Choosing the right pickleball paddle can feel like navigating a maze of carbon fiber, core thicknesses, and marketing promises.
Trust me, I get it.
After testing tons of paddles and spending countless hours on the court with players of all levels, I’ve learned that finding your perfect paddle match isn’t just about buying the most expensive or newest model on the market.
That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best pickleball paddles.
At Pickleball Pete’s Perspective, we don’t just hit a few balls and call it a day – we live and breathe this sport, and our recommendations come from hands on experience.
What makes our list different?
We’re not just looking at specs on paper. We’re considering how these paddles perform in every situation you’ll face on the court – dinks, drives, serves, resets, and everything in between. We’re looking at durability, value, and most importantly, how each paddle might help different types of players elevate their game.
Whether you’re a power player looking for your next weapon, a control specialist seeking precision, or a beginner who needs a reliable starter paddle that won’t break the bank, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to find your next paddle? Let’s get started with our top picks.
Let’s get started.
What Are The Best Pickleball Paddles?
- Best Overall: Selkirk VANGUARD Pro Invikta – The complete package of power, control, and versatility
- Best for Control & Precision: Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control 16mm – A control specialist’s dream with exceptional touch
- Best for Spin & Power: JOOLA Tyson McGuffin Magnus 3S 16mm – Pro-designed for aggressive play and serious spin
- Best Power-Control Hybrid: CRBN-2X Power Series – Perfect balance for players who want it all
- Best for Power & Defense: Volair Mach 2 Forza 14mm – Exceptional for both offensive strikes and defensive stability
- Best for Progressive Players: Engage Pursuit V2.0 – Ideal for players developing their all-court game
- Best for Pop: Paddletek Bantam TKO-C 12.7mm – Explosive energy return for players who love that crisp feel
- Best Premium Power: Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta – Cutting-edge technology meets raw power
- Best Under $100: ONIX Z5 Graphite – Proven performance that won’t break the bank
Best Overall Pickleball Paddle: Selkirk VANGUARD Pro Invikta
Quick Take: If you’re hunting for the ultimate all-court paddle that brings both finesse and firepower, the Selkirk VANGUARD Pro Invikta is my top pick. After countless hours on the court with this beast, I can confidently say it’s worth every penny for serious players looking to level up their game.
Why It’s My #1 Pick
- 16.45″ elongated design gives you extra reach without sacrificing control
- 4-layer carbon fiber face (not the usual 2) for insane power and durability
- Super-tacky Raw texture that actually lasts, unlike some competitors
- Perfect balance of control and pop for all playing styles
Tech Specs
- Length: 16.45″
- Face: 4-Layer 12K Raw Carbon Fiber
- Core: 16mm X5+ Polypropylene Honeycomb with foam perimeter
- Handle: 5.5″ octagonal grip
- Edge Guard: EdgeSentry DuraEdge
Real Talk from the Court
I love that this paddle can handle every shot in your arsenal. The 4-layer carbon face gives you that satisfying pop on power shots, but where it really shines is the control game. I can drop dinks with surgical precision and reset shots stay low and controlled – exactly what you want when you’re in the kitchen.
The 16mm core is the sweet spot for feel. It’s cushioned enough to give you great touch, but still lets you feel the ball on contact. That foam perimeter is clutch too – even if you catch the ball a bit off-center, you’re still getting decent power and control.
Who It’s Perfect For
- All-court players who don’t want to compromise
- Intermediate to advanced players looking to level up
- Players who love a longer paddle but need control
- Anyone tired of replacing paddles with wearing faces
The Bottom Line
Look, there are a lot of great paddles out there, but the VANGUARD Pro Invikta is the one I keep coming back to. It’s not the cheapest option, but for a serious player, it’s an investment that pays off every time you step on the court. The combination of modern tech, durability, and versatile performance makes it my top recommendation for 2024.
The elongated design might take a few games to get used to, but trust me – it’s worth the adjustment period. Once you dial in that extra reach, you’ll wonder how you ever played without it.
