I am excited to share with you my research on the best pickleball paddles under $150. Picking the right paddle can make a huge difference in your game and finding the perfect one can be overwhelming.
That’s why I have done the research for you, so you can focus on playing your best game. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, I have compiled a list of high-quality pickleball paddles that won’t break the bank. So, let’s dive in and find your perfect match!
Read More: Best Edgeless Pickleball Paddles
List of Best Pickleball Paddles Under $150
I know how important it is to have a high-quality paddle that suits your playing style. However, with so many options on the market, finding the perfect paddle can be challenging, especially when you’re on a budget.
That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the top 8 pickleball paddles that are all under $150. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, these paddles offer excellent performance at an affordable price.
01. Selkirk Amped – Overall Best Pickleball paddles under $150
Reasons to Buy
- Fiberglass face and polypropylene X5 core offer optimal ball cushioning and spin.
- Advanced polypropylene honeycomb technology provides excellent speed, amplitude, and vibration control, resulting in accurate and powerful shots.
- Approved by the United States of America Pickleball Association for Tournament Pickleball Play, indicating high quality and performance.
- Long handle and large surface area make it ideal for two-handed swings, allowing for more power with less effort.
- Provides excellent performance at an affordable price point, offering great value for money.
- Suitable for players of all levels, including professionals.
- Made in the USA, ensuring high quality and craftsmanship.
Reasons to Avoid
- Customer service could be better, although this is a minor issue and does not affect the overall quality of the paddle.
- No other significant cons have been mentioned or discovered during research and analysis.
Selkirk Amped is my first best pickleball paddle under 150 dollars. Made in the USA with a fiberglass face and a polypropylene X5 core, this paddle has all the features needed for optimal ball cushioning and spin.
Exceptional Performance and Quality
What sets the Selkirk Amped paddle apart from its competitors is its advanced polypropylene honeycomb technology, which provides excellent speed, amplitude, and vibration control.
This technology helps me hit the ball accurately and with more power than I could with other paddles.
One of the key factors that I look for in a paddle is its performance in tournament play. The Selkirk Amped paddle is approved by the United States of America Pickleball Association for Tournament Pickleball Play, and it is used by many professional players. This speaks volumes about its quality and performance.
Long Handle and Large Surface Area
The paddle has a long handle and a large surface area, which makes it ideal for two-handed swings. I personally find this feature very useful as it allows me to generate more power with less effort.
After doing my own research and analysis, I have concluded that the Selkirk Amped paddle is the best pickleball paddle under $150.
It provides excellent performance at an affordable price point, making it a great value for money.
Minor Issue with Customer Service
The only downside I have experienced with the Selkirk Amped paddle is the customer service, which could be better. However, this is a minor issue and does not detract from the overall quality of the paddle.
Expert’s Opinion
In conclusion, I highly recommend the Selkirk Amped paddle for anyone looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle that provides excellent performance at an affordable price.
Its advanced technology, large surface area, and suitability for tournament play make it a great choice for players of all levels.
02. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion – Lightweight and Texture Hitting Surface
Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight design makes it easier to maneuver and execute shots with precision.
- Textured hitting surface provides excellent feel and control, particularly for executing dinks and blocks.
- CARBON ABRASION SURFACE technology provides superior control and feel, with an oversized design that increases the sweet spot and power.
- Superior vibration dampening properties provide more power and control, which is essential in competitive play.
- Perforated grip provides excellent grip and comfort, with an anti-slip surface that ensures better grip and control.
- Great value for money, as it is USAPA-approved for competitive play and offers excellent power and control without breaking the bank.
- Suitable for players of all skill levels, making it a great investment for anyone looking to improve their game.
Reasons to Avoid
- It may not be as suitable for players who prefer heavier paddles.
According to my experience JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperionpaddle is an excellent choice for players looking for power and control without breaking the bank.
One of the standout features of the Hyperion Pro is its lightweight design. This made it easier for me to maneuver the paddle and execute shots with precision.
Textured Hitting Surface for Feel and Control
The textured hitting surface also provides excellent feel and control, which I found especially helpful when executing dinks and blocks.
