Best beginner pickleball paddles 2022
paddle reviews
Are you just starting out and looking for a good pickleball paddle for beginners? If so, we understand that you probably want a decent paddle but may not be ready to spend a lot of money.
This Champion Pickleball Paddle is a reliable pick and has also been one of the best-selling paddles on the market. However, there are several other top-rated beginner options that we’ve reviewed for you below.
With the rapid growth of pickleball, there are so many new paddles being launched that the choices can be overwhelming. In our honest opinion, if you are a beginner, those may not be the best options since you end up paying for features that you probably don’t need when just starting out.
So to help you narrow down your choices, we’ve come up with a list of top beginner picks along with detailed reviews to help find the paddle that best fits your playing style and budget.
After years of playing other racket sports, we’ve fallen in love with Pickleball and created this site to cover everything related to the sport.
We recommend products as a result of our analysis and research. A lot of the info on this site was gathered by talking to friends and competitors on the court – chatting about what they like and dislike and playing with each other’s gear to compare. You can read our detailed review protocols on our about us page
If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Details.
Things to Consider
Price
All of the beginner paddles reviewed here fall somewhere in the “mid-range” of the price spectrum. Currently, pickleball paddles sell for anywhere between $10 to over $150. The options on our list are not the latest and greatest paddles but they are also not the cheapest pickleball paddles either. This list is somewhere between those two extremes.
So, if you are planning to play pickleball somewhat regularly, looking for a paddle you can play with as you improve …you want a quality paddle but not necessarily top of the line… this list is perfect for you, please keep reading below.
However, if you are just trying out pickleball for the first time and you’re not even sure you will be playing long term…and just looking for a cheap paddle click here to see a list specifically with a low budget in mind ($30 and under) for people that just need an affordable paddle.
Material
Since this list is for beginners, we’ve left off all the cutting edge paddle tech. Pickleball brands continue to push the limits of what they can offer, some of the high-end paddles use aircraft-grade composites, specially textured faces and vibration canceling cores.
All of these features can have benefits for advanced players but we don’t really think you need a lot of expensive bells and whistles. If you are still working on getting the ball over the net, you probably don’t need “liquid graphite” to increase your topspin…
Edge Guard
USAPA APPROVAL
All of these paddles have a protective guard around the edge, it protects the paddle from normal wear & tear, not so you can slam it on the ground! Often times players accidentally scrap their paddle on the ground when returning shots.
We don’t generally recommend edgeless paddles to beginners, but if you want to find out more about the design, check out this article.
USAPA APPROVED
If you want to play in sanctioned tournaments you’ll need to have an approved paddle. While some beginners will eventually want to compete it’s not necessarily a priority for most.
While more expensive paddles are almost always approved (since the buyers tend to be competitive players) some of the paddles on this beginner list are not, although we did manage to include a few that are approved- in case you foresee entering a tournament in the near future.
Weight
Grip Size
The #1 most important buying factor in this range is the weight.
Heavier paddles give you extra power, that will add a boost to your shots – especially long drives from the baseline and your serve.
Lighter paddles are easier to control and maneuver which helps when you are playing at the net, “dinking” and playing the slow game up at the kitchen.
If you do not have any injuries, especially tennis elbow or arthritis, you should be able to handle a heavier paddle. But if you do have any of the issues mentioned above – go for a mid-weight paddle (somewhere in the 7.3 to 8.4 oz range).