Best for Control & Precision: Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control 16mm
Quick Take: Just like its ski slope namesake, the Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control is for players who know exactly what they’re doing. After extensive testing, I can say this paddle is a control freak’s dream – in the best possible way. If you live for precise dinks and surgical shot placement, this is your new best friend.
Why It’s Our Control King
- Premium Toray 700K Raw Carbon face for exceptional touch
- Aerodynamic shape with variable width (7.5″ – 7.7″)
- Carbon Fusion Edge Technology for enhanced feedback
- Perfect balance of spin control and precision
- Advanced vibration dampening system
Tech Specs
- Length: 16.3″
- Weight: 7.9 – 8.3 oz (avg. 8.1 oz)
- Core: 16mm Polymer Honeycomb with foam edgewalls
- Face: Japanese Toray 700K Raw Carbon
- Handle: 5.5″ 3D Carbon Forged
- Grip: 4 1/4″ (Medium) Perforated Leather
Real Talk from the Court
The Double Black Diamond Control isn’t trying to be everything to everyone – and that’s exactly why it excels. The 16mm polymer core combined with the Raw Carbon face creates this beautiful sweet spot where you can feel exactly what the ball is doing. The dwell time is impressive, letting you really dig in and create nasty spin when you want it.
What really impressed me is the Carbon Fusion Edge Technology. It’s not just marketing talk – you can feel how it expands the sweet spot and helps maintain control even on off-center hits. The foam edgewalls are like having training wheels for your touch shots – they help, but they don’t take over.
Who It’s Perfect For
- Advanced players who prioritize control
- Touch players who love precise dinking
- Players who rely on spin and placement
- Those who prefer finesse over raw power
The Bottom Line
The Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control is a premium paddle that lives up to its expert-level name. While it’s not the most powerful paddle in my bag, it might be the most precise. The 16mm version offers slightly more control than its 14mm sibling, making it perfect for players who want to dictate the pace and placement of every shot.
The extra milliseconds of dwell time this paddle provides might seem subtle at first, but it’s a game-changer for players who love to mix up their shots. It’s like having an extra gear for spin and control that most paddles just can’t access.
Best for Spin & Power: JOOLA Tyson McGuffin Magnus 3S 16mm
Quick Take: When a top pro like Tyson McGuffin puts his name on a paddle, you expect something special. This updated version of his signature paddle delivers with a spin-friendly design that lets you put some serious sauce on your shots. Just note – it’s UPA-A approved but not eligible for USA Pickleball sanctioned events.
Why It’s Our Spin King
- Charged Carbon face with exceptional texture and grip
- Massive 11.5″ x 7.5″ hitting surface
- Short 5″ handle for maximum face real estate
- 16mm Propulsion Core with foam perimeter
- Pro-player influenced design tweaks
Tech Specs
- Length: 16.5″
- Weight: 7.9 – 8.3 oz (avg. 8.1 oz)
- Core: 16mm Propulsion Core (honeycomb + foam perimeter)
- Face: Charged Carbon
- Handle: 5.0″ with Feel-Tec Pure Grip
- Grip: 4 1/4″ (Medium)
Real Talk from the Court
This paddle is all about putting the ball on a string. The Charged Carbon face isn’t just marketing – you can feel the extra bite on the ball, especially on serves and drives. What really sets it apart is how the shorter handle and longer face work together. You get this incredible leverage for generating spin while maintaining excellent touch for dinks.
The refined 16mm Propulsion Core is a game-changer. It smooths out the power delivery while still letting you feel exactly what the ball is doing. The foam perimeter means even if you catch the ball off-center (which is harder to do with this massive sweet spot), you’re still getting solid feedback and control.
Who It’s Perfect For
- Players who love to dictate play with spin
- Those who prefer a shorter handle
- Aggressive players who mix power and finesse
- UPA tournament players (not for USAP events)
The Bottom Line
The Magnus 3S 16mm is like the sports car of pickleball paddles – it responds instantly to what you want to do with the ball. While it excels at generating spin and power, it doesn’t sacrifice control to get there. Just remember to check your tournament eligibility since it’s not currently USAP approved.
