Pickleball.
The first time I heard the name I had to wonder how something so ridiculous sounding was becoming so popular. I had to investigate.
Created impromptu in 1965 by one Joel Pritchard of Seattle to curb the boredom of his disconsolate teenage son, the first game was played between father and son using a plastic Wiffle ball, ping pong paddles, and a badminton net scavenged from the backyard shed.
Thus, a phenomenon was born. Go Dad!
The name, you ask? A sore, controversial point amongst patrons of the sport, it is hotly debated whether the moniker was taken from the family dog, Pickles, or if the name was actually fabricated in allusion to the Pickleboat races popular in Ohio, where Joel’s wife hails from.
Either way, the family had a thing for the brined green veggie and the absurd name stuck.
Now, much more formal and technical than its humble beginnings, the game has specific rules governing play, scoring, and, the reason we’re here, equipment.
Pickleball is a fantastic way to get the whole family unplugged, outside, and active. It’s a blast to play, even with children of mixed ages.
If you’re a pickleball player (or are aspiring to become one) and want to improve your skills, it’s important to invest in the best pickleball paddle that suits your playing style.
There is a range of brands offering all types of pickleball paddles, which makes it overwhelming to narrow it down, especially if you’re on a budget. And so, we have set out to compose this detailed guide that contains the best budget pickleball paddles to choose from.
- OFHQ's Top Picks
- The Line Up: Best Budget Pickleball Paddles of 2022
- 1. Diller Pickleball Paddle
- 2. Diller Pickleball Paddle 2-Player Set
- 3. Diller Pickleball Paddle 4-Player Set
- 4. Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle with Neoprene Cover and Honeycomb Core
- 5. Amazin' Aces Signature Pickleball Paddle
- 6. Amazin' Aces Classic Graphite Pickleball Paddle
- 7. Amazin' Aces Classic Graphite Pickleball Paddle 2-Player Set
- 8. Westop Sports Pickleball Paddles 4-Player Set
- 9. HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle
- 10. Niupipo Pickleball Paddle 2-Player Set
- 11. Niupipo USAPA Pro Graphite 2-Player Set
- 12. Niupipo Explorer Pickleball Paddle
- 13. Niupipo Explorer Pro Pickleball Paddle
- 14. Rally Tyro 2 Pickleball Paddle
- 15. Rally Tyro 2 Pro Pickleball Paddle 2-Player Set
- 16. Rally Meister Pickleball Paddle Deluxe Bundle
- 17. Rally Graphite PX
- 18. Rally Graphite Power 5.0 Pickleball Paddle
- 19. Paddletek Ranger Pickleball Paddle
- 20. Gamma Sports 2.0 Fusion Pickleball Paddle
- Choosing the Right Pickleball Paddle
- Other Considerations
- The Post Pickle Paragraph
OFHQ’s Top Picks
HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle
Head Sports has been manufacturing trusted sporting equipment since 1950, becoming a leader in racquet sports beginning in 1997.
The Head Radical Elite offers an excellent cost-to-quality ratio and is sure to give any player a good experience.
- Delivers excellent performance and satisfying "thock" sound on contact
- Durable and lightweight
- Superb control and balance
- Fine cushioned grip
- Surface spin texture could be more defined
- No storage sleeve included ... for the price, you would think so
Niupipo USAPA Pro Graphite 2-Player Set
Whether you frequently play doubles, want to have a loaner for a friend, or just want a backup paddle, this Niupipo 2-pack has everything (but the court) to get you playing faster than you’ll figure out how to pronounce the name.
- Great bang for the buck
- Attractive design
- Excellent performance
- The sweet spot could be larger
Paddletek Ranger Pickleball Paddle
Lightweight and well-built, the Ranger will ensure that the youngest picklers of your family can have a paddle-tastic time.
- Durable design
- A superior, affordable option for kids
- Versatile features
- Not approved by USAPA
The Line Up: Best Budget Pickleball Paddles of 2022
As with any sport, one can easily part with a considerable sum investing in Pickleball equipment; however, some of us have a family to feed and must proceed with moderation.