Grip Size
It’s also important to select a grip that fits your hand size. We’ve listed the grip size of each paddle. When in doubt between two sizes, get the smaller of the two. Here is the quick and easy way to determine grip size just based on your height. If you’re looking for a more detailed guide to buying your first paddle and other factors to consider, please see our Complete Pickleball Paddle Buyers Guide.
| Height | Grip Size (inches) | Grip Size |
|---|---|---|
| Under 5’2″ | 4 inches | Small |
| 5’3″ to 5’8″ | 4 1/4 inches | Medium |
| 5’9″ & taller | 4 1/2 inches | Large |
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
OUR TOP PICK  |
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
 |
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
 |
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
 |
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
 |
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
 |
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
 |
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
 |
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
 |
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
 |
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
Reviews
Power
The G6 has a PolyCore interior that packs a lot of heat for the price and boast a big sweet spot. without sacrificing control around the kitchen.
feel
Vibration and sound are dampened by a PolyCore interior with an incorporated graphite layer, allowing for more comfortable play and improved control of the ball and touch.
customer service
Includes limited lifetime performance guarantee from the manufacturer. Customers must enroll their paddles at paddletek.com within 14 days of purchase to obtain coverage.
Control
The velvet textured polycarbonate surface really helps with ball accuracy and backspin.
dimensions
Length: 15 5/8" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight Range: 7.8oz - 8.1oz. | Handle Length 5" | Grip Circumference 4 1/4
durability
Paddletek only sells the highest-quality paddles and has pioneered the use of cutting-edge materials and technology in the industry, and this paddle is no exception.
Power
The G6 has a PolyCore interior that packs a lot of heat for the price and boast a big sweet spot. without sacrificing control around the kitchen.
feel
Vibration and sound are dampened by a PolyCore interior with an incorporated graphite layer, allowing for more comfortable play and improved control of the ball and touch.
customer service
Includes limited lifetime performance guarantee from the manufacturer. Customers must enroll their paddles at paddletek.com within 14 days of purchase to obtain coverage.
Control
The velvet textured polycarbonate surface really helps with ball accuracy and backspin.
dimensions
Length: 15 5/8" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight Range: 7.8oz - 8.1oz. | Handle Length 5" | Grip Circumference 4 1/4
durability
Paddletek only sells the highest-quality paddles and has pioneered the use of cutting-edge materials and technology in the industry, and this paddle is no exception.
Power
This paddle includes a polypropylene honeycomb core, so unless you only care about power, the prolite illuminate 2.0 will have more than enough.
feel
Although this paddle weighs in on the heavier side at 7.6-8.0 oz., the feel is not bad if you do not have any wrist problems.
customer service
Prolite offers a 1 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty on all paddles from date of purchase. After that, they can only offer a one-time 25% off coupon code.
Control
Great control and spin capabilities due to the textured poly-carbonate surface.
dimensions
Length: 15 1/2" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight range: 7.6-8.0 oz. | Grip circumference 5” | Handle Circumference 4
durability
Prolite is a well known brand that manufactures some of the highest quality paddles on the market.
Paddletek’s Innovations since 2010 have been changing the game, when they first launched the honeycomb core, and soon after the Smart Response Technology and vibration control. Paddletek started as a modest family firm with a passion for the sport and a desire to better enhance paddle technology. Paddletek has subsequently evolved to become one of the most well-known Pickleball brands. This USAPA approved G6 is one of their best all around paddles and is perfect for those wanting to carry their game forward.
Power
The OTC honeycomb core provides a large sweet pot and an acceptional amount of power for any player, not just beginners.
feel
This midweight paddle at 8.1oz has incredible feel due to their tried and true paddle shape design that maximizes playability.
customer service
They provide a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. However, they do not offer the warranty with this specific paddle.
Control
The smooth fiberglass surface was not designed for spin, but you can still make the ball dance if you slice it hard enough.
dimensions
Length: 16" | Width: 7 7/8" | Weight: 8.1oz | Handle Length 5" | Grip Circumference 4 1/4"
durability
Head is known for their unmatched durablity and they have been around for many years in the racket sport industry. I have heavily used this paddle for a while now and it still shines.
Power
The OTC honeycomb core provides a large sweet pot and an acceptional amount of power for any player, not just beginners.
feel
This midweight paddle at 8.1oz has incredible feel due to their tried and true paddle shape design that maximizes playability.
customer service
They provide a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. However, they do not offer the warranty with this specific paddle.
