When it comes to pickleball paddles, there are a few things to consider. First, what is your budget? Pickleball paddles can range from very inexpensive to quite expensive. Second, what is your level of play? If you are just starting out, you may want to invest in a less expensive paddle.
However, if you are a more experienced player, you may want to upgrade to a higher quality paddle. So what is your playing style? Graphite paddles are typically lighter and faster, while wooden paddles are usually heavier and slower.
Pickleball sets can be a great way to get started. Most sets include two paddles and a pickleball net.
For the pickleball player on a budget, the best cheap pickleball paddle is the Amazin’ Aces Signature. Under 40, this paddle is made with quality in mind, not to mention it’s one of the cheapest graphite paddles on the market.
It features a large sweet spot and great control, making it perfect for beginners and intermediate players alike.
List Of Best Budget Pickleball Paddle
I combined this list of the best inexpensive pickleball paddles after carefully testing them myself and reading through reviews from other experts in the field.
I looked at every aspect of these paddles, from their materials to their performance, to find the best ones for players who don’t want to spend a lot of money but still want a high-quality paddle.
I also interviewed beginner, intermediate, and professional players to get their insights on what makes a good budget paddle. I believe I have found the best options on the market, and I am confident that you will be able to find the perfect paddle for your needs on this list.
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01. Amazin’ Aces Signature – Overall Best Budget Pickleball Paddle Under 50
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Reasons to Buy
- Reasonably priced
- Durable
- Comfortable grip
- Longer than some other paddles
Reasons to Avoid
- Little Bit on Heavier Side
The Amazin’ Aces Signature Pickleball Paddle is a mid-weight paddle that is USAPA approved. It has a graphite face and a honeycomb polymer core. The paddle has a beautiful design and color.
Maneuverability and Control
The mid-weight paddle is great for players who want a paddle that is easy to maneuver. The graphite face provides a hitting surface that is durable and easy to control. The honeycomb polymer core creates a sweet spot that is large and forgiving.
Comfortable Grip
It has a sweat-absorbing grip that makes it comfortable to hold for long periods of time, and the grip circumference is 4.5″, which is perfect for most people’s hands.
Expert’s Opinion
For starters, it’s reasonably priced, which is always a bonus. Additionally, it’s not cheaply made – you can tell that it’s built to last. Plus, it didn’t cause any arm issues when playing with it, which is always a huge plus.
The grip is also great – not too rough and not too soft. And the handle is a bit longer than some other paddles, which makes it more comfortable to hold. The paddle also weighs a bit more than other mid-weight paddles.
All in all, I would definitely recommend giving this best budget pickleball paddle a try if you’re looking for a new one. It’s a great option for players of all levels.
02. Niupipo – Affordable Paddle Under $40
Reasons to Buy
- Reasonably priced
- Lightweight
- Good grip
- Ball control is easier
- Cool design
Reasons to Avoid
- Some people may find the paddle to be too light
Niupipo Pickleball Paddles are USAPA approved and have a graphite carbon fiber face that makes them very durable.
Lightweight Construction with Excellent Ball Control
The honeycomb composite polymer core makes them very light and able to bounce well. The ball deflection is also very good with this budget racket, and it has a great texture that provides good balance. The racket is also very versatile and can be used for a variety of different strokes.
The Niupipo Pickleball Paddle is a lightweight paddle that is designed for excellent ball control.
Comfortable Handle and Unique Features
The comfortable handle and soft grip make it easy to hold for longtime play. The perforated, sweat-absorbent design helps keep your hand dry during play, and the neck-guard protects against accidental hits.
The impressive design and unique features of this paddle help it stand out from the competition, making it an excellent choice for pickleball enthusiasts.
Why I Like This Paddle
Personally, I like the niupipo Pickleball Paddle. It is a very reasonable price, and if you are looking for an upgrade, it is a good choice. The grip is very good, and the paddle is very lightweight. Ball control is easier, and low shots are more responsive.
The design is cool, and the paddle seems sturdy. It is easy to maneuver, and the size fits my hand well. Moreover, the paddle has helped to improve my game. As compared to my old paddle, I have more control and accuracy with this one.
