Whatever your skill level or preference, you'll find a pickleball paddle to fit your play style in this list. After testing over 200 paddles, we've selected the few that are actually worth your money. We play with each paddle for 10 hours and pit them against each other so you'll know exactly which ones give you control, hit with the most power, or offer the nastiest spin.
As of our February 2026 update, the best paddle is still the Honolulu Sword & Shield J2NF. It ticks the most boxes, performing better than practically every other paddle while costing below $200. Read on to find even more great options.
Best pickleball paddles at a glance
Note: we work with brands to get our readers the best prices. Make sure to use our links or discount codes when purchasing to get the listed price. Codes may be subject to change when products are on sale. Check the final price at checkout.
Best overall
Our Rating:
1. Honolulu Sword & Shield J2NF
The J2NF has the biggest sweet spot and near-perfect ratings in power, spin, and control. It's a high-tech paddle that's $100 cheaper than its foam-core competitors.
The B&B Loco is a great all-rounder. It's superpower is helping you go from intermediate to advanced level by giving you huge power without sacrificing spin or control.
Cheaper paddles are improving but none hit the value of the Warping Point Neon. For under $100, it has surprisingly few drawbacks with fantastic control and forgiveness alongside great spin.
The impressive all-round Holbrook Fuze scores 10/10 on power and control. This rivals the Loco as a paddle in the $200 range for players at all levels and comes within inches of stealing J2NF's number 1 position.
Light, maneuverable, and forgiving, the V-SOL Pro is built to help beginners improve with a foam core that gives you extra dwell time, so you can learn to control your shots from day one.
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No pickleball paddle generates more spin than the RPM Friction Pro, and a heavy spin that dips the ball at your opponent's feet, turning your best attacking shots into ones that are much harder to return.
The Honolulu J2NF is still the best overall paddle early in 2026, but there are plenty of new additions as well. Rising through the ranks, the Holbrook Fuze came very close to taking the top spot and even gives the unshakeable Bread & Butter Loco a run for its money. It might well steal the crown after a bit more time on the court, but for now, it remains one to watch.
The 11SIX24 Vapor Power 2 marks a new entry as our best all court model, meanwhile the FLiK F3 edges out the Six Zero Coral for the title of best control.
A closer look at the best pickleball paddles
Let's take a look at how each of these paddles plays and who they're best for. If you want a comprehensive breakdown of specs, on-court performance from our play testing, and side-by-side comparisons, you'll be able to click through to our full reviews of each paddle.
no need to worry about hitting dead center – this paddle is forgiving right across the face, with a super consistent bounce.
You like paddles with a lot of pop:
the ball comes off the fiberglass face with a satisfying pop for players who like to play aggressively.
You like fast hands battles:
this one is lively at the kitchen zone, with a low 110 swing weight, allowing you to react with speed.
Pass if:
You want max power:
if you're a power purist, try the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik.
You want a choice of paddle shapes:
the B&B Loco and Holbrook Fuze are the biggest rivals to this paddle and they both come in all three shapes (widebody, hybrid, elongated).
You want a cheaper alternative:
the Warping Point Neon is just as forgiving and costs less than $100.
Foam pickleball paddles took over the market in the last year, promising more power, spin, touch, and durability. The Honolulu Sword & Shield J2NF is the standout, most user-friendly foam paddle.
Save 10% on the Honolulu Sword & Shield J2NF
With our 10% discount the J2NF costs $175.50 – amazing value for a paddle built with a foam core. It should last a long time, saving you money against a new paddle.
Like more expensive foam paddles (CRBN TFG4, Selkirk Boomstik), there's a lot of power here. What sets the J2NF apart is its massive sweet spot. It's one of the most forgiving paddles I've ever tested, and the best hybrid paddle for forgiveness.
It's so easy to keep the ball in play because the broad sweet spot covers almost the entire paddle face. The bounce is the most consistent you'll find. The fiberglass and carbon fiber surface brings plenty of pop too, just off the levels of the CRBN TruFoam series (which costs $80 more).
You won't find the same cushioned dwell time here as you get with the CRBN. The ball pops off the face a little more. However, the elite-level forgiveness and spin mean you can still keep the ball in easily and play a fast game thanks to the low swing weight.
If you want a quick, poppy paddle with the best forgiveness, this is for you. New players who want a beginner paddle can get a lot out of it because it's so forgiving and controlled. Intermediates to advanced players who don't want to spend over $250 will love this paddle also as it brings in enough power to compete at the highest levels. It really can do it all.
I don't think I've seen a paddle that blends such a big sweet spot with explosive pop before. Usually, super-forgiving paddles are super-soft too. The J2NF bucks the trend, delivering great power and the highest levels of forgiveness. At $175.50 (when you use our 10% discount code), it offers a big saving against premium brands like CRBN, Selkirk, and JOOLA.
if you need to put the ball away, the Loco has that power; if you need to control the point, it’s excellent on dinks and resets.