Control
The smooth fiberglass surface was not designed for spin, but you can still make the ball dance if you slice it hard enough.
dimensions
Length: 16" | Width: 7 7/8" | Weight: 8.1oz | Handle Length 5" | Grip Circumference 4 1/4"
durability
Head is known for their unmatched durablity and they have been around for many years in the racket sport industry. I have heavily used this paddle for a while now and it still shines.
Power
The OTC honeycomb core provides a large sweet pot and an acceptional amount of power for any player, not just beginners.
feel
This midweight paddle at 8.1oz has incredible feel due to their tried and true paddle shape design that maximizes playability.
customer service
They provide a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. However, they do not offer the warranty with this specific paddle.
Control
The smooth fiberglass surface was not designed for spin, but you can still make the ball dance if you slice it hard enough.
dimensions
Length: 16" | Width: 7 7/8" | Weight: 8.1oz | Handle Length 5" | Grip Circumference 4 1/4"
durability
Head is known for their unmatched durablity and they have been around for many years in the racket sport industry. I have heavily used this paddle for a while now and it still shines.
Even as a beginner paddle, you will be able to use this paddle for many years. This was my weapon of choice for a long time and is USAPA approved. HEAD has always pushed sports equipment into the current day, starting with improving how they build ski and tennis gear. HEAD brings decades of experience to all racquet sports, ensuring that they provide customers with top of the line products.
Power
It has a slick Composite Hitting Surface that provides a more powerful surface that carries the ball across the net.
feel
The Tubular Construction (OTC) of the polypropylene honeycomb core has been refined by the engineers to provide optimal playability for a variety of different types of play and does not feel heavy in the hand at 7.8oz.
customer service
Head offers a one-year manufacture defect warranty and can be returned for a full refund within 30 days of the original purchase.
Control
The ergonomic foam handle from Head provides greater comfort and a better feel, but this paddle does not have a grippy surface for spin.
dimensions
Length: 16" | Width: 7 7/8" | Weight Range: 7.8oz give or take .25oz. | Handle Length 5" | Grip Circumference 4 1/4
durability
The Extreme Elite has a similar exterior construction to the Head Radical Elite. Normal wear and tear is expected, but the secured edge guard allows it to handle more than most paddles on the market.
Power
This paddle includes a polypropylene honeycomb core, so unless you only care about power, the prolite illuminate 2.0 will have more than enough.
feel
Although this paddle weighs in on the heavier side at 7.6-8.0 oz., the feel is not bad if you do not have any wrist problems.
customer service
Prolite offers a 1 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty on all paddles from date of purchase. After that, they can only offer a one-time 25% off coupon code.
Control
Great control and spin capabilities due to the textured poly-carbonate surface.
dimensions
Length: 15 1/2" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight range: 7.6-8.0 oz. | Grip circumference 5” | Handle Circumference 4
durability
Prolite is a well known brand that manufactures some of the highest quality paddles on the market.
The USAPA approved Extreme Elite is amazons number 1 choice and has gotten only 5 star reviews. Head has a reputation for innovative design, technical expertise, and a commitment for embracing all sports since 1950. Head makes top notch high performance equipment for people for all skills levels around the world.
Power
The polymer honeycomb core is standard for paddles in this class, but the wide body design and broad sweet spot really helps with accuracy for those wanting to pack a punch around the net.
feel
The mid-weight Champion Graphite X has an immense amount of feel around the net for those who like dinking, especially for the price.
customer service
Pickleball, Inc. offers a one-year warranty against manufacturing and material defects from the purchase date.
Control
A 1/2-inch polymer honeycomb core is bonded to a textured graphite face for increased grip that gives the Graphite X a leg up on its predecessor.
dimensions
Length: 15.625" | Width: 8.125" | Weight Range: 7.6oz - 8.0oz. | Handle Length 4.5" | Grip Circumference 4.25
durability
Built in Seattle, WA by Pickle-ball INC, these paddles truly are of no concern when it comes to durability.
