If you’re looking for the best pickleball paddles, you’re in the right place. We’ve tested the top pickleball paddles for control, power, comfort, and spin across all price ranges to help you find the perfect fit in 2025. The paddle we currently recommend to most players is the Joola Vision. It offers the best all-around performance for the price of any paddle we’ve tested – but there are also other solid options even under $100 worth checking out.
Best pickleball paddles 2025
JOOLA Vision
BEST OVERALL

$139.95
- CARBON FIBER SURFACE
- HONEYCOMB POLYMER CORE
- WIDE SWEET SPOT
- CONTROL-FRIENDLY DESIGN
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE PADDLE
Onix Graphite Z5
BEST BUDDGET PADDLE

$69.98
- GRAPHITE FACE FOR CONTROL
- NOMEX HONEYCOMB CORE
- WIDE BODY SHAPE
- COMFORT GRIP HANDLE
- VERSATILE 7.5 OZ WEIGHT
JOOLA Perseus Pro IV
FOR PRO PLAYERS

$279.95
- EXPLOSIVE POWER
- TECHFLEX POWER TECHNOLOGY
- CARBON FRICTION SURFACE
- HYPERFOAM EDGE WALL
- OPTIMIZED SWEET SPOT
Friday Original
BEST FOR BEGINNERS
$71.99
- BUDGET-FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE
- GENERATES SPIN AND POWER
- THERMOFORMED HONEYCOMB CORE
- COMFORTABLE GRIP
- LARGER SWEET SPOT
JOOLA Hyperion CFS
BEST FOR POWER
$119.96
- CARBON FIBER SURFACE
- POWERFUL FOAM CORE
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN (7.9 OZ)
- EXCELLENT CONTROL AND POWER
- EXTRA-LARGE SWEET SPOT
Vatic Pro PRISM Flash
BEST FOR CONTROL
$99.99
- CARBON FIBER FACE
- POLYMER CORE
- LARGE SWEET SPOT
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND MANEUVERABLE
- STRATEGIC AND ACCURATE SHOTS
In diesem Artikel
The Best Pickleball Paddles in our Test | Our Top Picks 2025
The best pickleball paddle can make all the difference – whether you’re just starting out or already playing regularly. Depending on your skill level and playing style, different features are key: beginners often benefit from forgiving paddles with good handling, while intermediate players focus on power, spin, and precise feedback. Aspects like paddle weight, balance, and material choice also play an important role in the decision-making process.
In our pickleball paddles review, we’ve thoroughly tested six good pickleball paddles. We focused not only on control, power transfer, and playing comfort but also on the overall feel during actual play – from quick volleys to finely placed dinks. The paddles we tested are suitable for both ambitious recreational players and experienced tournament competitors who value high-quality craftsmanship and individual playing behavior. Some models are also available in different variations, allowing players to better tailor their setup to their personal style.
Current Pricing: $139.95
One of the best pickleball paddles offering exceptional control and spin, making it the ideal choice for players who want a balanced, high-performance paddle at an affordable price.
- CARBON FIBER SURFACE FOR SPIN
- RESPONSE HONEYCOMB POLYMER CORE
- WIDE SWEET SPOT FOR CONSISTENCY
- CONTROL-FRIENDLY DESIGN
- AFFORDABLE HIGH-PERFORMANCE PADDLE
- LESS POWERFUL THAN OTHER PADDLES IN ITS PRICE RANGE
- MAY NOT PROVIDE ENOUGH FEEDBACK FOR ADVANCED PLAYERS
- DURABILITY COULD BE AN ISSUE WITH EXTENSIVE USE
Shape: Elongated
Weight: 7.8 Oz
Face Material: Carbon Grip Surface (Carbon Flex3)
Core: Response Honeycomb Polymer
Balance: Head-Heavy
Surface: Textured for Enhanced Spin
Grip Length: 5.5″
Grip Circumference: 4.25″
Core Thickness: 16 Mm
Paddle Length: 16.4″
Paddle Width: 7.3″
JOOLA Vision Pickleball Paddle Review
The JOOLA Vision CGS is one of the best pickleball paddles available, offering premium performance at an affordable price of $139.95. With features typically found in top-tier models, it delivers excellent spin, control, and power, making it a strong contender in the market.
