Best Pickleball Paddles 2024 - PickleballGuide (2024)

1. JOOLA Scorpeus

The ultimate all-court weapon, designed by rising star Collin Johns.

Get Best PriceGet Best Price

Paddletek Bantam TS-5

The top budget paddle of 2024, designed for maximum forgiveness.

Get Best PriceGet Best Price

JOOLA Radius

A forgiving and spin-friendly paddle perfect for new players.

Get Best PriceGet Best Price

JOOLA Perseus

A top-tier control paddle endorsed by the world's best player.

Get Best PriceGet Best Price

CRBN-3X Power Series

A top-performing all-court paddle and my #1 pick for advanced players.

Get Best PriceGet Best Price

Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta

A pro-level control paddle with surprising power and spin.

Get Best PriceGet Best Price

Diadem Edge 18k

A revolutionary paddle with unmatched spin consistency.

Get Best PriceGet Best Price

Gearbox Pro Power Integra

Unrivaled power in a sleek, compact package.

Get Best PriceGet Best Price

1. JOOLA Scorpeus

Best overall

My Review

The JOOLA Scorpeus CFS 16 is my top overall paddle pick for 2024. Designed in collaboration with rising star Collin Johns, this paddle delivers unmatched all-around performance.

With a perfect blend of power, control, spin and forgiveness, the JOOLA Scorpeus allows you to excel in every phase of the game. The 16mm reactive polymer core and "charged" CFS face provide a crisp, lively response with impressive touch and precision.

I'm blown away by how well the JOOLA Scorpeus performs in all situations.It has the control for surgical dinking and resetting, the spin to dictate play with serves and slices, and the power to put away overheads and drive balls past opponents. The wide body shape and ample sweet spot create a forgiving hitting surface that instills confidence.

Who it's best for

The JOOLA Scorpeus CFS 16 is an exceptional choice for players of all skill levels looking for a high-performance paddle. Beginners and intermediates will appreciate the extra margin for error provided by the forgiving design, while advanced players will love the paddle's versatility and precision.

If you're a fan of Collin Johns or just want to use the same gear as one of the brightest young stars in the game, the Scorpeus is a no-brainer. Its all-around excellence makes it a great option for any player seeking to take their game to the next level.

Key features

The JOOLA Scorpeus' 16mm polymer honeycomb core strikes an ideal balance between power and touch. The thermoforming process creates a responsive hitting surface with a large, forgiving sweet spot.

JOOLA's innovative "Charged" CFS face provides tour-level spin thanks to its extra-grippy carbon fiber weave. Hyperfoam-injected edges stabilize the hitting surface for consistency and predictability all the way to the edge.

Look and feel The JOOLA Scorpeus has a sleek, stealthy aesthetic with bold red accents that hint at its explosive potential. The 8" wide body shape and 5.25" handle create a unique profile engineered for maximum performance.

At an average weight of 8oz, the Scorpeus feels sturdy and substantial in the hand without sacrificing maneuverability. The tacky JOOLA grip and minimal edge guard complete the premium, competition-ready feel.

Performance

Simply put, the JOOLA Scorpeus CFS 16 does it all at an extremely high level. I'm amazed by its combination of feel, pop and consistency.

The control is outstanding, allowing for pinpoint accuracy on finesse shots. Dinks and drops feel crisp and responsive, inspiring confidence in my touch game.

Power is abundant yet easily controlled thanks to the lively 16mm core. I can confidently rip drive shots and overheads without fearing the ball will sail long.

Spin generation is a revelation with the Charged CFS face. I'm hitting sharper angles and more deceptive slices than ever before. Serves and third shot drops have extra bite and action.

Perhaps most impressive is the JOOLA Scorpeus' forgiveness. Off-center hits still find their mark more often than not, giving me an extra split-second to recover. The paddle's all-around excellence means I can play loose and aggressive without fear.

