I’m not kidding when I say that pickleball is my obsession. I’ve been playing this incredible sport for nearly for years, and have seen how it’s evolved and expanded over time. Pickleball is a sport that allows you to express yourself in many ways. You can always have fun and pick up new talents from other people while trying various methods, approaches, and abilities. I know how much the paddle matters in this fast-paced game. But finding the one for you can be a pain, as there are many top pickleball paddles so out there.
As a pickleball lover, I’ve tried several paddles over the years and learned a lot about what makes up a good paddle. I’ve also realized that there is no one-size-fits-all paddle since each paddle has unique characteristics and benefits. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of what are the top pickleball paddles in the market today that I’ve personally tested and loved. These paddles are not only high-quality and powerful, but they also offer unique characteristics that set them apart from other paddles.
My Top Pickleball Paddles Picks
Here is a list of the top pickleball paddles from top pickleball paddle brands:
1. ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle
Introducing the ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle, a great choice for players of all skill levels. This paddle, designed by the famous company ONIX, provides great touch and control, making it the ideal racket for both beginners and expert players.
With a tennis handle design for improved comfort, a Nomex Honeycomb Core for accurate ball control, and USAPA/USA Pickleball authorization, the Z5 hits the ideal blend of power and elegance.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle guarantees a winning game with its professional design and tournament-ready features – where performance meets precision on the court.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight | Dead spots near the edges of the paddle |
| Wider body surface for a bigger sweet spot | Grip needed to be re-taped |
| Good power with some spin |
ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle
- Leading Pickleball Manufacturer – Onix
- Most Popular Paddle
- Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle
- Spectacular Touch and Control
- Tennis Handle Shape
- Comfortable to Use
- Approved by Usapa and Usa Pickleball
2. Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle
Improve your pickleball prowess with the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle, a top choice for avid fans. USA Pickleball has approved this paddle for competitors’ play, and its dual-plated aluminum surface delivers precision and power with each swing.
Weighing 10.7 ounces, it provides the ideal mix between control and power, with a form-fitting non-slip grip handle for maximum comfort. Plus, with a protective plastic covering, this paddle is built to withstand the most intense rallies, assuring longevity on the court.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle guarantees an improved playing experience for all skill levels – your ticket to pickleball success.
| Pros | Cons |
| Comfortable grip | A relatively heavy paddle |
| Durable design | |
| Optimized for power shots |
Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle
- Approved by Usapa and Usa Pickleball
- Comfort Grip
- Made with a Dual Plated Aluminum Surface
- Accurate, Powerful Shot
- Constructed with a Plastic Surrounding
- Paddle Weight: 10.7-11oz
3. Amazin’ Aces Signature Pickleball Paddle
The Amazin’ Aces Signature Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice that provides unparalleled performance. This paddle is precisely built with a high-performance honeycomb polymer core and a sensitive graphite face, striking the ideal mix of power and control.
The kit, which is USAPA-approved for tournament play, comes with two paddles, four balls, two paddle covers, and a compact carry bag, giving you everything you need for an amazing pickleball experience. Amazin’ Aces provides a strong 1-year warranty to protect your faith in the product’s longevity and quality, ensuring an unforgettable pickleball journey.
| Pros | Cons |
| Comfortable gripped handle | Slightly head-heavy paddle |
| Solid graphite face for precise control of shots | Grip is not as comfortable as other paddles |
| Attractive blue honeycomb pattern with logo on the face |
Amazin’ Aces Signature Pickleball Paddle
- Superior Quality & Performance
- Combines Cutting-Edge Technology
- High-Quality Materials
- Honeycomb Polymer Core & the Responsive Graphite Face
4. JOOLA Journey Pickleball Paddle
Meet the revolutionary JOOLA Journey Pickleball Paddle, designed by the well-known table tennis pioneer JOOLA. This fiberglass masterpiece, designed in partnership with world number one pickleball player Ben Johns and the PPA Tour, adds more pop and power to your shots and is perfect for both beginners and seasoned players.
