7 of The Best Cheap Pickleball Paddles (2023)

Here’s our list of the best cheap pickleball paddles – making it easier for you to choose.

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Last updated: August 31, 2023

Pickleball is a new sport for you and you’re not sure whether you’ll like it? You want your own pickleball paddle but you also don’t want to break the bank.

I’ve included some of the best budget pickleball paddles on this list that are affordable, not wooden paddles, and might even interest more advanced players on a budget.

Sure, the list includes some really cheap paddles (inexpensive) but their quality makes them suitable for new players.

Hopefully, you’ll find the right paddle for your pickleball game.

books on pickleball

Upstreet Pickleball Paddle

Paddle at a Glance

The Upstreet pickleball paddle is one of the best pickleball paddles for the price and the cheapest on our list but the grip circumference might be a little too large for smaller hands. It’s quite responsive, has a large sweet spot, with decent control and power.

One important factor to consider when buying a pickleball paddle is the weight of the paddle. The Upstreet pickleball paddle is a heavy paddle and may not be the best option for someone who hasn’t played pickleball, or tennis or for someone who is prone to tennis elbow.

Hitting

The polymer honeycomb core provides a firm, crisp feel that allows for consistency when playing different shots. Whether you’re dinking, playing cross-court lobs, or firing back volleys, the paddle remains predictable and confidence-inspiring.  

Core & Surface

This paddle can be used by both beginner and intermediate pickleball players with the graphite surface proving good spin characteristics and helps when hitting groundstrokes with plenty of topspin. Check the Upstreet Pickleball Paddle on Amazon.

Look & Fit

The paddle is fairly robust and holds its own during regular. It’s not uncommon to replace paddles after regular wear and tear but the Upstreet paddle will outlast some of its more expensive competitors.

While there have been a few problems with quality in the past, Upstreet stands behind its product warranty and honors claims without any problems. It’s good value and a big step up from wood paddles. It’s the cheapest paddle on our list.

So, if you’re looking for a cheap pickleball paddle that includes some more advanced technology and provides the basics, then this beginner-friendly paddle is a good option, especially for tennis players.

Best Bang for Your Buck

Amazin’ Aces Signature

Paddle at a Glance

Expensive paddles aren’t necessary and this Amazin’ Aces Signature pickleball paddle is at an affordable price range, proving that there are affordable, quality paddles available on the market. It’s a great option for new players, with a standard-sized face, a large sweet spot, a comfortable grip, and is USAPA approved.

We think this Amazin’ Aces paddle is one of the best paddles for the price point due to the quality and feedback from many players. It’s a bonus that it’s USAPA approved for tournament play.

Hitting

The paddle helps with the power game and provides a crisp impact with extra power on groundstrokes and volleys.

Core & Surface

The paddle face doesn’t have much texture compared with other cheap pickleball paddles, which means it will be more difficult to put spin on the ball. Probably not a deal breaker for those who are new to the game or just want to hit the ball around for fun. A more experienced player will choose a higher-end paddle. Have a look at this Amazin’ Aces paddle on Amazon.

Look & Fit

The handle is solid with a very comfortable grip. However, the paddle head is heavier, and that might make it a little more difficult when playing at the non-volley zone (kitchen). Great for playing powerful groundstrokes and volleys.

Smaller players may struggle with this paddle, so it’s better suited to players with a solid grip – not great for the swing, playing at the net, or dinking.

Runner Up

ProBetter Pickleball Paddle

Paddle at a Glance

The ProBetter pickleball paddle is one of the heavier paddles on our list making it less suitable for players who need a lighter paddle for better control or have tennis elbow. It offers good control and absorbs powerful groundstrokes easily but there’s not much pop off the face.

But if you’re looking for the best value pickleball paddle, the ProBetter is a great option.

Hitting

Once you’ve got used to the feel, dinks and cross-court lobs are fun and baseline shots are accurate, making it easier to apply a bit of topspin and ensure the ball lands inside the court.

Look at ProBetter on Amazon.

Core & Surface

The textured surface provides a decent spin, but it is not as good as some of its competitors.

The graphite carbon fiber face is hard wearing and this paddle should last a long time even with regular usage. This is an entry-level paddle, but both beginners and intermediate players find the paddle easy to play with, and for players who are wanting a paddle with finesse, it’s well worth the money.

The face is standard size with a slightly curved edge. Singles players may find that their reach is a little limited and will have to do a bit more work around the court. See ProBetter on Amazon

Look & Fit

The cushioned grip is very comfortable and will fit most hand sizes. With both cushioning and perforations, the grip provides excellent control even when it’s hot and humid.

Niupipo Pickleball Paddle – Best Budget Pickleball Paddle

Paddle at a Glance

The Niupipo Pickleball Paddle paddle comes in under $50 and is an excellent choice for the money and the best budget pickleball paddle on our list. Designed as an introductory paddle, the grip is small and suitable for children and adults. Extra tape on the grip will increase the size, making it suitable for players with larger hands too.

Some players may struggle a little with the shorter handle. It’s not the paddle to choose if you want to play two-handed which is common for someone with a tennis background.

Paddle Surface & Core

The fiberglass face gives the paddle a solid feel and when paired with the poly honeycomb core provides plenty of power for ground strokes and power shots.

