So, you're ready to move on from your beginner paddle. There are so many great intermediate paddles on the market these days. Some are more control-oriented, others have better spin, and some are made for power.
To help you decide which is best for you, I've made a list of the best intermediate pickleball paddles in 2023. Take a look below and see which paddle best fits your game.
Best pickleball paddles at a glance
Best overall
Our Rating:
1. Vatic Pro Flash
The Vatic Pro Flash combines pro levels of forgiveness and spin with plenty of power and control. It's also the softest and best-value thermoformed paddle.
The Vatic Pro PRISM Flash is a great value paddle if you don't want to spend much. For just $100, you get a genuinely high-performing, all-court paddle.
If you're ready to add power to your game, the Bread & Butter Filth is a reliable step up. You'll also get great spin and all the control intermediates need.
An awesome combination of control, forgiveness, and spin
7.5/10
Power
8/10
Control
9/10
Spin
10/10
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You're a new intermediate:
this is the best step-up paddle I've played with.
You want a soft thermoformed paddle:
this is the softest thermoformed paddle I've ever used, which will help intermediates adjust.
You want a great deal:
this is one of the best value paddles in all of pickleball right now.
Pass if:
You want to add a lot of power to your game:
this is more focused on control. For a power paddle, try the Bread & Butter Filth.
You're looking for more pop:
a paddle like the CRBN-3X has more pop off the face.
You get fatigued:
I had to swing hard to generate power, so those prone to injury or tiredness might prefer the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash.
Vatic Pro
Get $10 off with code PICKLEHEADS
Amazon
Paddle weight
7.8-8 oz (14 mm) / 8-8.2 oz (16 mm)
Paddle length
16 ⅓"
Paddle width
7.7"
Handle length
5 ⅓"
If you're a rising intermediate, you'll be looking to add spin to your game but won't need too much power yet. You'll need a paddle that's soft enough to have a lot of control, as it has to be forgiving too.
The Vatic Pro Flash ticks all these boxes. When you factor in the bargain price tag, it's an easy choice for #1 on this list.
Who it's for
This is perfect for intermediates who want a paddle that's easy to control and has great spin. It's a good introduction to thermoformed paddles without playing as intensely as more expensive ones do. It's an ideal step-up paddle until you're ready for an advanced paddle.
Features
The Vatic Pro Flash comes with a lot of the same tech and materials you find in $200 or higher paddles. It's made from raw carbon fiber and has a thermoformed, 'unibody' design for strength and stability. Plus, its foam-injected walls give it a large sweet spot.
Design and feel
This doesn't stand out from others in terms of looks, but in the hand, it feels much more expensive than $140. My one feels lighter than its 8.2 oz, which makes it quite aerodynamic. That said, I did have to swing hard to get power, which left me a bit more tired than I'd have liked.
Performance
This paddle's best quality is its forgiveness—I could go 2-hour sessions without a single mishit. I was also surprised by how good its spin was, almost up there with the Legacy Pro.
It's got great control for a thermoformed paddle. While I wish it was more powerful, it does have enough to let me play competitively as long as I swing hard.
Value for money
I think this is the best-value pickleball paddle of 2023—not just for intermediates, but overall. For $140, you're getting a paddle that rivals the best from CRBN and JOOLA (which cost over $100 more). Anyone who's ready to step up to an intermediate paddle should give this a look.
The Vatic Pro Flash will help any intermediate player elevate their game. It's forgiving and has enough spin and control to help you win more games. While it's a little lacking in power and pop, I still think it's an unbeatable value at just $140 for a high-performing thermoformed paddle.
the PRISM Flash has all the qualities to take your game to the next level.
You need power, spin, and control:
this has the right balance of each, making it a great all-court paddle.
You're not ready for a thermoformed paddle:
this was designed for players who find thermoformed paddles too powerful.
Pass if:
You want something that's really aerodynamic:
it does play a bit head heavy, lacking the lightness of the Volair Mach 1.
You're a banger:
this has power but is more of a control paddle. Hard-hitters should try the Bread & Butter Filth instead.
You'd prefer a thermoformed paddle:
Vatic Pro also make a thermoformed version of this paddle (the Flash).
