Bowling Ball Speed Chart by Skill Level
Reference chart of bowling ball speeds by skill level — from beginner to professional. Includes mph ranges, player types, and how to measure your own speed.
Use this bowling ball speed chart to see where you stand. Speeds are measured at the pins (average lane speed). Your release speed is roughly 2–3 mph higher.
Measure your speed with our Bowling Ball Speed Calculator.
Bowling Ball Speed Chart
| Speed at Pins (mph) | Speed at Pins (km/h) | Player Level | Typical Bowler |
|---|---|---|---|
| < 10 | < 16 | Very slow / beginner | New bowlers, youth |
| 10–13 | 16–21 | Below average | Developing technique |
| 14–17 | 23–27 | Average recreational | Casual league, open play |
| 18–21 | 29–34 | Above average / league | Competitive league bowlers |
| > 21 | > 34 | Advanced / competitive | PBA, semi-pro |
Speed Ranges Explained
Under 10 mph — Very Slow
Typical for beginners, youth bowlers, or those using a very light ball. Focus on consistent release and timing before worrying about speed.
10–13 mph — Below Average
Room to build speed with better technique. A free, relaxed release and proper approach often add 2–4 mph.
14–17 mph — Average Recreational
The most common range for casual and recreational bowlers. Effective on typical house conditions. Good balance of speed and control.
18–21 mph — Above Average / League
Common among league bowlers who average 170–200. Requires solid mechanics and consistent approach.
Over 21 mph — Advanced / Competitive
PBA-level speed. Requires strong technique to maintain accuracy. Most recreational bowlers do not need to reach this range to score well.
Release Speed vs. Pin Speed
The chart shows speed at the pins. The ball decelerates 2–3 mph from release to impact. To estimate release speed, add 2–3 mph to the pin speed.
| Pin Speed (mph) | Approx. Release Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| 14 | 16–17 |
| 17 | 19–20 |
| 20 | 22–23 |
| 22 | 24–25 |
How to Use This Chart
- Measure your speed — Use our Bowling Ball Speed Calculator with a stopwatch.
- Find your range — Match your result to the chart above.
- Compare — See how you stack up against typical bowlers at your level.
Related Tools and Articles
- Bowling Ball Speed Calculator — measure your speed
- Average Bowling Ball Speed — what to expect at every level
- Slow vs. Fast Bowling Ball Speed — does speed matter?
- What is a Good Bowling Ball Speed? — benchmarks and tips