Best Pickleball Paddles 2024 | Pickleheads (2024)

1. Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control

2. CRBN-3X Power Series

3. JOOLA Perseus

4. Vatic Pro PRISM Flash

5. Bread & Butter Filth

6. PCKL Pro Series 16

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An uncompromising paddle that delivers on power, control, spin, and even price

Almost all new paddles claim to offer the "perfect blend" of power, spin, and control. However, having tested over 30 paddles in 2023, I can tell you that most are lacking in at least one of those qualities.

The Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control (DBD) is that rare paddle that actually succeeds. I was super impressed in my play testing. Whether it was hard drives, heavy spin, or accurate volleys, this paddle elevated my game. That's why I picked it as the best overall paddle of 2023.

Another of my favorite paddles, the CRBN-3X made a strong case for #1. However, in the end, I picked the DBD for its larger sweet spot and touch more power.

Who it suits

This is for anyone at intermediate level or higher (pickleball skill rating of 3.5-5.0), as well as anyone put off by the $250 price tag of many premium paddles. If you're a beginner, you'll find it hard to master—it's just a bit stiff and poppy and you'll find it harder to control touch shots. I'd recommend something like the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 instead.

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Features

This paddle has a raw carbon fiber face that generates an impressive level of spin—upward of 2,000 RPMs (i.e. how many times the ball rotates per minute; above 1,600 is considered high), which is why I scored it 10/10. The face will also last longer than paddles with sprayed-on grit, like the Selkirk Power Air Series.

Like many of the top paddles in 2023, the DBD is thermoformed. While this added power, it also gave it some unwanted stiffness. If you haven't played with thermoformed paddles before, just know they take some getting used to.

Watch my initial thoughts on the DBD:

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The DBD has foam injected into the walls—a technology that Six Zero calls their "carbon fusion edge tech". While this is fairly common in newer paddles, I found this gives the DBD more stability and a larger sweet spot than most raw carbon paddles I've tested.

With so many premium paddles offering variations on the same technology, the enhanced sweet spot and extra power are what set this paddle apart for me.

Design and feel

You can tell a lot of research and development went into making this paddle—it feels premium out of the box, and looks absolutely stunning with a pink cherry blossom design. I also found it more user-friendly than most other thermoformed paddles I tested. It's also 0.4 oz lighter than the JOOLA Hyperion but feels just as solid and powerful.

Performance

It's hard to find faults in the DBD's performance. It generates a ton of spin and power yet has a very forgiving sweet spot that other thermoformed paddles struggle to offer. I could hit the kind of resets (defensive touch shot) that had my opponents thinking: "Wait… what just happened?"

You'll get way more forgiveness from the DBD than with the JOOLA Perseus, but almost as much power as the Bread & Butter Filth. I think any intermediate plays an aggressive game (like me) is going to love this paddle straight out of the box.

For me, the biggest fault is the control—specifically the paddle's pop. Balls come off the paddle fast, and many players will love that. However, if you struggle with popping up drops and dinks, this paddle might not be for you. Instead, I'd recommend a control-oriented paddle, like the Vatic Pro Flash or Vatic Pro PRISM Flash.

Value for money

The fact this paddle is only $180 is really surprising. Even if it was $250—like the JOOLA Perseus or the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta—I would have picked it as the best overall paddle of 2024.

Players will also appreciate it's a full $50 cheaper than my second pick, the CRBN-3X. So, not only is it the best overall, it's easily one of the best values out there. I'd say it's worth every penny, and I can't see very many people being unhappy with it.

My verdict

One of the best, and one of my top picks for intermediates

It was really hard to pick between the CRBN-3X and the DBD as my top paddle of 2023. These two are always in my bag and I play with both almost every single week.

Just like the DBD, the CRBN-3X manages to offer all three: tons of power, spin, and control. The DBD edges it out slightly with a touch more power and a bigger sweet spot. However, if you want more control and less pop, I think you'll find the CRBN-3X to be an excellent alternative.

Who it suits

Alongside the Vatic Pro Flash, this is the paddle I recommend most often to intermediate players, since it has enough power and spin to start playing a more aggressive and advanced game. I even found its level of control and forgiveness among the best thermoformed carbon paddles I tested, which intermediates will appreciate.

