7 Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners (+Sets) From $25 & Buying Guide
Pickleball is a sport that has gained immense popularity in recent years. This paddle sport is a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping pong and is played on a court that is smaller than a tennis court. The game is easy to learn, making it an ideal sport for beginners of all ages.
When it comes to pickleball, the paddle you choose can make a significant difference in your performance. As a beginner, choosing a paddle that is easy to control and comfortable to use is essential. The right paddle can help you improve your skills and make the game more enjoyable.
The critical thing to consider when choosing pickleball paddles for beginners is the weight and size of the paddle. A lighter paddle is easier to control, making it an ideal choice for beginners. The size of the paddle also matters, as a larger paddle provides a larger sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball.
We spent countless hours researching and testing various pickleball paddles to identify the best ones for beginners. In this article, we’ll share our top picks and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners
We have researched and tested various pickleball paddles to find the best pickleball paddles for beginners. A good pickleball paddle should have a comfortable grip, be lightweight, and offer a large sweet spot for easy hits. We have compiled a list of the top pickleball paddles that meet these criteria, so you can choose the best one for your needs and start playing like a pro.
Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set
If you’re looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle set for beginners, we recommend the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set.
Pros
- USAPA approved for sanctioned tournament play
- Improved strength with honeycomb core and carbon fiber construction
- Ideal balance with graphite carbon fiber composition
Cons
- May not be suitable for advanced players
- Some users report handle may be too thick for smaller hands
- Some users report the paddle may have a softer feel compared to other paddles
Our experience with the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set has been great. The USAPA-approved set is perfect for beginners who want to improve their game and participate in sanctioned tournaments.
The honeycomb core and carbon fiber construction provide excellent strength and energy for spin shots. The graphite carbon fiber composition provides ideal balance and control for accurate shots with just the right amount of force.
The paddle set has a premium grip with a perfect handle size, making it comfortable to handle and use for long periods. The paddle set also comes with a portable bag and four balls, making it easy to transport and store.
Overall, we highly recommend the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set when considering paddles for beginners who want to take their game to the next level. The set is affordable, durable, and provides excellent balance and control for accurate shots.
Asbocer Pickleball Paddles
If you want to improve your pickleball game, the Asbocer Pickleball Paddles set is a great choice for beginners.
Pros
- The Asbocer pickleball paddles are USAPA approved for tournament play, so you know you’re getting a quality product.
- The lightweight honeycomb core and fiberglass face provide excellent power and control, and the polypropylene honeycomb technology reduces vibration for a consistent hitting feel.
- The wide paddle face provides more sweet spots for the perfect shot, and the edge guard protection enhances paddle strength and durability.
Cons
- Some users may find the grip to be too small or uncomfortable.
- The included balls may not be of the highest quality, so you may want to purchase additional balls separately.
- The carrying bag may not be as durable as some users would like.
We’ve been using the Asbocer Pickleball Paddles for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the quality and performance of these paddles. The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver at the net, and the wide face provides ample room for hitting the ball.
One thing to note is that the grip may not be comfortable for everyone. While we didn’t have any issues, some users may want to purchase an additional grip to make it more comfortable.
Overall, the Asbocer Pickleball Paddles set is a great value for a pickleball paddle for beginner players. The included balls and cooling towels are a nice bonus, and the carrying bag makes it easy to transport everything to the court.
If you’re looking for a quality pickleball paddle set to improve your game, we highly recommend the Asbocer Pickleball Paddles.
SXhyf Pickleball Paddles Set
We highly recommend the SXhyf Pickleball Paddles Set for beginners who want to have fun playing pickleball with family and friends.
Pros
- The wood paddles are perfect for beginners playing in groups of 2.
- The paddles are lightweight and easy to hold, making it easy to hit the ball.
- The set comes with a carrying bag for convenient storage and transportation.
Cons
- The paddles are made of wood and may not be as durable as other materials.
- The grip size may not be suitable for all players.
- The set only includes 4 pickleballs, which may not be enough for extended play.
