10 Best Pickleball Paddle For Beginners in 2024

Choosing the ideal pickleball paddle for a beginner can seem like a daunting task. There are several factors to consider: which material is best – graphite or fiberglass?

And how does the core affect playing style? Finding the right paddle that caters to the unique needs of beginner players is crucial.

Graphite paddles are typically lightweight and provide good power, making them a popular choice. On the other hand, fiberglass paddles are known for their increased control, suitable for dinking strategies. They often feature honeycomb cores, which are effective in reducing vibration.

List Of Best Pickleball Paddle For Beginners

Finding the best pickleball paddle for beginners can be an overwhelming task due to the various important components to consider.

Fortunately, I have compiled a comprehensive list of the best pickleball paddles for beginners to help you get off to a great start! One of the most crucial factors is paddle weight, as it significantly influences which paddle will best suit your needs as a beginner.

Additionally, it’s essential to consider the core material and grip size when selecting your first paddle. These factors greatly affect the comfort and effectiveness of the paddle, so it’s important to make a wise choice!

01- Paddletek Phoenix G6 – Overall Best Pickleball Paddle for Beginners

The Paddletek Phoenix G6 is my top recommendation for a beginner’s pickleball paddle. It offers a comfortable grip, balance, and control, allowing for easy maneuverability during play.

Design and Comfort Features of the Phoenix G6

The Phoenix G6 features a 5-inch grip length and a thick grip wrap, which I found very helpful in maintaining control of the paddle while playing. The weight of the paddle is gentle on the arm, enabling the generation of good power and spin when needed.

Additionally, it is relatively lightweight compared to other beginner pickleball paddles on the market, making it easy to handle.

I found this paddle particularly suitable for my needs, as it provided the right balance of power, spin, and control, enabling me to execute shots confidently.

This entry-level pickleball paddle also offers great value for money, with features like its 12-month warranty adding extra reassurance.

Durability and Value for Beginner Players

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 for confident hitting without jarring the elbow or shoulder during long games. Novice players will also appreciate its solid build quality, capable of withstanding rough play due to its construction from a polymer core material and fiberglass face design.

Key Features:

Feature	Description
Weight Range	7.8-8.1 ounces
Grip Circumference	4 1/4″
Grip Length	5″
Paddle Length	15 5/8″
Paddle Width	7 3/4″
Paddle Face	Velvet textured Polycarbonate
Edge Guard	1/4″ overlapping paddle face
Core Material	Graphite/Polymer Composite Honeycomb
Core Thickness	9/16″ (0.5625″)
Edge Guard	1/8″ Edged Shock Guard

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

The Vulcan 530 ranks as my second-best pickleball paddle recommendation for beginners in pickleball. The grip is comfortable, offering a firm hold on the paddle, while the carbon fiber surface ensures excellent spin control.

Design Features and Power Efficiency

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. 

This beginner-friendly pickleball set is an ideal choice for tournaments and coaching camps. It not only provides extra reach but also delivers great power, suitable for both beginner and advanced players.

Comparative Advantage in Power and Control

I noticed that, compared to traditional paddles, the Vulcan 530 offers significantly more power and control with each hit due to its elongated shape. Although it felt a bit awkward initially, I have come to appreciate its benefits in every game.

Recommendation for New Players and Customizable Grip Options

For new players just starting out in pickleball, I highly recommend this paddle as a great starting point. It offers an easy grip and comfort, along with great leverage for more powerful shots, thanks to its elongated design.

Additionally, Vulcan provides various grip options, such as super tacky or sweat-resistant, to suit different preferences.

Key Features:

Feature	Description
Weight Range	8.4-8.6 ounces
Grip Circumference	4 1/2″ (Large)
Grip Length	4 3/4″
Paddle Length	15 3/4″
Paddle Width	8″
Paddle Face	Hybrid Carbon Fiber/Fiberglass
Edge Guard	1/4″ overlapping paddle face
Core Material	Polypropylene honeycomb
Core Thickness	9/16″ (0.5625″)
Grip Style	Textured, high-tack grip

03- Ticci Gorgeous – Strong Strike for All Level Players

For starters, the Ticci Gorgeous paddle is USAPA approved and constructed with a fiberglass face and polymer honeycomb core, ensuring both strength and durability. The ergonomic grip is comfortable and offers good balance during play.

Textured Surface and Lightweight Design

Additionally, its textured surface aids in improving grip and accuracy. One aspect I particularly appreciate about this starter pickleball paddle is its lightweight construction. Weighing just 8 oz, the Ticci Gorgeous paddle is easy for new players to control without straining their arms or wrists.

The edge guard provides protection against ground hits, potentially preventing damage to the paddle. Its aesthetic appeal, with a beautiful design, enhances the overall experience of playing pickleball.

Suitability for Beginners and Considerations for Textured Surface

For beginners in pickleball, this paddle is a great choice, offering excellent spin and strong strikes, suitable for more experienced players as well.

In addition, this paddle includes an indoor-only set of balls, making it ideal for those who plan to play indoors.

