Best Pickleball Paddles for Price: Top 5 Budget-Friendly Options in 2024

Pickleball has taken the sports world by storm, becoming one of the fastest-growing activities in recent years. As more people discover this fun and social game, the demand for quality equipment has risen. Pickleball paddles are essential gear for players of all skill levels, and finding the right one at a good price can make a big difference in your game.

When choosing a pickleball paddle, make sure to consider factors like weight, grip size, and material. The right paddle can improve your control, power, and overall playing experience. Price is also a key factor for many players, especially those just starting out or looking for a backup paddle.

You’ll want to pay attention to the paddle’s core material and face texture when making your choice. These elements affect the paddle’s performance and durability. We tested dozens of pickleball paddles across various price points to find the best options that offer great value without breaking the bank.

Best Pickleball Paddles for Price

You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy pickleball. We’ve put together a list of top-notch paddles that give you great performance without emptying your wallet. These options offer a good mix of quality and value for players of all skill levels.

Uteeqe Graphite Pickleball Set

You’ll get great value and performance from this paddle set, making it a smart choice for beginners and intermediate players alike.

Pros

• Lightweight and well-balanced
• Textured surface for good spin
• Comfortable grip

Cons

• May lack power for advanced players
• Limited color options
• Included balls are basic quality

The Uteeqe paddles feel great in your hands. They weigh about 7.8 ounces, which is light enough for quick reactions at the net. The textured graphite surface also gives you nice spin on your shots. You’ll notice the large sweet spot helps you hit more consistent shots.

These paddles have a comfy grip that won’t slip, even when your hands get sweaty. The cushioned, spiral design helps you hold on tight during intense rallies. The edge guard is low-profile, so it won’t get in your way but still protects the paddle if you drop it.

You get two paddles, four balls, and a carry bag in this set. It’s a good deal for the price. The paddles work well for beginners but can also suit more skilled players. While the included balls are basic, the paddles themselves offer solid performance that will help you enjoy the game and improve your skills.

SLK Neo 2.0 Pickleball Set

You’ll get great value from this affordable yet high-quality pickleball set for beginners and casual players.

Pros

• Lightweight and well-balanced
• Comfortable grip
• Includes carrying case and balls

Cons

• Not ideal for advanced players
• Included balls wear out quickly
• Limited color options

The SLK Neo 2.0 paddles offer a nice mix of performance and affordability. When you pick up these paddles, you’ll notice how light they feel at just 7.5 ounces. This makes them easy to maneuver during long games without tiring out your arm.

The graphite face gives you good control over your shots, allowing you to place the ball where you want it more often than not. The polymer core also helps absorb impact, so you don’t feel as much vibration in your hand when you hit the ball.

These paddles have a comfortable grip that feels nice in your hand. It absorbs sweat well, so you don’t have to worry about the paddle slipping during intense rallies. The included carrying case is a nice bonus for taking your gear to and from the courts.

VINSGUIR Fiberglass Pickleball Set

You’ll get great value with this affordable USAPA-approved paddle set that’s ideal for beginners and casual players.

Pros

• Lightweight and maneuverable
• Large sweet spot
• Comfortable grip

Cons

• May lack power for advanced players
• Fiberglass face less durable than graphite
• Limited color options

The VINSGUIR paddle set offers a lot for its price. You’ll notice the lightweight feel right away, making it easy to swing and react quickly. The wide face also gives you a big target to hit the ball, which is great when you’re learning.

These paddles have a nice grip that fits well in your hand. You won’t have to worry about the paddle slipping during play. The polymer core also helps reduce vibrations, so your arm won’t get tired as quickly.

For casual games with friends and family, these paddles work well. You get two paddles, balls, and a carrying case – everything you need to start playing right away. While they might not have the power for competitive play, they’re perfect for learning the game and having fun on the court.

GARYE Carbon Fiber Paddles

You’ll get great value from these USAPA-approved paddles that offer solid performance without breaking the bank.

