Pickleball has exploded in popularity in recent years, and whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, having the right paddle is crucial. Even though there are many expensive pickleball paddles available, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a good one. This guide will walk you through the best paddles under $100, giving you top options that combine affordability with excellent performance.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Pickleball Paddle

Before we dive into the top picks, it’s important to understand what makes a pickleball paddle great. Here are the key factors to consider:

• Material:

• • Wood: Budget-friendly but heavier. Suitable for beginners or recreational players.

• • Composite: A mix of materials like fiberglass or carbon fiber. These paddles provide an excellent mix of control and power.

• • Graphite: Lightweight and highly durable, offering superior control. Best for intermediate to advanced players.

• Weight:

• • Lightweight Paddles (6.5-7.2 oz): Ideal for those seeking more control and maneuverability.

• • Midweight Paddles (7.3-8.4 oz): Offers a balance between power and control. Most players prefer this weight range.

• • Heavyweight Paddles (8.5 oz and up): Provide more power but can cause strain on the arm with prolonged use.

• Grip Size:

• • Small grip sizes (4 to 4.25 inches) offer more wrist action and control.

• • Larger grip sizes (4.5 inches or more) provide stability and reduce arm strain.

• Core Material:

1. • Polymer Core: Soft feel, offers more control.

1. • Nomex Core: Hard and loud, provides more power.

1. • Aluminum Core: Great control but less power.

Top 7 Pickleball Paddles Under $100: Detailed Insights

Finding the right pickleball paddle doesn’t need to be expensive. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a reliable paddle to improve your game, there are excellent options available for under $100. Here’s a deeper look into each of the top paddles, helping you make an informed choice based on your playstyle and needs.

1. Selkirk NEO Composite Pickleball Paddle

• Price: ~$70
• Weight: 7.5 – 8 oz (midweight)
• Material: Composite
• Core: Polymer
• Grip Size: 4.25 inches
• Best For: Beginners to intermediate players.

Why it’s great:

The Selkirk NEO offers an ideal blend of power and control, making it a standout choice for beginners and casual players who want an affordable yet high-performing paddle. The polymer core ensures soft impact and minimizes vibrations, which is excellent for extended play. Additionally, the wide body design of the paddle facilitates players’ finding of the sweet spot, particularly on defensive shots.

Pros:

• Wide body ensures a larger sweet spot, improving shot accuracy.
• Comfortable grip for better handling and wrist maneuverability.
• Balanced performance between power and control, allowing players to develop various playing styles.

Cons:

• Heavier than some competitors, which could affect agility for players who prefer a lighter feel.
• Limited design and color options, which may not appeal to players looking for more variety in aesthetics.

2. Onix Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle

• Price: ~$85
• Weight: 7.5 – 8.2 oz (midweight)
• Material: Graphite
• Core: Nomex
• Grip Size: 4.25 inches
• Best For: Intermediate to advanced players.

Why it’s great:

The Onix Z5 is often regarded as one of the best paddles in the mid-tier price range due to its excellent touch and control. Its Nomex core is known for producing strong, powerful shots while maintaining a lightweight feel thanks to the graphite face. This makes it perfect for players who prioritize precision and responsiveness without sacrificing power.

Pros:

• Durable graphite surface provides long-lasting performance and reduced wear.
• Offers outstanding ball control, ideal for dinking and strategic shots at the net.
• Larger sweet spot helps improve consistency, especially for advanced shots.

Cons:

• Louder impact compared to paddles with polymer cores, which can be distracting for some players.
• Grip tends to wear out faster, requiring replacement or overgrips over time.

3. Paddletek Phoenix G6 Pickleball Paddle

• Price: ~$99
• Weight: 7.8 – 8.2 oz (midweight)
• Material: Composite
• Core: Polymer
• Grip Size: 4.25 inches
• Best For: Intermediate players seeking versatility.

Why it’s great:

The Paddletek Phoenix G6 strikes a great balance between finesse and power. Its polymer core reduces vibrations, which helps to avoid arm fatigue, making it perfect for players who value comfort over prolonged play. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to switch between offensive and defensive play effortlessly.

Pros:

• Provides excellent control for players who value shot precision and placement.
• Reduces vibrations, making it comfortable for players with joint issues like tennis elbow.
• Extremely durable, ensuring it lasts through frequent use.

Cons:

• Slightly heavier compared to other paddles, which might affect quick reaction times.
• The price is near the upper end of the under $100 category, making it less ideal for casual players who don’t want to invest too much initially.

4. Gamma Fusion 2.0 Pickleball Paddle

• Price: ~$60
• Weight: 8 oz (midweight)
• Material: Composite
• Core: Polymer
• Grip Size: 4.25 inches
• Best For: Players looking for affordability without sacrificing quality.

Why it’s great:

The Gamma Fusion 2.0 delivers great value at an affordable price. This paddle is perfect for beginners or recreational players who want a solid paddle without a hefty investment. It combines a comfortable grip with sufficient power, making it easier to perform both offensive and defensive shots.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance.
• Durable construction ensures longevity despite regular use.
• Comfortable grip helps prevent hand fatigue during long matches.

Cons:

• Heavier weight can limit maneuverability for players who prefer lighter paddles.
• Smaller sweet spot, requiring more precision from the player.

5. Rally Tyro 2 Pro Pickleball Paddle

• Price: ~$50
• Weight: 7.4 – 7.8 oz (midweight)
• Material: Composite
• Core: Polymer
• Grip Size: 4.0 inches
• Best For: Budget-conscious beginners.

