Lobster Tennis Ball Machines: What You Need to Know
Lobster is a brand of tennis ball machines, not a seafood company. The Lobster Elite series has been one of the best-selling tennis ball machines for over 20 years. The company, based in California, has manufactured tennis training equipment since 1971. The name Lobster was chosen because the machines pick up balls with a claw-like mechanism on certain models, though the brand is now best known for the Elite line of portable machines.
The **Lobster Elite 2** is the entry-level model in the series. It holds 110 balls and includes random oscillation, which varies the direction of each shot to simulate real play. The machine can be programmed for groundstrokes, volleys, and lobs. It runs on a rechargeable battery that lasts 4 to 6 hours per charge. The Elite 2 retails for 1,200 dollars and is the most popular model for high school and college tennis programs.
The **Lobster Elite 3** adds two-line oscillation and a remote control. The two-line oscillation alternates shots between two preset directions, which is useful for drilling specific patterns. The remote control lets players adjust speed, spin, and trajectory without walking back to the machine. The Elite 3 retails for 1,500 dollars and is the model most often recommended by tennis coaches.
Both models weigh about 45 pounds and fit in the trunk of most cars. They include a carrying handle and wheels for transport. Lobster machines are known for reliability, with most units lasting 5 to 8 years with regular use according to user reviews on Tennis Warehouse.
For tennis players looking to improve their game, both the Elite 2 and Elite 3 offer excellent value compared to competitors like Sports Tutor and Playmate. Lobster machines sit in the mid-range of the market, priced below premium German-made models but above budget Chinese imports.
The key difference between Lobster and the competition is simplicity. Lobster machines have fewer features than premium models but are easier to set up and maintain. Replacement parts are widely available and the company offers a 2-year warranty on all Elite series machines. For serious recreational players, the Elite 2 provides everything needed without overpaying for features that most players never use.
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