Vatic Pro
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Amazon
Paddle weight
7.7-7.9 oz (14 mm paddle) / 7.9-8.2 oz (16 mm paddle)
Paddle length
16 ⅓"
Paddle width
7 ⅔"
Handle length
5 ⅓"
The Vatic Pro PRISM Flash is, in my opinion, the best cheap pickleball paddle on the market. It blows all other paddles under $100 out of the water. It's built like a $200 or higher paddle and plays like one too.
Who it's for
Intermediates will like the blend of control, spin, and power this paddle offers. I think it even gives advanced paddles a run for their money and I wouldn't be surprised if tournament-ready players kept it.
If you want a raw carbon fiber paddle at a fraction of the normal cost, this is worth trying out.
Features
I was surprised to learn that such an affordable paddle is built with Toray T700 carbon fiber, just like expensive Gearbox and CRBN paddles. It even has foam edge walls and a unibody design too. This is a sturdy, long-lasting paddle.
Design and feel
While the design isn't particularly unique, it feels like a premium paddle right out of the box. On the court, it has a plush feel and makes me feel like I'm playing with a much more expensive paddle.
The one drawback to how it feels is a head heaviness that reminds me of the JOOLA Hyperion.
Performance
Control is really great with this paddle. I could hit just about any shot with good accuracy right from my first session. The spin was impressive too—the same I'd get from some $200 raw carbon paddles.
This gave me the confidence to swing hard and get plenty of power on topspin drives and serves. While it's a forgiving paddle overall, the sweet spot is not as consistent as really premium paddles like the Six Zero DBD Control or the CRBN-3X Power Series.
Value for money
Alongside the Vatic Pro Flash, I'm naming this the best value in all of pickleball in 2023. Intermediate players will love that you can get a paddle that plays on par with the JOOLA Perseus for $130 less.
The Vatic Pro PRISM Flash is one of the best control paddles I've ever played with. Great spin, forgiveness, and surprising power make it a serious all-court paddle. At just $100, this is the best cheap paddle ever offered to intermediate players.
the best paddle for those who want to start playing aggressively.
You want to spend less than $200:
at $165, the Filth is a lot cheaper than competing paddles in the $220-250 price range.
You need control too:
this paddle offers enough control and forgiveness to help intermediates step up.
Pass if:
Your focus is control:
I'd classify this as a power paddle, so try the JOOLA Perseus if you need more control.
You want a budget paddle:
the $100 Vatic Pro PRISM Flash is my top choice for cheap intermediate paddles.
You need a forgiving paddle:
this can take a while to get used to, so expect flyers. The Vatic Pro Flash might be a better fit.
Bread & Butter
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Paddle weight
8 oz
Paddle length
16 ½"
Paddle width
7 ⅜"
Handle length
5 ½"
This was my top pick for power in 2023 across all paddles, but it works great for intermediate players as well as advanced.
It has enough control to complement its power, which is why I chose it as the best power paddle for intermediates too. As a power player myself, I enjoyed playing with the Filth more than any other paddle in 2023 so far.
Who it's for
This one suits intermediates who are ready to add power to their game. If you want to start playing aggressively, you'll like the Bread & Butter Filth. It has wicked spin too, and more than enough control to make it an all-court paddle.
Features
This is a thermoformed, unibody paddle with foam injection used throughout. It's made from T700 raw carbon fiber, which is why the face gets such great spin.
Design and feel
Most paddles look alike nowadays, but I can't say the same for the Filth. I really like the psychedelic pattern and colorful handle. I got a lot of compliments on the court.
While it feels less stiff than a lot of thermoformed paddles, it's not quite as plush as something like the CRBN-1X Power Series. One small issue for me is that the grip was a bit slippery in the hot sun.
Performance
Despite what I'd heard, I wasn't prepared for the amount of power in this paddle. I had to learn fast to control those flyers. That said, there's something so fun about how it plays—the wildness of it.
Once I mastered the pop, I could do a lot with power and spin. It's a real spin machine. Control is surprisingly good too and it rounded out my game.
The only issue I have is the smallish sweet spot. If you mishit, that ball is going into the net. The Six Zero DBD Control plays much better near the throat and edges and leads to fewer mishits.
Value for money
My closest comparison to the Bread & Butter Filth is the CRBN-1X, one of my go-to paddles. While that one costs $230, the Filth is just $165.
