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We Found the 10 Best Portable Basketball Hoops for Indoor and Outdoor Play

We researched and tested picks from Spalding, Franklin Sports, and more

By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Updated on November 18, 2024
Medically reviewed
Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more.
by Jonathan Valdez, RDN, CDCES, CPT
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Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more.
by Rich Scherr
Spalding Momentous EZ Assembly Acrylic Portable Basketball Hoop outdoors in front of brick building

Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin

Black Friday Deals

Looking to elevate your basketball game right from your own backyard? Whether you're honing your jump shot, engaging in family fun, or simply unwinding, the best portable basketball hoops offer the convenience of home-based play. Unlike wall-mounted or in-ground hoops, all you need for a portable basketball hoop is some space to play. Portable hoops are typically less expensive, easier to move around, and adjustable, making the game more accessible—especially for younger players.

To find the best options on the market, we first consulted basketball coaches and other experts in the field for their insight into what buyers should look for in a quality portable basketball hoop. Then, we researched over 30 hoops from 10 trusted brands to select the best ones. We also tested our best overall hoop in our driveway, playing with the whole family several times a week for over a month. We evaluated it for setup, ease of use, quality, and overall value.

Verywell Fit FYI

Our best overall pick is popular and often goes out of stock on Amazon, but you can also get it at Dick's Sporting Goods.

Pros

  • Hand-crank adjustment

  • Easy assembly in 30 minutes

  • Spring-loaded breakaway rim

Cons

  • More expensive than others on our list

Key Specs

Backboard Material: Acrylic | Frame Material: Steel with aluminum trim | Height: 8 to 10 feet | Backboard Size: 54 inches

Who It's For

Best if you want a professional-grade hoop for casual and game play.

Why We Love It

If you're looking for a portable hoop that offers a professional game experience in your driveway, we recommend Spalding’s Momentous EZ Assembly Outdoor Hoop as our top pick. We actually tested this hoop at home, and it encouraged our tester's son to get outside outside to practice shots, dribbles, and dunks. This hoop has a 54-inch clear acrylic backboard, and assembly doesn't take long, so you can start playing almost immediately. All the assembly tools you need are included, and we found the setup instructions to be clear and easy to understand.

This hoop easily adjusts from 8 to 10 feet with a crank handle. Even kids can do it with no problem. The base fills with 36 gallons of water or sand to stabilize the hoop. We filled ours with water and it remained solid and stable, not moving at all. It's also easy to drain some water and move it on its front wheels if necessary. The steel frame makes this hoop durable and sturdy. It never moves when we play, even during a game with many people. It has a spring-loaded breakaway rim for safety.

Potential Flaws

  • It's more expensive than others on our list, but we think it's well worth the higher price point for the professional-grade durability and stability.

Most Valuable Insight

"It's built to last. So far, it has been worth every penny and then some because every time my kid, who's 12, has friends over, they go outside and play ball, which has never happened before. And it has encouraged him to practice independently and dribble and shoot." —Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester

  • Spalding Momentous EZ Assembly Acrylic Portable Basketball Hoop
    PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin
  • Spalding Momentous EZ Assembly Acrylic Portable Basketball Hoop
    PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin
  • Spalding Momentous EZ Assembly Acrylic Portable Basketball Hoop
    PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin
  • Spalding Momentous EZ Assembly Acrylic Portable Basketball Hoop
    PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin
  • Spalding Momentous EZ Assembly Acrylic Portable Basketball Hoop
    PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin
  • Spalding Momentous EZ Assembly Acrylic Portable Basketball Hoop
    PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin
Pros

  • Adjustable height

  • Easy to assemble

  • Fade-resistant backboard

Cons

  • Some may prefer a larger backboard

Key Specs

Backboard Material: High-density polyethylene | Frame Material: Powder-coated steel | Height: 7.5 to 10 feet | Backboard Size: 44 inches

Who It's For

Best for families who want to spend quality play time together without breaking the bank.

Why We Love It

Many high-quality portable basketball systems come with a high price tag, but there are still deals to be found. Lifetime is a trusted manufacturer of portable hoops, and Lifetime's Adjustable Hoop is a budget-friendly option we recommend for driveway play. It features a durable 44-inch backboard made from high-density polyethylene that’s resistant to fading, chipping, and cracking.

