7 Best Pickleball Paddle For Beginners in 2023

When it comes to buying the perfect pickleball paddle for a beginner, it can seem like quite a chore. There are a number of considerations to take into account: what type of material is best – graphite or fiberglass?

How will the core affect the playing style? It is important to find the right paddle that offers the unique qualities that beginner players need.

Graphite paddles tend to be lightweight and offer good power, while fiberglass paddles accommodate dinking strategies with their increased control and honeycomb cores that reduce vibration.

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List Of Best Pickleball Paddle For Beginners

For beginners, finding the best pickleball paddle can be an overwhelming task. After all, there are several important components to consider.

Fortunately, I have put together a comprehensive list of the best pickleball paddles for beginners so you can get off to a great start! Paddle weight is one of the most important factors in determining which paddle will best suit your needs as a beginner.

In addition, you’ll need to consider the core material and size of the grip when selecting your first paddle. These factors will all have a big impact on how comfortable and effective it is for you so choose wisely!

Paddletek Phoenix G6 – Overall Best Pickleball Paddle for Beginners

Paddletek Phoenix G6 - Overall Best Pickleball Paddle for Beginners

  • Comfortable grip and thick wrap for easy maneuvering of the paddle.
  • Lightweight design that is easy to handle.
  • Good power and spin capabilities when needed.
  • A 12-month warranty for extra reassurance when purchasing from Paddletek.
  • Affordable option for novice players.
  • Solid build quality that can take a beating without wearing out too quickly.
  • Low noise level production for added convenience during game play.
  • Due to its lightweight design, some power can be lost during shots.

The Paddletek Phoenix G6 is my top pickleball paddle for beginners. The paddle has a comfortable grip, balance, and control that allows for easy maneuvering during play. 

The Phoenix G6 has a 5 inche grip length and thick grip wrap which I found very helpful in maintaining control of the paddle while playing. The weight of the paddle felt gentle on my arm and allowed me to generate good power and spin when needed. 

It is also easy to handle since it has relatively lightweight compared to some other good beginner pickleball paddles available in the market today. 

I found this paddle very suitable for my needs as it provided just enough power, spin and control that enabled me to execute shots with confidence. 

This best entry level pickleball paddle also has great value for money as it comes with features such as its 12-month warranty that adds extra reassurance when purchasing this paddle from Paddletek. 

I believe the Phoenix G6 would be an excellent choice for any beginner looking to get into the game of pickleball or intermediate players wanting something reliable yet affordable at the same time. 

Its soft touch allows you to hit confidently without jarring your elbow or shoulder during long games. Additionally, novice players will appreciate its solid build quality which can take a beating without wearing out too quickly due to its construction from polymer core material and fiberglass face design. 

In summary, I highly recommend this Paddletek Phoenix G6 Pickleball Paddle for any starter player looking for an affordable yet reliable option when starting out their pickleball journey. 

With its comfortable grip, balance, control features and low noise level production, this best pickleball racket for beginners is sure to help you reach the court confidently whether you are playing recreationally or competitively!

Key Features:

FeatureDescription
Weight Range7.8-8.1 ounces
Grip Circumference4 1/4″
Grip Length5″
Paddle Length15 5/8″
Paddle Width7 3/4″
Paddle FaceVelvet textured Polycarbonate
Edge Guard1/4″ overlapping paddle face
Core MaterialGraphite/Polymer Composite Honeycomb
Core Thickness9/16″ (0.5625″)
Edge Guard1/8″ Edged Shock Guard

Vulcan 530 – Excellent Power and Control for Someone New to Pickleball

Vulcan 530 - Excellent Power and Control for Someone New to Pickleball
  • Comfortable grip.
  • Carbon fiber surface for spin control.
  • Polypropylene honeycomb core provides great power when hitting shots.
  • Elongated shape offers extra reach and power for more advanced players.
  • Great choice for tournaments and coaching camps.
  • Variety of grips to choose from (super tacky or sweat resistant).
  • Perfect for taking your game to the next level.
  • This paddle is slightly more expensive compared to traditional paddles.
  • Not suitable for casual players who don’t want a high-performance paddle.

The Vulcan 530 is my 2nd best pickleball paddle for new players in pickleball. The grip is comfortable and provides a good hold on the paddle, while the carbon fiber surface gives excellent spin control.

I find that the polypropylene honeycomb core provides great power when hitting shots. The elongated shape of the paddle also makes it easier to reach further when hitting shots, especially during serves. 

The Vulcan 530 pickleball paddle is a great choice for tournaments and coaching camps, as not only does it provide extra reach, but also great power for beginner and dvanced players. 

I found that when compared to traditional paddles, this one offers much greater power and control with each hit due to its elongated shape. It took me some time to get used to this shape since it felt a bit awkward at first, but now I enjoy its benefits in every game! 