I still believe the CRBN is worth every penny, but the Filth is a really great deal at that price—especially when you can get it around $140 with the Pickleheads discount.
❌ Doesn't have a soft, muted response from the ball like the CRBN-1X
❌ Sweet spot is not large
My verdict
If you want a more control-oriented paddle, look to the JOOLA Perseus or the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash. If power and spin are what you're after, though, consider the Bread & Butter Filth. It has enough stability and control but is lively and aggressive—perfect if you're a hard-hitting intermediate.
Superior control from one of the most respected brands in the game
8/10
Power
10/10
Control
8/10
Spin
8/10
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You want to focus on your touch game:
this is one of the most premium control paddles out there.
You want a long-lasting paddle:
built with the best materials, this will serve you for years.
You prefer a lighter paddle:
I found the Perseus light and maneuverable, solving the head heaviness of the Hyperion.
Pass if:
You're on a budget:
if you don't want to spend $250, the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash has similar control and costs just $100.
You want more spin:
paddles like the CRBN-3X and Legacy Pro score much higher for spin.
You want more power:
you might prefer the Bread & Butter Filth, my top intermediate paddle for power.
Pickleball Central
Amazon
Paddle weight
7.8-8 oz
Paddle length
16 ½"
Paddle width
7 ½"
Handle length
5 ½"
Of the few paddles I scored 10/10 for control in 2023, I think the JOOLA Perseus will give the most confidence to intermediate players.
It shines in the touch game, while giving you enough power and spin to boost your game. It's also the GOAT Ben Johns' go-to paddle in 2023, and a lot of intermediates will want to try it for that reason.
Who it's for
This is for intermediates and up who love control-focused paddles. It's also a great transition paddle if you're new to thermoformed paddles, as it's one of the best performing on control.
Features
JOOLA got some criticism with the Hyperion for snapping issues and head heaviness. They've fixed this with a new unibody construction for a stronger paddle, as well as taking a whole 0.4 oz off the weight.
They've kept the carbon surface and hyperfoam edge walls for spin and stability. I thought the paddle played lighter than the Hyperion, but it did feel less stable—especially around the edges. I recommend experimenting with lead tape to get the most out of its performance.
Design and feel
I really like how the Perseus looks. It's slick and the Ben Johns' signature adds a nice touch, like a reminder you're playing with the world #1's go-to paddle.
In the hand, it feels way lighter than the Hyperion, and I didn't get that sluggish drag. The grip looks better and is a lot comfier than the old ribbed one.
Performance
Control is the Perseus' strongest quality. I could reset, dink, and drop confidently with this paddle. Spin and power, while not 10/10, were more than enough to let me play at an intermediate level.
Personally, I like how light it is in my hands, and how you can customize the weight with lead tape. This might not appeal to everyone though. One thing to be aware of is the small sweet spot compared to other thermoformed paddles like the CRBN-3X and the Legacy Pro.
Value for money
At $250, this is one of the most expensive paddles out there. If you're really certain you want a top control paddle, and you have the money to spend, then I recommend it. The Perseus will last years, so it's worth the investment.
However, if you want something cheaper, there are plenty of alternatives these days, from the Volair Mach 1 ($160) to the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash ($100).
✔️ Unibody design, so shouldn't break or flex like the Hyperion
✔️ World #1 Ben Johns' paddle of choice
Cons
❌ Sweet spot is smaller than many elite paddles
❌ You might need to customize weight with lead tape
❌ You may struggle with mishits
My verdict
I think this is the best control paddle intermediates can buy right now. It has enough power and spin to boost your game without playing too fast or poppy. While I do think the Vatic Pro Flash and PRISM Flash are better paddles for most intermediates, the Perseus has Ben Johns' name—and that will matter to many rising players.
A great spin paddle with a big sweet spot and lots of power
9/10
Power
8/10
Control
10/10
Spin
9/10
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You want more spin:
you'll get tons of spin off this paddle face.
You want a forgiving paddle:
some spin paddles have small sweet spots, but not this one.
You'd like a long-lasting paddle:
CRBN are known for making durable, well-built paddles.
Pass if:
You don't want to spend over $200:
you might want to check out cheaper competing paddles like the Six Zero DBD.