Fun for the entire family, the system has a telescoping pole that easily adjusts the rim height from 7.5 to 10.5 feet in 6-inch increments (no tools required). The 27-gallon base fills with water or sand for a stable foundation, yet it’s still easy to move to a different spot when necessary. A solid, well-supported steel rim and a weather-resistant nylon net enhance the hoop’s durability.

Potential Flaws

  • The backboard is a bit smaller than other options on our list, so we don't recommend this for super serious game play.
Pros

  • Five-year limited warranty

  • Pro-style flex rim

  • Durable backboard

Cons

  • Assembly may not be easy for one person

  • Large base won’t fit in tight spaces

Key Specs

Backboard Material: Polycarbonate | Frame Material: Powder-coated steel | Height: 7.5 to 10 feet | Backboard Size: 50 or 54 inches

Who It's For

Best if you want an indoor and outdoor hoop that's easily adjustable to fit all players' shooting styles.

Why We Love It

If you want the look and feel of an in-ground system with the flexibility of a portable one, we recommend the Silverback NXT Hoop. A pro-flex rim and an extremely stable base allow you to practice your moves indoors or out. A durable, polycarbonate backboard provides arena-style performance and clear views as you play—just don't forget to pair it with one of our best basketballs.

The rim height is adjustable from 7.5 to 10 feet in 6-inch increments, so players of all ages and abilities can use it for training and competitive play. And we like that moving the hoop is easy and painless, thanks to the system’s convenient wheelbarrow design.

Potential Flaws

  • This hoop may be tough to assemble by yourself, and the large base means you’ll need to find a spot with plenty of room.
Pros

  • Easy to assemble

  • Good for tight spaces

  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Some may prefer a larger backboard

  • Not ideal for dunking

Key Specs

Backboard Material: Polycarbonate | Frame Material: Polyethylene | Height: 7.5 to 10 feet | Backboard Size: 44 inches

Who It's For

Best if your family and friends want to take light gameplay to the driveway.

Why We Love It

For a hoop that doesn’t take up a lot of space and can be easily moved into the garage when necessary, we recommend Lifetime's 1269 Portable Basketball System. It features a durable, shatterproof, 44-inch backboard with a professional-looking design and fade-resistant graphics.

The system is simple to assemble, and the three-piece telescopic steel pole lets you easily adjust the height from 7.5 to 10 feet. We also like that the base can be filled with either sand or water and that the transport wheels make it easy and hassle-free to move.

Potential Flaws

  • The smaller backboard and lightweight construction mean this hoop isn’t ideal for slam dunks or intense play.
Pros

  • Ideal for kids and beginners

  • Spring-loaded rim

  • Shatterproof backboard

Cons

  • Not regulation height

Key Specs

Backboard Material: Polycarbonate | Frame Material: Steel | Height: 3.5 to 7 feet | Backboard Size: 33 inches

Who It's For

Best for younger players who are just starting out and need a hoop that's below regulation size.

Why We Love It

We recommend SKLZ's Pro Mini Portable Basketball Hoop for families who are short on space but want to allow kids to practice their skills. Although it doesn’t reach the regulation height of 10 feet, the system’s 3.5-to-7-foot range is ideal for younger players who are new to basketball.

Easy to move, the hoop is flexible enough to use anywhere, including your driveway, poolside, or basement. The durable, shatterproof polycarbonate backboard and spring-loaded rim make it safe for dunking. We love that it offers the look, functionality, and durability of a professional-grade basketball system in a smaller size at a budget-friendly price.

Potential Flaws

  • Keep in mind that this hoop isn't regulation size, and is best for smaller or more casual players.
Pros

  • Durable and stable

  • Allows for dunking

  • Five-year manufacturer warranty

Cons

  • Thinner backboard

Key Specs

Backboard Material: Makrolon polycarbonate | Frame Material: Steel | Height: 7.5 to 10 feet | Backboard Size: 54 inches

Who It's For

Best for growing families and players of most levels.

Why We Love It

Suitable for everything from learn-to-shoot drills to driveway pick-up games, we recommend Lifetime's 71524 XL Hoop for families of basketball enthusiasts. With just one hand, the 18-inch standard steel rim can be easily adjusted from 7.5 to 10 feet, so it grows with kids as they improve.

The durable and weather-resistant backboard combines a thinner, polycarbonate playing surface with a steel frame, and we like the padding along the bottom for added protection. The 4-inch square, powder-coated steel pole offers plenty of stability, and the sturdy base is complete with wheels for easy transport. Unlike some portable hoops, this one is suitable and safe for dunking, thanks to the spring-back mechanism under the rim.

