Love softball games? Clearly, you share my passion for softball and hitting. But if you don’t have a softball pitching machine, your softball practice isn’t going to be very effective.
Softball is a very complicated game, and if you want to be good at it, you need to practice often. So, make sure you have the best softball pitching machine.
If you really care about building a reputation for yourself in softball, you should invest in a good softball pitching machine. Having your own softball pitching machine ensures you can practice alone and enhance your talents.
Since it became popular for the first time in 1887, softball has come a long way.
Companies these days are coming up with amazing ways to make the game more straightforward and enjoyable for players. The softball pitching machine is one such amazing innovation.
But during the last several years, the pitching machine industry has grown significantly. This has made it harder to choose the right one to buy.
However, I have 10 years of experience in softball, and now I will assist you in narrowing your search by examining the top seven softball pitching machines in this post.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Softball Pitching Machine
There are several things to consider when looking for a softball pitching machine, ranging from your skill level to types of pitches and energy and power options.
1. Type of Sport
As you already know, softball and baseball both sports use pitching machines but the way pitching machines are used in both sports are different.
As you already know, softball and baseball both sports use pitching machines, but the way pitching machines are used in both sports is different.
Most of the time, baseball pitchers can’t use softball pitching machines. The arm angle of softball pitching machines is unique from baseball pitching machines.
2. Types of Pitches
Basic pitching machines for baseball and softball typically concentrate on one pitch: the typical fastball. This is one of the easiest and simplest pitches in both baseball and softball.
Most pitching machine models let you change how fast a pitch goes, or you can move the machine closer to the batter for extra pitch speed.
Advanced softball players should practice fastballs, curveballs, sinkers, and sliders. More experienced players should practice drop balls and rise balls.
To make these kinds of pitches again, the machine will have to be more complicated, which will make them cost more. These complicated machines will also be able to go at different speeds.
So, if you are an experienced player, you should buy a more flexible pitching machine able to throw more modified pitches.
3. Durability and Lifespan
There is a say that the more expensive thing is the most durable. If you spend extra bucks on a pitching machine, you can expect it to be more durable and of better quality.
Softball pitching machines with higher prices also tend to have longer warranty claims that support fixing or replacing certain parts.
Softball pitching machines can last anywhere from two to ten years, depending on how well they are made and how much they cost.
4. Power Options
Of course, softball pitching machines require a power source to drive the motor. Pitching machines can be powered by either electricity or batteries.
Electrically powered corded machines never run out of juice, but they need a connection to electricity and, in the case of big fields, an extension cable.
Battery-powered pitching machines are easier to use and move around because they don’t need to be plugged in. But the battery life limits the amount of time you can practice.
5. Skill Level of the Player
If you are a beginner player or a parent thinking about buying a softball pitching machine for your child, you should start with a cheaper version until the skills develop. For more experienced players, a better pitching machine is a better investment.
If you’re a coach searching for a pitching machine for your team, you’ll want to get one that is strong and durable.
Are you serious about your hitting game? Are Pitching Machines Good For Batting Practice? A pitching machine can drastically change your hitting skill.
6. Curveball
As kids grow older, they will start to experience curveball-throwing pitchers. Pitchers throw curveballs, sliders, and perhaps even knuckleballs and screwballs as they improve.
When you reach higher levels, it is important to have a pitching machine where you can train hitting curves.
But what type of curves? When baseball players get good enough to need to start practicing hitting curves, pitchers usually throw more than a straight curve.
Curveball machines with one wheel and a “stop plate” only can throw side curves from the left or right. Due to their single motor, these curveball-throwing machines are typically the cheapest available.
They also have to be more precise when they throw curveballs. I have a pitching machine in min he Heater Pro that uses a wheel and can only toss a straight curve.
You should choose a pitching machine that can throw at least two variable speeds, exactly what a real pitcher can do. By adjusting the pace of one wheel compared to the other, you may throw sliders, screwballs, curveballs, fastballs, flyballs, and knuckleballs.