Pros

• Lightweight carbon fiber construction
• Comfortable grip for extended play
• Includes balls and carrying bag

Cons

• Balls may not be top quality
• Bag could be larger
• Edge guard may show wear quickly

These GARYE pickleball paddles give you a lot for your money. The carbon fiber face and polypropylene core make them light and easy to swing. At just 8.1 ounces, you won’t tire out during long games.

The paddles feel nice in your hands. The grip measures 4.57 inches around and has a cushioned, ridged surface. This helps you hold on tight even when you sweat. The large sweet spot also lets you hit consistently.

You get everything you need to start playing right away. The set comes with two paddles, six balls, and a carrying bag. The bag holds the paddles and balls plus has room for small items like your keys and phone. While the balls aren’t pro-level, they work fine for casual games.

JOOLA Perseus Paddle

You’ll get top-tier performance with this pro-level paddle, but it comes at a premium price.

Pros

• Large sweet spot for accuracy
• Charged carbon surface for power
• Durable carbon fiber construction

Cons

• Expensive for casual players
• May be too powerful for beginners
• Limited color options

The JOOLA Perseus paddle packs a punch on the court. Its charged carbon surface gives your shots extra pop, letting you smash the ball with authority. You’ll notice the difference right away when you step up to serve.

Control is a strong point too. The paddle’s shape creates a big sweet spot, so you can hit with precision even when you’re not perfectly centered. This comes in handy during fast exchanges at the kitchen line.

Durability isn’t an issue with the Perseus. The carbon fiber build can take a beating, so you won’t need to replace it anytime soon. The grip also feels nice in your hand and wicks away sweat, keeping you comfortable during long games.

While it’s a top pick for skilled players, beginners might find the Perseus tough to handle. The power can be hard to control if you’re still working on basics. It’s also not cheap, so think hard before buying if you’re new to pickleball or on a tight budget.

JOOLA Vision CGS Paddle

You’ll get great value from this high-quality paddle that balances power and control for players of all skill levels.

Pros

• Large sweet spot for forgiving hits
• Carbon grip surface enhances spin
• Comfortable anti-slip handle

Cons

• Rough surface collects dirt
• Pricey for beginners
• May lack power for some players

When you pick up the JOOLA Vision CGS paddle, you’ll notice its comfortable grip right away. The perforated handle feels secure in your hand, even during long games. This paddle’s larger hitting area also gives you more room for error, which is great when you’re learning or playing fast-paced matches.

The carbon grip surface really stands out when you start playing. You’ll find it easier to add spin to your shots, giving you an edge in both offense and defense. The polymer core also helps dampen vibrations, so your arms won’t tire as quickly during extended play.

You might find the paddle surface collects dirt over time due to its texture. While this doesn’t affect performance, it can be a bit annoying to clean. The price tag may seem high if you’re just starting out, but the quality and features make it a solid investment as you improve your game.

Niupipo Pickleball Set

You’ll get great value with this pickleball set, ideal for beginners and casual players looking for quality paddles at an affordable price.

Pros

• Lightweight and comfortable grip
• Includes balls and carrying case
• Good power and control for beginners

Cons

• May not suit advanced players
• Grip size might be small for large hands
• Limited color options

The Niupipo pickleball paddles offer a nice balance of power and control. When you pick up these paddles, you’ll notice how light they feel in your hands. At just 7.6 ounces, they’re easy to maneuver during quick exchanges at the net.

You’ll appreciate the paddles’ fiberglass face and polypropylene honeycomb core. This combo gives you a satisfying pop when you hit the ball. The larger sweet spot also makes it easier to land your shots, which is great if you’re new to the game.

The grip feels comfy and helps you keep control of the paddle. It’s wrapped with a non-slip fabric that wicks away sweat. You’ll like how it feels even during long playing sessions. The set also comes with indoor and outdoor balls, plus a carry bag. This makes it easy to take your gear to the courts.

VUFOXT Carbon Fiber Pickleball Set

This USAPA-approved pickleball set offers great value for beginners and intermediate players looking to improve their game.

