How much should you spend on a pickleball paddle?

Pickleball paddle prices can vary. Most high-quality options will cost between $80 and $150. Less expensive paddles might not be as durable, while more expensive ones may have high-tech features that beginners and intermediate players don’t need. The cheapest adult paddle on our list, Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Wood Paddle Set, is often available for under $30 (and includes two paddles). The most expensive paddles on our list, Joola’s Ben Johns Hyperion Swift Pickleball Paddle and Engage’s Encore EX 6.0 Pickleball Paddle, were both around $220 when we published this list.

What are the most popular pickleball paddles?

Our experts chose Joola, Selkirk, and Gamma as some of their favorite brands. If you are a competitive player, then a regulation paddle is a must. USA Pickleball lists approved paddles on its website. If an approved paddle is important to you, cross-reference your choice before you buy.

How do you know what size pickleball paddle you need?

The size of the paddle’s face is a personal preference. Standard paddles are most common, but larger face paddles have become popular as their larger area means more chance to make contact with the ball and a larger sweet spot when you do. Elongated paddles have a better reach but are narrower, limiting the size of the sweet spot.

Is it better to have a lighter or heavier pickleball paddle?

Balancing the type of player you are with a paddle that is comfortable over the long haul is important and will drive the weight of your paddle choice. If you play often, a heavier paddle may tire your hands and arms out quickly. But a lightweight paddle may not have the right feel. The type of player you are will also determine which paddle works best for you—heavier paddles are better for power shots, while lighter ones are easier to maneuver. Testing a variety of paddles is a good way to find the weight that works for you.

What is the life span of a pickleball paddle?

You’ll know when it is time to change your paddle when it stops performing. The core will start to “deaden,” Coyne says, and the paddle won’t be responsive anymore. As a rough guideline, if you play three days a week for three hours each day, your paddle should last for around a year.

The 15 Best Pickleball Paddles of 2023

Pickleball offers a challenging cardio workout, improves balance, and boosts hand-eye coordination. It’s also one of the fastest growing sports—by some estimates, 36 million people played pickleball last year, Laurel Heilman, a certified pickleball coach and owner of Pickleball Lessons by Laurel in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, says.

Choosing the right pickleball paddle can affect your performance on the court. Options can vary, with a variety of shapes, lengths, weights, and materials to choose from. While many of the specifics come down to personal preference, when shopping, prioritize durable paddles that are easy for you to hold. Some paddles are also better for players at certain skill levels, so look for one in your budget that has all the features you need (and not the expensive ones you don’t).

To help you find the best pickleball paddle, we researched dozens from the top, trusted brands. We also consulted experts to get their opinion on which pickleball paddle features are worth investing in. Below are our top picks to help you chop, drive, and rally your way to victory.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Joola Pickleball Paddle at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Paddle Set at Amazon

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Best for Beginners:

Selkirk Sport Pickleball Paddle at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Intermediate Players:

Paddletek Pro Pickleball Paddle at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Advanced Players:

Joola Swift Pickleball Paddle at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Kids:

Helium Pickleball Paddle at Amazon

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Best Elongated Paddle:

Head Pickleball Paddle at Amazon

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Best Edgeless:

PCKL Pickleball Paddle at Amazon

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Best for Power:

Paddletek Pro Pickleball Paddle at Amazon

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Best for Control:

Engage Pickleball Paddle at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

Amazon

Pros

Two face sizes
Textured, grippy surface
Durable

Cons

Expensive

Joola’s Vision Paddle is our top overall pick because it’s a solid, mid-weight pickleball paddle that works for both intermediate and advanced players. “When I found Joola paddles, that was it for me,” says Laurie Coyne, a certified pickleball coach in Virginia Beach, Virginia. “The paddle elevates my ability to control the ball, reduces pop-ups, unforced errors, and when needed provides me with power, pace, and spin.”