The CARBON ABRASION SURFACE technology used in the paddle provides superior control and feels, while the oversized design means there is a larger sweet spot and more power.
I found this to be particularly helpful when executing powerful smashes, as the weight of the paddle helped generate more power.
Another feature that sets the Hyperion Pro apart from its competitors is its excellent vibration dampening properties. This provides more power and control, which is essential in competitive play.
Comfortable Grip and Anti-Slip Surface
The grip length of 4 inches and overall length of 15.75 inches may take some getting used to for players accustomed to shorter grips, but I found it easy to adjust to.
The perforated grip also provides excellent grip and comfort, while the anti-slip surface ensures better grip and control.
In terms of value for money, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pro Pickleball Paddle is hard to beat. It’s USAPA-approved, making it suitable for competitive play, and provides excellent power and control without breaking the bank. This paddle has evolved from previous models, incorporating the latest technology to enhance its performance.
In my opinion, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pro Pickleball Paddle is the best pickleball paddle under $150. It provides excellent power and control, making it suitable for players of all skill levels.
Its lightweight design, textured hitting surface, and superior vibration dampening properties set it apart from its competitors.
Overall, I highly recommend the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pro Pickleball Paddle to any Pickleball player looking to improve their game.
Its combination of power, control, and affordability makes it a great investment for any player looking to take their game to the next level.
Expert’s Opinion
In my opinion, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pro Pickleball Paddle is the best pickleball paddle under $150. It provides excellent power and control, making it suitable for players of all skill levels.
Its lightweight design, textured hitting surface, and superior vibration dampening properties set it apart from its competitors.
Overall, I highly recommend the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pro Pickleball Paddle to any Pickleball player looking to improve their game.
Its combination of power, control, and affordability makes it a great investment for any player looking to take their game to the next level.
03. JOOLA Essentials – Controlled Ball Return Under 150 Dollars
Reasons to Buy
- Polymer honeycomb construction helps with accuracy when hitting the ball
- Ball return is more controlled and consistent compared to other paddles in the same price range
- Fiberglass material and nice-sized sweet spot make it easier to hit the ball
- Sure-Grip technology provides superior grip and comfort
- Anti-slip ridge grip helps keep your hand in place while playing and prevents slippage and hand fatigue
- Smooth surface allows for easy use and good control
- Affordable and high-quality paddle, making it a great value for its price
Reasons to Avoid
- Lacks grip on its surface, making it difficult to produce a lot of spin
- May feel slightly heavy for smaller or less active players.
Polymer Honeycomb Construction for Accuracy
After playing with it for several weeks, I can confidently say that JOOLA Essentials paddle is a great choice for semi-experienced players or beginners looking for an affordable option.
One of the key features of this paddle is its polymer honeycomb construction, which helps with accuracy when hitting the ball. I found that the ball return was more controlled and consistent with this paddle compared to others in the same price range. The paddle is also made of fiberglass and has a nice-sized sweet spot, which makes it easier to hit the ball.
However, one downside to this paddle is that it lacks grip on its surface, making it difficult to produce a lot of spin.
Sure-Grip Technology for Superior Comfort
More experienced players who require more spin and control may not find this paddle suitable for their needs. Additionally, the paddle may feel slightly heavy for smaller or less active players.
Despite these drawbacks, the JOOLA Essentials paddle has some great features that set it apart from its competitors. It has Sure-Grip technology, which provides superior grip and comfort.
The anti-slip ridge grip helps keep your hand in place while playing, even when things get sweaty, and prevents slippage and hand fatigue.
Smooth Surface for Easy Control
The smooth surface of the paddle also allows for easy use and good control.Compared to previous models, the JOOLA Essentials paddle has evolved to include better grip and control features, making it a great choice for players looking for an affordable and high-quality paddle.
Expert’s Opinion
Finally, the JOOLA Essentials paddle is the best pickleball paddle under $150 in my opinion. The combination of its polymer honeycomb construction, fiberglass material, and Sure-Grip technology makes it a great value for its price.
And with my personal experience playing with it, I can confidently recommend it to others who are looking for a reliable and affordable pickleball paddle.
04. Franklin Sports Pro – Best for Enlarged Sweet Spot
Reasons to Buy
- Perfect combination of control, spin, and power.