For new players just starting out with pickleball, I highly recommend this paddle as a great starting point. Not only does it offer an easy grip and comfort upon holding it, but also gives great leverage for harder shots due to its elongated shape. 

Additionally, Vulcan offers various types of grips such as super tacky or sweat resistant depending on preference. 

All in all, the Vulcan 530 pickleball paddle is definitely worth investing in if you are looking for a high-performance paddle with excellent power and spin control perfect for taking your game to the next level!

Key Features:

FeatureDescription
Weight Range8.4-8.6 ounces
Grip Circumference4 1/2″ (Large)
Grip Length4 3/4″
Paddle Length15 3/4″
Paddle Width8″
Paddle FaceHybrid Carbon Fiber/Fiberglass
Edge Guard1/4″ overlapping paddle face
Core MaterialPolypropylene honeycomb
Core Thickness9/16″ (0.5625″)
Grip StyleTextured, high-tack grip

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Ticci Gorgeous – Strong Strike for All Level Players

Ticci Gorgeous - Strong Strike for All Level Players
  • USAPA approved
  • Fiberglass face and polymer honeycomb core
  • Ergonomic grip
  • Textured surface for better grip and accuracy
  • Edge guard for protection against ground impacts
  • Offers excellent spin on the ball and strong strikes
  • Textured surface may not be ideal for all players
  • Heavier feel compared to other top pickleball paddles for beginners on the market

For starters, Ticci Gorgeous is USAPA approved and made with a fiberglass face and polymer honeycomb core, making it both strong and durable. The ergonomic grip is comfortable and provides good balance during play. 

Additionally, it has a textured surface that helps to improve grip and accuracy while playing. 

One of the aspects I really like about this best starter pickleball paddle is its construction. At just 8 oz, the Ticci Gorgeous paddle is light enough to be controlled by even new players without putting too much strain on their arms or wrists. 

The edge guard also helps protect against ground hits which could otherwise damage the paddle. It is also aesthetically pleasing with a beautiful design that adds to the overall experience of playing pickleball. 

For those who are new to pickleball, this paddle could be a great option as it offers excellent spin on the balls and strong strikes for more experienced players. 

In addition to its features already mentioned, this paddle also comes with an indoor-only set of balls which makes it perfect for those who are planning on playing indoors only. 

My only complaint about this paddle would be that some players may not find the textured surface appealing due to its heavier feel compared to other best beginner pickleball paddle sets on the market. 

However, if you’re looking for something a bit heavier yet still easy to control, then this could be a great option for you! 

Overall, I would highly recommend the Ticci Gorgeous Pickleball Paddle for any level of player looking for something that offers excellent spin on the ball as well as strong strikes without sacrificing comfort or accuracy.

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GAMMA Dart – Spin Paddle Suitable for Beginners

GAMMA Dart - Spin Paddle Suitable for Beginners
  • Lightweight and agile design allows for extra level of finesse in game.
  • Textured face helps add spin to shots.
  • Good amount of tackiness in grip for stability during play.
  • Polyester core material provides pop to shots while maintaining a lightweight and well-balanced paddle.
  • Attractive graphic design catches attention.
  • Grip may be too small for some players.

The lightweight and agile design of Gamma Dart composite paddle allows for an extra level of finesse in my game, which is important for me as I am still learning the basics of the sport.

One of the features I liked about this paddle is the textured face, which helped me add spin to my shots. The grip also had just the right amount of tackiness for stability during play. 

The polyester core material also gave a good amount of pop to my shots while still maintaining a lightweight and well-balanced paddle.

The graphic design of the paddle also caught my attention, with a dark background and a brightly-colored image of a dart hitting its target. 

The average weight of 7.4 oz and a 7-1/2″ width also made it easy for me to maneuver and control the paddle.

However, I did find that the grip was too small for my liking and it was not the best fit for my hand.

Overall, I would recommend the Gamma Dart pickleball paddle for beginner or intermediate players looking for an all-around high-quality paddle at an affordable price. 

The slight textured surface may not be ideal for players who prefer a lot of spin on the ball, but it still offers a great deal of control and few balls go out of bounds.

Key Features:

FeatureDescription
Weight Range7.3-7.5 ounces
Grip Circumference4 1/2″ (Large)
Grip Length4 3/4 “
Paddle Length15 5/8 ”
Paddle Width7 1/2″
Paddle FaceTextured composite
Made inthe USA
Core MaterialPoly Core
Grip StyleTextured, high-tack grip

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Niupipo MX-07 – Middleweight Paddle for Starter Players

Niupipo ‎MX-07 - Middleweight Paddle for Starter Players
  • Great for spin
  • Suitable for both indoor and outdoor play
  • Easy to maneuver and provides perfect balance between control and power
  • Handle has standard diameter and provides best grip on the market
  • Cushioning on handle is perfect for easy strokes and perforated texture absorbs sweat and moisture to prevent injuries
  • Not suitable for players looking for a more lightweight paddle

The Niupipo MX-07 paddle is great for spin, which is a feature that I particularly liked. With a honeycomb composite core and a premium fiberglass face, it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor play.