A plastic honeycomb core reduces vibration, for better control and less arm fatigue. As the paddle makes contact with the ball, the core compresses to absorb the impact. Then, as the ball leaves the surface of the paddle, the core springs back. The result is a durable paddle that maintains its shape over time and will hold up to regular use.

Joola offers the Vision in two paddle face sizes, 16 millimeters and 14 millimeters, so you can find the best fit. Each comes with an anti-slip grip that’s easy to hold. And we like the curved paddle head, which reduces drag and helps improve your swing speed. It’s more expensive than other options on our list, but we think it’s well worth the investment.

Price at time of publication: $169

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Polymer | Surface Materials: Carbon grip | Shape: Oval | Weight: 11.2 ounces | Handle Length: 5.5 inches | Grip Circumference: Not listed}

Amazon

Pros

Sturdy
Has wrist strap
Comes with carrying bag and pickleballs

Cons

May dent or scratch

For beginners, we recommend Amazin’ Aces’ budget-friendly paddles made from seven-ply maple wood. We like this set because not only are the paddles thick and sturdy, but they also come with four pickleballs and a mesh carrying bag, so you can start playing right away. For those who primarily work out on rowing machines or ellipticals and want to round out their fitness routine with another type of cardio, the set provides a cost-effective option.

These edgeless paddles come with plush grips and wrist straps, for added safety. Users also note that the sound the paddles make when hitting the ball is a quiet, satisfying “pop.”

However, wood paddles aren’t as durable—meaning these may dent or scratch if they are dropped or scrape the ground. But for a set to get you started with the sport, Amazin’ Aces has all the essentials at the lowest price on our list.

Price at time of publication: $26

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: 7-ply Maple | Surface Materials: 7-ply Maple | Shape: Standard | Weight: 10 ounces | Handle Length: 5.5 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Lightweight
Budget-friendly
Large sweet spot

Cons

Loud
Not as durable

When choosing a beginner pickleball paddle, Coyne suggests looking for an entry-level paddle from a reputable brand. “Selkirk is family owned and started as a pickleball-only company,” Heilman adds. “Their technological advances make all of their paddles top-notch.”

Enter Selkirk Sport’s SLK Latitude, a budget-friendly paddle with a range of helpful features. We like that it’s lightweight, at just 6.9 ounces—almost half the weight of our top overall pick, Joola’s Vision Pickleball Paddle. It's a great way to add pickleball to your regimen of balance-improving activities, like stability training on balance boards, without shelling out much money.

The graphite face has a large sweet spot, so beginners can rally confidently. The paddle also allows for good, balanced control, with an edge guard that keeps the ball in play. The SLK Latitude is lightweight, offers a consistent hit, and has a comfortable grip that absorbs impact. But those who prefer strong power swings may find this paddle to be less durable than others. It’s also loud, particularly during power hits.

Price at the time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Polymer Rev-Core | Surface Materials: G4 Graphite | Shape: Standard | Weight: 6.9 ounces | Handle Length: 5.25 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Large sweet spot
Precision accuracy

Cons

Expensive

With control, accuracy, and speed, PaddleTek’s Tempest Wave Pro Pickleball Paddle is our top pick for intermediate players. It features a textured graphite surface that dampens vibrations on contact and weight distribution that provides the accuracy needed to close the game.

It also has a large sweet spot and provides a nice “pop” sound on contact. The cushioned hand grip comes in two sizes and feels comfortable throughout the game. We like that there’s a large sweet spot, so you can focus on your opponent (not your form).

The paddle’s design enhances accuracy, too, to help improve your aim. Overall, we recommend PaddleTek’s Tempest Wave Pro as a long-term paddle for dedicated players.

Price at time of publication: $180

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Tempest Graphite Polymer Composite | Surface Materials: Graphite | Shape: standard | Weight: 7.6 ounces | Handle Length: 5.25 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.38 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Reactive polymer core
Low vibration
Great control

Cons

Expensive

With a textured, carbon surface, Joola’s Hyperion Swift Paddle is another favorite of Heilman’s. The reactive polymer core creates a low vibration and provides plenty of control, for players who are looking to improve their technique.