The shorter handle might feel strange at first, but give it time – that extra face real estate opens up shots you didn’t even know you had in your arsenal. This paddle rewards players who aren’t afraid to get creative with their spin game.
Best Power-Control Hybrid: CRBN-2X Power Series
Quick Take: Don’t let the “Power Series” name fool you – the CRBN-2X is the Swiss Army knife of pickleball paddles. It’s got the muscle when you need it, but what really sets it apart is how it balances that power with exceptional control. After extensive testing, I can say this paddle truly delivers on finding that sweet spot between pop and precision.
Why It’s Our Balanced Champion
- Wide 8″ face creates an enormous sweet spot
- Raw T700 Carbon Fiber face for superior feel
- Foam-injected edges reduce energy loss
- Available in both 14mm and 16mm cores
- One-piece design enhances overall stability
Tech Specs
- Length: 15.75″
- Weight: 7.8 – 8.1 oz (avg. 8.0 oz)
- Core: Polypropylene Honeycomb with foam-injected edges
- Face: Raw T700 Carbon Fiber
- Handle: 5″ with Perforated Comfort Grip
- Grip: 4 1/8″ (Small)
Real Talk from the Court
What makes the CRBN-2X special is its ability to shape-shift based on how you play it. Need to reset a hard drive? The control’s there. See an opening for a put-away? It’s got the pop. The textured carbon fiber face gives you plenty of spin potential, while the foam-injected edges help maintain control even on off-center hits.
The shorter, wider design compared to the CRBN-1X creates this massive sweet spot that’s incredibly forgiving. You get solid feedback on every shot, which is crucial when you’re trying to mix up your game between power and finesse. The one-piece construction means every bit of energy you put into your shots gets transferred to the ball – no wasted motion.
Who It’s Perfect For
- All-around players who don’t want to compromise
- Players transitioning from control to power paddles
- Those who like to mix up their game style
- Players who value consistency across all shot types
The Bottom Line
The CRBN-2X Power Series manages to thread the needle between power and control in a way few paddles can match. Whether you go with the 14mm (slightly more pop) or 16mm (extra control) version, you’re getting a paddle that can hang with the big hitters while still letting you play a precise game when needed.
While most paddles force you to choose between power or control, this one lets you have both. It’s like having two paddles in one – just trust your instincts and the paddle will deliver whatever shot you’re going for.
Best for Power & Defense: Volair Mach 2 Forza 14mm
Quick Take: The Volair Mach 2 Forza 14mm is like having a power hitter’s mindset with a defender’s toolkit. The thinner 14mm core gives it more pop than its 16mm sibling, but what really sets it apart is how it maintains control when you need to shift from offense to defense. After extensive playtesting, I can say this paddle excels at both ending points and extending rallies.
Why It’s Our Power-Defense Pick
- Extra-wide 8.125″ face for maximum coverage
- Thinner 14mm core for enhanced power
- Raw T700 Carbon Fiber face for spin control
- Innovative foam edge wall technology
- Thermoformed unibody construction
Tech Specs
- Length: 15.875″
- Weight: 7.8 – 8.1 oz (avg. 7.9 oz)
- Core: 14mm Polypropylene Honeycomb with injected foam edges
- Face: Raw T700 Carbon Fiber
- Handle: 5.5″ with Cushion Performance Grip
- Grip: 4 1/8″ (Small)
Real Talk from the Court
What impresses me most about the Mach 2 Forza 14mm is its versatility in different court positions. Playing back, you’ve got the power to drive balls deep with authority. Up at the net, that wide body gives you incredible coverage for blocks and resets.
The 14mm core is the secret sauce here – it’s noticeably more powerful than the 16mm version, but the injected foam edge wall keeps things controlled. You get this beautiful combination of pop and stability that lets you defend against hard shots and then transition immediately to offense. The gritty Raw T700 face gives you that extra bite on the ball for generating spin when you need it.