Value

At $249.95, the JOOLA Scorpeus CFS 16 is undoubtedly a premium paddle. However, considering its exceptional across-the-board performance and Collin Johns' endorsement, it's a worthwhile investment for serious players.

While budget-conscious players can find solid performing paddles for less, I believe the Scorpeus' unmatched versatility and quality make it a smart long-term buy for players of all levels.

My Verdict: JOOLA Scorpeus

2. Paddletek Bantam TS-5

Best budget

My Review

The Paddletek Bantam TS-5 is my top budget paddle pick for 2024, offering unbeatable forgiveness and consistency for beginners at just under $100.

Endorsed by women's world #1 Anna Leigh Waters, the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 provides a stable, confidence-inspiring platform for new players to build their skills. The extra-wide body shape and thick 12.7mm polymer core create an expansive sweet spot that minimizes mishits.

While the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 may lack the raw power and spin of more expensive paddles, its outstanding forgiveness and control make it the perfect tool for beginners to develop reliable basics.

Who it's best for

The Paddletek Bantam TS-5 is an excellent choice for pickleball newbies seeking a quality first paddle that won't break the bank. The forgiving design and lightweight feel are ideal for players just learning the ropes.

Beginners will love the paddle's ability to keep balls in play, even on less-than-perfect contact. The ample control also helps new players start to develop touch and finesse around the net.

More advanced players will likely prefer a paddle with more power and spin, but for players just starting out, the Bantam TS-5's user-friendly performance is tough to beat at this price point.

Key features

The standout feature of the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 is its extra-large sweet spot, created by the wide body shape and thick 12.7mm polymer core. This forgiving hitting surface helps beginners make solid contact more consistently.

While it uses more basic materials than ultra-premium paddles (fiberglass face and polymer core), Paddletek's high-quality construction ensures impressive durability and reliability for the price.

Look and feel

The Paddletek Bantam TS-5 has a clean, attractive design with bold colors that make it stand out from other beginner paddles. The wide body shape looks confidence-inspiring and provides a large hitting surface.

Despite its affordable price tag, the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 feels solid and well-built. The lightweight 7-7.5oz range makes it easy to maneuver at the net, while the 4 ¼" grip is comfortable for extended play sessions.

Performance

Forgiveness and consistency are where the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 truly shines. The large sweet spot keeps balls on target even when contact is less than ideal. Beginners will love the paddle's ability to minimize mishits and keep them in points longer.

Control is also a strong suit, helping new players start to develop touch and placement. Dinks and drops feel surprisingly good for a beginner paddle, allowing for early success in the short game.

Power and spin are adequate for beginners but won't blow anyone away. More advanced players may find the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 lacking in these areas, but it provides more than enough pop for recreational play.

The most impressive aspect of the Bantam TS-5 is how easy it makes the game for new players. The forgiving sweet spot and lightweight feel foster confidence and make rallies more enjoyable.

Value

At $99.99, the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 offers outstanding value for beginner players. For players just starting out who want a quality paddle that will help them improve, the Bantam TS-5 is well worth the investment. Its durable construction and forgiving performance make it a paddle that can serve beginners well for a long time.

My Verdict: Paddletek Bantam TS-5

3. JOOLA Radius CGS 16

Best beginner

My Review

The JOOLA Radius CGS 16 is my top pick for beginners in 2024, thanks to its extra-large sweet spot, spin-friendly textured face, and comfortable rounded shape.

JOOLA brings their renowned table tennis expertise to pickleball with this innovative design. The wide 8.2" face and responsive polymer core create an impressively forgiving hitting surface that builds confidence in new players.

The textured Carbon Grip Surface (CGS) technology adds reliable spin on serves, returns and rallies, helping beginners learn to incorporate spin from day one. The thick 16mm core and ¼" overlapping edge guard provide a pleasantly solid and stable feel.

Who it's best

for The JOOLA Radius CGS 16 is a fantastic choice for pickleball newbies looking for a fun and forgiving paddle to start their journey. The extra-large sweet spot makes it easier to make solid contact while you're still honing your skills.

