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Best portable pickleball nets in 2024 - top 7 compared

picture of Brandon Mackie
Brandon Mackie

Updated on: Sep 24, 2023

Two of the best portable pickleball nets in 2024: the the Dominator Rolling Portable Pickleball Net on a blue background

Looking for the best portable pickleball net to set up your game? With a quality portable net, you can play pickleball on a tennis court, basketball court, or any flat surface with enough space. Over 75% of courts on Pickleheads don’t have permanent nets, so you'll likely need to bring your own.

Portable nets can be a big investment and a hassle to assemble if they’re not designed well. To help you get on the courts, I tested the top portable picklebal nets and scored them on durability, ease of use, portability, and overall value. Read on to see my best portable pickleball nets in 2024:

Quick list

Best overall

Photo of the SwiftNet 2.1 pickleball net

Our Rating:

1. SwiftNet 2.1

The SwiftNet 2.1 takes the top spot because it's the fastest net to assemble and the lightest, which makes it a breeze to carry around and get playing quickly.
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Read my deep dive

Best cheap

Photo of the ZENY Portable Pickleball Net Set System

Our Rating:

2. ZENY Portable Pickleball Net Set System

If you're on a budget, the ZENY Portable Pickleball Net offers a full-size net that's easy to set up and light enough to sling over your shoulder.

Best on wheels

Photo of the OnCourt OffCourt PickleNet Deluxe pickleball net

Our Rating:

3. OnCourt OffCourt PickleNet Deluxe

The super portable PickleNet Deluxe packs away into a neat bag, able to be rolled on and off the court. It's great for facility owners who want portable nets on-site.
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Most durable

Photo of the Dominator Rolling Portable Pickleball Net

Our Rating:

4. Dominator Rolling Portable Pickleball Net

The Dominator portable net is made from rust-proof aluminum and has a lifetime warranty. This is one net you can leave outdoors and not think about.
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Most adjustable

Photo of the A11N Pro portable pickleball net

Our Rating:

5. A11N Pro Pickleball Net

The pick if you're concerned about net tension. The A11N Pro net glides around on 6 wheels and solves the problem of sagging nets with its hand-winch tensioner.

Easiest to set up

Photo of the JOOLA Symmetry portable pickleball net

Our Rating:

6. JOOLA Symmetry

The JOOLA Symmetry offers a full-size net that can be assembled in under 5 minutes. It's right up there with the SwiftNet 2.1 in assembly speed.

The best portable pickleball nets in 2024

Why should you trust Pickleheads? I spend hours testing every product I recommend. Only the cream of the crop makes it onto my lists, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Learn more about how I test and review products.

Read on for a deeper look into each of my favorite portable nets:

Best overall

1. SwiftNet 2.1

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The quickest net to assemble so you can get playing faster
8/10

Durability

9/10

Ease of use

10/10

Portability

Buy if:

  • You want less time assembling and more time playing:

    the SwiftNet is the quickest and easiest net I've ever tested.

  • You want a super lightweight net:

    at only 17 lbs, this net is the lightest on my list and super easy to carry around.

  • You want a net that will last:

    the materials are lightweight but super high-quality, meaning this net can hold up over years of play.

Pass if:

  • You're on a tight budget:

    for a more affordable net, check out the ZENY on this list. For a very similar net that's $50 cheaper, see the JOOLA Symmetry.

  • You want a more 'semi-permanent' net that can be left outside all season:

    check out the bulkier Dominator or the A11 Pro nets on this list.