A quality pickleball paddle (or even a set!) can be had for less than a financial cardiac arrest.
1. Diller Pickleball Paddle
Green. Diller. Pickle. It just works.
Diller offers some of the most affordable pickleball paddles and they make for the best option for community centers and schools. These wooden paddles come with 7-ply construction to offer enhanced durability. One of the best features of these Diller pickleball paddles is that they’re USAPA-approved, unlike most wood paddles.
They also come with wrist straps and cushioned grips that keep the paddle from slipping out of your hand and beaning your unsuspecting partner in the noggin.
The length of these wooden paddles is 15.5 inches with a 5.5 inches long grip. Not only does it provide you with more reach but it also makes them a great option for people who usually play a singles match.
The only downside of this paddle is that it makes a loud noise while striking a ball. It means it won’t suit you best if you live in an area that has noise restrictions.
Key Features
- 7-ply construction
- 15.5″ total length
- 5.5″ grip
- 7″ width
- Medium grip circumference
- USAPA approved wooden paddle
- Weighs 10 oz
- Durable construction
- Comfortable grip
- Integrated wrist strap
- Powerful delivery
- Offers greater reach
- Rather loud when striking
- A bit on the heavy side
- Heavy, frequent use may cause the handle to deteriorate ... expected at such a LOW price point
2. Diller Pickleball Paddle 2-Player Set
Here’s the same paddle in a two-for!
The package also comes with four light green pickleballs that offer slower flight and higher bounce. The paddles are durable and lightweight, suitable for beginners and casual players.
Key Features
- 7-ply construction
- 5.5″ grip
- 15.5″ total length
- 7″ width
- Weigh 10 oz
- USAPA approved wooden paddle
- Medium grip circumference
- Long-lasting
- Easy to use
- Integrated wrist strap
- Deliver more power
- Offers great reach
- Loud when striking
- A little heavy
- Spirited, frequent competition can cause the handle to come undone
3. Diller Pickleball Paddle 4-Player Set
Now for a two-for times two!
If you plan on playing doubles, the Diller Pickleball Paddle 4-Player Set is for you. The paddles offer the same 7-ply construction for improved durability and feature the same dimensions. You also get six light green balls with the package, making this product great value for money.
Key Features
- 7-ply construction
- Weighs 10 oz
- 7″ width
- 5.5″ grip
- 15.5″ total length
- Medium grip circumference
- USAPA approved wooden paddle
- Durable and long-lasting
- Comfortable grip
- Offers great reach
- Offer a wrist strap
- Deliver more power
- Loud when striking
- A bit heavy
- Intense use can wear on the handle
4. Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle with Neoprene Cover and Honeycomb Core
Taking it up a notch with Upstreet, their Graphite Pickleball Paddle could be your best choice. This product isn’t only lightweight but it’s also very durable and can stand the test of time.
It comes with a polypropylene honeycomb composite core that provides you with a perfect balance of control and power. The core of this pickleball paddle also features shock absorption capabilities allowing you to strike the ball easily.
One of the most notable features of this paddle is its large sweet spot to deal with complex shorts conveniently. The package also includes a neoprene cover that helps you to keep your pickleball paddle protected all the time when you’re not playing.
Key Features
- Polypropylene honeycomb composite core
- Weighs 8.6 oz
- 15.7″ total length
- 7.7″ wide
- Graphite paddle face
- Sweat-absorbent handle
- Offers comfortable grip
- Easy to use
- Performs well while playing complex shots
- Comes with shock absorption capabilities
- Delivers great performance
- None determined
5. Amazin’ Aces Signature Pickleball Paddle
Amazin’ Aces is a relatively new company that started with wooden and composite paddles; but, now has added graphite to the menu.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Amazin’ Aces Signature Pickleball Paddle is its graphite paddle face. Not only does it look good but it also allows you to hit the ball with more power to outperform the opponent.
The paddle also features a lightweight honeycomb polymer core that provides a solid feel during each shot. Another great feature of this product is that it’s USAPA certified, which means you can buy it for professional-level games as well.