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CRBN started the raw carbon trend, and after testing over 25 raw carbon paddles this summer, I feel they are still the best of the best. The 3X is definitely worth trying out—especially if you were torn between the elongated 1X and square-shaped 2X.

This paddle particularly excels on the power side. So, if you're more focused on your touch game, try the Vatic Pro Flash instead.

Features

The carbon fiber face on the original CRBN Control Series had a reputation for great spin, and that's still true with the 3X. CRBN added a foam injection around the walls and into the handle, along with a unibody design for extra stability. This will give you more stability and a larger, more consistent sweet spot.

Design and feel

This feels solid and premium—a really well-built paddle. It has the same black carbon fiber design we're seeing everywhere, but I like the slick and modern look.

It felt great in my hands from the get-go—heavy enough to generate power but light enough to keep me ahead in fast kitchen exchanges.

Performance

I love this paddle for spin. I got tons on my serves, and I could hit the kind of hard topspin drives that look like they're sailing long, but drop right on the line. It had lots of power too, right up there with the Bread & Butter Filth and the DBD.

Like with most thermoformed paddles, control is slightly compromised here for power. Don't get me wrong—it had enough for me, and good forgiveness and consistency. It played really well up at the kitchen in dink exchanges, but I found it easy to hit drop shots too high—especially if I put too much swing on my shot.

If you're after a control paddle that plays similarly to the 3X, check out the Vatic Pro Flash.

Value for money

For intermediates who play a fast game, this paddle is absolutely worth the $230 price tag. While the DBD is around $50 cheaper, that paddle isn't for everyone.

So, if you want something with more control and a softer, plush feel, the 3X is worth the premium price. It's just a paddle that will make almost any intermediate's game better.

However, if you're on a budget, both the Legacy Pro and the Vatic Pro Flash are great alternatives around 40% cheaper than the 3X.

My verdict

A hard-hitting paddle with surprisingly good control

I tested over 20 thermoformed carbon fiber paddles this year and they almost all play similarly—big power and spin, but lacking enough control.

The Perseus was different in that it had arguably the best control of the thermoformed paddles I tested, with enough power to make it a great all-court paddle.

It also solved many flaws of the previous model, the Hyperion. While I loved that paddle, I found it head heavy, and many players complained about how easily it could break at the neck.

The JOOLA Perseus is the GOAT Ben Johns' new paddle-of-choice, and though I think my top two picks are better paddles, it's still an easy choice for third place.

Who it suits

This one is definitely not for beginners, and many early intermediates will struggle too. I found the sweet spot surprisingly small, so that will challenge newer players. It's also easy to pop up balls, especially when you first play with it.

Try the JOOLA Perseus & see why it's the world #1's top paddle

JOOLA fans will love it, though. It plays like the Hyperion without the head heaviness, so it's a lot faster in kitchen exchanges. Any advancing intermediate all the way up to the best players in the world should consider this paddle.

Features

JOOLA kept the hyperfoam edge walls from the Hyperion and added thermoformed engineering. They updated the surface from "carbon friction" to "charged carbon", though I can't quite tell the difference. It did spin less than the Hyperion, so that was a disappointing update.

One of the biggest new features is the "fully encased carbon" design (aka unibody). This now matches how almost every carbon fiber paddle is made these days. You'll get a stiffer, crisper feel and more power. Plus, it won't break like the Hyperion was known to.

Check out my initial thoughts on the JOOLA Perseus:

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Design and feel

I loved the lighter weight on the Perseus—it doesn't have the sluggish feel I got from the Hyperion. The upgraded grip felt a lot better to me too. It's gray instead of white, so it won't get as dirty, and it's a lot more comfortable than the Hyperion's ribbed one.

The Perseus looks great too. It has the same Ben Johns' signature design, with pops of light blue color.

Performance

This felt much quicker in my hands than the Hyperion. It's 8.0 oz, so you have plenty of room to add lead tape and customize the weight. I didn't experiment much with lead tape, but a few of my 4.5-5.0 friends said an extra 0.1-0.2 oz of lead tape did wonders for this paddle.

