Best Pickleball Paddle (2023)
It can be tough to know which pickleball paddle is the best choice. With all of the different brands and models on the market, it’s a challenge to decide which one to buy.
The last thing you want to do is spend countless hours and a ton of money having to try all the paddles currently on the market. But don’t worry, I can help you narrow that choice down to just a few paddles!
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best paddles on the market right now and I’ll help you decide which one is right for you. After all, the right pickleball paddle can make all the difference in your game.
So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, read on to find out more about the best pickleball paddle for your game!
The Best Pickleball Paddles on the Market Today
I’ve done the research for you, documented paddle features, and compiled a list of the best pickleball paddles currently available. Read on to find the perfect pickleball paddle for your game!
1. CRBN 2 (Square Paddle)
The CRBN² pickleball paddle is the best overall paddle for pickleball players. Featuring a carbon fiber face and a honeycomb core, this paddle makes it easy to hit slices and cuts due to its highly textured face.
With an enormous sweet spot and an excellent balance of power, control and spin, it provides great consistency. The weight is perfect for stability at the net both in terms of speed and control.
The shorter handle and wider face extends the sweet spot further than model 1. You can choose between 13mm for more power, 16mm for more control or 14mm for a balance between both features.
Pros: Cons:
- Paddle Weight: 7.8-8.1oz
- Paddle Size: 15.75″ Long x 8″ Wide
- Paddle Grip: 4.25″ grip circumference (13 or 14mm), 4.375″ (16mm) perforated cushion grip
- Paddle Face: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
- Paddle Core: 13mm, 14mm or 16mm Polypropylene Honeycomb
- Paddle Shape: Standard
- Grip length: 4.75”
- Edge Guard: .25″ overlapping paddle face
- USA Pickleball Approved
$179.99
Scott’s Take
The CRBN 2 pickleball paddle is a game-changer. Over 95% of customers have given it a 5-star rating and shared great things about its finesse game control, spin generation, and balance.
One player with 10+ years of experience, using many different paddles, said this paddle has one of the best touches they’ve ever had, making it perfect for consistent drop shots.
It also has enough power to get the job done. This paddle is highly recommended; spinners in particular will love its amazing feel and superior control and power! In my opinion, and many others seem to agree, this is the best pickleball paddle!
2. Armour Carbon Graphite HELIO
Armour set out to create a pickleball paddle that would provide players with exceptional ball control, power, and feel.
The result is a graphite pickleball paddle that weighs just 7.9 ounces and has a large sweet spot.
These graphite paddles are 16mm thick and made with Armour’s polypropylene AdvancedCore technology that gives you an unbeatable balance between control and power while adding plenty of feel to your game!
Pros: Cons:
- Paddle Weight: 7.6-7.9oz
- Paddle Size: 16″ Long x 8″ Wide
- Paddle Grip: 4.5″ grip circumference
- Paddle Face: Hybrid – Carbon Graphite
- Paddle Core: 16mm Thick Polypropylene AdvancedCore
- Paddle Shape: Standard
- Grip Length: 4.5″
- Armour PerfExtreme perforated Grip
- USA Pickleball Approved
$169.99
Scott’s Take
It may not be the cheapest pickleball paddle, but it very well may become your favorite paddle. Most players love the look and feel, and feel like it has the largest sweet spot of any paddle they’ve used.
This pickleball paddle is a great choice for players looking for an versatile paddle that’s perfect for players of all skill levels.
If you’re looking for a top-quality pickleball paddle that will help take your game to the next level, then the Armour Carbon Graphite HELIO is definitely worth considering!
3. Onix Evoke Premier
In an attempt to create the best pickleball paddle, Onix teamed up with Pickleball National Champions Matt Wright and Lucy Kovalova.
The Evoke Premier Composite Paddle is perfect for those who want power and precision in their game. It’s Atomic13 Edge technology offers a slim and sturdy edge guard that reduces shock but improves the paddle’s power and speed.
It also has a polypropylene honeycomb core combined with a DF composite face, giving you power without sacrificing control with your dinks, lobs, and volleys.
This powerful paddle comes in three sizes: standard weight, lightweight, or heavyweight – so you can choose whether you want more speed or extra punch when playing.
