Pickleball is the most sociable sport around, and what better way to get a game going than by buying a pickleball set? It means you'll always have a spare paddle for the friend who wants to join, or for those occasions when someone forgets their own.
Most pickleball sets come with everything you need to play a game with a friend: two paddles, some balls, and a handy carry bag. Some sets even include a pickleball net, so you can set up a game anywhere.
We've tested and compared the paddle sets from sites like Pickleball Central and Amazon. These include products by PCKL, Selkirk, JOOLA, and Prince (to name a few) to help you pick the right one for you. Take a look below at our top picks for the best pickleball sets in 2023:
Best overall set
1. PCKL Starter Bundle
The PCKL Starter Bundle packs an impressive performance on the courts, without the premium price tag.
Best beginner set
2. SLK NEO 2.0 by Selkirk
Two premium beginner paddles from top brand Selkirk, with a protective case and four balls to get your pickleball journey started.
Best cheap set
3. Amazin' Aces Pickleball Paddle Set
This is a solid, hefty paddle with a well-designed carry case and four outdoor balls – all for a dirt-cheap price.
Best mid-range
4. JOOLA Ben Johns Set
The JOOLA premium feel with a pleasingly low price tag.
Best set to gift
5. Nettie Pickleball Set
A beautifully designed paddle set that's the ideal gift for beginners who want their paddle to stand out from the rest.
Best looking set
6. Recess Vista Set
This is a premium, lightweight paddle wrapped in a piece of art.
The best pickleball sets in 2023
Why you can trust Pickleheads: we spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Learn more about how we test.
Below you'll find detailed reviews of each of the pickleball sets on our list. We've tested each set thoroughly, so you can be confident in our recommendations.
1. PCKL Starter Bundle
Impressive performance for a surprisingly affordable price
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You're just starting out with pickleball.
The PCKL Starter Bundle is ideal for beginners with its classic design and large sweet spot.
You plan to play outdoors.
This set comes with four durable, outdoor balls.
You don't want to break the bank.
This is not only our top choice, but also the second cheapest set on the list.
Pass if:
You're a seasoned player.
Intermediate or advanced players may find these paddles lacking.
You prefer a heavier paddle.
The PCKL Launch paddles are 7.9oz. So, if you prefer some heft, these aren't for you.
You're looking for a set with a carry case.
This set doesn't include a carry case, which many other offerings do.
Amazon
Paddle weight
7.9oz
Paddle length
16"
Paddle width
8"
Handle length
5"
Why we picked it
We picked this paddle set as it includes two great beginner paddles (PCKL Launch Series) and four hard-wearing outdoor balls, all for a surprisingly competitive price.
Who it's for
This is the ideal set for beginner pickleheads who are setting out on their pickleball journey. It’s also an ideal option for anyone who prefers playing outside, since the balls are designed for outdoor use.
Try the PCKL Starter Bundle and see why it's our #1
Features
The wide-body design makes this paddle extra forgiving and gives it a massive sweet spot. This means it's easier to hit more shots with fewer mishits from the edges. My testing confirmed this paddle is quite forgiving, with only occasional mishits. Nearly all my shots came with that satisfying 'pop'—a quality that any beginner will welcome.
Design and feel
The PCKL Launch paddle is light in the hand, so you can maneuver it quicker. I felt quick at the net with it, easily able to react to strong drives and offensive volleys. Despite the light weight, it's built sturdily.
The paddles feel strong while remaining responsive. This allows you to try more advanced touch shots like the 3rd shot drop, while having enough power to use drive shots in your game.
Performance
On the court, I found these paddles user-friendly and quick in the hand. They had surprisingly great feel from my first warm up shots up at the kitchen. The fiberglass surface provides excellent pop, though not as much grip as a more advanced paddle. While they lacked spin, that won't matter to most beginners.
Value for money
At only $64.99, this set offers excellent value for money. The quality of the paddles and balls make up for the fact it doesn't come with a carry case.
