Finding the best softball pitching machines for your practice plan can be tricky. Especially when there are too many models on the market, with tons of different features.
Don’t worry! In this article, we’ll break down all the best options out there for you, so you can choose for yourself the best pitching machine for your softball practice.
Whether fastpitch or slowpitch, youth or college, men or women, you’ll find your best softball pitching machine here.
Let’s begin.
Our Method to Evaluate Softball Pitching Machines
It’s the fact that softball pitching machines aren’t just for professionals, but for anyone who wants to improve their game. These machines make practicing more accessible and can be a valuable long-term investment.
To help you find the right one, we’ve put in countless hours of testing in real-world scenarios and ranked the results below. You don’t have to try every pitching machine before you buy – we’ve got you covered with the top options for your needs and budget.
Here are what we cover for each of the pitching machines:
- Type of pitching machine
- Pitching speed
- Features
- Portability
- Power source
- Ball feeder capacity
- The durability of the material
- Our verdict
Without further ados, let’s take a look at the best softball pitching machines on the market right now.
Top 7 Best Softball Pitching Machines on the Market
To save you time, here is a summary of our top picks:
(Prime day deals are coming, guys and gals!)
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | HIGHLIGHTS | PRICING |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Jugs Lite-Flite Machine |
|  SEE ON AMAZON |
 | Louisville Slugger Blue Flame |
| CHECK PRICE |
 | Heater Sports Softball Pitching Machine with 9 Ball Automatic Feeder |
| CHECK PRICE |
 | Jugs BP1 Softball Only Pitching Machine |
| CHECK PRICE |
 | PowerNet Launch F-lite Softball Machine |
| SEE ON AMAZON |
 | Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine |
| MORE DETAILS |
 | Jugs MVP Combo Pitching Machine |
| MORE DETAILS |
1. Jugs Lite-Flite – Best Softball Pitching Machine for Everyone
The Jugs Lite-Flite (with 12 Lite-Flite Softballs) is easily one of the best softball pitching machines overall for beginners and young players.
Jugs Sport is a well-known company for manufacturing baseball and softball training equipment. They offer high-quality softball machines at various price ranges that are being used by professional players and coaches.
The Jugs Lite-Flite Machine is an automatic, wheel-type pitching machine. It employs a spinning wheel mechanism to propel lightweight softballs. This machine is loved for its reliability, sturdyness, and durability.
| Jugs Lite-Flite Machine - Best Overall | |
|---|---|
| Specifications
SEE ON AMAZON |
The machine offers a wide range of speeds suitable for youth players, up to 85 miles per hour. Also, it uses the Jugs Lite-Flite Softballs balls, which are notably softer than standard softballs, making them safer for practice for kid players while still providing realistic flight.
You can change the speed of the pitch, and also tilt the pitching head for various curve balls. Once you set the position and tighten the knobs, the pitches are very consistent.
The machine is relatively lightweight and can be easily transported to different practice locations, including the field or backyard. This portability enhances its convenience for solo practice. Just keep in mind that it runs on power, either a 110VAC power supply or a rechargeable battery pack (which are also sold by Jugs, by the way).
Pros
- Solid, sturdy, and durable construction
- Wide range of speed, up to 85 MPH
- Compact and semi-lightweight, suitable for your backyard
- Adjustable pitch height, speed, and angle for different pitches
- Jugs Flite Softball balls are notably softer than standard softballs, making them safer for young players from 8u or little leagues
- Dual sport: can be used for softballs and baseballs
Cons
- Hard to assemble at first
- Does not use other brand balls
- Does not use standard softballs
- Price is not cheap (but not too expensive either)
Overall, the Jugs Lite-Flite Machine is undoubtedly the best pitching machine for youth players and beginners for its versatility, portability, and adjustability. It’s ideal for training your kids in your backyard, or even for solo players. Although the price is not the cheapest, it’s not very expensive considering what it offers. If you are serious about honing your (or your kids’) batting skills, this is the best bang for your buck.
2. Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine – Best for Budget
For most average consumers, the Louisville Slugger Blue Flame is our top choice for youth softball and beginners.
| Louisville Slugger Blue Flame – Best Pitching Machine for Practice | |
|---|---|
| Specifications
SEE ON AMAZON |
The Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine is a manual, non-electric softball pitching machine that is designed to be portable and easy to use. It uses a spring-loaded mechanism to launch softballs and is capable of throwing them at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.