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Weight

17 lbs

Wheels

No

Carry Bag

Yes, with long straps

Dimensions

22' wide, 36" at posts, and 34" high

Indoor Or Outdoor

Both

Frame

Aluminum

The SwiftNet 2.1 is easily the lightest and easiest net to set up of any I've tested.
You can easily carry it around and get playing on the courts faster than any other on this list. I've managed to assemble it on my own in a few minutes. Once packed away, it weighs the same as a light backpack.
Despite the lightweight build, it's surprisingly sturdy and consistent across many hours of play. The SwiftNet 2.1 really is the best net money can buy.
Who it suits
If you're looking for a high-performance, lightweight portable net system that can withstand tough play, try the SwiftNet 2.1. I'd recommend this if you've struggled with hard-to-assemble nets in the past or nets that are too bulky to carry around.
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Features
The SwiftNet uses a unique design to achieve its regulation height and width. Rather than a metal frame and elasticated net like many others, it uses lightweight aluminum uprights that sit on splayed, carbon fiber feet.
A carbon fiber boom (a little like a tent pole) is then strung through the net, and attached at each end to the uprights.
The whole net suddenly firms up when you bend the boom down and strap it to the bottom middle of the net, creating a strong arch shape. Just pull the cords on the top line of the net and you have a reliably taut net at the perfect playing height.
Design and feel
This net feels premium and reminds me of a really nice tent. The aluminum uprights are lightweight but strong. The carbon fiber actually comes from recycled aeronautical components sourced from Washington State.
Being so lightweight, the net can move around in windy conditions, but this is easily fixed by placing a sandbag or anything heavy on the legs. once or twice, the Phoenix wind gave my net trouble. This is definitely a tradeoff with the light, portable design.
Performance
This net proves that a good design can mean you don't need heavy materials. Despite the lightweight components, my net has held up after now many hours on the courts.
The flexibility of the carbon fiber means it'll bend rather than break under strain, and spring back into shape. The arch-shaped boom provides consistent tension, which is one of my biggest complaints about portable nets. I find that it reacts more like a permanent net when balls hit it.
The simplistic design means fewer poles, straps, and attachments to slow down assembly or to get in the way of your shots during a game. The company claims it can be assembled in three minutes, and it takes me just under five minutes on average.
Value for money
The SwiftNet doesn't come cheap, but for $369.99, you get a really well-designed portable net that comes with a one-year warranty. Plus, you're contributing to an awesome recycling project that keeps carbon fiber out of landfills.
star icon
My verdict
The SwiftNet 2.1 takes my top position in 2024. There's simply no other net that's as portable, easy to use, or fast to assemble. If you'd rather spend time playing pickleball than assembling nets, this net is a great option. It's not the cheapest on the list or the best in weather, but it's well worth the investment.

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Best cheap

2. ZENY Portable Pickleball Net Set System

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A lightweight portable pickleball net for under $80
6/10

Durability

7/10

Ease of use

9/10

Portability

Buy if:

  • You're on a budget:

    the ZENY is a full-size, user-friendly net for a great price.

  • You're new to pickleball:

    if you're just learning pickleball, you probably won't want to spend much—and this one comes with a great entry price.

  • You plan to carry your net over long distances:

    at only 18 lbs, this net won't wear you out when carrying it around.

Pass if:

  • You plan to play in gusty conditions:

    this lightweight net will blow over if not weighed down.

  • You want to leave the net assembled:

    this won't stand up to the elements for long.

  • You have $200 to spend:

    for an extra $100, you can get an upgrade in quality and durability with the PickleNet.