03. Uteeqe – Best Inexpensive Pickleball Racket Over 30 Dollars
Reasons to Buy
- Good size sweet spot
- Narrow and long
- Cheap
- Solid feel when driving
- Spins the ball well
Reasons to Avoid
- No for Small Hands
The Uteeqe graphite paddle is a versatile and well-rounded pickleball paddle that offers a nice balance of power and control.
Premium Graphite Construction
It’s made with premium graphite, so it has a bit more weight to it than other graphite paddles, which gives it more mass for generating spin.
The surface of the paddle has a semi-rough texture that provides good grip and maneuverability, while the perforated core helps to reduce vibration for a more comfortable feel.
Large Sweet Spot
The large sweet spot makes it easier to hit the ball consistently, and the extra weight also gives the paddle a bit more power behind each shot.
Overall, the Uteeqe graphite paddle is a great choice for players who are looking for a versatile paddle with a good mix of power and control.
Expert’s Opinion
I found the Uteeqe Pickleball Paddle to be just the right size for extra-large hands. I was able to use it with no problems and I am very pleased with how it feels.
The paddle is narrower and longer than some of the other cheap paddles I have used, but it still has a good size sweet spot. I have noticed that the leather wrapped grip helps me to swing the paddle more easily, and I can really feel the ball driving when I hit it.
The paddle has a solid feel when driving, and I can spin the ball quite well on the courts. I am very pleased with this budget paddle and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a good quality paddle.
04. ULAOUL – Best Value for The Money Under $50
Reasons to Buy
- Inexpensive
- Lightweight
- Good grip
- Ball control is easier
- Composite material is strong and durable
Reasons to Avoid
- The plastic is too soft for professional players
- Ball does not bounce off as well as other paddles.
ULAOUL pickleball paddles are some of the best value pickleball paddles on the market. They’re made with a carbon fiber face and an integral molding process that results in a very strong and lightweight paddle.
Durable Edge Guard
The edge guard is also made of composite material and is fixed by nails, so it’s very strong and durable. The only downside to this paddle is that it doesn’t have the same spin potential as some of the more expensive paddles on the market.
Comfortable and Reliable Grip
The grip on this paddle is soft, absorbent, and durable, so it will stay in your hand no matter how much you sweat. The paddle is also highly elastic, meaning it will give you a great shots. And best of all, this paddle is very inexpensive compared to other pickleball paddles on the market.
Expert’s Opinion
I personally tested the ULAOUL pickleball paddles and I can say they are good for starting out. The plastic on the edges is soft so the ball can bounce off without leaving a mark and the handles have a good grip.
However, if you are a professional player, I would not recommend using these paddles. The plastic is too soft and the ball does not bounce off as well as it does with other paddles. Nevertheless, these paddles are good for starting out and I would recommend them to beginners.
05. GAMMA Sports 2.0 – Inexpensive Pickleball Racket for Professional Players
Reasons to Buy
- Approved by the USAPA
- Lightweight
- Great spin potential
- Aramid core is shock absorbing
- Affordable
Reasons to Avoid
- The paddle can be difficult to control for beginners
- Not as powerful as some other pickleball paddles
The GAMMA Sports 2.0 Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for those looking for a lighter paddle. It’s made of fiberglass, so it’s lightweight and responsive. The textured graphite face provides excellent ball control, while the aramid core ensures a smooth, comfortable grip.
Lightweight and Responsive Design
The large hitting surface makes it easy to control the game, and the cheap price tag makes it an affordable option for those just starting out. If you’re looking for an affordable paddle that delivers great performance, the GAMMA Sports 2.0 is a great choice.
USAPA Approved with Excellent Grip
The GAMMA Sports 2.0 Pickleball Paddle is a great paddle for those who want to up their game. It is approved by the USAPA and has a great grip that will help you keep your paddle in your hand, even when your palms are sweating.
The paddle core is also shock absorbing, so you don’t have to worry about your arm getting tired from long games. There are many pickleball paddles on the market, but this one is definitely one of the more advanced paddles. If you’re looking to take your game to the next level, this paddle is a great option.
My Experience with GAMMA Sports 2.0
I tested the GAMMA Sports 2.0 Pickleball Paddle, and I found it to have a lot of spin. The paddle core is very firm, and it has a balanced feel. It is easy to control, but it does not have the same power as many pickleball paddles.