The graphite paddle handle has a classic shape for a comfortable in-hand feel and the graphite face and polymer core ensure even weight distribution.
Key Features
- Weighs only 8.2 oz
- USAPA certified for professional players
- 4.7″ grip
- 15.7″ total length
- Honeycomb polymer core
- Graphite paddle face
- Offers a classic design for better grip
- A great option for beginners
- Offers excellent control and stability
- Easy to use
- Value for money
- The handle is a tad on the short side
6. Amazin’ Aces Classic Graphite Pickleball Paddle
The Amazin’ Aces Classic Graphite Paddle, as the name suggests, comes with a graphite face and ensures improved control. It’s one of the most affordable and best graphite paddles available in the market that comes in multiple colors.
The paddle also features a low-profile edge guard that helps you protect the surface of your graphite paddle. The rougher texture of the paddle provides you with greater control while hitting the ball.
It’s important to note that most cheap pickleball paddles are made of wood and the ones that come with graphite build are expensive. However, that’s not the case with the Amazin’ Aces Classic Graphite Paddle. On the downside, the paddle weighs 9.2 ounces which is heavier than most paddles.
Key Features
- Weighs 9.2 oz
- 4.7″ grip length
- 15.7″ total length
- Polypropylene core
- Graphite surface
- Durable build
- Low profile edge guard
- Great for beginners
- Not approved by USAPA
- Heavier than many similar graphite paddles
- Not a good option for professional competition
7. Amazin’ Aces Classic Graphite Pickleball Paddle 2-Player Set
The Amazin’ Aces Classic Graphite Pickleball Paddle 2-Player Set features the same product that we have discussed above but with twice the pickle for your buck!
The package also includes four yellow balls and a mesh pickleball bag. How thoughtful!
Key Features
- Weighs 9.2 oz
- 15.7″ total length
- 4.7″ grip
- Graphite surface
- Polypropylene core
- Great for beginners
- Durable build
- Low profile edge guard
- Not approved by USAPA
8. Westop Sports Pickleball Paddles 4-Player Set
We’ve included this one in the interest of those just trying out the sport who may not quite be ready for a total commitment to the game.
The Westop Sports Pickleball Paddles 4-Player Set includes four wood paddles, 2 convenient storage bags, and eight balls. It’s one of the best deals on wood paddles available in the market. If you accidentally break one paddle, you’ll have three more.
The first thing that you’ll notice about this wood paddle is that it’s lighter than most wooden paddles. The body of the paddle is also large which provides you with more surface to make contact with the ball. In addition, the paddle features a premium quality paddle grip to control each shot efficiently.
Key Features
- Weighs 9 oz
- 16″ total length
- 5″ grip
- 8″ width
- Wood construction
- Lighter paddles than more wooden products
- Come with a large body
- Offer quality grip
- Extremely affordable
- Durability is questionable ... not recommended for frequent, high-intensity competition
9. HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle
If you’re an experienced pickleball player and need a highly-quality paddle, the HEAD Radical Elite could be your best budget option. The Head paddle features a fiberglass hitting surface, which is most suitable for competitive players, unlike others in its price bracket.
Not only does this fiberglass paddle allow you to outperform your opponents but it also helps you improve your overall pickleball skills. The HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle also features a polypropylene honeycomb core that minimizes the risk of accidental fatigue and injury.
Key Features
- Weighs 8.1 oz
- 7.8″ width
- 16″ total length
- Polypropylene honeycomb core
- Fiberglass face
- Delivers excellent performance and satisfying "thock" sound on contact
- Durable and lightweight
- Superb control and balance
- Fine cushioned grip
- Surface spin texture could be more defined
- No storage sleeve included ... for the price, you would think so
10. Niupipo Pickleball Paddle 2-Player Set
Niupipo (I know, I laughed too!) is a popular pickleball paddle company that offers durable and quality products and the Niupipo graphite Pickleball Paddle 2-Player Set is no exception. It’s a USAPA-certified product, making it suitable for professionals and rookie players alike.
The Niupipo Pickleball Paddle also comes with a durable graphite carbon fiber paddle face that allows you to spin the ball easily. It also features a honeycomb composite core and edge guard to deliver great performance and keep the paddle safe.