Recreational players might find that annoying, though. It doesn't play as well as the DBD out of the box.

When it came to control shots, I could dink, drop, and reset with ease. While this isn't a power paddle, I was satisfied with the power I got on serves and drives. Spin was adequate, but nowhere near the levels I got with more spin-oriented paddles like the Diadem Edge 18k.

For lower-level players, the sweet spot on this paddle might be a little too small. Even I had a good number of mish*ts before I got used to it. You'll likely find the Perseus too unforgiving.

Value for money

The Perseus is only worth the $250 price if it works for you. That might sound obvious, but it's true. If you love JOOLA paddles and want an upgrade to the Hyperion, it's worth spending the money.

However, if you need something with more power and spin, I'd look elsewhere. The Bread & Butter Filth is a much better pick for power players while the Diadem Edge 18k is my favorite for spin.

My verdict

A low-priced paddle to rival the most elite raw carbon fiber paddles

I heard that this paddle could rival some of the best in the game, but for $100, I thought there must be a catch. While the sweet spot can be inconsistent, the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash otherwise plays like an over $200 paddle.

Like lots of elite paddles, it's made from raw carbon fiber. It has excellent spin and enough power to let you swing hard and play an advanced, aggressive game. It's by far the best paddle under $100 I've ever played with—nothing else even comes close. It's also one of the best control paddles I've ever played with.

Who it suits

This paddle works for almost anyone from advancing beginners all the way up to tournament-ready players. It's built for any player looking to advance their game without spending a fortune.

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The only advancing players who might not go for this are those who love power first. Instead, I'd recommend the next paddle on this list, the Bread & Butter Filth.

Features

Vatic Pro built this paddle face with the same material (Toray T700 carbon fiber) you find in expensive thermoformed paddles like the Gearbox CX14E Ultimate Power and the CRBN-3X. This will bring lots of spin to your game.

You also get the same type of foam edge walls you find in the JOOLA Hyperion and the unibody design that CRBN paddles are known for. That's all to say that this paddle, while not thermoformed, has a lot of the same tech as $200-$250 paddles.

Watch my first thoughts on the PRISM Flash:

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Design and feel

It looks like a ton of other paddles, but that's not what matters. When I opened it, I felt like I'd unwrapped a high-end paddle. It felt so good and stable in my hands during multiple testing sessions that I'd happily pack this even for a tournament.

Performance

This is one of my favorite ever control paddles. My 3rd shot drops were on point, my serves and drives were super accurate, and I could last in long dink exchanges. I was surprised by the amount of spin I could get too.

My topspin serves, drives, backspin, and sidespin all played as well as they do with an elite raw carbon paddle. The heaviness of the paddle helped with its power. I was able to hit hard topspin serves that almost never went out.

The only drawback is the sweet spot. It's not as consistent as the more expensive paddles I've been comparing it to. I had to really focus on hitting the ball dead center. Anywhere off center and I had mish*ts. That said, the hybrid shape helped to offset some of this downside, making the paddle overall decently forgiving.

Value for money

This is probably the best value ever offered in pickleball, along with its cousin the Vatic Pro Flash, which is the best pick for intermediates in 2023. For just $100, you get a high-performance paddle with control, spin, and power that honestly rivals the JOOLA Perseus.

My verdict

My top pick for hard-hitters, this is the most powerful paddle I tested in 2023

With thermoforming becoming so popular in 2023, there are almost too many "power" paddles to choose from. Picking the best wasn't easy. However, having tested over 30 paddles this year so far, I can confirm the Bread & Butter Filth hit the hardest of them all.

Not only does it beat the Selkirk Power Air Invikta (one of my top power picks), but the Filth actually gave me way more control and forgiveness as well. I think it's a much better pick for the average player out there. More than anything, though, this is just a fun paddle to play with.

Who it suits

This is a paddle for the bangers—players who like to hit hard and with lots of spin. Both power and spin were 10/10 for me. It can also work as an all-court paddle with just enough control to round out your game.

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However, it plays a lot wilder and livelier than more control-oriented paddles like the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta and the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash. While I personally loved this, it won't suit everyone.

Features

This is a thermoformed paddle and it certainly played like one with lots of power. It has the raw T700 carbon fiber face we all know helps to generate good spin.

