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So, you’ve decided to play pickleball. Great choice—welcome to the addiction.
Naturally, your first move is to Google “best pickleball paddles,” and that’s where the chaos begins. Suddenly, you’re drowning in options. There are paddles with high-tech jargon, paddles that cost more than your first car, and paddles with random holes that look cool but mean...absolutely nothing.
And here’s the thing—just because a paddle has a futuristic hole doesn’t make it better. And no, the $300 paddle isn’t automatically superior to the $200 paddle either. Let’s demystify this madness, shall we?
I get it—choice paralysis is real. My first paddle? A $5 wooden special from Five Below that lasted about 20 minutes before it gave up on life and snapped its neck. Then came the Onix Z5, the trusty starter paddle I impulsively bought and just as impulsively returned the next day after going down a Google rabbit hole. From there, it was a full-on obsession.
Which is exactly why I put this guide together. To cut through the noise, save you from the same trial-and-error spiral, and make this whole process less...insane. Let’s speak pickleball.
Quick heads-up: We didn’t accept any payments or incentives for this paddle roundup, and no brands had a say in our picks. Some paddles were sent for testing, but with zero strings attached. This article may include affiliate links, which help support our work at no extra cost to you. Thanks, as always, for fueling our passion project!
Choose your path
Most paddle reviews love to nerd out on tech specs right off the bat—but if you’re not fluent in “swing weight” and “twist weight,” that’s not super helpful. So, I’ve taken a different route: here’s a list of common scenarios and the paddle budgets that fit them best.
I have no background in racquet sports and have no clue if I will enjoy pickleball at all
👉 $25 paddle
I will probably play pickleball just a few times a year just for fun
👉 $25 paddle
I’ve played pickleball a few times and want a decent upgrade from cheap Amazon paddles
👉 $50 paddle
I have racket sport experience and am likely to play on a weekly basis
👉 $100 - $150 paddle
I want to jump straight into learning to use a decent paddle and not spend money on an upgrade in the next 6 months
👉 $100 to $150 paddle
I will probably enjoy playing pickleball on a regular basis (1-3x per week)
👉 $100 - $150 paddle
I have a highly addictive personality with a lot of discretionary income
👉 $150+ paddle
I just want the newest and coolest tech
👉 $200+ paddle
I’m ready to spend thousands of dollars on pickleball, only to never play again a month later
👉 therapy
Best paddles under $25
Let’s get straight to it: if your budget is $25, forget about shapes, thickness, or face materials—it’s not worth the mental energy. For that price, a fiberglass + carbon fiber paddle from Amazon will do the trick. Brands like MTEN or Niupipo are solid bets, and they’ll throw in a bag and a few beginner balls. Want to save even more? Check Facebook Marketplace—people are always offloading paddles there for cheap.
I went this route myself and still keep my Amazon paddles in the car to lend out to friends when I introduce them to the sport. They’re reliable and a great starting point.
Best paddles under $50
If you’re ready to step up but still want something cute and affordable, Friday Pickleball’s two-for-$99 deal is the sweet spot. These paddles have just enough polish to make you feel fancy without sending you into a financial tailspin. They’re basically the starter pack for pickleball obsession—the gateway drug that gets you hooked before you start justifying $200 paddles.
Here’s the thing: these paddles punch way above their weight class. Construction-wise, they’re as good as some paddles double their price. And it’s backed with a 99-day money-back guarantee.
We’ll dive into the nitty-gritty paddle specs in a bit (spoiler: not all paddle grit is created equal), but here’s a quick heads-up. Cheaper paddles, like these, often use spray-grit for texture. You’ll notice the spin potential fade faster over time, unlike paddles with T700 carbon fiber faces, which hold onto their spin for way longer. But hey, at $99, these paddles are more than good enough to get you through the honeymoon phase of your pickleball journey.
Alternative: Alibaba & Temu Paddles
Ah, the great pickleball paddle dupe debate. Platforms like Alibaba, AliExpress, and Temu are packed with affordable dupes of high-end paddles. But there’s the ethical dilemma—local paddle brands invest heavily in R&D, marketing, and ensuring fast shipping. Is it fair to bypass all that for a cheaper clone? On the flip side, paying $250 for a paddle with questionable durability and quality control isn’t great either. Welcome to the messy middle where most of us live.