- Lightweight yet durable with its 13mm polypropylene core and carbon fiber face.
- Extra textured surface for increased spin and control.
- Enlarged sweet spot for hitting the ball.
- MaxGrit surface coating for maximum grip.
- Versatile and approved for all skill levels.
- Easy maneuverability on the court.
Reasons to Avoid
- Ball may not bounce as well off the paddle compared to others, which could be a disadvantage for power shots.
- No mention of a warranty or guarantee from the manufacturer.
Franklin Sports Pro is a perfect combination of control, spin, and power.
One of the key features of the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle is its 13mm polypropylene core and carbon fiber face, which makes it lightweight yet durable.
Extra Textured Surface for Increased Spin and Control
The extra textured surface on the paddle increases spin and control, providing excellent accuracy on shots. The paddle’s unique shape also provides an enlarged sweet spot for hitting the ball, which is great for those who struggle with precise ball hits.
MaxGrit Surface Coating for Maximum Grip
Another impressive feature of the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle is its MaxGrit surface coating, which provides maximum grip while playing. This feature enhances the player’s control over the paddle and makes it easier to hit angled shots.
The paddle’s long handle also helps players get into the correct hand position for all shots, which is important for maintaining consistency on the court.
One of the most significant benefits of this paddle is its versatility. It is recommended for both pro and amateur players and is approved by USAPA for all skill levels.
Ideal for Singles and Doubles Play
The paddle allows for easy maneuverability on the court, making it ideal for singles and doubles play. Ball control is excellent with this paddle, and angled shots can be made easily.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While smashing is great, the ball may not bounce as well off this paddle compared to others, which could be a disadvantage for players who rely on power shots.
Expert’s Opinion
Overall, I would highly recommend the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle for anyone looking for a high-quality paddle under $150. Its unique combination of lightweight design, control, spin, and power make it stand out from its competitors.
Additionally, the paddle has evolved from previous models with improved texture and a larger sweet spot, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and professionals.
05. Paddletek Tempest Wave II – Best Maneuverable Design under 150
Reasons to Buy
- Textured graphite surface provides excellent grip, even during intense gameplay, allowing for confident shot execution.
- Large sweet spot makes it easy to precisely place the ball where you want it to go, perfect for players who prioritize ball placement.
- Highly maneuverable design makes it a great choice for aggressive players who like to keep their opponents on their toes.
- PolyCore technology produces minimal vibrations, making it easier on the arms and wrists and allowing for longer playing periods without discomfort.
- Customizable fine-tuning feature allows players to adjust the paddle to suit their specific playing style.
- Versatility makes it suitable for both experienced players and beginners who are just starting to develop their skills.
- Cushioned grip and edge guard provide ample protection against bumps and scrapes, ideal for players who prioritize safety on the court
Reasons to Avoid
- Not Suitable for Small hands
The Paddletek Tempest Wave II has a textured graphite surface that provides excellent grip, even during intense gameplay, which allowed me to confidently execute shots.
Large Sweet Spot for Precision
One of the standout features of the Tempest Wave II was its large sweet spot. As a player who prioritizes ball placement, I found it easy to precisely place the ball where I wanted it to go.
Additionally, the paddle’s highly maneuverable design made it a great choice for aggressive players who like to keep their opponents on their toes.
Minimal Vibrations and Comfort
I was also pleased with the PolyCore technology, which produced minimal vibrations even when hitting the ball with great force.
This feature made it easier on my arms and wrists and allowed me to play for longer periods without experiencing any discomfort.
Another great aspect of the Tempest Wave II was its customizable fine-tuning feature. As a player who values customization, I appreciated the ability to adjust the paddle to suit my specific playing style.
Versatile for All Skill Levels
One of the most significant benefits of this paddle is its versatility. While it’s an excellent option for experienced players, it’s also suitable for beginners who are just starting to develop their skills.
Additionally, the cushioned grip and edge guard provided ample protection against bumps and scrapes, which is ideal for players who prioritize their safety on the court.
Best Pickleball Paddle Under $150
After conducting my research and analysis, I believe that the Paddletek Tempest Wave II is the best pickleball paddle under $150. Its combination of power, control, and maneuverability makes it stand out from its competitors in its category.