Weight

18 lbs

Wheels

No

Carry Bag

Yes

Dimensions

22' wide, 36" at posts, and 34" in the middle

Indoor Or Outdoor

Both

Frame

Steel alloy

This is the net you buy when you want to quickly set up a court without spending a fortune. When it comes to the quality-to-price ratio, this one can't be beaten in my opinion.
The ZENY is very similar to the PickleNet Classic (my favorite net under $200), with all the same features and a near-identical design. However, it's only a third of the price.
Who it suits
I included this for players on a budget, as not everyone wants to spend $100s on a portable net. This one is great for casual backyard or driveway use. Coaches and pickleball organizers who need to keep a few spare nets around will also get a lot out of it.
It's great for getting younger players into pickleball, like at a school or summer camp. Basically, anywhere you need a cheap pop-up net, the ZENY is a great option.
Features
The ZENY net is made from a durable material (tetoron polyester fiber) and uses velcro straps at each end to keep it taut. Plus, a fiberglass rod runs inside a pocket to create rigidity in the middle of the net.
Velcro straps do an okay job of keeping the net taut, but you'll definitely be able to tell a difference over permanent nets.
The steel tubing is powder-coated and reinforced at the weak points. However, unlike with the PickleNet, this steel isn't oval-shaped, so it doesn't have quite the same durability. The ZENY also uses a push-lock system, which can be trickier to assemble and disassemble.
Design and feel
Despite the budget price tag, this net doesn't feel all that cheap. While the tubing isn't oval, it is 25 mm thick and reinforced at the weak points.
The net is lightweight, bringing down the overall bulkiness of the unit, so it's easier to carry. The bag it comes in is a little flimsy but still does a decent job.
Performance
Considering it's only $80, I really can't fault the ZENY's court performance. It does exactly what you need it to do. The setup is a little trickier than some, but I find it straightforward enough.
All the components are numbered and the instructions are clear. The net is kept taut by the adjustable straps, and supported by the middle pole.
Once assembled, you have a full-size net that's pretty solid and reliable. While it did fall over a couple of times for me in high winds, this can be easily fixed with some sandbags over the legs.
Value for money
At just under $80, this net is a real bargain. The materials may be a little lower quality than my top pick (the SwiftNet 2.1), but the ZENY offers what many others charge twice as much for.
star icon
My verdict
For a budget option, the ZENY doesn't feel cheap. It offers excellent usability and packs away to a neat size and weight. If you're just getting into pickleball and don't want to spend over $100 on a net, the ZENY is the best option I can recommend.

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Best on wheels

3. OnCourt OffCourt PickleNet Deluxe

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A durable, portable net that moves around effortlessly on wheels
8/10

Durability

9/10

Ease of use

7/10

Portability

Buy if:

  • You want a net that's portable even when fully assembled:

    this can be easily moved around to clear the space.

  • You want a strongly built net:

    the chunky metal frame and thick net material help it hold up even outdoors.

  • You want a heavy-duty net that can still be transported easily:

    the wheeled bag makes this net easy to move around.

Pass if:

  • You want a lightweight net:

    check out the SwiftNet 2.1 for a lighter option, or the ZENY if you're on a budget.

  • You're on a budget:

    this is the most expensive net on my list.

  • You're buying for personal use:

    wheels are likely unnecessary if you just want a net to set up and take down at your local courts.

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Weight

42 lbs

Wheels

Yes

Carry Bag

Yes

Dimensions

22' wide, 36" at posts, and 34" high

Indoor Or Outdoor

Both

Frame

Hybrid steel and aluminum oval tubing

The PickleNet Deluxe is the sturdiest and best-built wheeled net on the market in 2024. It's a great option if you're a facility owner and want to offer pickleball at your space. My fellow co-founder at Pickleheads, Max Ade, uses this one at his home court and swears by it.
Who it suits
If you use your pickleball net in a space that you sometimes need for other uses, you'll get a lot out of this net.
When fully assembled, it can be rolled along on its sturdy casters. These then lock into position to stop it rolling around when parked up. It works great for gyms, driveways, and open play sessions.
Features
The PickleNet Deluxe is a heavy-duty net system, with 1.5" by 3" metal tubing that's oval-shaped to prevent bending and twisting. This makes it strong and sturdy—great for tougher outdoor conditions.
Velcro tensioning straps on the top band allow you to keep your net from sagging in the middle.
The five 4" locking casters mean you can move the fully assembled net on and off the playing area with no disassembly, quickly freeing up the space.
Max Ade with the OnCourt OffCourt PickleNet Deluxe pickleball net
Max Ade with the OnCourt OffCourt PickleNet Deluxe pickleball net
Design and feel
This whole net assembly feels solid and well-built. The main frame elements are made from heavy steel, with other, non-loadbearing parts made from aluminum to reduce the weight. That said, it isn't light (42 lbs in total).
The steel used is also oval. This gives the net extra strength and also helps when you're pushing it around on its wheels.
The carry bag it comes in is divided into compartments. I love this feature as it keeps the various elements from shifting around during transit. The bag also has built-in wheels to make what could be a bulky unit much easier to move about.
Performance
You'll soon see why this net system is so popular once you get it set up on your court space. The whole assembly is high-quality and carefully designed.
The frame is powder-coated for protection. The velcro tensioning system means you can keep your net taut, and balls can roll under it which saves time collecting them after each point.
The casters are strong and lockable, but also gentle on wooden surfaces. Overall, this net glides around smoothly—not like a crummy cart you might find at the grocery store.
Value for money
At $460, this portable net system is expensive, but the materials used are top quality and the whole assembly is super easy to use. If you're hosting open plays or offering pickleball at your space, it's well worth the investment.
star icon
My verdict
The PickleNet Deluxe from OnCourt OffCourt is easily the best portable net on wheels. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants a solid net that can be rolled around when needed. It's perfect for mixed-use facilities and anyone organizing open play sessions.

