The 9 Best Pickleball Paddles Of 2023 For More Power & Control On The Court

This carbon fiber pickleball racket offers maximum control with high grit and spin. The main difference between the Swift and the Vision model we’ve also included on our list is that this one uses the brand’s “Swift technology,” with upgraded materials to create a lighter, faster swinging paddle. This results in faster hand speed and stronger shots. Even better? Its anti-slip grip offers ultimate handling and shock absorption. The paddle is loved for its durability, lightweightness, and shot consistency.

While, yes, it’s the most expensive option on our list, this paddle has earned high ratings on Amazon and gets a lot of love from advanced players. An IPTPA certified pickleball instructor writes, “This is a great paddle for those who value spin, control and a large sweet spot. It’s in the mid-weight range, although it feels slightly lighter due to the balance. A longer handle than most, this paddle can help with a two-handed backhand as well as providing more reach. JOOLA carbon surface paddles are among the highest spin paddles currently available. I performed the bounce test to show this paddle to be medium spring and hardness.” This reviewer also calls out unique features like the foam injection around the perimeter which improves stability. Negative reviews call out the white handle, which can show dirt easily—this could be solved by wrapping it with tape.

If you’re a pickleball beginner, a lightweight and affordable paddle from a reputable brand like Selkirk is an excellent starting point. This particular paddle has a large sweet spot and ultra-cushioned grip that brings you comfort with consistency and control. Plus, an edge guard helps you keep the ball in play so you can rally confidently in your newfound element. The design is lightweight, meaning your arms won’t tire as easily—but it won’t punch up your power swings like other durable options might.

This beginner’s pickleball paddle has over 400 reviews on Amazon and a 4.5 out of 5 star average rating. One novice pickler writes, “I’m really happy with this paddle. I’m a beginner at pickleball and the instructor commented on how good the quality was for being graphite.” It’s worth noting that some reviewers dislike how loud the paddle is during power hits.

ONIX is a leading brand for pickleball paddles, and this is its most popular paddle. With a wide body and a spectacular touch, it’s suitable for all levels of experience, including professional tournament players. The Z5 paddle is lightweight and adds speed, pop, and agility to your game. Unlike other paddles, this one mimics the handle shape of a tennis racket for extra comfort, and provides great spin and control with an edge guard.

With over 3,000 Amazon ratings, this paddle has a 4.6 out of 5 star rating overall. One reviewer writes, “This is my favorite paddle to use. I love the graphite face, which gives me great ball control and power. It's improved my game quite a lot and I recommend this to others.” A few customers have complained about the handle breaking, all noting that the brand’s customer service attempted to make things right with a warranty and replacement.

This mid-weight professional model is USAPA-approved for competition. It’s available in two sizes and features textured carbon grip surface technology for maximum spin and control, with a curved design that creates less drag and increases swing speed. We’d be remiss not to mention the plastic honeycomb core which absorbs the ball's impact to reduce vibration, lessening arm fatigue and allowing the ball to spring out. For the higher investment (compared to some other options), you get a durable paddle that maintains its shape over time with no frequent replacements necessary.

Picklers absolutely love this paddle, and it’s earned a 4.6 out of 5 star overall rating on Amazon. Not only is it designed for professional use, it’s built to stand the test of time. One reviewer writes, “Unreal spin and control. So good it doesn't seem fair. I've gone from playing with a beg/mid level paddle to this one and honestly, it's like playing a different game.”

Some reviewers feel that the paddle loses some of its dramatic oomph with daily use. To be on the safe side, you can qualify for warranty coverage by buying from JOOLA directly and registering your purchase.

Paddletek’s Pro model is everything a good pickleball paddle should be: easy to control, well-cushioned-yet-grippy, and durable. It’s expensive, yes, but you’re investing in a high-quality pickleball paddle made with textured graphite that’s designed to last through years of play. This paddle has an accuracy-enhancing design, and thanks to its large sweet spot, you’ll get a nice “pop” sound upon contact. Bonus: this paddle comes in five sporty, stylish colors that will spark joy every time you play a round.

With an overall rating of 4.6 out of five stars on Amazon across 550 reviews, this paddle receives a lot of praise. One reviewer writes, “I’ve been playing pickleball for about 8 years now and this is the best paddle I've ever owned. I would highly recommend this paddle for anyone serious about playing pickleball.” The only downside seems to be that it costs more than some other models.

This lightweight pickleball paddle has a longer handle that’s offset by a narrow face. The paddle’s face is made from textured graphite for better ball control, with a sweat-absorbing grip to prevent slipping. Reviewers back this feature, noting that the handle remains grippy even with sweaty hands.

With a 4.6 out of 5 star average rating on Amazon on almost 400 reviews, this pickleball paddle is loved for its lightweight power. One reviewer writes, “After playing pickleball for two years, I advanced to this paddle and what a relief! My lateral epicondylitis is almost resolved. Just the difference in weight of the paddle has made a difference in my pain.” Another adds, “I love this paddle. It’s lightweight but still has the power of a heavier paddle. I’m hitting better shots with the extended length.”

Ready to crush some power shots? Heavier pickleball paddles offer more power, which is something you’ll appreciate if you want to put some extra “oomph” behind your swing. This pick brings an edged rim for shock absorption, with a textured polycarbonate face to help with topspin. Note, while it has a sweat-absorbing, cushioned handle, the paddle is shorter in length than the others on our list (something to keep in mind if you prefer a longer handle).

This paddle boasts an overall rating 4.7 out of five stars on Amazon. One reviewer says it has “a grip and weight that’s perfect.” Another writes, “This is my third Paddletek paddle now and it doesn’t disappoint. I bought the TS-5 pro for the light weight and control, but I wanted to graduate to a heavier paddle. I didn’t know if I could get the control with a heavier paddle, but the only thing different seems to be the weight. This is a great paddle!”

With a highly-textured skin, responsive face, and 0.5-inch thick core, this graphite pickleball paddle helps improve control and precision. The paddle has a dimensioning technology that makes it easy to add topspin to the ball, and is a good pick for intermediate and advanced players looking to level up their game. The design is thicker, but it retains a large sweet spot in the center. There’s also an option for an oversized handle.

Amazon picklers have given this paddle a 4.5 out of five-star overall rating for its great level of control, comfortable handle, and accuracy. One writes, “This paddle is a total game-changer. It’s powerful with a textured surface allowing me to put topspin much like tennis or ping pong.”

This graphite and fiberglass paddle is lightweight and offers game-changing speed. The aramid honeycomb core is perfect for blending power and control, and benefits beginners and advanced players alike (plus, it complies with USAPA specifications). The cushioned grip absorbs sweat so you can handle your paddle with confidence. Gamma notes that this pickleball paddle is great for both indoor and outdoor use, providing great bounce on all types of court surfaces.

With over 1,200 ratings, this paddle has an overall rating of 4.5 out of five, with call outs that it’s lightweight, durable, and a good value for the money. One person writes, “It's a high quality paddle and couldn't fault any part of it. The grip on the face is perfect so it does everything it's supposed to do.” While Gamma markets this paddle for all experience levels, one reviewer says, “Ok for a beginner, but after maybe a half a dozen sessions, and using other people’s paddles, I am ready for an upgrade.” If you’re an experienced pickler, you may consider a more professional-grade option.