10 Best Pickleball Paddles Under $100: What You Have Options

Q: Is carbon fiber or graphite better for pickleball?

Carbon fiber, just like Max 5, typically offers a firmer feel and helps with spin and consistent ball control. Graphite is very light and fast in hand, which is great for quick reactions at the net. The better option depends on whether you prefer control (carbon fiber) or speed and quick handling (graphite).

Q: What’s the lifespan of a pickleball paddle?

The lifespan depends on usage. A paddle can last several months to a few years. Competitive players who play daily may notice wear faster, especially in the surface texture. Recreational players who care for their paddle can easily use it long-term. We recommend using the Max 5 pickleball carbon eraser before playing to increase its life.

Q: Which paddle gives the most power?

Paddles with a slightly heavier weight and a more flexible face tend to deliver more power, similar to Max 5. Some budget-friendly paddles use fiberglass or composite surfaces to help the ball “pop” off more strongly.

Q: Should I choose a 14mm or 16mm paddle?

14mm paddles have quicker swing speed and are good for aggressive players. 16mm paddles offer a more cushioned feel and control, which is great for softer net play. Neither is better; it depends on whether you value speed or touch.

Q: Are heavier or lighter paddles better?

Lighter paddles are easier to maneuver and less tiring, especially for beginners. Heavier paddles provide more driving power but may strain the wrist if not used properly. Most beginners do well with a mid-weight paddle for ideal balance.

Looking for the best pickleball paddles under 100? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a beginner stepping onto the court for the first time or an experienced outdoor player searching for the best value pickleball paddle, this guide has you covered.
From what pickleball paddles are, to what features make it great for pickleball players, this blog includes everything you need to know about a pickleball paddle. Let’s walk through the reasons why certain materials and shapes matter, and give you a list of 10 budget-friendly pickleball paddles—all under $100 and with real performance.

What Are Pickleball Paddles?

Pickleball paddles are racket-like paddles, which are sometimes called rackets by old tennis players as well. Unlike tennis rackets, pickleball paddles have solid faces, often made of graphite, fiberglass, or carbon fiber, like the Max 5 paddle itself. From inside, it has a polymer, Nomex, or an aluminium honeycomb core that gives extra strength and bounce.
The right paddle balances power, spin, and control—helping you reduce arm pressure, hit with precision, and take advantage of the sweet spot.

Key Features of Pickleball Paddles That Make Them Great

Shape: Standard, widebody, or elongated. Elongated paddles, such as the Max5 Vintage Carbon Pickleball Paddle, offer a bigger sweet spot.
Material: Advanced options like T700 carbon fiber increase spin and durability. While graphite faces provide lightweight control and fiberglass faces add some good pop.
Core:
– Polymer core: Quiet, cushioned, beginner-friendly.
– Nomex core: Hard, powerful, louder—ideal for aggressive play.
– Aluminum core: Lightweight, great for touch and control.
Weight:
– Light paddles (7.0–7.6 oz): Faster swings, less fatigue.
– Medium paddles (7.7–8.2 oz): Balanced control and power.
– Heavy paddles (8.3+ oz): More power, less wrist maneuverability.
Grip type: Cushioned for comfort, leather for firmness, synthetic for durability.
Thickness: Thicker paddles (16mm) provide more control, while thinner paddles (13mm) provide more power.

10 Best Pickleball Paddles Options Under $100

Here’s a quick comparison table of the top paddles available in the USA:

Paddle	Shape	Face Material	Core Type	Weight	Thickness	Grip Type/Length	Key Benefit
Selkirk Neo	Widebody	Fiberglass	Polymer honeycomb	7.5–8.0 oz	16mm	Cushioned / 4.25”	Great spin, beginner-friendly
Max 5 Carbon Pro	Elongated	T700 Carbon Fiber	Polymer honeycomb (a type of thermoplastic polymer)	7.8 ± 0.2 oz	16mm	Cushioned (perforated grip) / 4.5”	Advanced spin control, thermoformed frame
Paddletek Phoenix G6	Standard	Polycarbonate	Polymer honeycomb	7.4–7.8 oz	15.5mm	Synthetic / 4.25”	Large sweet spot, balanced control
Onix Graphite Z5	Widebody	Graphite face	Nomex honeycomb	7.5–8.2 oz	15mm	Cushioned / 4.25”	Powerful shots, iconic design
Gamma Micron 2.0	Standard	Graphite face	Aluminum honeycomb	7.9 oz	15mm	Cushioned / 4.0”	Lightweight, precise touch
HEAD Radical Elite	Elongated	Fiberglass	Polymer honeycomb	8.1 oz	16mm	Cushioned / 4.25”	More reach, solid control
Engage Encore Pro	Widebody	Fiberglass	Polymer honeycomb	7.8–8.3 oz	15.5mm	Synthetic / 4.25”	Spin control, textured face
ProLite Bolt	Standard	Composite face	Polymer core	7.6 oz	14mm	Cushioned / 4.0”	Lightweight, value-for-money
Franklin X-1000	Widebody	Fiberglass	Polymer honeycomb	7.8–8.1 oz	16mm	Synthetic / 4.25”	Budget-friendly, durable paddle
Niupipo MX-06	Widebody	Graphite	Polymer honeycomb	7.9 oz	15mm	Cushioned / 4.25”	Affordable, good for beginners

Unsure how the pickleball game works? Check it out here on Wikipedia.