You want a paddle with awesome spin:
the grit on the paddle face is so good, ideal for putting spin on my backhand rolls and deep serves.
You want a super-fast paddle:
the Loco is lightning-fast in hands battles – especially the standard and hybrid models.
Pass if:
You want a pure power paddle:
if you’re less concerned about control and just want a raw power paddle, check out the explosive Selkirk Boomstik.
You want the craziest spin:
the RPM Friction Pro has the most impressive spin generation of any paddle on the market.
You want a cheap paddle:
try the Warping Point Neon or Vatic Pro V-SOL – two of the best paddles ever in the $100 range.
Another foam paddle at a great price, the Bread & Butter Loco rivals the Honolulu J2NF for best performance. One of the best control paddles on the market, it doesn’t lack power by any means.
This is a great all-round paddle that works best as an intermediate pickleball paddle. That's not to say players at beginner or advanced levels can't use it – they can – but the Loco has all the tools to help intermediates advance to the next level.
I made this my main paddle and it took my skill level up from a 4.5 immediately. It’s so good I’m having a very hard time reaching for my JOOLA. At $179 (with our 10% discount code), it matches the J2NF on value.
It may not have the 10/10 forgiveness of the J2NF but it makes up for it with a feel that’s more plush and controlled. You get more dwell time on the Loco’s paddle face to help you shape your shots with the highest accuracy.
It’s one of the best spin paddles I’ve ever used, which boosts its competitive edge. There’s plenty of power when you want to hit aggressively too, and I can put overheads away with ease.
I’ve been playing the most competitive games of my life against 5.0 level players since I started using the Loco. I think that skilled players can get the most out of it as there's a higher ceiling with this paddle.
Get the elongated model for the most power, the standard for the largest sweet spot, and the hybrid for an in-between.
It’s hard to recommend the J2NF over the Loco. Both are incredible paddles at mid-range prices. The Loco edges it on control, with a more responsive feel and better dwell time on the paddle face. This paddle works for anyone but especially intermediate players who want to compete with advanced players without spending $250.
one of the best touch paddles, it absorbs power so well and excels on drops, dinks, and resets.
You want a super-forgiving paddle:
the sweet spot is massive and it's actually hard to mishit with this paddle, it's that good.
You want a fast paddle:
this is a lightning-fast paddle that flies through the air – I was so quick in hand battles and on counters.
Pass if:
You want a power paddle:
the Neon is more of a control paddle so check out the Six Zero Black Opal or Selkirk Boomstik.
You like elongated paddles:
this is a hybrid-shaped paddle – try the elongated Loco if you have a higher budget.
You want a more premium paddle:
if you have a high budget, the CRBN TruFoam Genesis 4 has a premium Gen 4 foam construction and advanced performance.
The Warping Point Neon is not only the best paddle under $100, but it's one of the best control paddles in the game, full stop. I can't believe how cheap it is. It easily rivals paddles that are double the price.
Save 10% on the Warping Point Neon ($90)
This is one of the best-value paddles that's ever been released at $100. We worked with the Warping Point team to get our readers an exclusive $10 discount, so you can get it for just $90.
While it's not a pure power paddle like the Six Zero Black Opal or Selkirk Boomstik, there's good pop that (when combined with the super-fast speed) makes you aggressive on drives when you swing hard. It's as controlled as the B&B Loco and Holbrook Fuze despite costing half the price. It's even more forgiving than those paddles, too.
The Warping Point Neon comes in one model: a hybrid shape with a 16 mm core. The thicker core is what gives you such good touch, but less power than a 14 mm. The hybrid design makes it a fast paddle. This is actually a high-quality T700 raw carbon fiber paddle – tech that usually costs way more and gives you high levels of spin.
Unlike the other budget paddle in our lineup (the Vatic Pro V-SOL), the Neon is not a foam paddle. If you want the latest long-lasting tech, Vatic Pro is one of the only brands to offer it in the $100 range. If you don't need foam tech, you're still safe with the Warping Point. It's as durable and well-made as any non-foam paddle.
The huge sweet spot makes it one of the most forgiving paddles and solidifies it as one of the best beginner paddles. If you're a higher-level player who relies on speed, spin, and placement over raw power, you'll love this paddle too. In fact, our pro paddle tester Taylor Gervais started using it in 5.0 level tournaments and it's now his main paddle. Not bad for 90 bucks!
The Warping Point Neon blew me away. I've never played with a budget paddle as good as this. For just $90 (with our discount), you're getting one of the best control paddles with elite forgiveness, speed, and spin. This bodes well for the future of pickleball if paddles this cheap can play this well.
very few paddles have ever scored full points on power plus control – this is a super-exciting paddle that's aggressive and controlled.
You play with fast hands:
insanely quick for an elongated 16 mm paddle – we scored it 10 for aerodynamics in our full review.
