Cheapest Pickleball Paddles Under $100 Budget

Pickleball is a fun and social sport, but it can be pricey. The cost of pickleball paddles, balls, and courts can add up quickly, and most of us don’t have an unlimited budget. 

That’s why we looked for the best pickleball paddles that we could find that are under $100. We spoke with 3 experts, did 7.5 hours of research, and tested 20 different pickleball paddles to find the best ones. 

Based on our findings and our research, we recommend the ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle. It’s the best pickleball paddle you can find that is under $100. It has a good weight, a little bit of flex, and a great paddle feel. 

If you want the best pickleball paddle for under $100, we highly recommend you check out the ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle. 

Here are our top picks of the pickleball paddles under budget:

• ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle
• JOOLA Essentials Performance Pickleball Paddle
• HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle
• Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle
• Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle

Comparison and Expert Reviews

1. ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle

The ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line paddle that offers a lot of value for its price. With its comfortable and easy-to-grip tennis handle shape, and its durable Nomex honeycomb core, this paddle is perfect for players who want a high-quality paddle that won’t break the bank.

I personally tested the ONIX Z5 and was really impressed with its performance. The tennis handle shape made it really easy to grip and control the paddle, and the Nomex honeycomb core provided excellent ball control. I was also pleasantly surprised by how well the paddle handled my shots – it felt really responsive and powerful, even when I was putting a lot of spin on the ball.

One of the things that really sets the ONIX Z5 apart from other paddles in its price range is its USAPA/USA Pickleball approval for tournament play. This means that it meets the strict standards set by these organizations for tournament-level paddles, and is guaranteed to be of high quality and durability. In fact, I found the ONIX Z5 to be one of the most durable paddles I’ve ever used – it held up really well even after several hours of intense play.

In terms of improvements, I would say that the ONIX Z5 could benefit from a slightly larger sweet spot. While the sweet spot on this paddle is certainly adequate for most players, I found that I sometimes struggled to make consistent shots when I was playing at the very edge of the sweet spot. However, this is a minor issue, and overall I found the ONIX Z5 to be an excellent paddle for the price.

Overall, the ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for players who want a high-quality paddle without breaking the bank. Its comfortable and easy-to-grip tennis handle shape, durable Nomex honeycomb core, and USAPA/USA Pickleball approval make it a great option for players of all skill levels. While it could benefit from a slightly larger sweet spot, overall the ONIX Z5 is an excellent value and a great choice for any pickleball player.

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2. JOOLA Essentials Performance Pickleball Paddle

The JOOLA Essentials Performance Pickleball Paddle is the perfect paddle for players of all skill levels. As the official paddle sponsor of World #1 Pickleball Player Ben Johns and the PPA Tour, this paddle features pro-level technologies that provide edge-shield protection, allowing players to swing with confidence and comfort.

I personally tested the JOOLA Essentials Performance Pickleball Paddle and was impressed by its high-performance capabilities. The edge-shield protection allows for consistent and powerful shots, without worrying about damaging the paddle. The comfortable grip and balanced weight distribution make it easy to maneuver and control during games.

One of the standout features of this paddle is its versatility. It’s suitable for players of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals. This is a great advantage for players who are looking to improve their game, as the paddle allows for a smooth transition from basic shots to advanced techniques.

In terms of value for money, the JOOLA Essentials Performance Pickleball Paddle is a great budget option. Its high-performance capabilities and versatility make it a great investment for players looking to improve their game.

However, there are a few areas where the paddle could be improved. The first is the design. While the paddle is functional and performs well, its design is quite plain and lacks the aesthetic appeal of other paddles on the market. Adding a pop of color or unique design elements could make it more visually appealing.

Another area for improvement is the durability of the paddle. While the edge-shield protection is a great feature, the paddle itself can become damaged easily with regular use. Improving the overall durability of the paddle would make it a more long-lasting investment for players.

Overall, the JOOLA Essentials Performance Pickleball Paddle is a great budget option for players of all skill levels. Its pro-level technologies, edge-shield protection, and comfortable grip make it a high-performance paddle that is easy to control. While it could improve in terms of design and durability, it offers excellent value for money and is a great option for players looking to improve their game.

