Pickleball has gained tremendous popularity in recent years, attracting players of all ages and skill levels. When it comes to excelling in this sport, having the right equipment is crucial, with the pickleball paddle being the most important piece. It directly impacts a player’s control, power, and accuracy on the court. With a wide range of options available, finding a high-quality paddle under $100 can be a challenge. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best pickleball paddles under $100, combining insights from various expert reviews and considering real feedback from players like you. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect paddle that fits your needs without breaking the bank!
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Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pickleball Paddle
Before delving into our top picks, let’s discuss the key factors you should consider when choosing a pickleball paddle. These factors will help you make an informed decision based on your playing style, skill level, and personal preferences.
1. Paddle Materials
Pickleball paddles are typically made from three main materials: wood, composite, and graphite. Wood paddles are the most affordable but may lack the durability and performance of their composite and graphite counterparts. Composite paddles offer a good balance between power and control, while graphite paddles are known for their lightweight and excellent maneuverability.
2. Weight and Balance
The weight and balance of a pickleball paddle play a significant role in your gameplay. Lighter paddles, usually ranging from 6.5 to 7.3 ounces, provide better maneuverability and control, making them ideal for finesse players. Heavier paddles, ranging from 7.3 to 9 ounces, offer more power for aggressive shots and smashes. The balance of the paddle can be either head-heavy or evenly balanced, affecting the paddle’s feel and swing speed.
3. Grip Size and Material
The grip size and material of the paddle handle are crucial for comfort and control. The standard grip size for pickleball paddles is 4 1/4 inches, but variations are available to accommodate different hand sizes. The grip material should provide sufficient tackiness to prevent slippage during gameplay.
4. Paddle Shape
Pickleball paddles come in different shapes: traditional, elongated, and widebody. Traditional-shaped paddles have a balanced feel and are suitable for all playing styles. Elongated paddles offer an extended reach, making them ideal for players who prefer more power. Widebody paddles have a larger sweet spot, providing forgiveness for off-center hits.
5. Paddle Core
The core of a pickleball paddle can be either polypropylene (polymer) or Nomex. Polymer core paddles offer a softer feel and more control, while Nomex core paddles provide a harder feel and increased power. The core material can significantly impact the overall performance of the paddle.
Top Pickleball Paddles Under $100 – Comparison
Before we dive into the detailed reviews, let’s take a quick look at the top pickleball paddles under $100 and their key features:
| Paddle | Weight | Material | Grip Size | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle | 8.5 oz | Carbon Fiber | 4 1/4″ (Medium) | $99.99 |
| Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddle | 7.8 oz | Graphite | 4 1/4″ (Medium) | $89.99 |
| Engage Encore Composite Paddle | 7.4 oz | Composite | 4 1/4″ (Medium) | $79.99 |
| PROLITE Bolt Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle | 7.8 oz | Carbon Fiber | 4 1/4″ (Medium) | $74.99 |
| Franklin Signature 13mm Middleweight Composite Pickleball Paddle | 7.9 oz | Composite | 4 1/4″ (Medium) | $99.99 |
| Wild Monkeys Prima 3K Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle | 8.5 oz | Carbon Fiber | 4 1/4″ (Medium) | $89.99 |
Now, let’s dive deeper into each paddle’s features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
The XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle stands out as one of the best options under $100. Made with T-700 Raw carbon fiber, it offers a premium feel and performance comparable to higher-priced paddles. The carbon fiber face generates exceptional spin, which improves over time as the fibers start to fray. The 16mm core provides a balanced feel, allowing for smooth dinks, drops, and resets, while still offering enough weight for decent power on groundstrokes and attacks.
Pros:
- Raw carbon face produces amazing spin.
- 16mm core provides maneuverability and stability.
- Slightly heavier swing weight and long handle allow for decent power.
- Very easy to control after the paddle is broken in.
- Forgiving sweet paddle face.
- Durable construction.
- Gets better with age.
Cons:
- No manufacturer warranty.
