Arm Style Pitching Machines vs Wheel Style Pitching Machines

Arm Style vs Wheel Pitching Machines

Torn between purchasing an Arm style pitching machine and a wheel pitching machine? Customers ask us what the differences are between these pitching machines, so we thought we'd go over it here in this article. Hope it helps! 

Wheel Pitching Machines vs. Arm Style Pitching Machines

An important concept to understand when purchasing a baseball pitching machine is understanding the difference between a wheel and an arm-style pitching machine. Customers ask us about this all the time, and we want to make sure the differences are clear to you.

Arm-style pitching machines use a catapult-like design to throw the baseball to the batter. Because of this simple design, arm pitching machines can throw consistent fastballs right down the line but cannot throw any other variation of pitches, like breaking balls. 

However, most arm style machines come with large hoppers that can hold hundreds of baseballs.

On the other hand, wheel-pitching machines use a wheel to project the ball forward. When using multiple wheels, you can get a lot of power and spin on the ball, allowing you to throw curveballs, sliders, etc. 

Click here to better understand how pitching machines work

arm style vs wheel pitching machines

 

Pros and Cons of Arm-Style Pitching Machines

Pros:

  • Throw consistent strikes 
  • Large hoppers can hold hundreds of baseballs
  • Very durable and long-lasting pitching machines

Cons: 

  • Pitching machines are extremely heavy and not portable 
  • High price point
  • Cannot throw curveballs or sliders 
  • Best suited for batting cages

Pros and Cons of Wheel Pitching Machines

Pros:

  • Lightweight and portable 
  • Price points vary from low to high, making it easy to meet your budget
  • Many different models are available for different age levels
  • Can throw breaking balls

Cons:

  • Ball Feeders purchased separately


 Bottom Line

The chances are a wheel pitching machine is most likely the best option for you. There are way more makes and models of wheel pitching machines out there, making it easy for customers to find the right one for them and their budget. Plus, these machines are more versatile, more portable, and more affordable overall. 

If you're set on an Iron Mike MP 6, just don't plan on moving it around; it weighs hundreds of pounds. If you're starting a batting cage business, then an arm-style pitching machine is for you. 

KEVIN M. KING

Founder / Senior Contributor

Kevin King, founder of Anytime Baseball Supply and senior contributor of the Daily Diamond blog, started the company 7 years ago. He loves the Los Angeles Dodgers, playing the occasional pick up baseball game, skateboarding and his dog Panzer. Despite his busy schedule, he still finds time to contribute to the blog.

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