It is pointless to buy overpriced paddles when you can get the best pickleball paddle under $100, which offers great performance.
The pickleball paddle is perhaps a deciding factor that governs the player’s ability, performance, and score on the court. However, considering the crammed sporting goods market, finding this crucial equipment without spending $100+ is laborious. Being a proficient pickleball player, I stand in a position where I can share the best pickleball paddle under 100 to give newcomers a good direction.
In this article, I’ll review the affordable pickleball paddles that offer great build quality, better control, stability, and endurance and will uplift your confidence on the court. Price does matter, but it’s not the only thing you need to see, so I’ll try to distinguish well which pickleball paddle stands out and why.
Best Pickleball Paddle Under $100
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
XSPAK Pickleball Paddle
|
9.8
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
Head Extreme Elite Paddle
|
9.7
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
Element Pickleball Paddle
|
9.5
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
Gamma Pickleball Paddle
|
9.3
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
Franklin Sports Pro Paddle
|
9.5
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
ONIX Z5 Pickleball Paddle
|
9.1
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
Paddletek Bantam Paddle
|
9.3
|
Check on Amazon |
1. XSPAK Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 8.0 Ounces
- Skill Level: Advance
- Material: Carbon Fiber
- Paddle Length: 16.5″
When buying the best paddle under $100, the build quality matters the most as it determines the overall strength, stability, resistance, and reliability. In this sequence, I found carbon fiber paddles like XSPAK excellent for their lightweight profile, high maneuverability, and portability. It would be right to say that holding this paddle is straight and effortless, even for beginners.
Also, the core of the XSPAK paddle is made of industrial-grade polypropylene, which is denser than regular poly material and thus helps you play powerful shots without being worried about stability. This remains unaffected by wind pressure, power of shots, and other external factors and delivers optimum performance.
In addition, it has edge guard technology that protects the paddle from wear and tear and offers a long-lasting experience. After buying this one for years, searching for the next paddle is unnecessary, but how you treat and maintain the paddle matters, too. USAPA approves the XSPAK paddle, so you are all good to appear with this cheap pickleball paddle in your next tournament.
- High Stability
- USAPA Approved
- Long-Lasting
- Forgiveness Can Be Improved
Summary
There is no need to waste hundreds of dollars on a pickleball paddle when you can get a powerful, controllable, and professional-grade option like the XSPAK pickleball paddle at an affordable rate. It features edge guard technology, poly construction, carbon fiber core, and whatnot, and it promises to deliver consistent and exceptional gameplay without depending too much on your skills.
2. Head Extreme Elite Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 7.8 Ounces
- Skill Level: All
- Material: Fiberglass/Honeycomb
- Paddle Length: 16.1″
As its name indicates, the Head Extreme Elite is a premium pickleball paddle on this list made of high-quality fiberglass. The fiber construction cuts down the extra weight, makes the paddle maneuverable and portable, and increases its strength and robustness—thanks to the woven and symmetrical construction.
This best budget pickleball paddle caught my attention for the first time because of its diamond-shaped design, which looks appealing and improves the rate of forgiveness. For your information, forgiveness refer-0s to the technology or equipment that increases precision and reduces mishits and wrong hits in the game. Therefore, the Head Extreme paddle design is great for beginners trying to nourish their pickleball skills.
The core of the Head Extreme Elite paddle possesses honeycomb technology based on a real honeycomb’s hexagonal structure. The core has adjoined components that are symmetrically attached to provide superior strength and rigidity. This Elite paddle remains unaffected by external impact-causing factors and avoids unwanted vibrations and movement.
- Diamond Shape
- Professional-Friendly
- Honeycomb Core
- Not For Rough Use
Summary
The Head Extreme Elite pickleball paddle is a top-notch choice for professional players because of its honeycomb core, fiberglass construction, diamond shape, affordability, and comfort. Its best feature is its superior stability and rigidity.