7. Cost
Now, we have come to one of the main criteria. The price of a machine may vary greatly depending on its functionality, fit and finish, and durability. If you look at the prices of the softball pitching machines available on the market, you will see that some are priced competitively, and others are crazy expensive.
Price shouldn’t be a deal-breaker, but it is still important. The reality is that even the most expensive softball pitching machine can be used by the average softball player.
In general, however, a high price indicates greater quality and more advanced technological features. However, these expensive machines are only sometimes made so that people of all ages and skill levels can use them.
8. Portability
Most fastpitch softball pitching machines are easy to move around. But some models are harder to move around than others.
If you want to take your softball pitching machine to the diamond or somewhere else often, it will help if it weighs less than 40 pounds. The folding legs make transport easier.
You’ll need a place to keep it when it’s not in use, and a decent pitching machine will often include a carrying case, so you don’t have to transport it in your car.
Different Types of Softball Pitching Machines
Now that you know what to look for in a softball pitching machine when purchasing one, you also need to know about the different pitching machines available in the market. Some of them are:
Wheeled Pitching Machines
These are the most common pitching machines and are usually found in home backyards or in colleges. Such machines are equipped with a motor propelling the rubber wheels, and a steel frame is attached to a tripod comprising speed and direction adjustment settings.
Armed–Pitching Machines
These machines are more suited for people in high–schools or early professionals starting out in this game. In such machines, you can practice softball and baseball pitching, which are well known for throwing straight balls at 25 to 85 mph. The only drawback these have is that they are not portable and cannot be moved easily.
Spring-loaded Pitching Machine
These machines are required to be operated manually, and there must be another person to pull the lever so that the spring can propel the ball toward the player. These machines are better for kids and starters as they don’t offer many pitching styles but are suitable for people who are starting out.
Compressed – Air Pitching Machines
These machines are the most portable ones you will find, and they work by pushing the air through the machine so that the force helps the spring to pitch the ball. However, the drawback is that they also require another person to push the button.
So, now that you know about the various types of pitching machines available, do consider your use–case before buying one.
Said to be highly portable, air-compressed pitching machines work by pushing air through the machine so that the force enables the spring to pitch the ball. A device like this will also require a second user to press the button.
Do you know how important a pitching mound is for baseball or softball pitching practice? The problem is that getting your hands on a permanent pitching mound is not easy. Maintaining a pitching mound takes a lot of time and money.
I have broken down How To Build A Round Portable Pitching Mound in an easy and efficient way.
Best Softball Pitching Machine In 2024
I have done market research and found these softball pitching machines as the best in each category. I have also mentioned some honorable mentions which I thought should make the list.
| Pitching Machine Model | Why It’s Chosen |
| Jugs BP1 Softball Only Pitching Machine | Overall Best |
| Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine | Best Budget |
| Atec M3X | Best For Professionals |
| PowerNet Launch F-Lite Softball Pitching Machine | Most Flexible |
| Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine | Best for Trainers |
| Heater Sports Softball Pitching Machine | Best For Beginners |
| JUGS PS50 Softball Pitching Machine | Most Accurate |
| Franklin Sports Baseball Pitching Machine | Best for Young Players |
Jugs BP1 Softball Pitching Machine- Overall Best
In case you didn’t already know, Jugs is the undisputed king of softball pitching machines.
The company has made a whole line of balling machines, but I think the best one is the Jugs BP1 Softball Pitching Machine.
The Jugs BP1 Softball Pitching Machine offers top-notch performance and is ideal for use at home in every way.
But the super fast speed was the first thing that caught my attention.
The Jugs BP1 Softball Only Pitching Machine will also be at the top of the list of the few pitching machines that can reach speeds of up to 70 mph.
But that doesn’t mean that only professional players can use the product.
The lowest setting on the Jugs BP1 Pitching Machine is slower than the lowest setting on many competing products.
So, kids who play softball can easily hit balls moving as slowly as 15 miles per hour.
Aside from that, the Jugs BP1 Softball Pitching Machine can turn 360°, has a dial to control the speed, and a digital display to show the speed.
