If you’re looking to dive into pickleball without overspending, we've got a few recommendations for you featuring some of the best pickleball paddles in 2024 and heading into 2025.

We’ve broken down the top-performing inexpensive paddles to help you find the perfect one. And since everyone's definition of "inexpensive" is a little different, we've broken down these picks by specific price range.

Whether you're a seasoned player looking for a backup paddle or a new player looking to upgrade from an entry-level option, you’ll find something to elevate your game.

"Inexpensive" Doesn’t Mean "Cheap"

One quick note: “cheap pickleball paddles” often get a bad reputation, but don’t let the price fool you.

Many affordable paddles on the market offer great quality, durability, and control, thanks to advanced materials and innovative core technologies.

In this guide, we focus on paddles that combine value with performance instead of just focusing on the cheapest paddles because we believe that quality has to figure into overall value.

Best Pickleball Paddles Under $150

This category is ideal for players ready to invest in higher-quality paddles without going all-in on super-premium, performance paddles.

These paddles offer a balance of power, control, and spin that serious players will appreciate. Best for: those who aim to get to a 4.0-5.0 level some day.

1. Paddletek Bantam EX-L Pro Paddle

• Price: $149.99
• Rating: 4.6/5 from 68 reviews
• Best For: Balanced players needing control and power

You can spot the Paddletek Bantam EX-L Pro at courts around the country, and there's a good reason for that.

With its thicker polymer honeycomb core, this paddle delivers a unique combination of touch, pop, and precision that elevates both the soft and power games.

The updated core technology gives this paddle a slightly larger sweet spot, making it easier to control shots near the edges. Its polycarbonate surface adds to its durability.

Key Features:

• Weight: 8.2 – 8.8 ounces (average 8.5 ounces)
• Surface: Polycarbonate with a 1/4” longer surface area
• Grip Size: Small (4 1/8”) or Large (4 3/8”) for personalized comfort
• Length: 16” with a width of 7-7/8”

Pros:

• Thicker core offers exceptional control on dinks and blocks
• Adequate sweet spot that helps with consistent touch
• Available in two grip sizes for a customized feel

Cons:

• Players seeking a paddle with extra pop may need an adjustment period

User Insight:

“I loved the Bantam EX-L Pro’s responsive touch for drop shots and serves. Dinking was incredibly easy with its soft feel, and the large sweet spot made it forgiving on slight mishits.”

Buy it here.

2. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 Graphite Paddle

• Price: $159.95; sale prices fluctuate
• Rating: 4.7/5 from player feedback
• Best For: Players prioritizing spin and control

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 cut their shots.

The handle length (5.5”) enables double-handed control, while its Hyperfoam edge wall creates a large, forgiving sweet spot that distributes weight evenly.

Key Features:

• Weight: Options at 8.4 ounces (standard) or 7.9 ounces (Swift)
• Surface: Carbon Friction Surface for max spin
• Grip Size: 4 1/4” circumference with Sure-Grip Technology
• Length: 16.5” with an extended handle

Pros:

• CFS technology makes it easy to apply spin
• Extra-long handle supports two-handed shots
• Larger sweet spot ideal for both blocking and power shots

Cons:

• Slightly heavier; may not suit players preferring lighter paddles

User Insight:

“This paddle performs across the board. Spin shots are incredibly controlled, and I felt like I could reach and put away every ball with the extended handle.”

Buy it here.

Best Pickleball Paddles Under $100

Our picks under $125 don’t sacrifice quality for the price. These paddles are well-suited for recreational players or anyone upgrading from a beginner paddle without going over budget.

1. Engage Trident Composite Paddle

• Price: $79.99
• Rating: 4.5/5 based on customer reviews
• Best For: Players focused on control and versatility

Engage’s Trident Composite Paddle uses a unique 5-layered GripTEK skin, providing the maximum allowed surface roughness under USAPA regulations.

This makes it a solid choice for players looking to enhance control while still enjoying decent power on slams and returns.

With its medium grip and 5” handle, the Trident is comfortable for prolonged play and responsive on touch shots.

