The best budget pickleball paddles

1. Franklin FS Tour Featherweight Series Dynasty

The choice of several top pros, including Parris Todd, this paddle is the king of value right now. Several other similar paddles are in the $180-$200 range, making this one a steal. It’s thin core provides plenty of pop and maneuverability, and the fact that it is super lightweight means players have a lot of room for customization by adding lead tape to the perimeter, which will increase power and unlock this paddle’s potential.

2. PIKKL Vantage Pro

As the choice of top men’s pro Gabe Tardio, the Vantage Pro is a steal at its low price. The Hex-Core offers a reliable and consistent feel with every strike, while the foam perimeter adds stability, expands the sweet spot and absorbs vibrations for precise feedback.

3. HEAD Radical Tour EX

The Radical Tour EX offers a great balance of power and control while also generating good spin. This specific model is great for tennis players transitioning to pickleball with its long handle and elongated shape. And many of those players need no introduction to the quality of HEAD products.

4. Selkirk SLK Halo Pro Max

The SLK series from Selkirk has long hit the sweet spot between performance and value, and the Halo Pro Max is the latest example of that. New to the line is the carbon fiber Kevlar LinkWeave hitting surface, which increases dwell time, while the 14mm core offers good pop.

5. VERSIX® Vector XL Genie Bouchard Signature

Designed in conjunction with tennis pro turned pickleball pro Genie Bouchard, the Vector XL boasts an elongated shape and thermoformed construction to help players with a tennis background thrive on the pickleball court. Most players should consider the standard weight model first as it will offer more forgiveness and higher performance out of the box.

Worth checking out: JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16

Originally engineered to the specifications of Ben Johns (no, really, he considers product design an actual hobby!), this Hyperion CFS 16 Graphite Paddle provides impressive spin and touch. Its 16mm polymer core is paired with JOOLA’s Carbon Friction Surface (CFS), creating a textured surface that grips the ball, making it ideal for players who love to add topspin or slice their shots.