Pickleball is a great sport in which you need a paddle to serve and return. But some paddles are better than others, and the price range can be pretty wide. So what is the best budget pickleball paddle?
The best budget Pickleball paddles that work well despite their low price are the Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle, GAMMA Fusion Pro, Amazin’ Aces Graphite Pickleball Paddle, and Niupipo Pickleball Paddle.
These paddles are our top picks and are of great quality. And don’t worry, I have a full review of each below.
So, this post is for you if you are on a budget and want a new paddle with a good worth of your money. We will look at less expensive paddles- under 50 dollars- that are of very good quality.
I ultimately want you to get the most out of your money when it comes to choosing a paddle. However, the life span of a paddle and the best material for a paddle are also factors to consider when choosing a pickleball paddle.
Hence, I’ve composed this sort of handbook to give you everything you need to know about choosing your first paddle and buying the best pickleball paddle out there.
What is the difference between a cheap and expensive pickleball paddle?
Pickleball players need to use the highest quality and most adaptable paddles possible, but the price is not always necessarily a good indicator of quality.
Typically, wooden paddles have the most affordable price, while graphite paddles are not very affordable paddles.
Performance as a whole is impacted in terms of both effect and experience.
A paddle’s quality won’t always be determined by its price, so avoid being seduced by brand names and visually appealing artworks alone. Instead, pay more attention to the materials they are made with, your budget, the weight, and grip.
Avoid buying a wooden pickleball paddle if you can afford to, as they are uncomfortable and provide less advantage than the graphite and composite varieties.
Price will probably play a significant role in your decision to choose one paddle over the other.
But you will probably be shocked to learn that the cost of these paddles can vary widely from as little as $20 to $200 for the more upscale ones.
Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle is an example of a high-end paddle.
To make this easier to digest, here are a few points that differentiate cheap paddles from expensive ones:
The assurance of the quality of manufacturing
Like all good and quality things that take time to be produced, pickleball paddles aren’t an exception. Paddles that cost more money were made using better manufacturing techniques and the finest materials on the planet and are likely the best paddles.
Most sellers/producers that sell very cheap paddles aren’t focused on high-performance products.
Their goal is to swiftly produce as many paddles as possible and as cheaply as possible.
This, most times, involves using an automated process for producing en masse with minimal quality control as not so many goods produced can be inspected before shipping them out.
The raw materials used
Performance, durability, and feel are all directly impacted by the price range. Cheap, inferior materials are less durable, weak, and more likely to crumble under repetitive impact compared to better products.
This is not advisable if you are looking to make a long-term investment.
I got in some Pickleball today!! pic.twitter.com/XXNCnqXiX9
— Ed Flores (@eflores1971) August 28, 2022
Do expensive pickleball paddles matter?
If you are very gifted, or you’re just playing for fun, or you’re a new player, an inexpensive paddle or an entry-level paddle will do just fine.
But if you want a great experience or are an intermediate player, a better paddle designed to suit your playing preferences will make the game more enjoyable for you.
Paddles that cost more are produced using superior raw materials, higher-quality manufacturing techniques, and cutting-edge technology. Experienced players tend to go for high-end Pickleball paddles more than new players.
Price does matter.
However, this does not directly affect how good the paddle is. I mean, there are cheap paddles out that are great options. But I will recommend a cheaper paddle for your first paddle or if you only intend to play recreationally.
Some paddles are very expansive with amazing and enticing graphics, but that is their only selling point as they have no edge over the normally priced paddle, don’t get me wrong, some expensive paddles have better features than their cheaper counterparts.
Most of them are pricy because of the time put into their production, and some have hand-stitched features with edge-cutting technologies.
Expensive paddles often come in a great amount of variety as they are not produced en masse like the cheap ones, which have just a few variations of color and other features.
This is pickleball — pic.twitter.com/lj9Z0TFiQI
— Chris Black (@donetodeath) August 21, 2022
How do you pick the right paddle?
To find the pickleball paddle that will be most suited to you and your style of play, consider the core material, thickness, facing, form, weight, and handle length. You can get through all that marketing speak and locate the ideal paddle for you.
Picking a pickleball paddle that works for you is crucial because it can significantly improve your performance on the court.
Your play is heavily impacted by the paddle’s weight.
If you are going for a paddle that’ll give you powerful shots, I’d advise you to use heavier pickleball paddles, some advanced players prefer this, and a lighter paddle is ideal for “touch players” that place more priority on ball control than power or those that feel uncomfortable carrying heavier paddles.