Quirky name; serious pickle paddle.
Key Features
- Honeycomb composite core
- Weighs 8 oz
- Graphite carbon fiber face
- 7.8″ width
- Edge guard
- 15.5″ long
- Neoprene storage sleeves
- Stitched grip
- A single package with 2 paddles
- Great construction
- Attractive design
- Comfortable grip
- Suitable for both beginners and professionals
- USAPA approved pickleball paddle
- The sweet spot could be bigger
11. Niupipo USAPA Pro Graphite 2-Player Set
The Niupipo USAPA Pro Graphite 2-Player Set is yet another set by Niupipo that comes with two paddles and offers great performance. It’s also USAPA-approved and will suit you if you need a pro-level pickleball paddle.
The Niupipo USAPA Pro is a graphite pickleball paddle that comes with a polymer honeycomb core for improved strength. The durable paddle face and strong build not only allow this product to stand the test of time but these features also ensure improved performance. Lastly, the package includes four balls and a storage bag.
Key Features
- Weighs 8 oz
- 15.9″ total length
- 7.8″ wide
- Polypropylene honeycomb core
- Graphite paddle face
- Great bang for the buck
- Attractive design
- Excellent performance
- The sweet spot could be larger
12. Niupipo Explorer Pickleball Paddle
Introducing one of Nuipipo’s flagship paddles.
An exceptionally made paddle that offers exceptional ball control with enhanced durability and strength, this paddle comes with a polypropylene honeycomb core that makes it harder and denser than most paddles.
The Niupipo Explorer is also covered with a fiberglass surface that greatly reduces the ball deflection while playing. If you prefer an advanced paddle, take the Explorer for a spin!
Key Features
- Polypropylene honeycomb core
- Fiberglass face
- Weighs 8.1 oz.
- 7.8″ width
- 15.8″ overall length
- USAPA Approved
- Lightweight and durable
- Delivers great performance
- Excellent cost-to-quality ratio
- None determined
13. Niupipo Explorer Pro Pickleball Paddle
If you need a pro-level pickleball paddle that’s manufactured to meet all the USA standards including design, hardness, bounce, weight, size, surface, and core material, the Niupipo Explorer Pro Pickleball Paddle is what you need.
It’s one of the preferred pickleball paddles for the PPA Tour, APP Tour, US Open, and World Pickleball Championship. This pickleball paddle is designed by Frank Anthony Davis, a professional pickler, and it’s used by national champions including Ignacio De Elía and Vivienne David.
The Niupipo Explorer Pro is made of graphite carbon fiber that provides you with better control while hitting the ball. It features a polypropylene honeycomb core to ensure durability and power and deliver exceptional performance.
Key Features
- Graphite carbon fiber surface
- Polypropylene honeycomb core
- Weighs 8 oz
- 15.9″ overall length
- 7.8″ wide
- Pro-level pickleball paddle quality and design
- Offers exceptional performance
- Designed and used by professionals
- Durable and lightweight
- None determined
14. Rally Tyro 2 Pickleball Paddle
The Rally Tyro 2 is a medium-weight paddle that comes with the standard paddle dimensions and boasts USAPA approval. Additionally, the honeycomb core of this decent paddle is made of polypropylene which ensures good performance.
It’s one of the best cheap pickleball paddles under 50 dollars and You can use it for both casual and competitive games. On the downside, the Rally Tyro 2 comes with a small grip (only 4 inches), which makes two-handed power hits a bit troublesome.
Key Features
- Weighs 7 oz
- 14.2″ overall length
- 6.1″ wide
- Polypropylene honeycomb core
- Medium-weight paddle
- Comes with vibration dampening technology
- USAPA approved pickleball paddle
- Offers a good balance of control and power
- Unusually small grip
15. Rally Tyro 2 Pro Pickleball Paddle 2-Player Set
The Rally Tyro 2 Pro 2-player set comes with four yellow balls and two pro pickleball paddles. You get high-performance paddles that come with vibration dampening technology and a polypropylene honeycomb core for greater control.