The machine is made from durable steel and aluminum materials, which make it resistant to wear and tear over time. The spring-loaded mechanism is also designed to be long-lasting, and the tripod stand is made from sturdy materials that can withstand heavy use.
One of the main features of the Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine is its portability. The machine is designed to be lightweight and easy to transport, with a compact design that can be easily disassembled for cleaning and maintenance. The tripod stand can also be folded down for storage and transportation.
The machine has an adjustable pitch height and can throw grounders as well as pop-ups. However, it does not come with a ball feeder and must be loaded manually before each use.
Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and portable design
- Durable steel and aluminum construction
- Spring-loaded mechanism is long-lasting
- Adjustable pitch height and ability to throw grounders and pop-ups
- Does not require an external power source
- Easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance
- Reasonable price. You get the most bang for your buck.
Reasons to Avoid
- Ball feeder must be loaded manually before each use
- Maximum pitching speed of 60 miles per hour may not be sufficient for advanced players
- Manual operation requires some practice to get the hang of using it effectively
- May not be suitable for use in all weather conditions (e.g. windy or rainy conditions)
To sum up, the Louisville Slugger Blue Flame scores portability, durability, and ease of use. Downsides include it takes some practice to get the hang of using it effectively and might not be suitable for advanced players.
Nevertheless, I still believe Louisville Slugger Blue Flame is the best softball pitcher for most youth players with their parents or coaches for its ease of use and affordable price.
Overall score:
3. Heater Sports Softball Pitching Machine
The Heater Sports Softball Pitching Machine with 9 Ball Automatic Feeder is the best budget-friendly automatic pitching machine for beginners and amateur softball players.
| Heater Sports Softball Pitching Machine - Best Budget Automatic for all players | |
|---|---|
| Specifications
SEE ON AMAZON |
Its main features include an automatic ball feeder capable of holding up to 9 softballs at a time, allowing for uninterrupted solo practice sessions. The machine offers adjustable pitching speed settings, typically ranging from 15 to 50 miles per hour, catering to a wide range of skill levels.
Constructed with durable materials, including steel and quality components, this pitching machine is built to withstand extended use and provide long-term durability.
The pitching speed of the Heater Sports Softball Pitching Machine is adjustable, making it suitable for beginners and advanced players alike. The slower speeds are ideal for novices learning to hit, while higher speeds challenge more experienced players.
Pros
- Automatic ball feeder is ideal for solo players
- Adjustable speed up to 50 MPH
- Durable materials
- Lightweight and portable
- Affordable price for an automatic machine
Cons
- Ball feeder capacity is limited to 9 balls
- May not offer pinpoint accuracy (we can’t ask more at this price point though)
- Initial setup might be challenging
The power source for this machine is typically electricity, requiring it to be plugged into an outlet for operation.
Portability is a notable feature, with a lightweight and compact design that facilitates easy transport to the field or practice area. This portability makes it suitable for players looking to practice in various locations.
The tradeoff? The ball feeder capacity is limited to 9 softballs at a time, which can be a bit low for extended practice sessions without frequent reloading. But we can’t ask for more as it’s a very budget-friendly automatic machine yet very compact & lightweight.
Overall, the Heater Sports Softball Pitching Machine is one of the most loved pitching machines for softball players of all ages & leagues.
4. Jugs BP1 Softball Only – The Best Quality Softball Pitching Machine
For people who are serious about practicing softball, the Jugs BP1 Pitching Machine for Softball is top-notch in quality.
Just to be clear, it’s quite expensive compared to some budget options. However, if you see the values in it, you’ll know why.
| Jugs BP1 Softball Only Pitching Machine - Best Quality & Endurance | |
|---|---|
| Specifications
SEE ON AMAZON |
The Jugs BP1 has three versions: Combo Softball and Baseball, Baseball Only, and Softball Only. They are all automatic and serve different purposes.
The softball-only version is specifically designed for practicing softball in fastpitch game-like situations. This machine is my favorite pitching machine as it provides exceptional performance and durability.
Jugs equipment is renowned for its durability, and the BP1 is no exception. I would recommend the Jugs BP1 to anyone who needs to use the pitching machine every day. That’s right, it’s frickin’ durable and reliable over time, even with frequent use.