Key Performance Features in Pickleball Paddles

Sweet Spot Advantage: An elongated paddle face can provide more sweet spot, allowing you easy serves and tackling of overheads.
Spin Control: Textured surfaces (like T700 carbon fiber) grip the ball longer, helping you add spin.
Reduced Pressure: Lightweight paddles with polymer honeycomb cores absorb shock, reducing strain on your elbow and shoulder.
More Bounce with Less Force: Polymer cores allow softer swings while keeping energy transfer strong.

Pickleball Paddles like Max5 Vintage MX-0.1 Carbon have an elongated face of T700 carbon fiber with Polypropylene honeycomb in their core material, a perforated grip, and more, making them suitable for both professional players and learners aiming to go professional.

Paddle Selection Tips

Selecting a pickleball paddle depends on your usage and whether you want to play outdoors, requiring a full bounce, or play inside just for fun. Players aiming to touch the professional grounds may find it useful to use a USAPA-approved pickleball paddle.

Paddle For Beginners

Start with budget-friendly pickleball paddles, especially as a beginner, that are light to medium weight with a polymer core and cushioned grip. They’re easy to handle, reduce vibration, and let you focus on developing control. A good, cheap pickleball paddle like Niupipo MX-06 or Franklin X-1000 is perfect.

Note: If you are new to pickleball and do not know how to play or what the 2025 rules are, then this professional guide will help you in this regard.

Paddle For Expert Outdoor Players

Look for durable paddles with textured graphite or carbon fiber faces for max spin. Thermoformed frames and elongated shapes give extra reach and power. The best inexpensive pickleball paddle, like the Max 5 Carbon Pro or Onix Z5, balances performance and value.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to overspend to dominate on the court. The best affordable pickleball paddles—from under $50 paddles to the best 100 pickleball paddle options—can bring you pro-level control and comfort. Stay confident, play smart, and trust that your paddle has your back.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. While we strive for accuracy, errors or omissions may occur.

Some images in this blog may be AI-generated or for illustrative purposes only. Device images belong to respective manufacturers and are used here for reference. Actual products may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best pickleball paddle under $100?

There isn’t one single “best” paddle for everyone, but Max 5 pickleball paddle itself a good paddle under $100 should offer a balanced weight, comfortable grip, and a durable face. Many budget paddles now use materials similar to premium models, so you can get solid playability without overspending.

Is carbon fiber or graphite better for pickleball?

Carbon fiber: Just like Max 5, it typically offers a firmer feel and helps with spin and consistent ball control.
Graphite: Very light and fast in hand, which is great for quick reactions at the net.

The better option depends on whether you prefer control (carbon fiber) or speed and quick handling (graphite).

What’s the lifespan of a pickleball paddle?

The answer depend upon the usage. A paddle can last several months to a few years. Competitive players who play daily may notice wear faster, especially in the surface texture. Recreational players who care for their paddle can easily use it long-term. We recommend you to use max 5 pickleball carbon eraser before playing to increase its life.

Which paddle gives the most power?

Paddles with a slightly heavier weight with long paddle and a more flexible face tend to deliver more power like in Max 5 itself. Some budget-friendly paddles use fiberglass or composite surfaces to help the ball “pop” off more strongly.

Should I choose a 14mm or 16mm paddle?

14mm: Quicker swing and more speed in hands, good for aggressive players.
16mm: More cushioned feel and control, great for softer net play.

Neither is “better” — it depends on whether you value speed or touch.

What is the most forgiving pickleball paddle?

A forgiving paddle usually has a larger sweet spot, a medium weight, and a softer core. This helps reduce vibration and makes off-center hits feel more controlled. Many paddles under $100 now offer this type of balanced design just like the max 5 do.

Are heavier or lighter paddles better?

Lighter paddles: Easier to maneuver and less tiring, especially for beginners.
Heavier paddles: Provide more driving power, but can strain the wrist if not used properly.

Most beginners do well with a mid-weight paddle to find the ideal balance.

Do pro players use 14mm or 16mm paddles?

Pros use both. It depends entirely on their personal play style. Some prefer the firm stability of 16mm paddles, while others choose 14mm for faster hand speed and quick volley exchanges.