Among budget paddles, a few shine. Juciao paddles, for example, come highly recommended by the Reddit and Discord pickleball communities. Models like the Spin 1.0, Titan 1.0, Accurate-x, and Aeolus 1.0 are even USAP approved. And for those eyeing Gen-3 clones, these knockoffs deliver roughly 60% of the performance at just 30% of the cost—a trade-off some players are happy to make.
That said, buyer beware. Stick to sellers with solid reviews, avoid deals that sound too good to be true, and prepare for shipping timelines that could rival a Hobbit’s journey. If you’ve got patience and a decent risk tolerance, the budget paddle route might be worth exploring.
Best paddles under $100
Up to now, you’ve been playing Pokémon Yellow. You’ve got Pikachu, breezing through the early stages, and life is good. But now, it’s time to think about your starter Pokémon—except in this case, it’s paddle shapes, materials, and designs. This is where your pickleball journey evolves, and things start to get serious.
Intermediate players—those with about a year of experience or a solid racket sports background—typically spend $150-$200 on a paddle. Want the same gear the pros use? That’ll run you $200-$300, though pros aren’t buying them—they’re sponsored. Here’s the good news: for around $100, you can get a paddle that performs exceptionally well, more than capable for beginner to intermediate play or even 4.0 DUPR tournaments. Let’s dive into the top contenders in this price range.
Vatic Pro Prism Flash
The Vatic Pro Prism Flash is basically the gold standard for entry-level paddles. It’s not trying to blow your mind with gimmicks or over-the-top features, and that’s exactly why it works. You get two thickness options—14mm and 16mm—and adjustable handle lengths, with the 16mm longer handle being the fan favorite for added control. It’s not thermoformed, but the build quality is so good that it punches way above its price point, outperforming paddles that cost a lot more. The soft feel, forgiving sweet spot, and well-balanced shape make it perfect for beginners or anyone looking to upgrade without diving into power paddles they’re not ready for yet.
- Price: $99 | Discount $10 off
- Swing Weight: 114 - FAST
- Twist Weight: 6.41 - MEDIUM
- Spin RPM: 1920 - VERY GOOD
- Grip Length: 5.4 inches
- Shape: Hybrid
- Face Material: Raw Carbon Fiber
Stat Source: Pickleball Studio
What the reviewers have to say:
Pickleball Studio: the best you can buy for the price
Pickleball Effect: Feels like I’m stealing money from Vatic Pro
STS Pickleball: Competes with the best
11Six24 Monarch Jelly Bean
The 11Six24 Monarch Jelly Bean is like the friendly neighbor of pickleball paddles—approachable, reliable, and kind of awesome. With prices that sometimes dip as low as $69, it’s one of the best value options out there. You can pick between 14mm and 16mm thickness (pro tip: go with the 16mm for extra control), and it boasts a massive sweet spot that’s both forgiving and beginner-friendly. It’s less stiff than the Vatic Prism, making it more control-oriented and muted, with less pop at the net but enough power for solid drives. Bonus: it now comes in a range of fun colors, because why shouldn’t your paddle match your personality?
Key Stats
- Price $99 | Discount $10 off (sales go as low as $30 off)
- Swing Weight: 108 - LOW
- Twist Weight: 7.14 - HIGH
- Spin RPM: 1940 - VERY GOOD
- Grip Length: 5.75 inches
- Shape: Widebody
- Face Material: Fiberglass + Raw Carbon Fiber
Stat Source: Pickleball Studio
What reviewers have to say:
Pickleball Studio: A home run
Pickleball Effect: No better widebody for the price
John Kew: Contender for paddle of the year
Pickleball Medicine: Best overall paddle for beginner and intermediate players
Best paddles under $200
Honolulu J2K 16MM
The Honolulu J2K is hands-down the best all-court paddle of the year. Factor in the price, it's stellar. Its power-pop-control ratio is spot on, making it versatile for nearly any style of play. The Kevlar J2K model adds a bit of stiffness and extra power, while the J2K Ti softens things up for more finesse and controlled shots. It’s affectionately dubbed “old reliable” by just about everyone who’s played with it, and it’s no surprise—it’s a paddle you can trust to deliver. Small heads-up: the paddle includes a subtle John 3:16 reference on the face, which might matter to you, or not at all. Either way, it’s a crowd favorite for a reason.