Who It’s Perfect For
- Players who like to mix defense and power
- Those who appreciate a wider paddle face
- Aggressive baseliners who still want net control
- Players transitioning from tennis (great stability)
The Bottom Line
The Volair Mach 2 Forza 14mm is a transformer of a paddle – it can shift from defensive specialist to power player in a split second. The wide body and foam edge technology give you confidence to handle any shot that comes your way, while the thinner core ensures you’ve got the pop to end points when the opportunity presents itself.
Don’t let the “power” designation fool you – this paddle’s defensive capabilities are equally impressive. That extra paddle width might only be fractions of an inch, but you’ll feel the difference when you’re trying to defend against hard drives or control those kitchen battles.
Best for Progressive Players: Engage Pursuit V2.0 Carbon Fiber
Quick Take: The Engage Pursuit V2.0 is like the perfect training partner for players ready to elevate their game. With its forgiving sweet spot and balanced performance, it helps develop touch and power while rewarding good technique. After extensive testing, I’ve found this paddle particularly shines for players who are actively working on expanding their shot arsenal.
Why It’s Our Progressive Pick
- Balanced 16.25″ hybrid length teaches proper reach
- Amplified Carbon face offers excellent feedback
- Forgiving 15.2mm core helps build confidence
- Well-rounded performance across all shots
- Sweet spot that rewards good technique
Tech Specs
- Length: 16.25″
- Weight: 7.8 – 8.2 oz (avg. 8.0 oz)
- Core: 15.2mm Black Control+ Polymer
- Face: Amplified Carbon Surface
- Handle: 5.3″ with Ultra Perforated Cushion grip
- Grip: 4 1/4″ (Medium)
Real Talk from the Court
What makes the Pursuit V2.0 perfect for developing players is its predictable, consistent response. The Amplified Carbon face gives you honest feedback – when you hit it right, you know it, and when you don’t, it lets you know that too. But it’s not unforgiving; the sweet spot is generous enough to build confidence while you’re working on your game.
The 15.2mm Black Control+ Polymer core is particularly well-suited for players expanding their shot selection. It’s responsive enough to help you develop touch for dinks and resets, while still providing the pop you need as you learn to put more pace on the ball. The balanced feel helps you develop proper mechanics for every shot in your arsenal.
Who It’s Perfect For
- Players transitioning from recreational to competitive play
- Those focusing on developing all-court skills
- Players working to add finesse to their power game
- Athletes looking to improve shot consistency
The Bottom Line
The Engage Pursuit V2.0 is the ideal paddle for players serious about improving their game. It’s not just about what this paddle can do today – it’s about how it can help develop your skills for tomorrow. The combination of forgiveness and feedback creates the perfect learning environment for players ready to take their game to the next level.
This paddle grows with you. The more your technique improves, the more you’ll discover what it can do. It’s like having a coach in paddle form – it rewards good habits and helps you identify areas for improvement.
Best for Pop: Paddletek Bantam TKO-C 12.7mm
Quick Take: If you’re hunting for that perfect “pop” off the paddle face, the Paddletek Bantam TKO-C 12.7mm is your holy grail. With its ultra-thin 12.7mm core, this American-made paddle gives you that satisfying snap on every shot. After extensive testing, I can say the energy return on this paddle is absolutely explosive – it’s like having a little extra juice in your back pocket whenever you need it.
Why It’s Our Pop Champion
- Ultra-thin 12.7mm core maximizes energy return
- American-made PT-700 Raw Carbon face for clean contact
- Lightweight design (avg. 7.9 oz) enhances snap
- Perfect balance of power and response
- Made in USA precision construction
Tech Specs
- Length: 16.45″
- Weight: 7.7 – 8.1 oz (avg. 7.9 oz)
- Core: 12.7mm Bantam Polymer Honeycomb
- Face: PT-700 Unidirectional Raw Carbon Fiber
- Handle: 5.3″ with Ultra Cushion High Tack grip
- Grip: 4 1/4″ (Medium)
Real Talk from the Court
The magic of the TKO-C is in that paper-thin 12.7mm core. When you hit the sweet spot, you get this incredible energy transfer that makes the ball absolutely jump off the paddle. Put-aways feel effortless, drives have extra zip, and even basic returns seem to carry more pace.