Potential Flaws

  • Since the backboard is slightly thinner than other options, this may not be the sturdiest pick for slam dunks.
Pros

  • Quick and easy setup

  • Allows for dunking

  • UV-resistant backboard

Cons

  • Poolside use only

  • Not adjustable

Key Specs

Backboard Material: Engineered plastic | Frame Material: Engineered plastic | Height: 40 inches | Backboard Size: 31 inches

Who It's For

Best if you have a pool at you're home and want a fun way to play water sports with friends and family.

Why We Love It

For players with a pool, GoSports' Poolside Hoop will help you play while beating the heat. With a durable backboard and rim that are specifically designed for pool play, we recommend this hoop for all water games. The ultra-sturdy, tip-resistant base can be filled with water and is designed to withstand rough play and slam dunks. Made of engineered plastic, we like that this set is built to last and withstand exposure to the sun, rain, and pool water.

Fast and easy to assemble, the hoop can be game-ready from the box in just a few minutes—but keep in mind that it’s not adjustable. The set also includes a ball pump and two water basketballs so that multiple players can shoot simultaneously.

Potential Flaws

  • Since this is a poolside-only hoop, it's not as versatile as others on our list.
  • It's also not adjustable, but most poolside hoops aren't.
Pros

  • Easy to assemble and set up

  • Breakaway steel rim

  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Ball comes deflated

Key Specs

Backboard Material: Shatterproof polycarbonate | Frame Material: Alloy steel | Height: Not listed | Backboard Size: 23 x 16 inches

Who It's For

Best if you want to play indoors, but want a hoop that's durable enough for dunks.

Why We Love It

When the weather turns frosty, it's time to take practicing your three-pointers indoors with this sturdy, over-the-door hoop. SKLZ's Pro Mini Basketball System is easy to assemble and, with a slide-on door mount, sets up in minutes. We like that the thick foam padding protects doors from dents and scratches.

This hoop has a clear polycarbonate shatterproof backboard similar to high-quality outdoor systems. It also comes with a breakaway steel rim that’s safe for dunking. A heavy-duty nylon net adds to the durability, while the replica graphics give it a professional vibe. It even comes with a rubber mini-ball, perfect for swishing and dunking without causing damage.

Potential Flaws

  • We love that this hoop comes with a ball, but you'll need a pump to inflate it.
Pros

  • Budget-friendly

  • Easy setup

  • Protective foam backing

Cons

  • Net is not as durable as other options

  • Backboard can get scratched

Key Specs

Backboard Material: Shatterproof plastic | Frame Material: Steel | Height: Not listed | Backboard Size: 17.75 x 12 inches

Who It's For

Best if you want a mini, ultra-portable hoop to take your games on the go.

Why We Love It

If you want an indoor-use hoop that’s extremely portable, Franklin Sports' Over-the-Door Hoop is perfect for taking on a road trip, bringing to the office, or setting up in a dorm room or home gym. It’s engineered to fit on all regular-sized doors and comes with a half-inch of EVA foam backing to protect surfaces.

The dual-spring, 9-inch metal rim can withstand most dunking contests, while a shatter-resistant backboard and all-steel hardware add to the hoop’s durability. It even comes with a 5-inch rubber basketball, so you’ll be all set to start shooting.

Potential Flaws

  • This hoop isn’t as sturdy as other options on our list, and the backboard may scratch easily. Still, we think it's worth the budget-friendly price for casual play.
Pros

  • Easy-to-use screw jack lift

  • Sturdy

  • Weather-resistant

Cons

  • Assembly may not be easy for one person

  • Heavier than other options

Key Specs

Backboard Material: Acrylic | Frame Material: Steel and aluminum | Height: 7.5 to 10 feet | Backboard Size: 54 or 60 inches

Who It's For

Best if you want a regulation-sized, ultra-durable hoop that can hold up to slam dunks.

Why We Love It

Although hoops with glass backboards mimic the traditional indoor basketball experience, portable hoops with acrylic backboards are typically more affordable and durable. We recommend Spalding’s Screw Jack Portable Basketball System, a sturdy acrylic pick that offers similar performance to a glass backboard system.

The system features a 54- or 60-inch backboard and a breakaway rim that holds up to dunking. The weather-resistant, heavy-duty steel frame is anchored with a sturdy 40-gallon base with two wheels for easy portability. And you can adjust the height from 7.5 to 10 feet with the convenient, easy-to-use screw jack lift system.