The paddle’s Response Polymer Core offers decreased vibration, better control, and exceptional longevity, while the Black Feel-Tec Pure Grip technology provides a pleasant, fatigue-free playing experience. The JOOLA Journey, with its lightweight design and attractive alternatives, allows you to upgrade your pickleball game through innovation and flair.
| Pros | Cons |
| Balanced performance | Experienced players will want a textured paddle surface that offers more spin |
| Durable construction | |
| Well-suited for beginners and mid-level players |
JOOLA Journey Pickleball Paddle
- Official Paddle Sponsor of World #1 Pickleball Player Ben Johns
- Fiberglass Graphite Surface
- Get More Performance & Durabililty
- Response Polymer Core
- Black Feel-Tec Pure Grip Technology
- Pickleball Paddle for Adults & Kids
- Swing with Confidence and Comfort
5. Professor PhD Raw Carbon Fiber Premium Pickleball Paddle Racket
The Professor PhD Raw Carbon Fibre Premium Pickleball Paddle can help you improve your pickleball performance. This paddle, made of Toray T-700 carbon fiber, has a high spin rate for accurate ball placement. Its precisely balanced, feather-light design, along with a 5 1/2-inch handle and 16mm thickness, achieves the optimal mix of power and control. What distinguishes the Professor PhD is not just its superior performance, but also its affordable price. Professor Pickleball delivers top-tier quality at an amazing price, making it the paddle of choice for players of all skill levels. Upgrade your equipment for a new level of accuracy and power on the pickleball court.
| Pros | Cons |
| Perfectly balanced paddle | White grip gets dirty easily |
| Super light yet firm feel | |
| Affordable price |
Professor PhD Raw Carbon Fiber Premium Pickleball Paddle Racket
- Raw Carbon Face
- More Spin Your Balls
- Perfectly Balanced
- Longer Handle- 5 1/2 Inch
- Perfect Thickness to Get Amazing Power
- Highest Quality & Best Performing Paddle
6. Brooklyn Pickleball Co
In the world of pickleball, having a high-quality paddle is vital for reaching your best playing potential. Meet the game changer: “The McCarren” by Brooklyn Pickleball Co. Crafted in 2021 by pickleball fans Luke and Rachel, this paddle is more than simply a tool; it’s a statement.
With a 13mm size, a comfortable 4.1-inch grip, and a lightweight carbon fiber construction, “The McCarren” is ideal for both advanced and beginner players, giving you an edge over your opponent.
As you prepare for your pickleball adventure, let this Brooklyn masterpiece change your playing experience with its original design and unparalleled elegance. It’s more than just a paddle; it’s the key to changing your game!
| Pros | Cons |
| Premium quality | Isn’t great for adding spin |
| Lightweight | Dampened around the edges |
| perfect for any level of players |
Brooklyn Pickleball Co
- Size: 13mm
- Brand: Brooklyn Pickleball Co.
- Grip Size: 4.1 inches
- Sport: Pickleball
- Material: Carbon Fiber
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Beginner
- Frame Material: Carbon Fiber
- Item Weight: 7.44 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 15.9″L x 7.9″W
7. Paddletek Bantam EX-L Pickleball Paddle
The Paddletek Bantam EX-L stands out as a top-tier pickleball paddle, offering a winning mix of durability and performance. Its high-quality polymer composite honeycomb core, along with a 1/8″ edged shock guard, assures consistent and silent play, while the innovative Bantam PolyCore inside gives a large sweet spot for powerful and precise shots.
The paddle is designed for comfort and control, with an ultra-cushion, high-tack performance grip that absorbs vibrations during powerful rallies. The lightweight design, meticulously balanced for optimal weight distribution, increases power while maintaining accuracy.
With its trendy Barium (Green) color, the Bantam EX-L stands out on the court and carries USAPA approval, making it a trustworthy and creative option for players seeking a top-notch pickleball experience.
| Pros | Cons |
| High end, balanced performance | More advanced players might like a specialized paddle instead |
| Rugged construction | |
| Velvet surface texture provides reliable spin |
Paddletek Bantam EX-L Pickleball Paddle
- Professional Pickleball Paddle
- Honeycomb Core
- Polycarbonate Surface
- Bantom Polycore
- High Tack Performance Grip
- Usapa Approved
8. Vanguard Power Air Invikta
Despite the high price tag, the Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Pickleball Paddle is a game changer, providing precision and finesse with each swing. Weighing only 299 grams, this carbon fiber paddle belies its lightweight nature owing to the revolutionary QuadFlex 4-Layer Hybrid Face, which provides unrivaled rigidity and power.