Pros
✔️ Perfect blend of power and control for new players
✔️ High-quality, durable pickleball balls
✔️ Extra large sweet spot
Cons
❌ No carry bag included
Our verdictThe PCKL Starter Bundle offers great value and remains our top overall choice for beginners. The paddles are lightweight with a responsive feel and forgiving sweet spot. The balls that come with the set are high quality and durable. The fact it doesn't include a carry case is easily forgiven thanks to the quality of the other elements.
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2. SLK NEO 2.0 by Selkirk
Brandon Mackie testing the SLK NEO 2.0 by Selkirk. Photo by Brandon Mackie / Pickleheads
The SLK NEO 2.0 surprised me on the court, playing at a more advanced level than the price tag would suggest. Photo by Brandon Mackie / Pickleheads
Advanced pickleball technology packaged into an affordable entry-level set, wrapped up in a durable carry case
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You're new to pickleball.
The SLK NEO 2.0 paddles are lightweight with an impressively forgiving sweet spot.
You want a step up from a cheap Amazon paddle.
These paddles are made from durable, lightweight composites.
You want to buy from a leading pickleball brand.
Selkirk is one of the best in the industry, and their paddle R&D is second to none.
Pass if:
You prefer a heavy paddle.
At only 7.5oz, these are ultra-lightweight paddles.
You're an intermediate or advanced player.
This paddle is suited to beginner level players only.
You're a power player.
This lightweight paddle is designed more for control than power.
Amazon
Paddle weight
7.5oz
Paddle length
15.67"
Paddle width
7 ⅘"
Handle length
5 ¼"
Why we picked it
Selkirk has some of the top tech in pickleball, and these paddles bring that technology to an entry-level set. We ranked these paddles highly in our list of the best beginners paddles in 2023, and they're an easy choice here for our best beginner set.
Who it's for
This paddle set is ideal for a beginner who wants the benefit of cutting-edge paddle technology by Selkirk, but at an affordable price. If you bought a cheap set on Amazon and aren't happy with how it plays, go for this.
Try the SLK NEO 2.0 and read some of their 1400 5* reviews
Features
The two SLK NEO 2.0 paddles feature multi-layered paddle faces (fiberglass and graphite). They also feature a honeycomb 13mm polymer core to reduce vibrations. This makes them easier and less tiring on your paddle hand in long practice sessions.
The paddle face is protected by a durable edge guard, so you don't have to worry if the paddle gets knocked about.
Design and feel
The paddles are light and maneuverable in the hand, allowing you to change direction quickly and easily. Selkirk's ultra-comfort grips are designed to wick sweat away from the hand, helping you to keep a great grip on your paddle.
A slightly thicker, polymer core absorbs impacts and softens the feel of your shots, which makes for more consistency and accuracy.
Performance
The large sweet spot makes these paddles forgiving for a beginner, but they also offer a little bit of room for practicing more complicated shots.
The paddle faces use an improved 'SpinFlex' textured surface, which is designed for better grip and ball control. We found that this was the case, and that the paddles produced an impressive amount of spin for an entry-level offering—more than the PCKL Starter Paddles.
Value for money
At $79.99, this paddle set offers excellent value for money. Selkirk has their own research and design division (Selkirk Labs) dedicated to advancing paddle technology. This paddle set benefits from that tech to deliver excellent on-court performance for an entry-level price.
Pros
✔️ Designed and manufactured by pickleball tech pioneers, Selkirk
✔️ Multilayer face improves ball control
✔️ Rigid SLK carrying bag included to protect your paddles
Cons
❌ The balls are not as good quality as other offerings, like the PCKL
❌ Less power than the Amazin' Aces offering
Our verdictThe SLK NEO 2.0 set offers beginners a great alternative to more budget paddles on Amazon, like the Niupipo Graphite. Having tested both personally and with beginners, the SLK has a better build, superior feel, and a more forgiving sweet spot compared to the Niupipo. If you're a beginner ready for a strong start on the courts, this is the set for you.