Key Stats
- Price $150 | Discount: $10 off
- Swing Weight: 113 - MEDIUM
- Twist Weight: 6.95 - HIGH
- Spin RPM: 1935 - VERY GOOD
- Grip Length: 5.5 inches
- Shape: Hybrid
- Face Material: Kevlar
Stat Source: Pickleball Studio
What the reviewers have to say
Pickleball Studio: Most forgiving hybrid paddle on the market with a sweet spot close to a widebody paddle
Pickleball Effect: Paddle of the year
Volair Mach 2 Forza
The Volair Mach 2 Forza has been around longer than most paddles on this list, but somehow it’s still one of the best control paddles out there. It comes in two flavors: 16mm and 14mm. The 16mm is the crowd favorite, offering rock-solid stability and forgiveness, while the 14mm is the livelier cousin—lighter, poppier, easier to whip around, but also stiffer. Spin? This is a dream paddle for slicers, spinners, and anyone looking to add a little extra dip to their shots. Its widebody design, shorter than elongated paddles but with gloriously wide sides and a massive sweet spot, was so good it basically kick-started a whole trend in paddle shapes. If you’re into precision and control—or you’re a table tennis player making the switch—you’re probably going to love this one.
Key Stats
- Price $180 | Discount:$10 off
- Swing Weight: 110 - FAST
- Twist Weight: 7.22 - HIGH
- Spin RPM: 2139 - VERY HIGH
- Grip Length: 5.5 inches
- Shape: Widebody
- Face Material: Raw Carbon Fiber
Stat Source: Pickleball Studio
What the reviewers have to say
Pickleball Studio: one of the best control paddles you can buy right now – period
John Kew: Innovative shape that performs really well in the control game
Pickleball Effect: among the highest spin recorded
Vatic Pro Saga Flash
While not the most exciting stats-wise, the Saga does a little bit of everything and does it well. On full swings, it delivers solid power, though it’s not the effortless cannon you’d find in something like the Gearbox, Joola Mod, or Ronbus Ripple. If you’ve got a strong swing, you’ll feel the punch, but if you’re expecting the paddle to do the heavy lifting for you, you might want to look elsewhere. At the net, it’s a whole different story—the Saga’s soft, plush feel makes it a control paddle’s dream, especially in the transition zone, where it offers that sweet mix of precision and confidence. Compared to its predecessor, the Prism, the Saga is slightly stiffer and has a touch more pop, making it a solid upgrade. The sweet spot? Bang in the middle—not oversized, not tiny—just right for an all-court player looking for balance over extremes.
Key Stats
- Price $150 | Discount $10 off code: JONPARK
- Swing Weight: 113 - MEDIUM
- Twist Weight: 6.48 - MEDIUM
- Spin RPM: 2022 - HIGH
- Grip Length: 5.3 inches (SH) or 5.75 inches (LH)
- Shape: Hybrid
- Face Material: Raw carbon fiber
- 1 year warranty
Stat Source: Pickleball Studio
What the reviewers have to say
Pickleball Studio: a turbo charged Vatic Prism
Pickleball Effect: Control that can RIP
John Kew: Hits hard at the baseline but control paddle at the net
Spartus Olympus
With its hybrid shape and 14mm thickness, it’s built for players who prioritize power and maneuverability over forgiveness. The proprietary “Ascension Core” combines a stiffer foam in a honeycomb structure for added pop and stability, while a polymer-reinforced neck balances the weight, adding durability and strength. The result is an all-court paddle with solid power and pop that stays just shy of feeling out of control.
Its sweet spot is medium-sized, with a hotspot dead center for satisfying hits, though the edges noticeably taper off. Spin and forgiveness? Decent but not groundbreaking. Control? Below average, but its lightning-fast handling makes up for it in quick exchanges. With a sleek, sharp design, the Olympus is undeniably one of the better-looking paddles out there, but it’s not without quirks—loose edge guards and weak handles have been reported. This paddle shines brightest in the hands of advanced players who can tame its quirks and unlock its full potential.