Pros

• USAPA approved for tournament play
• Carbon fiber surface for enhanced spin
• Includes 4 balls and a carry bag

Cons

• Grip may be short for large hands
• Might not suit advanced players
• Limited color options

The VUFOXT pickleball set gives you a lot for your money. You get two paddles, four balls, and a carry bag. This makes it easy to start playing right away or share with a friend.

The paddles have a carbon fiber surface. This helps you put more spin on the ball. It’s great for learning new shots and tricks. The paddles also have a honeycomb core. This gives you a good mix of power and control.

These paddles are lightweight at 11.2 ounces. You can swing them fast without getting tired. The grip is comfy and soaks up sweat. But if you have big hands, you might find it a bit short. The edge guards make the paddles last longer. They can take hits without breaking.

GoSports GS1 Paddle

You’ll get great value from this USAPA-approved paddle that offers a nice balance of features for beginners and intermediate players.

Pros

• Lightweight and maneuverable
• Textured surface for spin control
• Affordable price point

Cons

• No wrist strap included
• May lack power for advanced players
• Limited color options

The GoSports GS1 paddle weighs just 7 ounces, making it easy to swing and control. You’ll appreciate the lightweight feel during long games. The fiberglass face has a slightly rough texture that grips the ball, letting you add spin to your shots.

At 15.75 inches long, this paddle gives you good reach without feeling unwieldy. The 4.25-inch grip fits comfortably in your hand. It’s wrapped with a premium material that helps prevent slipping, even when your palms get sweaty.

The honeycomb core provides a nice balance of power and touch. You can hit firm drives but also execute soft dinks near the net. While it may not have the raw power of pricier paddles, the GS1 offers plenty of performance for most recreational players. Its USAPA approval means you can use it in tournaments too.

JOOLA Journey Paddle

You’ll find great value in this lightweight paddle that offers a mix of power and control for beginner to intermediate players.

Pros

• Lightweight design reduces arm fatigue
• Fiberglass surface provides extra pop
• Comfortable grip for extended play

Cons

• May lack power for advanced players
• Smaller grip size not ideal for large hands
• Less durable than premium paddles

The JOOLA Journey paddle is a solid choice if you’re looking for an affordable option that doesn’t skimp on quality. Its fiberglass graphite surface gives you a nice boost in power, helping you hit those deep shots with less effort. You’ll notice the difference when you’re playing long games, as the lightweight design keeps your arm fresh.

Grip comfort is key in pickleball, and JOOLA doesn’t disappoint. The Feel-Tec Pure Grip technology feels tacky and secure in your hand, even during intense rallies. It also helps absorb shock, which is great news for your wrists and elbows. You can play longer without discomfort, making those marathon sessions more enjoyable.

The Journey’s polymer core is another standout feature. It reduces vibration and gives you better control over your shots. You’ll find it easier to place the ball where you want it, whether you’re going for a soft dink or a powerful smash. While it might not have the raw power of some high-end paddles, it offers a nice balance that’s perfect for improving your all-around game.

Buying Guide

When shopping for pickleball paddles, keep a few key factors in mind to find the best value for your budget.

Weight

Choose a paddle weight that feels comfortable for you. Lighter paddles (7-8 oz) offer more control, while heavier ones (8-9 oz) provide more power.

Core Material

The core affects the paddle’s feel and performance:

• Polymer: Quiet, good control
• Nomex: Firm, powerful hits
• Aluminum: Lightweight, less expensive

Face Material

The paddle face impacts spin and durability:

• Graphite: Lightweight, great for spin
• Composite: Durable, good all-around option
• Carbon fiber: Strong and lightweight

Grip Size

Pick a grip that fits your hand comfortably. Most range from 4″ to 4 1/2″.

Shape

Paddle shapes can affect your play style:

• Wide body: Larger sweet spot, good for beginners
• Elongated: More reach, suited for advanced players

Price Range

Before shopping, set a budget. Quality paddles are available at various price points.

• Entry-level: $30-$60
• Mid-range: $60-$120
• High-end: $120+

When deciding how much to spend, consider your skill level and how often you play. Also, remember that a more expensive paddle doesn’t always mean better performance for your needs.