The unibody design and foam injected in the walls and handle give some added stability. That said, while it's definitely a stable paddle, it felt slightly less so than the JOOLA Hyperion or the CRBN Power Series.

Watch my first thoughts on the Bread & Butter Filth:

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Design and feel

I'm a huge fan of the design. The psychedelic face and the tan grip that I chose really made this paddle stand out on the court.

It didn't feel as soft and plush in my hands as the CRBN-1X Power Series, but it was less stiff than most thermoformed paddles I've played with. It was comfortable throughout my playing sessions but I did find the grip a bit more slippery than I'd have liked in the hot Arizona sun.

Performance

Bread & Butter claim their paddles were designed in outer space. Unfortunately, in my first session, I was hitting shots into outer space, but I stuck with it.

By my third or fourth game, I got used to the pop and started loving how hard-hitting it was. The spin was great, and the control was surprisingly good too. I could hit drops, resets (defensive touch shots), and dinks with ease. I had so much fun playing with the Bread & Butter Filth that I didn't want my testing to end.

Value for money

I compare this paddle most closely to one of my all-time favorites, the CRBN-1X, which retails around $230. The Bread & Butter Filth plays almost identically but costs $165.

If you've got $230 to spend, I'd still recommend going for the CRBN as it's a tad bit more responsive and controlled. However, if your budget is below $200 or you just love power, the Filth is an excellent alternative.

My verdict

A well-balanced paddle that has a bit of everything

If you're ready to graduate from beginner paddles, you'll need something with more power and spin to elevate your game. At the same time, your new paddle should have enough control and forgiveness so that it's not overwhelming.

I chose the PCKL Pro Series 16 as my favorite step-up paddle this year because it's balanced in all those categories. It has a super user-friendly feel, too.

Who it suits

Rising beginners and early intermediates are going to like this paddle. It has a natural feel and is light in the hand while still packing some power. It doesn't take too long to get used to either, so I'm confident it'll help you win more games.

I don't recommend this for advanced players because it doesn't have the responsiveness or stability of something like the CRBN-1X Power Series.

Save 10% on the Pro Series 16 with code PICKLEHEADS

Features

The PCKL Pro Series 16 checks a lot of boxes when it comes to the best of modern paddle tech. It has a Toray T700 raw carbon fiber face for spin and durability. Also, it has foam injected into the walls to extend the sweet spot (though I personally think the sweet spot could be bigger).

This paddle uses a sturdy unibody design, meaning it should stand up to plenty of play. It's also a thermoformed paddle. If you haven't played with one before, you might be apprehensive as they're known for having a stiff, poppy feel. Thankfully, the Pro Series isn't overly stiff and it hits hard without being too powerful. That's going to help new intermediates.

Design and feel

Once again, PCKL nailed the design. I really like the lime green edge guard and white handle on this paddle. They contrast with the classic jet-black carbon look really well.

The materials feel premium, on par with all the top raw carbon paddles I've tested in 2023. This paddle is comfortable to play with, and the weight distribution helps it play well on the courts.

Performance

For me, the PCKL Pro Series 16 plays like an all-court paddle. It has a good balance of power, control, and spin.

On power, I was able to hit hard drives and putaways pretty routinely, despite it having a 16 mm core (usually reserved for "control" paddles). My touch game was on point. I could hit drop after drop, from simple ones to more technical ones with topspin. Spin was up there with some of the top raw carbon fiber paddles on the market.

The elongated shape makes it a little sluggish at the kitchen but this is offset by the good weight distribution, which makes it maneuverable.

Value for money

I think this is great value for money if you have the budget. There are other paddles around the same price that can offer better spin, power, or control, but the Pro Series 16 gives you good all-court performance for $160. If you're looking for a step-up paddle, this is my pick for you.

My verdict

A hot new control paddle from Selkirk, endorsed by pro player Jack Sock

The LUXX is for intermediate-advanced players (3.5 and above) who want a control paddle that can also deliver big spin and solid power. This isn't your typical soft control paddle—it gives you everything you need to play at a competitive level.