Designed by JOOLA, a trusted brand in pickleball, the Vision CGS uses a 14 or 16 Mm Response Honeycomb Polymer Core, which provides great control and a large sweet spot. The Carbon Grip Surface (CGS) boosts ball spin, allowing players to execute both aggressive shots and controlled touch plays with ease. This paddle’s Aero-Curve technology reduces drag and increases swing speed, perfect for players looking to improve their game.
At around 7.8 ounces, the Vision CGS offers the ideal balance between power and control, making it a good pickleball paddle choice for both beginners and intermediate players. The Sure-Grip handle ensures comfort and stability during play, allowing for a solid grip and reducing hand fatigue.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a forgiving paddle or an intermediate player seeking consistent performance, the JOOLA Vision CGS is a top pickleball paddle that stands out for its quality, versatility, and value.
Current Pricing: $69,98
The Z5 is known for its forgiving wide body shape, making it a popular pickleball paddle for beginners and intermediate players seeking consistent performance.
- GRAPHITE FACE FOR CONTROL
- NOMEX HONEYCOMB CORE
- WIDE BODY SHAPE
- COMFORT GRIP HANDLE
- VERSATILE 7.5 OZ WEIGHT
- SMALLER SWEET SPOT
- LESS SPIN THAN HIGH-END MODELS
- NOT AS POWERFUL AS SOME COMPETITORS
- NOT IDEAL FOR ADVANCED PLAYERS LOOKING FOR MAXIMUM SPIN
Shape: Wide Body
Weight: 7.5 – 8.2 Oz
Face Material: Graphite
Core: Nomex Honeycomb
Balance: Even
Surface: Textured for Enhanced Spin
Grip Length: 5″
Grip Circumference: 4.25″
Core Thickness: 12mm
Paddle Length: 15.5″
Paddle Width: 8.125″
Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle Review
The Onix Graphite Z5 continues to be a top contender in the under $100 range since its release. Known for its combination of high-quality features and affordability, it’s a fantastic choice for players who want performance without the premium price tag.
The Z5 features a graphite face paired with a Nomex honeycomb core, providing excellent control and a solid amount of power. Its wide body shape increases the sweet spot, making it a good pickleball paddle, especially for beginners and intermediate players. This ensures more consistent shots and fewer mishits, which is key for those still refining their game.
We also appreciate the Comfort Grip handle, which reduces hand fatigue and provides a secure, stable hold. The Z5’s balanced weight of around 7.5 ounces makes it versatile, offering the right amount of power for aggressive plays while maintaining control for finesse shots.
For players looking for a reliable, budget-friendly paddle, the Onix Graphite Z5 delivers fantastic performance at a price point that’s hard to beat. It’s ideal for both newcomers and those advancing in their pickleball journey.
Current Pricing: $279.95
Stands out for its explosive power and versatility, allowing players to control fast shots while maintaining high precision.
- EXPLOSIVE POWER
- TECHFLEX POWER TECHNOLOGY
- CARBON FRICTION SURFACE
- HYPERFOAM EDGE WALL
- OPTIMIZED SWEET SPOT
- MAY BE TOO POWERFUL FOR BEGINNERS
- LESS FORGIVING ON OFF-CENTER HITS
- REQUIRES TECHNICAL SKILL FOR FULL POTENTIAL
- LIMITED CONTROL FOR TOUCH SHOTS
Shape: Standard
Weight: 7.9 – 8.3 Oz
Face Material: Textured Carbon Fiber
Core: Honeycomb Propulsion
Balance: Head-Heavy
Surface: Textured for Enhanced Spin
Grip Length: 5.5″
Grip Circumference: 4.25″
Core Thickness: 14 Mm
Paddle Length: 16.5″
Paddle Width: 7.5″
JOOLA Perseus Pro IV Pickleball Paddle Review
The JOOLA Perseus Pro IV is a top-tier paddle designed for players looking to take their game to the next level. With its combination of power, precision, and innovative features, it stands out as one of the most highly anticipated and best pickleball paddles of 2025.
