The Best Indoor and Outdoor Pickleball Balls: The Complete Guide [2023]
Updated: July 21, 2022
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Searching for the best indoor and outdoor pickleball balls can be a challenge with so many options on the market.
In this guide, I cover various categories, including indoor and outdoor pickleball balls for recreational and tournament play and large-quantity purchases.
Players will have their own opinions, and I’ve made this list of the best pickleballs based on my own experience and many players’ opinions. I’ve also taken the opinions of professional pickleball players into consideration.
All balls in our top pick list are approved for tournament play by the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA).
Continue reading to find out how you can up your game with the right choice of pickleball balls.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Pickleball Balls: Understanding the Key Differences
Indoor and outdoor pickleball balls are designed for different play environments, so choosing the right type for your setting is crucial.
Here’s a detailed comparison of the two types of balls:
| Feature | Indoor Balls | Outdoor Balls |
|---|---|---|
| Hole Size | Larger holes | Smaller holes |
| Hole Number | Fewer holes | More holes (26 – 40 holes) |
| Material Surface | Softer | Harder, smoother |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Durability | Less durable against elements | More durable, resistant to wear |
| Control | Easier to control | Harder to control |
| Impact Sensitivity | Less painful upon impact | More painful upon impact |
| Environmental Suitability | Better for smooth indoor surfaces | Designed for rougher outdoor surfaces |
| Wind Resistance | More affected by wind | Better performance in windy conditions |
Indoor balls are lighter and easier to control but less suited for outdoor elements.
Outdoor balls, with their smaller, numerous holes and heavier build, offer durability and better wind resistance but require more force in play and are harder to control.
In Focus: The Best Indoor and Outdoor Pickleball Balls
Explore the best pickleball balls for every setting and purpose. This section evaluates the best indoor and outdoor options for tournaments, recreational play, and bulk purchases, helping you make informed choices based on performance and durability.
Snapshot of Top Pickleball Balls for Every Category
The Best Indoor Pickleball Balls for Tournament
ONIX Fuse G2
Onix Fuse G2 balls have smaller holes, which will help balance them and make them a good option for indoor and outdoor play.
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The ONIX Fuse G2 indoor pickleball stands out with its robust construction. It offers consistent bounce and remarkable visibility in its vibrant green hue. USAPA-approved, this ball is a top pick for tournament players.
As the successor to the popular ONIX Pure 2, the Fuse G2 hits the sweet spot for both competitive and casual play. It’s ready for action straight out of the box, with no conditioning needed.
Known for superior seam welding, the Fuse G2 demonstrates enhanced durability, resisting splits and cracks effectively.
However, while the ONIX Fuse G2 excels in balance and performance in the wind and indoor conditions, players should note its lifespan may be shorter during intense play sessions.
The Best Indoor Pickleball Balls for Recreation
Available in white or green, the Jugs Sports pickleballs are seamless, durable, and will withstand a decent amount of play.
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Ranked as the best indoor pickleball balls for recreation in our list, Jugs Sports Pickleball balls offer an economical yet high-quality option.
USAPA-approved for tournament play, they are also the go-to choice for frequent indoor sessions at clubs and recreation centers.
Choose from white or neon green to suit your court’s backdrop best. These balls, noted for their softer plastic and higher bounce, bring an extra level of playability to the indoor game.
ONIX Pure 2
Onix Pure 2 balls are known for being the quietest on the market.
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The ONIX Pure 2 holds the title of the second-best indoor pickleball ball for recreation on our list.
Although discontinued, its legacy of positive reviews keeps it as a runner-up on our list, with ample availability online for those looking to snag this classic.
Despite its discontinued status and higher price point than Jugs, the ONIX Pure 2 is prized for its quiet play. It’s an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments, pairing perfectly with polymer-core paddles for a quieter game.
The Best Indoor Pickleball Balls for Bulk Orders
Jugs Pickleball Balls
Players comment that the Jugs Pickleball ball is easier to see than most other balls, is available in white and lime green, and will last longer than most.
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Jugs pickleball balls stand out as the economical choice for indoor players seeking durability in high quantities.
These USAPA-approved balls come in bulk packs 100, striking the perfect balance between cost and convenience for clubs and rec centers. With 40 precision-drilled holes, they ensure a consistent flight pattern.
Notably, their indoor design tends to outlast outdoor balls, and the quality seam welding significantly reduces splits and cracks.
Players commend Jugs for their playability, although they’re not meant for prolonged, intense use.
The Best Outdoor Pickleball Balls for Tournament
Dura Fast 40
Dura Fast 40 is built to perform, flying true, straight, and fast. It’s rotationally molded as one piece with 40 precisely drilled holes, allowing consistent flight and bounce.
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The Dura Fast 40 is renowned for its consistent performance in both tournament and recreational play.
Favored by regular tournament participants, this ball is commonly used in practice sessions to mirror the competitive environment, aiding players in their preparation for official matches.
Not only is the Dura Fast 40 USAPA tournament approved, but it has also been a staple in the sport for years, specifically designed for outdoor and hard-court play.
However, while it’s celebrated for its longevity compared to other balls under similar conditions, the Dura Fast 40’s durability can vary.
Factors such as weather, play style, and court surface impact its lifespan, which, according to the manufacturer, ranges from 3 to 10 games in harsh conditions.
