Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners and Pros: Top Picks in 2023

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Pickleball is a sport that has gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It’s a fun and social game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. One of the most important pieces of equipment in pickleball is the paddle. A good pickleball paddle can make a significant difference in your game, helping you to hit the ball more accurately and with more power.

When looking for the best pickleball paddle, there are several factors to consider. The first is the material of the paddle. Paddles can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, composite, and graphite. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs.

Another important factor to consider is the weight of the paddle. A heavier paddle can give you more power, but it can also be more challenging to maneuver. A lighter paddle, on the other hand, can be easier to control but may not provide as much power.

We spent hours researching and testing various pickleball paddles to identify the ones that offer the best combination of power, control, and maneuverability. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best pickleball paddles on the market.

Best Pickleball Paddles

We have researched and tested various pickleball paddles to come up with a list of the best ones available on Amazon. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, a good pickleball paddle can make a significant difference in your game. Our list includes paddles that are durable, lightweight, and offer excellent control and power. So, without further ado, here are the top pickleball paddles that you should consider purchasing.

ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle

We highly recommend the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle for any player looking for a medium-weight graphite paddle with amazing ball control.

Pros

• Mimics the handle shape of a tennis racket, making it comfortable to use and providing great spin and control during play.
• The nomex honeycomb core gives players superior feel of the ball, making it perfect for those striving for amazing ball control of a nomex paddle in a medium-weight graphite paddle.
• The paddle is USAPA/USA Pickleball approved, meeting all official tournament play requirements.

Cons

• Some players may find the handle to be too thin for their liking.
• The paddle may not have enough power for more advanced players who prefer a heavier paddle.
• The price point may be too high for some players on a budget.

We were impressed with the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle’s widebody shape, which provides a large sweet spot that’s great for beginner through advanced level players. The graphite face and nomex core give players superior feel of the ball, making it perfect for those striving for amazing ball control of a nomex paddle in a medium-weight graphite paddle. We also appreciated the paddle’s tennis handle shape, which mimics the shape of a table tennis racket and provides great spin and control during play.

The ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is perfect for any player that is looking for the outstanding ball control of a nomex paddle in a medium-weight graphite paddle. The paddle’s total weight of 7.5-8.2 ounces strikes a perfect balance between power and speed. We also liked that the paddle is USAPA/USA Pickleball approved, meeting all official tournament play requirements.

Overall, we highly recommend the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle for any player looking for a medium-weight graphite paddle with amazing ball control. While some players may find the handle to be too thin for their liking and the price point may be too high for some players on a budget, the paddle’s widebody shape, graphite face, and nomex core make it a great choice for beginner through advanced level players.

VINSGUIR VIENTO X23 Pickleball Paddle

If you’re looking for a professional-level pickleball paddle that’s USA Pickleball approved, the VINSGUIR VIENTO X23 is a great option. With its unique design and innovative features, it’s a great choice for both novice and professional players.

Pros

• The RTL Textured Surface Technology creates optimal spin and impressive power.
• The multi-layer materials offer reduced vibration and unparalleled control.
• The larger sweet spot and elongated handle make it easier to hit difficult shots and outplay your opponents.

Cons

• The paddle may be too lightweight for some players.
• The perforated ridge grip may not be comfortable for players with larger hands.
• The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the VINSGUIR VIENTO X23 Pickleball Paddle, and we were impressed with its performance. The paddle’s RTL Textured Surface Technology creates a highly textured surface that allows for optimal spin and impressive power. We were able to hit some impressive shots with this paddle that we weren’t able to achieve with other paddles we’ve used in the past.

In addition to its impressive surface technology, the VIENTO X23 also features multi-layer materials that offer reduced vibration and unparalleled control. We were able to hit difficult shots with ease and felt confident in our ability to outplay our opponents. The larger sweet spot and elongated handle also made it easier to hit difficult shots and provided ample reach for two-handed shots.

While we were impressed with the VIENTO X23, there were a few drawbacks that we noticed. The paddle may be too lightweight for some players, and the perforated ridge grip may not be comfortable for players with larger hands. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some other options on the market.

Overall, we would recommend the VINSGUIR VIENTO X23 Pickleball Paddle to anyone looking for a professional-level paddle that’s USA Pickleball approved. Its innovative features and unique design make it a great choice for both novice and professional players.