The Perseus Pro IV features a TechFlex Power (TFP) technology that optimizes weight distribution, providing excellent flexibility and a larger sweet spot. This allows for explosive power on fast shots while maintaining control, making it ideal for aggressive players. The Propulsion Core, with dual-layer foam, stores and releases energy efficiently, delivering superior power without sacrificing control.
Its carbon friction surface grips the ball exceptionally well, generating significant spin for both serves and groundstrokes. The paddle’s Hyperfoam Edge Wall further enhances its stability and sweet spot, providing extra forgiveness on off-center hits.
Weighing around 7.9 ounces for the 14mm version, the Perseus Pro IV is perfectly balanced, offering power when needed and control for finesse shots. It’s a great fit for intermediate and advanced players, particularly those with a tennis background or anyone who enjoys playing aggressively.
For players ready to invest in a high-performance paddle, the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV delivers exceptional value with its mix of power, spin, and precision, making it a standout choice for competitive play.
Current Pricing: $71.99
This paddle offers great performance for beginners with its ability to generate spin and power at a budget-friendly price.
- BUDGET-FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE
- GENERATES SPIN AND POWER
- THERMOFORMED HONEYCOMB CORE
- COMFORTABLE GRIP
- LARGER SWEET SPOT FOR CONSISTENCY
- LESS CONTROL AND PRECISION
- DURABILITY CAN BE AN ISSUE OVER TIME
- LACKS SOME ADVANCED SPIN CAPABILITY
Shape: Standard
Weight: 8.0 – 8.3 Oz
Face Material: Triple-Layer T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
Core: Polypropylene Honeycomb
Balance: Balanced
Surface: Textured for Enhanced Spin
Grip Length: 5.5″
Grip Circumference: 4.25″
Core Thickness: 16 Mm
Friday Original Pickleball Paddle Review
The Friday Original belongs hands down the best pickleball paddles for beginners in our ranking, offering incredible value at just $71.99. While it may not compete with high-end models in terms of power or spin, it delivers solid performance for players who are just getting started.
Compared to other entry-level paddles, the Friday Original stands out for its ability to generate spin and power, a key advantage for beginners looking to improve their game. It’s far superior to cheap off-brand paddles found in the same price range, offering more control and consistency. While the sweet spot is a bit smaller and it may be less forgiving than pricier options, its thermoformed honeycomb core makes it a popular pickleball paddle performer for players new to the sport.
What truly sets the Friday Original apart is its ability to help beginners develop the fundamental skills needed to compete, such as generating spin and hitting the ball with enough power to win points. While it might not have the same level of control as pricier models, it provides more than enough to start winning games and having fun on the court.
For players on a budget or those just starting out, the Friday Original is the perfect paddle. It provides all the necessary features for beginners without breaking the bank, offering performance and reliability at an affordable price.
Current Pricing: $119.96
The Hyperion CFS is the best pickleball paddle for power players, combining explosive energy with superior spin to dominate fast-paced matches.
- CARBON FIBER SURFACE FOR SPIN
- POWERFUL FOAM CORE
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN (7.9 OZ)
- EXCELLENT CONTROL AND POWER BALANCE
- EXTRA-LARGE SWEET SPOT
- MAY BE TOO AGGRESSIVE FOR BEGINNERS
- LESS CONTROL IN COMPARISON TO CONTROL-FOCUSED PADDLES
- CAN BE CHALLENGING TO HANDLE WITHOUT PROPER TECHNIQUE
Shape: Elongated
Weight: Approx. 7.9 – 8.1 Oz
Face Material: Carbon Fiber Surface (CFS)
Core: Hyperfoam Polymer Core
Balance: Slightly Head-Heavy
Surface: Textured Carbon Fiber Surface
Grip Length: 5.5″ (Approx. 14 Cm)
Grip Circumference: 4.25″ (Approx. 10.8 Cm)
Core Thickness: 14 Mm
JOOLA Hyperion Pickleball Paddle Review
The JOOLA Hyperion CFS takes the 5th spot in our ranking and is the best pickleball paddle for power players. Priced at $119.96, it delivers impressive performance, perfect for those who want to generate explosive shots while still maintaining control.