Power
This paddle includes a polypropylene honeycomb core, so unless you only care about power, the prolite illuminate 2.0 will have more than enough.
feel
Although this paddle weighs in on the heavier side at 7.6-8.0 oz., the feel is not bad if you do not have any wrist problems.
customer service
Prolite offers a 1 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty on all paddles from date of purchase. After that, they can only offer a one-time 25% off coupon code.
Control
Great control and spin capabilities due to the textured poly-carbonate surface.
dimensions
Length: 15 1/2" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight range: 7.6-8.0 oz. | Grip circumference 5” | Handle Circumference 4
durability
Prolite is a well known brand that manufactures some of the highest quality paddles on the market.
This is a USAPA approved paddle that was designed to straddle the line between power and control for those who are trying to learn the game. You can’t go wrong with this paddle, it has been around for eons! The McCallum family, who were co-inventors of Pickleball in 1965, created Pickle-Ball, Inc. in 1972. Thousands of paddles have been supplied to schools across the country to assist kids learn about the sport thanks to Pickle-Ball,. INC They helped found the USAPA, the sport’s governing organization, and they continue to distribute paddles to ambassadors for educational purposes in the sport.
Power
This paddle does not have a ton of power, but because it it a mid-weight, it does carry some momentum through the ball.
feel
This is a lightweight to midweight paddle that is 8.3" wide, which allows those who are just starting to swing through the ball with confidence.
customer service
Onix has generously extended a manufacturer's guarantee. The warranty covers both craftsmanship and flaws from the manufacturer and is active for the first year of ownership.
Control
The most popular Onix paddle, the Z5 has a graphite face and a Nomex core, enabling great feel for those who want to focus on ball placement.
dimensions
Length: 16" | Width: 7.85" | Weight Range: 7.6oz - 8.0oz. | Handle Length 5.25" | Grip Circumference 4 1/4
durability
This paddle has a ridged edge guard and uses well-made materials that have a good reputation for longevity.
Power
This paddle includes a polypropylene honeycomb core, so unless you only care about power, the prolite illuminate 2.0 will have more than enough.
feel
Although this paddle weighs in on the heavier side at 7.6-8.0 oz., the feel is not bad if you do not have any wrist problems.
customer service
Prolite offers a 1 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty on all paddles from date of purchase. After that, they can only offer a one-time 25% off coupon code.
Control
Great control and spin capabilities due to the textured poly-carbonate surface.
dimensions
Length: 15 1/2" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight range: 7.6-8.0 oz. | Grip circumference 5” | Handle Circumference 4
durability
Prolite is a well known brand that manufactures some of the highest quality paddles on the market.
ONIX Pickleball has been dedicated solely to the pickleball industry since its inception in 2005. Onix is a trusted brand now that has talked to and listened to other athletes as part of their research and development criteria.
Power
The Rally Tyro 2 unleashes a lot of force on the ball for the price and comes with a thicker .50” Polymer Core, which helps with dampening the lightweight paddle.
feel
This is a lightweight paddle at 6.9 - 7.2oz. This paddle is easy to move around quickly and it makes you feel like you are in control. The Rally Tyro 2 also has a standard sized grip that is fairly comfortable for small or large hands.
customer service
They offer a 30-day Return Policy and 1 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty, along with a satisfaction guarantee.
Control
The Rally Tyro 2 does not necessarily fall too short in this category, but it does not have a textured surface that can grip the ball like some of the more expensive options.
dimensions
Length: 15 3/4" | Width: 7 7/8" | Weight Range: 6.9oz - 7.2oz. | Handle Length 5" | Grip Circumference 4"
durability
The polypropylene honeycomb core, composite face, and exceptional edge-guard grip earns the rally tyro 2 a strong durability rating. The brand is aiming to please and all products are tested by their team of athletes.