The Gearbox CX14E Ultimate Power was my previous favorite control paddle in 2023, but that's now an old model. Gearbox released a new line called the "Pro Series", and there's a ton of buzz around it. It was on a 10-week back order—I just got mine recently and have a review coming.

Having tested the LUXX over recent weeks, I decided it deserved a spot on this list. I'm really impressed with it. I think it's better for control-focused players, especially if you're playing at a higher level.

Jack Sock, a former tennis top 10 and recent pickleball convert, plays with this paddle. He made a big splash in the PPA Tour in 2023, taking home the mixed doubles title with Anna Leigh Waters at the North Carolina Open.

I considered putting the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash in this category, as it also has 10/10 control. However, since that's my pick for paddles under $100, I'm going with the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta.

Who it suits

The better you are, the more you'll get out of this paddle. It will probably be too challenging for beginners and early intermediates (3.0 and below). The LUXX fits players who are more focused on their touch game rather than playing aggressively (though it has more power than I expected).

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Features

The first thing you'll notice with Selkirk Air paddles is the open-throat design. This "Air Dynamic Throat" isn't just a gimmick—it really does boost the paddle's swing speed.

The LUXX Control model also stands out for having a 20 mm core. I thought this would make the paddle too soft for my liking, like the 19 mm Diadem Warrior V2. So, I was surprised to find that the LUXX has quite a bit of pop.

Selkirk being Selkirk, you'll notice lots of unique terms in their specs. The "Florek" carbon fiber is one of those. This works like other good carbon fiber surfaces, creating as much power and spin as the more common T700 carbon.

I do worry that the face will degrade over time, though, since the grit is painted on rather than being a built-in texture.

Design and feel

Like with the Selkirk VANGUARD, I dig the signature look that Selkirk Air paddles have. I especially like the light blue LUXX I ordered—it's the model Jack Sock plays with.

I've come to expect a premium feel from Selkirk, and the LUXX doesn't disappoint. It feels great right out of the box and comes with a premium grip. On the courts, it's light and fast. I rocked this on many 2-hour sessions.

Performance

This was built as a control paddle, and control is where it excels. The thick 20 mm core takes pace off the ball to help you reset off challenging hard shots. This makes it a great paddle when you're facing off against bangers at the 3.5 level or higher.

This paddle boosts my topspin third-shot drops and complements my touch game on technical shots and routine stuff too.

I have to admit, though, lower-level players will find it less consistent on control than one like the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash. That's why I recommend this one mostly for experienced players.

Spin is right up there with control. I play with a lot of topspin and I feel right at home. I can rip drives and passing shots to make up for a slight lack of power.

Power is more than I expected from a 20 mm paddle, though. When I want to turn up the aggression, I can. I just have to swing hard. That combo of spin and control means I can hit hard drives like I can with my favorite power paddles like the CRBN-1X and B&B Filth.

Last but not least, the LUXX is very forgiving for a performance paddle. It has a generous sweet spot and its softness makes its Power Air cousin feel like a 2x4.

Value for money

The LUXX is built for experienced players, many of whom are willing to spend $250. If you want a high-performance paddle that's strong on control and spin, plays really fast, and has enough power too, this is well worth it in my opinion.

If you're on a stricter budget but you still want great control and spin, check out the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash on this list. It's my favorite paddle under $100.

My verdict

A paddle that generates the most consistent spin I've seen

The Legacy Pro was my previous number #1 spin paddle. Don't get me wrong, I still like the Legacy Pro. However, after Diadem released new spin tech with their "3D triaxial weave 18k carbon fiber" paddle face, I had to reconsider my top spin paddle.

This cool new tech might just change the game. The Edge 18k generates the best spin I've seen so far in pickleball. Not only is spin a touch higher than the Legacy Pro, it's more consistent too.

Who it suits

I think the 18K is ideal for any player from intermediate level or higher who likes to play with a lot of spin. I also think anyone coming from tennis will like how it plays.

That said, this is 16 mm and non-thermoformed, so you have to be OK with a paddle that's not built for power. It plays all-court, but I'd say it skews towards control.

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Features

The standout feature here is the 18k carbon fiber face. Diadem uses a new woven 3D pattern that aims to get consistent spin no matter what angle you hit the ball at. It really works, creating spin unlike any I've seen before. It has a solid edge guard for durability too.