It is a good paddle for players with large hands who want to hit hard. The paddle can also be used with two hands. Overall, I liked the paddle, but I would not recommend it to beginners.
06. Niupipo Wood Pickleball Paddle Under $30
Reasons to Buy
- Great value
- Durable
- Comfortable grip
- Produces quality hits
Reasons to Avoid
- Heavier than some pickleball paddles
If you’re looking for a wooden pickleball paddle that’s affordable and works well, the Niupipo Wood Pickleball Paddle is a great option. It’s made of 7-ply basswood, so it’s durable, and the 8″ x 10″ face provides a good sweet spot.
Premium Sweat-Absorbent Grip
The paddle also has a Premium Grip that’s sweat absorbent, making it comfortable to hold. The paddle works well for schools and beginner players, and it produces quality hits. Overall, the Niupipo Wood Pickleball Paddle is a great value and an excellent choice for wooden paddles under $30.
Expert’s Opinion
I recently had the chance to try out the Niupipo Wood Pickleball Paddle, and I have to say that I was impressed. The hit is solid and it’s a great value for the price.
I found that the paddle was a little heavier than some of the others on the market, but it didn’t cause any wrist pain or fatigue during my game.
Overall, I think this is a great paddle and definitely worth checking out if you’re in the market for a new one.
07. GAMMA Fusion – Best Fiberglass Pickleball Paddle Under 40
Reasons to Buy
- Textured fiberglass surface for good feel and power
- Polypropylene honeycomb core for good control and balance
- Comfortable grip helps to reduce hand fatigue
Reasons to Avoid
- Heavier than some pickleball paddles
The GAMMA fusion is a great all around paddle. It has a textured fiberglass hitting surface which provides good feel and power. The polypropylene honeycomb core provides good control and balance.
The paddle is a bit on the heavier side at 8.0 oz, but this makes it more stable through your swings. If you are an all around player who likes to have a lot of control over the ball, this is the paddle for you.
Ideal Choice for Beginner and Intermediate Players
GAMMA fusion provides great control and feel for the ball, making it a great choice for beginner and intermediate players. The paddle also has a comfortable grip that helps to reduce hand fatigue.
Expert’s Opinion
As per my experience with the GAMMA fusion pickleball paddle, i love the graphics. The colors are eye-catching and vibrant, and the paddle itself is easy to use. I found that it had good power and ball control, and the grip was comfortable to hold.
The paddle also provided good traction and control, making it easy to keep the ball in play. Overall, I was very pleased with the performance of the GAMMA fusion pickleball paddle and would recommend it to anyone seeking a high-quality paddle.
08. Amazin’ Ace Wood Pickleball Paddle Under $30
Reasons to Buy
- Durable 7-ply wood construction
- Comfortable cushion grip
- Well-balanced and easy to maneuver
- Large sweet spot
Reasons to Avoid
- Edge guard could be better
The Amazin’ Ace is an entry level paddle designed for beginner. It’s made of durable 7-ply wood construction with a maple veneer and has a comfortable cushion grip with a wrist strap for wrist movement.
Weight and Affordability
The paddle is similar to other wooden paddles in terms of weight (1.8 pounds) but it’s much cheaper. The Ace comes with 4 balls and 2 sets of paddles.
I found the Ace to be well-balanced and easy to maneuver. This paddle is a great option for beginners who are looking for a durable, affordable paddle.
Expert’s Opinion
I tested the Amazin’ Ace Wood Pickleball Paddle against a middle grade paddle and I experienced better feel in my hand and well balanced. As I played, I was careful about my wrists because I hit the ball harder and with more spin.
The sweet spot is large and the feel and sound when hitting the ball is great. The paddle is wrapped very well and the grip is excellent. I wish the edge guard was better. Overall, this is a great paddle for beginners to intermediate players.
09. Upstreet Graphite – Budget Graphite Pickleball Paddle Under 40 Dollars
Reasons to Buy
- Inexpensive
- USAPA approved
- Cushioned grip
- Sweat-absorbent
- 4.6-inch grip length
Reasons to Avoid
- Grip might be too small for those with large hands
If you’re looking for a graphite paddle that will help you take your game to the next level, the Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle is a great option. This paddle is made with polymer technology, which gives it excellent durability.