We had a blast playing with the SXhyf Pickleball Paddles Set. The wood paddles were perfect for beginners and made it easy to hit the ball.
The lightweight construction made it easy to hold and play for extended periods of time. The long handles felt comfortable and non-slip in our hands, even during hot weather. The wraps on the handle also stayed together, ensuring a secure grip.
This set is perfect for outdoor play, whether at the beach, park, or camping. The carrying bag makes it easy to transport and store. We found it to be a great way to relieve stress and have some fun with family and friends. It’s also a great way to encourage kids to be more active and enjoy the outdoors.
We highly recommend the SXhyf Pickleball Paddles Set for beginners who want to have fun playing pickleball with family and friends.
It’s a great starter set that provides everything you need to get started, including two durable paddles, four high-performing pickleballs, a carrying bag, and a premium box for storage.
SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles
We highly recommend the SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles for beginners who are looking for a lightweight and affordable option that doesn’t compromise on performance.
Pros
- The multilayer face technology combines the power of graphite with the control of fiberglass, providing excellent performance both indoors and outdoors.
- The SX3 honeycomb core yields a large sweet spot for constant speed while absorbing the hit and softening the feel.
- The ultra-cushion grip material is designed for the highest level of comfort, absorbing both perspiration and impacts, allowing you to play without fatigue after long gameplay intervals.
Cons
- Some players may prefer a heavier paddle for more power and control.
- The included balls may not be of the highest quality.
- The size may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
We found that the SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles were beautifully balanced between lightweight paddles and medium-weight paddles, making them perfect for the next generation of Pickleball players. The paddles are also designed with a 4.25″ grip circumference and 5.25″ length, providing a comfortable grip for most players.
The SLK Paddle Set includes both Red and Blue SLK Neo pickleball paddles, four indoor and outdoor pickleball balls, and a rigid carry bag to protect your paddles when you’re on the go. We were impressed with the quality of the paddles and the included accessories, making this set an excellent value for beginners.
Overall, we believe that the SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a high-quality, affordable, and lightweight option that doesn’t compromise performance.
ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle
If you’re a beginner or an advanced player looking for a reliable pickleball paddle, the ONIX Graphite Z5 is worth considering.
Pros
- Mimics the handle shape of a tennis racket, making it comfortable to use.
- The nomex honeycomb core provides amazing ball control.
- It’s approved by USAPA and USA Pickleball for official tournament play.
Cons
- The price is on the higher side.
- Some players may prefer a heavier paddle.
- The grip may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle and were impressed with its performance. The paddle’s graphite face and nomex core give players superior feel of the ball, making it easy to control shots. The Widebody shape on the Z5 provides a large sweet spot, which is excellent for beginners and advanced-level players alike.
One of the standout features of the ONIX Graphite Z5 is its tennis handle shape. This design makes it comfortable to use and provides excellent spin and control during play, ensuring your game is at its best. Additionally, the paddle is protected with an edge guard, which is important for preventing damage from accidental drops or impacts.
While the ONIX Graphite Z5 is a bit pricier than some other beginner paddles, we believe it’s worth the investment. USAPA and USA Pickleball approve the paddle for official tournament play so that you can be confident in its quality. Overall, we highly recommend the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle to anyone looking for a reliable, high-performing paddle.
MTEN Pickleball Paddles Set
If you’re looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle set that’s perfect for beginners, then the MTEN Pickleball Paddles Set is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The paddles are USA Pickleball approved, making them ideal for use in tournaments.
- The unique fiberglass and polypropylene honeycomb core technology provides exceptional power and control.
- The comfortable ergonomic grip is perforated, sweat absorbent, and cushioned for better grip and cushioning.
Cons
- The paddle set is a little on the heavier side, weighing between 7.78 – 7.8 oz.
- The grip size may not be suitable for those with smaller hands.
- The included outdoor pickle balls may not be of the highest quality.