My only reservation about this paddle is that some players might not favor the textured surface due to its relatively heavier feel compared to other beginner pickleball paddle sets on the market.

However, if you’re in search of a slightly heavier yet easily controllable option, the Ticci Gorgeous could be a great choice.

04- GAMMA Dart – Spin Paddle Suitable for Beginners

The lightweight and agile design of the Gamma Dart composite paddle has added an extra level of finesse to my game, which is crucial as I am still learning the basics of the sport.

Textured Face and Grip Features for Enhanced Play

One feature I particularly liked about this paddle is its textured face, which aided in adding spin to my shots. The grip also provided just the right amount of tackiness for stability during play.

The polyester core material contributed a good amount of ‘pop’ to my shots while maintaining the paddle’s lightweight and well-balanced feel.

Aesthetic Design and Maneuverability Considerations

The paddle’s graphic design, featuring a dark background with a brightly-colored image of a dart hitting its target, also caught my eye.

Its average weight of 7.4 oz and a width of 7-1/2 inches made it easy for me to maneuver and control.

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

Key Features:

Feature	Description
Weight Range	7.3-7.5 ounces
Grip Circumference	4 1/2″ (Large)
Grip Length	4 3/4 “
Paddle Length	15 5/8 ”
Paddle Width	7 1/2″
Paddle Face	Textured composite
Made in	the USA
Core Material	Poly Core
Grip Style	Textured, high-tack grip

05- Niupipo MX-07 – Middleweight Paddle for Starter Players

The Niupipo MX-07 paddle excels in spin, a feature I particularly appreciated. With its honeycomb composite core and premium fiberglass face, it is well-suited for both indoor and outdoor play.

Design Specifications for Optimal Play

The paddle’s slightly flatter design measures 7.87 inches in width, 10.63 inches in length, 0.59 inches in thickness, and weighs 8.1 oz. This design facilitates easy maneuverability and provides an optimal balance between control and power. Its handle, with a standard diameter of 4.5 inches, offers the best grip on the market.

The cushioning on the handle is ideal for smooth strokes, and the perforated texture absorbs sweat and moisture, helping to prevent injuries.

Quality, Stability, and Suitability for Different Players

I also appreciated the high-quality construction, stability, and protection offered by the paddle. The edge-guard design and attractive graphics are additional benefits.

The paddle, made from fiberglass or composite materials, is known for its unique spin techniques. This makes it suitable for both spin and power hitters, with a surface area measuring 7.9 inches wide by 15 inches long.

The only drawback I found is that it may not be the best fit for players seeking a more lightweight option. However, its weight strikes a good balance, neither too heavy nor too light, making it easy to maneuver.

Key Features:

Feature	Description
Weight Range	7.60-8.00 oz
Grip Circumference	4.25″
Grip Length	4.80″
Paddle Length	15.67″
Paddle Width	7.80″
Paddle Face	Fiberglass Face
Core Material	Polymer Honeycomb Core

06- Helium Versus 4 – Suitable for Beginner Players Who Need Control

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

Fiberglass Face and Core Quality for Enhanced Play

One feature I appreciate about this beginner-friendly pickleball set is the fiberglass face, providing enhanced control and power. The lightweight polypropylene honeycomb core also contributes to the overall quality of the paddles.

Additionally, the large surface area and sweet spot offer better control, which is particularly beneficial for someone new to the sport like me.

Grip Comfort and Control with a Minor Critique

The non-slip, high-comfort grip is a significant advantage as it allows for extended play without discomfort. As someone not accustomed to playing with a smooth surface, I was pleasantly surprised by the good control these paddles offered.

My only critique is that I would have preferred receiving 4 outdoor balls instead of the combination of 2 indoor and 2 outdoor balls.

Key Features:

Feature	Description
Weight Range	7.5 – 7.7 oz
Grip Circumference	4.5″
Grip Length	4.5 inches
Paddle Length	15.88″
Paddle Width	7.75″
Paddle Face	Fiberglass Face
Core Material	Honeycomb

07- Prince Response Graphite – Large Sweet Spot

One aspect I particularly appreciated about the Prince Response Graphite Pickleball Paddle was its circular shape, which creates a large sweet spot on the face.

This allowed me to utilize every square inch of the surface area, leading to noticeable improvements in my game.

Responsive Core and Handle Length Features

The paddle is also highly responsive yet easy to control, thanks to its smooth, vibration-dampening polymer core.

Another feature I found beneficial was the paddle’s handle, measuring 5-1/2 inches long. This length makes it suitable for double-handed backhands or for those who prefer a longer handle.

The grip is small in circumference and crafted with extra soft perforated material, which helps reduce sweaty palms.

Weighing between 7.6 and 8.0 oz., the paddle falls within the light-to-mid weight range. This was ideal for me, as it allowed for easy maneuverability and good control.

Performance in Game Play and Power Adjustment

The paddle also produced a clear, solid sound upon striking the ball. Adapting to the rounded shape of the paddle was a new experience for me, but I quickly adjusted and found it effective for short-range play. The paddle also excelled in spin characteristics and performed well for volleys and dinking at the net.