The slightly flatter design of the paddle measures 7.87 inches wide, 10.63 inches long, 0.59 inches thick, and weighs 8.1oz. 

This makes it easy to maneuver and provides the perfect balance between control and power. The handle is of standard diameter of 4.5 inches and provides the best grip on the market. 

The cushioning on the handle is perfect for easy strokes and the perforated texture absorbs sweat and moisture to prevent injuries.

I also liked the high-quality construction, stability, and protection of the paddle. The edge-guard design and good-looking graphics are a bonus. 

The paddle is made of fiberglass or composite materials, which are known for their unique spinning techniques. This makes it suitable for both spin and power hitters and has a surface area measuring 7.9 inches wide by 15 inches long.

The only thing that I dislike about this paddle is that it is not suitable for players who are looking for a more lightweight paddle. However, the paddle is neither too heavy nor too light, making it easy to maneuver.

Overall, the Niupipo MX-07 Fiberglass Pickleball Paddle is perfect for beginner players like me who are looking for precision and control in their pickleball games. 

It is also suitable for fast-paced players and has a honeycomb polymer core that is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. I highly recommend this paddle to anyone who is looking for a great beginner paddle.

Key Features:

FeatureDescription
Weight Range7.60-8.00 oz
Grip Circumference4.25″
Grip Length4.80″
Paddle Length15.67″
Paddle Width7.80″
Paddle FaceFiberglass Face
Core MaterialPolymer Honeycomb Core

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Helium Versus 4 – Suitable for Beginner Players Who Need Control

Helium Versus 4 - Suitable for Beginner Players Who Need Control
  • Comes with everything needed to start playing, including a carrying bag for convenience.
  • Fiberglass face provides more control and power.
  • Light polypropylene honeycomb core adds to the overall quality of the paddles.
  • Large surface area and sweet spot for better control, especially helpful for beginners.
  • Non-slip, high comfort grip allows for longer play without discomfort.
  • Received 2 indoor and 2 outdoor balls instead of 4 outdoor balls.

Helium Versus 4 pickleball paddle comes with everything needed to start playing, including a carrying bag, making it convenient to take to the court.

One of the features I like about these paddles is the fiberglass face, which provides more control and power. The light polypropylene honeycomb core also adds to the overall quality of the paddles. 

Additionally, the large surface area and sweet spot make for better control, which is especially helpful for someone new to the sport like myself.

The non-slip, high comfort grip is also a plus as it allows for longer play without any discomfort. As someone who is not used to playing with a smooth surface, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I still had good control with these paddles. 

The only downside is that I would have preferred to receive 4 outdoor balls instead of 2 indoor and 2 outdoor balls.

Overall, I am very satisfied with the quality and value of the Helium Versus 4 pickleball paddle set. As a beginner, I would highly recommend these paddles to anyone looking for good quality equipment. 

The set is conveniently stored in a drawstring backpack, making it easy to take to the court. I am excited to continue improving my skills with these paddles.

Key Features:

FeatureDescription
Weight Range7.5 – 7.7 oz
Grip Circumference4.5″
Grip Length4.5 inches
Paddle Length15.88″
Paddle Width7.75″
Paddle FaceFiberglass Face
Core MaterialHoneycomb

Prince Response Graphite – Large Sweet Spot

Prince Response Graphite - Large Sweet Spot
  • Large sweet spot on the face due to the circular shape
  • Highly responsive and easy to control thanks to the smooth, vibration-dampening polymer core
  • 5-1/2u0022 handle length is suitable for double-handed backhands or those who prefer more handle length
  • Small circumference grip made with extra soft perforated material to reduce sweaty palms
  • Light-to-mid weight range (7.6“ 8.0 oz.) makes it easy to maneuver and have good control
  • Difficulty adjusting to the change in power between a heavy and light paddle
  • Not recommended for players who prioritize power over control.

One of the things I liked most about the Prince Response Graphite Pickleball Paddle was its circular shape, which results in a large sweet spot on the face. 

This allowed me to take advantage of every square inch of surface area and brought noticeable improvements to my game. The paddle is also highly responsive but easy to control thanks to a smooth, vibration-dampening polymer core.

Another feature I liked about the paddle was its handle, which is 5-1/2″ long. This made it suitable for double-handed backhands or those who prefer more handle length. 

The grip is also small in circumference and made with extra soft perforated material to reduce sweaty palms.