Check out my initial thoughts on the Diadem Edge 18k:

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Design and feel

The boxy design on the paddle face is no gimmick. This is the 3D pattern I mentioned above, and it has a rough texture that gets you such good spin. I think this is a cool-looking paddle that stands out from others thanks to its red edge guard.

It has an intermediate-friendly 8 oz weight, though it feels heavier in the hands than I expected. It doesn't have the stiff feel of a thermoformed paddle.

Performance

Right off the bat, I'm able to hit probably the best spin I've ever hit. I didn't think you could get better than the T700 carbon fiber faces that are so popular, but the Diadem Edge is a step up.

I really like hitting topspin with the 18k. I'm able to get lower down on the ball and hit tennis-style topspin consistently. In fact, I feel like I could just play tennis out there and still win games. I would give this paddle 11/10 for spin if I could.

Control is good too, almost up there with the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta. The large sweet spot also makes it a forgiving paddle.

I should mention that this is not built to be a power paddle. If you need more pop, I'd recommend checking out the Bread & Butter Filth instead.

Value for money

If you're on a more limited budget, the Legacy Pro is still a great spin paddle for $150. However, if you have $230 to spend and you want the best spin paddle that money can buy, the Diadem Edge 18k really is unique. I'd say it's 100% worth the price.

My verdict

All-round performance for only $65

Of all the budget paddles I tested this year, the PCKL Launch Series held its place at the top. I think it's an excellent choice for beginner players who want a decent paddle without having to spend big on their first paddle.

Who it suits

The PCKL Launch Series is definitely for beginners. It doesn't have the features to play at a more advanced level. However, if you're new to pickleball, you'll find this paddle super-responsive from the start.

Save 10% on the PCKL Launch Series with code: PICKLEHEADS

It's extremely forgiving with an impressively large sweet spot, which will help you to avoid frustrating mish*ts. This makes it easier for you to develop your game, hit more shots, and win more points.

Features

The widebody design is crucial here. It gives the PCKL Launch its huge sweet spot and makes it so forgiving. The fiberglass surface provides excellent pop and control which will satisfy beginners. However, the surface does result in a lack of spin.

Watch my initial review of the PCKL Launch Series:

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Design and feel

I played with the neon green paddle and really dug its vibe. While looks don't always matter, a lot of beginners want to step out on the court feeling confident. I definitely did with this paddle.

It has great feel—a lot more than I expected from a paddle at this price. The weight and balance make it feel strong and sturdy while remaining responsive. Beginners will love how comfy it is in the hand.

Performance

In my testing, I found this paddle surprisingly responsive from my first warm-up dink. While the spin was lacking, the paddle was forgiving, could generate plenty of power, and had solid control. This means you can try more advanced touch shots like the 3rd shot drop while having enough power to use drive shots in your game.

The Launch Series performed well to the edge, providing consistent results even on off-center hits. For beginners especially, this will reduce the worry of mish*ts and ensure solid contact with every swing.

Value for money

Priced around $65, the PCKL Launch Series is a solid and forgiving paddle that punches well above its weight. If you're a beginner on a budget, this paddle will definitely help to improve your game.

Pros

✔️ Wide body is ideal for beginners

✔️ Extra large sweet spot

✔️ Bright, colorful design

Cons

❌ Easy to pop up balls—only an issue against stronger players

❌ Too light for some players

❌ Can be weak at the net

My verdict

A beginner paddle backed by world #1, Anna Leigh Waters

Of all the beginner paddles I've tested in 2023, the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 is my favorite for a few reasons. Firstly, it's super forgiving, which is the most important quality for newcomers getting a feel for the game. Avoiding frustrating mish*ts will help you to grow in confidence.

It's also got better control than the other beginner paddles I tested. Lastly, it has a really user-friendly feel, taking me almost no time to get used to.

Who it suits

This is solely for beginners in my opinion. I don't think intermediates will like it as it doesn't get enough power and spin to help you win more advanced matches. I'm surprised Anna Leigh Waters still plays with it, but I'm sure she has a more advanced custom version.