Power
This paddle includes a polypropylene honeycomb core, so unless you only care about power, the prolite illuminate 2.0 will have more than enough.
feel
Although this paddle weighs in on the heavier side at 7.6-8.0 oz., the feel is not bad if you do not have any wrist problems.
customer service
Prolite offers a 1 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty on all paddles from date of purchase. After that, they can only offer a one-time 25% off coupon code.
Control
Great control and spin capabilities due to the textured poly-carbonate surface.
dimensions
Length: 15 1/2" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight range: 7.6-8.0 oz. | Grip circumference 5” | Handle Circumference 4
durability
Prolite is a well known brand that manufactures some of the highest quality paddles on the market.
For the price, this made in the USA paddle is unbeatable. This really is a beginners dream paddle. Pickleball Central is the largest company dedicated to the Pickleball community with over 200k players that rely on them around the world. The family business out of Seattle, WA is very approachable and provides a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Power
The Polycarbonate face alongside the Polypropylene Honeycomb core has some good pop, especially considering the price.
feel
The Polypropylene Honeycomb Core defuses vibrations well and has a ton of feedback on the ball. The grip has moister wickening technology that helps you keep control of the paddle on hot summer days, but is a bit short for those with large hands.
customer service
Pickleball Central provides a 30-day Return Policy and 1 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty upon purchase of the paddle.
Control
Unlike the Rally Tyro 2, this version does have a velvet textured face that can kick the ball well for a perfect touch style of play.
dimensions
Length: 15.57" | Width: 7.875" | Weight Range: 7.7oz - 8.0oz. | Handle Length 4.25" | Grip Circumference 4.375"
durability
The paddle is protected by a durable velvet texture face that also improves the sweet spot. The edge guard is decent, and certainly enough to protect the paddle from the occasional accidental scrap on the ground when reaching for a ball in the kitchen.
Power
This paddle includes a polypropylene honeycomb core, so unless you only care about power, the prolite illuminate 2.0 will have more than enough.
feel
Although this paddle weighs in on the heavier side at 7.6-8.0 oz., the feel is not bad if you do not have any wrist problems.
customer service
Prolite offers a 1 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty on all paddles from date of purchase. After that, they can only offer a one-time 25% off coupon code.
Control
Great control and spin capabilities due to the textured poly-carbonate surface.
dimensions
Length: 15 1/2" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight range: 7.6-8.0 oz. | Grip circumference 5” | Handle Circumference 4
durability
Prolite is a well known brand that manufactures some of the highest quality paddles on the market.
This paddle can easily dual as a paddle for beginners and Intermediate players. If you are a beginner looking to get more mileage out of your paddle, this is a perfect choice over the Rally Tyro 2. The pro version is worth the extra money and is USAPA approved incase you decide to try your hand at a Pickleball tournament.
Power
The combination of the Polycarbonate face and the Polypropylene Honeycomb core has a lot of punch.
feel
The Polypropylene Honeycomb Core absorbs vibrations efficiently and gives the ball a lot of input. The grip features moisture-wicking technology to help you maintain control if you sweat a lot or it is hot out!
customer service
When you buy a paddle from Pickleball Central, you get a 30-day return policy and a one-year manufacturer's warranty.
Control
In contrast to the Rally Tyro 2, this version has a velvet textured face that can throw the ball effectively if you are wanting to try the chainsaw serve or make your enemy weep!
dimensions
Length: 15.57" | Width: 7.875" | Weight Range: 7.7oz - 8.0oz. | Handle Length 4.25" | Grip Circumference 4.375"
durability
A robust velvet texture face protects the paddle while also improving the sweet spot. The edge guard is adequate, and it will protect the paddle from the occasional scrape on the floor while reaching for a ball in the kitchen.
Power
This paddle includes a polypropylene honeycomb core, so unless you only care about power, the prolite illuminate 2.0 will have more than enough.
feel
Although this paddle weighs in on the heavier side at 7.6-8.0 oz., the feel is not bad if you do not have any wrist problems.
customer service
Prolite offers a 1 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty on all paddles from date of purchase. After that, they can only offer a one-time 25% off coupon code.
