Introduction
Pickleball has become one of the fastest growing sports in the United States and around the globe - and it's not hard to see why. With its friendly pace, low barrier to entry, and a mix of strategy and athleticism, this sport appeals to all ages and skill levels. If you're just starting out, having the right paddle can be the key to unlocking your potential on the court. In this guide, we'll review the top 10 best pickleball paddles for beginners in 2025. We've looked at factors such as control, power, price, comfort, and overall playability so that you can make an informed decision and start your pickleball journey with confidence.
In this article, you'll discover paddles that offer excellent forgiveness for mishits, responsive surfaces for improved spin, and durable construction that won't break the bank. Whether you're looking for a paddle that enhances your control game or one that gives you a bit more pop and power, there's an option here for you.
Why the Right Paddle Matters
For beginners, the paddle isn't just a piece of equipment—it's an extension of your game. A well-chosen paddle can help you:
- Improve shot accuracy: A large sweet spot and balanced weight reduce mishits.
- Develop control: Softer surfaces and forgiving designs allow you to learn and adjust your technique.
- Gain confidence: Playing with a paddle that feels premium helps you take your game seriously from the start.
- Keep your budget intact: Affordable options with high performance mean you won't need to upgrade too quickly.
Our selection criteria include paddle material, core design, weight, grip size, and price. We've also ensured that each recommendation meets USA Pickleball standards and is ideal for players new to the sport.
Our Top 10 Pickleball Paddles for Beginners
Below is our list of the best beginner-friendly paddles for 2025. Each paddle offers a unique blend of control, power, and affordability. Click the links below to check them out on Amazon, where you can compare prices and read customer reviews.
1. 11SIX24 Pegasus Jelly Bean
Overview:
The 11SIX24 Pegasus Jelly Bean tops our list as an all-around performer that offers exceptional control, forgiveness, and spin—all for a price under $100. Built with a raw Toray T700 carbon fiber face layered with fiberglass, it provides a premium feel that belies its affordable price. Its widebody design enlarges the sweet spot, making it easier for beginners to consistently hit accurate shots.
Key Features:
- Material: CFC surface (Toray T700 raw carbon fiber with fiberglass reinforcement)
- Core: Honeycomb polymer core with a thickness of 16 mm
- Weight: Approximately 8-8.3 oz
- Dimensions: Standard elongated paddle with a long 5.75″ handle for enhanced two-handed backhands
Performance:
The Pegasus Jelly Bean is ideal for those focusing on their control game. It delivers a soft touch for dinks and drops while still offering enough pop for drives and overheads. Its forgiving nature helps minimize errors, making it perfect for beginners transitioning to intermediate play.
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2. Friday Original Paddle
Overview:
The Friday Original is designed with beginners in mind, offering a robust thermoformed carbon fiber construction that gives you the power and spin of higher-end paddles without the premium cost. With its classic elongated shape and reliable performance, this paddle is perfect for players who want to develop a strong foundational game.
Key Features:
- Material: Thermoformed carbon fiber face
- Core: Polypropylene honeycomb core (16 mm thickness)
- Weight: Roughly 8.3 oz
- Dimensions: Elongated shape (16.5″ length x 7.5″ width) with a 5.5″ handle
Performance:
While the Friday Original leans slightly toward a stiffer feel, it's great for generating power off the paddle. Beginners will appreciate its responsive design, which offers ample pop on drives and maintains control during delicate dinks. Its 2-for-$98 deal makes it an incredible value, especially for those playing doubles.
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3. Engage Encore Pro V2.0
Overview:
For beginners looking to add extra power to their game, the Engage Encore Pro V2.0 is a standout choice. With a lightweight fiberglass face, this paddle is engineered to provide aggressive pop and fast hand speed—ideal for players who prefer a more offensive style.
Key Features:
- Material: Fiberglass face for excellent pop
- Core: High-quality polymer core available in thinner (12.7 mm) and thicker (15.2 mm) versions
- Weight: Approximately 7.8-8.2 oz
- Dimensions: Standard 16.25″ x 7.75″ design with a 5.375″ handle
Performance:
The Engage Encore Pro V2.0 is tailored for players eager to boost their power game. While it sacrifices a bit of spin compared to carbon fiber paddles, its explosive pop makes it great for fast-paced play. Beginners and early intermediates will find that it helps them develop aggressive shot-making skills.
