Best $100 Pickleball Paddle for Intermediate Players

Pickleball is an exciting sport that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, played on a smaller court with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. The paddle is a crucial piece of equipment in pickleball, and finding the right one can make a significant difference in your game.

In this article, we will be discussing the best $100 pickleball paddle. A $100 price point is a sweet spot for many players as it offers a balance between affordability and quality. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. That’s why we have done the research and testing to identify the best options for you.

When choosing a pickleball paddle, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the weight of the paddle. A lighter paddle is easier to maneuver and can help you hit the ball with more speed. However, a heavier paddle can provide more power and stability. The second factor is the material of the paddle. Common materials include graphite, composite, and wood. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose one that suits your playing style.

After testing multiple options, we have identified the top $100 pickleball paddles on the market. These paddles offer a combination of quality, performance, and affordability. We spent hours testing each paddle, considering factors such as weight, grip, power, and control. Our goal is to help you find the perfect paddle to take your pickleball game to the next level.

Best Pickleball Paddles Under $100

We have researched and tested various pickleball paddles available in the market and have come up with a list of the best pickleball paddles that you can get for under $100. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, these paddles offer great value for money without compromising on quality. We have considered factors such as paddle weight, grip, and durability to ensure that you get the best bang for your buck. Check out our top picks below.

SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles | Featuring a Multilayer Fiberglass and Graphite Pickleball Paddle Face | SX3 Honeycomb Core | Pickleball Rackets Designed in The USA for Traction and Stability SLK Neo 2.0 Bundle (Red & Blue)

If you’re looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle that won’t break the bank, the SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles are an excellent choice.

Pros

• The multilayer face technology provides excellent power and control, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor play.
• The SX3 honeycomb core design offers a large sweet spot for consistent speed and a soft feel on impact.
• The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver and reduces fatigue during long gameplay intervals.

Cons

• The grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
• The included carry bag is not very sturdy and may not provide adequate protection during transport.
• Some users have reported durability issues with the paddle after extended use.

Overall, we highly recommend the SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles for anyone looking for a high-quality paddle at an affordable price. The multilayer face technology and honeycomb core design provide excellent power and control, while the lightweight construction and ultra-cushion grip make it easy to handle and comfortable to use for extended periods.

In our experience, the paddle performed well in both indoor and outdoor settings, and we were able to achieve consistent speed and accuracy with minimal effort. While the grip size may not be suitable for everyone, we found it to be comfortable and easy to hold, even during extended gameplay sessions.

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable pickleball paddle that can help take your game to the next level, the SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles are an excellent choice. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this paddle is sure to provide you with the power, control, and comfort you need to succeed on the court.

XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle – Tournament Edition – World Champion Surface Technology Options Pickleball Racket – USAPA Polypropylene Honeycomb Paddle with Cushion Comfort Grip Black

If you’re looking for a pickleball paddle that combines state-of-the-art technology with excellent ball control, the XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is a great choice.

Pros

• The carbon fiber face generates unmatched ball spin and defuses your opponents’ spin effortlessly and accurately.
• The XS28 honeycomb core is built for consistent speed using advanced polypropylene honeycomb technology, reducing the amplitude and frequency of vibrational waves, resulting in a smoother feel.
• The low-profile edge guard with high durability protects the paddle hitting surface and core against court damage, yet slim enough to reduce mishits.

Cons

• It may not be the best choice for players who prefer more control over power.
• The grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
• The price may be a bit steep for some players.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle, and we were impressed with its performance. The carbon fiber face allowed us to generate more ball spin, making it easier to control the ball and place it exactly where we wanted it. The XS28 honeycomb core also provided a smoother feel, reducing the amount of vibration we felt in our hands.

One thing we did notice was that the paddle seemed to be geared more towards power than control. While we were able to control the ball well, we found that we had to dial back our strokes a bit to avoid hitting the ball too hard. Additionally, the grip size may be a bit small for players with larger hands, so that’s something to keep in mind.

Overall, we think the XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for players who want a paddle that combines power and ball control. While it may not be the best choice for players who prefer more control over power, it’s definitely worth considering if you want to take your game to the next level.

ErPils Pickleball Paddle Set

If you’re looking for an affordable yet high-quality pickleball paddle set, the ErPils Pickleball Paddle Set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The set comes with 4 durable paddles, 4 high-performing pickleballs, 4 cooling towels, and 1 carrying bag, making it a great value for the price.
• The paddles are made of 9-ply stronger basswood, which is stronger and more durable than other 7-ply wood paddles, while still being lightweight and easy to handle.
• The wide racket area provides more sweet spots for the perfect shot, even for beginners. The stylish pattern on the paddles also adds a nice touch.

Cons

• The grip may be too small for those with larger hands.
• The paddles may not be suitable for more advanced players who require more power and precision.
• Some users have reported that the balls included in the set may not be of the highest quality.

Overall, we think the ErPils Pickleball Paddle Set is a great choice for beginners or casual players who want a high-quality set without breaking the bank. The paddles are lightweight, easy to handle, and provide a good balance of power and control. Plus, the included accessories make it easy to start playing right away.

YILLOG Pickleball Paddles

If you’re looking for a USAPA-approved pickleball set, the YILLOG Pickleball Paddles set is definitely worth considering. With a lightweight honeycomb core and a fiberglass face, these paddles offer the perfect balance of control and power. Here are the pros and cons based on our real-world experience with this product.