Control
Great control and spin capabilities due to the textured poly-carbonate surface.
dimensions
Length: 15 1/2" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight range: 7.6-8.0 oz. | Grip circumference 5” | Handle Circumference 4
durability
Prolite is a well known brand that manufactures some of the highest quality paddles on the market.
This is by far the best package deal for the price on the market. Pickleball Central was founded in 2006 and has made exceptional products in the industry ever since. Their customer service is unrivaled.
Power
This paddle definitely falls into the heavy category which means you can effortlessly carry the ball across the net. However, fatigue can set in after a long time of playing.
feel
This paddle has a slightly heavier feel at 8.4 ounces compared to the others we have listed. The Amazin' Aces features a Polymer core which is known to be the softest and quietest on the market.
customer service
The Pickleball to paddle set includes a one-year warranty. If you have a problem with one of their graphite paddles, they will fix or replace it without charge.
Control
This paddle definitely has a clunky feel to it and has decent playability until your hands get tired. The standard honeycomb core does help with dinging and vibrations.
dimensions
Weight: 8.4oz | Handle Length 4.75" | Grip Circumference 4 3/8"
durability
The graphite face is very strong; this paddle is a bulldozer.
Power
This paddle includes a polypropylene honeycomb core, so unless you only care about power, the prolite illuminate 2.0 will have more than enough.
feel
Although this paddle weighs in on the heavier side at 7.6-8.0 oz., the feel is not bad if you do not have any wrist problems.
customer service
Prolite offers a 1 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty on all paddles from date of purchase. After that, they can only offer a one-time 25% off coupon code.
Control
Great control and spin capabilities due to the textured poly-carbonate surface.
dimensions
Length: 15 1/2" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight range: 7.6-8.0 oz. | Grip circumference 5” | Handle Circumference 4
durability
Prolite is a well known brand that manufactures some of the highest quality paddles on the market.
This company has been around for a long time and have been great custodians for the Pickleball community. This premium graphite pickleball paddle is simple and traditional, and it comes with a good gift box and a mesh bag for carrying the items. You can’t go wrong, this paddle is a classic. If you don’t plan on entering any tournaments soon, this is a perfect paddle set to begin the Pickleball journey.
Power
The wide paddle face has a large sweet spot and is an easy shape for beginners to start using and allows them to swing through the ball with a lot of power at 8.0oz.
feel
The 4" grip on the Fusion 2.o pickleball paddle makes it ideal for small hands and the handle is Gamma's comfy honeycomb grip.
customer service
Gamma offers a one year manufacture defect warranty along with a 30 day refund policy.
Control
The widebody face is finished with a textured fiberglass face that gives the paddle good touch.
dimensions
Length: 16" | Width: 7.85" | Weight Range: 7.6oz - 8.0oz. | Handle Length 5.25" | Grip Circumference 4 1/4
durability
Gamma sports proudly makes their products in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. Gamma uses strong materials and they are known for their grips.
Power
This paddle includes a polypropylene honeycomb core, so unless you only care about power, the prolite illuminate 2.0 will have more than enough.
feel
Although this paddle weighs in on the heavier side at 7.6-8.0 oz., the feel is not bad if you do not have any wrist problems.
customer service
Prolite offers a 1 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty on all paddles from date of purchase. After that, they can only offer a one-time 25% off coupon code.
Control
Great control and spin capabilities due to the textured poly-carbonate surface.
dimensions
Length: 15 1/2" | Width: 7 3/4" | Weight range: 7.6-8.0 oz. | Grip circumference 5” | Handle Circumference 4
durability
Prolite is a well known brand that manufactures some of the highest quality paddles on the market.
This is a USAPA approved paddle that is well-made in the USA. Gamma sports have been around for 40+ years in the racket sports industry. Gamma also teamed up with Never Stop Playing Pickleball Camps to offer training all across the country if you are wanting to elevate your game quickly or just looking to meet other people in the Pickleball community.