Pros: Cons:
- Paddle Weight: 7.5-7.8 oz, 7.8-8.2 oz, or 8.2-8.5 oz
- Paddle Size: 16″ Long x 8″ Wide
- Paddle Grip: 4″ (lightweight) or 4.125″ grip circumference. Tacky perforated cushion grip
- Paddle Face: DF Composite
- Paddle Core: Polypropylene
- Paddle Shape: Standard
- Grip Length: 5″
- Contoured tennis handle shape
- USA Pickleball Approved
$149.99
Scott’s Take
The ONIX Evoke Premier Composite pickleball paddle is the perfect power pickleball paddle for players of all skill levels. From novices looking to add power to their game to pros in search of a greater edge, this paddle offers the perfect mix of power and control.
Its large shape and textured surface provide maximum spin, while its lightweight construction allows for quick handling and increased reach. If you want to put even more focus on power, you even have a heavier paddle option.
Whether you’re looking for a heavy-hitting weapon or a power paddle with touch, the Evoke Premier is the ideal choice for your style of play.
4. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16
Ben Johns is ranked No. 1 in the world for doubles, mixed doubles, and singles by the Pro Pickleball Association. In 2022 he signed a new partnership with JOOLA Pickleball, he collaborated with JOOLA to design and produce his new official paddle, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16.
With a unique foam-injected perimeter around a 16mm thick polymer core, increased consistency and weight distribution promises better control and response time when striking balls. The exterior of the paddle is covered in JOOLA’s carbon friction surface giving impressive spin to your shots.
The 16.5″ length makes it easy to reach low shots while the 5.5″ handle length allows for double-handed shots. A thicker 0.63” polymer core further improves control and compensates for off-center hits allowing for more accurate placement of shots even at high speeds. This paddle has both 8.4 oz and 7.9 oz models with perforations to combat moisture along with ridges that provide a comfortable grip – ensuring maximized comfort as well as power!
Pros: Cons:
- Paddle Weight: 8.2 – 8.6 ounces (Standard), 7.7 – 8.1 ounces (Swift)
- Paddle Size: 16.5″ Long x 7.5″ Wide
- Paddle Grip: 4.25″ Circumference. Sure-Grip Technology
- Paddle Face: Carbon Fiber Friction Surface (CFS)
- Paddle Core: 16mm (0.63″) Reactive Polymer Core
- Paddle Shape: Elongated
- Grip Length: 5.5″
- Edge Guard: .25″ overlapping paddle face
- USA Pickleball Approved
$219.95
Scott’s Take
If you’re an advanced player looking for a paddle with great control, spin and power, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 pickleball paddle is an excellent choice.
It has a larger sweet spot and head-heavy design that provides more power and accuracy when hitting shots, as well as a longer handle and softer touch which helps with spin and finesse shots. The paddle allows for increased consistency and better gameplay on return shots, drops, dinks and volleys.
Although it is slightly heavier than other paddles, this can be easily managed by advanced players. The price may be steep but the performance it delivers makes it well worth the investment. This is a great paddle for experienced players!
5. Recess 512 Sky
The Recess 512 pickleball paddle has a high-quality honeycomb interior and custom-made edge guard making it resistant to weather and wear. Its industry-standard foam padding helps keep your grip secure.
The durable fiberglass surface is screen printed with artwork created by artists in Austin, Texas where Recess is based. Giving you not only a great performing paddle but also one that looks awesome.
Each paddle comes with its own custom cover made of lightweight yet durable nylon material—so your paddles will look better for longer. With the Recess 512 pickleball paddle, you’ll look like a pro immediately and be playing like a pro in no time!
Pros: Cons:
- Paddle Weight: 8.0 – 8.5 ounces
- Paddle Size: 16.5″ Long x 7.5″ Wide
- Paddle Grip: 4.25″ Circumference. Highly condensed foam, custom cushioned grip, sweat proof
- Paddle Face: Strong and durable Carbon Fiber
- Paddle Core: 0.63” thick honeycomb interior
- Paddle Shape: Elongated
- Grip Length: 5.6″
- Edge Guard: Custom-made to combat the elements
- Nylon Cover: Keeps the paddle safe and clean when stored
$128.00
Scott’s Take
These paddles look amazing! My wife immediately fell in love with the style and design of these paddles. Reviews from customers have been overwhelmingly positive, citing the quality of craftsmanship, style, and control with the paddle as being particularly impressive.
