Inexpensive Pickleball Paddles: 10 Best Options to Save You Money

Most people have a limited budget when it comes to sports equipment, so finding low-cost pickleball paddles is a top priority. 

That’s why we spoke with 3 experts, did 6 hours of research, and tested 20 different paddles to find the best inexpensive pickleball paddles. We carefully examined every aspect of the paddles, from the weight of the head down to the grip, and we put together a list of the best 10 options. 

Most pickleball players agree that the best inexpensive paddle is the Skal Valkyrie .01. 

While it’s a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, it’s worth every penny. 

Here are the best 10 inexpensive pickleball paddles:

1. Best All-Around Paddle: Skal Valkyrie .01
2. Budget Paddle Under $100: JOOLA Essentials
3. Professional Pickleball Paddle: HUDEF Hammer
4. Best Beginners Paddle: ONIX Graphite Z5
5. Cheapest Paddle: HEAD Radical Elite
6. Best For Advanced Players: Niupipo FAD (Frank Anthony Davis)
7. Best Value Paddle: HEAD Radical Tour
8. Relatively Inexpensive Paddle: HEAD Cyber Elite
9. Best Budget Paddle: SLK Evo Hybrid Fiberglass
10. Most Durable Paddle: Franklin Sports Pro

Top 10 Inexpensive Pickleball Paddles For Every Budget in 2023

Best All-Around Paddle: Skal Valkyrie .01

The Skal Valkyrie .01 Pro Pickleball Paddle is a great option for any player looking to find the right balance of power and touch. We spent 30 hours playing pickleball with this paddle and found that it delivered a good mix of power and flexibility.

The carbon fiber face provides excellent responsiveness without sacrificing power, and the textured surface provides plenty of grips even when your hands are sweaty. This is the perfect choice for players who are looking for more power and control.

Skal is one of the most recognizable names in paddle making, and the Valkyrie .01 Pro Pickleball Paddle lives up to the company’s impressive reputation. This paddle is the perfect balance of power and touch, and we recommend it to anyone who is looking for a warp-free paddle that delivers excellent playability.

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Budget Paddle Under $100: JOOLA Essentials

The JOOLA Essentials Performance Pickleball Paddle with Reinforced Fiberglass Surface and Honeycomb Polypropylene Core is USAPA approved. This paddle features a fiberglass reinforced surface and a protective edge shield. We also liked how the JOOLA Essentials performed and we think it’s one of the best paddles under $100.

We tested the JOOLA Essentials for many hours to see how the paddle handles different types of strokes. The paddle was head and shoulders above most of our other picks, making it one of the best paddles for hitting the ball and responsive enough for the serve. The handle is comfortable and offers a lot of shock absorption. Overall, this is a great pickleball paddle and we’re glad that Surin picked it.

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Professional Pickleball Paddle: HUDEF Hammer

We’ve tested the HUDEF Hammer Pickleball Paddle to find out if it’s the best under $100 on the pickleball market. We found that it’s a fantastic paddle at an affordable price. If you want a high-quality paddle at a great price, we recommend the HUDEF Hammer Pickleball Paddle.

The HUDEF Hammer Pickleball Paddle is made with high-quality graphite and it features a diameter of 7.9 x 15. North face 15 x 12.7 inches. It has double buffering technology and a 4-inch handle that contours to the hand and allows users to make quick hand changes. The paddle also includes a 15-day money-back guarantee, free shipping, and a 1-year warranty.

To test the durability of the HUDEF Hammer Pickleball Paddle, we wore it out on the city streets and had a friend stand in it for an extended period of time. We also shoved a bag of sand into it and let it sit for a month to see if anything would happen. After our months of testing, we are happy to report that the HUDEF Hammer Pickleball Paddle survived almost everything we could throw at it.

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Best Beginners Paddle: ONIX Graphite Z5

The Onix Graphite Z5 is a USAPA-approved pickleball paddle that is made from graphite and carbon fiber materials. The paddle is designed for players who want a powerful and consistent swing at a good price.

We really liked that the Onix Z5 is USAPA approved and that it provides plenty of power. Overall, we think that the Onix Z5 is a safe bet for beginners and supports players that want to upgrade to a better paddle.

We chose the Onix Graphite Z5 over more expensive paddle options like the Natan N4, which has plenty of sleek design features, and it’s made out of a more expensive carbon fiber material, but the Onix Z5 is significantly less expensive.

