When starting out, there isn’t much to pickleball: the only two things you really need are a paddle and a ball (assuming you’re already on a court). Simple enough, right?
(Of course, as you get more advanced you may want to start exploring other gear — check out our guide to pickleball equipment here.)
A simple Google search for “pickleball paddle” will yield 1.8 million results. How are you supposed to wrap your head around that much information, especially if you’ve never even picked up a pickleball paddle before?
Lucky for you, this article will cut through the jargon and slick marketing lingo, such as “kinetic technology” and “spin radius.” Instead, we’ll lay out the top pickleball paddle options for you based on user reviews in three categories:
- Beginner pickleball paddles
- Budget pickleball paddles
- Pickleball paddles available on Amazon
You’re probably eager to get on the court, learn how to play, and have fun with your family or friends. The last thing you want to do is waste hours (or days) sifting through pages of pickleball paddles. So, if you want to spend more time playing pickleball and less time online, take a look at the options below.
Note: you might want to check out this comprehensive article about pickleball paddles before reading this one.
The Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners
Never played pickleball before or just getting started? Chances are you’re looking for a paddle that’s reliable, moderately priced, and can keep you competitive. These options check all three of those boxes.
1. Paddletek Phoenix LTE
Clocking in at 7.1 oz, this falls into the lightweight paddle category. It’s not for power shots by any means, but the feather-like weight will let you keep plenty of control, which is essential for beginner pickleball players. The Paddletek Phoenix LTE is also a great option for kids, not just adults.
At a glance:
- Price: $57
- Weight: 7.1 oz
- Length: 15 3/4″
- Width: 7 3/4″
- Grip circumference: 4 1/4″
- Surface: Poly
- Core: Poly
- Buy: Amzn
2. Rally Graphite Power 2.0
An updated model of the original Rally Graphite Power, this paddle offers a great balance of power and control which is beneficial for new players. At about eight ounces, the Rally 2.0 is great for precise placements while still letting you pack a punch if you need to. Another benefit is the large sweet spot, meaning you don’t have to hit the ball exactly right to make a good shot.
At a glance:
- Price: $88
- Weight: 7.9 oz
- Length: 15 3/4″
- Width: 8 1/8″
- Grip circumference: 4 1/4″
- Surface: Graphite
- Core: Polypropylene Honeycomb
- Buy: Amzn
3. Gamma Fusion 2.0
Also a middle-weight paddle, the Gamma Fusion 2.0 lives up to its name: It fuses power, control, and touch—all crucial when you’re just learning the game. The paddle’s textured fiberglass face makes it easier to put spin on the ball while still retaining control. The honeycomb cushion grip is perfect for those who aren’t familiar with the feel of a pickleball paddle, since it absorbs shock and resists slipping.
At a glance:
- Price: $40
- Weight: 8 oz
- Length: 15 3/4″
- Width: 8 1/2″
- Grip circumference: 4″
- Surface: Fiberglass
- Core: Composite
- Buy: Pickleball Central
The Best Budget Pickleball Paddles
If you want to experiment with pickleball or only play a couple times a month, forking up a stack of cash for a paddle probably isn’t the smartest move. Sure, there are plenty of amazing options out there, but many of them can cost you $100 or more.
These three paddles are less than $30 and still get the job done. Whether you need extra paddles for visitors or want to test the waters before becoming a full-blown pickleball buff, these options have you covered.
1. Diller Pickleball Paddle
Most modern pickleball paddles are made of plastic, graphite, or aluminum, but that doesn’t mean wood can’t work as well. In fact, the very first pickleball paddles were made of wood. These types of paddles are much easier to manufacture, hence the lower price. For decades, Diller paddles have been a reliable option for schools, community centers, and families. This specific paddle consists of 7-ply hardwood (lighter than many other wood paddles) and comes with a safety wrist strap.
At a glance:
- Price: $14
- Weight: 10 oz
- Length: 15 1/2″
- Width: 7″
- Grip circumference: 4 1/4″
- Surface: Wood
- Core: Wood
- Buy: Pickleball Central
2. Franklin Challenger Pickleball Paddle
The Challenger is USAPA approved and ideal for intermediate or beginner players looking for an entry level paddle at an entry level price. The responsive aluminum surface puts ample “pop” on the ball without overpowering your shots.