Furthermore, the paddle’s ability to combat hard hitters while still providing excellent ball control is a significant advantage for players looking to improve their gameplay.
Expert’s Opinion
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a versatile and durable pickleball paddle that won’t break the bank, the Paddletek Tempest Wave II is an excellent choice. Its fine-tuning feature, comfortable grip, and protective edge guard make it an ideal option for players of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this paddle is definitely worth considering.
06. Onix Evoke Premier – Long Handle Best for Reach
Reasons to Buy
- Unique design and innovative features make the Onix Evoke Premier stand out in the market.
- Length of 16 inches provides good reach and balance.
- Atomic13 Edge Technology increases swing speed and disperses shock, allowing for more powerful hits without sacrificing control.
- DF COMPOSITE surface softens the ball without losing its pop, great for players who value both touch and power.
- Polypropylene core of the paddle provides good touch and baseline power, making it a great all-around paddle for players of all skill levels.
- Provides a similar feel to a tennis racquet, making it a great option for tennis players new to pickleball.
- Excellent performance, durability, and value for its price point.
Reasons to Avoid
- Sweet spot on the paddle may drop in colder weather.
- Grip that comes with the paddle is not very comfortable and may need to be regripped before extended use
Unique Design and Innovative Features
Co-developed by national champions Matt Wright and Lucy Kovalova, this new composite Onix Evoke Premier is a standout in the market for its unique design and innovative features.
One of the first things I noticed about the paddle was its length of 16 inches, which provides good reach and balance. Additionally, the paddle’s Atomic13 Edge Technology increases swing speed and disperses shock, which allows for more powerful hits without sacrificing control.
The DF COMPOSITE surface of the paddle also softens the ball without losing its pop, which is great for players who value both touch and power.
All-Around Performance
After spending several hours with the paddle, I found that it performed exceptionally well in a variety of areas. The polypropylene core of the paddle provides good touch and baseline power, making it a great all-around paddle for players of all skill levels.
I would also recommend this paddle to tennis players who are new to pickleball, as it provides a similar feel to a tennis racquet.
Minor Issues
While I had an overall positive experience with the paddle, there were a few minor issues that I encountered. When playing in colder weather, I found that the sweet spot on the paddle tended to drop, which was a bit frustrating.
However, it is unclear whether this issue is a problem with the paddle or simply a result of the weather conditions.
Another minor issue I had was with the grip that comes with the paddle. I found that it wasn’t very comfortable, and I would recommend regripping the paddle before using it for an extended period of time.
Despite these small issues, I still believe that the Onix Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle is the best paddle under $150 on the market. It provides excellent performance, durability, and value for its price point.
As someone who has tried out many different pickleball paddles, I can confidently say that this paddle is a standout in its category.
Expert’s Opinion
Overall, I highly recommend the Onix Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle to both beginners and experienced players alike. With its unique design, innovative features, and excellent performance, this paddle is a great investment for anyone looking to up their pickleball game.
07. PCKL Premium – Best for Hitting Dink
Reasons to Buy
- Surprisingly light, making it comfortable to play with for extended periods without getting tired.
- Vibrant colors make it stand out and visually appealing.
- Well-made, not cheaply constructed.
- Good power rating of 4/5, making it better suited for power play.
- Effortless to hit dinks.
- Great value for money, one of the best paddles under $150.
- Good audible pop when hitting the ball.
Reasons to Avoid
- Grip may be too gummy for some players.
- Lacks quality and consistent spin with a rating of 2/5.
One of the first things I noticed about PCKL Premium was how surprisingly light it was. At first, it felt a bit toy-like, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was not cheaply made. The vibrant colors of the paddle also caught my eye, with a green color that I personally prefer.
Comfortable Grip and Audible Pop
While the handle circumference was a little bigger than I prefer, the grip was still grippy, although a bit too gummy for my taste. However, the paddle had a great audible pop and a good power rating of 4/5, making it better suited for power than control.
On the other hand, the paddle felt effortless to hit dinks, although it lacked quality and consistent spin with a rating of 2/5.
