Owning a quality paddle in pickleball is one of the most essential parts. Frankly, it can affect your gaming performance as well as your experience. But do you wonder how to find a paddle for just $100 that can deliver you what a high-quality paddle does?
Of course, you do because I’ve also faced the same issues. I still remember a time when wanted to invest by purchasing a paddle under my budget. It was really horrible moment.
On one side, my budget was very low and on the other hand, I was inexperienced in buying a paddle. If you’re short of time, here is my top pick of best paddle under $100.
However, you’re so lucky to get such a guide where I’ll not just review some of the best pickleball paddles under $100. Besides, I’ll also instruct you about what to consider while buying a paddle for yourself.
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Top 5 Best Pickleball Paddles Under $100
Here you’ll find different shapes and qualities of paddles. For example, some paddles mightn’t be good for beginners and others may suit advanced level players.
Same as that, some of them might be great in control while others for power.
In this case, you should be careful about selecting a paddle for yourself. To make it simple for you, just look at your gameplay style and what’s your main focus with this new paddle.
If you’re a tennis or two-hand style player, I’ve covered you with the best pickleball paddle for two handed backhand.
1. ONIX Z5 Graphite Paddle (Best Pickleball Paddle For Power)
As a pickler, you know much more about Onix paddles. But above all this, the Z5 graphite paddle is a great choice for players who are seeking power. Moreover, it’s also known as the best Onix pickleball paddle yet.
I personally appreciate its core material however, sometimes it sounds loud. After using it for a few months, I could say this paddle is usable for both beginner and pro-level players.
1. Powerful and Wide Body Paddle
Power focused paddles are mostly known for their high expenses. But Z5 can give deliver you great power without breaking your control.
While the paddle is a wide body shape that’s why you’ll have a great sweet spot. You’ll mostly hear a power paddle isn’t good for newbies.
But Onix breaks the logic with this paddle with its amazing construction. Compared to other power paddles, you’ll get unbelievable feelings with it.
I can also claim it’s a very light paddle when it comes to the power category. I recommend you to read Detail comparison review of Onix Z3 vs Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddles.
2. Amazing Control With Spin
Sometimes I don’t want to recommend powerful paddles to players. Because of worrying, they’ll face issues with their control.
However, this Z5 changed my mind while giving me ridiculous control. Moreover, you can also hope for enough spin.
Using graphite in the paddle, make it the best choice for players who lakes in control.
3. Very Durable And Lightweight
The paddle is very comfortable with its light version. Because of its lightweight, you’ll feel the grip perfectly and incredible maneuverability.
Plus, it’s also very durable and stylish as well while looking at their previous models. You can also improve your backhand volley because of its flimsy body.
4. Solid Core
My favorite paddle core is Nomex Honeycomb and this time Onix did something unique. Sticking durable rubber to its edge for long-term usage and durability.
Moreover, you’ll find the core very balanced between power and ball spin. You should take a glimpse at the pickleball paddle core if you don’t have any idea about the paddle core.
Pros
- The paddle design very unique and stylish.
- Its core is constructed amazing and very balanced (my favorite point)
- I feel it is the best choice for a newly started player who loves to play with light.
Cons
- Sometimes, I seize the sound loudly more than enough, and disturbing as well.
2. SLK Evo Hybrid Paddles (Best Pickleball Paddle For Beginners)
SLK Evo is one of the brilliant performance paddles. With its high quality and superb construction, your power and control will be balanced together.
Furthermore, its sweep spot is more than enough for beginners and offers a really good touch.
1. Lightweight And Maneuverable
The paddle has a perfect thickness as compared to other paddles and yet you’ll feel it is so light and easy to hold. Its lightness offers you amazing reach and is maneuverable as well.
I interviewed my ground mate about its weight as compared to my new Joola paddle. I was surprised by the time he considered it lighter and also mentioned its well-balanced handle.
Actually, the handle part is a favorite choice for him and it was really comfortable to hold for so long.
2. Larger Sweet Spot With Polymer Core
The paddle core is very soft and thicker as well. In addition, it’s built with Polymer Rev core which will serve you an amazing larger sweet spot.
The overall paddle face materials are very satisfying and soft carbon fiber face.
3. Effortless Control and Powerful
The control is really appreciated without ruining your power quality. The large sweet spot gives you great touch and control for a ball.
Since you’re a beginner or intermediate, then it delivers remarkable control for you. Because of lightness, your control skill will get more improvement for giving easy position reach.
Pros
- The sweet spot is really great.
- You’ll have great speed and reach.
- It’s a very lightweight and comfortable grip size.
Cons
- The handle may feel a little short for a longer hands player.
3. JOOLA Essentials Performance Paddle (Best Pickleball Paddle For Money)
Joola always offers the best paddles for each level player. This time with the Essential Performance edition, they brought great paddles, especially for power.
If you’re looking for power improvement, it’s a great choice to go with even if you’re under the budget.
1. Honeycomb Core With Protection Gaurd
The paddle core is specifically designed with reinforced fiberglass layers. And then it’s compressed with Polypropylene Honeycomb.
Which results in amazing face material for low-budget pickleball players. However, a smooth surface sometimes causes you to lose in control.
But it isn’t an issue at all because of its light and larger sweet spot. The paddle is the very portable and wide body as well. That’s why beginners can also give it a try to own a brilliant experience.
2. Comfortable Grip
The longer handle and soft grip offer you a very calm hold. Moreover, the grip feels like a stackable and great match with hands. With the use of plush and firmness, the grip results are very balanced.
Uniquely constructed and fits very amazingly in the palm of the hand. The length is really matching the paddle body for control.