The edged curved head reduces drag, while the paddle’s light weight boosts your swing speed. And a foam-injected perimeter increases the paddle’s sweet spot.

The Hyperion Swift also features a carbon-forged handle with an anti-slip grip that provides maximum flex and improves shock absorption. This paddle is durable, light, fast, and consistent. But it is one of the most expensive options on our list.

Price at time of publication: $220

^{Key Specs
Core Materials: Polymer Composite Honeycomb | Surface Materials: Carbon-Flex 5 | Shape: standard | Weight: 7.9 ounces | Handle Length: 5.5 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Large paddle face
Small grip
Comes with a drawstring bag

Cons

May be too small for older kids

Recommended for players ages 4 to 11, Helium’s Pickleball Paddle is our top pick for kids looking to get out on the court. It’s lighter than standard paddles, so little arms won’t get too tired, and it has a larger surface area for more reliable contact with the ball.

Helium’s paddle has a similar design to the brand’s standard paddles, including a polypropylene honeycomb interior and a carbon fiber graphite face. There’s a durable edge guard, too, to prevent scuffs and scrapes.

The smaller, 1-inch handgrip is also sized for smaller hands. But older players may find it too small or too short to hold easily. We like that a drawstring carrying bag is included, for easy portability. This paddle is also available in a pink design and a set of two.

Price at time of publication: $25

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Polypropylene honeycomb | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Shape: Standard | Weight: 6 ounces | Handle Length: Not listed | Grip Circumference: 1 inch}

Amazon

Pros

Good spin
Lightweight feel

Cons

Small sweet spot

Head’s Radical XL Pickleball Paddle has a durable design that maximizes your control and power. If you’re looking to try an elongated paddle, this one’s larger surface area can help you better reach tough dinks and smashes. While the sweet spot is in the center, some players have noticed that it’s on the smaller side.

The longer length is offset by a narrower face, which keeps the paddle feeling light. But even with the narrower width, it also provides good spin and shot placement, thanks to a textured surface.

The grip on this paddle absorbs sweat quickly, so it stays securely in your hand. No slipping, no dripping—and the only dropping during heated play will be your drop shots across the net.

Price at time of publication: $100

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Carbon | Surface Materials: Graphite | Shape: Elongated | Weight: 7.6 ounces | Handle Length: Not listed | Grip Circumference: 4.4 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Large sweet spot
Comfortable corded grip

Cons

Heavier hitters may need more structure

Pickleball shots are often missed when the ball makes contact with a paddle’s edge. But PCKL’s Premium Pickleball Paddle has an edgeless design, which makes botched shots a thing of the past. Coupled with a polypropylene core and larger sweet spot, the design makes for clean swings, while the rough grit carbon face improves both spin and power.

Although the edgeless construction is great for increasing the size of the paddle’s sweet spot, heavier hitters may prefer the additional structure of an edged paddle. We like the corded grip, which is comfortable to hold, even as things heat up on the court.

We like this paddle for intermediate players, particularly for those looking to try a different design and playing feel.

Price at time of publication: $90

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Polypropylene | Surface Materials: Carbon | Shape: Standard | Weight: 7.5 ounces | Handle Length: Not listed | Grip Circumference: Not listed}

Amazon

Pros

Heavy
Two grip size options
Large sweet spot

Cons

Handle may be too short for some

For crushing power shots, we recommend Paddletek’s Bantam EX-L Pro Pickleball Paddle. We like that you can choose from two grip options, to find the size that gives you the most control. The paddle is also edged, for better shock absorption.

The paddle’s weight is at the top of the pickleball range, which helps with power shots, and the textured polycarbonate face helps with topspin. It also has a large sweet spot, for longer rallies.