Experienced tennis players will appreciate this pickleball paddle, as it allows them to move with a two-handed backhand just like in tennis.
With its sleek look and stylish design, this paddle will definitely turn heads on the court!
6. Rally Tyro 2 Pro
Designed with a shock-reducing polymer core and a large sweet spot, this middleweight paddle offers fantastic control and plenty of power for serves, volleys and baseline shots.
The poly-carbonate composite face covers the fiberglass reinforced honeycomb polymer core for a gentle but strong feel – perfect for defending against power players!
Whether you’re brand new to pickleball or a serious beginner looking for longevity in your game, in my opinion the Rally Tyro 2 Pro is the best pickleball paddle for beginners.
Pros: Cons:
- Paddle Weight: 7.6-8.0 ounces
- Paddle Size: 15.625″ Long x 7.75″ Wide
- Paddle Grip: 4.25″ circumference with cushioned, perforated grip
- Paddle Face: Polycarbonate
- Paddle Core: Polymer honeycomb
- Paddle Shape: Standard
- Grip Length: 5″
- Edge Guard: .125″ overlapping paddle face
$48.74
Scott’s Take
There are nearly 200 reviews for the Rally Tyro 2 Pro pickleball paddle on the Pickleball Central website and it’s averaging 5 stars! Most seems impressed by it’s performance at this price.
I bought this paddle myself as a beginner and it was definitely a great choice as my first paddle. It’s actually got a little bit of weight to it without actually feeling heavy.
That medium weight definitely helped when I was facing a stiff wind. The lighter paddle I started the game with just wasn’t cutting it. So I switched to this paddle and immediately felt confident hitting into the wind.
The Rally Tyro 2 Pro has a large sweet spot that allowed me to hit some pretty consistent shots. I felt like I could hit serves and returns confidently while also having control at the net with finesse shots.
My only complaints would be that the handle is on the thinner side (but I have larger hands) and I was getting decent but not great spin off the paddle face.
Having said all that, I think beginners will love this paddle due to its larger sweet spot, allowing them to build confidence in their game. I definitely agree with the overall consensus that this paddle plays like more expensive ones while still staying affordable.
7. Champion Eclipse Graphite
The Champion Eclipse Graphite is a great budget pickleball paddle option for players of all levels that delivers a quality performance.
The paddle’s graphite face and polymer core provide just enough power and nice ball control for its price, and its lightweight design allows for quick maneuverability on the court.
This paddle has a slim edge guard so that players can make the most of its wide surface area and deliver extra punch from the sweet spot.
The paddle also has a small grip circumference and features a cushioned, perforated grip that limits vibration from hitting the ball.
Pros: Cons:
- Paddle Weight: 7.3 – 7.8 ounces
- Paddle Size: 15.4” Long x 7.75” Wide
- Paddle Grip: 4″ Circumference
- Paddle Face: Graphite
- Paddle Core: Polymer Honeycomb
- Paddle Shape: Standard
- Grip Length: 5”
- Edge Guard: Very thin
- USA Pickleball Approved
$41.24
Scott’s Take
The Champion Eclipse Graphite pickleball paddle has accumulated a lot of positive user reviews (averaging 5 stars!) with players consistently praising its performance, comfort, and value.
They also seem to appreciate the paddle’s control, with many citing its sweet spot as a key strength. The power is decent for this paddle, but the focus is definitely going to be on more control and swing speed for newer players.
If you’re playing on a windy day then you’re definitely going to struggle hitting into the wind. It just doesn’t have the advanced power for that kind of play. I had to switch paddles until the wind died down or was behind me.
But overall, the consensus seems to be that the Champion Eclipse Graphite pickleball paddle is one of the best pickleball paddles for players on a budget. After playing a bit myself with this paddle, I’d definitely second that. I’m not sure you’ll find a better paddle for this cheap!
This paddle is an excellent choice for both beginners and intermediate players, offering a good quality performance at a budget price.