VINSGUIR Pickleball Paddle Set

If you’re looking for a pickleball paddle set that’s approved by USA Pickleball and delivers sharp, powerful returns, then the VINSGUIR Pickleball Paddle Set is a great option.

Pros

• The polymer honeycomb core and fiberglass finish provide power-boosting material for sharp, powerful returns.
• The ridged perforated grips fit comfortably between your fingers for a comfortable, ergonomic handle.
• The wider surface opens up a massive sweet spot to smack the ball, perfect for beginners.

Cons

• The paddle is lightweight, which may take some getting used to for players who prefer heavier paddles.
• Some users may prefer a longer handle for a more comfortable grip.
• The carrying case may not be as durable as the paddles.

We recently tried out the VINSGUIR Pickleball Paddle Set, and we were impressed with the quality and performance of the paddles. The polymer honeycomb core and fiberglass finish provide a power-boosting material that delivers sharp, powerful returns. The honeycomb core also dampens vibrations, ensuring a clean feel on each shot. We loved the premium quality fiberglass surface that allowed us to add some wicked spin to the ball, taking our game to the next level.

The ridged perforated grips fit comfortably between our fingers, making for a comfortable, ergonomic handle. The ideal length of 4.8″ offered a solid grip on the paddle, and the anti-skid, wear & tear-resistant material increased our chances of success. We also appreciated the wider surface that opened up a massive sweet spot to smack the ball, perfect for beginners.

While the paddle is lightweight, which may take some getting used to for players who prefer heavier paddles, it also delivers better maneuverability and generates more head speed. The durable edge guard protects the paddle from scrapes and scratches and prolongs its life. However, some users may prefer a longer handle for a more comfortable grip.

Overall, we would highly recommend the VINSGUIR Pickleball Paddle Set for both beginners and pros. It comes with all the necessary equipment parts to outfit a pickleball court, making it an ideal gift for friends and family.

Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set of 2

If you’re looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle with excellent power and control, then Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set of 2 is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The rough-textured graphite surface provides excellent spin.
• The cushioned perforated contour grip ensures a secure grip even in the most clutch moments.
• The lightweight build and well-balanced design make it easy to react quickly at the net.

Cons

• Some players might find it too heavy.
• The sweet spot is not as large as some other paddles.
• The low-profile edge guard might not provide enough protection for some players.

We were impressed with the Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set of 2. The proprietary polymer technology and premium graphite face provide an excellent balance of power and control. The specialized rough-textured surface ensures an unbeatable spin, and the large sweet spot makes it easier to hit the ball.

The cushioned perforated contour grip is comfortable and ensures a secure grip, even when your hands are sweaty. The minutely raised, cushioned ribs in a spiral contour provide precision grip and maneuverability. The perforated surface wicks away sweat for optimum traction and comfort during play.

The lightweight build and well-balanced design make it easy to react quickly at the net. It weighs approximately 7.8 oz., providing quick reaction time at the net. The specialized rough-textured surface also ensures an unbeatable spin, making it easier to hit the ball with power and precision.

While some players might find it too heavy, we found it to be well-balanced and easy to handle. The sweet spot is not as large as some other paddles, but it’s still large enough to make it easier to hit the ball. The low-profile edge guard might not provide enough protection for some players, but it’s slim enough to ensure plenty of surface area and make it more forgiving of mishits.

Overall, the Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set of 2 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle with excellent power and control. It’s also a perfect gift for family and friends who love pickleball.

niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set

We highly recommend the niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set for anyone looking to improve their game with a high-quality paddle set.

Pros

• USAPA approved for sanctioned tournament play
• Improved strength with honeycomb core and carbon fiber construction
• Ideal balance with graphite carbon fiber face and honeycomb composition

Cons

• Some players may prefer a heavier paddle
• Grip may not be suitable for players with larger hands
• Bag included in set may not be the highest quality

We were impressed with the niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set’s USAPA approval, meaning it is suitable for sanctioned tournament play. The honeycomb core and carbon fiber construction provide improved strength and energy for spin shots. The graphite carbon fiber face and honeycomb composition create an ideal balance of strength and stiffness for better control and power hitting.

While some players may prefer a heavier paddle, we found the niupipo set to be surprisingly lightweight with a comfortable grip. However, players with larger hands may find the grip size to be too small. The included bag is a nice touch, but may not be the highest quality.

Overall, the niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set is a great choice for players looking to step up their game with a high-quality paddle set.