At an average of 7.6oz, it's easy to maneuver at the net without feeling too flimsy for beginners. The rounded shape and textured spin surface also make it a great option for ex-table tennis players crossing over to pickleball.

While it offers solid power for a beginner paddle, the JOOLA Radius CGS 16 may leave advanced players wanting more pop. Competitive intermediates and above may prefer a more traditionally shaped performance paddle as well.

Key features

The standout feature is the extra-wide 8.2" face, which provides an expansive sweet spot compared to traditional paddles. This enlarged hitting surface makes clean contact easier for beginners still developing their hand-eye coordination.

The carbon grip surface adds reliable topspin and slice, helping new players experiment with spin right away. The response polymer core provides a lively and consistent feel without excessive harshness or vibration.

Look and feel JOOLA brings a fresh aesthetic to the beginner paddle market with the rounded shape and bold graphics of the JOOLA Radius CGS 16. The wide body design looks confident and purposeful at the net.

The thick 16mm core and ¼" overlapping edge guard create a pleasantly stable, muted feel at impact. The 5" handle with perforated Sure-Grip wraps and ribbed guide helps new players find and maintain an optimal grip.

Performance

Forgiveness is where the JOOLA Radius CGS 16 really shines. Mishits that would sail long with a traditionally shaped paddle stay in play thanks to the extra-wide 8.2" hitting surface. New players will appreciate the margin for error and confidence boost this provides.

Spin generation is another strong suit, as the textured carbon grip surface helps even beginner-level swings impart slices and topspin. This makes learning to serve with spin or take pace off the ball with a slice much more approachable.

Power is adequate for beginners and casual play, but more advanced players may find themselves wishing for more pace, even with the thick 16mm core. Control and touch are quite good thanks to the responsive polymer core and forgiving face shape.

Overall, the JOOLA Radius CGS 16 strikes a great balance of user-friendliness and fun for pickleball newcomers. The muted and stable feel is easy on the arm, while the jumbo sweet spot and spin-friendly face help build a well-rounded skill set from the ground up.

Value

At $179.95, the JOOLA Radius CGS 16 is priced at the higher end for a beginner paddle. However, its high-quality construction, forgiving design and beginner-friendly features make it a worthwhile investment for committed learners.

Those who choose the JOOLA Radius will enjoy a paddle that can grow with them through the early stages of their pickleball development.

My Verdict: JOOLA Radius CGS 16

4. JOOLA Perseus

Best intermediate

My Review

The JOOLA Perseus is my top pick for intermediate players who want to dominate with precision and control. Designed in collaboration with the world's #1 player, Ben Johns, this paddle is a dream for the strategic player.

JOOLA has taken all the best features of their previous top-selling paddles and combined them into one ultimate control weapon. The JOOLA Perseus shines in touch shots and shot placement, while still providing ample power and spin to keep opponents on their toes.

Who it's best for

Intermediate players looking to master third shot drops, dinks and resets will love the JOOLA Perseus. It's a great step-up paddle for players graduating from beginner paddles and wanting more control and finesse.

The JOOLA Perseus is also an excellent choice for advanced players who prefer a control-oriented game. With Ben Johns' endorsement, many rising competitors will flock to this paddle as they climb the ranks.

While intermediates seeking more raw power may prefer paddles like the Bread & Butter Filth, the JOOLA Perseus is a more forgiving option that still provides a solid base for developing an aggressive game.

Key features

The JOOLA Perseus improves on JOOLA's previous top-seller, the Hyperion, with a stronger unibody construction that eliminates the risk of handle failure. They've also reduced the weight by 0.4oz for better maneuverability without sacrificing stability.

The raw carbon surface and hyperfoam edge walls generate impressive spin, while the reactive polymer core provides the perfect blend of touch and pop. I recommend adding lead tape to dial in your preferred weight and balance for peak performance.