See why the Bantam TS-5 is backed by world #1 Anna Leigh Waters

Features

The Bantam TS-5 isn't a carbon fiber or thermoformed paddle, so don't expect any high-end tech. It's got a traditional polymer honeycomb core. The fiberglass face has a wide 8" shape, giving you a larger sweet spot. Both of these features make it easy to play with. One negative is that you end up with a short 5" handle, making two-handers a challenge.

Design and feel

The design isn't too impressive, and it doesn't feel as exciting as a raw carbon fiber paddle. However, compared to other paddles under $100, it's solid and lightweight at the same time which is impressive. It's very comfortable to play with, and I think beginners will appreciate not tiring out as quickly as you can with heavier paddles.

Performance

The paddle's forgiveness was my favorite feature by far. I honestly found it hard to get a mish*t across multiple testing sessions. It also has better control than most beginner paddles. I was able to place shots where I wanted almost all of the time.

For more advanced players, the two areas it's lacking in are spin and power. However, beginners will be more worried about their soft game, and that's where this paddle shines.

Value for money

$99 is a high price for a beginner paddle, so it has to be worth it. Especially when you can get the PCKL Launch Series for $65 and the SLK NEO 2.0 paddle set for $79. I do think the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 justifies its price, though.

While it offers similar forgiveness to the other two, it tops them both for control. If you want something fun for casual play, go with something cheaper. However, if you're ready to take pickleball seriously, this will help you win a lot more games against beginners. It'll also last a lot longer than the cheap beginner paddles you see on Amazon.

My verdict

A soft control paddle with enough spin and pop to take you to the next level

When you step up to intermediate level, you want a paddle that'll let you introduce power and spin into your game while maintaining high levels of control.

It can't be too lively or have too much pop, and should have a soft feel. The Vatic Pro Flash ticked all of these boxes for me, making it easily the best intermediate paddle I've played with in 2023.

Who it suits

This paddle is ideal for intermediates. It keeps the soft feel and excellent control of a beginner paddle but adds a ton of spin and enough power without being overwhelming. You're getting a strong thermoformed paddle that still feels soft.

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Just know that you'll have to adapt to the stiffer, poppier thermoformed feel. If you're not there yet, try the cheaper paddle in the series: the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash.

Features

This is a raw carbon fiber paddle with a unibody design, so it should last you a long time. However, since it's thermoformed, it does have that stiff feel which will take you a while to get used to if you haven't used one before.

There's foam injected into the walls too, which creates a nice, large sweet spot. While this does make the paddle more stable, I personally found it noticeably less so than the gold-standard JOOLA Hyperion.

Watch my first thoughts on the Vatic Pro Flash:

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Design and feel

The design is nothing fancy—a mostly black paddle with a touch of color—but that's not what's important here. This paddle is more focused on giving you top performance without the high price tag.

In the hands, it feels really light, even lighter than its 8.2 oz (I played with the 16 mm version). It was comfortable across multiple sessions but I did have to swing hard to get the kind of power I like, which tired me out a bit more than when I play with power paddles.

Performance

This is the softest thermoformed paddle I've played with. I really liked the control on it, though I was a bit let down by the amount of power it can generate. Other thermoformed paddles like the Bread & Butter Filth are way more powerful. That said, the softness really helped my touch game. I was able to hit difficult 3rd shot drops consistently.

I was really surprised to learn the Vatic Pro Flash is great for spin. It's up there with top spin paddles like the CRBN-3X and Diadem Edge 18k, which I wasn't expecting given the low price. I could generate the kind of topspin that dips at my opponents' feet (one of my favorite shots in the game).

Value for money

This is one to rival top performance paddles like the CRBN-3X ($230), the DBD ($180), and the Bread & Butter Filth ($165). Considering this is only $140, that's a bargain in my opinion.

In fact, it's arguably the best value pickleball paddle available in 2023, rivaled only by its cousin, the PRISM at $99. For intermediates, who aren't up for paying over $200 for a paddle, I highly recommend this one.

My verdict

Elite power and spin make this a top pick for advanced players

I gave this paddle the highest power rating of 2023, tied only with the Bread & Butter Filth. In my testing, I found that it also had a quick and powerful swing, really high spin levels, and lots of pop. That's why I picked it as my top choice for advanced players.