Reduced Vibration for Enhanced Comfort
The graphite material also helps to reduce vibration, giving you a more comfortable experience when playing.
In terms of balance, this paddle is lightweight but still provides plenty of power. And the soft grip ensures that you’ll be able to keep a firm grip on the paddle during intense games.
Extended Reach on the Court
With a length of 15.75 inches, this paddle is slightly longer than average, which gives you more reach on the court. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle is a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality graphite paddle.
Upstreet is an inexpensive paddle that’s still USAPA approved. It has a cushioned grip and is sweat-absorbent, so it’s comfortable to use even during long games. The 4.6-inch grip length is also ideal for players with small hands.
Affordable Excellence with USAPA Approval
However, if you have large hands, you may find the grip to be too small. Overall, the Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle is a great option for beginner and intermediate players who are looking for an affordable paddle that meets all of the requirements for tournament play.
Expert’s Opinion
I think the Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle is an excellent mid range paddle. i hit with it and i was able to get a lot of spin on the ball. I also found that it was easy to hold and i didn’t have any issues with it slipping out of my hand while i was playing.
I think that it’s a great option for those who are looking for a graphite paddle that is going to do the job without having to sink a lot of money into it. I believe that the Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle is a great option for anyone who is looking for a new paddle.
10. Franklin Sports – Affordable Aluminium Pickleball Paddle
Reasons to Buy
- Affordable
- Decent control
- Good quality
- Aluminum face is durable
- Edge guard protects the paddle
Reasons to Avoid
- Paddle is a little too heavy for some players
- Edges are too pronounced which can cause accidental net hits
Hitting Surface Quality
The hitting surface of Franklin Sports paddle is great. The shots come off clean and there is decent control too. I would say the sweet spot is about average size, not too big or small. There is some vibration that can be felt when hitting the ball hard, but overall it’s a solid paddle.
Balanced Weight and Maneuverability
The weight is nicely balanced and it’s easy to maneuver. I really like that it has an aluminum face because aluminum paddles tend to be more durable than other materials.
This paddle is also more affordable than many of the other aluminum paddles on the market, making it a great option for anyone looking for a good quality paddle without breaking the bank.
I bought and tested the Franklin Sports – Affordable Aluminium Pickleball Paddle. I think the paddle is a great value for the price. The paddle felt solid in my hand and has a heavy weight to it (10.7-11oz).
Enhanced Performance
I could really swing for the fences with this paddle and hit the ball differently than with my old wooden one. It also has an edge guard which i appreciated.
The plastic surrounding the contact face is also a nice touch as it provides extra protection. My only complaint about this paddle is that the edges are too pronounced and i found myself accidental hitting the ball into the net more often than I would like.
Overall, i think this is a great paddle for beginners or players on a budget who are looking for a little extra power behind their hits.
Buying Guide for Best Affordable Pickelball Paddles
When it comes to choosing the best budget pickleball paddles, there are several important factors to consider.
Material of The Paddle
You’ll need to decide what kind of material you want your paddle to be made from. The most common options are wood, composite, or aluminum. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to do some research to figure out which one will suit your needs the best.
Size & Weight of The Paddle
The size and weight of the paddle are also important factors to consider. Pickleball paddles come in a variety of sizes and weights, so you’ll need to find one that’s comfortable for you to use.
Grip Size
Another thing to keep in mind is the grip size. Pickleball paddles have different sized grips to accommodate different sized hands. So, if you have small hands, you’ll want to get a paddle with a small grip.
Price
Of course, price is also an important factor to consider. Pickleball paddles range in price from around $20 to $200. If you’re just starting out, you may want to go with a cheaper paddle to see if you like the sport before investing in a more expensive one.
Budget vs. Premium: Is a Budget Pickleball Paddle Right for You?
You’ve got budget options and those shiny premium ones that can cost a pretty penny. So, the question is, which one should you go for? Let’s break it down in plain terms.
Budget Pickleball Paddles:
Advantages:
Affordable as Heck: No surprises here, budget paddles are easy on the wallet. You won’t have to sell your soul to get one.