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Most durable

4. Dominator Rolling Portable Pickleball Net

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A portable net with built-in wheels that can stand up to plenty of use
9/10

Durability

8/10

Ease of use

8/10

Portability

Buy if:

  • You want a heavy-duty net that'll last:

    think of this as a long-term investment.

  • You play outdoors in very sunny or wet conditions:

    this net is built to withstand harsh weather.

  • You want a net with wheels:

    the Dominator can be easily pushed around the court and out of the way when not in use.

Pass if:

  • You're on a budget:

    check out the ZENY for a great portable net under $80.

  • You play mainly indoors:

    I'd recommend the SwiftNet or PickleNet instead.

  • You want something lightweight:

    again, the SwiftNet is a better bet here, weighing half what the Dominator does.

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Weight

35 lbs

Wheels

Yes

Carry Bag

Yes, with wheels

Dimensions

22' wide, 36" at posts, and 34" high

Indoor Or Outdoor

Both, but built for outdoor use

Frame

6061 T6 aluminum

If you're worried about leaving your portable net outdoors, give the Dominator a look. I chose the Dominator net as the most durable portable net because it's built to withstand the elements and has a lifetime warranty. Plus, I love that it has wheels.
Who it suits
This net is ideal for anyone who wants to leave their net outside without worrying about sun or rain damage.
It's also super handy to roll around. It can be pushed against a wall when not in use, making it ideal for front yards or driveways.
Features
While this is the third net on my list to use aluminum (the SwiftNet has aluminum poles), it's the only one with an entirely aluminum frame. This makes it totally rust-proof, so you'll never have to replace elements down the line.
The Dominator uses a simple assembly system of rectangular segments that takes minutes to set up. It has a high-quality, hard-wearing net, and easy-to-use velcro straps for tightening the net.
Design and feel
This net system is pretty heavy-duty, with the wheels and strong frame adding extra weight. However, once assembled, it moves around easily on its wheels.
Even better, once it's all packed away, you can easily transport it to and from the courts using the wheelie bag.
Performance
The Dominator net is a simple piece of kit to use. All the parts are numbered for ease of assembly and they pack away neatly into the carry bag.
The wheels make this a breeze to roll around the court, despite its 35 lb total weight. The rust-proof frame and durable net are perfect for outdoor clubs and courts.
Value for money
At nearly $400, this net doesn't come cheap, but thankfully you won't need to buy a replacement any time soon. You might want something a little cheaper if you're a casual player, but you won't find a better option than the Dominator for prolonged outdoor use.
star icon
My verdict
This is marketed as a "long-term investment" and I agree. The Dominator net won't need replacing for a long time, even if you leave it out in the elements. Its rust-proof materials and lifetime warranty mean this is one net you can safely leave outdoors. The wheels are a big bonus too.

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Most adjustable

5. A11N Pro Pickleball Net

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A sturdily-built net that easily rolls on and off the court, with a handy net tensioning system
9/10

Durability

7/10

Ease of use

7/10

Portability

Buy if:

  • You like to keep your net super taut:

    the built-in crank means you never have to worry about your net sagging again.

  • You want to move your net around on the court:

    this comes with 6 caster wheels that allow it to glide on and off the court.

  • You want to leave your net outdoors:

    this is a heavy-duty net, built for tough conditions.

