Best Pickleball Paddles Under $60 – Budget-Friendly Picks for Every Player
Introduction
Pickleball is an exciting and fast-growing sport that continues to attract new players every day. But while the game is fun and engaging, the cost of equipment can sometimes be a barrier. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a quality pickleball paddle. There are plenty of high-performing pickleball paddles under $60 that offer durability, comfort, and excellent gameplay—perfect for beginners, recreational players, or those on a budget.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best pickleball paddles under $60, highlight the features that matter most, and help you find the best value for your money. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a backup paddle, we’ve got the best affordable options to help you step up your game.
For more pickleball equipment reviews and playing tips, check out Pickleball Court Near Me.
Why Choose a Pickleball Paddle Under $60?
Just because a paddle is budget-friendly doesn’t mean it won’t perform well. Many affordable paddles offer great quality and durability while keeping costs low. Here’s why you should consider a pickleball paddle under $60:
1. Affordable Entry into the Sport
- If you’re new to pickleball, a paddle under $60 allows you to start playing without a huge financial commitment.
2. Great for Casual and Recreational Play
- Budget paddles are perfect for weekend games, casual matches, and players who don’t need professional-grade equipment.
3. Durable and Long-Lasting
- Many of these paddles use polymer cores, composite faces, or graphite surfaces, making them strong enough to last multiple seasons of play.
4. Lightweight and Easy to Handle
- Many affordable paddles are lightweight, offering better control and maneuverability for beginners and intermediate players.
5. Backup or Practice Paddle
- Even experienced players can benefit from having a second paddle on hand for practice or as a backup.
Key Features to Look for in a Budget Pickleball Paddle
Before purchasing a pickleball paddle under $60, it’s important to know what features matter most. Here’s what to look for:
1. Core Material
The core of a paddle affects its feel, power, and durability. Budget paddles usually come with:
- Polymer Honeycomb Core – The most common and offers a balance of power and control.
- Nomex Core – Stiffer and provides more power but may be slightly noisier.
2. Paddle Face Material
- Graphite or Carbon Fiber – Lightweight and provides better touch and control (rare in paddles under $60).
- Composite (Fiberglass) – A great alternative that offers power and durability.
- Wood – Heavier but extremely affordable, great for beginners.
3. Weight
Pickleball paddles typically range from 7.0 oz to 8.5 oz. Lighter paddles allow for faster swings, while heavier paddles offer more power.
4. Grip Size and Comfort
- Standard Grip Size (4.25″) – Fits most players and offers good control.
- Comfort Grip – Look for cushioned, sweat-absorbent grips to reduce fatigue.
5. Edge Guard
A protective edge guard helps prolong paddle lifespan by preventing damage from accidental drops.
Best Pickleball Paddles Under $60 – Top Picks
Here are our top recommendations for budget-friendly pickleball paddles that provide excellent value and performance:
1. Niupipo Pickleball Paddle – Graphite Face
💰 Price Range: $50 – $60
Key Features:
- Lightweight design (7.6 oz) for easy maneuverability.
- Graphite face with a polymer honeycomb core for better control.
- Comfortable cushion grip with sweat absorption.
- Edge guard to prevent damage.
✅ Pros:
✔️ Excellent balance of control and power.
✔️ Lightweight and easy to handle.
✔️ USAPA-approved for tournament play.
❌ Cons:
❌ Less powerful than heavier paddles.
Best For:
Beginners and intermediate players who want a lightweight, maneuverable paddle at an affordable price.
2. Rally Flare Composite Pickleball Paddle
💰 Price Range: $45 – $55
Key Features:
- Fiberglass composite face for extra power.
- Polymer honeycomb core for quiet play.
- Medium weight (7.9 oz) for a mix of power and control.
- Ultra-durable edge guard to prevent wear.
✅ Pros:
✔️ Offers great durability for its price.
✔️ Fiberglass face generates extra spin.
✔️ Well-balanced weight for all-around performance.
❌ Cons:
❌ Grip may be too thick for some players.
Best For:
Recreational and intermediate players looking for a powerful yet affordable paddle.
3. Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Paddle Set (2 Paddles)
💰 Price Range: $50 – $60 (Set of 2)
Key Features:
- Includes 2 paddles, 4 balls, and a carry bag.
- Lightweight composite construction for durability.
- Cushion grip with sweat-resistant technology.
- Polymer honeycomb core for softer touch and control.
✅ Pros:
✔️ Great value for money (two paddles at one low price).
✔️ Comes with balls and a carry bag.
✔️ Comfortable grip for long matches.
❌ Cons:
❌ Paddles are slightly heavier than others in this price range.
Best For:
Beginners or families looking for an affordable two-paddle set with all necessary accessories.
4. Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – X-40 Series
💰 Price Range: $40 – $55
Key Features:
- Graphite face with honeycomb core for excellent durability.
- Textured surface helps add spin to shots.
- Cushioned grip for better handling.
- Midweight (7.8 oz) for good power and control.
✅ Pros:
✔️ Graphite surface improves responsiveness.
✔️ Comfortable grip for extended play.
✔️ Well-balanced for all skill levels.
❌ Cons:
❌ Slightly less durable than higher-end paddles.
Best For:
Players looking for a well-rounded paddle under $60 with a good mix of power and control.
5. ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle (Budget Version)
💰 Price Range: $55 – $60
Key Features:
- Graphite surface with a Nomex honeycomb core.
- Oversized paddle face for a larger sweet spot.
- Midweight (8.2 oz) for added power.
- Comfortable cushioned grip.
✅ Pros:
✔️ Large sweet spot for better accuracy.
✔️ Graphite face offers excellent touch and feel.
✔️ One of the best paddles for control in this price range.
❌ Cons:
❌ Slightly heavier than other budget paddles.
Best For:
Players who want a graphite paddle under $60 with great accuracy and a large sweet spot.
Comparison Table: Best Pickleball Paddles Under $60
| Paddle | Face Material | Core | Weight | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Niupipo Graphite Paddle | Graphite | Polymer Honeycomb | 7.6 oz | $50 – $60 | Beginners, control |
| Rally Flare Composite Paddle | Fiberglass | Polymer Honeycomb | 7.9 oz | $45 – $55 | Power & spin |
| Amazin’ Aces 2-Paddle Set | Composite | Polymer Honeycomb | 8.1 oz | $50 – $60 | Families, beginners |
| Franklin X-40 Paddle | Graphite | Polymer Honeycomb | 7.8 oz | $40 – $55 | All-around play |
| ONIX Z5 Graphite (Budget) | Graphite | Nomex Honeycomb | 8.2 oz | $55 – $60 | Accuracy & control |
Conclusion
You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to get a high-quality pickleball paddle. The best pickleball paddles under $60 provide excellent performance for beginners, recreational players, and budget-conscious competitors.
Whether you’re looking for a lightweight graphite paddle for better control, a fiberglass paddle for extra power, or a two-paddle set for family fun, this guide has something for you.
Check out Pickleball Court Near Me for more gear reviews, pickleball tips, and playing strategies to take your game to the next level. Happy playing!