Rapidly growing in popularity, pickleball is an entertaining sport played by almost 5 million people. With that number currently continuing to grow, it isn’t a surprise to see the market for pickleball equipment also growing.
After all, you can’t play pickleball without the right equipment. Arguably the most important piece of equipment needed to play pickleball is a pickleball paddle (see also ‘3 Best Engage Pickleball Paddles You Need In Your Life‘). Without one, you have nothing to hit the ball with.
Unfortunately, finding the best paddle without breaking your budget can be challenging. The market tends to offer up the more expensive paddles. Don’t worry though, we’re here to help those of you trying to stick to a tight budget.
To help, we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best budget pickleball paddles. In today’s article, we’ll share our list with you. We’ll show you what each paddle offers and what you can expect. We’ve even included a useful buyer’s guide to help you choose.
Let’s dive into the list!
1. JP WinLook Pickleball Paddles Set
The first pickleball paddle set on our list comes from JP WinLook. If you’re on the lookout for a reliable, well-made set of paddles at an affordable price, this set could be exactly what you’re looking for.
This premium set comes with three pickleballs, two durable graphite paddles, and a carry bag (see also ‘Best Pickleball Set’).
Perfect for developing your game and improving your skill level, these paddles have a graphite face and a lightweight polymer honeycomb core. We found that these two design features gave the paddles increased control and more power.
To guarantee comfort, JP WinLook has equipped the paddles with a soft grip. This grip is easy to hold, giving you more freedom to play for longer without feeling any discomfort.
The addition of the pickleballs with this set is something we greatly appreciated. Having the two most important pieces of pickleball equipment in one, budget-friendly set is a neat touch.
We must also make a point of mentioning the overall style of these paddles too. The paddles in this set look fantastic. Red and blue in color, you’ll not only perform better, but you’ll also look the part too.
Pros
- Balls included – This set also comes with some pickleballs.
- Stylish – The JP WinLook paddle set looks great.
- Comfortable – You’ll have no problem holding your paddle over prolonged periods of time.
Cons
- Low-quality balls – Some reviews have noted that the balls break easily.
Also available at:
2. Franklin Sports Jet Pickleball Paddle
Featuring an aluminum face and aluminum core, the next pickleball paddle is one of the most affordable paddles we’ve ever seen. Available at an unbelievably reasonable price, this paddle is reliable, durable, easy to use, and well-balanced.
Franklin Sports is one of the top brands in pickleball, therefore it isn’t a surprise to see one of their paddles on this list.
What is nice to see is a top brand selling its products at a fair price. It isn’t uncommon to see the big brand sell their products at an inflated price so that’s something to like about this paddle.
This particular paddle uses a dual-plated aluminum surface which is actually quite rare. Aluminum designs usually make paddles pretty fast, but we didn’t find this paddle that quick.
As a result, it is better suited to players that are already capable of generating some serious power.
When it comes to the overall look of the paddle, it features a sleek turquoise face and a matching turquoise grip handle. It’s not too flashy but still stands out.
Pros
- Top brand – This paddle comes from one of pickleballs top brands.
- Approved – The jet paddle has been approved by USAPA.
- Available in multiple colors – Choose the color you like best.
Cons
- Quite heavy – This paddle is surprisingly heavy.
Next up, we have the radical elite pickleball paddle from Head. The same brand that makes professional standard tennis rackets, Head has put some serious dedication into making top-of-the-range pickleball paddles too.
Selling anything from beginner to pro-level paddles, the radical elite paddle is up there with the best. Despite being called the elite paddle, the radical paddle is ideal for beginners.
With a weight of 8.1 to 8.3 ounces, it is tailor-made for anyone who enjoys a little more power in their swings.
For easier reach, the paddle has a long 16-inch face, whilst the 7 ⅞-inch width of the paddle makes it easier for newbies to connect with the ball.
Another great thing about this simple, yet effective paddle is its fiberglass composite face and honeycomb polymer core.