Pass if:

  • You need to carry your portable net around:

    this one weighs over 40 lbs and doesn't have a wheeled carrying case like the PickleNet Deluxe.

  • You want a net that can be set up and taken down quickly:

    this takes quite a bit of assembling, but can be rolled out of the way when not in use.

  • You're new to pickleball:

    this is probably overkill if you're just trying pickleball out, so try the ZENY for a budget net.

Weight

40 lbs

Wheels

Yes, caster wheels

Carry Bag

Yes

Dimensions

22' wide, 36" high at sidelines, and 34" tall at the center

Indoor Or Outdoor

Both

Frame

Powder coated metal

If you've had issues with sagging portable nets before, you'll like this one. I picked the A11N Pro net as it's the only portable net I've found with a crank system. It's also solidly built, has 6 locking caster wheels, and costs just $200.
Who it suits
If you get frustrated with sagging nets, you'll really appreciate the hand crank system on the A11N Pro.
Also, if you want to leave your net up over long periods of time but move it out of the way when not in use, you'll like how easy it is to roll around, despite its heavy-duty build. Great for backyards, driveways, or basement courts.
Features
The A11N Pro is built with a heavy-duty, powdered-coated frame. It's got extra wide legs and a unique "bent" frame. These add to its stability and strength, making it perfect for windy conditions.
Just in case the wind becomes an issue, the net comes with sandbags to add extra weight. This was a nice bonus to see when I unboxed it.
The frame has 6 built-in, locking wheels, which let you move the net out of the way when not in use. This is ideal if you need a net for the driveway, gym, or backyard.
Design and feel
Despite its affordable price tag, this net feels sturdily built and of professional quality.
Admittedly, it does take me some time and tools to get it assembled and taken apart. However, once it's up, it's adjustable, adaptable, and can withstand plenty of hours of play.
Performance
The winch, or crank system, allows you to really tighten up your net to the standard of a permanent net. Having this winch also takes away the need for a center post, which can sometimes obstruct play. This net is the closest you can get to permanent net tension.
The metal frame is reinforced at the corners to stop the uprights from bending under the tension of the net.
Value for money
At only $200, this is great value for money. It also comes with a 12-month guarantee.
star icon
My verdict
If you get frustrated by saggy portable net, I'd recommend checking out the A11N Pro portable net. It's well built, designed not to bend in windy conditions, and great at staying taut. It's a little bulky and complicated to assemble, but once it's up, it glides around easily on its wheels.

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Easiest to set up

6. JOOLA Symmetry

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Easy to assemble and carry around with you
7/10

Durability

9/10

Ease of use

8/10

Portability

Buy if:

  • You're looking for something easy to set up:

    with only 5 components, this takes under 5 minutes to put together.

  • You want a net that can easily be carried around:

    this weighs just 27.5 lbs when packed away.

  • You're a JOOLA fan:

    this net is designed well, just like their paddles and pickleballs.

Pass if:

  • You want a net that can stay assembled over periods of time:

    this is more of a pop-up temporary option, so try the A11N Pro or Dominator instead.

  • You're on a tight budget:

    check out the ZENY or A11N Pro for more affordable options.

  • You want to leave your net outdoors:

    you'll prefer the Dominator, which holds up much better when left in the elements.