The American-made PT-700 Raw Carbon face complements the thin core perfectly. Together, they create this beautiful combination where you get both explosive pop and excellent feel for the ball. The unidirectional carbon fiber gives you consistent feedback, so you can really dial in your shots and trust the response you’re going to get.
Who It’s Perfect For
- Players who love that crisp, responsive feel
- Those who want maximum energy return
- Aggressive players looking for easy power
- Anyone tired of paddles that feel “dead”
The Bottom Line
If you’ve ever wished your shots had just a little more juice behind them, the Bantam TKO-C 12.7mm is your answer. It’s like having a power-up in paddle form. Just note that if you prefer a more dampened feel, you might want to check out the 14.3mm version instead.
The first time you connect cleanly with this paddle, you’ll understand what all the fuss is about. That pop is addictive – it’s like the paddle is doing half the work for you. Just be prepared for your partners to ask what you’ve been eating for breakfast when they see those drives flying by!
Best Premium Power Paddle: Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta
Quick Take: The VANGUARD Power Air Invikta isn’t just another power paddle – it’s Selkirk’s masterclass in paddle engineering. This thing is like having a rocket launcher in paddle form. After years of testing various models, this one continues to set the standard for what a premium power paddle should be.
Why It’s Our Premium Power King
- Innovative Aero-DuraEdge edgeless design
- Hybrid face combining carbon fiber and Fiberflex
- ProSpin+ NextGen texture for enhanced spin
- Air Dynamic Throat reduces wind resistance
- FlexFoam perimeter for consistent performance
Tech Specs
- Length: 16.5″
- Weight: 7.7 – 8.1 oz (avg. 7.9 oz)
- Core: Polymer Honeycomb with FlexFoam perimeter
- Face: Hybrid Carbon Fiber/Fiberflex blend
- Handle: 5.25″ with Selkirk Geo Grip
- Grip: 4 1/4″ (Medium)
Real Talk from the Court
The Power Air Invikta is what happens when engineers get to go wild with paddle design. That edgeless construction isn’t just for looks – you can feel the difference in swing speed. The Air Dynamic Throat actually cuts through the air noticeably faster than traditional designs, giving you that extra whip on shots.
What really sets this paddle apart is how it combines raw power with finesse. The hybrid face material is genius – you get the control of carbon fiber with the pop of fiberglass. Add in that ProSpin+ texture, and you’ve got a paddle that can generate serious spin while still absolutely crushing put-away shots.
Who It’s Perfect For
- Advanced players who prioritize power
- Those willing to invest in cutting-edge tech
- Players who love an edgeless design
- Power players who still need touch for the soft game
The Bottom Line
The VANGUARD Power Air Invikta represents the pinnacle of power paddle design. Yes, it’s a premium investment, but you’re getting Selkirk’s most advanced technologies in one package. Just remember to add some edge protection tape – this beauty needs a little TLC to stay pristine.
There’s a reason this paddle has stayed at the top of rankings for so long. The power is obvious from the first hit, but it’s the control that keeps you coming back. It’s like having a sports car that’s actually comfortable to drive daily.
Best Under $100: ONIX Z5 Graphite
Quick Take: Looking for proof that you don’t need to spend big money to get a solid paddle? The ONIX Z5 Graphite has been converting skeptics for years. After seeing countless players at all levels succeed with this paddle, I can confidently say it’s the best value in pickleball. It’s a no-frills classic that simply gets the job done.
Why It’s Our Budget Champion
- Wide 8-1/8″ face for generous sweet spot
- Classic graphite face for consistent feel
- Traditional Nomex honeycomb core
- Time-tested design that just works
- Proven tournament performance history
Tech Specs
- Length: 15.5″
- Weight: 7.5 – 8.2 oz (avg. 7.9 oz)
- Core: Nomex honeycomb
- Face: Woven Graphite
- Handle: 5″ with Perforated Cushion Grip
- Grip: 4 1/4″ (Medium)
Real Talk from the Court
Sometimes the classics are classics for a reason. The Z5 doesn’t try to wow you with fancy features – it just delivers reliable performance hit after hit. That wide 8-1/8″ face is incredibly forgiving, making this an excellent choice for players still working on consistent contact points.