Jugs has made two variants of the same machine, a version with a cart and another without because the actual pitching machine is heavy.
So, if you need help moving the pitching machine, get the one that comes with a cart.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Fast throwing speeds
- Easy to use
Cons
- High Price
- Not recommended for beginners
Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine- Best Budget
Made of sturdy steel and aluminum, the Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine is built to last. This softball pitching machine is an excellent bargain. If you want the most value for your money, choose this machine that costs less than $200.
Additionally, its lightweight and long-lasting design are really very user-friendly. The upgraded version of Louisville Slugger’s Blue Flame Pitching Machine can now throw longer and higher fly-balls thanks to its increased speed settings and enhanced arm attachment.
That’s not even the best part!
Louisville Sluggers once again amazes us with its new ideas by making the Blue Flame Pitching Machine work without a power source.
Instead, it is powered by a person’s foot, who presses down on a pedal.
When it comes to perfecting your swing, the Pitching Machine is an essential tool. It can simulate every pitch a player would face in a game by throwing various balls.
The Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine helps pitchers find their rhythm by delivering strikes at various speeds. Unlike pitching machines with heavy bodies, the Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine is structurally lightweight and easy to move.
There’s no way you can pass up this incredible bargain for just $200. The Louisville Black Flame is an alternative pitching machine to the more expensive Blue Flame that nonetheless has many notable characteristics. If you’re trying to decide between the Louisville Blue Flame vs Black Flame, this comparison should help.
You can change the speed anywhere between 18 to 45 miles per hour and choose between a flat and a downward-angled pitch. The Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine weighs less than 25 pounds, making it easily portable between fields or bases.
The Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine can deliver pinpoint strikes on grounders, fly balls, and even light-fly balls.
Pros
- No power needed
- Easy assembly
- Cheap
- Easy adjustment
- Use regular baseballs and softballs
Cons
- Has less stability when the ball is thrown
- Inconsistent and Inaccurate, sometimes
Atec M3X – Best For Professionals
Next up is the behemoth of a pitching machine that comes from Atec. It’s not hard to understand why this machine made my list, what with all its capabilities and the fact that it can be switched to toss baseballs.
This machine is very accurate when it comes to pitching, and you can also change how sensitive it is and its movement to suit your needs. The wide tripod does a good job of making the machine stable, which improves its accuracy.
It may lack the M3X’s size and power, but the M3 still has a beautiful fastball. Speeds can go up to 70 mph, which is great for more experienced players. It can throw drop balls, rise balls, curve balls, ground balls, and fastballs.
The Atec M3X has a very cool and helpful system called the Full Control Fungo System, which makes it easier to control and more accurate so that you can make the most of each training.
Despite its steep asking price, this pitching machine is vital if you are serious about raising your level of play.
Pros
- Can be turned into a baseball pitching machine
- Accurate
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- High Price
PowerNet Launch F-Lite Softball Pitching Machine- Most Flexible
The ultimate indoor and outdoor pitching machine for coaches and parents! Save your pitching arm with PowerNet Launch F-lite Softball Pitching Machine. Players can use this particular at-home pitching machine to practice softball and baseball.
The PowerNet Launch F-Lite Softball Pitching Machine is sturdy yet lightweight and delivers accurate throws to help the players practice.
In addition, it lets players test their batting skills by altering the speed at four different settings.
I found this feature a fantastic one – it helped me practice both in and out of my comfort zone.
Moreover, the PowerNet Launch F-Lite Softball Pitching Machine has two tripod base legs of different heights.
Therefore, you can interchange the legs to change the height for baseball and softball. Furthermore, the machine even launches pop flies to enhance muscle memory.
And the best part is that the package includes 12 practice balls, six baseballs, and six softballs.
So, say goodbye to running around the house searching for softballs to practice with your newly arrived pitching machine!
And if they disappear, as every other ball does, you can order more as PowerNet sells them separately.
Pros
- Four-speed levels
- Adjustable pitch heights
- Setup requires no tools
- includes a set of practice balls
Cons
- It’s just for PowerNet Launch F-Lite balls.
Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine- Best for Trainers
The Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine is the best way for players to practice both defensive and offensive hits.
The machine has a unique three-wheeled architecture that lets you keep track of the ball as it comes in, speeds up, and comes out.
So, the batter has to decide when to strike, which helps improve eye-hand coordination, just like a real pitcher.
Young softball players can certainly get an advantage from this function since it helps them develop eye-hand coordination.
Moreover, the three pace settings on the Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine suit players of various ages and skill levels.
What I liked the best about the Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine, though, was how easily it could be moved about.
You just have to lean the machine, take its legs out of its sockets, and move it with the help of its wheels.
Well, there’s more!
This amazing invention works with different different types of balls, like leather softballs, Wiffle balls, and others.
The Hack Attack Jr will cost you $2500, which is certainly expensive, but the softball pitching machine’s high price is reasonable when you look at all of its advanced features. Perfect for those in high school, college, or the pros (or anybody else who needs a fastball of 70 mph or more).
This boy can throw a softball at speeds of over 70 mph and a baseball at speeds of over 100 mph. That’s the fastest.
Pros
- Enables multiple pitches
- Easy to store
- Complete ball vision
- Terrific accuracy
- Instantaneous ball recovery time
- Extra-wide tripod legs provide safety
- No setup needed
- A conversion kit allows them to be used as baseball-throwing machines
Cons
- Premium pricing range
- Not good with synthetic balls
Heater Sports Softball Pitching Machine – Best For Beginners
This one from Heater Sports is ideal for both young and adult gamers. At the price of $500, you will get the fastest pitch of 50 mph.
With the Heater Softball Pitching Machine, you can learn batting and fielding fastballs, pop-ups, and grounders. The impressive 1/4 hp motor allows for slow or rapid pitching at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour, and if you tilt it, you will have more speed and different types of pitches.
The legs of the Heater Softball Pitching Machine are made of a tubular steel frame, and the wheel is entirely surrounded to protect both the batter and the machine. It comes with an A/C adapter, so you can connect it to any standard electric outlet.
You can attach it to any of the Heater backyard batting cages, which are available on their site, using the harness. The Heater Softball Pitching Machine, like all Heater products, comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty from the company.
If you’re an adult looking to get some practice in but aren’t quite ready for an elite pitching machine, this is the machine for you. It’s not only cheap, but it’s also quite user-friendly and packed with useful features. The 9-ball automated feeder, variable pitch height, and variable speed control are the most remarkable of them.
Even though setting up the machine for the first time and adjusting the feeder may take a bit more time, the machine works perfectly once you set it up. Most of the pitches are accurate, which is a lot better than I thought a cheap pitching machine would be able to do.
Pros
- Great for young softball players
- Changeable height and speed settings
- Compatible with Lite balls and other balls
- Includes a one-year warranty
- Includes a thirty-day money-back guarantee
- Entirely encased wheels for the most safety
Cons
- You can only feed one ball at a time
- Not good enough for professionals
- Some consumers complained about excessive noise
JUGS PS50 Softball Pitching Machine- Most Accurate
It’s tough to be exceptional when you can’t practice. Your fears, however, are long gone with the JUGS PS50 Softball Pitching Machine.
The JUGS Pitching Machine is an outstanding tool as well as a helpful ally for any professional player. What makes it different from all the other machines out there?
Excellence! Engineers didn’t just make this machine throw balls at different speeds; they also added new digital readings that tell you how fast each ball was thrown. This tells you more than just how far away that pitch was.
There will never be another bunt attempt or a base hit up the middle, thanks to its precise engineering.
This handy machine allows you to recreate the game’s feel without risking injury or exhausting your team. If you’re playing slow pitch baseball, it can throw regulation-sized balls at up to 50 mph while throwing arching tosses.
If you want to make it to the Hall of Fame, you just cannot ignore the JUGS PS50. You’ll be hitting home runs in no time with its high speed, deep, and precise throws out to 250 feet.
Easy transport choices were made with games on grass or playing fields in mind. The innovative “Always see the ball” delivery system guarantees that your throwers will never have to wonder where the ball went.