So, if you are a coach, or you are serious about practicing softball for years, you should definitely consider the Jugs BP1.
Pros
- Can do high-speed pitches for fastpitch softball
- Accurate & consistent in pitching
- Can simulate game-like pitches
- SUPER durable. Can last years under intensive usage
Cons
- Ball feeder must be loaded manually before each use
- Maximum pitching speed of 60 miles per hour may not be sufficient for advanced players
- Manual operation requires some practice to get the hang of using it effectively
- May not be suitable for use in all weather conditions (e.g. windy or rainy conditions)
Not only that, accuracy & consistency in making real-game pitches are what make people love the BP1.
My friend once said:
“You get what you pay for in pitching machines.”
This is totally true with the Jugs BP1 for Softball. You do get what you pay for as it’s worth every penny.
5. PowerNet Launch F-lite – Best FASTPITCH Softball Pitching Machine for Batters
The PowerNet Launch F-lite Softball Pitching Machine is a wheel type that is chosen by many fast-pitch batters.
Its main features include a versatile speed range, simulating pitching speeds from 40 to 90 miles per hour at a distance of 25 feet, with four adjustable speed settings. It offers adaptability for both baseball and softball with interchangeable chutes and tripod base legs.
| PowerNet Launch F-lite - Best for Fast-pitch | |
|---|---|
| Specifications
SEE ON AMAZON |
This machine’s consistency in delivering strikes makes it ideal for batting practice, and it also extends its utility for fielding drills by launching pop flies and line drives.
Additionally, the package includes 12 practice balls, comprising 6 baseballs and 6 softballs. These practice balls are constructed from ultra-light and dimpled plastic for improved accuracy and durability.
One thing I don’t like is that the machine is designed for use with PowerNet Launch F-lite Baseballs and Launch F-lite Softballs ONLY. Using other brands of balls will void the product warranty. Also, I saw some people having trouble starting the machine in cold weather.
Pros
- Variable pitching speed from 40 – 90 MPH
- Can be used for both softball and baseball
- Throws consistent ball for striking and fielding practice
- 12 FREE balls included in the package (6 baseballs and 6 softballs)
Cons
- Does not operate with other brand softballs, which may void the warranty
- May not be very durable under intensive usage
- Has trouble working in cold weather (40 degrees F or below)
For added assurance, the machine comes with a one-year limited warranty, covering manufacturer defects and bolstering confidence in its build quality and reliability.
With that being said, the PowerNet Launch F-lite is still one of the popular choices for faspitch softball and many batters for its varied pitching speeds, versatility, consistency, and free balls are included in the box.
6. JUNIOR Hack Attack – The Best Softball Pitching Machine for Professional
The Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine by Sports Attack is a high-quality automatic pitching machine that is specifically designed for professional softball players.
| Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine - Best Pitching Machine for Solo Trainings | |
|---|---|
 | Specifications
SEE ON AMAZON |
Note: This JUNIOR Hack Attack is version 2 of the Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine, which is the chunkier version, and has even better pitching speed, with a higher price.
Its main features include the ability to throw fastballs, risers, drop balls, and screwballs, as well as adjustable speed settings from 30-60 mph. The machine also includes an automatic ball feeder with a capacity of up to 150 balls, making it ideal for both team and solo training sessions.
The machine is constructed with durable steel and features a powder-coated finish, ensuring its longevity and resistance to wear and tear. Sports Attack also offers a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty on the machine.
Sportattacks claims that the 3-wheel mechanism has unparalleled advantages against 2-wheel, 1-wheel, and arm machines.
Note that, the machine is powered by electricity and must be connected to an electrical outlet or generator to function properly.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable design
- Durable steel and aluminum construction
- Spring-loaded mechanism is long-lasting
- Adjustable pitch height and ability to throw grounders and pop-ups
- Does not require an external power source
- Easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance.
Cons
- Ball feeder must be loaded manually before each use
- Maximum pitching speed of 60 miles per hour may not be sufficient for advanced players
- Manual operation requires some practice to get the hang of using it effectively
- May not be suitable for use in all weather conditions (e.g. windy or rainy conditions)
Overall, the Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine is an excellent choice for serious softball players who are looking for a high-quality, durable, and versatile pitching machine. Its ability to throw a wide range of pitches at adjustable speeds and its automatic ball feeder with high capacity make it a valuable tool for players looking to improve their skills and performance.