The Carbon Fiber Surface (CFS) provides exceptional spin, allowing players to put serious spin on their serves and groundstrokes. With its 14mm core, the Hyperion CFS balances power and control, making it ideal for players who rely on aggressive, fast-paced play. The paddle’s high-density foam core helps to absorb impact while maintaining a responsive feel, providing just the right amount of energy transfer.
Weighing around 7.9 oz, it strikes a perfect balance between quick handling and enough pop to dominate the court. The wide body and extended handle offer a larger sweet spot and improved comfort, especially for players who prefer a power-driven game.
For power players looking for good pickleball paddles that deliver both explosive shots and spin, the JOOLA Hyperion CFS is a solid choice. It’s designed for competitive players who want to bring the heat, with a responsive feel and power potential that enhances your game.
Current Pricing: $99.99
Thrives in precision and control, allowing players to place the ball exactly where they want with exceptional accuracy.
- CARBON FIBER FACE FOR PRECISION
- POLYMER CORE FOR CONTROL
- LARGE SWEET SPOT
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND MANEUVERABLE
- STRATEGIC AND ACCURATE SHOTS
- LESS POWERFUL THAN OTHER PADDLES
- LESS FORGIVING ON OFF-CENTER HITS
- LESS SPIN THAN HIGH-END MODELS
Shape: Max (Maximum Sweet Spot)
Weight: Approx. 7.8 – 7.9 Oz
Face Material: Carbon Fiber
Core: Polymer Honeycomb Core
Balance: Balanced
Surface: Smooth Carbon Fiber Surface
Grip Length: 5″ (Approx. 12.7 Cm)
Grip Circumference: 4.25″ (Approx. 10.8 Cm)
Core Thickness: 16 Mm
Vatic Pro PRISM Pro Pickleball Paddle Review
The Vatic Pro PRISM Flash takes the top spot for precision players and is one of the best pickleball paddles for those who prioritize control over raw power. Priced at $99.99, this paddle delivers outstanding performance for players who want to focus on accuracy, finesse and placement.
The PRISM Flash features a carbon fiber face combined with a polymer core, offering incredible ball control and a soft feel on every shot. This makes it ideal for players who prefer a more controlled, strategic game, with the ability to place the ball exactly where they want. The 7.9 oz weight ensures excellent maneuverability, allowing you to react quickly while maintaining control over your shots.
What sets the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash apart is its precision-focused design. The extra-large sweet spot makes it forgiving on off-center hits, while its overall feel gives players a high level of feedback, allowing for more consistent and accurate shot-making. Whether you’re executing delicate dinks or aiming for pinpoint placements, this paddle excels at providing the control you need.
For players looking for a paddle that offers maximum control and precision, the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash is a top choice. It’s perfect for those who want to fine-tune their game and focus on accuracy without sacrificing feel or responsiveness.
General Information About The Best Pickleball Paddles in our Test | Ranking 2025
How we choose the best pickleball paddles
At TennisCheck, we take pride in our thorough, hands-on testing of all the paddles and gear we review. Each paddle featured in our rankings has been tested by a member of our team, ensuring a real-world evaluation. Our testing process involves lots of hours of play across multiple sessions, so we can get a true feel for each paddle’s performance.
When ranking our top pickleball paddles, we assess overall performance (including power, spin, and control), but we also take into account key factors like price, value for money, and the type of player the paddle is best suited for.
In our opinion, the JOOLA Vision stands out as the best paddle. Its combination of control, spin, and power puts it ahead of the competition, making it the ideal choice for a wide range of players looking to elevate their game. With its affordable price point and excellent performance, it’s our top pick for 2025.
How to choose a good pickleball paddle
Choosing the right pickleball paddle is about more than just picking the most popular option or what’s trending. Your playing style, skill level, and preferences should be your guide when selecting the best paddle for your game. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the ideal paddle based on your needs:
Skill Level
Your skill level plays a significant role in selecting the best pickleball paddle. Beginners should focus on paddles that offer control over power. Look for paddles with a larger sweet spot and softer cores that will help minimize mishits and develop your consistency. These paddles are typically more forgiving, allowing you to focus on accuracy.