The 50-pound solid-steel construction and innovative technology make it possible to throw both fly balls and ground balls.
Pros
- Easy Set up
- Well built
- Constant strikes
- Easy to operate
- Patented “Always See the Ball” Delivery System
- JUGS offers a 1-year warranty
Cons
- Can’t throw 12-inch softballs
Franklin Sports Baseball Pitching Machine- Best for Young Players
The Franklin Sports Softball Pitching Machine is a great tool for young softball players that won’t break the bank. This smart little baseball toy is really basic, easy, and simple to set up.
For young baseball lovers who want a fun method to practice both catching and hitting in one device, the Franklin Sports Softball Pitching Machine is fantastic. Your Kids can practice their abilities at low or high pitches, according to the setting.
Batters even experiment with a variety of balls, including rapid pitch and slow toss. This portable device has you covered for everything.
Get your Franklin Sports Softball Pitching Machine today and stop playing by yourself. The Franklin Sports Softball Pitching Machine is popular with both youngsters and adults.
Pros
- Easy to change the unit’s height
- It comes with six aero strike balls but can hold up to nine.
- Built-in speed control lets you speed up or slow down to 10, 15, or 20 miles per hour.
- Includes a 3-angle adjustment that makes it easier to meet each pitching needs
- Includes a case that makes it easy to store.
Cons
- Plastic balls are quickly destroyed
- When reloading, balls sometimes get stuck.
- Most pitches are random and can’t be changed.
- The length of the cord may be too short
In case plastic balls get damaged in the pitching machine, Muhl balls are a great alternative. It can be used in a pitching machine and also it will improve your throwing.
Some Honorable Mentions
Heater Sports Power Alley Softball Pitching Machine
This home pitching machine has the lowest price tag and is ideal for young players who throw eleven-inch softballs.
The Heater Sports Power Alley Softball Pitching Machine also lets players throw different pitches, like fastballs, ground balls, and pop-flies.
The pace also suits young softball players.
Moreover, it has many speed choices so that the players may practice softball at varying speeds in real-world situations.
I really like that you can change the height of the machine. Changing the height makes a big difference in how the pitches curve.
Other than that, this adaptable design has no special power supply requirements.
Charging it is very simple because a standard ten-volt outlet would do.
Pros
- Perfect for young softball players
- Changeable height and speed settings
- Compatible with Lite balls and other balls
- Includes a one-year warranty.
- Includes a money-back guarantee for 30 days
- Completely encased wheels for the most safety
Cons
- You must feed the balls one at a time.
- Not good enough for professionals
- Some customers said there was too much noise.
Jugs Lite-Flite Softball/Baseball Pitching Machine
The Jugs Lite-Flite Softball Pitching Machine is another product from the Jugs family that I really enjoyed.
It has not only accurate pitches but also great speed and a safe way to play.
Hitters can also practice five different pitches with the Jugs Lite-Flite Softball Pitching Machine.
So, this is the best machine to buy if you want to practice throwing a fastball, curveball, slider, or left- or right-handed pitch.
The Jugs BP1 Softball Pitching Machine, like the Jugs Lite-Flite, rotates 360 degrees to accommodate pop flies, grounders, and flyouts.
And the best thing! You can adjust the swivel base by hand or with the Switch and Play dials.
Apart from that, the Jugs Lite-Flite Softball Pitching Machine is powered by a Jugs Rechargeable Battery Pack.
If you charge the battery once, your pitching machine will work for three hours in a row.
And it only takes four hours to charge, which is crazy.
Pros
- Nearly professional-quality pitches
- Chargeable battery system
- Durable and easy to carry
- Allows five different pitches
Cons
- Too fast for kids under eight years
- The batteries must be purchased separately
- Complies only with Lite-Flite or Bulldog Polyballs
Iron Mike MP-6
If money and space are not your problems and portability isn’t a necessity, the MP-6 from Iron Mike is unrivaled.
The overhand throw machines they produce are the stables of the machine pitching industry. They can store thousands of balls and are very durable. The machines need to be taken care of, but the parts are cheap, and the service is excellent.
