Best Pickleball Paddle for Ping Pong Players: Top Choices for Table Tennis Veterans
Pickleball has become a popular sport, blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. If you’re a ping pong player looking to switch to pickleball, finding the right paddle is key. The right paddle can help you transfer your table tennis skills to the pickleball court smoothly.
Pickleball paddles come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. They’re typically larger than ping pong paddles but smaller than tennis rackets. The paddle’s weight, grip size, and core material can affect your game. As a ping pong player, you might prefer a paddle that feels familiar in your hand.
When choosing a pickleball paddle, pay attention to the weight and grip size. A lighter paddle offers more control, while a heavier one gives more power. The grip size should feel comfortable, like your ping pong paddle. We tested several pickleball paddles to find the best options for ping pong players making the switch.
Best Pickleball Paddles for Ping Pong Players
If you’re a ping pong player looking to try pickleball, choosing the right paddle is key. The paddles listed below blend familiar table tennis qualities with pickleball-specific features. You’ll find options that can help ease your transition to this fast-growing sport.
JOOLA Perseus Paddle
This high-performance paddle is a game-changer for serious pickleball players looking to boost their power and control.
Pros
- Large sweet spot for improved accuracy
- Carbon fiber construction for durability
- Charged surface technology enhances power
Cons
- Higher price point
- May be too advanced for beginners
- Heavier than some other paddles
When you pick up the JOOLA Perseus paddle, you’ll feel the quality right away. The carbon fiber construction gives it a solid, premium feel in your hand. At 8 ounces, it’s got some heft to it, but that extra weight translates into more power on your shots.
The standout feature is the charged carbon surface technology. This gives the paddle a crisp, poppy response when you hit the ball. You’ll notice more energy return, which helps you generate more pace on your shots without swinging harder.
The shape of the paddle is designed to create a larger sweet spot. This means you’ll have more forgiveness on off-center hits, helping you maintain accuracy even when you don’t make perfect contact. The Feel-Tec Pure Grip is comfortable and tacky, giving you a secure hold even during intense rallies.
You’ll appreciate the paddle’s versatility. It performs well in all areas of the court, from powerful drives to soft dinks at the net. The carbon fiber construction also means this paddle will stand up to aggressive play over time.
Selkirk SLK Neo 2.0 Pickleball Set
You’ll appreciate this paddle set for its blend of quality and value, making it a solid choice for ping pong players transitioning to pickleball.
Pros
- Lightweight and well-balanced
- Comfortable grip reduces fatigue
- USAPA approved for tournament play
Cons
- May lack power for advanced players
- Limited color options
- Included balls are not very durable
The Selkirk SLK Neo 2.0 paddles feel great in your hands. At 7.5 ounces, they’re light enough for quick reactions but still have enough heft for solid shots. The grip is a standout feature – it’s soft and absorbs sweat well, so you can play for hours without discomfort.
These paddles give you good control over your shots. The graphite face and polymer core work together to create a nice, responsive feel when you hit the ball. You’ll find it easy to place your shots accurately, which is key when you’re switching from ping pong to pickleball.
For beginners and intermediate players, these paddles offer a nice balance of performance and affordability. They’re USAPA approved, so you can use them in tournaments as you improve. The included carrying case is a nice touch, keeping your gear protected between games. While the balls that come with the set aren’t the best, the paddles themselves are a great value for new pickleball enthusiasts.
JOOLA Perseus Pro Pickleball Paddle
You’ll appreciate this paddle’s power and spin if you’re a skilled player looking to up your game.
Pros
- Impressive power and spin
- Carbon fiber surface for crisp feel
- Innovative core technology
Cons
- May be too advanced for beginners
- Smooth surface requires adjustment
- Higher price point
The JOOLA Perseus Pro Pickleball Paddle brings table tennis expertise to the pickleball court. As you grip this paddle, you’ll notice its sleek carbon fiber surface. It feels different from other paddles – smoother, yet responsive.
When you start playing, the paddle’s power becomes clear. Your drives have more zip, and your spin shots dance with extra curl. The Gen 3 Propulsion Core is the secret sauce here. It gives you that extra oomph on hard shots while still letting you finesse softer ones.
You might need some time to get used to this paddle. Its smooth surface is a change if you’re coming from textured paddles. But once you adjust, you’ll love the crisp feel and added control. It’s like the paddle becomes an extension of your arm, letting you place shots with pinpoint accuracy.
JOOLA Radius Pro Paddle
You’ll love this paddle if you’re a ping pong player looking for top-notch control and spin in pickleball.
Pros
- Large sweet spot for better hits
- Textured surface for extra spin
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue
Cons
- May lack power for some players
- Short handle might not suit everyone
- Higher price point than basic paddles
The JOOLA Radius Pro Paddle feels like a natural fit if you’re coming from table tennis. Its rounded shape gives you a bigger hitting area, making it easier to connect with the ball. You’ll notice the difference right away when you’re at the kitchen line.
This paddle really shines in the dinking game. The textured carbon grip surface lets you put loads of spin on the ball. You can really feel the ball grab the paddle face. It’s great for those tricky short shots and drop volleys.
At just 7.6 ounces, the Radius Pro is a breeze to swing. You won’t get tired even after long games. The honeycomb core absorbs vibrations well, so your arm won’t feel sore. Keep in mind that while it’s great for control, you might find it lacks a bit of power for smashes.
ONIX Z5 Graphite Paddle
The ONIX Z5 Graphite Paddle is a top choice for ping pong players transitioning to pickleball due to its tennis-like handle and excellent control.
Pros
- Great control and touch
- Comfortable tennis-style grip
- Suitable for all skill levels
Cons
- May lack power for some players
- Slightly heavier than some alternatives
- Edge guard may affect play for some users
When you pick up the ONIX Z5, you’ll notice its familiar feel right away. The tennis-style handle makes it a natural fit if you’re coming from table tennis. It’s got a nice weight to it, not too heavy but solid enough to give you confidence in your shots.
The graphite face gives you amazing control over the ball. You can really feel the difference when you’re playing soft shots or trying to place the ball precisely. The large sweet spot is forgiving, which is great when you’re still getting used to pickleball’s different pace and bounce.
You might find the Z5 lacks a bit of power compared to some other paddles. But for most players, especially those new to pickleball, the trade-off for better control is worth it. The edge guard is there to protect the paddle, but it takes some getting used to if you’re not familiar with it. All in all, this paddle is a solid choice that will help you transition smoothly from ping pong to pickleball.
CZRR Carbon Fiber Paddle
This paddle offers great performance and spin for ping pong players transitioning to pickleball.
Pros
- Carbon fiber surface for excellent spin
- Comfortable grip for extended play
- USAPA approved for tournament use
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some paddles
- May take time to adjust for beginners
- Limited color options
The CZRR Carbon Fiber Paddle stands out with its 3K raw carbon fiber surface. You’ll notice the extra grip it provides on the ball, allowing you to put more spin on your shots. This can be a game-changer when you’re used to the spin control of a ping pong paddle.
At 8.0-8.5 ounces, it’s a bit heavier than some other options. But don’t let that worry you. The weight gives you more power behind your hits. You might find it takes a few games to get used to, but once you do, you’ll appreciate the extra oomph in your shots.
The grip is a standout feature. It’s designed with soft artificial leather and has sweat-wicking holes. You won’t have to worry about the paddle slipping during intense rallies. The 5.5-inch grip length also allows for two-handed play if that’s your style.
USAPA approval means you can use this paddle in official tournaments. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking to step up your game and start competing. The 16mm polypropylene honeycomb core helps reduce vibration, giving you better control over your shots.
JOOLA Vision CGS Paddle
You should buy this paddle if you want to take your pickleball game to the next level with enhanced control and spin.
Pros
- Carbon grip surface for increased spin
- Comfortable anti-slip handle
- Large sweet spot for forgiving hits
Cons
- Rough surface collects dirt
- Pricey for beginners
- May take time to adjust to
The JOOLA Vision CGS paddle is a game-changer for ping pong players transitioning to pickleball. When you first pick it up, you’ll notice its lightweight feel and comfortable grip.
The perforated handle keeps your hand dry during intense matches.
On the court, this paddle shines. The carbon grip surface bites the ball, giving you amazing spin on serves and dinks. You’ll find yourself placing shots with pinpoint accuracy.
The large sweet spot is forgiving, helping you hit solid shots even when you’re not perfectly centered.
While the paddle performs great, it does have a few drawbacks. The textured surface tends to collect dirt, so you’ll need to clean it often. It’s also on the pricier side, which might not suit casual players.
If you’re used to a different paddle, there may be an adjustment period as you get used to the JOOLA’s unique feel and power.
JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Paddle
You’ll find this paddle offers top performance for aggressive players looking to boost their power and spin.
Pros
- Carbon friction surface enhances spin
- Hyperfoam edge wall expands sweet spot
- Reactive core improves consistency
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavier weight may slow hand speed
- Learning curve for new players
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion paddle packs a punch with its carbon friction surface. You’ll notice the difference in spin right away. The textured face grips the ball, letting you put more action on your shots.
Hitting with this paddle feels solid thanks to the Hyperfoam edge wall. It adds stability and expands the sweet spot. You can connect well even on off-center hits.
The polypropylene core also helps by giving a consistent feel across the paddle face.
You might need time to adjust to the paddle’s weight. It’s a bit on the heavy side, which could slow down quick exchanges at the net. But once you get used to it, you’ll appreciate the extra power on serves and groundstrokes.
The carbon-forged handle flexes just enough to add some pop to your shots without losing control.
JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS
You’ll love this paddle if you’re a ping pong player transitioning to pickleball, thanks to its spin-friendly surface and excellent control.
Pros
- Carbon Abrasion Surface for enhanced spin
- Hybrid-Ply technology for great control
- Comfortable grip with moisture-reducing technology
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some paddles
- May take time to adjust to the extra spin
- Higher price point
When you pick up the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS, you’ll notice its quality right away. The paddle feels solid in your hand, with a weight that gives your shots more power.
The textured surface catches the ball nicely, letting you put extra spin on your serves and returns.
As you start playing, you’ll appreciate the paddle’s control. The hybrid-ply design helps you place shots exactly where you want them. Dinking at the net feels precise, and you can drive the ball with confidence from the baseline.
The extra length of the handle also helps you reach those tricky shots.
After a few games, you might feel your hand getting sweaty. But don’t worry – the grip stays secure thanks to its moisture-reducing design. You’ll keep a firm hold even during long, intense matches.
While it may take a bit of time to get used to the paddle’s spin potential, you’ll soon find yourself hitting shots you never thought possible.
JOOLA Ben Johns Pickleball Set
This set is a great choice for ping pong players looking to start their pickleball journey.
Pros
- High-quality fiberglass paddles
- Includes indoor and outdoor balls
- Convenient carrying case
Cons
- May not suit advanced players
- Limited color options
- Grip might be too small for some
You’ll love the feel of these JOOLA paddles in your hands. The fiberglass face gives you a nice mix of power and control, perfect for transitioning from ping pong.
The large sweet spot helps you nail those shots even when you don’t hit the ball dead center.
The set comes with four balls – two for indoor play and two for outdoor. This is super handy as you can practice in different settings without buying extra equipment.
The indoor balls are lighter and great for working on your spin technique.
The included carrying case is a nice touch. It fits both paddles and all the balls, making it easy to take your gear to the courts.
The shoulder strap is comfortable, and there’s even a small pocket for your keys and phone.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right pickleball paddle as a ping pong player can be tricky. Here are some key factors to consider:
Weight
Look for paddles between 7-8.5 ounces. This range offers a good balance of power and control for ping pong players transitioning to pickleball.
Grip Size
Your grip size should feel comfortable and natural. Measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger to find your ideal size.
Paddle Shape
Wider paddles give you more hitting surface but less maneuverability. Elongated paddles offer better reach and spin potential.
Core Material
Polymer cores provide good power and control. Nomex or aluminum cores offer more pop but less control.
Face Material
Graphite faces give excellent control and touch. Fiberglass faces provide more power but less precision.
Sweet Spot
A larger sweet spot helps with off-center hits. This can be especially helpful when adjusting to the different ball and court size in pickleball.
Edge Guard
An edge guard protects your paddle from damage. However, it can reduce the hitting surface.
Consider if durability or maximizing play area is more important to you.
Remember to test different paddles if possible. Your personal preferences and playing style will ultimately guide your choice.