3. Excellent Power
The calm grip and honeycomb core offer massive power to the ball. That’s also helpful with its extra pop. Moreover, the paddle has enough power if you feel low in your shots.
Sometimes, you get unconfident by making a shot from the baseline area for sure of ball targeted area. If you ask me, I’d confirm representing this Joola paddle.
Pros
- Offers brilliant power
- The grip is a very special and comfortable of this paddle
- Extra core protection guard for durability.
Cons
- You may feel somehow lack in your control.
4. Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Paddle (Best Pickleball Paddle For Power)
Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Paddle is a brilliant choice for players who want more power in hand. Moreover, it’s effortless to control even if you want an increase in your power.
However, for some players, the grip may seem uncontrollable but you can consider my luck for perfectly fitting in my palm.
1. Extra light Paddle
Most of the players, praise Paddletek Bantam TS5 paddle for its perfect weight. The weight is a very perfect match with my hands even if the handle is somehow shorter as compared to my other Selkirk paddle.
It feels really amazing you can say an all-rounder paddle. While featuring enough power without destroying your control.
2. Good Spin And Control
Because of its lightweight and generous sweet spot, I really love it for giving free space. I really feel comfortable and calm with its reaching level.
And giving great opportunity to ball spin with very less effort. It provides a ridiculous gap to me for dinking near to the net.
3. Enough Power
While easy to handle, you’re also blessed with more enough power. To have a hard attack on your opponent, Paddletek will not disappoint you with power.
In the inception, I thought I should change to mid-weight but later I noticed its power quality. I’m really joyful to have an overhead smash on my competitor without putting stress on myself.
Pros
- Very powerful paddle without putting pressure on the hand.
- The weight is extra light.
Cons
- The handle is a little short for tennis elbow players.
5. GAMMA Sports 2.0 Pickleball Paddles (Best Elongated Pickleball Paddle)
Gamma 2.0 is a uniquely constructed paddle, especially for beginner-level picklers. As it’s very balanced between its material and weight.
Plus, you’ll have a very open sweet spot with its elongated shape design. Here’s the list of Top 5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles.
1. Good Control
You’ll rarely find a great control paddle when it comes to the stingy pocket. However, Gamma is very varied from other market paddles.
I love its reach even if the paddle is somehow thin compared to others. But the extra length backs up its control to brilliant results.
2. Sufficient Power
With its polymer core and wide body shape, you’ll be surprised by its power. Fantastic paddle for a beginner player who wants a super shot on the opponents.
While it has a wide body and elongated shape, gives you a good opportunity for a big sweet spot.
3. Perfect Weight
Do you also have a problem with your paddle weight? I mean your paddle seems heavy or hard to handle for you due to its weight.
Then Gamma is coming for you with this paddle while not breaking the bank. The paddle is very light and easy to hold for a longer time.
Its material is very well balanced which doesn’t affect its weight at all even if the paddle is lengthy.
4. Best Short Grip
Even the handle is somehow small for some players especially tennis or big hands players. But still, the grip has an amazing feel and so easy for me to control the ball.
Moreover, it’s one of my best pickleball paddles for tennis players. Your hold will be very smooth and easy to handle because of the rubber band around the honeycomb handle.
Pros
- Amazing handle for two hands players.
- A wide body surface offers a great sweet spot.
- One of the best choices for new-level players.
Cons
- No edge guard can make trouble for your sweet spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some relevant queries related to this topic:
Q1. Do expensive pickleball paddles make a difference?
Of course, it does. You’ll find most of the paddles while lacking at least in any point. Such as paddles are heavy, and if it’s good in weight, you’ll have to mess up the power.
However, expensive paddles are put all together while using very high-quality material. Which makes them very pricey. Such as Joola and the new Selkirk edition Amped.
Q2. What is the best quality pickleball paddle?
In my opinion, the best pickleball paddle is the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS paddle but it’s very expensive.
Apart from that, the best quality paddle is very dependent on its qualities and features. Moreover, whatever, choose a player makes is the best pickleball paddle for him.
Q3. Is graphite or wood better for pickleball paddles?
Graphite paddles are the best pickleball paddle materials. And most of the popular paddles in pickleball are made of graphite. While wood made paddles are old school materails.
I mean it’s inception days paddle, now with new technology constructed paddle are very unique and durable as well.
Q4. How do you know if a pickleball paddle is good?
There are several factors to consider when determining if a pickleball paddle is good, such as its weight, grip, and construction materials.
It’s also important to consider your personal playing style and preferences. Reading reviews from other players and trying out different paddles can also help you determine which one is right for you.
Q5. Are there fake pickleball paddles?
Unfortunately, there are some fake pickleball paddles on the market. These paddles are typically cheaper and lower quality than authentic ones, and may not meet regulation standards.
To avoid buying a fake paddle, it’s important to purchase from a reputable retailer and check for signs of authenticity, such as the manufacturer’s logo and proper labeling. Here is a detailed article about Do Pickleball Paddles Make A Difference?
Conclusion
I know it’s a very tough task to choose a paddle when you’re on a tight budget. But with little effort, selecting the right paddle can cause you a really turnable point for you as a player.
Especially when you’re playing pickleball on a competitive level where you need to be perfect from all sides. One thing missing can completely destroy your overall game performance.
Hence, while choosing a paddle for yourself, try to confirm a few things in the paddle. Such as a great level of control and a well-balanced lightweight. Moreover, a paddle core and surface is a very important part for the player, especially for having an effective spin with the ball.
Power is exceptional if you’re good at it. But still, you’ll need sufficient power for a perfect third drop shot from baseline and also smash overhead if needed.