You'd like a bit more control:
a pure control paddle like the JOOLA Perseus might suit you better.
You prefer elongated paddles:
the CRBN-1X is the elongated version of this paddle.
CRBN
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Pickleball Central
Amazon
Paddle weight
7.8 oz (14 mm paddle) / 8.1 oz (16 mm paddle)
Paddle length
16 ½"
Paddle width
7 ½"
Handle length
5 ¼"
Runner-up in my list of the best pickleball paddles in 2023, the CRBN-3X is the best spin paddle for intermediates. It backs up its great spin with a large sweet spot, lots of power, and plenty of control to help you adjust to your new level.
Who it's for
This will suit any intermediate player who's ready to start playing more aggressively. It will add spin and power to your game, while still being controlled enough to boost your confidence.
Features
The carbon fiber face on CRBN paddles is well-known for generating spin. The shape of the 3X is a hybrid of the elongated 1X and the square-shaped 2X Power Series, so you get the best of both worlds.
With foam injected throughout and a unibody construction, this is a sturdy paddle. I personally found the 1X too head heavy and the 2X lacking reach, so the 3X was a great fit for my game.
Design and feel
The 3X looks and feels super premium, with a sleek and elegant design. In my first few sessions, I liked how it felt solid yet light. After a while, though, I did notice some head heaviness and lack of aerodynamics, which might bother some players.
Performance
Spin is my favorite part of this paddle. You can get tons off the face, the kind that drops the ball in just when your opponent thinks it's going out.
This paddle also hits hard—really hard. I'd say its power level is up there with the Bread & Butter Filth. While the control isn't a 10/10, there's enough forgiveness to make up for it.
Value for money
While great paddles are coming out at lower prices than this one, like the Bread & Butter Filth, CRBN does have an edge on them. I find CRBN paddles have a more responsive feel and rate overall higher on forgiveness and control. That's why I think it justifies its $230 pricing.
✔️ Hybrid shape combines reach with a large sweet spot
Cons
❌ Not very aerodynamic
❌ Can be poppy
❌ Not as soft or plush as a paddle like the Vatic Pro Flash
My verdict
While the Legacy Pro is still my top pick overall for spin in 2023, the CRBN-3X is my favorite for intermediates because it plays a more rounded game. It has more power than its competitors, which will help you to win more points and start playing an aggressive game.
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How to choose the best intermediate pickleball paddle
As you step up from beginner level, choosing a paddle can be hard. There are almost too many out there. Some are similar and some are wildly different.
I not only personally tested dozens of pickleball paddles this year, but I also talked to experts, other reviewers, and paddle manufacturers to get you the best info to help you choose your paddle.
Brandon Mackie holding the Vatic Pro Flash pickleball paddle
Here are some things you should take into consideration when choosing a paddle:
Paddle size/shape
The standard size for a pickleball paddle is 16" (length) x 8" (width). The size of your paddle makes a difference to your game.
Meanwhile, elongated paddles are longer than 16" and thinner than 8". They tend to play with more power, spin, and reach, but they will have less control. This can make them a challenge to some intermediates.
Square-shaped paddles have wider faces. This gives them a larger sweet spot for more forgiveness. They're more popular with beginners and lots of intermediates too.
Hybrid paddles fall in between the two. They aim to find the balance between reach and control. Hybrid paddles can be great for intermediates.
Paddle weight
Weight is really important and can affect everything from power to how tired you get. Pickleball paddles usually weigh somewhere between 6.5-9 oz and are divided into the following categories:
Lightweight: 7.2 oz and under
Midweight: 7.3-8.3 oz
Heavyweight: 8.4 oz and over
Lightweight paddles
These are mostly beginner paddles. The lighter weight is good if your only focus is your touch game, mastering dinks, and drop shots. However, these paddles are usually made from cheaper materials and lack the power that intermediates need.
Midweight paddles
Most intermediate paddles fall in the midweight category. These blend good control with more power than lightweight paddles.
Heavyweight paddles
These tend to have the most power. The heavy swing weight leads to powerful shots but can tire out less advanced players. Most intermediates will struggle with the heaviness of these on the court.
Grip size
The average grip size on pickleball paddles is between 4-5". Sometimes it's hard to know how to choose between two options. I'd recommend choosing a smaller grip.