Key Stats
- Price: $199 | Discount $10 off
- Swing Weight: 110.5 - FAST
- Twist Weight: 6.13 - MEDIUM
- Spin RPM: 2058 - VERY HIGH
- Grip Length: 5.5 inches
- Shape: Hybrid
- Face Material: Raw Carbon Fiber
Stat Source: John Kew
What the reviewers have to say
Pickleball Studio: Favorite 14MM paddle
John Kew: Power within reason
Pickleball Apes Pulse
The Pickleball Apes Pulse offers three distinct shapes, each catering to a specific playstyle. The Elongated E is for those who want maximum reach and power but don’t mind sacrificing a little stability. The Standard S strikes a balance between power and stability, while the Widebody V prioritizes control, making it the go-to for players who value precision over brute force. The widebody is the most popular out of the three and is the most beginner-friendly.
The paddle’s proprietary poly aramid fiber weave and carbon fiber grid rings make it durable and resistant to the dreaded core-crushing curse of Gen-3 paddles. It feels solid and stable, with excellent vibration dampening and a forgiving sweet spot—especially in the Pulse V. Performance-wise, it’s not a power monster, but its controlled, balanced gameplay makes up for that. The unique purple design is a straight-up flex, and with a 30-day trial period, you’ve got nothing to lose. Just be prepared for a short break-in period while the paddle loosens up and starts feeling like an extension of your hand.
Key stats
Pulse E
- Price: $200 | Discount $10 off
- Shape: Elongated
- Swing Weight: 129.3 - LOWER
- Twist Weig 5.88 - LOW
- Spin RPM: 2286 - VERY HIGH
- Grip Length: 6 inches
- Face Material: Kevlar + Nylon
Pulse S
- Price: $200 | Discount $10 off
- Shape: Hybrdiid
- Swing Weight: 114.4 - MEDIUM
- Twist Weight: 6.26 MEDIUM
- Spin RPM: 2183 - VERY HIGH
- Grip Length: 5.5 inches
- Face Material: Kevlar + Nylon
Pulse V
- Price: $200 | Discount $10 off
- Shape: Widebody
- Swing Weight: 112.5 - MEDIUM
- Twist Weight: 7.47 HIGH
- Spin RPM: 2160 - VERY HIGH
- Grip Length: 5.5 inches
- Face Material: Kevlar + Nylon
Stat Source: John Kew
What the reviewers have to say
John Kew: The newest technology for an exceptional paddle with controllable power
Pickleball Medicine: King of control, paddle of the year
Best paddles over $200
PaddleTek ESQ-C
The PaddleTek ESQ-C is like the overachiever of paddles—it’s packed with thoughtful features, but it expects you to keep up. You’ve got two options here: the 14.3mm model, which leans into control and stability, or the 12.7mm version, which is lighter, faster, and a bit harder to tame. Its standard body with a long handle is built for powerful shots, and being made in the USA means the quality and durability are top-notch—it’s designed to take a beating and keep going. The catch? The smaller sweet spot demands precision, so you’ll need solid technique to make the most of it.
What really sets PaddleTek apart is the transparency about their paddles’ lifespan: if you’re grinding on the court daily, expect about a year of use; casual players might get up to three years. And if anything goes wrong, their lifetime guarantee has you covered—seriously, how many paddle brands do that?