We recently got our hands on the MTEN Pickleball Paddles Set and were thoroughly impressed. The paddles are lightweight yet sturdy, and the unique fiberglass and polypropylene honeycomb core technology provides exceptional power and control. The perforated, sweat-absorbent, and cushioned ergonomic grip made it easy for us to hold the paddles for extended periods.
One of the standout features of this paddle set is the fact that they are USA Pickleball approved.
The wide pickleball racket area also provides more sweet spots for the perfect shot, making it great for beginners, intermediates, and professional players.
However, the paddle set is a little on the heavier side, which may not be suitable for those who prefer lighter paddles. Additionally, the grip size may not be suitable for those with smaller hands. Lastly, while the included outdoor pickle balls are a nice addition, they may not be of the highest quality.
Overall, we highly recommend the MTEN Pickleball Paddles Set for those who are looking for a high-quality paddle set that’s perfect for beginners.
Aieoposo Pickleball Paddles
If you’re looking for a great pickleball paddle set that is perfect for beginners, then this Aieoposo set is the one for you.
Pros
- The high-quality graphite carbon fiber surface and honeycomb polypropylene core make these paddles durable and long-lasting.
- The paddle’s edge guard provides protection while increasing the contact area for better accuracy.
- The non-slippery, hand-stitched contour grip allows for a comfortable and firm hold on the paddle.
Cons
- Some users may find the paddles to be too lightweight.
- The rough-grit face texture may not be suitable for all players.
- The high-visibility colors of the pickleball balls may not be to everyone’s taste.
We’ve had the pleasure of playing with this set and found it an excellent option for beginners. The paddles are lightweight, making them easy to handle, and the honeycomb core is soft and quiet, making them ideal for playing in places with noise restrictions. We appreciate the attention to detail in the paddle’s construction, including the protective edge guard and the non-slippery grip.
The set comes with everything you need to get started, including a pair of high-performance paddles, a paddle cover, and wristbands for added comfort. The pickleball balls are bright and easy to spot, making them perfect for indoor and outdoor games.
We highly recommend the Aieoposo Pickleball Paddle Set for beginners looking to get into the game. It’s a quality set you can trust and comes with everything you need to get started.
Feature, Specification, and Price Summary
| Feature | Niupipo MX-6 | Asbocer | Sxhyf | Neo SLK | Onix Z5 | MTEN | Aieposo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.4 oz | 7.7 oz | 7.5 oz | 7.4 oz | 7.4 oz | 7.5 oz | 7.5 oz |
| Face Size | 16 x 15.5 in | 16 x 15.5 in | 16 x 15.5 in | 16 x 15.5 in | 16 x 15.5 in | 16 x 15.5 in | 16 x 15.5 in |
| Core | EVA | EVA | EVA | EVA | EVA | EVA | EVA |
| Surface | Fiberglass | Fiberglass | Fiberglass | Fiberglass | Graphene | Graphene | Graphene |
| Handle | Penhold | Penhold | Penhold | Penhold | Western | Western | Western |
| Power | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Control | High | High | High | High | High | High | High |
| Price | $55.99 | $32.99 | $24.99 | $79.99 | $89.97 | $49.99 | $30.99 |
Prices subject to change
As you can see, all of these paddles are very similar in terms of their weight, face size, and core. The main differences between them are the surface material, handle type, and power/control balance.
The Niupipo MX-6, Asbocer, Sxhyf, and Neo SLK are all made with glass surfaces, which provide more power and less control. The Onix Z5 and MTEN are made with graphene surfaces, offering a good power and control combination. The Aieposo is made with a fiberglass surface, which is the least powerful material but provides the most control.
The handle type is also a personal preference. Penhold handles are better for players who like to grip the paddle with their fingertips. Western handles are better for players who want to grip the paddle with their full palms.