Look and feel The JOOLA Perseus oozes style with its sleek design and understated Ben Johns signature graphic. You can't help but feel a boost of confidence knowing you're wielding the same paddle as the world #1.

The reduced weight compared to the Hyperion is immediately noticeable, making the JOOLA Perseus feel quick and agile in hand. The improved comfort grip is a welcome upgrade from the Hyperion's ribbed handle as well.

Performance

Control is undoubtedly the JOOLA Perseus' greatest strength. Resets, dinks and drops felt buttery smooth and precise, inspiring confidence in my touch game. While not as powerful as some other top-end paddles, the JOOLA Perseus provides more than enough pace for intermediate play.

Spin production is impressive thanks to the raw carbon surface. While not quite on par with spin machines like the CRBN-3X, I was still able to impart great action on serves and slice shots.

The main drawback is the relatively small sweet spot compared to other premium paddles. Intermediates may find the JOOLA Perseus slightly less forgiving than paddles like the Pickleball Apes Pro Line Energy S. However, the excellent control makes up for it in my opinion.

Value

There's no question $249.95 is a significant investment. However, for serious intermediate players looking to invest in a top-of-the-line control paddle, the JOOLA Perseus is absolutely worth the price tag in my opinion. The high-quality materials and construction will provide years of reliable performance.

My Verdict: JOOLA Perseus

5. CRBN-3X Power Series

Best advanced

My Review

The CRBN-3X Power Series is my go-to paddle for advanced play in 2024. It offers the complete package with impressive power, loads of spin, and great control.

I debated between this and the DBD for my overall top pick. I play with both constantly and they're always in my bag. Like the DBD, the CRBN-3X Power Series has it all - power, spin, control. The DBD just barely edges it out with a slightly softer feel and larger sweet spot. But if you want max stability and less pop, the 3X is a fantastic choice.

Who it's best for

Advanced players rated 4.0+ who are ready to play aggressively will get the most from this paddle's power and spin. It's also great if you're deciding between elongated and square shapes, as it strikes a nice middle ground. Many intermediates will like it too, if you're looking to level up your game.

Key features

The CRBN-3X Power Series builds on CRBN's reputation for great spin from their Control Series' carbon fiber face. They've added foam in the walls and handle for stability, along with a unibody design. This improves stability and expands the sweet spot compared to the original.

Look and feel

The CRBN-3X Power Series looks and feels high-end. It has a sleek, modern aesthetic with the standard black carbon fiber face. I loved the solid feel right away - hefty for power but light enough for quick hands at the net.

Performance

Spin is where the CRBN-3X Power Series really shines. I can generate tremendous spin on serves and topspin drives that look out but drop right in. Power is huge too, on par with other top picks like the B&B Filth and DBD.

As with most thick core paddles, you do give up a little control for power. But the 3X still has good touch, forgiveness and consistency. It's great for aggressive dinking, though beginners may pop up drops more than they'd like.

Value

The CRBN-3X Power Series is absolutely worth it for advanced players with fast, spin-heavy games. It's pricier than the DBD but offers even better performance for high-level play.

My Verdict: CRBN-3X Power Series

The CRBN-3X excels across the board, with huge power, heavy spin, and enough control to dominate all areas of the court. I play with it regularly and suggest it to most 4.0+ players I meet, as well as ambitious intermediates. While you can find cheaper options like the Filth and DBD, the CRBN-3X is still one of the best paddles you can buy to take your game to the next level.

6. Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta

Best control

My Review

The Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta redefines what's possible with a control paddle. Drops, resets, and dinks are effortless, yet it still generates impressive power and spin when you need it.

This is my go-to control paddle in 2024, perfect for intermediate to advanced players rated 3.5 and up. It offers the precision and touch of a classic control paddle with the added pop of a modern power paddle.