For intermediate players who have become more comfortable with touch shots, it’s time to look for paddles that balance power and control. These paddles should offer a well-rounded performance across power, control, and spin, helping you refine your skills and take your game to the next level.
Advanced players need paddles that provide maximum power, precision, and spin. These paddles often have smaller sweet spots and harder cores, making them ideal for aggressive shots and quick points. Advanced paddles are designed to offer superior performance, allowing for the most powerful and precise strokes.
Play Style
Every player has a unique play style that can influence which paddle will suit them best. If you prefer a control-first style, focusing on placement and accuracy rather than power, look for a paddle with a larger sweet spot and high control. These paddles are typically softer and more forgiving, making them perfect for defensive play and precise shot placement.
If you’re a power-first player, you’ll want a paddle that offers explosive power and spin. These paddles are generally heavier and can generate fast, aggressive shots, putting your opponent under pressure. For power players, spin is crucial to increase the effectiveness of your shots and make your game more unpredictable.
For all-court players who want a balanced combination of power, control, and spin, hybrid paddles are a great choice. They offer the best of both worlds, allowing for solid offensive and defensive play with a good blend of attributes.
Paddle Shape
The shape of your paddle affects how it plays. Elongated paddles are longer and narrower, providing more reach and power but with less maneuverability. They’re great for players who want more length for dinking and overhead shots. Hybrid paddles combine features from both elongated and standard paddles, offering a good mix of power and speed while maintaining a reasonable level of forgiveness. Standard (Widebody) paddles are shorter and wider, providing a larger sweet spot, which makes them more forgiving. They are perfect for beginners or players looking for consistent play and faster reactions.
Key Features
In addition to weight and balance, the surface of your paddle is an important factor. A textured surface can give you better spin, which is essential for advanced players who rely on spinning their shots to control the ball. If you prefer quick reactions and finesse, a paddle with a smooth surface might be more suitable.
The weight of the paddle also plays a role in performance. Lighter paddles (6.5 – 7.5 oz) are more maneuverable, allowing for faster reactions and better control, while heavier paddles (7.5 – 8.5 oz) provide more power but can be harder to control. Finding a paddle that matches your hand size and grip preference is also essential to avoid hand fatigue and ensure comfort during long games.
By considering your skill level, play style, and the specific features of the paddle, you’ll be able to choose top pickleball paddles for your needs. Testing out different paddles can help you determine what feels most comfortable and works best for your game.
What are the best pickleball paddles made of?
The best materials for pickleball paddles combine high performance with durability. Carbon fiber and graphite are popular choices for the paddle face. Carbon fiber offers excellent control, durability, and spin, while graphite is lightweight, providing great control and precision.
For the core, polymer honeycomb is widely used because it offers a balanced mix of power and control, along with good shock absorption. Nomex cores are stiffer and provide more power, making them suitable for players who want explosive shots. Fiberglass is also used for the paddle face, offering more power and a softer feel.
Choosing the right material depends on your play style—whether you prioritize control, power, or a mix of both.
FAQ
Some of the best pickleball paddles we ever tested include the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS, Onix Z5 Graphite, Selkirk AMPED S2 Hybrid, Engage Encore Pro 6.0, and Paddletek Tempest Wave 2. These paddles are highly regarded for their performance, durability, and versatility across different skill levels.
Some of the top brands that make the best pickleball paddles include JOOLA, Selkirk, Paddletek, Onix, and Engage. These brands are known for producing high-quality paddles that cater to various skill levels and play styles.
The best materials for pickleball paddles are carbon fiber and graphite for the face, as they offer excellent durability, control, and spin. Polymer honeycomb cores are commonly used for a good balance of power and control, while Nomex cores are known for providing more power. Fiberglass is also a popular choice for those seeking more power with a slightly softer feel.
Many professional pickleball players use paddles from top brands like JOOLA, Selkirk, and Engage.
JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS: Used by Ben Johns, one of the top players in the sport.