You want a forgiving paddle:
thanks to the foam core and big sweet spot, even when you hit a tame shot the ball goes over the net.
Pass if:
You want the paddle with the most spin:
while spin is definitely not lacking here, it's not as impressive as the RPM Friction Pro.
You want a cheaper alternative:
the Warping Point Neon is an excellent budget paddle – fast and spinny with great touch – for half the price of the Fuze.
You want a pair of paddles:
the SLK Neo 2.0 is an expertly crafted beginner pickleball paddle set from top brand Selkirk.
The Holbrook Fuze is the one to watch in early 2026. Just when you thought nothing could top the Honolulu J2NF and B&B Loco, Holbrook came out swinging with a foam-core paddle with an incredible balance of power and control.
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The Fuze retails at $230 ($30-35 more than the J2NF and Loco), but we secured a big 15% discount from Holbrook and Pickleball Central. That takes it down under $200, putting it in a great price range to challenge the $250-330 paddles from CRBN, JOOLA, and Selkirk.
Like the J2NF, this is a rare one that works as a beginner pickleball paddle because it has such excellent control and forgiveness. However, it's also so powerful that it can be an intermediate pickleball paddle and an advanced paddle, too.
One thing that sets the Holbrook Fuze apart is its design. Most all-court paddles have a hybrid build, but the Fuze is an elongated paddle (more power) with a 16 mm core (more cushion).
This paddle delivers exactly what you want: raw power plus excellent control. They put aramid fiber in the paddle surface along with carbon fiber, which gives it great touch and dwell time on the face.
The dwell holds the ball a moment when you need to hit shots with accuracy. When you swing hard, it turns into a trampoline, launching the ball with serious acceleration. It's a power that you can control and manipulate. In that way, it reminds me of the $280 CRBN TruFoam Genesis.
Finally, the Fuze is also a lightning-quick paddle that cuts through the air. Even if you add lead tape to your paddle, it doesn't slow it down. For a 16 mm elongated paddle, it's impressively fast in hands battles.
We've been blown away by the Holbrook Fuze. This is a paddle I didn't see coming. It's a serious challenger for top spot as it gives you everything you need across power, control, forgiveness, and speed. With our 15% discount, it costs just under $200. If you want to play a fast, aggressive game without losing any control, it's for you no matter your skill level.
this is extremely quick in the hand, one of the fastest paddles I've seen.
You want a great spin paddle:
spin is almost as impressive as the RPM Friction Pro and J2NF, with insanely good topspin for a bargain paddle.
You want a foam paddle at a budget price:
this is the first foam paddle I’ve seen in the $100 range – this durable tech usually costs upwards of $150.
Pass if:
You want a power paddle:
you’ll get more natural, effortless power out of the Black Opal and Boomstik paddles.
You need a bigger sweet spot:
the Warping Point Neon (budget range) and Honolulu J2NF (mid-range) have the most forgiving sweet spots.
You're a more advanced player:
once you move past beginner level, upgrade to a more advanced paddle like the CRBN TruFoam Genesis 4 or FLiK F3.
Vatic Pro is a very popular budget brand that makes top-quality pickleball paddles in the $100 range. The V-SOL Pro is the legitimate heir to their bestselling PRISM Flash paddle. It keeps the great touch of that paddle but updates it with a new foam core that adds dwell time and a plush and consistent feel.
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For $99.99 (when you use our discount code), it’s a value that's hard to beat. The amazing Warping Point Neon is its closest rival but that's not a foam paddle. So, if you want the most up-to-date tech, go with the Vatic Pro.
There's high-grade Toray T700 carbon fiber on the face of the paddle that generates wicked spin. The main improvement from the PRISM is a big boost in pop – I can hit solid baseline drives for such a cheap paddle.
The low weight is a standout. It gives you the best of both worlds. Play with it right out of the box if you want one of the quickest lightweight paddles around. Or you have the luxury to customize this paddle with lead tape to find your optimal weight.
One thing that struck me about the V-SOL was my ability to manipulate the ball. This paddle is so maneuverable and there's great dwell time on the surface and awesome topspin too. All of this allows you to get right under the ball and shape the ball however you want. I kept rolling shots over the net that dropped right at my opponent’s feet before they could react.
The Vatic Pro V-SOL Pro offers a premium performance and paddle design for new players. One of the most maneuverable paddles I’ve seen, it flies through the air and lets you manipulate the ball with nasty spin. With a Gen 4 foam core, it should outlast every other $100 paddle.
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the RPM generates more spin than even the top paddles from Selkirk and Six Zero.
You like lightweight paddles:
with its low weight (7.9 ounces), this is a light and fast paddle that gives you quick hands.
Power is more important than control for you:
this is a poppy paddle and the ball flies off the face – it doesn't have much softness or dwell time for touch shots.
Pass if:
You're looking for more of a control paddle:
the FLiK F3 has great spin too, with more control and forgiveness than the RPM.
