Best Pickleball Paddles Under $30: Top Budget-Friendly Options for 2024
Pickleball has become a favorite sport for many, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. As more people discover this fun and engaging game, the demand for affordable equipment has grown. Pickleball paddles are essential gear for players of all skill levels, and finding a quality paddle at a budget-friendly price can make the sport more accessible to newcomers.
When you choose a pickleball paddle under $30, you’ll want to consider a few key factors. The weight of the paddle affects your control and power on the court. Paddle face material impacts the feel and performance of your shots. Handle length and grip comfort are important for maneuverability and reducing hand fatigue during long play sessions.
We tested numerous affordable pickleball paddles to find the best options for players on a budget. Our goal was to identify paddles that offer good performance and durability without breaking the bank.
Best Pickleball Paddles Under $30
You don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy pickleball. We’ve found great paddles that cost less than $30. These budget-friendly options offer good performance for beginners and casual players.
MTEN Fiberglass Pickleball Set
You’ll get great value from this USAPA-approved pickleball set, perfect for beginners and intermediate players alike.
Pros
- USAPA approved for tournament play
- Comfortable, sweat-absorbing grip
- Includes paddles, balls, and carrying case
Cons
- Medium weight may not suit all players
- Grip size may be too large for some
- Included balls are for outdoor use only
The MTEN pickleball set offers a lot for its price. You get two paddles made with fiberglass faces and polypropylene honeycomb cores. This combo gives you a nice balance of power and control. The paddles feel solid when you hit the ball, and you can get good spin on your shots.
Grip comfort is a big plus with these paddles. The handle has a cushioned, perforated design that soaks up sweat. This helps you keep a firm hold even during long games. At 4.57 inches, the grip is on the larger side. This works well if you have bigger hands, but might be a bit much for players with smaller mitts.
The set comes with four outdoor pickleballs, which is handy for getting started right away. You also get a carry bag to keep everything together. It’s not the fanciest bag, but it does the job. For the price, this set gives you everything you need to start playing or to upgrade from a very basic paddle.
Mayboom Fiberglass Paddles
You’ll get great value from these USAPA-approved paddles, perfect for beginners and casual players alike.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Comfortable, anti-slip grip
- Comes with balls and carrying bag
Cons
- May not suit advanced players
- Included balls are average quality
- Limited color options
These Mayboom pickleball paddles offer a lot for their price. When you pick them up, you’ll notice how light they feel. This makes them easy to swing and helps you play longer without getting tired.
The grip feels nice in your hand. It’s soft but still gives you good control. You won’t have to worry about the paddle slipping, even if your hands get sweaty. The wide paddle face gives you a big sweet spot, so it’s easier to hit the ball well.
You get everything you need to start playing right away. The set comes with two paddles, four balls, and a bag to carry it all. While the balls aren’t top-notch, they work fine for practice. The paddles look good too, with an eye-catching sunset design. For the money, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better set to get you started in pickleball.
VUFOXT Carbon Fiber Pickleball Set
You’ll get great value from this USAPA-approved pickleball set, perfect for beginners and intermediate players looking to improve their game.
Pros
- Durable carbon fiber construction
- Comfortable grip for extended play
- Complete kit with paddles, balls, and bag
Cons
- Grip may be short for large hands
- Might not suit advanced players
- Limited color options
When you pick up these VUFOXT paddles, you’ll notice how light they feel. At 11.2 ounces, they’re easy to swing but still pack a punch. The carbon fiber surface gives you a nice texture for putting spin on the ball.
You’ll love the polypropylene honeycomb core. It helps you get good speed on your shots without losing control. The edge guards with impact bumpers mean these paddles can take a beating and keep going strong.
The grip is comfy and absorbs sweat well. You won’t have to worry about the paddle slipping out of your hand during intense rallies. The set comes with four balls – two for indoor play and two for outdoor – plus a carry bag. It’s got everything you need to start playing right away.