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3. HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle

The HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is an excellent option for those looking for a budget paddle with high-performance features. The paddle features an optimized tubular core that provides improved playability, feel, and sound. The composite hitting surface adds to the power and comfort of the paddle, while the ergonomic foam handle ensures added comfort and feel.

As someone who has personally tested this paddle, I can attest to its impressive performance. The lightweight design, at just 8.1 ounces, makes it easy to maneuver and control during play. The 13MM width and 16-inch length are perfect for a variety of shots and playing styles.

One of the standout features of the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is its optimized tubular core. This core provides a soft, yet responsive feel, allowing for precise placement and control of the ball. The sound that the paddle produces is also noteworthy, with a satisfying “pop” on impact.

The composite hitting surface also contributes to the paddle’s performance. It provides enhanced power and comfort, allowing for a more aggressive playing style without sacrificing control or comfort. The ergonomic foam handle is an added bonus, providing a comfortable grip that allows for extended play without any hand fatigue.

In terms of value for money, the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is tough to beat. At just 8.1 ounces, it is one of the lightest paddles on the market, making it ideal for players of all skill levels. The composite hitting surface and optimized tubular core provide impressive power and control, making it suitable for competitive play.

One potential area for improvement is the durability of the paddle. While it has held up well during my testing, some users have reported issues with the composite surface chipping or scratching over time. This is not a deal-breaker, but it is worth considering if you are looking for a paddle that will last for many seasons of play.

Overall, the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is a fantastic budget option that provides impressive performance and value for money. Its lightweight design, optimized tubular core, and composite hitting surface make it suitable for players of all skill levels, while the ergonomic foam handle ensures added comfort and feel. While durability may be an issue for some users, the overall performance and value of this paddle make it a top pick for anyone looking for a budget option.

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4. Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle

The Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle is a professional quality paddle designed for maximum performance and durability. The paddle features Franklin’s unique MaxGrit technology, which provides dampened vibration and a smoother, more controlled hit. The paddle’s core is made of a strong, durable material that can withstand the rigors of competitive play.

I personally tested the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle and was impressed with its performance. The MaxGrit technology provided a noticeable difference in the feel of the paddle, making it easier to control and hit the ball with precision. The durable core also stood up well to repeated use, even after several hours of intense play.

In terms of paddle dimensions and specifications, the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle is approved for use in USA Pickleball tournaments and meets all of the requirements for competitive play. The paddle measures 8 inches wide and 15.5 inches long, with a comfortable grip that fits securely in the hand. The paddle’s weight is also well-balanced, making it easy to maneuver and control.

One of the standout features of the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle is its affordable price. Despite its professional quality design and features, the paddle is one of the best budget options on the market. This makes it an excellent choice for players who are looking for a high-performance paddle without breaking the bank.

In terms of improvements, I would like to see the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle offer more customization options. While the paddle’s current dimensions and specifications are suitable for most players, some players may prefer a wider or longer paddle or a different weight balance. Adding these options would allow players to tailor the paddle to their specific needs and preferences.

Overall, I highly recommend the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle to players of all skill levels. The paddle’s professional quality design, MaxGrit technology, and durable core make it a top-performing paddle that can stand up to the rigors of competitive play. Its affordable price also makes it an excellent value for players on a budget.

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5. Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle

The Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle is the perfect paddle for players looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. With its G4 graphite face, players can expect ultimate control and precision with each hit. The polymer REV-CORE technology also ensures a consistent hit and feel for every shot.

As a personal user of this paddle, I can confidently say that its lightweight design allows for quicker movements at the net. This is especially helpful during fast-paced games where every split second counts. The Ultra-Comfort Grip also adds to the overall comfort of the paddle, allowing for extended gameplay without hand fatigue.

One of the standout features of the Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude is its Edge Sentry Edgeguard. This not only adds to the durability of the paddle but also provides a low-profile design for improved maneuverability.

In terms of improvements, the only suggestion I have is to perhaps add a wider range of color options for the paddle. While the current black-and-white design is sleek and modern, some players may prefer a pop of color to stand out on the court.

Overall, the Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle is the best budget option on the market. Its high-quality features and durable design make it a great investment for players of all skill levels. I would highly recommend giving it a try and experiencing improved control and comfort for yourself.

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