Choosing the proper pitching machine is a matter of determining current and future needs, evaluating the investment and the value of the investment over the machine's lifetime, and then, purchasing as much pitching machine as possible.

To this end, factors to consider include:

1.Single-Wheel or Two-Wheeled Machine

• Most people want a consistent strike in the "batting cage" and will practice hitting breaking pitches live on the field in limited batting practice; others, however, want breaking pitches in the "cage" because their batting practice pitchers can't throw a sufficient number of breaking pitches for strikes
  • A single-wheel machine throws a "straight" ball.
  • A two-wheeled machine can throw fastballs, curves, sliders and screwballs.

2. Consumer Level or Commercial Level Construction

• Weight, durability, portability, and power source requirements may determine the proper pitching machine.
  • Consumer Level Machines are typically lighter (often made of high-impact plastic) and operate on 12v power sources. However, the extreme torque that pitching places on the machine can damage the machine as the machine ages gracefully.
  • Commercial Level Machines are heavy, not as portable and often need a 110v power source. These machine, however, are virtually indestructible. Replacement wheels are needed every 2nd or 3rd season and if ever needed, a replacement control box and motors are available. With reasonable care, these machine can last a lifetime.

3. Speed and Ball Options

• Choose a machine that throws the kind of ball you require at speeds that are sufficient for today, as well as for the future when the batter's skill develop,

AXIOM SPORTS provides a full array of pitching machines, from the consumer level poly ball machine, The Mound Monster, to the two-wheeled commercial level Cobra III . The Mound Monster is an excellent entry-level machine, but can also serve at the high school level as an indoor machine in the gymnasium when the weather prevents outdoor workouts. Also, you can adjust the head to simulate either left or right-handed pitching, making for a truly versatile, real game experience.

Backyard or Small Group

• The two-wheeled machine allows for breaking pitches as well as fastballs allowing a player to prepare for tryouts and to improve their game in their own backyard cage.
• The machine suitable to this level of need is the Pitch Master .

Youth League (Baseball and Softball)

• Pitching machines are popular in youth leagues because they deliver safe, reliable pitches. This helps young players develop skills with consistency and without fear of being hit by an errant pitch.
• A single-motor machine capable of pitching at 50 mph or more is usually sufficient.
• Choose a complete machine that is either portable or compatible with a movable cart for transport.
• Look for a lightweight model that is easy to set up, and offers the features you will need in a typical practice.
• The machine suitable to this level of need is the Mound Monster.

High School, Collegiate, and Professional (Baseball & Softball)

• At this level, pitching machines should deliver fast pitches and a variety of pitch types.
  Two-wheel, dual-motor machines are most appropriate.
• Choose a machine with many pitching options (left, right, curve, fastballs, etc.) and a maximum speed of 75 mph or more.
• Machines suitable for this category are the Cobra III (Baseball and Softball).

Softball (All Levels)

• A softball pitching machine should be built to simulate underhand throws.
• Look for a machine that will accommodate fastpitch and slowpitch play, depending on your skill level.
• Some machines are convertible, using a differently shaped chute for baseball and softball.
• Machine for this category is the Cobra III.
• The Cobra 2, in addition to slow-pitch and fast-pitch capabilities is also capable of risers and drops.