We Played for 1,000 Hours to Find the 14 Best Pickleball Paddles for All Levels

Pickleball Paddles We Also Tested 

• We think Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Wood Paddle Set is a great price. However, compared to the others we tested, it felt heavier and less comfortable—causing wrist fatigue after an extended period of time.
• The grip on JOOLA’s Ben Johns Hyperion C2 CFS 14 Pickleball Paddle held up on hot and humid days without slipping out of our sweaty hands. However, it might be difficult for beginner and intermediate players to control the ball until they get used to it.
• HEAD’s Radical Tour Raw EX Pickleball Paddle has a super comfortable grip and feels light in our hands. However, compared to other paddles we tested, its overall performance is just not worth the price. 

What to Know Before You Shop

While many pickleball paddles look similar, they are not all created equal. As you begin to shop for your next pickleball paddle, here are some important things to keep in mind: 

• Power: Power refers to how hard and fast you hit the ball. Intermediate and advanced players who have solid paddle control may want to opt for a heavier paddle made from a fiberglass surface material that delivers extra weight and density for power shots.
• Control: Control is about hitting the ball with precision. Novice and intermediate players should select a lightweight paddle made from a carbon fiber surface material that makes it easier to aim the ball. 
• Spin: When you hit a ball with spin—meaning it rotates as it travels through the air—it can be more difficult for your opponent to hit it back, potentially earning you points. Paddles made with a gritty, textured surface help generate topspin and backspin. 
• Core: The material inside your pickleball paddle, the core, can affect power and control. Typically, the core is made from polymer or polypropylene in a honeycomb chamber that helps limit vibration and distribute energy as you hit the ball.
• Sweet Spot: When you hit a ball with the sweet spot (the middle of your paddle), you get a bouncy pop, more power, and better precision. Some paddles, especially most beginner paddles, are designed with larger sweet spots for easier play. 

What to Look for When Shopping for a Pickleball Paddle

• Materials: When shopping for a pickleball paddle, check out its core and surface materials—choosing the right option for you will depend on your playing style and skill level. Typically, the core is made from a honeycomb polypropylene chamber that helps reduce vibration and distribute energy as the paddle contacts a ball. Surface materials generally include carbon fiber (best for control), fiberglass (best for power), graphite (best for quick shots), and wood. 
• Skill Level: Pickleball paddles are an investment, so choosing a paddle that can evolve with your skills and playing style is an important consideration. If you’re a true beginner, you may want to opt for a light and sturdy paddle, while advanced players can benefit from a strong paddle that encourages optimal power and speed. 
• Playing Style: Are you looking for control? Power? Speed? When selecting a pickleball paddle, it is essential to consider your personal playing style. Carbon fiber paddles are best for control, while fiberglass paddles are great for power. Some paddles are designed for both. 
• Weight: The weight of your pickleball paddle will affect control and power. Lighter paddles are best for control, while heavier paddles can give you more power and speed. 
• Handle Length and Grip: Choosing the right handle length and grip circumference depends on two things: your swing style and hand size. Pickleball paddle handles usually come in a standard length for those with a single-handed backhand swing or a long length for those with a two-handed backhand swing. Grip circumference is typically around 4 inches, but you can find smaller and larger options.
• Surface Area and Shape: Generally, paddles with a larger surface area have a bigger sweet spot, so many players favor them. Just ensure 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.) As for shape, elongated paddles have better reach, but they may have a smaller sweet spot because they are narrower. Commonly used standard-size paddles are a good mix between the two.

How We Tested the Pickleball Paddles

To find the best pickleball paddles on the market, we swung, hit, and volleyed for over 1,000 hours on the courts. In total, we tested 35 pickleball paddles from trusted brands, playing at least eight games with each paddle. When we test pickleball paddles, we evaluate them based on the following key criteria.

• Comfort: If your pickleball paddle is too heavy, gives you blisters, or makes your hands sweat, you won’t enjoy the game. That’s why we assessed each paddle for comfort level: How did the grip feel during gameplay? How did our hands and arms feel after? We prioritize paddles that allow us to comfortably play for hours at a time without any elbow fatigue or strain.
• Grip: The grip’s circumference, length, and material are all important considerations. We first check that each paddle’s grip is sized as described by the manufacturer and whether or not it is suitable for different hand sizes. We also take note of how the material feels: Tacky or slippery? Smooth or textured? Paddles with non-slip grips that absorb sweat and don’t trap heat receive a high score in this category. 
• Durability: Throughout the testing period, we pay attention to how well the paddle holds up after hours of play. We record any signs of wear and tear, like chips, dents, breakage, loose threads, or scratches. We prioritize paddles that look and feel close to new after weeks of testing.
• Control: Control is essential in any racquet sport—whether we're talking about a pickleball, tennis, or padel racket—so we select pickleball paddles that allow for optimal precision. We evaluate how easy or difficult it is to generate power, spin, and accuracy, as well as flip between forehand and backhand swings. We also pay attention to each paddle's weight and how it affects power and maneuverability. 
• Value: After evaluating each paddle over the course of several games, we check its price to determine whether or not it’s worth the purchase—considering each of the previously mentioned criteria. We prioritize paddles that we would personally purchase at the listed price (or for even more). 

Our Experts

We spoke to experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting for this story. Some helped us better understand which key features every pickleball paddle should have, while others provided insights that helped inform our testing process. 

• Beth Bellamy, professional pickleball player and co-founder of the National Pickleball League
• Laurie Coyne, certified pickleball coach at Aqua Lane Pickleball in Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Wayne Dollard, professional pickleball player and founder of Pickleball Magazine and LevelUp Camps
• Laurel Heilman, certified pickleball coach with her own practice in Pittsburgh

Frequently Asked Questions 

How much should you spend on a pickleball paddle?

Most high-quality pickleball paddles will cost between $100 and $180. Less expensive paddles might not be as durable, while more expensive paddles may have high-tech features that beginners and intermediate players don’t need.

What are the most popular pickleball paddles?

Our experts chose Selkirk, Joola, and Engage as some of their favorite brands. Competitive players must choose a USA Pickleball-approved regulation paddle. 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?

Standard paddles are the most common, but larger-faced paddles have become popular as they have a bigger sweet spot for hitting the ball. 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?

Heavier paddles are better for power shots, while lighter paddles are easier to maneuver. Testing paddles of different weights is a great way to find the best fit for your playing style and skill level. 

What is the lifespan 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, three hours per session, your paddle should last for around a year.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Amy Scanlin is a fitness writer, certified group fitness instructor, and pickleball enthusiast who enjoys court time with family and friends. With gear being an essential component of the game, she chooses products based on expert guidance, feedback from our tests, as well as her own experience. As an intermediate player, she looks for paddles with a larger face, that are nicely weighted and are considered reliable and dependable by those who have tried them.