f you’re an intermediate pickleball player, your pickleball paddle matters more now than it did when you first started. As your skills improve, you’ll notice the difference between a pickleball paddle that simply gets the ball over the net and one that gives you better control, more power, and added confidence on the court.
The good news? Pickleball paddle technology has come a long way. Manufacturers are constantly introducing new materials, core designs, and surface textures that make today’s paddles more forgiving, more consistent, and better suited for players looking to take the next step.
The challenge is figuring out which ones are actually worth buying. With so many new models hitting the market every year, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
To help narrow it down, we’ve researched, compared, and evaluated the top options available today. Here are our picks for the 17 best pickleball paddles for intermediate players.
What are the Best Pickleball Paddles For Intermediate Players?
Best Overall: Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddle
The ONIX Z5 has been one of the best pickleball paddles for years, and for good reason. It’s an excellent all-around paddle that offers a balanced blend of power, control, and forgiveness, making it a favorite among players at every skill level.
While you’ll often see the Z5 recommended for beginners and advanced players alike, we think it really shines for intermediate players. If you’re ready to move beyond your first paddle, the Z5 delivers noticeable improvements in touch, consistency, and overall feel without requiring a huge adjustment.
One of our favorite features is its tennis-style handle. If you have a tennis background, the grip feels instantly familiar, making the transition to pickleball much more natural.
The Z5 features a durable Nomex honeycomb core paired with a graphite face, creating a responsive paddle that performs well in just about every situation. Weighing between 7.5 and 8.2 ounces, it falls into the light-to-midweight category, giving you a nice combination of maneuverability, power, and control.
It also comes in a variety of color options, so you can choose one that matches your style while enjoying one of the most trusted paddles in the game.
Onix Z5 Pros
Onix Z5 Cons
Runner Up: CRBN2 16mm
CRBN has built a strong reputation for producing high-performance pickleball paddles, and the CRBN 2 is one of our favorite choices for intermediate players. It offers an outstanding blend of control, touch, and just enough power to help you continue developing your game.
Featuring a standard paddle shape and handle length, the CRBN 2 feels comfortable right from the start, making it an easy transition if you’re upgrading from an entry-level paddle. Its balanced design works well for players who want a paddle that performs consistently in every aspect of the game.
The paddle features a T700 raw carbon fiber face, which provides excellent spin and a responsive feel, paired with a polypropylene honeycomb core that delivers a soft touch while maintaining solid power. At 7.8–8.1 ounces, it offers a maneuverable midweight feel that works well at both the kitchen line and the baseline.
If you’re looking for a versatile paddle that can grow with your game, the CRBN 2 is an excellent choice for intermediate players and one you won’t outgrow anytime soon.
CRBN2 Pros
CRBN2 Cons
#3: Electrum Model E 16mm
Electrum is just a solid name in pickleball. Maybe not the most well-known but certainly well respected. They make really nice paddles.
The Model E in our opinion is really nicely geared for the intermediate player. This pickleball paddle is slightly heavier coming in at an average of 8-8.5 ounces. It is an elongated paddle so you get nice reach and also has a 5 1/4 inch handle length which can give you room if you use two-handed backhands.
A 16mm polypropylene core thickness and a super gritty Raw carbon fiber face allows for some nice spin on this baby. A very good do-it-all paddle. This was Collin Johns pickleball paddle of choice before he made the switch to Joola.
A very nice pickleball paddle that you know will play well consistently with its nice large sweet spot. You can play with confidence with this paddle. I have not talked to too many people who do not like this paddle as it is very nice to play with as an all-around paddle.
Overall, the Electrum Model E 16mm seems to be a great option for players who value control and touch, especially in the soft game. However, players who prioritize power and speed in their play style might find some limitations with this paddle.
Model E Pros
Model E Cons
#4: SLK EVO Power 2.0 XL
SLK by Selkirk recently came out with the EVO line for this exact purpose. The intermediate player at a great competitive price point. This pickleball paddle comes in the XL or Max size. The XL is slightly longer with a thinner face and the Max is shorter with a wider face. The XL also gets you a much longer handle so if you are a two-hander this is your paddle.