You want the most powerful paddle right now:
try the Six Zero Black Opal or Selkirk Boomstik.
You want a budget paddle:
the Vatic Pro V-SOL Pro is a gem for $100 (with our discount) – it's not far off the RPM in spin generation.
If you want the very best paddle for spin, this is my recommendation. I thought paddles couldn't get any spinnier – paddles like the Selkirk Boomstik, B&B Loco, Six Zero Black Opal, and Honolulu J2NF all seemed to max out spin. Then the RPM Friction Pro came along and blew us out of the water – it gets more spin than any of them.
Save 15% on the RPM Friction Pro ($212.50)
At $250, this is up there with the pricier paddles but we've worked with the team at RPM, headed by pro player James Ignatowich, to get you a 15% discount. At $212.50, it's money well spent if you want to invest long term in your game. The grit on the paddle face is excellent quality and lasts a long time.
This was built for max spin and it truly delivers. The grit is so intense, it lets you generate a crazy amount of dip and topspin. My backhands and dinks were simply unreturnable sometimes.
It's a quick paddle with a lot of pop when you're attacking at the net, you can put so much spin on the ball that it drops unexpectedly at your opponents' toes and catches them out.
The power is built around explosive pop rather than dwell time. If control is your priority or you want power that's more dwell-based, check out the FLiK F3 or Holbrook Fuze instead. You can also read our guide to the difference between dwell-based power and pop-based power in pickleball paddles.
If spin takes priority over everything else, there's only one choice for you: the RPM Friction Pro. It's not as rounded as some of the other paddles but it comes with great pop-based power and a light weight that will appeal to quick, attacking players. At $212.50 (with our exclusive 15% discount), it's fairly priced between mid-range and high-end paddles.
foam paddles are built to avoid issues like delamination so the TruFoam 4 should stand the test of time.
You want power and control:
this model nails the balance of softness from the foam core with a poppy fiberglass face for aggressive play.
You play a fast game:
this hybrid model is one of the quickest paddles I tested this year, and the fastest in the TruFoam series.
Pass if:
You want a more forgiving sweet spot:
the Honolulu J2NF and FLiK F3 are the most forgiving paddles for intermediate to advanced players.
You're new to pickleball:
the sweet spot isn't huge – you'll have an easier time with mishits with a paddle like the Vatic Pro V-SOL or Warping Point Neon.
You don't want to spend $250:
there are great alternatives in the $200 range like the Bread & Butter, Honolulu, Holbrook, 11SIX24, and FLiK paddles.
CRBN led the foam paddle revolution with their TruFoam Genesis line, which quickly became the flagship series for foam paddles. The 4 model is the best of the bunch because its hybrid shape combines lightning-fast speed with reach and power.
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It does cost $252 (with our 10% discount), but the best foam paddles are built to last a lot longer than polypropylene paddles. So, you should see a great return on your investment over time.
Gen 4 foam pickleball paddles increase paddle durability as they don't degrade over time like many earlier Gen paddles, even from top brands. They also offer boosts in spin and control without sacrificing power versus Gen 3. Not all deliver on this promise but this paddle definitely does.
The soft foam core works to dampen the ball and give you lots of dwell time (where the ball sits on your paddle face) to place your shots with precision. Combine this with the strong carbon fiber face and you've got one of the best pickleball paddles for spin to help you hit awesome sliced backhands, topspin drives, and shaped dinks.
When you need to amp up the power, the fiberglass layer kicks in for putaways. On top of that, this hybrid-shaped paddle is one of the fastest on the market. That speed is great on flick speedups and in hands battles.
This is for anyone from intermediate level up who wants the best of what Gen 4 foam tech can offer. It's super premium and the higher your level, the more you'll appreciate this versatile and deadly paddle.
CRBN kickstarted the foam paddle trend with the TruFoam Genesis series, but it wasn't until they brought out the fourth paddle that it all clicked. Power, control, speed, and spin all combine for an amazing all-court paddle with a performance that won't degrade over time. If you're an advanced player who wants the best tech out in pickleball right now, this is your paddle.
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this paddle leads with a plush and controlled feel, with heavy spin and great aggression when you want to hit hard.
You like fast paddles:
up there with the Holbrook Fuze as one of the most aerodynamic, quickest paddles in the game, even when weight is added.
Longevity matters to you:
one of the most durably built paddles I've seen – the foam core, the HexGrit face, and the paddle edges should hold up a long time.
Pass if:
You want a raw power paddle:
check out the Six Zero Black Opal or Selkirk Boomstik if you're a banger.
You want a budget all-court paddle:
try the Warping Point Neon or the Vatic Pro V-SOL, excellent paddles nearer the $100 mark.
You want a paddle set:
grab the SLK Neo 2.0 from Selkirk, the best beginner set of paddles with a high-quality design.
The 11SIX24 Vapor Power 2 is an elite all-court paddle that lets you be on top of your game all over the court. It's practically flawless when it comes to control and accuracy, it's consistently forgiving, it generates heavy dipping spin, and it's got the power you need to complement all of the above.
Get $10 off the 11SIX24 Vapor Power 2 with code PICKLEHEADS10
This paddle is priced alongside the J2NF, Loco, and Holbrook Fuze at $200 (with our $10 discount). What sets it apart is its durability. 11SIX24 showed me one of these paddles that was used for months and the grit on the surface was almost identical to my brand-new paddle. This increases your value for money big time if it means you can keep this paddle for a long time.
Besides their patented "HexGrit" surface tech, 11SIX24 went with the durable Gen 4 foam core. This paddle should outlast many of its competitors. It's a hybrid-shaped paddle and it's one of the fastest I've ever played with.
On control, the Vapor Power 2 is up at the highest levels with the Loco and Holbrook Fuze. It doesn't have as much power, but beginners and lower intermediates will find plenty of aggression, while higher-level players who add weighted tape to their paddles can boost the power significantly.
I like how you can use the paddle's speed, spin, and touch to hit aggressive dinks and it excels on counters too.
The 11SIX24 Vapor Power 2 is a super-impressive all-court paddle that's built to last. If you want one of the fastest hybrid paddles around, with awesome touch and accuracy, amazing spin, and plenty of power when you need it, grab this. At $200 (with our $10 discount), it's another top rival to the best paddles for beginners, intermediates, and advanced players who don't want to spend $250 or more.
the Black Opal surprised me with how aggressive it was, with a big boost in pop and power over the Six Zero DBD.
You want the best spin:
you can feel the premium grittiness on the "Diamond Tough" surface and generate big dipping topspin with this paddle.
You still need control:
if you’re a player who can handle pop, you’ll be able to use the spin, sweet spot, and speed of this paddle to hit shots with good accuracy.
Pass if:
You’re a beginner:
the pop will be too much for you, so try a beginner paddle like the Vatic Pro or Warping Point.
You want a cheaper alternative:
the J2NF from Honolulu is a similar paddle – hybrid shape, awesome spin, good pop – for $50 less.
You want an elongated paddle:
I recommend checking out the excellent Bread & Butter Loco Elongated (if it’s in stock).
Six Zero’s DBD Control was for long the best all-court paddle. The new Black Opal takes that all-court performance and brings in the power you need in today's fast-paced game without being overwhelming for casual players.
Save 10% on the Six Zero Black Opal ($225)
At $225 (with our discount), it's priced between the J2NF and CRBN, JOOLA, and Selkirk paddles. I think it's one of the most exciting paddles of 2026 and definitely a worthy investment.
This is the first paddle in almost two years from Six Zero and they've put their own twist on Gen 4 foam tech. You don't get the same plush feel that you find with some foam paddles, but you get more power.
The grit on the paddle face is incredible. That was the standout feature of the DBD, and it’s made its way to the Black Opal. This time, the surface is diamond-infused and it gets you even more spin.
I had so much fun playing with the Black Opal and quick, hard-hitting players will love it. I pulled off one of the most satisfying shots of my pickleball career – a rocket drive down the line that I still can’t quite understand. My opponents didn't even flinch as the ball sailed past them.
If you're a rising intermediate or advanced player who likes a lot of pop, you'll get a great all-court game out of this paddle. Beginners and new intermediates will probably want the more forgiving J2NF or Holbrook Fuze.
I’m a big fan of Six Zero and they did not disappoint with their comeback paddle. This is a trademark hybrid-shaped paddle that delivers a welcome blend of raw power, touch, and speed. Get it if you’re a rising intermediate or advanced player who likes to play aggressively.
the F3 nails dwell time – the ball rests on the paddle face just the right amount to let you manipulate it with precision, spin, and power.
You want a super-forgiving paddle:
matches the J2NF for forgiveness with a huge sweet spot and a plush foam core – it's easy to predict where your shots will land.
You like having a choice of shapes:
the FLiK F3 comes in standard, hybrid, or elongated shapes to match your style.
Pass if:
You want the most powerful paddle:
this has great controlled power but pure bangers will prefer a more explosive weapon like the Six Zero Black Opal or Selkirk Boomstik.
You're a beginner:
4.0+ players will get the most out of this paddle – new players can save money with the Vatic Pro V-SOL.
Your budget is $100:
luckily, the Warping Point Neon is an amazing control paddle for all skill levels at just $90 (with our exclusive discount).
The FLiK F3 is the best control paddle because it has the optimal dwell time on the paddle face. It's so consistent no matter where on the paddle you hit and your resets can be virtually unattackable as you direct your opponents' hard shots back at them with precise accuracy.
Save 10% on the FLiK F3 ($171)
The F3 is priced in the same tier as the J2NF and B&B Loco, retailing at $190. Our 10% discount makes it $171. This is yet another excellently priced paddle for intermediate players, or high-level players who don't want to spend over $200.
Compared to its rivals, the F3 works better for players with a pickleball skill rating of 4.0 and above. A lot of paddles have great control but this is for upper intermediates to advanced players who want an elite control paddle that they can manipulate to play a super-competitive game against other top players.
The standout feature is the triple foam core, something I haven't seen before. You've got three rings of foam inside the paddle, from the center to the edges, which is why the dwell time and forgiveness are so impressive.
The surface has three layers of raw Toray T700 carbon fiber for spin and durability. The core is a thicker, cushioned 16 mm and the paddle comes in all three shape choices with a static 8-ounce weight that keeps it light in the hands.
The FLiK F3 is a touch paddle that can push your opponents to the limit. Placing shots with accuracy, spin, speed, and power, you can send them stretching all over the court trying to return your balls. A super-forgiving foam paddle, it costs just $171 with our 10% discount.
if it's max power you're after, nothing goes harder than the Boomstik.
You want incredible spin:
this scores full marks on spin too – Selkirk's renowned InfiniGrit face has been updated again and it's better than ever.
You still want a forgiving paddle:
this has an unexpectedly large sweet spot for a raw power paddle, giving you increased precision on off-center hits.
Pass if:
You want more controlled power:
the FLiK F3 has great power too but it's easier to control and rein it in.
You want a cheaper power paddle:
this is one of the most expensive paddles ever launched – the Six Zero Black Opal can save you more than $100 with our discount.
You want the best budget paddle:
the Warping Point Neon is the best $100 paddle right now.
Not many pickleball brands can slap a $333 price tag on a paddle but Selkirk is not your average pickleball brand. This is one of the most engineered creations in the sport ever, a foam paddle weapon from the renowned Selkirk Labs.
We were lucky enough to fly out to Selkirk's HQ for a sneak peak at this paddle in development and it was mind-blowing to see the research and work that went into making it.
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While the price puts it out of some people's reach, surprisingly I see a ton of Boomstiks at the courts. If you're ready to invest, this is the most powerful paddle on the market and it’s built to last a long time, ensuring you get your money's worth.
If you're a power junkie, the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik is your best friend. I didn't think we'd see a paddle that’s more explosive than the JOOLA Pro IV series or Gearbox GX2 Power but Selkirk did it. This is one of the best power paddles ever made, and it’s built with next-gen tech.
Like the CRBN TruFoam paddles, the core here is 100% foam, so this paddle should outlast previous gen paddles. Selkirk's new InfiniGrit face is strong and grippy, and generates some of the best spin I've ever encountered.
You get two shape choices here. The elongated one skews more powerful, while the widebody skews toward more forgiveness (the sweet spot is larger again). Both paddles have long handles for two-handed shots.
If you're a beginner, I recommend a softer paddle because the pop here can be a lot to handle. If you like a strong power paddle, though, the sweet spot gives you great forgiveness on off-center hits so your strong drives have way less risk of sailing long. You can hit hard shots with great accuracy and spin.
The Boomstik is the future of power paddles. Made with a durable foam core, it amps the power up to 11 while still managing to have a wide sweet spot for lots of forgiveness. If you want to swing hard and play offensively, I can't think of a better choice for you, as long as you're ready to invest in the most premium of paddles.
this set is ideal for beginners, giving you everything you need to start playing with a friend.
You want a top-quality set:
Selkirk delivers on their reputation – the bag is great quality and the balls are much better than other budget set balls.
You're on a budget:
$60-90 is an amazing price for two quality paddles, a pickleball bag, and four balls.
Pass if:
You're past beginner level:
these paddles lack the power, spin, and control that intermediate and advanced players need.
You don't need a full set:
if you only need one beginner paddle, try the Vatic Pro V-SOL.
You want a heavier paddle:
these are super-lightweight (7.5 oz) – try the Warping Point Neon (7.8-8.1 oz) for a slightly heavier option that's affordable and great for beginners.
The SLK NEO 2.0 is the best pickleball paddle set because you get two top-quality beginner paddles from one of pickleball's most respected brands, Selkirk, at a budget price. This far outshines the cheap sets you see all over Amazon. The paddles can actually help you improve from the get-go, starting your pickleball journey the right way.
Get two paddles for $89.99 with the SLK NEO 2.0
They're long lasting too, with a strong edge guard to protect the paddles. That's all to say: your $60-90 investment (depending on the set you choose) will go a really long way.
While these paddles don't offer the spin and power of elite paddles, they have more than enough for beginner-level paddles. This is down to the design quality and "SpinFlex" textured face.
Most importantly for beginners, Selkirk built in a big sweet spot so you don't need to worry about mishits while you learn how to play. In fact, forgiveness levels are right up there with the best control paddles, reminding me of the large sweet spot on the Holbrook Fuze.
If you're a new player, this set will really help you find your feet on the court. The paddles are lightweight and easy to swing, with a comfy grip. Don't expect much pop and spin – you'll want a more expensive paddle like the $100 Warping Point Neon for that – but there's enough to keep you competitive for sure.
This is miles better than any budget set paddle I've tested. I can generate spin and play real competitive games against intermediate players. If you're just getting into pickleball but don't want to waste time and money with low-quality products, this bundle from Selkirk is your best bet if you want a full pickleball set.
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Find the perfect paddle
I've personally tested over 200 paddles. Take the quiz to see which ones fit your game best.
In 2026, there are more paddles than ever to choose from and the quality just keeps getting better. Not everything can claim a top spot, but some come so close that there's just a hair in it between them and the best of the best. Read on for some honorable mentions – all great alternatives for the right person.
Mid-range power paddle
Our Rating:
Honolulu J6CR
A beast of a power paddle for under $200. The latest release from Honolulu is a wild paddle for out-and-out bangers. Pre-order the Honolulu J6CR now.
Save 10% with code PICKLEHEADS at checkout
Premium foam paddle
Our Rating:
Engage Alpha Pro
The Engage Alpha Pro is one of the most controllable yet powerful foam paddles. Expertly weighted, this is hands-down the best paddle that Engage has made.
What the pros are using
Our Rating:
JOOLA Perseus Pro IV
The paddle of choice for the GOAT Ben Johns, the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV delivers raw power and a plush, premium feel. This is a top pro paddle for serious players.
All the hallmarks of a premium paddle at a reasonable price. Grab this if you want explosive power, awesome spin, speed, and control without spending $250.
The Friday Fever is a contender for the best budget pickleball paddle. It's an amazing all-court paddle for under $100 with a plush feel, awesome control and forgiveness, 10 out of 10 spin, and good power too.
We also reached out to pickleball pros and top coaches to get their opinions on the best pickleball paddles. Here's what they said:
WD
Wayne Dollard
Wayne is the Publisher of Pickleball Magazine, Director of LevelUp Pickleball Camps, a 5.0 US Open Gold Medalist, and USA Pickleball National Champion. His LevelUp Pickleball Camps have taught over 25,000 beginner, intermediate, and advanced players since 2017.
What type of paddles would you recommend to someone looking for their first paddle, and why?
Wayne recommends harder paddles with a good amount of power, “something that beginners like to have since controlled dinking and drops are not a big part of their games," he said. The Friday Original is a good example of a harder, more powerful beginner paddle.
What paddles would you recommend to someone looking for their first "investment" or upgrade paddle, and why?
"Once you move up to that intermediate level you should be focused on a better all-around paddle for improved control and power. If you are willing to work the mid-court with drops, you will need a paddle with a better sweet spot and more control. Of course, this comes at a cost."
Are there any other paddles you strongly recommend, and why?
"There are so many great paddles and manufacturers. My recommendation is to ask your local pro for demos or borrow as many paddles as you can. You will quickly find out the type of paddle that best suits our game."
JC
Jackie Cheung
Jackie is a 5.0 player and founder of the women-led tournament and event organizer PickleballChicks.
What type of paddles would you recommend to someone looking for their first paddle, and why?
Jackie’s answer differs from Wayne’s here, and shows that paddle preferences can be highly subjective: "For beginners, I usually recommend something affordable with a generous sweet spot to make learning easier," she said.
What paddles would you recommend to someone looking for their first "investment" or upgrade paddle, and why?
Jackie recommends paddles that strike “that perfect balance between power and touch” and are durable and built to last.
Are there any other paddles you strongly recommend, and why?
"Once you get into the game, the best thing you can do is demo! Try a bunch of paddles meant for control, power, different materials, paddle lengths, brands etc. and see what works best for you."
How we test our pickleball paddles
The Pickleheads team is proud of our hands-on testing approach to all the paddles and gear we review. All of the paddles listed above were put through rigorous on-court sessions by myself and my colleagues.
This means a minimum play time of ten hours per paddle across multiple sessions (though we've played with all of these paddles for at least 15 hours and many of them much more than that).
When selecting our top paddles, we consider not only overall performance (power, control, etc.) but also crucial factors like price, value, and the type of player the paddle appeals to.
We have intense debates before we come to a general consensus for our best-of paddle guides. Often, the top paddles stand out from the rest, and it's sometimes the case that we all agree quickly on what the best paddle is.
The Honolulu J2NF is one of those paddles – for all of us, it offers the best all-court performance at the best price to help the largest number of players improve their game.
Picking your perfect paddle depends on how you play, not just your budget or what's trending. New players can sometimes make the mistake of buying the latest hot paddle, only to discover that it's not right for them.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a pickleball paddle:
Skill level
Some paddles are better for new players, others work best for pros, and there are many in between. Let's break down the skill levels so you can see what each group should prioritize in a paddle:
Beginner (2.0-2.5)
Newer players should focus first on building up their accuracy, getting the ball to stay in the court. You'll want a paddle that's not too explosive when it comes to power and pop.