Great for Newbies: If you’re just getting into pickleball, a budget paddle is a solid start. They’re decent enough to get you going without breaking the bank.
Less Risky Investment: If you’re unsure about how much you’ll play or if pickleball will be a fling or a forever love, a budget paddle won’t leave you with buyer’s remorse.
Limitations:
Might Lack Some Flash: Budget paddles might not have all the bells and whistles of premium ones. Fancy materials and high-tech features might not be their thing.
Durability Can Be Hit or Miss: Some budget paddles might not withstand a hardcore beatdown on the court. You might end up replacing them sooner than you’d like.
Premium Pickleball Paddles:
Advantages:
Top-Notch Materials: Premium paddles often rock the latest and greatest in paddle tech. Think advanced core materials, sleek surface textures, and fancy edge guards.
Tailored for Performance: These paddles are like the sports cars of the pickleball world. They’re engineered for power, control, and spin, catering to serious players who want that extra edge.
Built to Last: You’re shelling out a bit more, and in return, you get a paddle that’s built to go the distance. These bad boys can take a beating.
Limitations:
Wallet Wince: Yeah, premium paddles can cost a chunk of change. They’re an investment, no doubt about it.
Overkill for Casual Play: If you’re more of a weekend warrior than a hardcore competitor, a premium paddle might be more than you need. You might not tap into all that high-end tech.
So, Which One’s Right for You?
Here’s the deal: if you’re just starting out or playing for fun, a budget paddle is your buddy. It’ll get the job done without emptying your pockets.
But, if you’re all in, serious about the game, and want the top-tier experience, a premium paddle might be worth the splurge.
At the end of the day, it’s about finding the paddle that fits your game and your budget. Whether you’re rocking a budget-friendly buddy or rolling with a premium powerhouse, what matters most is that you’re out there, having a blast on the pickleball court. Cheers to hitting those winning shots, no matter what’s in your hand!
Do Expensive Pickleball Paddles Make A Difference?
There’s no question that pickleball is a popular sport, and with good reason. It’s a great way to get some exercise and have fun at the same time. But if you’re serious about your game, you might be wondering if it’s worth spending money on an expensive paddle. After all, how big of a difference can paddle weight or material really make?
Here’s a quick overview of the different types of picklesball paddles:
Wood paddles are the cheapest option, but they’re also the heaviest. If you’re just starting out, a wood paddle may be fine. But if you’re looking to improve your game, you’ll probably want to upgrade to a lighter paddle.
Composite paddles are made of various materials, including graphite, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. They tend to be lighter than wood paddles and offer more power and control. However, they’re also more expensive.
Graphite paddles are made entirely of graphite and are the lightest type of paddle available. They offer excellent power and control, but they’re also quite spendy.
So, what’s the bottom line? If you’re just starting out, a wood paddle may be all you need. But if you’re serious about improving your game, you’ll probably want to invest in a composite or graphite paddle. Just remember that the best paddle in the world won’t do you any good if you don’t practice!
How Much Should I Spend On A Pickleball Paddle?
When it comes to choosing a pickleball paddle, the most important factor is how well it suits your playing style. If you’re just starting out, you’ll likely be fine with a basic paddle that doesn’t cost too much.
However, as you become more experienced, you may want to consider upgrading to a paddle with more features.
These higher-end paddles can offer better control and power, and they’re often lighter and easier to maneuver. Of course, they also come at a higher price tag. So, how much should you spend on a pickleball paddle?
If you’re just starting out, you can find a perfectly good paddle for around $50. However, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line paddle, you could end up spending over $200.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how much you’re willing to invest in your equipment. With pickleball, as with any sport, the better your gear is, the better your experience will be.
But at the end of the day, it’s still just a game, so don’t go broke trying to get the best possible equipment. Find something that suits your budget and your playing style, and have fun!
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it! My best budget pickleball paddles. I hope that this list has helped you narrow down your choices and that you find the perfect paddle for your game.
Remember, when it comes to pickleball paddles, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It’s important to consider your own playing style and what feels comfortable for you.
With that said, I am confident that any of the paddles on my list would make a great addition to your collection.
Do you have a favorite pickleball paddle that didn’t make my list? Let me know in the comments below or shoot me an email. I am always looking to expand my collection and try out new pickleball rackets.