The SLK EVO Power XL paddle is great for a tennis player transitioning over to pickleball. Someone who has racket sport experience so not a true beginner to the game. It is powerful with its carbon fiber face and provides good spin which is something we see from a lot of tennis players.
The core is on the thinner side at 13mm, but that is where you get that power from! The paddle weighs between 7.8 oz and 8.2 oz.
The best part about these paddles? They are $100. A Selkirk backed pickleball paddle coming in at $100 is a major win!
These points highlight that the SLK EVO 2.0 XL Power paddle is well-suited for intermediate players looking for control and a large sweet spot, with a spin-friendly surface and comfortable grip. However, players who prefer a pickleball paddle that is quicker in hand or with more power in short-range shots might find some limitations.
SLK EVO Pros
SLK EVO Cons
#5: Selkirk SLK HALO Max Control
The Selkirk SLK HALO Max is consistent among all the best pickleball paddles list. This pickleball paddle could quite literally take you all the way from beginner to experienced. I think the sweet spot for this paddle is intermediate and above. The consistent play and control of this paddle are what I think makes it really stand out.
I chose the Control paddle, which is the 16mm core, because for intermediate players I think gaining excellent control on your shot placement and dinks is what will really take you to the next level.
This pickleball paddle weighs in at an average of 7.6 oz to 8.2 oz. It has a T700 Raw Carbon fiber face for control and spin, again something that I think takes the intermediate player to the next level.
In summary, the Selkirk SLK Halo Max Control picklball paddle is a solid choice for intermediate players looking for a good balance of control and power, with a decent spin and a large sweet spot. However, players looking for maximum power or spin, or who prefer paddles with more advanced features, might want to consider other options.
SLK Halo Pros
SLK Halo Cons
#6: Selkirk LUXX Control Air S2
Amazing control in this paddle! This pickleball paddle is endorsed by former tennis pro Jack Sock. This baby comes with a 20mm core! Yes, 20mm! Control galore with this paddle and don’t forget about the great spin too! This paddle could easily be and probably will land on our best pickleball paddles for advanced players list as well!
This pickleball paddle uses the new Florek Carbon Fiber technology for a large sweet spot, tons of control and spin. This paddle also incorporates the airdynamic throat for less drag and quicker swing speed. Very large sweet spot for amazing control and fewer mishits. And, this pickleball paddle is assembled right here in the USA.
Overall, the Selkirk LUXX Control Air S2 is highly regarded for its control and touch, with improved pop and spin compared to earlier models.
Luxx Pros
Luxx Cons
#7: Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control 14mm
This is a very popular pickleball paddle among the intermediate players I see out there. A very good control paddle and very good spin. The pickleball paddle has a slightly flared shape to it which gives it a larger sweet spot. It might take some getting used to at first but when you do you will notice the difference.
Very good grip on the face with the carbon textured surface and also has a really nice pop we noticed. The core is a premium honeycomb polymer core.
It has a long 5.5-inch handle for good grip and room enough for two-handed backhands. The average weight of this pickleball paddle comes in at 8.1 ounces.
The Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control 14mm is a versatile paddle, offering a balance of control, power, and spin. However, players used to a more control-oriented play might need some time to adjust, and the grip quality could be a concern for some.
Six Zero Pros
Six Zero Cons
#8: Joola Vision CGS
Specifically designed for the aggressive intermediate player, the Vision CGS is a very good paddle. Joola is making some of the best pickleball paddles on the market today and scooping up the best players in the game like Ben Johns, Collin Johns and Simone Jardim just to name a few. While they are choosing pickleball paddles like the Hyperion and Perseus, the Vision fits perfectly in the intermediate level as well as the “intermediate” price level.
Exceptional spin on this pickleball paddle, which is common from Joola. The 16mm core gave us nice control and still has decent power. Not the most powerful out there but the spin and control were great. Nice 5.5-inch handle length and a slightly lighter 7.8-ounce weight.