One of the things I like the most about the Mike Arm is that it throws overhand. But they are not cheap at all and are as easy to move as a large boulder. If you have the space, the money, and the need, I really think you should buy it.
Pros
- Built to Last
- Huge Hopper
- Consistent/High Speeds
Cons
- Only Fastballs
- Not Portable
- Expensive
BSN Sports Bulldog Baseball & Softball Pitching Machine
If you’re in the market for a pitching machine but don’t want to break the bank, the BSN Sports Bulldog pitching machine is your best choice. It’s a great pick for pitchers who want to work on their breaking pitches or require a little extra effort.
Despite its short range, this machine can handle pitches with speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. This machine is great for both infield and outfield baseball drills. Also, it is very strong and will last a long time.
It may not be as robust as some of the other machines on my list, but its 60 mph peak speed and make a wide range of pitches make it a solid choice. This will help young players refine their skills.
Great news for young athletes since this machine is portable and easy to move to multiple places for practice. The BSN Sports Bulldog is your affordable and reliable training partner.
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not for experienced players
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are Pitching Machines Worth It?
A baseball pitching machine can help a young player get better at the plate in a big way. On top of that, the hitter may practice their swing with consistent deliveries and fine-tune their stance or batting stance.
If you are a player who struggles to consistently strike the ball, now is a wonderful time to improve your swing.
2. What Is a Good RPM for a Softball Pitcher?
Pitchers at the professional and Olympic levels often pitch curveballs, screwballs, and baseball pitches with spin rates of 25 RPS or more. Most of the time, their drop balls have less spin than their curveballs.
Some pitchers can spin their rise balls at a rate of 30 revolutions per second. A breaking ball has to have at least 19 RPS to be effective.
3. Can a Pitching Machine Throw Different Pitches?
These pitching machines can throw various types of pitches, like fastballs and curveballs. They can also do training drills, like throwing ground balls, line drives, and pop fly balls. Many pitching machines with wheels have the option to feed balls automatically, so you can practice hitting by yourself.
4. Is It Harder to Hit off a Pitching Machine?
Since most pitching machines don’t have much or any pre-release action, it can be hard for the batter to get going, which can throw off their whole swing pattern. This is especially hard for baseball and softball batters who are just starting to learn how to move their bats this way.
5. What Should I Look For in a Pitching Machine?
You should look for a pitching machine that has two wheels, two motors, and a wide range of pitch speeds (ideally more than 90 mph). If you need to move it, think about how heavy it is and how easy it is to move. Most machines can throw left, to the right fastballs, curveballs, and sliders.
6. What is the difference between wheel pitching machines and mechanical pitching machines?
Wheel pitching machines have much more power and a wider range of pitches than mechanical pitching machines. They can be used in both the infield and outfield. Softball pitching machines made of metal are light and easy to move without much work. They can’t compete with the power of wheel-pitching machines, however.
One-, two-, and three-wheel pitching machines have different pitch dynamics and skill levels. One-wheel pitching machines are usually very cheap, easy to move around, and light. Two-wheel pitching machines are also portable, but they are more useful and cost more.
Three-wheel or multi-wheeled machines provide baseball and softball pitches and infield and outfield workouts.
Wrapping Up
Pitching machines are an excellent tool for improving your game. Now that you know what to look for, you can choose the best softball pitching machine.
You can put your trust in me when this softball throwing machine is ideal in every way. I have compiled the best softball pitching machines available on the market so I can help you make your purchase choice better.
So, stop waiting for someone to throw you balls before you start practicing. Rather, get a pitching machine and practice your hitting abilities wherever and whenever you want!
Whether you’re competing in tournaments or simply practicing at home, the pitching machine is an excellent method to keep your game sharp. I cannot wait to see you play on the biggest stage.
Please let me know if any of my advice helps you. I try to strengthen your softball and baseball games by giving advice and suggesting different products. I hope this will help you be the player you dream of.
Hello everyone. My name is Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player. I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego.
I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit.