The paddle market has exploded in the last few years, and you'll see prices ranging from $30 to $250. The good news: you don't need to spend $200 to play well. Here are the best paddles under $100 right now.
Our Top Picks Under $100
Selkirk SLK Halo — $89
The Halo is the easiest recommendation for new and intermediate players. It's lightweight (7.6 oz), has a generous sweet spot, and offers excellent control for dinking and placement shots. The carbon fiber face gives it a premium feel at a non-premium price.
Pros: Lightweight, forgiving, premium feel for the price
Cons: Less power than heavier paddles, not ideal if you love aggressive drives
Franklin Sports Pro — $49
If you want to try pickleball without committing to a big purchase, the Franklin Pro is legitimately good. It's not a toy or a beginner throwaway — it's a real paddle that holds up to regular play. Polymer core, solid construction.
Pros: Excellent price, surprisingly solid, great for testing the sport
Cons: Less control refinement than higher-end options
HEAD Radical Elite — $80
HEAD brings its tennis DNA to pickleball with the Radical Elite. It's a bit heavier (8.1 oz) which gives more power on drives, and the fiberglass face provides great spin potential. Comfortable grip, solid build.
Pros: Good power, excellent build quality, name-brand reliability
Cons: Heavier feel, less forgiving on off-center hits
Gamma Needle — $75
A strong mid-range option with a textured fiberglass surface that grips the ball well. The elongated shape gives you more reach, which some players love. Great for all-court play.
Pros: Good reach, textured face for spin, versatile
Cons: Slightly smaller sweet spot due to elongated shape
Onix Graphite Z5 — $90
The Z5 is one of the most popular paddles ever made, and it's been updated over the years to stay competitive. Wide-body shape, graphite face, nomex honeycomb core. It's a classic for good reason.
Pros: Time-tested design, great control, widely available
Cons: Older core technology, power players may want something newer
What to Look for Under $100
Weight: 7.5–8.2 oz is the sweet spot for most players. Lighter means more control and less fatigue; heavier means more power.
Face material: Graphite and carbon fiber faces give you touch and control. Fiberglass gives you more power and spin potential.
Core: Polymer cores (used in most paddles) give you the best balance of control and touch. Nomex cores are stiffer with more power but less forgiveness.
You can play great pickleball on any of these paddles. Don't let gear anxiety slow you down from getting on the court.