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4. Vatic Pro PRISM Flash
Overview:
If control is your top priority, the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash delivers with precision. This raw carbon fiber paddle is renowned for its outstanding control, making it ideal for beginners who want to master dinks, drops, and soft shots without sacrificing power.
Key Features:
- Material: Raw Toray T700 carbon fiber face
- Core: Durable polymer honeycomb core (available in 14 mm and 16 mm options)
- Weight: 7.7-7.9 oz (14 mm) / 7.9-8.2 oz (16 mm)
- Dimensions: Standard size with a 5.33″ handle
Performance:
The PRISM Flash shines in its ability to maintain consistency across various shot types. Its plush feel and precise control allow beginners to develop better touch and shot placement. Although it feels a bit head-heavy, the trade-off is worth it for the control it offers.
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5. Vatic Pro PRISM V7
Overview:
For players who prefer an elongated paddle that provides extra reach at the net, the Vatic Pro PRISM V7 is a superb choice. While it shares many features with the PRISM Flash, the V7's elongated design gives you improved access to those hard-to-reach shots and a slightly heavier feel that benefits power.
Key Features:
- Material: Raw Toray T700 carbon fiber face
- Core: Polymer honeycomb core (16 mm thickness)
- Weight: 8.1-8.5 oz
- Dimensions: Elongated shape with a 5.33″ handle and 16.5″ overall length
Performance:
The PRISM V7 is perfect for beginners moving into intermediate play. Its extra reach and enhanced stability help improve shot accuracy, while the raw carbon fiber face delivers excellent spin. Although its elongated design means a slightly smaller sweet spot, it compensates with superior control and durability.
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6. Hudef Apex Pro
Overview:
The Hudef Apex Pro offers a widebody design that is particularly forgiving, making it ideal for beginners who want a blend of power and control. With an impressive sweet spot and a sturdy build, it's a paddle that grows with you as your game improves.
Key Features:
- Material: T700 raw carbon fiber face
- Core: Polypropylene honeycomb core
- Weight: Approximately 7.8-8.3 oz
- Dimensions: Widebody shape with a comfortable grip length (around 4.9-5.5″)
Performance:
This paddle is engineered to deliver a soft touch with plenty of pop. The Hudef Apex Pro's widebody design increases forgiveness on off-center hits, making it easier for beginners to achieve consistency. Its balance of power and control makes it a popular choice for players still refining their technique.
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7. Ronbus R-Series
Overview:
The Ronbus R-Series paddles are a great option for beginners who are looking for a reliable paddle with both hybrid and elongated versions. These paddles offer excellent control and spin, and they closely rival the performance of more expensive models while remaining budget-friendly.
Key Features:
- Material: Raw Toray T700 carbon fiber face
- Core: Polypropylene honeycomb core (16 mm thickness)
- Weight: Between 7.9-8.2 oz
- Dimensions: Available in multiple shapes (hybrid, elongated, widebody) with handle lengths ranging from 4.9″ to 5.5″
Performance:
The Ronbus R-Series provides versatility and solid performance on the court. Whether you choose a hybrid version or the elongated variant, you'll benefit from its strong control and responsive touch. This paddle is ideal for beginners who want to experiment with different play styles without a significant financial commitment.
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8. Oneshot Beginner Bundle
Overview:
For those who want a complete package to start playing pickleball, the Oneshot Beginner Bundle is a fantastic option. This bundle typically includes two paddles, a set of pickleballs, and a carrying bag - everything you need to hit the court immediately.
Key Features:
- Material: Composite face with a polypropylene honeycomb core
- Bundle Includes: 2 paddles, 4 pickleballs, and a carry bag
- Weight: Light enough for beginners, around 7.2-7.3 oz per paddle
- Dimensions: Standard paddle size (approximately 15.7″ length x 8.2″ width)
Performance:
The Oneshot Bundle is designed for ease of use and durability. Its composite face provides decent pop and responsiveness, while the bundled extras make it an excellent value. This option is perfect for beginners who are budget conscious and want to try the sport without investing in multiple individual items.
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9. Head Radical Elite
Overview:
For beginners coming from a tennis background, the Head Radical Elite offers familiarity with its racket-like design. This paddle combines the classic look with modern technology, making it a great transitional option for players who value control and a comfortable grip.
Key Features:
- Material: Fiberglass face with an OTC polymer honeycomb core
- Weight: Approximately 8.1 oz
- Dimensions: Standard size with a 16″ length and a 5″ grip
- Design: Classic design that appeals especially to ex-tennis players
Performance:
The Head Radical Elite provides a stable, controlled feel that helps new players learn proper technique. Its design is forgiving enough for beginners yet precise enough for those looking to progress quickly. The familiar tennis-like feel can help ease the transition to pickleball for former tennis players.