The Vanguard Power Air is designed for power players who value both control and a lightweight feel. It has an edgeless design, ThroatFlex technology, and a premium extended grip. This paddle glides smoothly through the air, offering greater thrust without the weight of a heavier option. The Selkirk Vanguard Power Air, with its expanded sweet spot and textured face for constant angles, stands out as the go-to pick for player’s desire for top-tier performance without compromise.
| Pros | Cons |
| Designed for aggressive power shots and maximum spin | This is a particularly pricey pickleball paddle |
| Aerodynamic design slices through the air for speedier shots | |
| Extremely durable |
Vanguard Power Air Invikta
- Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
- Quadflex 4 Layer Hybrid Face
- 360 Proto Molding & Flexfoam Perimeter
- the Pickleball Paddle Designed for Ultimate Power & Control
9. Niupipo Pickleball Paddles
This top-rated pickleball package not only includes two high-quality paddles, a compact carrying bag, two rolls of grip tape, and four balls, but it is also a great deal. What distinguishes these paddles is their famed USAPA (USA Pickleball) accreditation, which ensures superior quality and performance.
These paddles are available in a variety of vivid and fun designs, with an emphasis on comfort and maximum power in every shot. Niupipo paddles are ideal for both beginners and advanced players, since they are not only robust and lightweight, but also adaptable, providing consistent spin and control owing to their textured fiberglass faces. Despite their low pricing, the durability and great performance of these top rated pickleball paddles make them a must-try for amateurs to the game.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight, yet durable | Some users report about limited control |
| Well-balanced paddle for all skill levels | |
| A huge variety of color options is available |
Niupipo Pickleball Paddles
- Fiberglass Surface
- Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
- Cushion Grip
- Lightweight Pickleball
- Portable Carry Bag
10. HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle
Intermediate players seeking a pickleball paddle with power and control can pick this black and yellow model. Its dynamic power design and thick core create a wider sweet spot and good playability, while the HEAD Radical Elite’s smooth fiberglass surface provides a superb feel and power for the competitive player.
In addition to its durability and lightweight design, the paddle has a redesigned Ergo Grip that lowers vibration and gives a pleasant grip. Its face also feels “responsive,” allowing strong players to smash, lob, and drive the ball while outplaying their opponents.
The paddle weighs 8.1 ounces and is perfect for intermediate players seeking a blend of power and control. The paddle is 16 inches long and 7 7/8 inches wide, providing enough coverage and reach. The paddle features a 4 1/4-inch grip, which is comfortable for most hands. The HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is one of the best paddles on the market for intermediate players looking to enjoy the game of pickleball with power and control.
| Pros | Cons |
| Perfect for the intermediate player | Slightly heavier than what I am used to playing with at 8 ounces. |
| The fiberglass hitting surface and polymer honeycomb core combination provide stability | |
| Offers a great balance between power and control |
HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle
- Head Performance
- Lightweight Pickleball Paddles
- Fiberglass Hitting Surface
- Intermediate Level
- Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
- New Ergo Grip
My Recommendation
The ONIX Graphite Z5 is my top choice since I’ve been playing pickleball for years. It offers a smooth feel, a sturdy surface, and an excellent mix of power and control. I adore this paddle and definitely suggest it to anybody looking to enjoy the game of pickleball. The ONIX Graphite Z5 paddle is flexible and suitable for a variety of play styles. It features a broad body shape, which results in a huge sweet spot and consistent response. If you want a pickleball paddle that is inexpensive and gentle on your arm, I highly recommend the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle.
FAQs
The Onix Graphite Z5 and the Selkirk Invikta are popular choices for novices. These paddles provide a blend of power and control.
The appropriate weight varies, but many players choose paddles weighing between 7.3 and 8.4 ounces to provide a decent blend of power and maneuverability.
Paddle longevity varies, however, if you see notable wear, delamination, or a lack of performance, it’s time to consider a replacement, which should happen every 1-2 years for frequent players.