3. Element Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 7.6 Ounces
- Skill Level: Advance
- Material: Polymer Core
- Paddle Length: 15.8″
The Element pickleball paddle is a great beginner-friendly option under $100. It is made of good quality polymer that cuts down the additional weight and increases the mobility of the best pickleball set under 100. It would be right to say that this offers freedom of mobility to the player and follows hand movements precisely. You’ll notice a big difference in your score after switching to the Element paddle.
The paddle’s core offers incredible absorbing power that dampens unwanted vibrations and movements and provides stable and powerful gameplay. This lightest paddle is undoubtedly the best control pickleball paddle under $100 because of its excellent construction and easy-to-handle profile. It is one of the best pickleball gifts for players.
The Element pickleball paddle is not a good choice for brand-conscious buyers because Paddletek, a new company in the market, has launched it. However, my experience with the brand is so great as the paddle is excellent in performance, quality-wise perfect, and comes with a warranty. You can also contact their customer service in case of any issue, and they will respond in 24 to 48 hours.
- Lightweight And Mobile
- Good Customer Service
- Powerful Gameplay
- Limited Availability
Summary
The Element pickleball paddle is a viable option in today’s market because of its excellent build quality, lightweight profile, increased mobility, excellent customer service, and stability. It is great for power and spin shots.
4. Gamma Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 8.0 Ounces
- Skill Level: Intermediate/Advance
- Material: Textured Composite/Polymer
- Paddle Length: 15.1″
Pickleball can be played on indoor and outdoor courts. However, it is difficult for players to afford two different paddles. Therefore, you must find multifunctional paddle equipment that performs incredibly perfectly indoors and outdoors. My favorite one is the Gamma paddle because of its versatility.
The Gamma pickleball paddle is an imported paddle composed of graphite material, which is lightweight, low maintenance, rustproof, and weatherproof. However, that doesn’t mean you’re all set to use this best inexpensive pickleball paddle roughly, as good care and maintenance are highly suggested because it increases the shelf-life of the paddle.
This lead edge paddle features edge guard technology, a safeguard for the edges of the graphite paddle. In other words, you don’t need to worry about this paddle’s breakage or wear and tear, even if it accidentally falls because of the edge guard. This makes the Gamma paddle more durable and everlasting than other options under this range.
- Everlasting Paddle
- Multifunctional
- Edge Guard Technology
- Not A Popular Brand
Summary
The Gamma pickleball paddle is an imported paddle that offers graphite construction, edge guard technology, a heavy-duty core, and better stability. It is not a popular brand, but you’ll not be disappointed after switching to this paddle for its exemplary performance.
5. Franklin Sports Pro Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 8.0 Ounces
- Skill Level: All
- Material: Polypropylene Core/Fiberglass
- Paddle Length: 15.5″
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the USA, and the increasing demand for its equipment, especially paddle, has become a reason behind the flooded market. It is difficult for beginners to pick a worthwhile and affordable paddle from the cluttered marketplace, so choosing a popular brand sounds like a shortcut key.
If you’re looking for a reputable and front-line pickleball equipment designing and manufacturing company, there is no better choice than Franklin. I have used many Franklin paddles, but as far as the best $100 pickleball paddle is concerned, there is no better choice than the Sports Pro paddle for its professional quality, high endurance, reliable grip, and more.
The Franklin Sports Pro offers patented Max Grit technology that features extreme stability. This best control pickleball paddle under $100 remains unaffected by external impact factors and optimizes the control and accuracy of the game. I like this paddle for beginners and practitioners who want to elevate their scoreboards.
- Max Grit Technology
- Variants Available
- High Endurance
- Not Durable
Summary
There is no need to compromise on performance when you can get the Franklin Sports Pro paddle for as low as a hundred dollars. It is available in different sizes and colors and offers optimum performance on the court.