Intermediates are at the level where they can start adding overgrip as needed, since they better understand how they want the grip to feel.
As you can see from my list, most paddles are now made with a carbon fiber surface. This became so popular in the last couple of years because carbon paddles can generate great spin thanks to their rougher texture.
Fiberglass
Paddles with a fiberglass surface tend to be poppier, so some fast players prefer them. The smoothness of the surface does result in less spin, though.
Graphite
Paddles with graphite faces are becoming less popular as carbon fiber takes over. They tend to be lightweight and play with a bit less power. Often players add grit for more spin.
Core thickness
You'll see "core thickness" mentioned a lot when referring to pickleball paddles. Many paddles have a core thickness of either 14 mm or 16 mm. Thinner cores often have more power and pop, while thicker cores offer greater control and stability.
So, if you want to play aggressively, you'll probably choose a 14 mm paddle over a 16 mm. If you want more control on dinks, a 16 mm paddle will probably suit you better.
Core material
This refers to the material that makes up the interior of the paddle. The way this is constructed is actually really important because it affects how the ball responds to the paddle.
Most paddles nowadays have a core made from polypropylene (a type of plastic), though you'll sometimes see it referred to as a "polymer" core. These tend to be light and cushioning so the paddle has a flexible response when the ball hits it. This is great for control.
Durability
You want a paddle that's going to last you a long time, preferably until you're ready to step up to an advanced level.
Paddles made with cheap materials can start to wear and break within months. Make sure you research a paddle's durability in customer and professional reviews before buying.
All the paddles on this list scored high for durability. It's a very important category for me when I give my overall score on a paddle.
Price
Intermediate paddles can cost anywhere from $80-250, and you usually get what you pay for. However, new paddles are becoming available that are incredible value for money. The Vatic Pro Flash and PRISM Flash are two examples of high-quality paddles at very affordable prices.
I've included a section in each of my reviews on value for money because I know how important it is.
So, how can you tell if you're an intermediate? At this skill level, you should be able to do most (if not all) of the following:
Keep up with rallies
Consistently score points against beginners
Control the ball consistently
Strategize how you play
Have very few unforced errors
Know how to serve backhand and forehand
Hit all different types of shots (backhands, drop shots, etc.)
Opinions differ on when you've reached intermediate level. Personally, I'd say that if you're getting a lot more comfortable and confident, and you're winning matches against beginners, it's time to upgrade to an intermediate paddle.
You'll know when your beginner paddle just isn't giving you what you need anymore.
Bottom line
Whatever you end up choosing, intermediates are spoiled for choice these days with a whole range of great intermediate paddles on the market.
After testing many of them myself, I went with the Vatic Pro Flash as the best overall intermediate pickleball paddle of 2023. It just had the best blend of forgiveness, spin, control, and power to help intermediates keep advancing.
Once you find the paddle that best suits your game, you'll keep growing in confidence. You might even be looking for an advanced paddle before you know it.
FAQs
For one, beginner paddles are often made from cheaper materials as their focus is mostly on control and forgiveness. They're also usually lightweight.
Intermediate paddles tend to be midweight and made from stronger materials. They will have more performance-enhancing technology that improves spin and power alongside control and forgiveness.
Clean your paddle face and grip with a microfiber cloth dampened with just water, no cleaning products. Dry the grip with a clean cloth. Replace the grip when it starts to wear down, dirty, or tear.
Never leave your paddle in extremely hot or extremely cold temperatures. Store it in a pickleball paddle case or bag preferably, and keep it in a temperature-controlled environment.
Beginners are those who are still learning the game, and still making basic mistakes.
Intermediate players win more points, understand the game more, and are starting to strategize.
Advanced players are those who play with power and control at a more competitive level. They are out to win matches each time and can handle heavier, more challenging paddles.
You can certainly try one out, but I recommend sticking to a beginner paddle if you're a beginner. The last thing you want is to make a lot of mistakes that discourage you from playing pickleball.
You'll want to grow in confidence, so starting out with a paddle that suits your level is the best way to go.
You may want to upgrade for many reasons:
You're moving to a higher level and need more power, spin, or control
Your paddle has too much wear and tear
The handle is either too long or too short
You need something more forgiving
You want something lighter or heavier
You want a different shape (elongated, hybrid, square-shaped)
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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