Despite its frequent use in prestigious events like the USAPA National Championships, its shorter lifespan can be a drawback, leading to higher replacement costs for frequent players.
The Best Outdoor Pickleball Balls for Recreation
TOP Ball
Manufactured by Pickleball Central, TOP outdoor balls are rotationally molded for strength, straight flight, and a predictable, even bounce.
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With one-piece seamless construction, TOP balls don’t have any weak points, and they are evenly balanced.
These balls are made with a patented 40-hole pattern that makes them perfect for outdoor play.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly, long-lasting pickleball balls that are also available in large quantities, these are a great option because they are more affordable than Dura or Onix.
Many players appreciate these balls but there were some complaints about them not being round or losing their shape.
Generally, most players like playing with these balls, but there have been reports of inconsistent manufacturing.
The Best Outdoor Pickleball Balls for Bulk Purchase
Franklin Sports X-40 Pickleball Balls
The Franklin Sports X-40 outdoor pickleball ball weighs 26 grams and has a very balanced flight pattern due to the 40 very precise machine-drilled holes.
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The seamless design means that the Franklin Sports X-40 Pickleball Balls has no weak points, and it should last for hours of play. Because of the hole placement, it’s easy to control.
It’s USAPA-approved for tournament play and a great option for practice and recreational play.
Available in red or yellow. Choose whichever color you think will be easiest to see.
These pickleballs are more expensive than Jugs indoor balls but players appreciate the quality.
The Best Indoor and Outdoor Pickleball Balls for Bulk Purchase
GAMMA Photon
The GAMMA Photon is liked by players because of its durability and the neon yellow or green that makes it easy to see.
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The GAMMA Photon pickleball balls stand out as a top choice for both indoor and outdoor play.
They offer great value and have garnered a substantial following of satisfied players.
The 2-piece construction of these balls ensures a balanced performance right out of the box, eliminating the need for conditioning and maintaining consistent bounce levels.
This feature makes them an accessible and reliable option for players at all levels, from beginners to advanced competitors.
Additional Pick: Quiet Pickleball Ball for Noise-Sensitive Courts
Gamma Sports
If you’re in a community with noise restrictions or simply prefer a quieter practice session, consider the Gamma Sports balls.
Originally designed as a children’s tennis ball, the Gamma Sports ball is slightly heavier and smaller with a lower bounce. This makes it an excellent choice for quiet practice sessions in noise-sensitive environments, whether you’re playing indoors or hitting against a garage wall.
Its unique design allows for effective practice without the high noise level of standard pickleball balls.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Indoor and Outdoor Pickleball Balls
Exploring the best indoor and outdoor pickleball balls reveals options that cater to every player, from competitive tournament participants to casual court enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at top choices that enhance gameplay across various settings.
The ONIX Fuse pickleball ball stands out for indoor tournament play with its consistent bounce and USAPA approval, making it a reliable choice for serious competitors. For casual indoor play, Jugs Sports pickleball balls offer durability and affordability and meet USAPA standards.
Outdoors, the Dura Fast 40 excels in tournaments and is favored for its precision and compliance with official standards. For those playing casually outside, the Franklin X40 offers excellent value with its durable build and consistent performance.
For further guidance, consider watching the insightful video below. It categorizes pickleball balls by player level—beginner, intermediate, and pro—providing a unique perspective that complements this article’s recommendations.
For players looking to make informed decisions about their equipment, this guide offers valuable insights into selecting pickleball balls that will suit their game style and meet their needs, ensuring enjoyment and a competitive edge in every game they play.
FAQs – The Best Indoor and Outdoor Pickleball Balls
Can you use indoor pickleballs outdoors?
Yes, you can use indoor pickleballs outdoors, but you may find that the ball doesn’t bounce as expected and doesn’t hit well, especially during windy conditions. Since indoor pickleball balls have fewer and larger holes, they are less likely to hit as planned and can more easily get caught by the wind.
What are the official pickleball balls?
The official pickleball balls are those included on the list of USAPA-approved balls. Currently, the USA Pickleball Association has 84 balls on the approved list. In 2021, the Franklin X-40 was the official pickleball for the USA Pickleball National Tournament and National Championship Series tournament.
Are core pickleballs good?
Core pickleball balls are known to be good, consistent, and long-lasting, and they’re on the USA Pickleball Association’s list of approved pickleballs. Some players like them because of the neon green color that’s available.
What does “Condition” mean to a pickleball ball?
Conditioning a pickleball ball means playing with it until it bounces between 30-34 inches, as the USAPA requires. New balls often exceed this height initially.
Current regulations mandate that balls meet this bounce standard directly from the manufacturer without prior conditioning for tournament approval.
What are the differences in lifespan and player preferences between indoor and outdoor pickleball balls?
Outdoor pickleball balls typically have a shorter lifespan due to exposure to elements like sun and heat and are made from harder materials. Despite this, the Dura Fast 40 is favored for its performance in competitive settings, though it doesn’t last as long. In contrast, the ONIX Pure 2 Outdoor ball is preferred for its durability and cost-effectiveness, offering extended play and value, making it highly rated among players. Indoor balls generally last longer and have different material properties suited to less abrasive indoor court surfaces.
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