6. ONIX Z5 Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 8.2 Ounces
- Skill Level: All
- Material: Graphite/Nomex
- Paddle Length: 15.5″
Regarding material choice, there is no better option than carbon fiber in today’s market for its sturdiness and excellent withstanding properties. Carbon fiber paddles like the ONIX Z5 are also my favorite for their low weight; in other words, these top pickleball paddles under $100 don’t want you to invest time and effort in mobility as they are freely moving paddles.
If you’re too conscious about brands, there is no better option than ONIX because it is a world-leading company that stands out for providing consistent quality and performance without costing much. Many American professional pickleball players have opted for the brand, which is highly trusted and reliable.
The ONIX Z5 is also approved by USAPA, which makes it a reliable pick for practitioners or players who want to pursue their pickleball career to the heights. However, if you are a professional player, you’re suggested to get more premium or expensive options by ONIX.
- Great Construction Quality
- Branded
- USAPA Approved
- Not For Professional Players
Summary
That’s all for the ONIX Z5! It is an excellent choice for brand-conscious buyers and offers great quality, performance, stability, and endurance.
7. Paddletek Bantam Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 8.2 Ounces
- Skill Level: All
- Material: Vinyl Graphic/Polymer Core
- Paddle Length: 15.3″
The Paddletek New Era is available in many sizes and colors, giving you space to choose one that suits you. For your information, you need to pick the paddle size as per your hand dimensions. I went for the 13 mm paddle with a 5.6-inch handle and a 16.5 x 7.5 inches paddle.
The pickleball paddle is a handheld product, so consider its handle. Likewise, the Paddletek New Era handle is cushioned with pillow-like soft foam that provides consistent support and comfort to your hands. Holding the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players under $100 for hours is not tough because it is comfortable, lightweight, and stable.
My gameplay improved greatly after I switched to this Paddletek paddle because of its heavy-duty core construction, elevated comfort, and composite sweet spot. Moreover, it is approved by the US Pickleball Association, so you can play in tournaments and professional games with it.
- Comfortable
- Variants Available
- Smart Response Technology
- Needs Practice
Summary
The Paddletek New Era is a highly comfortable paddle on this list with high responsiveness—all credit goes to its Smart Response technology. It comes in different sizes and colors and is designed to improve your gameplay.
Things You Need To Consider!
As I said earlier, choosing the right paddle without spending more than a hundred dollars is indeed difficult, considering the current market inflation. Remember that it is difficult but not impossible, so you are suggested to put maximum effort and time into exploring and finding the picture-perfect paddle to execute a mind-blowing performance in court.
However, this can only be possible when you know the crucial factors in determining the paddle’s quality, performance, and shelf-life. I’ll share these major aspects quickly for your assistance, so stay tuned!
Cost
As this article aims to enlist the most affordable paddles, I want to make clear that affordability doesn’t mean any compromise on quality and performance. The best budget-friendly paddle is one that is composed of strong materials, offers a good dose of comfort, reduces the count of mishits, and improves your proficiency, in a nutshell.
Price is not the only thing you should worry about; otherwise, you’ll face a major decline in your scoreboard. Let’s discuss the other dimensions that need your prior consideration:
Material
Pickleball paddles vary greatly depending on the materials used in their construction, for instance, fiberglass, carbon fiber, polymer, polypropylene, and more. Every material has pros and cons, so you must buy one that suits your style.
I found the carbon fiber pickleball paddles most suitable for their lightweight, maneuverability, portability, and better handling. These paddles are easier to move and control and will not cause pain or ache in your hand, wrist, or arm.
Design
The profile of the pickleball paddles is mostly similar, but the only thing that varies is the sweet spot. You should prefer paddles with larger sweet spots to provide a bigger surface area and reduce the count of wrong hits or mishits. It would be right to say that such paddles will help you elevate your score.
Weight
The paddle’s weight also matters because you need to hold it continuously. A heavier paddle will be more tiring to hold than a lightweight one, so you should avoid bulky paddles.