The machine’s lightweight and portable design also makes it easy to transport to different locations for practice and training. However, the machine’s high price point and complexity may be prohibitive for some amateur users.
That being said, the Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine is still one of the best options for the professional softball scene.
7. Jugs MVP Combo Pitching Machine
The Jugs MVP Combo Pitching Machine is a suitable option for youth leagues, college softball, and especially coaches.
| Jugs MVP Combo Pitching Machine for Softball & Baseball - Best for Dual Sport | |
|---|---|
| Specifications
SEE ON AMAZON |
One of the most interesting features of the Jugs MVP Combo is that it can throw both softball and baseball, at a fairly high speed, with impressive accuracy.
Jugs is known for producing pitching machines that deliver consistent and accurate pitches. The MVP Combo continues this tradition, ensuring that players can hone their skills against reliable pitch deliveries.
The machine allows for adjustments in pitch angles, helping players practice against different types of pitches, including fastballs, curveballs, and sliders. This adaptability is essential for preparing players to face various pitching styles in real games.
Jugs equipment is renowned for its durability and longevity. The MVP Combo is constructed with high-quality materials, making it capable of withstanding the demands of regular use in practice sessions.
Pros
- You can play both softball and baseball
- Adjustable Speed: It offers a wide range of adjustable pitching speeds, accommodating players of various skill levels, including youth and advanced players.
- Consistency: Jugs machines are known for their reliability and consistent pitch delivery, allowing players to refine their hitting skills effectively.
- Durability: Jugs equipment is renowned for its durability and longevity, ensuring a long-lasting investment for teams and players.
Cons
- Price is high
- It requires an electrical power source (110V), limiting its use in areas without access to power.
- It may require regular maintenance and occasional part replacement over time.
- Setting up and adjusting the machine may require some effort and time
While not as compact as some smaller models, the machine is designed to be portable, allowing teams to transport it to different practice locations, including the field or training facilities.
Overall, Jugs MVP Combo is a promising option if you are a coach, or your team is playing youth and college leagues of softball for its robustness, versatility, and capability.
How to Choose The Best Softball Pitching Machine?
Most average consumers jump straight into pitching machine specifications without a clue about WHAT THEY REALLY NEED.
If you know exactly what you need, you can skip this part.
But if you want to make an informed decision, we will guide you through what specs you should care about when choosing the right softball pitching machine, right below.
Type of pitching machine
There are two types of softball pitching machines: wheel-based machines and arm-based machines.
Wheel-based machines use two spinning wheels to shoot out the ball while arm-based machines have a robotic arm that mimics a pitcher’s arm motion.
Wheel-based machines
Pros
- Generally more affordable than arm-based machines.
- Can offer a wider range of speeds, making them suitable for players at different skill levels.
- Easier to operate and maintain since they have fewer moving parts.
- They are more accurate and consistent in their delivery, making them ideal for hitting drills.
Cons
- Limited variety of pitches compared to arm-based machines.
- Can produce more wear and tear on balls than arm-based machines.
- May require frequent adjustments to ensure that the wheels are delivering pitches consistently.
Arm-based machines
Pros
- Can simulate a more realistic pitching motion since they have a robotic arm that mimics the motion of a human pitcher.
- Can deliver a wider variety of pitches, including breaking balls and changeups.
- Less wear and tear on balls compared to wheel-based machines.
- Can throw pitches at different release points, simulating pitches from various angles.
Cons
- Generally more expensive than wheel-based machines.
- Heavier and more difficult to move around.
- Requires more maintenance due to the complexity of the arm mechanism.
- Maybe less consistent in their delivery, especially at lower speeds.
Believe me, not everyone needs arm-based machines. If you have to bring the pitching machines to the field and back every day, you’d better go with a wheel-based one for its portability.
Speed range
Consider the speed range of the machine, as different models have different maximum and minimum speeds. Ensure that the machine can deliver a speed range that matches your skill level and training goals.
For younger players, such as those in youth leagues, the pitching machine speeds typically range from 30 to 50 miles per hour (mph). As players get older and move into higher levels of competition, such as high school or college, the pitching machine speeds can range from 50 to 70 mph or higher.
