Finally decided to upgrade from my trusty straight key and looking at getting my first iambic paddle. I've narrowed it down to the CW Morse 3D printed paddle ($45) and the BaMaKey TP3 (~$190). Both seem well regarded for portable use.

The CW Morse is obviously much more budget-friendly, but I'm wondering if the TP3 is worth the extra investment. The CW Morse $45 3D-Printed Pocket Paddle is remarkably robust and can be tossed in a backpack without covers, and it's easily adjustable in the field. The BaMaKeY TP-III is another solid paddle that's not inexpensive, but worth the purchase.

Anyone have hands-on experience with both? I mainly do POTA activations and some ragchewing on 20m. Speed isn't critical yet - I'm comfortable around 15-18 WPM.

I've been using the CW Morse 3D paddle for about a year now and it's been fantastic for POTA. The settings are a bit crude with no fine threaded screw adjustments and it can be noisy, but for the price point it's hard to beat. At your speed, the adjustment precision of the TP3 probably isn't necessary yet.

Just got my first paddle last month (went with the TP3) and absolutely love it! When paired with the Senrog Bench Block, it becomes a stable tabletop key that won't move as you operate. Maybe overkill for a beginner, but I figured buy once, cry once. The build quality is incredible.

The classic N0SA has long been my favorite, but I do love my AME Ultra Porta Paddle. Just picked up the Modern Morse Nameless and time will tell. For POTA work, either of your choices will serve you well. The 3D paddle will get you going immediately without breaking the bank, and you can always upgrade later if you catch the paddle bug!