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10. Diadem Hero
Overview:
Rounding out our list is the Diadem Hero, an excellent option for beginners on a tight budget. Priced under $50, this paddle still delivers competitive performance, making it ideal for those who are just dipping their toes into pickleball without a huge upfront investment.
Key Features:
- Material: Composite HMT fiberglass face with a polypropylene honeycomb core
- Weight: Around 7.6 oz
- Dimensions: Wide body design for a larger sweet spot (approximately 15.6″ x 7.8″)
- Affordability: Extremely budget-friendly without sacrificing quality
Performance:
Despite its low price, the Diadem Hero offers a decent combination of control and power for beginners. It's forgiving on off-center hits and provides enough pop to build confidence on the court. While it may not have all the advanced features of higher-end paddles, it's a great entry-level option that won't break your budget.
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How to Choose the Right Paddle for You
When selecting your first pickleball paddle, consider these key factors:
- Weight: Beginners usually benefit from a mid-weight paddle (around 7-8 oz) which balances power with maneuverability.
- Grip Size: A comfortable grip prevents injury and fatigue. Most paddles offer a standard grip size around 4.25 inches—if needed, add an overgrip.
- Core Material: Polypropylene honeycomb cores provide a good blend of power and control, essential for beginners.
- Face Material: Carbon fiber or composite faces enhance durability and playability. Carbon fiber, in particular, tends to deliver better spin.
- Paddle Shape: Widebody paddles offer a larger sweet spot, which is helpful for those still refining their technique.
Taking a quiz or reading multiple reviews can also help you pinpoint your specific needs based on your playing style and physical attributes. With the right paddle, you can dramatically improve your learning curve and enjoy the game more.
Tips for New Pickleball Players
- Practice Consistently: The more you play, the quicker you'll learn how your paddle responds. Start with controlled drills focusing on dinks and drop shots to develop a good touch.
- Experiment with Different Paddles: If you're not sure what works best for you, try out a few paddles. Many beginners find that a paddle with a larger sweet spot gives them more confidence on off-center shots.
- Invest in Quality Over Quantity: It's better to invest in one quality paddle than several cheap ones that don't perform well. The options listed above are all budget-friendly yet deliver performance that rivals higher-end models.
- Focus on Technique: A well-chosen paddle can improve your game, but mastering your stroke and footwork is essential. Consider taking a few lessons or watching tutorials online.
- Protect Your Equipment: Always store your paddle in a case and clean it after play. Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your paddle and keeps it performing at its best.
Final Thoughts
Starting your pickleball journey is an exciting step, and the right paddle can make all the difference. The paddles on our list have been selected for their balance of performance, durability, and affordability—key factors that new players should prioritize. Whether you choose the forgiving 11SIX24 Pegasus Jelly Bean for its remarkable control or the budget-friendly Diadem Hero to test the waters, each option is designed to help you learn and improve.
Remember, the best paddle for you is one that fits your style, comfort, and budget. As you progress in your game, you may find yourself gravitating toward paddles that offer more advanced features, but for now, these 10 options are more than enough to get you started.
By investing in one of these beginner-friendly paddles, you're setting yourself up for success on the court. Enjoy the game, experiment with your shots, and most importantly, have fun as you discover the exciting world of pickleball.
Summary of Our Top Picks
- 11SIX24 Pegasus Jelly Bean: Outstanding control and forgiveness for beginners.
- Friday Original Paddle: A powerful thermoformed option that delivers great pop and value.
- Engage Encore Pro V2.0: Perfect for players looking to add aggressive power and speed.
- Vatic Pro PRISM Flash: The ideal choice for precision and control in your early pickleball days.
- Vatic Pro PRISM V7: An elongated design offering extra reach and excellent spin.
- Hudef Apex Pro: A widebody paddle that provides forgiveness and a balanced mix of power and control.
- Ronbus R-Series: Versatile and budget-friendly, available in multiple shapes to suit various play styles.
- Oneshot Beginner Bundle: A complete starter kit that includes everything you need to hit the court.
- Head Radical Elite: A transitional option perfect for ex-tennis players looking for familiar comfort.
- Diadem Hero: The most affordable option that still delivers reliable performance.
Each of these paddles brings something unique to the court, and by choosing the one that best fits your needs, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident and competitive pickleball player.