At the professional level, the pitching machine speeds can vary greatly depending on the league and level of competition. In the National Pro Fastpitch League, for example, the pitching speeds range from 60 to 70 mph, while in the National Softball Association’s fastpitch league, the speeds can range from 70 to 80 mph. This can be applied to both men’s and women’s leagues.
Ultimately, the speed range of a softball pitching machine should be chosen based on the skill level and needs of the individual player or team, as well as any league regulations that must be followed.
Pitch variation
If your budget allows, look for a machine that can deliver different types of pitches, such as fastballs, curveballs, sliders, and changeups. Having a machine that can deliver a variety of pitches will help you develop a more comprehensive skill set.
However, it’s not strictly necessary to choose machines with various pitching speeds. If you know what division you are in, your ability, and your targets, then I’ll help you choose the pitching machine with JUST THE RIGHT SPEED.
Having said that, pitching speed isn’t the only factor for your practice plan.
For example, with the same ball pitch at 70 MPH, your distance can affect how much time you have to react to the ball:
Take a look at the pitching machine speeds chart below for reference:
| Machine Speed (MPH) | Distance between Pitching Machine and Home Plate | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 ft | 35 ft | 38 ft | 40 ft | 43 ft | |
| 30 | 56 | 49 | 45 | 42 | 38 |
| 35 | 65 | 57 | 52 | 49 | 44 |
| 40 | 74 | 65 | 59 | 55 | 50 |
| 45 | 84 | 73 | 67 | 62 | 56 |
| 50 | 93 | 81 | 74 | 69 | 63 |
| 55 | 102 | 89 | 81 | 75 | 68 |
| 60 | 112 | 98 | 89 | 82 | 75 |
| 65 | 121 | 106 | 96 | 89 | 81 |
| 70 | 130 | 114 | 103 | 95 | 86 |
| 75 | 140 | 122 | 111 | 102 | 93 |
Portability
Consider how easy the machine is to move around. If you plan on transporting it to different locations, choose a machine that is lightweight and easy to carry.
Size and weight
Check the dimensions and weight of the machine to ensure that it will fit in your training area and is easy to move around.
Power source
Pitching machines can be powered by electricity or batteries. Determine which power source is more convenient for your training setup.
Ball feeder capacity
Check the capacity of the ball feeder, as some machines can hold more balls than others. A higher capacity means less time spent refilling the machine and more time spent practicing.
Noise level
Consider the noise level of the machine, especially if you plan on using it indoors or in a residential area.
Durability
Look for a machine that is made of durable materials and can withstand regular use. Nevertheless, keep in mind that pitching machines made with high-durable materials tend to cost more.
Your Budget
Last but not least, it’s important to decide how much money you’re comfortable spending for a pitching machine.
The cost of a machine can be high because of the features it has, how it’s made, and how long it lasts. Keep in mind that you might not need all the latest and most complicated features.
A quick example, a machine that can deliver a wide range of pitching speeds should have a higher price than the ones with a three-step speed system.
However, not everyone needs a very flexible speed range. If you have a particular drill for a certain pitching speed of 40 MPH, then there is no problem using the cheaper options to save some bucks.
So, you need to consider your budget and what features you need to make sure you’re getting good value for your money.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions for first-time buying softball pitching machines.
Are cheap softball machines bad? Should I buy cheap softball machines?
Not really. Although cheap machines have fewer features than expensive ones, they have their own strengths (such as portability, lightweight, and not requiring power). For people who have just started with softball, I actually recommend cheaper options. They might serve you just well.
Are automatic softball machines worth the extra money?
It depends. Automatic machines can make it easier to practice alone at high speed and intensity. They are best for professional practice and solo batters.
What softball machine should I buy?
Personally, I recommend the Jugs Lite-Flite Machine and the Louisville Slugger Blue Flame as they have the best Price/Performance ratio for beginners.
Conclusion
Choosing the first softball pitching machine can be tricky, but I hope that you can make an informed decision after reading this post.
If you have any questions, feel free to drop me a DM at [email protected], I’m happy to be a part of your softball journey.
Cheers!
Norman Dang is a diehard softball fan with full of energy and enthusiasm. He has over ten years of experience in playing softball and coaching softball for kids. He shares his expertise on the SoftballTriple blog.