| Factor | Baseball | Softball |
|---|---|---|
| Ball size | 9 inches circumference | 11-12 inches |
| Pitch delivery | Overhand | Underhand (windmill) |
| Pitching distance | 18.44m (60.5 ft) | 12-15m (38-50 ft) |
| Field size | Larger (90ft bases) | Smaller (60-65ft bases) |
| Innings | 9 | 7 |
| Ball hardness | Hard (leather) | Softer (but still firm) |
| Pro leagues | MLB (men only) | NPF/USSSA (women's pro) |
Choose Baseball when…
You want the traditional professional game format, are interested in MLB competition, prefer overhand pitching mechanics, or want to develop toward the highest level of the sport.
Choose Softball when…
You're new to the sport and want more accessible pitching, prefer the faster-paced underhand format, play in co-ed recreational leagues, want a sport with strong female professional leagues (NPF), or prefer the smaller field dimensions.
Gear for both
Rawlings Official Baseball
MLB-spec baseball for batting and fielding practice.
Check price on AmazonEaston Softball Bat
Official softball bat for fastpitch and slowpitch competition.
Check price on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
FAQ
Is softball easier than baseball?
The underhand pitch in softball travels at comparable effective speeds to baseball when accounting for shorter distance — reaction times are similar. Softball pitching (fastpitch) creates different mechanical challenges. Most skills transfer between the two sports.
Is the pitching distance the same in baseball and softball?
No. The standard pitching distance in baseball is 60 feet 6 inches (18.4m) for adult play. In softball it is 43 feet (13.1m) for women's fastpitch and 46 feet (14m) for men's slowpitch. Despite the shorter distance, fastpitch softball pitches arrive at home plate in less time because the delivery is faster relative to the distance.
Why does softball use underarm pitching?
Softball was originally designed as an indoor game using underarm pitching to reduce injury risk and fit in smaller spaces. The larger ball and underarm delivery also made the game more accessible — the underarm motion is more natural for non-specialists. Underarm pitching in fastpitch softball can reach speeds of 65–70+ mph, which arrives at the batter as fast as an 85–95 mph overarm baseball pitch due to the shorter pitching distance.