These two features give the paddle a much smoother design, making the paddle much nicer and more comfortable to use.
When we reviewed this paddle, we were also impressed with the single-piece design.
This is great because it reduces the chances of the paddle breaking in two. This is something that can easily happen with two-piece paddles.
Pros
- Sturdy build – This one-piece paddle is less likely to break.
- Ideal for beginners – Beginners will find the game much easier with this paddle.
- Smooth – The fiberglass face and honeycomb core make your shots much smoother.
Cons
- A little pricier – This paddle costs a bit more than the other paddles on our list.
Also available at: Head.com
Approved by USAPA, the Niupipo pickleball paddle makes this list for a number of reasons. For starters, it’s available at an amazing price. Secondly, it has one of the most exciting designs we’ve seen, and finally, it is made to a very high standard.
Proven in the industry, it is clear to see that Niupipo has put everything they know into this paddle.
The brand has used a graphite face and paired it with a honeycomb core to improve the performance of the paddle, whilst the lightweight nature of the paddle makes it much more comfortable to play with.
The fact this paddle has USAPA approval is also very important. That is because approval gives you permission to play with the paddle competitively.
When we used the Niupipo paddle, it was hard to find any critiques. The paddle has an awesome design and performs excellently.
We also found that the paddle’s wide face made it much easier for us to connect with the ball. This is something most beginners will greatly benefit from.
Pros
- High-quality – The Niupipo paddle is made to a very high standard.
- Lightweight – This paddle only weighs 7.7 ounces.
- Incredible design – This paddle looks incredible.
Cons
- Not suited to pros – This paddle is better suited to beginners and intermediate players.
Also available at: Niupipo.com
The final pickleball paddle on our list is the Ulaoul pickleball paddle set. This is another amazing budget-friendly paddle set that comes with two paddles, pickleballs, and a carry bag.
One of the best things about this set is that the paddles can be used by anyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the sport or have many years of experience, you’ll find the paddles easy and comfortable to use.
Most people love this set for its convenience and high-quality design. Having everything you need in one carry bag makes things so much easier, whilst the paddle’s solid design helps improve your game.
In terms of design, the paddles in this set have an integrated molding carbon fiberglass face and a strong edge guard. Aside from making the paddles easier to use, these two design features ensure long-term durability.
This is then increased with the addition of the lightweight honeycomb polymer core. The non-slip grip is great too, enhancing the control and power you have over the paddle and ball.
Pros
- Durable – This paddle set is made to last.
- Complete set – The set comes with two paddles and some pickleballs.
- Great value for money – You easily get your money’s worth with this paddle set.
Cons
- Limited design options – Some more color and style options would be nice.
Buyer’s Guide
Now you’ve seen our list of the best budget pickleball paddles, it’s time to start thinking about what you need and expect from the paddle you choose.
This might seem easy, but there are actually a number of very important things to consider.
With that being said, we’ve put together this buyer’s guide. In this buyer’s guide, you’ll find the key factors that will impact your final decision when it comes to picking the best paddle.
By taking each factor into account, you can avoid any nasty surprises and pick the best paddle for you.
Price
If you’re in the market for the best budget-friendly pickleball paddles, the chances are the price is the most important factor impacting your decision. Therefore, it is extremely important that you get it right.
The last thing you want to do is waste money by picking an overpriced paddle that doesn’t offer anything more than more affordable alternatives. On top of that, you don’t want to waste time looking at options that you can’t afford.
Instead, we recommend working out your budget first. By simply sitting down and working out what you need, why you need it, and how much you have to spend, you can work out how much you’re willing to spend or have to spend.
From there, you can then head straight to the more affordable options and avoid spending over the odds.
Weight
When it comes to the design of a paddle, weight is absolutely crucial. It is something you definitely can’t afford to overlook.
Pickleball paddles can weigh anything from 4 to 14 ounces. This is a substantial difference that needs to be taken into account.