PPA pro Jack Sock has been crushing it with the LUXX on tour, winning 2023 mixed doubles gold with Anna Leigh Waters at the North Carolina Open. If you want pro-level control with some extra oomph, this is your paddle.

Who it's best for

Advanced players will get the most out of the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta's premium control, speed and feel. Ambitious intermediates can also use it to take their touch shots to the next level.

Newer players and early intermediates may find it a bit unwieldy compared to more forgiving entry-level paddles. If you prioritize consistency and shot-making over raw power, the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta is an excellent fit.

Key features

Selkirk's signature Air Dynamic "open-throat" design increases swing speed and aerodynamics. The extra-thick 20mm core provides incredible touch and resets without feeling mushy.

"Florek" carbon fiber (Selkirk's proprietary blend) adds power and spin that you don't usually see in control paddles. My only gripe is that the textured surface is painted on rather than built-in, which may wear down faster.

Look and feel

The Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta has the sleek, modern aesthetic shared by all Selkirk Air paddles. The baby blue face (Jack Sock's color of choice) looks especially sharp.

It feels lightning-quick and perfectly balanced right out of the box. The premium-grade 4 ¼" grip stays comfortable even during marathon 2-hour sessions. If you like a control paddle with some added zip, you'll love how the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta handles.

Performance

As expected, the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta absolutely shines in the control department. The plush 20mm core lets me absorb pace and reset attackers' hard shots with ease. Drops, dinks and other touch shots feel buttery smooth and precise.

Surprisingly, the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta also generates really solid power and spin. The responsive carbon fiber face lets me crank up the pace and paint lines when I get the chance. While not quite as powerful as dedicated power paddles, it has more than enough pop for most players.

Spin capability is excellent too, just a notch below top spin paddles like the Diadem Edge 18k. I can hit heavy topspin drives, vicious snap serves, and spinny third shot drops with great effect.

The icing on the cake is the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta's forgiving nature. The responsive 20mm core and ample sweet spot help smooth out mishits better than most paddles designed for advanced play.

Newer intermediates may find the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta a tad unforgiving compared to entry-level paddles, but most experienced players will adapt quickly and thrive with its exceptional control.

Value

There's no denying the LUXX's $250 price tag puts it firmly in the premium paddle category. However, if you're a committed player looking for top-of-the-line control and feel, it's absolutely worth the investment in my opinion.

My Verdict: Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta

The Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta is a marvel of paddle engineering, providing unrivaled control without sacrificing power or spin. If you're a 3.5+ player who loves to dictate points with precise shot-making, the LUXX will quickly become your new best friend on the court. Considering Selkirk's track record of top-tier performance, this paddle is worth every penny for serious control fanatics.

7. Diadem Edge 18k

Best spin

My Review

The Diadem Edge 18k is a game-changer, delivering the biggest and most reliable spin of any paddle I've ever tested.

Diadem's revolutionary "triaxial weave 18k carbon fiber" technology produces more spin on average than top paddles like the Six Zero DBD, B&B Filth, and CRBN-3X - and with unrivaled consistency too.

The unique 3D face texture grips the ball like nothing else, letting you swing out confidently on spin serves, drives, and even drops and dinks. You'll be amazed at the RPMs you can generate.

Who it's best for

Intermediate and advanced players who love to play a spin-heavy game will get the most out of the Diadem Edge 18k. It's a must-try for ex-tennis players like myself.

Keep in mind, the 16mm non-thermoformed core means it's not an outright power paddle. The Diadem Edge 18k is best suited for all-court play with an emphasis on control over brute force.

Key features

The Diadem Edge 18k carbon fiber face is the star of the show here. Diadem's innovative 3D weave provides unmatched spin consistency at any contact angle.

It really works - I'm hitting the heaviest, most reliable spin of my pickleball career with this paddle. The rugged edge guard is a nice bonus for durability too.

Look and feel The distinctive grid pattern on the face isn't just for show - it's the secret behind the Diadem Edge 18k's spin prowess. The coarse woven texture looks as cool as it feels to hit with.