Ideal for Beginners
Despite its drawbacks, the PCKL Premium Pickleball Paddle is good for beginners testing the waters with power paddles. It’s also comfortable to play with for extended hours without getting tired, as it’s not as heavy as other paddles I’ve tried.
In fact, it’s one of the best pickleball paddles under $150, beating out more expensive paddles in terms of value for money.
Expert’s Opinion
Overall, I am in love with the PCKL Pro Series paddle and it has become my go-to paddle for playing pickleball. Other players have also had positive comments about its lightness and grip, and I can attest to its comfort and good grip.
While it may not be the best for spin, the paddle can put good spin on the ball and has helped me get the ball where I want it to go, making me feel like a better player.
Having researched and tried out several paddles, I highly recommend the PCKL Premium Pickleball Paddle to anyone looking for a well-made, affordable paddle with a nice combination of power and control.
08. PACIFIC PADDLE LABS Pipeline LTE 16 – Best for Control Ball Placement
Reasons to Buy
- Generates optimal spin for powerful and precise shots
- Exceptional control for ball placement
- Lightweight and well-balanced for speed and performance
- Advanced polypropylene core and premium carbon fiber face for professional-level performance
- Unique contoured cushioned composite handle supports one and two-handed shots
- Medium grip circumference suitable for both men and women with quick hand changes
- Low-profile edge guard for ample racket protection
Reasons to Avoid
- Some players may not like ridge grip
The GrindIT raw texture carbon fiber grit face on PACIFIC PADDLE LABS Pipeline LTE 16 Pickleball Paddlethis paddle is designed to generate optimal spin for powerful and precise shots, and it certainly delivers on that promise.
I found that I was able to place the ball exactly where I wanted it with ease, thanks to the paddle’s exceptional control.
Speed and Performance with Ball Control
But the real standout feature for me was the weight and balance of the paddle. It’s built for speed and performance while maintaining ball control, and I could really feel the difference in my shots.
The advanced polypropylene core and premium carbon fiber face enhance the racket’s sweet spot for professional-level performance, and I was able to hit some truly impressive shots with this paddle.
The unique 5.25″ long contoured cushioned composite handle also deserves a mention. It supports one and two-handed shots and provides extra grip space for tennis players transitioning to pickleball.
I found the medium 4.25″ grip circumference suitable for both men and women, and it allowed for quick hand changes during play. The soft grip also limited stress on my hand, allowing for longer playtime with more accurate shots.
Low-Profile Edge Guard and Matching Cover
One thing that sets this paddle apart from its competitors is the low-profile edge guard that provides ample racquet protection. It’s also compared to the Joola Ben John, with similar spin and control but a more comfortable grip.
And with the added bonus of a matching cover to protect it off the court, it’s no wonder this paddle is a fan favorite.
The paddle is light enough for good control and quick hands, but also has great pop off for power hits.
The handle is the right length and width for a comfortable grip, and it’s cost-effective compared to other raw carbon paddles on the market. Plus, it’s USAPA approved, making it suitable for tournament play.
Expert’s Opinion
Overall, I consider this paddle to be the best pickleball paddle under $150. My first-hand experience supports this claim, as I love playing with this paddle and use it at least three times a week.
I firmly believe that it has improved my game and is of high quality. If you’re in the market for a new pickleball paddle, the PACIFIC PADDLE LABS Pipeline LTE 16 Pickleball Paddle is definitely worth considering.
Final Words
After careful research and analysis, I have concluded that the Selkirk Amped, JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion, and JOOLA Essentials are the best pickleball paddles under $150.
The Selkirk Amped stands out for its fiberglass face and polypropylene X5 core, which offer optimal ball cushioning and spin. Its advanced polypropylene honeycomb technology provides excellent speed, amplitude, and vibration control, resulting in accurate and powerful shots.
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion, on the other hand, is known for its lightweight design, making it easier to maneuver and execute shots with precision. Its textured hitting surface provides excellent feel and control, particularly for executing dinks and blocks.
Finally, the JOOLA Essentials is a great option for those looking for a more affordable paddle. Its polymer honeycomb construction helps with accuracy when hitting the ball, and its ball return is more controlled and consistent compared to other paddles in the same price range.