The graphite face and Nomex core combination might be traditional, but it provides the kind of consistent, predictable response that helps you develop your game. There’s a reason you’ll spot this paddle at every level of play, from beginners to advanced tournaments – it flat out works.
Who It’s Perfect For
- New players wanting quality without breaking the bank
- Recreational players seeking reliability
- Budget-conscious tournament players
- Anyone wanting a solid backup paddle
The Bottom Line
The ONIX Z5 Graphite proves that great pickleball doesn’t have to cost a fortune. While it may lack some of the cutting-edge features of premium paddles, it delivers where it counts: reliable performance, good feel, and remarkable durability. It’s the kind of paddle that reminds us why we fell in love with the game in the first place.
When players ask me where to start, this is often my go-to recommendation. Not because it’s cheap, but because it’s honest – what you see is what you get. No gimmicks, just solid performance that lets you focus on developing your game.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Perfect Paddle
Remember, the “best” paddle is ultimately the one that fits your game. Consider these factors when making your choice:
- Your playing style (power player, control specialist, all-court player)
- Your skill level and where you want to take your game
- Your budget and how often you play
- The types of shots you love to hit
- Any physical considerations (arm fatigue, joint issues, etc.)
Looking Forward
Pickleball paddle technology continues to evolve rapidly, and we’re seeing exciting innovations in materials, core designs, and face textures. While these advances are fantastic for the sport, remember that no paddle is going to transform your game overnight. Focus on finding a paddle that feels like an extension of your arm and gives you confidence in your shots.
After years of testing paddles and working with players of all levels, I’ve learned that the best paddle isn’t always the most expensive or the newest model – it’s the one that makes you excited to get out on the court. Take your time with the selection process, and when possible, demo paddles before buying. Your perfect paddle match is out there!
Stay tuned for our regular updates as new paddles hit the market. The pickleball world moves fast, and we’re here to help you stay on top of the latest and greatest in paddle technology.
Game on!
What Are The Different Types of Pickleball Paddles?
Pickleball Paddle Materials
- Fiberglass Pickleball Paddles: These paddles have a smooth surface that allows for a good amount of spin and accuracy. They are durable and often used by intermediate to advanced players.
- Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles: Known for being a lighter paddle that is strong, carbon fiber paddles offer excellent responsiveness and control. They are usually more expensive than other types but are favored by many professional players.
- Graphite Pickleball Paddles: Graphite paddles are extremely popular due to their lightweight and high durability. They provide superior touch and are preferred by players of all skill levels.
- Composite Pickleball Paddles: A composite paddle is a type of paddle that’s made from a blend of different materials, often offering a balance between power and control. Composite paddles are a popular choice among players of all skill levels due to this combination of power and control and offer a nice mid weight pickleball paddle.
- Wooden Pickleball Paddles: Wooden paddles are the original material. Wooden paddles are heavier and less responsive than other materials but can be a cost-effective option for beginners.
- Hybrid Pickleball Paddles: Hybrid pickleball paddles combine different materials to take advantage of the benefits of each. For example, a paddle might have a graphite core for lightness and touch, with a fiberglass surface for power and spin.
Different Paddle Shapes
- Standard Pickleball Paddles: These pickleball paddles have a traditional shape that offers a good balance of power and control.
- Elongated Paddles: These pickleball paddles are longer and narrower, which can enhance reach and control but may sacrifice some power. Tennis players typically like the elongated shape while they play pickleball.
- Wide-Body Paddles: These pickleball paddles have a wider hitting surface, which can enhance power and make it easier to hit the ball, but they can be more difficult to maneuver.
Each shape of pickleball paddle has its advantages and disadvantages, so the best one for you depends on your playing style and preferences.
Looking for an entire pickleball set to get started? Check our list of the best pickleball paddles sets under $100!