Ultimately, the best pickleball paddle for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences. If you’re not sure which paddle is right for you, I recommend trying out a few different ones to see what feels best.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best pickleball paddle for beginners, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend taking the following factors into account before making your purchase:
Weight
The weight of the paddle is an important consideration for beginners. A lighter paddle will be easier to maneuver and control, while a heavier paddle will provide more power. We recommend looking for a paddle that weighs between 7.3 and 8.5 ounces for beginners.
| Weight Range | Power | Spin | Control | Agility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight (7-7.3 ounces) | Best for agility and control | Good for spin | Good for touch shots | Best for beginners |
| Midweight (7.3-8.3 ounces) | Good balance of power and control | Good for all-around play | Good for volleys | Versatile |
| Heavyweight (8.3-10 ounces) | Best for power | Good for blocking | Less forgiving on mis-hits | Best for intermediate or advanced players |
| Extra Heavy (10-13 ounces) | Maximum power | Not as good for spin or control | Very unforgiving on mis-hits | Not recommended for beginners |
Grip Size
The grip size of the paddle is another important factor to consider. A grip that is too small or too large can lead to discomfort and affect your performance. We recommend measuring your hand and choosing a grip size that feels comfortable and secure.
Material
The material of the paddle can affect its durability, performance, and feel. Most beginner paddles are made of composite or polymer materials, which provide a good balance of durability and performance. We recommend avoiding paddles made of wood or aluminum, as they tend to be heavier and less durable.
| Material | Characteristics | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Graphite | – Very strong and lightweight material – Provides good balance of power & control – Very Durable | High-performance paddles |
| Composite | – Often has a rougher texture – referred to as fiberglass | Favored for spin generation |
| Carbon fiber | – Used for the surface of spin-centric paddles – High friction properties | Spin-centric paddles; lighter than graphite |
Shape
The shape of the paddle can also affect its performance and feel. Most beginner paddles are either oval or teardrop-shaped, with a larger sweet spot for easier hitting. We recommend choosing a shape that feels comfortable and suits your playing style.
| Shape | Length (inches) | Width (inches) | Total Length + Width (inches) |
| Standard | 15.75 – 16.5 | 7.5 – 8.25 | 24 |
| Elongated | 16.5 – 17 | 7 – 7.5 | 24 |
| Widebody | 16 – 16.5 | 8.25 – 8.5 | 24 |
Price
Finally, the price of the paddle is an important consideration for beginners. While there are many high-end paddles on the market, we recommend starting with a more affordable option until you have developed your skills and playing style.
In summary, when choosing the best pickleball paddle for beginners, it’s important to consider the weight, grip size, material, shape, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can find a paddle that suits your needs and helps you improve your game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should beginners consider when choosing a pickleball paddle?
When choosing a pickleball paddle, beginners should consider factors such as weight, grip size, and material. It is important to choose a paddle that is lightweight and easy to maneuver, with a comfortable grip size that fits your hand. The material of the paddle can also affect its performance, with options such as graphite, composite, and wood.
Are there any specific brands that are better for beginners?
There is no one brand that is better for beginners, as it ultimately depends on personal preference and budget. However, some popular brands for beginner pickleball paddles include Onix, Selkirk, and Wilson.
What is the ideal weight for a beginner pickleball paddle?
The ideal weight for a beginner pickleball paddle is typically between 7.3 and 8.4 ounces. This weight range allows for easy maneuverability and control, while still providing enough power for effective shots.
How do you determine the appropriate grip size for a beginner pickleball paddle?
To determine the appropriate grip size for a beginner pickleball paddle, measure the distance from the tip of your ring finger to the second crease in your palm. This measurement can then be compared to the grip size options provided by the paddle manufacturer.
What are some good options for beginner pickleball paddles under $100?
Some good options for beginner pickleball paddles under $100 include the Pickleball Central Rally Tyro 2 Pro Paddle, the Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle, and the Wilson Juice.
Is it necessary to invest in an expensive paddle as a beginner?
It is not necessary to invest in an expensive paddle as a beginner, as there are many affordable options available that can still provide a good playing experience.
However, investing in a higher-end paddle may offer additional features and benefits that can improve your game. Ultimately, the decision to invest in an expensive paddle should be based on personal preference and budget.