But it’s worth noting that this paddle has a 4.75-inch long handle, which is about 0.5 inches shorter than most others on our list. As a result, although it has an absorbent, cushioned grip, it might feel awkward for some players to hold.

Price at the time of publication: $150

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Polymer Composite Honeycomb | Surface Materials: Polycarbonate | Shape: standard | Weight: 8.3 ounces | Handle Length: 4.75 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.13 inches or 4.38 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Responsive
Large sweet spot
Quiet

Cons

Expensive

If you’re looking to improve your control, we recommend this paddle from Engage. Placement of the ball is key during intense games, and the Encore’s responsive face has a highly textured skin that compresses and releases the ball at the same rate. This helps you consistently land shots.

The paddle’s design also makes it easy to add topspin to the ball. We especially like the 0.5-inch thick core, which is ideal for controlled dinks, blocks, and drives. Often, as paddles get thicker, their sweet spots get smaller—but this one retains a large spot in the center.

Players also note that this paddle is quiet, so you can stay focused. However, it’s one of the most expensive options on our list.

Price at time of publication: $220

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Polymer ControlPro Polymer | Surface Materials: FiberTEK | Shape: Standard | Weight: 8 ounces | Handle Length: 5 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.38 inches}

Pickleball Central

Pros

Wide face
Large sweet spot
Good for doubles

Cons

Shape may be difficult to get used to

Wilson’s Juice Paddle is a medium-weight, fiberglass paddle with a wide face and a large sweet spot to match. It excels on shot depth and accuracy—plus, the surface treatment delivers a mean spin that can give you an edge over your opponents.

A firm, tacky grip helps stabilize the paddle at contact. We like the polypropylene core, which reduces vibrations and eases fatigue in your swing arm. This paddle also has an edge guard, to protect it from drops and scuffs.

Although the wide face has plenty of benefits, it may feel awkward for players who are used to a more traditional size and shape. If you love to spin the ball, the Wilson Juice has the right features for lasting impact.

Price at time of publication: $120

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Polypropylene Honeycomb | Surface Materials: Fiberglass composite blend | Shape: Standard | Weight: 7.6 ounces | Handle Length: 5 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Unique shape
Core reduces vibration
Replaceable edge guard

Cons

Tungsten beads may rattle
Expensive

While other paddles on our list are slightly lighter, they don’t offer the same features that ProKennex’s Ovation Flight Paddle does—making it our pick for the most advanced lightweight paddle on the market. The unique, oval shape reduces drag and allows for faster paddle rotation, making it highly maneuverable. Players will also find that the shape offers ball contact that’s just as consistent as with standard paddles.

A tungsten-filled honeycomb chamber core reduces vibration and evenly distributes energy to protect against jarring impacts. The paddle is also designed with tungsten beads that further block vibration, although some users have noticed that the beads may rattle.

The paddle’s edge guard is both aerodynamic and replaceable, so scuffs are no big deal. And we like the cushioned, comfortable grip. While it comes in a range of bright colors, it’s more of an investment than other paddles on our list.

Price at time of publication: $180-$200

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Honeycomb | Surface Materials: Toray T700 carbon fiber | Shape: Oval | Weight: 7.4 ounces | Handle Length: 4.88 inches | Grip Circumference: 4 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Approved for tournament play
Made in the USA

Cons

Edge may not be as durable

For a reliable mid-weight paddle, we recommend the Mirage from Gamma. It features a textured composite fiberglass surface that is great for control and power. Its polypropylene core, with 0.5-inch thick honeycomb cells, makes wayward dinks a thing of the past.

The cushioned grip is comfortable and firm, and provides great traction, even on warm days. But some players have noticed that the edge guard may crack, making it less durable than others on our list. Made in the USA and sanctioned by USA Pickleball for tournament play, the Mirage comes in a handful of colors, so you can customize your look as well as your game.