MTEN Pickleball Paddles

If you’re looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle set, we highly recommend the MTEN Pickleball Paddles. They are USAPA approved and come with a fiberglass surface and polypropylene honeycomb core technology that provides exceptional power and control. The comfortable ergonomic grip is perforated, sweat absorbent, and cushioned, making it easier to hold the paddle for extended periods.

Pros

• USAPA approved
• Unique fiberglass and polypropylene honeycomb core technology
• Comfortable ergonomic grip

Cons

• Slightly heavier than some other paddles in the market
• Not as affordable as some other options
• Some users may prefer a smaller grip size

The wide pickleball racket area provides more sweet spots for the perfect shot, which makes it ideal for beginners, intermediates, and professional players. The paddle weighs between 7.78 – 7.8 oz, which puts it in the medium weight range. The set comes with two paddles, four outdoor pickle balls, one carry bag, and two grip tapes, making it a complete set for you and a friend.

We found that the MTEN Pickleball Paddles are easy to use and provide excellent performance. The fiberglass surface provides excellent rotational performance, and the polypropylene honeycomb technology reduces vibration and achieves stable speed, resulting in optimal ball strike feel. The 4.57″ grip circumference allows enough room for maximum wrist snap for power and spin and range of motion in your wrist.

Overall, the MTEN Pickleball Paddles are a great investment for anyone looking for a high-quality set that will last them for years to come. The price may be a bit higher than some other options, but the quality and performance make it worth it.

HANISNA Factor Pickleball Paddle

If you’re looking for a pickleball paddle that offers a great balance of power and control, the HANISNA Factor Pickleball Paddle is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The carbon fiber grit surface creates a unique texture that enhances durability and control.
• The enhanced honeycomb core maximizes bounce consistency and maintains a constant speed.
• The ultra-cushion grip offers a comfortable and sweat-absorbent grip that fits multiple hand shapes.

Cons

• The sweet spot is relatively small, which could be challenging for some players.
• The paddle may feel a bit heavy for some players, especially those who prefer lighter paddles.
• The off-center hits may feel unbalanced, making it difficult to control the ball.

We’ve been playing with the HANISNA Factor Pickleball Paddle for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The carbon fiber grit surface creates a unique texture that provides excellent durability and control, while the enhanced honeycomb core maximizes bounce consistency and maintains a constant speed. The ultra-cushion grip is also a nice touch, providing a comfortable and sweat-absorbent grip that fits multiple hand shapes.

One thing to keep in mind is that the sweet spot is relatively small, which could be challenging for some players. Additionally, the paddle may feel a bit heavy for some players, especially those who prefer lighter paddles. Finally, the off-center hits may feel unbalanced, making it difficult to control the ball.

Overall, we think the HANISNA Factor Pickleball Paddle is a great option for players looking for a paddle that offers a great balance of power and control. If you’re willing to work on your technique and adjust to the sweet spot and weight of the paddle, you’ll likely find that it’s a great choice for your game.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best pickleball paddle, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the right one for you. In this buying guide, we will discuss some of the key features to look for when shopping for a pickleball paddle.

First and foremost, you’ll want to consider the weight of the paddle. Paddles can range in weight from 6 to 14 ounces, and the weight can affect your swing speed and control. A lighter paddle may be easier to maneuver, but a heavier paddle may provide more power. It’s important to find a weight that feels comfortable in your hand and allows you to play your best game.

Another important factor to consider is the grip size of the paddle. A grip that is too small or too large can affect your ability to control the paddle and can lead to discomfort or injury. It’s important to find a grip size that feels comfortable in your hand and allows you to maintain a secure grip on the paddle.

The material of the paddle is also something to consider. Most paddles are made of either wood, composite, or graphite. Wood paddles tend to be less expensive but may not last as long as composite or graphite paddles. Composite and graphite paddles tend to be more durable and provide better performance, but they can also be more expensive.

Finally, you’ll want to consider the shape and size of the paddle. The shape and size can affect your ability to hit the ball with precision and power. A wider paddle may provide a larger sweet spot, while a narrower paddle may provide more control. It’s important to find a paddle shape and size that feels comfortable in your hand and allows you to play your best game.

In summary, when choosing the best pickleball paddle, consider the weight, grip size, material, and shape/size of the paddle. By taking these factors into account, you can find a paddle that feels comfortable in your hand and allows you to play your best game.