An important factor that should be considered while selecting a pickleball paddle is the grip size.
Some prefer a smaller grip size, while others prefer a larger grip. Finding the paddle that works well for you and what you value in a game may take a while for you to find out as a novice.
You could develop tennis elbow amidst other ailments from using the incorrect paddle.
Wood, graphite, and composite materials are used to make pickleball paddles’ surfaces. Most competitive players use more paddles made of graphite. They are incredibly sturdy and light.
There are three core materials for pickleball paddles.
They are the following:
- Nomex core
- Aluminum core
- Polymer core
The Nomex core is the first lightweight core, and it is known for being the loudest and the hardest of the three. It gives a great pop.
Aluminum cores are known for better maneuverability and ball placement. It is slightly softer and quieter than the Nomex core.
The polymer core is the softest and quietest there is. Because of its softness, you will experience a great amount of ball control. It is mostly found in mid-weight paddles. An example is the Rally Tyro.
A middle-weight paddle with a great sweet spot.
The heaviest and the least advanced paddles are made of wood. Instead of a wooden paddle, you should purchase composite paddles or graphite paddles if you intend to play pickleball frequently.
In fact, not just in pickleball, even tennis players used to use wooden rackets, but now with the advancement of technology, their racket materials have changed.
Paddles for pickleball are available in a wide range of sizes and forms.
However, neither the length nor the width may be longer than 24 inches. The dimensions of a typical paddle are 16 inches long by 8 inches wide.
The longer paddles have less control but more reach, power, and spin! Oversized paddles aren’t made for competition; they are for recreation.
The ultimate way to make a great choice or get the right size would be to take the time to experiment with a few different possibilities to determine which one is the best option.
But above all, have fun while playing!
Learned how to play Pickleball this summer. So much fun. Courts are popping up everywhere now. Has it reached your town? pic.twitter.com/qudsr4ZLPV
— AShmoo (@AShmoo) August 29, 2022
Is carbon fiber or graphite better for pickleball? (and which is cheaper?)
The most expensive, most resilient, next-level, and lightest material for paddle surfaces is carbon fiber.
The carbon fiber weave, which is fabric before being attached to a core (could be a honeycomb core or aluminum), is robust, long-lasting, high-tech, and has a very distinctive appearance.
Compared to other surfaces, it offers the best ball control and better maneuverability but can occasionally lose some force as it does not weigh much.
Carbon fiber is very light and has the lowest stress on the elbow/shoulder. ONIX Graphite Z5 Graphite carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is an example of a carbon fiber paddle with a Graphite carbon fiber face.
The thickness of a fingernail is about how thick graphite paddle surfaces are.
They are light and flexible but firm and have great power. The fast motion off the surface of the graphite surface greatly appeals to the players.
Graphite is slightly less resilient and heavier than carbon fiber.
But many manufacturers choose graphite over carbon fiber as graphite is more cost-effective.
The ball does not sink into graphite because of its stiffness, making it easier to steer the ball, which results in the player’s excellent ball control. It takes less effort to hit the ball harder, and it’s a lot easier to hit the ball deep.
The Amazin’ Ace paddle is a perfect example of a graphite paddle.
Sr games event #2. Pickleball at settlers park with @rogerhigginbot7 #mayor #pickleball pic.twitter.com/jeSNxSGdm8
— Joe Borton (@JoeBorton) August 28, 2022
How long should a pickleball paddle ball last?
Your pickleball paddles’ lifespan will often depend on how frequently you use them.
Therefore, if you use them frequently, during practice or competitions, they are very likely to last less than a paddle you use occasionally or just for recreation.
Your paddle should last at least a year before it breaks down if you are a professional player who plays almost every day.
This is typically the situation with composite and graphite paddles. Your paddles could last up to three years if you are a casual player or a beginner who only plays a few times a week.
However, wooden paddles will endure longer than composite and graphite pickleball paddles. This is because wood paddles are very strong and can be used as frequently as you desire.
Maintenance also contributes to how long your paddles last.
If you take care of your equipment and they are properly maintained, then the durations above can be the case. When not in use, it is strongly advised to store your paddle properly. Place it away from children and animals.
Better yet, if you have access to drawers, closets, or other comparable storage units, you should use that. This will stop the paddle from being attacked by moisture and dust.
You must learn how to use your paddle and other equipment correctly. To get the most out of your paddle and the game, spend some time learning the fundamental grips and swings.