The brand is a favorite of Heilman’s: “I like the high-quality Gamma paddles,” she says. “Their company is based in my hometown of Pittsburgh and they have paddles for every level of play at good prices, especially for starter paddles.” While the price is on the higher end for a mid-weight paddle, we think it offers control and power at a good value.

Price at time of publication: $90

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Fiberglass | Surface Materials: Textured fiberglass | Shape: Elongated | Weight: 8 ounces | Handle Length: 4.75 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.13 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Good for power
Minimal vibration
Budget-friendly

Cons

Less spin

Weighing in at 8.1 ounces, the Head Radical Elite Pickleball paddle is the heaviest option on our list. It offers a lot of power, yet still has the control many intermediate players look for.

The fiberglass hitting surface packs a punch, though with a softer feel and more comfort. A polypropylene honeycomb core for minimum vibration and an ergonomic handle round out the player-friendly design.

We like the budget-friendly price point, and while the paddle’s face has less texture than other paddles on our list and therefore doesn’t provide as much spin, we think it’s a solid choice for those looking to hold their own on the court.

Price at time of publication: $64

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Composite | Surface Materials: Fiberglass | Shape: Standard | Weight: 8.1 ounces | Handle Length: 5 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Long handles
Best for beginners
Budget-friendly

Cons

Not as durable

We recommend this set from Selkirk for beginner players who want to pick up all the pickleball essentials at once. You get two paddles, four pickleball, and a large carrying bag—enough to get started (or to fully equip your doubles team).

The paddles’ multilayer construction combines graphite and fiberglass for good power and control. However, these materials aren’t as durable as others on our list. But they are edged to protect against low shots, where paddles risk skimming the court.

Even so, the honeycomb core, decent sweet spot, long handles, and the paddle’s weight make this set perfect for players who are just starting out.

Price at time of publication: $80

^{Key Specs:
Core Materials: Fiberglass | Surface Materials: Graphite | Shape: Standard | Weight: 7.5 ounces (per paddle) | Handle Length: 5.25 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches}

How We Selected the Best Pickleball Paddles

To find the best pickleball paddles, we first asked Wayne Dollard, founder of LevelUp Pickleball Camps, along with Heilman and Coyne for their expert opinions on which features and materials set high-quality paddles apart from the rest. They also provided their input on which paddles are best for certain skill levels and budgets.

Then, we researched dozens of paddles from the top, trusted brands. We considered materials, durability, power, control, price, and more.

What to Look for in a Pickleball Paddle

Materials

Pickleball paddles can be made from a range of materials, including wood, graphite, polypropylene (plastic), carbon fiber, fiberglass, and more.

Carbon fiber is lighter, softer, durable, and great for controlling the ball, but doesn’t perform as well for power hits. These paddles are also usually more expensive and favored by most advanced players, Dollard says. Fiberglass paddles are less expensive and provide better power.

Graphite paddles are light, strong, and best for quick shots because the balls don’t sink into the surface on contact. They’re also more responsive and tend to be less expensive. Most paddle cores are made from polymer, which bounces the ball off the paddle well.

Skill Level

Ideally, the best pickleball paddle can grow with you as your skill level increases from beginner to advanced. We recommend Selkirk Sport’s SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle for beginners, PaddleTek’s Tempest Wave Pro Pickleball Paddle for intermediate players, and Joola’s Ben Johns Hyperion Swift Pickleball Paddle for advanced players. If you already know your style (power hitter or controlled), it’s best to select a paddle that’s designed to enhance the way you play.

Power vs. Control

The power behind a pickleball shot refers to its speed. Faster, harder shots are fun to hit, make a satisfying “pop” on the paddle’s surface, and can be challenging to return. The control of a pickleball shot is how easy it is to accurately direct where the ball will land. A paddle’s design, especially the materials it’s made from and its weight, will determine whether it has better power, control, or a balance of both.