Why it’s great:

For players just starting out, the Rally Tyro 2 Pro is a fantastic paddle that delivers dependable performance at an entry-level price. It is lightweight, making it easy to handle for newer players, while the polymer core offers decent control and comfort. The smaller grip size also caters to players who prefer a more secure hold, particularly for those with smaller hands.

Pros:

• Incredibly cheap, which makes it perfect for inexperienced or recreational players.
• Lightweight design aids in quick reaction times and improved control.
• Smaller grip allows for more wrist action, improving ball spin and maneuverability.

Cons:

• Doesn’t deliver as much power as higher-end paddles.
• Durability may be a concern with heavy use, requiring an upgrade sooner.

6. Head Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle

• Price: ~$65
• Weight: 8.1 oz (midweight)
• Material: Fiberglass
• Core: Polymer
• Grip Size: 4.25 inches
• Best For: Players seeking more power.

Why it’s great:

The Head Radical Elite is designed for players who prefer to hit with power but still maintain control. The fiberglass face enhances the paddle’s power capabilities, while the polymer core helps maintain the comfort and touch needed for strategic shots.

Pros:

• The durable fiberglass face provides great power, ideal for hard-hitting players.
• Comfortable, cushioned grip improves handling and reduces hand fatigue.
• Offers a good mix of power and control, making it suitable for a range of players.

Cons:

• Heavier than some may prefer, reducing agility and reaction speed.
• Less touch for soft shots, making it more difficult to excel in precision play.

7. Engage Encore Pro Pickleball Paddle

• Price: ~$99
• Weight: 7.8 – 8.3 oz (midweight)
• Material: Composite
• Core: Polymer
• Grip Size: 4.25 inches
• Best For: Intermediate to advanced players seeking premium performance under $100.

Why it’s great:

Known for its superior spin capabilities and control, the Engage Encore Prois one of the most popular paddles among serious players. Its polymer core and large sweet spot make it a go-to for precise shots, especially at the net. Despite its price nearing the $100 mark, the balance it offers between power and finesse makes it a worthy investment for committed players.

Pros:

• Outstanding control and touch, ideal for players focusing on precision.
• Large sweet spot enhances shot consistency.
• Provides balanced power, making it suitable for various playing styles.

Cons:

• At the top of the price range, pushing the $100 limit.
• Heavier for players who prioritize speed over power.

Paddle	Material	Weight	Core	Grip Size	Price
Selkirk NEO	Composite	7.5-8 oz	Polymer	4.25″	~$70
Onix Z5 Graphite	Graphite	7.5-8.2 oz	Nomex	4.25″	~$85
Paddletek Phoenix G6	Composite	7.8-8.2 oz	Polymer	4.25″	~$99
Gamma Fusion 2.0	Composite	8 oz	Polymer	4.25″	~$60
Rally Tyro 2 Pro	Composite	7.4-7.8 oz	Polymer	4.0″	~$50
Head Radical Elite	Fiberglass	8.1 oz	Polymer	4.25″	~$65
Engage Encore Pro	Composite	7.8-8.3 oz	Polymer	4.25″	~$99

Conclusion

Finding the best pickleball paddle under $100 is entirely possible, whether you’re new to the sport or looking to upgrade your equipment. Depending on your play style—whether you prioritize power, control, or balance—there are numerous options to suit your needs and budget. The paddles listed here offer excellent performance without sacrificing affordability.

For beginners, paddles like the Rally Tyro 2 Pro or Gamma Fusion 2.0 provide a great starting point without a hefty investment. For more advanced players, options like the Onix Z5 or Paddletek Phoenix G6 offer refined performance just under the $100 mark.

Key Takeaways

1. Affordable Performance: You don’t need to spend more than $100 to get a high-performing pickleball paddle. Options like the Selkirk NEO and Gamma Fusion 2.0 offer excellent control and comfort at lower price points.
2. Balanced Choices: Many paddles in this price range strike a good balance between power and control, making them versatile for both beginners and intermediate players.
3. Materials Matter: Composite and graphite paddles with polymer or Nomex cores are popular due to their durability, lightweight feel, and ability to reduce vibration.
4. Weight Considerations: Heavier paddles like the Head Radical Elite offer more power but might reduce maneuverability, while lighter paddles like the Rally Tyro 2 Pro enhance agility but provide less power.
5. Sweet Spot Importance: The size of the paddle’s sweet spot greatly influences shot accuracy. Models like the Onix Z5 and Engage Encore Pro offer larger sweet spots, making them ideal for players looking to improve shot consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best pickleball paddle for beginners under $100?

The Selkirk NEO Composite or Rally Tyro 2 Pro are great beginner options due to their balance of power, control, and affordability.

Which paddle offers the most power in this price range?

The Head Radical Elite offers more power, especially for players who prefer hitting harder shots thanks to its fiberglass face and midweight design.

What should I consider when choosing a paddle weight?

Heavier paddles (8 oz+) generate more power but can be harder to control. Lighter paddles offer better maneuverability and faster reaction times but may provide less power.

How important is the paddle’s core material?

Core material affects the paddle’s feel and performance. Polymer cores are quieter and offer more control, while Nomex cores provide a harder hit but are noisier.

Are there any paddles under $100 that advanced players can use?

Yes, paddles like the Onix Z5 and Engage Encore Pro are excellent for intermediate to advanced players who want good performance without going over budget.