Potential Flaws

  • You may need help assembling it, but this hoop’s serious weight means it will stay put for years to come.

What to Look for When Shopping for a Portable Basketball Hoop

  • Backboard Material: Backboards can come in three different materials: glass, acrylic, and polycarbonate. Glass is the professional standard for indoor basketball games; it’s durable, provides great ball bounce, and won't scratch or fade over time. However, it can easily break if hit with rocks, large branches, or other hard materials. Hoops with acrylic backboards are less expensive than glass ones and are usually more resilient. They’re ideal if you're worried about backboard damage. However, acrylic scratches easily, so it won't retain its new look or continue to provide great ball bounce over time. Polycarbonate backboards are also budget-friendly and can be even more durable than acrylic ones. Although the look and feel are similar to acrylic, the material is actually denser and tougher.
  • Durability: For a hoop you can use for years to come, look for one that is made of durable, shatterproof, and weatherproof materials. Adjustability is also a key factor, especially if you’re buying a hoop for young players and want it to last as they grow.
  • Placement: The type and size of the basketball hoop that’s right for you will largely depend on where you want to place it. Before selecting one, ensure you have an area that’s spacious, flat, and paved (if outdoors). Poolside hoops and over-the-door hoops are great options if you’re low on space or want to play indoors.
  • Price: The cost of portable hoops varies based on size, materials, and durability. According to German, portable basketball hoops that play just as well as permanent ones will likely cost you a pretty penny. However, they're worth the investment if you want a high-quality, sturdy hoop that lasts many years. If you’re unsure how much use the hoop will get, you may want to consider a budget-friendlier option with a smaller acrylic backboard.

How We Selected the Best Portable Basketball Hoops

To find the best portable basketball hoops, we researched dozens of hoops from top-rated brands. We looked for the best hoops for different uses, including pool basketball hoops, over-the-door options, and ones designed specifically for kids. We also considered hoops at several different price points. We evaluated dozens of portable basketball hoops from top brands for ease of setup, backboard material, durability, stability, portability, and more.

We also tested our top pick for over a month, playing with the whole family in our driveway multiple times a week. We assessed the hoop for setup, ease of use, quality, and value. We then evaluated it based on our previously mentioned key categories. It earned a perfect score in every category, which led us to select it as our best overall pick.

Our Experts

During our research for this story, we consulted with experts who helped us better understand the different types of basketball hoops and shared tips on how to shop for them effectively.

  • Todd German, basketball coach and director of McCracken Basketball Camps
  • Jason Miller, basketball coach and manager of hoop sales and installation for Breakthrough Basketball

Frequently Asked Questions

What size portable basketball hoop should I get?

Many portable basketball hoops are adjustable from 7.5 to 10 feet, which is a great range that can accommodate kids as they grow and improve their skills. Backboards can range from 44 to 72 inches, which is the regulation size at the professional level. A 44- to 54-inch backboard is a good size for most skill levels and should provide enough space for shooting, rebounding, and practicing other skills.

How much does a portable basketball hoop weigh?

Portable basketball hoops can vary in height and weight, but most range between 55 to 350 pounds, with the average being around 140 pounds. Systems with glass backboards are typically much heavier than those with acrylic or polycarbonate ones.

How do you store a portable basketball hoop?

If you’re not planning to use your portable basketball hoop during cold weather, storing it in a covered area like a garage, shed, or carport is best. If storing your hoop in a covered area isn’t possible, you should lower the rim to the lowest height, cover it with a tarp, and secure it with bungee cords.

How much should a portable basketball hoop cost?

You can expect to pay between $50 to $2,300 for a quality portable basketball hoop. Price will vary depending on the basketball hoop's type, material, and size. Indoor and over-the-door hoops tend to be budget-friendlier, while more durable, outdoor-proof hoops will typically cost you more.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Certified personal trainer, running coach, and fitness writer Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching, testing, and recommending fitness and athletic products. She knows that the right gear and equipment can tremendously improve performance. She started playing basketball in fifth grade and still has a passion for the game, whether she’s cheering in the stands, coaching kids, or playing in her driveway.

1 Source
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Dick’s Sporting Goods. Basketball hoop buying guide.

Christine Luff

By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine knows that the right fitness gear can improve your motivation and workouts. She uses her expertise and experience as a fitness writer and personal trainer to recommend products she can stand behind.

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