To play your best pickleball, you need a paddle that suits your style, makes you look awesome, and enhances your particular strengths. Okay, okay, while you can’t hold your paddle accountable for EVERYTHING, the wrong gear can certainly be holding you back.
But how do you find that magical paddle with so many options out there? Well, we’ve done the research for you, and are excited to share our top 10 USAP-approved picks for 2024. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you can find the right paddle that fits your play style and budget.
1. Six Zero Double Black Diamond
When it comes to balancing power, control, and durability, the Six Zero Double Black Diamond is the clear favorite for best overall paddle. Sporting a premium raw carbon face, a balanced weight, and a 16mm construction, it doesn’t get much better than this. As of 2024, this is my choice for top pickleball paddle in the world.
Key Features:
- Material: High-quality carbon fiber for durability and responsiveness.
- Cost: Just under $200 which is less expensive than brands like JOOLA.
- Technology: Large sweet spot for consistent play.
2. JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus 3
For players looking to maximize speed, the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus 3 is the power paddle of choice. With feedback from pickleball’s #1 player, the textured surface generates impressive spin and pop that goes along with its explosive power. This JOOLA model’s only weakness is its control, so if you’re not a power player and you’re looking for more control, then look somewhere else.
Key Features:
- Material: Carbon Friction textured surface that creates wicked spin.
- Weight Distribution: Lightweight nature that maximizes aggressive play.
- Paddle Grip: Comfortable and won’t slip out while you’re playing.
3. CRBN-3X Power Series
The CRBN-3X Power Series is designed for advanced players who demand precision and performance. This top-rated paddle is also perfect for players who put spin on their shots, because the CRBN face is grippy enough to get a high amount of spin whether you like top spin or cuts on your shots. When comparing the CRBN-3X Power Series to the Six Zero DBD, it provides a similar balance of power and control although it has a little less pop.
Key Features:
- Unibody Design: Provides a blend of stability and comfort.
- Great Touch: Large sweet spot for consistent performance.
- Build Quality: High-end materials for durability.
4. Bread & Butter Filth
Versatility is the hallmark of the Bread & Butter Filth, making it arguably the best all-court paddle on this list. The price point on the Filth won’t break the bank, either. The Bread & Butter Filth does it all with a great blend of power and spin, although its pop can be something you have to get used to. The thermoformed body also means it provides improved durability, shot stability, and consistent hits.
Key Features:
- Value: Highly rated paddle for only $165.
- Good Balance: Even weight distribution to maximize power.
- Elongated Face: Longer face instead of a squarer one.
5. ROKNE Curved Classic
If you’re looking for a paddle that offers excellent performance at a reasonable price, the ROKNE Curved Classic is the best value option. Its lightweight design and textured surface make for a comfortable paddle that gives you plenty of spin. The paddle face won’t give you the same pop or control as other paddles in the list, but you can’t go wrong with the ROKNE Curved Classic.
Key Features:
- Vibrant Designs: 8 different bright colored designs to choose from.
- Grip: 5.5” grip size that supports both one- and two-handed shots.
- Affordability: Impressive price point at $90.
6. Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta
With a much higher price point at $250, this is a premium pickleball paddle that is made for players who want great control and precision. You will see this paddle being played by many in both recreation and professional play. Although the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta focuses on being a pure control paddle, it also provides impressive power and spin to switch it up from your drops and dinks. The uniqueness of this paddle is its borderless design, 20 mm width, and the speed slot located at the bottom of the paddle. This speed slot allows for quicker hand fights at the kitchen. If you are looking to upgrade to a control paddle to fit your skills, this Selkirk could be a must-have.
Key Features:
- Swing Speed: The Air Dynamic Throat provides improved maneuverability.
- Reduced Vibration: Smooth feel on every shot with 20 mm honeycomb core.
- Expanded Sweet Spot: A longer face means a larger sweet spot.
7. Gearbox Pro Power Elongated
With the highest price on this list, this $275 pickleball paddle deserves some praise. The Gearbox Pro Power Elongated is a contender with the Double Black Diamond for its overall power and spin. Designed with Gearbox’s patented seamless edge, the Gearbox Pro Power Elongated comes in a 14mm design and longer handle. Those coming from a tennis background might find this paddle to their liking. Naturally, with a large sweet spot, the control on this paddle takes getting used to. However, once you master the touch with this paddle, put aways will occur more often due to the power.
Key Features
- Elongated Shape: Increased reach and power.
- Quiet Sound: Much quieter than your standard paddle.
- Material: High-quality carbon fiber for durability.
8. Diadem Edge 18k
Spin enthusiasts will love the Diadem Edge 18k, which excels in generating big spin thanks to its unique surface texture and design. If you are used to hitting a ball on strings, you’ll love the accurate top spin hits you can do with the Diadem Edge 18k. The power on this paddle might be lower than others on this list, but at $230 this is a controlled, forgiving paddle that you won’t regret buying.
Key Features:
- Surface Texture: 18k carbon fiber face optimized for maximum spin.
- Grip: Long, comfortable handle for better control.
- Durability: Sleek red edge guard that protects your paddle.
9. Gamma RCF Airbender
Customization is key for the Gamma RCF Airbender, offering players the ability to adjust the paddle to their specific preferences. With insertable, weighted “shockbusters” and end caps, you can choose the perfect weight for your play style, thus eliminating the need for lead tape around the edges of your paddle. The Gamma RCF Airbender moves like a tennis racket but plays like a pickleball paddle with consistent spin, explosive power, and good control.
Key Features:
- Adjustability: Customizable weight and balance to fit your personal preference.
- Performance: High-performance design with flexibility.
- Price: Competitive price point at $200 (although accessory kits will cost you more).
10. PCKL Launch Series
New pickleball players will appreciate the PCKL Launch Series, which is designed specifically for beginners to the sport. Priced at a very affordable $65, this is a sturdy paddle that will feel great in your hand. While its forgiveness is its best quality, it has much worse power and spin than the other paddles on this list. However, it will still do you much better than picking up a cheap paddle on Amazon. All things considered; this is the best option for beginners in 2024.
Key Features:
- Sweet Spot: Large sweet spot for beginners
- Design: Neon green or white color that catches your eye.
- Affordable: Great entry-level price.
What is the Best Pickleball Paddle for Me?
Finding the “perfect paddle” can be a long journey, but once you find the one that speaks to you, you’ll finally have no excuses for why you keep losing in pickleball. All jokes aside, whether you’re looking for power, control, versatility, or value, the ten paddles in this list offer something for every playing style and skill level. However, feel free to look outside of this list as well, since there are plenty of great options that didn’t make the cut.
Let us know which ones you thought should have made it in the top ten!