As with the Perseus, you notice the new head shape that is slightly curved. Joola claims less drag creating more swing speed. Can’t say that I noticed that in particular, but overall really like this paddle, like I do with most Joola paddles I play with.
In conclusion, the Joola Vision CGS is great for its control, lightweight design, and spin capabilities but may come at a higher price and potentially with less power than some alternatives. It’s a great choice for those who value control and precision in their game, but those looking for more power.
Vision Pros
Vision Cons
#9: GAMMA Obsidian 13mm
The Gamma shape is similar to the Six Zero we reviewed earlier. The tapered profile of the head gives you that larger sweet spot and you could feel it. Rarely a mishit when we used it. The paddle is very easy to maneuver at the net which was partly due to its lighter weight at 7.7 ounces.
Spin was great on this paddle and with the 13mm core we chose, the power was great! The 5.75-inch handle length was appreciated by those who like a little longer handle.
It’s a solid paddle and we love the look too!
In summary, the GAMMA Obsidian 13mm is a solid option for players looking for a maneuverable, lightweight paddle with a comfortable grip and good spin capabilities.
Obsidian Pros
Obsidian Cons
#10: Engage Encore MX 6.0
The Engage Encore MX 6.0 is a super popular paddle and for good reason. You get very good power and reach from this paddle yet maintain the control that intermediate players need. The long 6-inch handle is awesome if you like two-handed backhands or just extra room to extend a finger for comfort. But if you don’t like a longer handle, then this one is not for you.
A nice midweight paddle at 8 ounces, we felt comfortable with it all over the court. From dinks to drives you can feel confident with it. A good all-around paddle with multiple color options, weight options and grip size options. We like options.
Overall, the Engage Encore MX 6.0 is a top-of-the-line paddle made for performance, offering excellent control and spin. However, its limitations in power and a smaller sweet spot might be a consideration for some players.
Encore MX 6.0 Pros
Encore MX 6.0 Cons
#11: Volair MACH 1 Forza
The Volair may not be as well known as some of the others on this list, but that doesn’t make it not as good. The Mach 1 Forza comes in two thicknesses, 14mm and 16mm. Volair is co-founded by top pro Julain Arnold and made to have good controllable power. The 14mm will give you a little extra power while the 16mm will add a little more control to your game.
This is a theromoformed paddle with foam walls injected at the sides which helps to keep noise levels down a bit! Above that, you get a larger sweet spot as well so you can say goodbye to mishits. Very nice paddle worth the look.
Overall, the Volair MACH 1 Forza is a solid all-court paddle, particularly suited for intermediate players who appreciate a mix of power, spin, and control. However, its stiffer feel and smaller sweet spot might pose a challenge for players used to more forgiving pickleball paddles.
MACH 1 Pros
MACH 1 Cons
#12: Vatic Pro V7
A very enjoyable pickleball paddle on the court made with T700 raw carbon fiber. It is a well-made paddle with good durability. The walls of the paddle are foam injected which increases the sweet spot and aids in good control.
Slightly heavier in the 8.1 to 8.5 ounce range, this unibody-constructed paddle with a 16mm core offers great control. It has an elonged handle for extra reach as well. A solid paddle and a decent price.
Vatic Pro V7 Pros
Vatic Pro V7 Cons
#13: Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro V3
Paddletek has an amazing brand in the pickleball space. They are one of the pioneers in the pickleball paddle space. The Tempest Wave paddle has been a staple and now the Tempest Wave Pro v3 takes it to the next level. This paddle will certainly carry you from intermediate to advanced with no issues. A lot of top players use this paddle.
Amazing control, touch and forgiveness is what this pickleball paddle is all about.
What makes the v3 different from the Tempest Wave Pro is the exclusive ICED Carbon Fiber. This gives amazing spin capabilities with great durability. The sweet spot is big on the Tempest Wave Pro and you can feel it with its balanced weight while making your shots. Combine that with great maneuverability at the net and you have a winning paddle!