Key stats 12.7MM
- Price $250 | 10% discount code
- Swing Weight: 103 - VERY FAST
- Twist Weight: 6.7 - HIGH
- Spin RPM: 1979 - HIGH
- Grip Length: 5.5 inches
- Shape: Standard
- Face Material: Raw Carbon Fiber + Fiberglass
Key stats 14.3MM
- Price $250 | 10% discount code
- Swing Weight: 106: VERY FAST
- Twist Weight: 6.8 - HIGH
- Spin RM: 1905 - HIGH
- 5.5 inches
- Shape: Standard
- Face Material: Raw Carbon Fiber + Fiberglass
Stat Source: Pickleball Studio
What the reviewers have to say
John Kew Review: Top performer in the power category
Pickleball Studio: The best versatile power paddle on the market right now
Pickleball Effect: The 12.7 extreme maneuverability with high pop, makes this a deadly weapon at the net
Pickleball Pursuit: Paddle of the year contender
Gearbox Pro Ultimate Hyper
The Gearbox Pro Ultimate Hyper is like the Swiss watch of paddles—precise, reliable, and engineered to perfection. It’s powerful yet forgiving, with a generous sweet spot that keeps your shots consistent even when your aim isn’t spot on. Its standard shape strikes a perfect balance for versatility, while the controlled power delivers strength without ever feeling unwieldy. Add in its innovative design and standout features, and it’s easily one of the most exciting releases in recent memory.
There’s a short break-in period—it starts off stiff but gradually softens after a few hours of play, adapting like it was made just for you. The handles? Widely considered the best on the market. And the molded carbon fiber construction? A Gearbox signature that sets this paddle apart, combining unmatched performance with durability.
Key stats
- Price: $275 | Discount: $10 off
- Swing Weight: 112.3 - FAST
- Twist Weight: 6.4 - MEDIUM
- Spin RPM: 2178 - VERY HIGH
- Grip Length: 5.5 inches
- Shape: Hybrid
- Face Material: Raw Carbon Fiber
Stat Source: John Kew
What the reviewers have to say
John Kew Review: innovative and balanced with a good feel, sweetspot, and control
Pickleball Tech Dude: the result of a company finally listening to its customers
Honorable-ish mention: Joola Perseus 16MM Mod TA-15
The MOD TA-15 is impossible to ignore—it’s easily the most powerful paddle on the market right now. As a first paddle, it’s basically a cheat code: you’ll crush your opponents by driving every shot and feeling unstoppable. But here’s the catch: pickleball isn’t all about brute force, even if it’s technically within the rules. Sure, you’ll dominate 3.0 players, but as you level up, the lack of fundamentals will hold you back, and fixing bad habits will be much harder down the line. Still, it’s your money, and the choice is yours.
That said, I can’t recommend this paddle without addressing its durability—or lack thereof. These paddles are essentially the glass slippers of pickleball gear: flashy but fragile, with many arriving already core-crushed. Core crushing happens when the polypropylene core degrades, either from repeated use or poor manufacturing. Some even claim that within the first hour of play, the paddle becomes unpredictable—extra pop, less control, and a whole lot of frustration. For a deep dive into how these paddles are made, here’s a great breakdown from Pickleball Studio.
Where to buy your paddle
Before you whip out your credit card, here’s a pro tip: most paddles can be bought for less if you use discount codes from your favorite pickleball creators. It’s a win-win—you get 10-20% off your gear, and they get some support to keep making awesome content. Everybody’s happy, and you’ve got a few extra bucks to spend on court snacks.
Option 1: Support your local pro shop
I love this option because it supports your local pickleball community—and that’s always a win. Plus, there’s the added bonus of seeing the paddle in person and even testing it out before committing. Many pro shops sweeten the deal with rental programs: you leave a small deposit to try out a paddle, and if you like it, you can apply that deposit toward buying a shiny new one when you return the rental.
Option 2: Buy directly from the brand
Buying directly from the brand is a great way to support the pickleball companies pushing the sport forward. Plus, some brands—like Volair—will sweeten the deal by sending you a box set when you order from their website. It’s basically the pickleball version of an influencer PR package. If you want to feel like you’re being spoiled by a beauty brand, this is your moment.
Option 3: Pickleball Central
Pickleball Central is the go-to online hub for paddles and gear. They often run promotions, offer a 30-day paddle test drive, and even sell gently used paddles at discounted prices. That said, the condition of those used paddles can be hit-or-miss, so it’s a bit of a gamble. If you’re eyeing a brand that doesn’t offer direct discounts, some content creators might have promo codes specifically for Pickleball Central.