The weight of the paddle ranges from 7.6 8.0 oz., making it in the light-to-mid weight range. This was perfect for me, as I was able to maneuver it easily and had good control. The paddle also had a clear solid sound when striking the ball.

The rounded shape of the paddle was a new experience for me, but I quickly adjusted and found it was good for the short game. The paddle also had good spin characteristics and was great for volley and dinking at the net.

One downside of the paddle was that I had some difficulty adjusting to the change in power between a heavy and light paddle. But, the trade-off between power and control was worth it for me.

Overall, I would highly recommend this best graphite pickleball paddle for beginners. Its lightweight and good control make it perfect for those who rely on control instead of power. 

Its larger sweet spot and rounded shape also make it great for both novice and experienced players who prefer a control paddle in a lighter weight.

Key Features:

FeatureDescription
Weight Range7.6-8.0 ounces
Grip Circumference4″
Grip Length5 1/2″
Paddle Length15 1/2″
Paddle Width8 1/4″
Paddle FaceGraphite, 3D Graphic Print
Core MaterialPolymer Honeycomb

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What Factors Should You Consider Before Buying a Best Beginner Pickleball Paddle?

When it comes to pickleball, having the right paddle can make a big difference in your game. As a beginner, there are a few key factors to consider when choosing a paddle that will work best for you.

Weight of The Paddle

First, think about the weight of the paddle. Lightweight paddles are most appropriate for beginners and those with medical issues affecting the wrist or arm. 

These paddles are easy to maneuver and won’t put too much strain on your wrist or arm. Mid-weight paddles offer well-balanced power and control, and can be a good option for those who are looking for a little more power behind their shots. 

Finally, heavy-weight paddles are most appropriate for strong people, but may hurt the wrist or arm after prolonged use.

Core of The Paddle

The inner part or core of the paddle provides stability and determines the weight and shape, while the honeycomb pattern keeps the weight light. A honeycomb core is a great option for beginners because it provides a balance of power and control. 

Additionally, the outer part or facing touches the ball, and can either be aluminum, Nomex, or polymer, with different properties such as control and power. 

Face of The Paddle

The Facing material is carbon fiber, fiberglass, or graphite. Fiberglass is the most common and ensures the most power.

The suitable rim depends on your hand size. If you have a large hand, you will need a larger circumference and vice versa. The best way to determine the appropriate grip size is through your height.

Edge Guard

An edge guard is optional, it protects your paddle if you drop it during the game but it occupies the surface area that comes into contact with the ball. So, it’s important to consider whether you want an edge guard or not.

Final Words

Paddletek Phoenix G6 is my top choice for the best pickleball paddle for beginners because it has a comfortable grip and thick wrap which makes maneuvering the paddle easy. 

It’s lightweight design is also easy to handle and it has good power and spin capabilities when needed. 

Vulcan 530 is another great choice for beginners because of its comfortable grip, carbon fiber surface for spin control, and polypropylene honeycomb core that provides great power when hitting shots. 

Ticci Gorgeous is also a great option because it is USAPA approved with a fiberglass face and polymer honeycomb core. Another feature that makes this paddle stand out is its ergonomic grip. 

If you have any questions or want help choosing the right paddle for you, please let me know.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best way to clean your pickleball paddle is to use a damp cloth or sponge with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the surface of the paddle. After cleaning, be sure to dry the paddle thoroughly before storing it.

A hollow-core pickleball paddle is one that has a hollow chamber inside the paddle face. This design is intended to provide more power and control for the player, as well as reducing the overall weight of the paddle.

For beginners, it’s best to choose a paddle that offers a balance between power and control. A heavier paddle can provide more power, but it may be more difficult to maneuver. On the other hand, a lighter paddle can be easier to control, but it may not provide enough power. A paddle with a medium weight and a larger sweet spot can be a good choice for beginners.

It is not necessary to have a special pickleball paddle for outdoor play, but it is important to consider the materials and construction of the paddle. Outdoor play can be more demanding on a paddle, so it is important to choose a paddle that is durable and can withstand the elements.

An edge guard is a strip of material that runs around the edge of the paddle face. Its purpose is to protect the edge of the paddle from chipping or cracking, especially when it comes into contact with the ball or the ground. While it is not a mandatory feature, an edge guard is a good idea if you want to prolong the life of your paddle.

Michael Stevenson

Michael Stevenson

Hi, my name is Michael Stevenson and I’m a passionate pickleball player. I’ve been playing the game for many years and I’m pretty highly skilled at it. Pickleball is one of my favorite topics so naturally, I love to write about it.

Whether it’s tips for beginners, guides for experts, reviews of new paddles, or advanced playing techniques – if it relates to pickleball then I have something interesting to write about it. So if you’re looking for entertaining and informative information on the topic of pickleball, look no further than my written works!