- Starts off a bit rigid and stiff.
Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddle
The Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddle is known for its exceptional power. Featuring a Nomex core and a graphite face, this paddle delivers explosive hits and smashes. The solid hitting surface provides excellent control, while the graphite face offers additional touch and finesse. With a medium grip size and a weight range of 7.5 to 8.2 ounces, the Z5 is suitable for a wide range of players.
Pros:
- Powerful hits and smashes.
- Solid hitting surface for excellent control.
- Graphite face adds touch and finesse.
- Versatile paddle suitable for various playing styles.
Cons:
- Some players may find it too powerful for finesse shots.
- Grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
Engage Encore Composite Paddle
The Engage Encore Composite Paddle is a lightweight option that doesn’t compromise on playability. With a weight average of 7.4 ounces, it offers excellent maneuverability and control. The paddle’s versatility allows players to hit with finesse, power, and accuracy. Its lightweight nature makes it suitable for players with weaker joints or those who prefer a lighter paddle. The Engage Encore is a well-rounded paddle that can adapt to any type of game.
Pros:
- Lightweight and maneuverable.
- Versatile paddle for finesse, power, and accuracy.
- Suitable for players with weaker joints.
- High-quality construction for durability.
Cons:
- Some players may prefer a heavier paddle for more power.
- Grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
PROLITE Bolt Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
The PROLITE Bolt Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle offers the highest-performing face material, carbon fiber, at an affordable price. With a weight range of 7.4 to 8.0 ounces, it is suitable for a wide range of players. The 10mm core thickness provides excellent power on the court, while the paddle’s noise-approved design ensures it meets community standards. The PROLITE Bolt is an excellent choice for players seeking a lightweight paddle with exceptional performance.
Pros:
- High-performing carbon fiber face.
- Wide weight range suitable for different players.
- Generous core thickness for power.
- Noise-approved for community play.
Cons:
- Some players may find the grip less comfortable and prefer to replace it.
Franklin Signature 13mm Middleweight Composite Pickleball Paddle
The Franklin Signature 13mm Middleweight Composite Pickleball Paddle offers exceptional spin and control. Its composite construction provides a solid hitting surface, allowing players to put topspin on the ball while maintaining accuracy. The grip length is perfect for players transitioning from tennis, providing a familiar feel. With a weight of 7.9 ounces, it strikes a balance between power and maneuverability.
Pros:
- Excellent spin and control.
- Solid hitting surface for topspin shots.
- Grip length suitable for tennis players transitioning to pickleball.
- Suitable for players at all skill levels.
Cons:
- Some players may prefer a lighter paddle for increased maneuverability.
- Grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
Wild Monkeys Prima 3K Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
The Wild Monkeys Prima 3K Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle offers the lowest priced 3K carbon fiber face on the market. With its excellent grip, control, spin, and power, this paddle provides exceptional value for its price. The PROLITE No Sweat Diamond Grip adds tackiness and channels sweat away from your hand, ensuring a secure grip during intense gameplay. With a weight of 8.5 ounces, it offers a balance between power and maneuverability.
Pros:
- Affordable 3K carbon fiber face.
- Excellent grip, control, spin, and power.
- Tacky grip with sweat-absorbing properties.
- Suitable for players at all skill levels.
Cons:
- Some players may prefer a lighter paddle for increased maneuverability.
- Grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
Conclusion
Choosing the best pickleball paddle under $100 doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or performance. Each of the paddles mentioned in this guide offers exceptional features and value for their price. Consider your playing style, skill level, and personal preferences when making your decision. Whether you opt for the XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Paddle, Onix Z5 Paddle, Engage Encore Composite Paddle, PROLITE Bolt Carbon Fiber Paddle, Franklin Signature Composite Paddle, or Wild Monkeys Prima 3K Carbon Fiber Paddle, you can feel confident that you are making a wise investment in your game. So, grab your paddle of choice, head to the court, and enjoy the exhilarating game of pickleball!
