV 360 is a two-piece composite bat. It has a light swing and big barrel. Perfect for the younger hitter. I think it's popular because of the paint job, which is bright neon yellow. It is more of a look than a performance bat, but still a very good bat that doesn’t have a huge amount of breakage. It's an average bat for either Little League or USSSA.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Marucci CAT X Composite Bat comes in both BBCOR and USSSA versions. It features a stiff S-40 composite handle for a balanced swing, making it ideal for developing hitters. The finely tuned composite barrel offers a large sweet spot for a trampoline effect on well-struck balls, while the outer-locking system reduces vibration for a comfortable feel, helping players focus on their swings.
The CAT X Composite is very, very easy to swing. Not quite as popular as the CF in terms of performance. There are newer Marucci bats out there that are stronger, hotter-performing bats. But it's still a top top-tier bat. It's right up there with the CAT9 composite, but it doesn't get the notoriety because you've got some newer bats on the market with cooler paint jobs.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The DeMarini Voodoo One is a top choice for players seeking a one-piece alloy bat. It offers a powerful swing with a large sweet spot, thanks to its X14 Alloy Barrel for maximum pop and a lightweight Tracer End Cap for increased bat speed. The balanced feel and composite grip also help reduce sting on mishits.
DeMarini's Voodoo One swings light and offers a ton of pop thanks to its stiff one-piece alloy construction. While the small barrel might not be for everyone, contact hitters and power swingers both appreciate its speed and distance potential. If you're a player seeking a light bat with serious pop, the Voodoo One deserves a swing.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Louisville Slugger Meta Prime is a standout among high-performance baseball bats, known for its advanced technology and premium materials. The Meta Prime is a top-of-the-line model featuring a massive EKO composite barrel for explosive pop. Its large sweet spot delivers a loud crack on contact balanced out by a comfortable swing weight for precision contact. The 3FX Connection System reduces vibration on mis-hits, while the LS Pro Comfort Grip ensures you stay locked in at the plate.
If you're looking for the best BBCOR bat money can buy, the Meta Prime is definitely worth considering. It’s a fantastic bat for serious players looking to maximize their performance. The pop, balance, and comfort are top-notch. However, the price tag is a major drawback. If you're a high school player or someone on a tight budget, there are better options out there, like the 2020 Meta, which is essentially the same bat as the 2019 Meta Prime, but cheaper.
Parker Swartz
The DeMarini Voodoo Bat comes in BBCOR, USA, and USSSA models. It's a two-piece hybrid which combines Voodoo’s signature X14 Alloy Barrel for explosive power with a balanced swing weight. Perfect for high school and college players, the Voodoo features a Fortified Metal Compound Knob which is a combination of alloy and composite materials that allow player's to have improved leverage, and enhanced durability.
The Voodoo is a heavier bat designed for larger players who want more power and distance. It's one of the better performers in that two-piece design; it's a composite handle with an alloy barrel, which means they call it a hybrid because it has both materials inside the bat (alloy and composite), giving it an end-loaded feel.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The DeMarini Zoa baseball bat is designed for young travel ball players, offering explosive power and a forgiving feel. Its Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel maximizes the sweet spot for consistent contact and extra-base hits. The two-piece composite construction ensures a lightweight swing for better control and faster bat speed, helping young hitters generate more power. The Zoa comes in various USSSA and BBCOR models to meet different league requirements.
The Zoa has a strong barrel and connection, making it a heavier, end loaded bat overall. Your smaller players won't get the same bat speed or same performance with the Zoa as they do with the CF. The Zoa is one of those power hitter two-piece composites.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Easton ADV 1 Baseball Bat is a one-piece composite that features Launch Comp technology for a large sweet spot and power on contact. Its Carbon Zero handle, made of 90% carbon fiber, reduces vibration and enhances control. With a balanced swing weight and USA Baseball certification, it’s an excellent choice for young players looking to improve their game.
The ADV1 is ready to use right out of the box. Unlike some composite bats that take time to break in, this one delivers from day one. No waiting around for weeks to see its full potential – kids can hit the ground running. It's not perfect for everyone. The ADV1 has a stiffer feel than some traditional aluminum bats, so it might not be ideal for smaller players who prioritize a super light swing.