You have to choose the weight that suits you best. Generally speaking, heavy paddles increase speed and boost power.
As a result, you don’t have to put as much force into your strokes. Heavier paddles tend to suit those that can’t hit the ball with as much power.
Lighter paddles don’t offer as much force, but they are easier to control. As a result, they are better suited to those that strike the ball with more power and have more experience in the game.
Heavier paddles are much better suited to beginners.
Material
Budget pickleball paddles aren’t usually made out of the best materials. As a result, you have to be careful when picking out a paddle.
Some cheaper paddles are made out of unreliable wood. As you can imagine, this leads to a less reliable, easily breakable paddle.
However, with patience, you’ll be able to find paddles that are made to a much higher standard. Don’t worry, these paddles will still be well within your budget too.
To ensure you buy a reliable paddle, keep your eyes peeled for higher-quality materials.
Solid materials you should look out for include aluminum and fiberglass. Paddles made out of either of these materials are usually very reliable.
You will also find some high-quality wooden paddles on the market too, but we recommend reading the product reviews before rushing into your purchase.
Design
It may not be as important but it’s always nice to find a paddle that features an epic design.
If you simply want a budget-friendly, high-quality paddle, you might not need to think about this as much, but if you want to buy something you like the look of, spare some time to really take a look at the different options available.
Most of the paddles on our list come in a variety of different colors and styles. These paddles are great options for anyone that wants a stylish looking paddle.
These paddles give you the opportunity to find your favorite colors, unique patterns, and vibrant paddles.
If this is important to you, you might want to steer clear of paddles that don’t come in a variety of different styles.
Paddle Set
Finally, you’re also going to have to think about whether you want to buy a full set of paddles or just one.
There are advantages to both and neither option is wrong, but you could save some money if there is more than one of you that plans on playing pickleball.
The beauty of buying a paddle set is that you receive two paddles. This is great if you want to own more than one paddle or plan on playing with someone else. That’s not all though.
Paddle sets usually come with a set of pickleballs too. On top of that, you’ll be given a carry bag to hold all your equipment.
This is great because it ensures that you have everything you need to play pickleball in one convenient bag.
The same can’t be said when you purchase a single paddle. Having said that, again, there’s nothing wrong with buying just one paddle if that is all you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Lightweight Paddles Better Than Heavier Paddles?
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing between lightweight and heavy pickleball paddles. Both come with their own advantages and disadvantages that make them worthwhile choices.
Lightweight paddles offer more control and comfort, whilst heavier paddles offer more power and strike force.
Generally speaking, beginners benefit more from using heavier paddles and experienced players benefit more from the control lightweight paddles offer.
Does The Pickleball Paddle You Choose Matter?
If you simply want to give pickleball a try, the paddle you choose doesn’t matter too much. However, if you want to play pickleball more competitively, it is very important.
Your game will benefit massively from playing with a paddle that suits your style. You will find yourself playing much more effectively.
Are Budget Pickleball Paddles Worth The Money?
Yes, there are some amazing pickleball paddles that you can pick up for an absolute steal.
Admittedly, some budget options just don’t meet the standard, but by carefully searching the market, you will easily find some high-quality options that do.
Final Thoughts
You can’t take part in pickleball without a reliable, high-quality pickleball paddle. While the oversaturated market and overpriced options might make it difficult for you to find the paddle you need, when you know what to look for things get easier.
Luckily for you, we did the hard part for you. We found the best budget-friendly paddles on the market and reviewed them in this article.
We’ve looked at reasonably priced single paddles for beginners, elite paddles that can be used in competitive competition, and paddle sets that come with everything you and your partner need to get started.
No matter what sort of budget-friendly paddle you’re looking for, you should easily be able to find what you’re looking for on our list.
All you have to do now is take some time to narrow down the options. By doing so, you should be able to identify the paddle that suits your needs best. Remember to refer to our buyer’s guide for help.