Option 4: Big Box Stores
Big box stores are a mixed bag. They won’t have the newest paddles with cutting-edge tech, but if you’re in a bind and need a paddle now, they can work in a pinch. Just know you’re likely paying for outdated designs with less value for your dollar. Alternatively, check out discount retailers like Marshalls or TJ Maxx—they sometimes carry carbon fiber or fiberglass paddles for prices similar to Amazon’s, and you might stumble on a hidden gem.
Option 5: Amazon
Love it or hate it, Amazon is hard to ignore, especially for budget paddles under $50. Some well-known brands, like CRBN, Volair, and Ronbus, offer limited selections on Amazon Prime, which is handy if you need a paddle with warp speed delivery. Amazon’s generous return policy is a plus, but keep in mind it can hurt the bottom line of smaller paddle manufacturers—something to consider if you’re all about supporting the pickleball ecosystem.
A few more pro tips before you purchase your next paddle
- Once you’re in the $100+ paddle territory, you’ll start eyeing ways to squeeze out better performance by customizing your paddle. Lead tape or tungsten tape for more power, overgrips for sweat absorption, edge tape for durability, or even a Hesacore grip for better feel. Maybe all of the above. Just keep these costs in mind when you’re budgeting for a new paddle, because they add up.
- Over time, paddles lose their grit (literally), which kills spin performance. Some “thermoformed” paddles also suffer from something called “core crushing”—where the internal materials start to crackle and rattle like a dying bag of chips. If you’re playing 5 times a week, expect to replace your paddle every 4-6 months. Playing just once a week? You can stretch that to a year. Either way, your paddle isn’t immortal—plan accordingly.
- The meta changes stupid fast. The hottest paddle today could be obsolete in three months. That’s why it’s critical to look at recent reviews (within the past 3-4 months) when deciding what to buy. Pickleball tech is evolving faster than my attention span, so I’ll update this article quarterly to keep up with the chaos. Stay tuned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best paddle shape?
Elongated
Elongated paddles are like a knight’s lance, built for players who want extra reach and pack serious power. But like a lance, the paddles are longer and skinnier, so you have to be accurate. They’re less forgiving—miss the sweet spot, especially around the edges and you’ll feel it. For a first paddle, this is the most difficult route.
Most professional players lean toward elongated paddles, including players like James Ignatowich. He’s a big proponent of using the most powerful paddle you can (comfortably) control. Why? It helps you refine your technique, develop shorter volley swings, sharpen your soft game, and gear up for higher-level play.
Standard
The standard paddle shape is the reliable, no-frills option—it’s forgiving, consistent, and dependable. Sure, it doesn’t give you the reach or the raw power you’d get from an elongated paddle, but it makes up for it with a much bigger sweet spot. If you want to work on your placement and accuracy rather than smashing every hit, this is a great place to start.
Hybrid
The hybrid paddle is the Switzerland of paddle shapes—it’s neutral and balanced. You get a nice mix of reach and forgiveness, with enough versatility to adapt to different play styles. If you’re not ready to commit to a single extreme, this paddle shape gives you a bit of everything, much like evenly distributing skill points to your RPG character. It’s the perfect choice for players who value flexibility on the court.
What metrics should I care about?
Stock Weight
- The total weight of the paddle as it comes from the manufacturer, measured in ounces
- Lower stock weight gives more room for customizations like overgrips or lead tape
- Lower stock weight doesnt always equate to faster swings or maneuverability
Swing Weight
- Measures hand speed
- How heavy a paddle feels while swinging, measured by how difficult it is to rotate the paddle around a pivot point
- Higher swing weight increases power but reduces maneuverability, which is most noticeable at the kitchen
Twist Weight
- Measures control
- The paddle’s resistance to twisting when the ball hits the edges of the paddle, away from the sweet spot
- Higher twist weight provides more stability and reduces energy loss on mishits, giving better control and forgiveness
Spin (RPM)
- The paddle’s ability to generate spin on the ball, influenced by the surface texture, friction, and player technique
- Paddles with gritty face materials often produce higher spin, allowing for more control over ball trajectory
Balance Point
- The point along the paddle's length where weight is evenly distributed, typically measured from the handle
- A higher balance point (toward the head) adds power and stability, while a lower balance point (toward the handle) increases maneuverability