For beginners, the Onix Z5 is a great choice and is one of the top pickleball paddles for beginners on the market.

If you are looking for a top-quality pickleball paddle that doesn’t break the bank, then the Onix Z5 is the perfect choice for you. It offers excellent value for the price and is USAPA-approved, making it a great entry-level paddle.

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Cheapest Paddle: HEAD Radical Elite

We tested the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle to determine if it’s the best pickleball paddle under $100. We found that it’s lightweight and comfortable, and it feels great in your hand. If you’re looking for a mid-priced pickleball paddle that won’t break the bank, we recommend the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle.

The HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is made with fiberglass, which is known for its excellent feel and ample power. It features a polypropylene honeycomb core, and its new Ergo Grip is perfect for recreational players. This paddle weighs just 230 grams, making it a lightweight option for recreational players.

Overall, we think the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is one of the best pickleball paddles on the market, and we highly recommend it for new pickleball players.

We tested the durability of the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle by placing it outside on the balcony to see if it would survive the temperature difference or the rain. The paddle also survived a 27-foot drop, and it took a few hits from a metal object. The paddle is still in great condition after all of these tests, which we were very impressed with.

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Best For Advanced Players: Niupipo FAD (Frank Anthony Davis)

We’ve tested the Niupipo FAD to make sure it’s one of the best pickleball paddles on the market. We found that it features great performance and an engaged honeycomb core, and we like that the quality of the materials is top-notch.

This advanced pickleball paddle is equipped with an engaged honeycomb core that provides maximum power and vibration dampening. It also features a graphite face that provides more spin, in addition to a textured face that adds even more control. Best of all, this lightweight pickleball paddle weighs only 8 ounces.

Overall, the Niupipo FAD is an excellent pickleball paddle for anyone looking for a pro pickleball paddle on a budget. Its Nomex core and graphite face makes it more durable and lightweight, and we think it’s a great pick for anyone looking for a well-balanced paddle.

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Best Value Paddle: HEAD Radical Tour

The HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle is an amazing piece of pickleball equipment that offers every player a high-value alternative to regular wood paddles. We’re very impressed with the efficiency of the Graphite Advantage design; this powerful feature increases the control in every player’s game and helps players form better strokes, allowing you to improve your game.

We’re also big fans of the textured Slimecell, which helps players play better with less effort and also helps players form better strokes, allowing you to improve your game. Plus, it’s lightweight for enhanced comfort and features a nice, neutral grip that ensures your hold is secure.

Overall, the HEAD Radical Tour is an amazing pickleball paddle that offers players a high-value alternative to regular wood paddles. If you need an affordable paddle that will increase your control without draining your wallet, we’re sure you’ll be very happy with the Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle.

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Relatively Inexpensive Paddle: HEAD Cyber Elite

One of the best things about pickleball paddles is their inexpensive price tag. The HEAD Cyber Elite Pickleball Paddle is no exception. With high-quality materials like fiberglass and a hard-hitting surface, this paddle is perfect for intermediate-level players.

The LIGHTEST carbon fiber core in the Cyber Elite Pickleball Paddle lineup. The new FST Tough and slow-rebounding Mass Cores allow for a more powerful swing and permit a return to the ball with incredible precision.

The one-handed grip is designed for an easy, relaxed grip to maintain power and consistency. And the rubber grip offers a secure fit and comfortable feel.

The HEAD Elite Pickleball Paddle is a great option for intermediate players and it comes at an affordable price. If you’re looking for a great pickleball paddle that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, we recommend the HEAD Cyber Elite Pickleball Paddle.

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Best Budget Paddle: SLK Evo Hybrid Fiberglass

We tested the SLK Evo Hybrid Fiberglass Pickleball Paddle to find out if it’s the best pickleball paddle for under $100. We found that it’s a great choice for players of all levels and that it’s durable enough for regular use.

The Evo Hybrid Fiberglass Pickleball Paddle features a C6 Face & Polymer Rev-Core Power, which gives the paddle plenty of power. While the paddle is a little heavy, we feel that the light weight allows for a faster swing at the net.

The paddle has a soft Polymer Rev.SoftCore that makes it feel soft and comfortable, and the included grip is made of Ultra-Comfort Grip material, which feels very comfortable. Overall, we felt like the SLK Evo Hybrid Fiberglass Pickleball Paddle was an excellent value and we would highly recommend it.