Dobelay Carbon Fiber Paddle
You’ll find great value in this lightweight, durable paddle that suits players of all skill levels.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to control
- Durable 3K carbon fiber construction
- Suitable for beginners and pros alike
Cons
- May lack power for advanced players
- Limited color options
- Grip might be too small for some
When you pick up the Dobelay Carbon Fiber Paddle, you’ll notice how light it feels in your hand. At just 8 ounces, it’s a breeze to swing and maneuver on the court. The 3K carbon fiber face gives you a solid, responsive hit every time you connect with the ball.
The elongated handle is a nice touch, giving you extra reach for those tricky shots. You’ll appreciate the edge guard too – it keeps the paddle looking good even after intense games. The paddle’s design works well for both newcomers and skilled players.
During play, you’ll find the Dobelay offers good control. It might not pack the most power, but it makes up for it with precision. The paddle feels sturdy and well-made, so you can expect it to last through many matches. For the price, it’s hard to beat the quality and performance you get with this paddle.
Mayboom Fiberglass Pickleball Set
You’ll get great value from this USAPA-approved pickleball set, perfect for beginners and casual players.
Pros
- Comfortable grip design
- Lightweight with good sweet spot
- Complete set with balls and bag
Cons
- May not suit advanced players
- Limited color options
- Paddles on the heavier side of lightweight
The Mayboom pickleball set gives you everything you need to start playing right away. You get two paddles, four balls, and a carrying bag. The paddles feel solid in your hands, with a nice grip that won’t slip even when you sweat.
When you swing these paddles, you’ll notice they’re easy to control. They’re light enough for quick movements but have enough heft to put some power behind your shots. The sweet spot is pretty forgiving, which helps a lot when you’re learning.
You might find these paddles a bit heavy if you’re used to ultra-light ones. But for most beginners, they strike a good balance. The set is great for family games or playing with friends. Just keep in mind that as you get better, you might want to upgrade to more advanced paddles.
VOICEPTT Fiberglass Pickleball Set
You’ll get great value from this USAPA-approved pickleball set that’s perfect for players of all skill levels.
Pros
- USAPA approved for tournament play
- Comfortable ergonomic grip
- Comes with paddles, balls, and carrying bag
Cons
- May be too basic for advanced players
- Fiberglass surface could wear down over time
- Limited color options
The VOICEPTT pickleball set gives you everything you need to start playing right away. When you pick up these paddles, you’ll notice how light they feel in your hands. The fiberglass surface and polypropylene core make them easy to swing and maneuver on the court.
You’ll love the grip on these paddles. It’s made with a perforated, sweat-absorbing material that keeps your hands comfortable even during long games. The 4.25-inch grip fits most hand sizes well. As you play, you’ll feel confident making shots thanks to the paddle’s good balance and control.
This set is a great choice if you’re new to pickleball or want to introduce friends to the sport. It comes with four balls – two 40-hole and two 26-hole options. The included carrying bag makes it easy to take your gear to the court. While these paddles work well for beginners and intermediate players, very advanced players might want something more specialized.
Glarollirace Retro Pickleball Set
This affordable USAPA-certified pickleball set is perfect for beginners and casual players.
Pros
- USAPA approved for official play
- Comfortable cushioned grip
- Includes carrying bag and balls
Cons
- May lack durability for heavy use
- Not ideal for advanced players
- Limited color options
The Glarollirace pickleball set gives you everything you need to start playing right away. When you pick up these paddles, you’ll notice how light they feel at only 8-8.5 ounces each. This makes them easy to swing without tiring your arms.
The fiberglass surface has a nice matte finish that helps you put spin on your shots. You’ll appreciate the large sweet spot that makes it easier to hit the ball consistently. The paddles have a 13mm polypropylene core that reduces vibrations when you make contact.
Gripping these paddles feels comfortable thanks to the cushioned, textured handle. Your hands won’t slip even if you get sweaty during play. The set comes with both indoor and outdoor balls, so you can play anywhere. The included carrying bag lets you take everything to the court easily.
For the price, this set offers good performance for casual players. While not pro-level equipment, it works well for learning the game or playing with friends and family. The USAPA approval means you can use these paddles in official games too.