Pros

• The YILLOG Pickleball Set is USAPA-approved, making it suitable for official tournament play.
• The honeycomb core and fiberglass face provide the perfect balance of control and power.
• The perforated sweat-absorbent and cushioned materials of the paddle’s grip make it comfortable to hold and play with for extended periods.

Cons

• The paddles are relatively lightweight, which may take some getting used to for players accustomed to heavier paddles.
• The wide body shape of the paddle may not be ideal for players who prefer a more narrow design.
• The edge guard protection may not be as durable as some other paddles on the market.

Overall, we think the YILLOG Pickleball Paddles set is a great value for the price. With four paddles, four high-performing pickleball balls, four cooling towels, and a carrying bag, this set is perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the YILLOG Pickleball Paddles set is definitely worth checking out.

Niupipo Pickleball Paddles

We highly recommend the Niupipo Pickleball Paddles for anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable paddle.

Pros

• USAPA approved for sanctioned tournament play
• More power and less noise due to fiberglass face and polypropylene-honeycomb composition
• Less stress on elbow and shoulder due to lightweight design

Cons

• Some players may prefer a heavier paddle for more control
• Edge protection may not be sufficient for aggressive play
• Grip may not be suitable for players with larger hands

The Niupipo Pickleball Paddles are a great choice for players of all skill levels. The USAPA approval ensures that these paddles meet the highest standards for tournament play. The fiberglass face and polypropylene-honeycomb composition provide a great balance of power and control, while also dampening the sound of each hit. The lightweight design reduces stress on the elbow and shoulder, allowing for longer play sessions.

One potential downside is that some players may prefer a heavier paddle for more control. Additionally, the edge protection may not be sufficient for aggressive play, and the grip may not be suitable for players with larger hands. However, these minor issues do not detract from the overall quality and value of these paddles.

In conclusion, the Niupipo Pickleball Paddles are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable paddle. The combination of power, control, and comfort make these paddles a great investment for players of all skill levels.

ONIX Graphite Z5 Graphite Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles with Cushion Comfort Pickleball Paddle Grip – USA Pickleball Approved Blue Paddle

If you’re looking for a pickleball paddle that offers superior ball control and touch, the ONIX Graphite Z5 is an excellent choice. With its graphite face and nomex core, this paddle is lightweight yet powerful, striking the perfect balance between speed and power. The Z5’s Widebody shape also ensures a large sweet spot, making it a great choice for players of all levels.

Pros

• Mimics the handle shape of a tennis racket, providing great spin and control during play.
• Perfect for players striving for amazing ball control of a nomex paddle in a medium-weight graphite paddle.
• Meets and is approved by USAPA and USA Pickleball requirements, making it acceptable for all official tournament play.

Cons

• Some players may find the tape on the handle comes off too easily.
• May be a bit pricey for beginners just starting out.
• The paddle’s sound may be a bit louder than some softer faced paddles.

We highly recommend the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle for players looking for superior ball control and touch. With its graphite face, nomex core, and Widebody shape, this paddle strikes the perfect balance between power and speed. Plus, the tennis racket handle shape provides great spin and control during play. However, some players may find the tape on the handle comes off too easily, and the paddle may be a bit pricey for beginners just starting out. Overall, the Z5 is a great choice for players of all levels looking to improve their game.

In terms of construction and durability, the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is well-made and built to last. The graphite face and nomex core provide superior feel of the ball, while the racquet’s medium-weight of 7.5-8.2 ounces makes it easy to handle. The Z5 also meets and is approved by USAPA and USA Pickleball requirements, making it acceptable for all official tournament play.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tape on the handle may come off too easily for some players. Additionally, the paddle’s sound may be a bit louder than some softer faced paddles. However, these minor drawbacks are far outweighed by the Z5’s many benefits, including its superior ball control and touch, and its ability to strike the perfect balance between power and speed.

Overall, we highly recommend the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle for players of all levels looking to improve their game. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out, or an advanced player looking to take your game to the next level, the Z5 is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.

Buying Guide

When choosing a pickleball paddle, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind when shopping for a $100 pickleball paddle:

Weight

The weight of the paddle is an important factor to consider. Generally, a lighter paddle is easier to maneuver and can help reduce fatigue during long matches. However, a heavier paddle can provide more power and stability. It’s important to find the right balance for your play style and physical abilities.

Grip Size

The grip size of the paddle is another important factor. A grip that is too small or too large can cause discomfort and affect your performance on the court. It’s recommended to test out different grip sizes to find the one that feels most comfortable for you.

Material

Pickleball paddles can be made from a variety of materials, each with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Common materials include wood, composite, and graphite. Wood paddles are durable and affordable, but can be heavier and less responsive than other materials. Composite paddles are lightweight and offer a good balance of power and control. Graphite paddles are the most expensive option, but also the most lightweight and responsive.

Shape

Pickleball paddles come in a variety of shapes, including oval, teardrop, and rectangular. The shape of the paddle can affect its balance, sweet spot, and overall performance. It’s important to choose a shape that feels comfortable and natural for your play style.

By considering these factors, you can find the best $100 pickleball paddle for your needs. Remember to test out different options and find a paddle that feels comfortable and responsive on the court.