What Is Pickleball and How Do You Play?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. The game is played on a court with a net and two or four players using paddles to hit a perforated ball over the net.
The basic rules of pickleball are simple. The game is played on a court that is 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, with a net that is 36 inches high in the middle. Pickleball can be played singles (one player on each side) or doubles (two players on each side).
When it comes to the serve, the ball is hit diagonally from one side of the court to the other and the server’s arm needs to be moving in an upward arc when he strikes the ball. When the ball is served, the receiving team has to let it bounce before they return it. Then the serving team also has to let it bounce before returning. After that, both teams can either hit the ball before it bounces or play it off a bounce.
Opposing players hit the ball back and forth over the net and the rally continues until one team makes a mistake, such as hitting the ball out of bounds or into the net.
Points are only scored by the serving team and games are normally played to 11 points, you need to win by 2. Tournament games will typically be played to 15 or 21 points, again winning by 2.
What do you need to play pickleball? All you need to play is a paddle, a ball, and a net.
The Different Types of Pickleball Paddles
Did you know that the first pickleball paddle was actually a ping pong paddle? Now, there are many different types of pickleball paddles available on the market, and each one is designed to provide the player with specific advantages when playing.
Because of this, it can be tricky to choose the right paddle. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a good paddle:
- The weight of the paddle: Heavier paddles offer more power, while lighter paddles are easier to maneuver.
- The size of the paddle: Larger paddles offer more surface area, which can be helpful for beginners.
- The grip size: The grip should be comfortable and fit your hand snugly.
- The core material: Paddle cores are typically made of Aluminum, Nomex, or Polymer. Aluminum paddles are the cheapest option for beginners, but they are lacking when it comes to power. You could even go old school and try out a wooden paddle!
- The face material: Paddle faces are typically Aluminum, Carbon Fiber, Composite, Graphite, or a Hybrid. Composite paddles are a good middle-of-the-road option, while Hybrid paddles combine the best of multiple face materials and are a great choice for advanced players.
How To Choose the Best Pickleball Paddle for You
Now that you know some things to look for in a pickleball paddle, it’s time to choose the right one for you. Consider your skill level, playing style, and budget when making your decision.
If you’re a beginner, it might be best to start with something lighter like an aluminum paddle or a composite paddle. If you’re more advanced, you might want to consider a graphite paddle. And if you’re on a budget, aluminum paddles, wooden paddles, or composite paddles are typically the most affordable option.
Once you’ve decided on the material, it’s time to choose the right size and shape. Paddles typically come in a few common sizes: standard, wide body, elongated, and tear drop. You can also get a pickleball paddle with a longer handle so that you can grip it with both hands.
Finally, don’t forget to consider the grip. Most paddles come with a cushioned grip that’s comfortable to hold. But if you have larger hands, you might want to look for a paddle with a bigger grip. You can also find paddles with different textures, which can help you keep a better grip on the paddle during intense games.
You could also check out this deep dive on how to choose pickleball paddles if you want more information.
With all of these factors in mind, you’re ready to choose the best pickleball paddle for your needs.
Pickleball Tips for Beginners
If you’re just starting out, here are a few pickleball tips to help you improve your game:
- Practice your swings from different spots on the court. The more you swing the paddle, the better your muscle memory will be and the easier it will be to make shots.
- Use a lighter paddle. A lighter paddle will be easier to control and won’t tire you out as much.
- Don’t be afraid to miss. Pickleball is all about trial and error. The more you play, the better you’ll get.
- Take a little time to compare different pickleball paddles so that you can choose the best pickleball paddle for you! You want to be sure that you’re getting the best possible product for your money.
- Have fun! Pickleball is a game meant to be enjoyed. So relax, have fun, and enjoy the experience.
You can also check out the USA Pickleball Association website for more pickleball tips!
In Conclusion
Now that you know a little more about pickleball paddles and the factors to consider when choosing one, it’s time to find the best pickleball paddle for you. Consider your budget and playing style when making your purchase.
And remember, practice makes perfect! The more you play, the better you’ll become. With a little bit of time and effort, you can master the game, having a lot of fun along the way!
So grab a friend or two, head to your local court, and start playing today. Who knows, you might just fall in love with pickleball like so many others have before. Hope you enjoyed reading this!
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