That's why softer paddles that prioritize control are recommended. If they have a larger sweet spot, the paddle is more forgiving – even if you hit the ball away from the center of the paddle face, you should still get a consistent bounce.
You've gotten used to touch shots like drops and dinks. Now you want a bit more power and spin, without sacrificing too much softness and forgiveness just yet. This is where all-court paddles shine.
Look for a paddle that's well-rounded and offers a consistent performance across power, control, spin, and forgiveness.
Pickleball has become much more of a power game than it used to be. Advanced players are hitting more drives to win quick points and create offensive opportunities. So it’s no surprise that power is the most important thing advanced players need in a paddle.
Different players have different styles of play. Let's look at three main types of play style and how they affect what paddle you should get:
Control-first
Your game is more about strategic shot placement rather than overwhelming your opponent with power. You rely on accuracy to win points. You like to play as the defensive partner in doubles games. If that's you, you'll want a paddle that scores high on control.
Spin is often important too, as it lets you shape your touch shots to vary them and catch your opponent out. You might also like paddles with larger sweet spots because you get a more consistent response across the paddle face, with less dead zones where the ball falls flat.
You're what we call a "banger" – someone who likes to put their opponent on the backfoot. You're the aggressor, and you like paddles that lead with power. Spin is super important for you too, combining with your power shots to give you a competitive edge.
For a while, a lot of power paddles focused so much on pop to the point where they were downright explosive, and lacked in control. Many of these were eventually deemed to be "illegal" and banned by USA Pickleball.
Newer paddles are replacing them, finding a way to give you almost the same level of explosiveness while maintaining a lot more control for a better-rounded performance.
You're a player who wants a strong blend of power and control. Ideally, you'll get a paddle with lots of spin, good forgiveness, and a balanced weight distribution too. Beware, though: tons of brands claim that their paddles are all-court paddles.
In truth, finding a paddle with a truly impressive balance of the top attributes is rarer than you might think. That's why reading real reviews from on-court testing is so important.
Paddle shapes
The shape of your paddle also affects how it plays. Here are some things to know about the three shapes of a pickleball paddle:
Elongated shape
An elongated paddle is longer in length and narrower. The most common dimensions are 16.5x7.5 inches but I've seen paddles (like the Pickleball Apes Pro Line Energy) that are 17 inches long.
Elongated paddles naturally offer the most reach, and they're usually the most powerful too. They tend to be a bit slower than hybrid and standard-shaped paddles, though some offset this with well-designed weight distribution.
Hybrid shape
A hybrid paddle lies between an elongated and a standard-shaped paddle – that is, it's a little shorter and wider than an elongated paddle. They're known for having curved tops, which make them move through the air faster than elongated paddles.
A good hybrid paddle gives you the best of both worlds – some of the power of an elongated paddle matched with some of the forgiveness and speed of a standard-shaped paddle.
Standard shape
Also known as widebody or square-shaped paddles, a standard-shaped paddle is shorter in length and wider. The typical dimensions of the paddle face are 16x8 inches, with some variation. Standard paddles are often faster and more forgiving, due to having a wider playing surface that enlarges the sweet spot.
Not all pickleball paddles are created equal. Reading reviews is so important so that you don't just go and buy the first paddle you see. You should take time to read about paddles that are recommended for beginners. These are usually lighter, with a widebody face that gives you the most forgiveness. That will help you get used to placing shots in the court with accuracy, building confidence until you're ready for a more advanced paddle.
This is the thickness of the core of the paddle. Thicker paddles (16 mm and up) usually provide more control because the thicker core softens the impact of the ball, allowing you more room to place your shots with accuracy. Thinner paddles (14 mm and under) are usually poppier – that is, the ball usually flies off the paddle face a bit faster, giving you more power.
Raw carbon is the most popular material in pickleball paddles. It's a durable material that provides a great blend of flexibility and stiffness. It's softer than fiberglass, another popular material.
Not all carbon paddles are the same, however. The type of carbon can vary in quality. It's also not the only factor that affects a paddle's performance. You might get way more out of a $150 Kevlar® paddle than a $280 carbon paddle.
So, while raw carbon is a great, versatile material, it's not the only thing you should look at when buying a paddle.
Not necessarily. Thermoformed paddles were all the rage for a while – they're made from a heating and molding process that fuses the paddle face, core, and edge guard together. While they offer better durability than Gen 1 paddles (the earliest pickleball paddles to be made), some have had issues with delaminating. Many paddle companies are moving past thermoforming with Gen 4 paddles that are made of foam.
I wouldn't rely on a feature like thermoforming. It can be great but there are plenty of non-thermoformed paddles that are awesome too.
Brandon is an avid writer and co-founder of Pickleheads™. Once a competitive tennis player, Brandon can now be found these days honing his dinks on pickleball courts near Phoenix, Arizona.
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