One challenge I faced was adjusting to the difference in power between heavier and lighter paddles. However, for me, the balance between power and control was a worthwhile trade-off.

Key Features:

Feature	Description
Weight Range	7.6-8.0 ounces
Grip Circumference	4″
Grip Length	5 1/2″
Paddle Length	15 1/2″
Paddle Width	8 1/4″
Paddle Face	Graphite, 3D Graphic Print
Core Material	Polymer Honeycomb

08- Heritage ‎Essentials – Stylish Pickleball Design Sparks Conversations

First off, the look of this paddle caught my eye. Its large logo and two-tone color scheme really pay homage to the origins of pickleball, and holding it feels like holding a piece of the sport's history. Every time I stepped onto the court with it, it sparked conversations about the game's roots – a nice bonus to the playing experience.

Gameplay Performance: Control and Soft Touch

When it comes to gameplay, the graphite surface of the Heritage Essentials offers a fantastic mix of control and soft touch. It measures 10.4" in length and 7.75" in width, which I found perfect for strategic shots. The paddle's 13mm polypropylene honeycomb core added a nice pop to my hits while enlarging the sweet spot, enhancing both speed and spin thanks to its design.

Lightweight Design for Agile Play

Weighing in at just 7.6 ounces, the paddle is on the lighter side, which I appreciated during fast-paced, net-front volleys. The lightweight design allowed for quick swing movements and swift reactions, which is crucial in intense matches.

Whether I was playing a friendly match or participating in a more competitive game, this paddle suited all occasions. It's versatile enough to cater to various styles and skill levels, which is great for someone like me who enjoys both casual and competitive play.

Customization: Adding Weight for Personal Preference

I experimented with adding a bit of weight to the paddle, and it was quite straightforward. This customization can be a game-changer for players who prefer a heavier paddle, offering a different stroke dynamic.

Precision and Control in Gameplay

One thing that really stood out to me was how this paddle offered a sense of control and precision. Whether I was serving or returning, I felt like I had an excellent grip on the game, a factor that often influences star ratings among players.

09- Diadem Hero - Sturdy Entry-Level Paddle

Right off the bat, the Hero's price tag of around $50 caught my eye. It's not every day you find a quality paddle at such an affordable price, especially when you're just starting out in pickleball and not looking to invest a fortune. This makes it an ideal choice for retirement communities and those at varying skill levels.

Build Quality: Sturdy and Reliable

When I first picked up the Hero, its build quality was immediately apparent. Despite being an entry-level paddle, it didn't feel flimsy or cheap. It felt sturdy and well-made, which gave me a lot of confidence as I stepped onto the court.

Lightweight Design and Maneuverability

Weighing in at 7.6 ounces, the Hero is lightweight and super maneuverable. This was a huge plus for me, as it allowed for quick responses at the net and didn’t tire my arm out during longer play sessions, showcasing its responsiveness without any restriction.

The fiberglass surface coupled with the polypropylene honeycomb core gave a nice balance of control and power, which was fantastic for a beginner like me. I found it forgiving on those inevitable off-center shots, yet still responsive enough to give a clean and even bounce.

Optimal Length and Performance in Game Techniques

The Hero's 15.6-inch length felt just right, fitting well within the size formula and offering various size choices. I was particularly impressed with its performance on dinks and drop shots. The control it offered in these aspects of the game was comparable to higher-end models I've tried.

Focus on Control and Power for Beginners

Now, one area where the Hero differs from other paddles I've used is in its spin capabilities. However, as a beginner, my focus is more on mastering control and power, and the Hero excels in these areas, suiting those at the beginning skill level.

10- GoSports GS AIR - Close to Net Control Improvement

When I first saw the GS AIR, its aerodynamic design caught my eye. It's unique and distinctive, with a sleek look that stands out from the crowd, a true embodiment of pickleball parlance. I was initially skeptical about its smaller dimensions and the triangle cutout, but these concerns vanished once I started playing. The design actually contributed to a more fluid serving and receiving motion, enhancing the playing experience.

Increased Power and Precision in Gameplay

During my 3-hour play session at an outdoor place, I noticed a significant increase in power with the GS AIR pickleball racket. Its control during kitchen play (close to the net) was impressive, allowing me to direct the pickleballs with more precision. As a player who's not quite at the expert level, this paddle boosted my confidence on the court.

High-Quality Leather-Wrapped Handle

The leather-wrapped handle is a touch of class. It's high-quality and adds to the overall grip and feel of the paddle. Plus, the GS AIR is lighter than other polymer paddles I've used, which enhanced my playing experience. The lightweight nature meant less fatigue and more agility in my swings.

Currently, the GS AIR is available in matte black. It's not flashy, and the branding is minimal, which I personally like. It's worth noting that dirt and debris are easily noticeable on the surface, but a quick wipe down does the trick.

The included case is a bit of a letdown as it doesn't cover the entire width of the paddle. However, this seems to be a common post-purchase issue among paddle manufacturers, so it's not a dealbreaker.

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