Can You Find a Great, Cheap Pickleball Paddle Under $50? 3 Things To Know
When I started playing pickleball, I wanted to find the best pickleball paddles under $50. So, I purchased around 20 budget paddles and tried to understand the differences between different budget paddles. Here are 3 things to know about great, affordable pickleball paddles.
1. There Are Differences Between The Best Budget Paddles
One of the biggest things to know about the 6 best budget pickleball paddles is that many of them have a carbon fiber surface.
I will chat more below about the pickleball paddle material, but it’s important to understand that I have so many paddles that I would not want to play with that paddle again. For example, let me tell you a story.
I played a friend who I’d say is in the DUPR 4.0-4.5 rating range, and he beat me 3 times when I played with a $200+ pickleball paddle. When I switched to the best budget paddle listed above which is under $35, I won the 4th game 11-3. Here’s a picture of the paddle that you can learn more about above.
That said, I have some other budget paddles that are just plain terrible, so there’s a huge difference between budget paddles.
2. Understand Pickleball Paddle Materials
The pickleball paddle materials make a huge difference.
I didn’t think about it much at first, but as I got more into the game, it became clear that the paddle’s feel, control, and power are heavily influenced by the material it’s made from.
Carbon Fiber:
This is my favorite. It’s lightweight and gives you great control over your shots. I’ve found that it’s perfect for players who like precision and finesse. Many of the best players I know swear by carbon fiber paddles.
Graphite:
These are popular for a reason. They’re strong but lightweight, allowing you to generate power without sacrificing control. If you like to play fast but still want control, graphite paddles are a great choice.
Composite:
If you’re looking for something in between, composite paddles offer a balance. They combine different materials to give you both power and spin. It’s a good middle-ground if you can’t decide between control and power.
I suggest trying out paddles made from different materials. You’ll notice how each feels different during play, and that can help you figure out which one suits your style best.
3. Read Actual Reviews
Reading reviews helped me a lot when I was unsure about a paddle. But don’t just skim through them. Look for detailed feedback from players who have been in the game for a while. I always search for reviews that talk about specific features like the grip size, weight, and how the paddle performs over time.
I like to read longer reviews because it generally means that the person may have liked the paddle long enough to write a longer review.
Here’s what I focus on when I read reviews:
Durability:
Does the paddle hold up after months of play? Some paddles start strong but wear down fast.
I had one paddle that started getting knicks soon after I played with it.
Control & Spin:
If you’re like me and enjoy playing a more strategic game, see what others say about control and spin. Some paddles offer way more of this than others.
For example, my carbon fiber paddles often produce more control than fiberglass, graphite and wood paddles.
Weight:
A paddle’s weight can change everything. I prefer lighter paddles for quick movements, but some players like heavier ones for more power.
That said, you may prefer heavier paddles.
Comfort:
Check for mentions of grip comfort and size. My hands get sore with grips that are too small or stiff, so finding a comfortable paddle is key.
Don’t rush the process. I read a ton of reviews before settling on my current paddle, and it made all the difference in my game. Sometimes, even the most expensive paddle isn’t the best for you.
Conclusion
Your pickleball gear, specifically your pickleball paddle may be one of the most important things when playing pickleball.
It’s the most expensive item apart from potentially your pickleball shoes, but it can change the dynamic of your pickleball game. Hopefully, these 3 things help you make the most informed decision.
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