Who it suits

I like to play an aggressive, attacking game and this paddle was a great match for me. I think it's suited to advanced players (4.0 or higher) and pros, as well as singles players. Its lack of control and forgiveness won't suit beginners and even most intermediates.

Try the Power Air Invikta & get a free digital gift card with code: ADV-PICKLEHEADS

Features

Selkirk claims that the "air dynamic throat" on the Invikta is what makes it more aerodynamic. Having tested the paddle myself, I can confirm this is no marketing gimmick. It worked well in speeding up my swing speed and helping me load a lot of power and spin onto the ball.

Watch my unboxing of the Power Air Invikta:

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Design and feel

The sleek design always catches people's attention, and the materials are top-notch. This really feels and plays like a premium paddle. I found it super-lightweight on the court, thanks to its aerodynamic design. I also like how Selkirk made this edgeless, with a big playing surface and premium grip that helps justify its high price tag.

Performance

The Power Air Invikta is one of the most powerful paddles I've ever played with. It gave me so much drive on everything from serves to forehands to putaways. Spin was my next favorite thing about this paddle. The gritty face really catches the ball and gives you incredible amounts of spin on just about any shot.

However, with all that power does come a lack of forgiveness. It's easy to pop up the ball, which beginners and early intermediates will likely struggle with.

While the face does generate a ton of spin, the grit is spray-dried on and can wear down over time. Newer raw carbon paddles like the DBD and JOOLA Perseus have the texture built into the paddle face, so they'll last longer.

Value for money

This paddle is only worth the high price if you're a top-level player. It's a really well-designed paddle, but for $250, you're paying a premium for the Selkirk name. If you don't need the brand, I'd recommend the Bread & Butter Filth. It hits just as hard with way more control and forgiveness. Plus, it's 40% cheaper too.

My verdict

A trusty paddle set from the Selkirk name, with great performance for its price tag

I was surprised that I could actually generate spin and decent power with these paddles, something I've never experienced with a beginner set before. Its forgiveness levels are right up there with the best premium paddles too, which is why it's my pick for the best set.

For a budget price, you get two top-quality paddles from one of pickleball's most respected brands.

Who it suits

If you're a beginner, this set will really help you find your feet on the court. It's lightweight and easy to swing. Plus, it's very forgiving, so you won't have many mish*ts compared to a lot of other paddles.

See what makes the SLK NEO 2.0 the best set on the market

If you want something higher quality than most cheap options on Amazon, you won't do better than SLK at this price.

Features

The paddle face is made from graphite and fiberglass, multi-layered to give extra pop. The honeycomb polymer core is designed to add sturdiness and reduce vibrations, and it definitely felt solid in my play testing.

The edge guard looks well-built, so I'm confident it can protect the paddle against most dings and knocks. This is a lot more tech than I've seen in beginner sets before, especially compared to most budget brands on Amazon.

Watch my first thoughts on the SLK NEO 2.0:

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Design and feel

For a budget paddle, this looks sleek, futuristic, and premium. It comes in two neon color options: one blue and one red paddle, or one green and one purple paddle.

I loved the grip on this paddle as it felt comfy even after long sessions. I found the paddle quick in the hands, which helped during fast kitchen exchanges.

Performance

While this doesn't offer the spin and power of elite paddles, it has more than enough for a beginner-level paddle. This is down to the design quality and its "SpinFlex" textured face. Most importantly for beginners, Selkirk built in a large sweet spot, so you don't need to worry too much about mish*ts while you learn how to play.

Value for money

If you want to start playing straight away, this is my top pick for you. For $80, you get two paddles made by a top pickleball brand. I'm yet to find a better starter kit for learners.

My verdict

• Good control

• Ideal for dinks and drop shots

• Lacking power

• High vibration can aggravate injuries like tennis elbow

• Good combination of power and control

• The best option for injury prevention

• Lacking high power of heavyweight paddles

• Lacking superior touch of lightweight paddles

• Best for generating power

• Help players overcome a slow swing speed

• Less touch than lighter-weight paddles

• Extra weight can strain and aggravate the shoulder