The perforated grip of this versatile paddle is also comfortable and it also features moisture-wicking properties. On the downside, there are more affordable products available that offer similar performance,
Key Features
- Feature polypropylene honeycomb core
- Weighs 8 ounces
- 15.5 inches long
- 7.8 inches wide
- Deliver great performance
- Comes with an even face texture for consistent ball spin
- Suitable for beginners and intermediate level players
- A tad pricey
16. Rally Meister Pickleball Paddle Deluxe Bundle
The Rally Meister Pickleball Paddle is a Deluxe Bundle of inexpensive wooden paddles. It offers six balls and four paddles and costs less than 50 dollars. If you’re looking for affordable paddles then you can’t go wrong with this product.
These wood paddles offer decent performance and we won’t recommend you use them for intense play. When it comes to grip the Rally Meister paddle stands out from the competition.
Not only is it comfortable; but, also comes with a wrist strap preventing one from beaning one’s opponent accidentally.
Key Features
- 7-ply wood construction
- Weigh 10 oz.
- 7″ width
- 15.5″ total length
- 5.5″ grip
- Affordable wood paddles
- Offer decent performance
- Suitable for beginners and casual games
- Heavy
- The paddle surface could be wider
17. Rally Graphite PX
The Graphite PX pickleball paddle comes with a honeycomb composite polymer core and textured graphite face. It also offers a control edge for better balance and the carbon face offers great ball placement and spin.
It’s an affordable paddle that’s also USAPA-approved that you can use for both competitive and casual games.
Key Features
- Honeycomb composite polymer core
- Weighs 8 oz.
- 15.6″ total length
- 18.1″ width
- Textured graphite face material
- Impressive performance
- Large sweet spot
- Integrated edge guard
- Affordably priced given the quality
- Doesn’t come with a cover or any other accessory
18. Rally Graphite Power 5.0 Pickleball Paddle
The Rally Power 5.0 is a powerful graphite pickleball paddle that comes with a larger sweet spot. It’s a USAPA-approved paddle that features a graphite polymer hybrid face for more power. The paddle features a quad-layer design and a polymer honeycomb core to control every single shot effectively.
Key Features
- Features polymer honeycomb core
- Comes with a quad-layer design and graphite polymer hybrid face
- Weighs 7.9 ounces
- 15.7 inches long
- 8.1 inches wide
- 4.8″ grip
- Quiet paddle
- Smooth and consistent performance
- Suits professionals and beginners
- The grip could be longer
19. Paddletek Ranger Pickleball Paddle
Having trouble finding a suitable paddle for the kiddos? Meet the Ranger!
Sorry, not Chuck Norris.
The first paddle that’s specially designed for young pickleball players 12 years and younger, this lightweight paddle comes with a vinyl surface and polypropylene core and is excellent for young picklers-in-training!
Key Features
- Vinyl surface and a polypropylene core
- Weighs only 6.5 oz.
- 15.5″ overall length
- 5″ grip
- 8″ width
- Durable design
- A superior, affordable option for kids
- Versatile features
- Not approved by USAPA
20. Gamma Sports 2.0 Fusion Pickleball Paddle
It’s hard not to call the 2.0 Fusion the best option for a beginner or intermediate player. It’s constructed with an aramid honeycomb core, honeycomb cushioned grip, and extra-wide face to help you improve your skills.
The best feature of this product is that it makes it easier to redirect and control the ball as compared to other paddles.
Key Features
- Aramid honeycomb core and honeycomb cushioned grip
- Weighs 8 oz
- 15.7″ overall length
- 8″ width
- Edgeless construction
- Smart design
- Meets USAPA specifications
- Nice cushioned grip
- The sweet spot could be larger
Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.
Download The FREE Guide NowChoosing the Right Pickleball Paddle
What makes a good pickle paddle? We argue that you don’t have to get too technical when you’re just starting out; but, to each his own.
If you have aspirations of going pro or just enjoy being an informed casual pickler, here are some topics to wrap your brain around.