Weight

27.5 lbs

Wheels

No

Carry Bag

Yes

Dimensions

22' wide, 36" at posts, and 34" high

Indoor Or Outdoor

Both

Frame

Aluminum

If you want a portable net that's super easy and quick to assemble, this is the one. I picked the JOOLA Symmetry portable net because it's a new competitor to my favorite pick, the SwiftNet 2.1. It has almost the same design, and I find the setup time is just as fast as with the SwiftNet.
Who it suits
This net is designed for those who want more time playing and less time assembling (and who doesn't want that?). It's lightweight enough to be slung over your shoulder and carried to the park. If you want a version of the SwiftNet that's $50 cheaper, this one is worth considering.
Features
Like the SwiftNet, this one uses lightweight aluminum posts with a long carbon pole spanning the net which bends to create the necessary tension.
The net here is heavier duty than the SwiftNet, which adds to the overall weight of the unit and may make it stronger.
Design and feel
The Symmetry is a little bulkier, and not quite as premium as the SwiftNet. It does come in a neat carry bag, though.
While it's quick to set up, I need someone else to help me, whereas I can assemble the SwiftNet myself. Keep that in mind if you're going to be setting this net up solo.
Performance
The extra weight here means it can perform better in windy conditions without the need for sandbags.
The boom system means the net stays taut without the need for velcro or cord tensioners. Plus, the fact that it's flexible and light means it can be safely picked up by two people and moved out of the way if necessary.
Value for money
At $320, this net isn't cheap, but think of all the time you'll gain on the court rather than fiddling around with assembly.
star icon
My verdict
The Symmetry is basically JOOLA's version of the SwiftNet. While it's not quite as refined, it sets up quickly and it costs $50 less. It's a new product with few reviews, but I think it has the potential to rival the SwiftNet. It's a great bet if you want a net that's super simple to set up.

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Best under $200

7. PickleNet Portable Pickleball Net System

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A tried and tested favorite that's easy to use, durable, and dependable
9/10

Durability

8/10

Ease of use

7/10

Portability

Buy if:

  • Your budget is $200:

    this is the best net I've tested at this price point, and my favorite mid-range option.

  • You want an easy-to-assemble net:

    while it's not as fast to assemble as the SwiftNet, it's still super quick and easy.

  • You want a net that stands up to tough outdoor play:

    the oval tubing prevents twisting, while the whole frame is coated to protect against knocks.

Pass if:

  • You prioritize lightness:

    this one weighs 32 lbs when packed up. For a lighter (and cheaper) option, try the ZENY on this list.

  • You want to wheel your net around:

    for the wheeled version of this net, check out the PickleNet Deluxe.

  • You can spend over $200:

    the upgrades in portability and assembly time make the SwiftNet 2.1 worth its premium.

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Weight

32 lbs

Wheels

None

Carry Bag

Yes

Dimensions

22' wide, 36" at posts, and 34" in the middle

Indoor Or Outdoor

Both (storage indoor recommended)

Frame

Oval, powder-coated steel

The classic PickleNet is the best portable net you can get for under $200. Its improved oval tubing makes it super-sturdy and resilient against twisting, but it's also easy to assemble and keeps its tension over time.
This is the official net of USA Pickleball. I think they picked it because it gives you a bit of everything: portability, easy assembly, and durability—all at a great price.
Who it suits
This net is the perfect all-rounder for anyone looking for a regulation-size portable net at an affordable price. The low price tag means players of any skill level and budget can enjoy it. It's very popular with pickleball clubs, schools, and rec centers.
Features
This net has been around forever and, after many iterations, it's one of the most useful and well-built portable nets in 2024.
One recent innovation is the unique oval shape for all the load-bearing metal components. This strengthens the frame to prevent twisting or bending in windy conditions. Plus, it helps to avoid net sag.
The net is further supported by a velcro tension system that maintains its regulation height.
Design and feel
Straight out of the bag, it's clear this net was developed on the courts. The whole system is user-friendly and built to stand up to plenty of use.
The heavy-duty carry bag has separate compartments to keep the 15 components secure during storage or transit. The steel tubes are powder-coated to protect them from scratches and rust, and the net is a super-strong nylon that's almost impossible to rip.
In the center of the net is a center post to help keep the net at regulation height.
Performance
This net is super quick and easy to assemble, taking me less than 10 minutes on average. Once assembled, you've got a full, regulation-sized net.
The clever oval tubing of the frame makes this net really strong. Not only that, it makes it easier to assemble and disassemble since there's no need for locking buttons.
The sturdy velcro strap tensioning system means you get a consistent net height that won't start to sag mid-game.
Value for money
This net isn't the cheapest on my list (just under $190), but it's well-built and has been a trusted net among players across the US for years.
star icon
My verdict
This one had to make it onto my list because it offers everything a portable pickleball net should: usability, portability, and durability—all at an affordable price for the quality. This is great value for money, and my top recommendation if you're shopping in the mid-range for a portable net.