However, if you are a beginner, you’re suggested to be in the midst of the weight range, i.e., 0.27 Kg, or somewhere around because otherwise, it will be difficult to control the paddle, especially in the outdoor courts.
Grip
The grip handle of the paddle is an area from where you’ll be holding it, and it should be comfortable, sweatproof, slip-free, and easy to hold. In this sequence, the best pickleball paddle under $100 comes with a cushioned handle that facilitates a reliable grip and adds relaxation and ease to gaming.
Durability
One cannot add a pickleball paddle to a monthly bucket list, so you need to get a reliable and long-lasting paddle in your hands in the first place. Regarding durability, I love the latest edge protection handles that let you play pickleball without worrying about wear and tear or damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Choose A Pickleball Paddle For Beginners?
To pick the right paddle as a beginner, you should consider the build quality, weight, comfort, and stability. In short, a carbon fiber, midweight, comfortable, and highly stable paddle will be perfect for newbies.
How Do I Choose Pickleball Paddle Weight?
Based on the weight, pickleball paddles can be divided into three classes: lightweight, midweight, and heavy paddles. If you’re a beginner, go for the midweight paddles, which are easy to control; however, the lightweight ones will be perfect for professional players for better maneuverability and precision. You all should avoid bulky and heavy paddles.
Is There A Difference Between Indoor And Outdoor Pickleball Paddles?
Yes, the core construction of the indoor and outdoor pickleball paddles is different as indoor paddles are composed of light and soft plastic, which are more robust and resistant than outdoor ones. However, some multipurpose options also fit both types of courts.
Conclusion
Choosing the picture-perfect pickleball paddle that won’t cross $100 is no longer a big deal, as I have sorted the best affordable paddles in this blog post. Among all that I have shared, my experience with these three was overwhelming:
- XSPAK pickleball paddle for edge guard technology, poly construction, carbon fiber core, and better controllability.
- Head Extreme Elite paddle for its honeycomb core, fiberglass building, diamond shape, affordability, and comfort.
- Element pickleball paddle for its great build quality, lightweight profile, increased mobility, excellent customer service, and stability.
- Polypropylene Honeycomb Core & Carbon Fiber Surface
- Low Profile Edge Guard & Vibration Damping
- Best For Advance Level Players
- Weight Is 1.0 Pound
- Composite surface & Honeycomb Polymer Core
- Ergonomic Grip & Smoother Surface
- Best For All Level Players
- Weight Is 0.6 Pound
- Graphite Surface & Honeycomb Core
- Lightweight & Vibration Damping
- Best For All Level Players
- Weight Is 0.6 Pound
Now that you know the best pickleball paddle under $100, choosing the right paddle that will double the joy, increase the scoreboard, add comfort, and bring precision to your gameplay will be easier. That’s all for the best pickleball paddle for spin under $100; see you in the next blog!
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- Find The Best Pickleball Courts Near You
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- Best Pickleball Nets
I, Jeena Noven, am a renowned pickleball expert and author with over 10 years of experience playing and coaching the sport. My passion and extensive knowledge of pickleball has made me a leading authority in the game, particularly in the field of footwear. I have written countless articles for https://pickleballcard.com/, a website dedicated to pickleball, sharing my insights and expertise on the best shoes for the sport. Through personal testing and reviewing countless different brands and styles, I have developed a deep understanding of the technical aspects of shoe design that make them suitable for the demands of pickleball. In my articles, I provide valuable information for both beginner and advanced players, covering everything from the basics of shoe fit and support, to advanced tips for maximizing performance on the court. As a dedicated pickleball player and expert in footwear, I am a valuable resource for players of all levels. My articles are not only informative but also engaging, making them a must-read for anyone looking to improve their pickleball game. I am constantly researching new products and trends in the industry and my readers can always count on me to provide the most up-to-date and accurate information on the best pickleball shoes available.
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