At a glance:
- Price: $19
- Weight: 9.6 oz
- Length: 10 1/2″
- Width: 7 1/2″
- Grip circumference: 4 1/8″
- Surface: Aluminum
- Core: Aluminum
- Buy: Amzn
3. Optima Polymer Composite Pickleball Paddle
You’d be hard-pressed to find a solid quality pickleball paddle at a better value. The Optima is on the heavier side because of the edge guard, but then again the paddle will last longer since it’s protected from dings. It’s made of carbon fiber and graphite, making it strong yet quiet. Also, the large hitting surface is ideal for beginners who don’t have the best accuracy with their shots.
At a glance:
- Price: $24
- Weight: 9 oz
- Length: 16″
- Width: 7 1/4″
- Grip circumference: 4 1/4″
- Surface: Carbon/Graphite composite
- Core: Polymer
- Buy: Amzn
Best Pickleball Paddles Available On Amazon
Amazon is undeniably one of the easiest places to shop online. You can buy almost anything you want—including a new pickleball paddle. There are endless options, which seems great…until you realize there are more than 10,000 options (seriously).
It’s almost impossible to distill all the pickleball paddles on Amazon down to the three best options, but we did our best based on customer reviews. All of the following pickleball paddles have a five-star rating with at least 100 reviews, meaning plenty of people have used and enjoyed them.
1. JP WinLook Pickleball Paddle Set
An Amazon’s Choice selection with 450+ reviews, you won’t find a better value for a paddle set online. Not only does this set come with two composite pickleball paddles—it includes three balls and a case as well.
The paddles themselves are ideal for beginners: mid-weight, power/control balance, edge guard, and a non-slip grip. This is an ideal starter pack for beginners, intermediate players, kids, or adults.
At a glance:
- Price: $59 (includes two paddles)
- Weight: 7.8 oz
- Length: 16″
- Width: 7 3/4″
- Grip circumference: 4 1/8″
- Surface: Carbon/Graphite composite
- Core: Polymer
- Buy: Amzn
2. Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle
If you’re willing to splurge on a pickleball paddle, this may be your best bet. At $129.99, this is the most expensive paddle listed in this article, but there are several reasons to justify the price.
This specific paddle is used by more than 200 sponsored professional and ranked players across the globe. It has a larger sweet spot, a thicker design for increased power, and a unidirectional fiberglass surface for optimal shot accuracy. If you’re brand new to pickleball, you might want to start with a more basic paddle. But if you think you’ve got game, this Selkirk is well worth the investment.
At a glance:
- Price: $129.99
- Weight: 7.9-8.3 oz
- Length: 17″
- Width: 7″
- Grip circumference: 4 1/4″
- Surface: Fiberglass
- Core: Polymer
- Buy: Amzn
3. Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Paddle Set
Another great two-paddle deal from Amazon, these Amazin’ Aces paddles have all the features you need as a beginner or intermediate player: mid-weight design, a large sweet spot, and balanced dimensions. Amazin’ Aces is used by tens of thousands of players (this paddle alone has almost 600 reviews) and caters to all skill levels.
Bottom line: a pickleball paddle doesn’t get this popular unless it’s quality, performance, and value are superior. There’s a one-year warranty to back it up. As a bonus, this paddle set comes with four balls and and a free ebook, “The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Pickleball.”
At a glance:
- Price: $64.99 (includes two paddles)
- Weight: 8.4 oz
- Length: 15 7/8″
- Width: 8″
- Grip circumference: 4 1/4″
- Surface: Graphite
- Core: Polymer
- Buy: Amzn
Final Thoughts
As a rule of thumb, new pickleball players should opt for a mid-weight, composite pickleball paddle in the $50 range. Of course, there are dozens of factors to consider when you’re weighing your option: age, skill level, budget, etc.
The only definite way to know if a specific pickleball paddle works for you is to test it out in person. You might be able to try a friend’s paddle. Otherwise, you can ask an experienced player or instructor to guide your decision.
Regardless of the paddle you choose, you can rest assured that this is going to be your new favorite sport to play!
Question: Is there a pickleball paddle you’d add to this list? Let us know in the comments – we’re always trying to make these articles as helpful as possible.