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Most Durable Paddle: Franklin Sports Pro

Franklin Sports has teamed up with Aspen Kern, an Elite Level 3 Professional Pickleball Player. He’s won 4 National championships and is considered one of the top 5 players in the world.

The Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle features Max Grit Technology, a MaxGrit surface coating that keeps the ball consistently on the paddle. We also liked that it was USAPA approved, meaning it can be used in tournaments.

We tested the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle to see how easy it was to use. It was fast and extremely responsive, and we found that it responded well to every shot. Our testers all agreed that it was the best pickleball paddle we’ve ever used, and we firmly stand behind that.

The Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with this paddle, send it back for a full refund. We recommend that you check the return policy at checkout to make sure it applies, but we’re confident that you will be impressed with the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle.

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What To Look Before Buying an Inexpensive Pickleball Paddle?

Price:

Price is one of the biggest factors for many people. If you’re just getting started with pickleball and want to give it a try, an inexpensive paddle might be perfect. Some very affordable paddles offer good performance at a great price. On the other hand, if you play regularly or even competitively, some more expensive paddles are worth the money.

Quality Of Materials:

The quality of your pickleball paddle is determined by a variety of factors, including how it’s constructed and the material used to build it. The best inexpensive pickleball paddles use high-quality polycarbonate for durability so you can play more games without worrying about it breaking. Some paddles also use graphite, which is a lightweight material that’s perfect for speed and accuracy.

Grip:

You want to make sure you have an appropriate grip on your pickleball paddle so it doesn’t slip out of your hand during play. A textured or contoured handle makes gripping easier while still giving you enough control to make accurate shots.

Weight:

The weight of your pickleball paddle is an important consideration when choosing the right one for you. If it’s too light, it won’t be effective in getting the ball over the net and keeping it in play. On the other hand, if your paddle is too heavy, it won’t be comfortable to use for extended periods.

Size:

The size of your pickleball paddle determines how you use it and the most effective shots. The best inexpensive pickleball paddles come in a variety of sizes to accommodate all experience levels, from beginners to more advanced players. Beginner paddles tend to be larger with wider faces while professional ones are smaller with thin edges for more control.

Durability:

The durability of your pickleball paddle determines how long it will last before you have to replace it or get a new one. If you are looking for an inexpensive option, this is something that’s not going to be as high quality so the lifespan might be shorter than other paddles on the market.

Type Of Pickleball Paddle:

You want a type of paddle that suits your style and play preferences. There are many different types, including classic paddles with large heads or advanced technology options with smaller head sizes that allow you to make faster shots. You can also choose between a traditional dot or radial grip on your pickleball paddle.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is It Possible To Play Competitively With An Inexpensive Pickleball Paddle?

Yes, you can definitely use an inexpensive pickleball paddle for competition. It might not be as high quality or last as long, but the performance of your shots is more important than anything else during a game.

Can I Buy Professional Level Paddles For Less Money?

Yes, you can buy professional pickleball paddles for less money. Just remember that there are different types of inexpensive options so not all would be appropriate to use in a competitive situation.

How Much Should I Expect To Spend On My First Paddle?

The cost of your initial purchase depends mostly on the type of pickleball paddle you choose. If it’s a professional-level model, expect to pay more than if you go for an inexpensive beginner option.

Does The Weight Of My Pickleball Paddle Matter?

Yes, your choice in paddles should be based on what feels most comfortable when playing at various speeds and with different types of shots. Some paddles are too heavy for beginners, which makes it harder to control the ball. On the other hand, if your paddle is too light you’ll lose accuracy and power in your game.

Do I Need An Expensive Pickleball Paddle?

It’s not necessary to buy an expensive pickleball paddle, but it might be preferable for some players. The type of play matters in determining what makes the most sense when choosing your equipment.

How Big Should My Pickleball Paddle Face Be?

The size of your paddles impacts how you can use them and which shots are most effective. The face of a pickleball paddle is typically between four and six inches wide to allow for easy control when returning the ball across the net.

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Conclusion:

In a nutshell, inexpensive pickleball paddles can still be competitive if you choose the right type. The size and weight might not offer as much control in your game, but it’s possible to have fun when playing with an affordable option rather than shelling out hundreds for a high-quality paddle.

There are also different types of inexpensive paddles you can choose from, including ones for beginners and professional models. It’s possible to play competitively with an affordable pickleball paddle but not all options will work depending on the quality and performance that is needed during a game.