For power, Paddletek’s Bantam EX-L Pro Pickleball Paddle is our pick. If you’re looking for better control, try Engage’s Encore EX 6.0 Pickleball Paddle.

Weight

Pickleball paddles come in three weight classes: light (less than 7 ounces), medium (between 7 and 8 ounces), and heavy (over 8 ounces). Medium-weight paddles are the most common. Heavy paddles give the most power and reduce vibration. Lighter paddles provide less power, but more maneuverability. Dollard recommends getting the heaviest paddle you are comfortable playing with, as it will feel more stable and enable better, more accurate play.

Handle Length and Grip

Pickleball paddle handles can range in length. Certain playing styles require specific handles: For example, a longer handle is better for players who prefer a two-handed backhand. To find the size that’s right for you, grab a ruler. With your fingers together and your palm flat, measure from the lowest crease in your palm to the top of your ring finger. The number of inches will tell you how long your paddle’s handle should be. You can also use trial and error by testing different paddles to see what feels right.

Paddle handles are usually covered by some type of grip. Comfort is key here—it’s up to personal preference what kind of grip will feel the best to you. Grips that are too small will force you to squeeze the handle harder, leading to fatigue. Grips that are too large are hard to hold and will limit your wrist motions.

Surface Area

Generally, paddles with a larger surface area have a bigger sweet spot, so many players favor them. Just make sure you stay within regulation size—according to USA Pickleball, a paddle can’t be longer than 17 inches. (Some but not all of our top picks are USA Pickleball-approved. This designation may be important if you want to join a competitive pickleball league or tournament.)

Elongated paddles have better reach, but because they are narrower, they may have a smaller sweet spot. Commonly used standard size paddles are a good mix between the two.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should you spend on a pickleball paddle?

Pickleball paddle prices can vary. Most high-quality options will cost between $80 and $150. Less expensive paddles might not be as durable, while more expensive ones may have high-tech features that beginners and intermediate players don’t need. The cheapest adult paddle on our list, Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Wood Paddle Set, is often available for under $30 (and includes two paddles). The most expensive paddles on our list, Joola’s Ben Johns Hyperion Swift Pickleball Paddle and Engage’s Encore EX 6.0 Pickleball Paddle, were both around $220 when we published this list.
What are the most popular pickleball paddles?

Our experts chose Joola, Selkirk, and Gamma as some of their favorite brands. If you are a competitive player, then a regulation paddle is a must. USA Pickleball lists approved paddles on its website. If an approved paddle is important to you, cross-reference your choice before you buy.
How do you know what size pickleball paddle you need?

The size of the paddle’s face is a personal preference. Standard paddles are most common, but larger face paddles have become popular as their larger area means more chance to make contact with the ball and a larger sweet spot when you do. Elongated paddles have a better reach but are narrower, limiting the size of the sweet spot.
Is it better to have a lighter or heavier pickleball paddle?

Balancing the type of player you are with a paddle that is comfortable over the long haul is important and will drive the weight of your paddle choice. If you play often, a heavier paddle may tire your hands and arms out quickly. But a lightweight paddle may not have the right feel. The type of player you are will also determine which paddle works best for you—heavier paddles are better for power shots, while lighter ones are easier to maneuver. Testing a variety of paddles is a good way to find the weight that works for you.
What is the life span of a pickleball paddle?

You’ll know when it is time to change your paddle when it stops performing. The core will start to “deaden,” Coyne says, and the paddle won’t be responsive anymore. As a rough guideline, if you play three days a week for three hours each day, your paddle should last for around a year.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Amy Scanlin is a fitness writer and certified group fitness instructor who enjoys hitting the pickleball court on a regular basis. With gear an essential component of the game, she endeavors to seek guidance from experts and to provide recommendations for products that are reliable, dependable, and well-reviewed by those who have tried them.

Rule the Pickleball Court With These 50 Must-Haves, From Paddles to Athleisure