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How to choose the best portable pickleball net system

It's easy to be overwhelmed with options when choosing the right portable pickleball net. So, I've created a simple checklist to help you narrow down the choices and make sure you get the right one for your needs.

Photo of a pickleball net on an outdoor pickleball court

Height and size

The net should be 22' wide, overlapping the 20' court on either side so that the posts aren't on the court itself. Pickleball net height is meant to be 36" high at the sideline and 34" at the center of the court.

Ease of assembly

You don't want to spend half your session setting up a net. So, choose a net that's easy to assemble and requires no tools.

Weight

Think about how you'll be transporting the net, and whether you need to carry it over long distances. Look for a net that's lightweight enough to be easily carried by one or two people.

Frame and feet design

Oval-shaped frames and scissor feet of nets are designed to provide maximum stability during play. The scissor feet also allow you to adjust the net height quickly and easily.

For indoor play, make sure there are rubber pads on the feet to prevent any damage to the flooring.

Extras

Some nets come with paddles, balls, or other pickleball accessories. These aren't always necessary but can add a little more value to the package—especially for new players.

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Net tightening mechanism

Different nets have different mechanisms for changing tension. Bungee cords, velcro straps, and ratchets are all popular choices. Bungees are the quickest and easiest to use, but they won't provide enough tension for a long session.

Material quality and durability

Don't only consider the frame but also the quality of the netting. Pickleball nets should be made with heavy-duty, tightly-woven polyester or nylon mesh. The frame should be rust-proof and able to withstand regular outdoor use.

Cost

Not everyone wants to spend hundreds on a premium net. I've included nets of all price points in my list, so you'll find something that fits your budget.

Why does the pickleball net matter in the game?

A sagging net means you aren't playing on regulation-sized equipment, which can lead to you developing bad habits and making mistakes later down the line.

It's important to use a net that's stable, well-tensioned, and properly sized. A good pickleball net should also be easy to set up and take down so you don't waste time when setting up the court or packing away after play.

Oval vs round tubing in pickleball net frame

Many cheaper pickleball nets on the market use round tubing for their frame. This can lead to a wobbly net, as it's harder to get a snug fit when putting the pieces together. Oval tubing provides greater stability and is usually found in higher-quality models.

What are the standard pickleball net specifications?

The official specifications for pickleball nets are as follows:

  • Width of 22' (6.7 meters)
  • Height of 36" (91 cm) at the posts and 34" (86 cm) in the center from the court surface
  • Netting constructed from 2.5-3 mm, high-strength polyester or nylon mesh with a minimum mesh size of 9" x 11" (23 cm x 28 cm)

Learn more about pickleball net regulations

Graphic showing the pickeball net height regulations

How do you set up a temporary pickleball court?

You can mark out the court lines and put up your net with a piece of chalk and a measuring tape. Then measure out:

  • 20' x 44' rectangle for doubles play or 20' x 30' rectangle for singles play
  • 7' non-volley zone (the 'kitchen') on each side of the net, marked by dashed lines
  • Center service line 8' from the net, marked with a solid line

Bottom line

That's it for my breakdown of the top portable pickleball nets in 2024. The SwiftNet 2.1 comes out on top as it's just so simple, light, and easy to set up. I don't like spending any more time than I have to setting up nets, and that's what I like most about the SwiftNet.

Here are my top five picks again:

  1. SwiftNet 2.1 - Best overall
  2. ZENY Portable Net System - Best cheap
  3. PickleNet Deluxe - Best on wheels
  4. Dominator - Most durable
  5. A11N Pro - Most adjustable

Whichever you choose, I hope it does what it's made to—allow you to play more pickleball! See you on the courts.

This article contains affiliate links from which we receive a small commission from sales of certain items. As a brand associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

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About the author
Brandon Mackie
Brandon is an avid writer and co-founder of Pickleheads™. Once a competitive tennis player, Brandon can now be found these days honing his dinks on pickleball courts near Phoenix, Arizona.
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