While this is not a control paddle, players are complimentary of its ability in this department. As most of your game is spent close to the net, you want a paddle that is easy to get into position with the ability to control whatever your opponents throw at you. This paddle provides that in buckets.

Hitting

Despite its lighter weight, the paddle does provide plenty of power thanks mainly to its polymer core. The paddle absorbs vibration quite well and provides plenty of feel for control shots around the kitchen.

The only downside is the lack of spin that would push this paddle to the top of the line-up. The face could do with a little more texture. Look at this niupipo pickleball paddle on Amazon

Fit & Look

The paddle is lightweight and easy to handle. It is complemented by a comfortable grip that does a good job of absorbing moisture.

The handle is a little on the short side which may not suit some players. Its all-black face and bright design are not to everyone’s taste.

VERSIX Strike 4F – Best Low Cost Pickleball Paddle

Paddle at a Glance

This paddle comes in well below $50 which makes it excellent value for money.

This lesser-known paddle performs well and is a firm favorite with players new to pickleball. It’s a lightweight paddle making it great for agile movement and the comfortable grip makes playing with this paddle a pleasure. It provides plenty of feel and the fiberglass face generates plenty of power.

Paddle Surface & Core

The durable polypropylene core and composite fiberglass face impart plenty of power, especially for larger players.

The face has a standard fiberglass finish which still provides plenty of feel as well as creating adequate spin.

Have a look at Versix Strike on Amazon.

Hitting

Despite its lightweight construction, the paddle’s well-balanced core and face are strongly bonded to provide a solid hitting surface. Players are complimentary of this paddle’s ability to hit accurately, although the sweet spot may not be quite as large as other paddles.

Fit & Look

Great looking paddle face – the black face is beautifully set off by the subtle honeycomb design and striking graphic design. The shades of blue and graduated white octagonal motif round off a professional-looking paddle. 

The paddle’s small yet, very comfortable grip is well-suited to players of all sizes. Should you require a thicker grip, additional layers can be added for the perfect fit.

The slightly longer handle provides space for two hands to give a little extra zip to your backhands.

Rally Tyro

Paddle at a Glance

This paddle is excellent value for money.

Slightly uneven surface texture which doesn’t meet USAPA’s requirements and is designed for recreational play.

Paddle Surface & Core

Unusual for an entry-level paddle to offer a thick core but it has .50″ polymer core helping hit the ball far into the court. A decent sweet spot and lightweight for better ball control and placement.

The Rally Tyro2 has a high-strength performance polypropylene honeycomb core, powerful composite face and edge guard grip technology that is durable.

Hitting

Despite its lightweight construction, the paddle’s well-balanced core and face are strongly bonded to provide a solid hitting surface. Players are complimentary of this paddle’s ability to hit accurately, although the sweet spot may not be quite as large as other paddles.

Fit & Look

The absorbent, thin grip fits almost all hand sizes and allows for quick reactions and maneuverability. Flared end cap prevents slips and offers a great paddle feel.

Top Pickleball Paddle Set

Selkirk neo (SLK)

Paddle at a Glance

A pair of pickleball paddles for under $80 is a great deal.

This Selkirk neo set comes with balls as well, which means you can be up and playing quickly. A great entry-level paddle with quality features to make this an excellent first paddle for beginners.

Its light weight makes it easy to handle and the vibration-absorbing construction is quiet and easy on your hands.

The comfortable grip absorbs moisture easily and is just the right size to be able to get two hands on the handle for more powerful backhands.

Paddle Surface & Core

The paddle face is a textured graphite surface with a honeycomb polymer core.

You get to enjoy a large sweet spot which is perfect for players new to the game. Stronger players may find that the paddle doesn’t pop quite as much as they would like but for learning how to control the ball this is a great introductory paddle.

Have a look at the SLK on Amazon.

Hitting

For players from other racquet sports, hitting with a pickleball paddle can be a little unnerving as there is usually a lot more vibration transferred through the handle. The Selkirk absorbs this vibration well making it comfortable to use and providing excellent control.

While not a spin paddle, there is sufficient texture on the face to provide plenty of topspin on your forehands and backspin when you need it on your backhands.

Fit & Look

The paddle is best suited for smaller players as its lightweight construction is easy to handle.

It doesn’t have a particularly long handle but the face is wide enough to provide plenty of hitting surface. While you can hit accurately with this paddle, some players complain of a bit of a dead spot feel when hitting towards the outer parts of the face.

The grip is comfortable and is great for those players with smaller hands. You can easily get both hands on the handle for two-handed backhands.

The paddles are black with either a red or blue motif giving them a very professional, slick look and feel.

FAQs – Best Cheap Pickleball Paddles

Summary – Best Cheap Pickleball Paddles

Hopefully, this list of the best cheap pickleball paddles has helped you determine which pickleball paddle you want to buy.

Our top pick for the best cheapest pickleball paddle is this Upstreet pickleball paddle. There are cheaper paddles but this one is a reasonable price and you get a paddle that will work well for most beginners.

Our choice for a paddle where you’ll get the best bang for your buck is the Amazin’ Aces paddle. It’s a solid paddle that is also USAPA approved so you can use it in sanctioned tournaments. Just a bit more than the Upstreet paddle, but you get a slightly better-made paddle.

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