Paddle Core Materials
The paddle core works as the backbone of any pickleball paddle. It affects weight and the behavior of the ball on contact, taking advantage of a honeycomb-style construction to provide lots of strength and not so much weight.
Helpful Tip: wooden paddles are an exception to this as they are constructed of wood all the way through.
Polypropylene Core – The Middle Road
Polypropylene core paddles are becoming increasingly popular because this material is powerful and lightweight, making it the most common option for the general player, providing a happy medium between the following two core options.
Moreover, it doesn’t make a loud noise when you hit the ball with it.
Nomex Core – Heavy and Powerful
Nomex was the very first material that was used to make composite paddles. It’s made of a material (that looks similar to cardboard) dipped in a resin to increase its hardness. Paddles with this core make a loud noise while striking and deliver a powerful hit making it ideal for … well, power-hitters.
Aluminum Core – Light and Feathery
The aluminum core is softer than Nomex but harder than polypropylene. They’re expensive paddles but also the most durable ones and suit serious players the best.
While aluminum delivers considerably less power, it is the preferred option for players who rely more on control and finesse than explosive power shots.
Aluminum is not a popular core material for most experienced players.
Pickleball Paddle Surface Materials
The material comprising the surface of a pickleball paddle radically affects its performance, especially in the hands of a seasoned pickler.
Regardless of the main material, paddles are usually equipped with a surface texture that allows the skilled pickler to apply spin to the ball on contact.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is essentially a glass mesh that’s coated with a resin to lock it into place. It is known for its durability, holding up well under the strain of constant use.
Fiberglass paddles are unique in that they offer more pop/power and less control while still being relatively lightweight.
Graphite
Graphite pickleball paddles are the lightest ones and are known for their responsiveness … and higher price. These paddles are very durable and typically used by serious or professional players.
Wood
The wooden paddles are the least expensive ones rarely used by serious or professional players. Beginners are usually recommended to use wood paddles because of their low cost.
Other Considerations
You should also consider the following factors other than the materials while making your buying decision.
Paddle Weight
Heavier paddles are more suitable to play more powerful shots whereas a lighter paddle helps you with control. It’s a matter of personal preferences and we recommend you go with the one that suits your playing style.
Paddle and Grip Size
The overall length of pickleball paddles ranges from 15.5 – 17″. Widths from 7 – 8.5″ and grips from 4 – 5.5″ are available.
Experience will guide you toward the size that is best for you.
Deflection
Deflection refers to the rigidity of your pickleball paddle which should be such that there is no “trampoline effect” (similar to that of a stringed racquet disallowed by the USAPA).
Basically, paddles that generate more-than-recommended power with less effort provide less precision and control.
Durability
The type core and quality of the material are important but the overall sturdiness of a paddle also counts. You should go with a sturdy product offered by a reputable brand so that it can stay with you for years to come.
While we recommended some ultra-low-cost options, we advise that you be wary of these and establish realistic expectations.
Edge Guard
This feature keeps the edge of your pickleball paddle safe from chip damage when your swing grazes the court surface or comes into contact with anything else.
However, keep in mind that an edge guard can add up to the overall weight of your paddle.
Sound
Paddles made of wood and Nomex make a loud noise when you hit the ball. This can be distracting or just plain obnoxious if you’re playing near homes or in a park around others.
Price
The name of this post’s game, the price can be a deceptive point to hinge a decision on. If you go dirt cheap, read up on warranties and user reviews. Sometimes, it’s best to fork out a little more.
A paddle that saved you money but breaks in the middle of a match puts a damper on a good time.
The Post Pickle Paragraph
Picking the perfect pickle paddle permits the pickle player to perform perfect plays packed with plenty of power hits and persistent pops scoring a plethora of points while pounding their poor opponents perniciously into the …
… um … peanuckle?
I ran out of P words.
Now, get out there!
Joshua Davis
Being outdoors is freedom! Being outdoors with my wife and two boys is LIVING! Whether in my backyard or getting lost in a National Park, there’s nothing I’d rather do than explore, discover, and experience the paradise that surrounds us. Give me my family, a backpack, and a trail and my life is full!Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.
Download The FREE Guide Now