Tempest Wave Pro V3 Pros
Tempest Wave Pro V3 Cons
#14: Diadem Warrior Edge 16mm
One of the more popular paddles out there the Warrior Edge will not let you down. It can do it all. it has a nice 16mm core for good control and maneuverability at the net. This is a nice midweight paddle weighing in at an average of 7.8 ounces to 8.2 ounces.
The grip circumference is a tad small, but grip tape can easily fix that if you prefer. A Mid-size handle at 5 inches with a common face width of 7.5 inches makes it a very comfortable and universal paddle. Won’t take any time to get used to this great overall, consistent paddle.
Warrior Edge Pros
Warrior Edge Cons
#15: Franklin FS Tour Dynasty
The new release from the legendary name in the game Franklin is the FS Tour Dynasty. We chose the 14mm version of this paddle for a little extra power. Great pop coming out of this paddle with plenty of spin to boot. Perfect for the intermediate player looking to up their game.
A thermoformed pickleball paddle with a polypropylene core creates an extremely well-made paddle. A longer 5.6-inch handle helps with reach and power and the carbon fiber face provides the control you are looking for. A great all-around pickeball paddle that weighs an average of 8.1 to 8.4 ounces. Add a few different color options and you have yourself a great paddle that is ready to go.
FS Tour Dynasty Pros
FS Tour Dynasty Cons
#16: Oneshot Katana Shot
We love the Oneshot Paddles. Tried multiple and they are all great. For intermediate and advanced players we chose the Katana Shot. Nice balanced paddle. Felt solid, powerful enough, great spin and control.
Midweight paddle coming in at 7.9 ounces to 8.3. the 5.5 inch handle was perfect with room for two hands if needed. The polypropylene honeycomb core adds control and pop to your shots.
Overall a very balanced, even pickleball paddle that has awesome spin, power and control…and let’s not forget about the great looks!
Katana Shot Pros
Katana Shot Cons
#17: Head Extreme Pro Composite
If you’re looking to increase your spin game then this is one to consider. This is a great pickleball paddle for beginner and intermediate players. The composite surface gets you the spin you desire with relative ease. A touch on the lighter side at 7.8 ounces, but this paddle still has some power to it. Easy to control at the net as well. A good intermediate paddle at a nice price with the well-known Head name behind it.
Head Pros
Head Cons
How to Choose the Best Intermediate Pickleball Paddle
Before you pull the trigger on a new paddle, it helps to know what really matters. The right combination of material, weight, grip size, and price can completely change how you play. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to look for:
Material
Paddle materials play a huge role in feel and performance:
- Wood – Cheapest option, but heavy and not as durable.
- Composite – A solid middle ground, offering a mix of power and control at a reasonable price.
- Graphite/Fiberglass – Lightweight, responsive, and powerful. Usually the priciest, but a favorite for players looking to level up.
Pick the material that matches both your style and budget.
Weight
Weight impacts everything from swing speed to shot power:
- Heavier paddles = more power, but less maneuverability.
- Lighter paddles = quicker reactions and better control, but less pop.
Most intermediate players find a happy medium somewhere in the middle of the weight range.
Grip Size
Comfort is key here:
- Larger grips = more stability and control, but can feel clunky if your hands are smaller.
- Smaller grips = more wrist action (and power), but harder to manage with bigger hands.
Test different sizes if you can—your paddle should feel natural in your hand.
Price
Paddles range from budget-friendly to $250+ high-end models. While you don’t need to buy the most expensive paddle on the wall, it’s usually worth spending a little more for better quality and longevity. Think of it as an investment in your game.
Conclusion
The right paddle can make all the difference in your game. With so many solid intermediate options out there, it comes down to knowing what matters most to you—material, weight, grip size, edge guard (or edgeless), and price.
Hopefully, this guide gave you the insight you need to pick a paddle that fits your style and your budget. Now it’s your turn—grab the one that feels right and start leveling up your game.
See you on the courts.
P.S. If you think you need to stay in the beginner paddles category be sure to check our review of the 17 best pickleball paddles for beginners.