Sprypals Pink Pickleball Set
You’ll love this cute and affordable pickleball set for beginners and casual players.
Pros
- Eye-catching pink design
- USAPA approved for tournaments
- Includes balls and carrying bag
Cons
- Wood construction limits power
- Grip could be more comfortable
- May not suit advanced players
The Sprypals Pink Pickleball Set catches your eye right away. The paddles have fun graffiti designs that make you stand out on the court. You’ll feel proud to show off these cool-looking paddles to your friends.
When you pick up the paddle, you’ll notice it’s pretty light. This makes it easy to swing, even if you’re new to pickleball. The wood surface gives you good control over your shots. You might not get as much power as with fancier paddles, but it’s great for learning the game.
The grip feels okay in your hand. It has holes to help with sweat, which is nice when you’re playing on a hot day. You might want to add an overgrip if you play a lot, though. The set comes with both indoor and outdoor balls, so you can play anywhere. The included bag makes it easy to carry everything to the court.
AOPOUL Pickleball Set
You’ll get great value with this complete pickleball set, perfect for beginners and families.
Pros
- Complete set with paddles, balls, and accessories
- Durable 9-ply wood paddles
- Comfortable grip for extended play
Cons
- Wood paddles may not suit advanced players
- Balls may wear out quickly with frequent use
- Carry bag could be sturdier
The AOPOUL Pickleball Set gives you everything you need to start playing right away. You get four paddles, four balls, four cooling towels, and a carry bag. The paddles are made from 9-ply poplar wood, making them stronger than typical 7-ply paddles.
When you pick up these paddles, you’ll notice they’re lightweight but still allow you to feel the power of your shots. The grip is soft and designed to fit your hand well. You won’t get tired holding these paddles, even during long games. The grip also helps keep your hand from slipping when you sweat.
These paddles have a wide body, which makes it easier to hit the ball. This is great for new players who are still working on their aim. The set comes with paddles in different colors, so each player can have their own. It’s a fun touch that adds to the enjoyment of the game.
VINSGUIR Fiberglass Pickleball Set
You’ll appreciate this affordable and versatile pickleball set for its quality and value.
Pros
- USAPA approved for tournament play
- Lightweight with large sweet spot
- Comfortable grip and durable construction
Cons
- May not suit advanced players long-term
- Limited color options
- Included balls are basic quality
The VINSGUIR pickleball set offers great bang for your buck. When you pick up these paddles, you’ll notice how light they feel at just 7.8 ounces. This makes them easy to maneuver, perfect for beginners or casual players.
You’ll love the wide playing surface, measuring 10.63″ by 8.1″. It gives you a big sweet spot, so you don’t need to worry about hitting the ball just right every time. The fiberglass face adds a nice pop to your shots, while the polymer honeycomb core helps absorb vibrations.
The grip feels good in your hand, with its ridged and perforated design. It’s 4.8 inches long, giving you plenty of room to find a comfortable hold. You’ll also get a carrying bag and some balls to get you started right away. While the paddles are USAPA approved, you might want to upgrade the balls for serious play.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a pickleball paddle under $30, keep these key factors in mind:
Weight
Look for paddles between 7-8.5 ounces. Lighter paddles offer more control, while heavier ones provide more power.
Grip Size
Choose a grip that fits your hand comfortably. Most paddles have grips between 4-4.5 inches in circumference.
Core Material
The core affects the paddle’s feel and performance. Common materials include:
- Polymer: Offers good control and a soft feel
- Nomex: Provides more power and a harder hit
- Aluminum: Balances power and control
Face Material
The paddle face influences spin and durability. Options include:
- Graphite: Lightweight with good control
- Composite: Durable and offers a balance of power and control
Shape
Paddle shapes vary and impact your play style:
| Shape | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Wide body | Larger sweet spot, more forgiving |
| Elongated | Smaller sweet spot, more reach |
When choosing a paddle, remember to consider your skill level and playing style. If possible, try different options to find the best fit for you.