Parker Swartz
The DeMarini CF Zen baseball bat features a lightweight, two-piece composite design for smooth swings and excellent bat control. Its Paraflex Plus Composite Barrel provides a large sweet spot for consistent, powerful hits, while the 3-Fusion End Cap enhances the sweet spot for greater exit velocity. For even more power, consider the 2017 Green Zen (aka the Green GOAT).
The CF Zen has been discontinued. The early models from 2017 - 2021 were called CF Zens. After that, DeMarini changed the name to CF. The first models of the CF Zen were very high-performance. But they also tended to break, so DeMarini made them stronger, made them stiffer, made them more durable. And when they did that, the bats didn't hit as well. The early models were better performers than the later models.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Marucci CAT 8 features AZ105 Alloy, the strongest aluminum in Marucci's lineup, allowing for thinner barrel walls and improved durability. It has an expanded sweet spot and a 2nd generation AV2 Anti-Vibration Knob for better feel. With its one-piece alloy construction and tapered handle with a soft-touch grip, batters gain better control at the plate.
The CAT8 is an older model from 2019 and a good BBCOR and USSSA bat. Very good performing bat with a sound that players love. Lightweight and easy to swing. It's probably one of the best sellers, and since the CAT8 is still available, it's perhaps one of the better bang for the buck. Prices dropped for this older model. So, it is a good match for an entry-level player on a tight budget.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Easton Ghost X Evolution baseball bat is ideal for young players seeking a big barrel USA or USSSA option. Its two-piece composite design includes NITROCELL foam for a lightweight swing, while the EXACT Carbon barrel offers a large sweet spot for powerful hits. The Speed Cap flexes on contact, enhancing feel and pop, making it a great choice for elevating young players' game.
The Ghost X Evolution is a two piece composite bat. It’s one of the better Little League bats of 2019 because it has a lighter weight and is easy to swing. In the USA marketplace, it was probably one of the better bats. It has a cool paint job, which is attractive for a Little Leaguer, where looks can often be more of a consideration than performance.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The DeMarini Zoa Glitch Baseball Bat is designed to dominate the travel ball circuit. This limited edition bat features a Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel, optimized for a massive sweet spot that translates into consistent extra-base hits. The two-piece composite construction keeps the bat lightweight for a smooth swing and faster bat speed, allowing young players to generate more power on every swing. The Zoa Glitch boasts a bold design with a balanced swing weight.
The Zoa is a two piece composite. Very good bat. It has a bit of an end loaded feel to it. The Zoa Glitch is just the Zoa with a flashy paint job. For around $50 more, you can get this special color. They survey the kids each year and ask, "What's your favorite color"? It doesn't make the bat perform any better. But you know, fashion counts for something. Whatever makes your kid feel confident at the plate is worth it.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
Louisville Slugger's C271 has a classic pro-style design—a medium barrel profile, a standard handle, and a balanced swing weight. Made from high-quality maple, this bat also features an durable EXOPRO finish. The C271 delivers a solid feel on contact with a large sweet spot, making it a great option for players hoping to train with a traditional wood bat that delivers both power and control.
The Marucci CAT 9 features a single piece of aluminum with multivariable wall thickness, extending the sweet spot and reducing swing weight. The CAT9 features a Ring-free barrel which allows for more flex within the barrel and minimizes dead spots through the bat. This model includes new technologies like the AV2 knob to dampen sting on mishits and is available in BBCOR, USSSA, and USA versions.
They took the same design from the CAT8 and strengthened the CAT9 with a stronger alloy to avoid any denting issues. It's a very good, durable bat. The CAT9 will be a bit heavier than the CAT8; it's a better bat for stronger players. The first generation of the CAT9 came out with a gray, black, and red paint job. The second generation they called the Past Time, which was red, white, and blue. It's the same bat, but a different paint job. The second bat was more popular simply because of how it looked. Everyone likes the American Flag with its Stars and Stripes.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)
The Marucci CAT USA baseball bat is packed with power and precision. The CAT features AZ105 Alloy, Marucci's strongest aluminum for a thinner, more responsive barrel. The Multi-Variable Wall Design expands the sweet spot and enhances durability, while the second-generation AV2 knob provides superior feel and vibration control.
The Marucci CAT is designed for Little League. It has that USA stamp, which means it has a lightweight feel and good control. The CAT has an affordable price point, so it won't break the bank. A lot of parents get this bat specifically because it's a quality bat with a good bang for the buck.
Tony Benz (Bat Seller)