Key Features:

• Weight: 7.3 – 7.8 ounces (average 7.5 ounces)
• Surface: GripTEK 5-layer composite for long-lasting roughness
• Grip Size: Medium, with perforated cushion to manage sweat
• Width: 8 1/8” with an even sweet spot

Pros:

• Durable composite face holds up well over time
• Broad sweet spot for a forgiving, consistent touch
• Light but sturdy, ideal for quick reactions

Cons:

• Some players may find it lacks power on hard hits

User Insight:

“The Trident is perfect for finesse players like me. It has the right balance of softness and control for dinks, while still giving me the power I need for put-aways.”

Buy it here.

2. Six Zero Quartz Paddle

• Price: $89.99
• Rating: 4.4/5 based on feedback
• Best For: Players who want spin and control on a budget

The Six Zero Quartz combines a lightweight design with a high-performing raw carbon fiber face, enhancing dwell time and allowing for tremendous spin.

Its unibody construction makes it more durable and stable than many paddles in this price range. With a polypropylene honeycomb core, this paddle provides the ideal mix of control and manageable power.

Learn More: Six Zero Started in a Backyard - Now, it's a Pioneering Pickleball Paddle Brand

Key Features:

• Weight: 7.6 – 8.2 ounces (average 7.9 ounces)
• Surface: Raw Carbon Fiber for enhanced spin
• Grip Size: Medium, with perforated leather for comfort
• Core Thickness: 15mm, enhancing durability

Pros:

• Raw carbon fiber face provides excellent grip and spin control
• Lightweight and maneuverable, easy on the wrist
• One-piece unibody adds stability and strength

Cons:

• Less power than paddles with thicker cores

User Insight:
“The raw carbon face gives an impressive feel. I can really control the spin on each shot, and it’s been durable even after hours of daily play.”

Buy it here.

3. HEAD Boom Team EX 2024 Paddle

• Price: $99.95
• Best For: Intermediate players looking for power on a budget

HEAD’s Boom Team EX 2024 Paddle is the choice for players who want power without giving up too much control.

This paddle’s 13mm polypropylene core offers impressive energy return, while its extended 16.5” length helps with reach on every shot.

The SpinOn fiberglass surface lets players add rotation to serves and dinks, making this a strong option for intermediate-level players.

Key Features:

• Weight: 7.7 – 8.1 ounces (average 7.9 ounces)
• Surface: Fiberglass with SpinOn texture for spin
• Grip Size: Small (4 1/8”) with a HydroSorb Pro grip
• Length: 16.5” extended reach

Pros:

• SpinOn technology enhances spin potential
• Powerful core for energy on smashes
• Extended length for better reach

Cons:

• Lighter weight may not be for players needing heavy paddle feedback

User Insight:

“The Boom Team EX hits hard and helps me keep opponents on the back foot. It’s great for big swings but still precise on softer shots.”

Buy it here.

Any Paddle Under $75: Be Careful

Can you buy a good pickleball paddle under $75? The shortest, most reliable answer is: only if it's on sale.

Right now, a reasonably durable, well-performing pickleball paddle that costs less than $75 is hard to find. The Kitchen is hesitant to make recommendations on paddles if we can't guarantee their quality.

That doesn't mean it's impossible to find one, and that doesn't mean you shouldn't buy one in that price range.

But if you're a beginner player looking for a reliable pickleball paddle, we'd like to draw your attention to "The Vicious Cycle of Paddle Buying," which looks something like this: 

• "I’m not going to buy a paddle," you say. "I’ll just borrow someone else’s."
• "Damn, that was fun." Guess Amazon gets your $20-30 after all.
• *Plays a few more times* "This paddle sucks. Guess Amazon gets $60 more."
• At the end of it, you've spent over $80 when you could have invested that money in something that lasts longer and performs better.

Here's the moral of the story: don't let Amazon get more of your money than it needs to. 

If you think you're going to enjoy pickleball, you probably will. Check out our guide to beginner paddles here.

Ultimately: the most economical way for families or couples to "try out pickleball" as a beginner is to buy a bundle:

• The Franklin X-1000 2-Paddle Bundle comes with two paddles manufactured by a trustworthy brand in sporting goods; plus two of their reliable X-40 pickleballs; all for $69.99.
• For more paddle/ball bundles in larger sizes and different price ranges, check out Pickleball Central's bundles page to find the one that fits your family's needs.

It should go without saying, but if you can try something before you buy it, that should help you confidently make your investment in the sport.

Don't be shy to ask a friendly face at rec play if you can hit a few balls with their paddle. Most of the time, they'll say yes.