What is the best pickleball paddle for a beginner?
If you’re a beginner and you recently took an interest in pickleball, you’ll definitely need paddles to play.
And as a beginner, you need a paddle that can give you a delightful first experience and first impression. It can make or mar your interest in this game.
As a beginner, you don’t need to be heavily invested in Pickleball paddles or have a paddle of great value just yet, these paddles range anywhere from $30 to $200.
You need the best cheap pickleball paddle that is also a great entry-level paddle.
My recommendation is the Amazin’ Aces Pickleball set from Amazon.
This cheap paddle is a classic graphite pickleball paddle set designed with a polymer honeycomb core and graphite face to increase the strength of the paddle for a perfect blend of greater power and better control.
It is equipped with an ultra-cushioned grip for a comfortable grip. This graphite pickleball paddle’s ergonomic shape offers additional comfort, lowering tension and preventing injuries to your elbows and shoulders.
This premium graphite face pickleball paddle has a very simple and classic design and comes with a great way of packaging for gifting and a mesh bag for convenience when it comes to carrying and storing your pickleball.
POWER
This polymer includes a polypropylene honeycomb core and has a graphite face, so if you care for much power, this is an excellent choice.
FEEL
Although this paddle weighs in on the heavier side at 8.3 oz., it’s efficient and has a great feel. It’s the perfect paddle for you as long as you do not have wrist and shoulder problems.
CONTROL
It possesses great control and spin capabilities thanks to the graphite face and a sturdy core. It has a large sweet spot.
DIMENSIONS
Grip circumference: 4.5″, grip length: 5.0″, paddle face dimensions: 11′ x 7.75″ with the edge guard, length: 16″
DURABILITY
Thanks to its superior quality and maximum performance, it is one of the most durable paddles available on the market.
WARRANTY
Amazin’ Aces have a 1-year warranty on their pickleball set. If you find any issues with the paddles, you can have them repaired or replaced with almost no questions asked.
CONS
They are not USAPA-approved.
Click HERE to check the price on Amazon.
Top pick for budget pickleball paddle
There are about 100 pickleball paddles to choose from that cost less than 50 dollars, but after careful consideration and analysis, my recommendation is the Big Dill Pickleball Co. Infinity Fiberglass Pickleball paddle on Amazon with a price point under $50.
Pros
FIBERGLASS PADDLE FACE
Designed for a lightweight feel with pop. Each side of the paddle features a layer of durable fiberglass. Making it a fiberglass composite.
Grip
This is a wonderful option for tournament, indoor, or outdoor play because of the padded, non-slip cushion handle, which provides a firm grip and comfort. The handle has perforated synthetic leather cushioning for a sweat-absorbing grip and beautiful contrast stitching.
Performance
This paddle face offers strength and matches your playing style. It has a large, wide-body paddle with lots of hitting power, the paddle pops, and it assures long-lasting durability. Service and returns are almost noiseless, and it’s built for agility. The paddle also has a fiberglass face.
Protection
This paddle comes with a neoprene cover to securely protect your paddle after each game of pickleball. It comes with extra padding that gives an assurance of the protection of your paddles. It protects the paddles from dents and scratches. It can be easily taken off and worn with the help of a quality zipper closure.
USA Pickleball Approved
The Infinity has been approved for use in tournaments and competitions as a USAPA-approved pickleball paddle.
Versatility
It can be used indoors, outside, by women, men, seniors, left and right-handed players, mixed, doubles and singles, intermediate players, and beginners. It is all-encompassing.
Dimensions
It weighs 7.7 ounces, has a thickness of 0.5 inches, handles the length of 4.75 inches, and has a grip circumference of 4.5″. The face has a large surface area of a width of 8 inches.
Cons
It is a lightweight paddle and not for those who like heavy paddles.
Click here to check the current price on amazon.
Conclusion
Depending on factors such as build materials, versatility and durability, packaging, and finishing touches, different paddles come at varying prices.
It may range from $30 to $200. But there are a lot of great pickleball paddles for you if you are on a budget, and I strongly advise my recommendation. It is under $50. And it’s a great option when compared to other paddles.
As a beginner, if, after trying to play pickleball for the first time, you develop a strong passion for the game, I’d advise you to invest in paddles of higher quality as they take a longer time to spoil.
It’s all about personal preference in the end, but as I said at the beginning, this is a handbook to the best budget pickleball paddles.
Image by PlusCalidad Importaciones from Pixabay
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