The red edge guard makes the 18k stand out from the sea of similar-looking paddles on the market. It has a great 8oz weight for intermediate and advanced players, and swings with a nice balance of speed and stability.

Performance

I'm blown away by the Diadem Edge 18k's spin numbers. Right away, I was hitting the best spin of my life, even better than with popular T700 carbon paddles.

The 3D weave lets me brush up on the ball and generate effortless topspin, almost like I'm back on the tennis court. I'm pulling off spin moves I didn't think were possible in pickleball - it's like having cheat codes. 11/10 spin, if that were possible.

Control and touch are excellent as well, not far behind the vaunted Selkirk LUXX Control. The generous sweet spot keeps mis-hits under control and lets you swing confidently.

The Diadem Edge 18k isn't a power-focused paddle, so look elsewhere if that's your top priority (the Gearbox Pro Power and B&B Filth are great options there). But if you want to dominate with spin and precision, the Diadem Edge 18k is tough to beat.

Value

There's no this paddle is a significant investment. However, if you're serious about spin and want the very best tool for the job, I believe the Diadem Edge 18k is 100% worth the premium. Nothing else I've tried comes close to its consistency and pure spin numbers.

My Verdict: Diadem Edge 18k

8. Gearbox Pro Power Integra

Best power

My Review

For unbridled power, nothing tops the Gearbox Pro Power Integra. Balls absolutely rocket off the face, allowing me to dominate with explosive drives and put-aways.

The compact 16x7 3/8" shape offers surprising power for its size. I've never experienced this kind of velocity and energy transfer in such a maneuverable paddle. It's truly next-level pop. Of course, that power comes with some tradeoffs, which I'll touch on shortly.

While it didn't claim the top all-court spot like the B&B Filth (which has better control), the Gearbox Pro Power Integra is still my top pick for power in 2024.

Who it's best

for This paddle is tailor-made for power players and hard hitters. The lightning-quick response and pop can overwhelm beginners and even some intermediates. You'll sacrifice some control and forgiveness for the extra power, so it's best suited for skilled players with accurate swings.

Key features

Gearbox's signature carbon fiber SST core and Toray T700 raw carbon face deliver a distinctly solid, powerful feel. Proprietary "Smart Dampen" technology in the core helps reduce vibration, while the TXR surface provides a nice balance of grip and durability.

Look and feel

The Gearbox Pro Power Integra has a sleek, stealthy aesthetic that looks as fast as it plays. The compact 16" length and 7 3/8" width make it extremely maneuverable and quick through the air.

It feels rock-solid and high-end, as you'd expect at this premium price point. I love how it combines a light 8oz weight with head-heavy balance for effortless power. The small 4" grip is great for players with compact grips or who like to "choke up" on the handle.

Performance

Simply put, this is the most powerful paddle I've ever swung. The ball explodes off the face, letting me crush overhead put-aways and hit clean winners from anywhere on the court. Spin capability is also off the charts, helping to keep my power shots from sailing long.

The tradeoff is a small sweet spot that can be unforgiving on off-center hits. You may sacrifice some accuracy on finesse shots like dinks and drops. Players who struggle with mishits may get frustrated.

The compact shape also has fairly low twist-resistance, so be prepared for some paddle turn on off-center impacts, until you adjust.

Value

This is definitely a premium paddle designed for committed players. While it won't suit everyone, hardcore power fanatics will find it well worth the investment. If you love the unique Gearbox feel and want a compact power option, the Gearbox Pro Power Integra delivers.

My Verdict: Gearbox Pro Power Integra

The Gearbox Pro Power Integra is my #1 power pick for 2024. If you love to dictate points with big serves and putaways, this paddle is a dream come true. The small sweet spot has a learning curve, but power players will adapt quickly. For everyone else, I'd suggest demoing before buying to make sure the feel suits your game.