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3. Amazin' Aces Pickleball Paddle Set
The perfect pickleball set for a beginner on a budget.
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You're looking for a sleek, modern paddle on a budget.
This set is simple, stylish, and affordable.
You want weight behind your shots.
This set includes the heaviest paddles on our list.
You want a carry bag that performs.
The free carry bag features two types of straps and plenty of storage space.
Pass if:
You're looking for a lightweight paddle.
This paddle just about pushes into the heavyweight category.
You have a bit more to spend.
Just $5–10 more can get you superior sets like the PCKL Starter Bundle or the SLK NEO 2.0.
You have small hands.
The grip circumference of 4 ½" will be too wide for some.
Amazon
Paddle weight
8.3oz
Paddle length
16"
Paddle width
7 ¾"
Handle length
5"
Why we picked it
This set contains two Amazin' Aces Classic paddles, as well as the well-designed carry bag and four outdoor balls for a knockdown price.
Who it's for
It will best suit a beginner on a budget, who is strong enough to manage a slightly heavier paddle. It will also suit players with larger hands.
Try the Amazin' Aces set and join 4700+ players
Features
A durable graphite face and honeycomb polymer core are topped off with a comfortable grip. The paddle face is protected from knocks by an edge guard.
Design and feel
The hand-stitched, contoured paddle handle is ergonomic and feels great in the hand. At 8.3oz, this paddle is reaching the heavyweight division so it feels hefty. This allows you to generate power more easily, but also tires the hand and arm quicker.
Performance
The Amazin' Aces Classic paddles are built to offer a beginner a good all-round court experience. Thanks to its weight, this paddle will help you generate more power on your shots.
Value for money
At just $60, this set includes a highly functional carry case with an adjustable strap, four outdoor balls, and an extra pocket. We can't argue with that value!
Pros
✔️ Attractive, modern design with a budget price tag
✔️ Carefully designed carry bag with two straps and an extra pocket
✔️ Comfortable, cushioned grip
✔️ 1 year warranty included
Cons
❌ Heavier paddle, at 8.3oz
❌ Wide grip unsuitable for small hands
Our verdictThis set is as good as you will get for the price tag. While wooden sets are cheaper, they offer nowhere near the same performance on the courts. Keep in mind that these are heavier paddles and will suit a stronger player. If you're injured or prefer a light paddle, this isn't the set for you—you'd be better off with the PCKL Starter Bundle.
Today's best deal
4. JOOLA Ben Johns Set
The brand favored by the pros for a surprisingly attractive price tag
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You're looking for a solid all-rounder.
These paddles offer a great blend of power, control, and spin.
You want to buy from a top brand.
JOOLA is backed by the greatest player of all-time: Ben Johns.
You have larger hands or favor two-handed backhands.
These paddles have an extra-long 5.5" handle.
Pass if:
You plan to play in competitions.
This paddle is not yet USA Pickleball approved for tournament use.
You want a lightweight paddle.
This one is mid-weight, skewing on the heavier side.
Amazon
Paddle weight
8oz
Paddle length
16"
Paddle width
7 ½"
Handle length
5.5"
Why we picked it
The JOOLA Ben Johns Pickleball set includes two JOOLA Blue Lightning paddles, four pickleballs, and a durable bag to carry them to and from the courts. You get all of this for a very affordable price. The paddles are a cut-above most beginner offerings, making this our top mid-range pick.
Who it's for
This set is perfect for beginners looking for a complete set to get them started on their pickleball journey.
Features
The set comes with two beginner JOOLA paddles, a convenient backpack with adjustable strap, and an extra mesh pocket. It also includes two outdoor pickleballs and two indoor pickleballs.
The paddles have a premium fiberglass face and a thin, 10mm polymer honeycomb core. This means the paddle delivers a good mix of control and power, with enough spin for a pickleball beginner.
Design and feel
The paddles in this set are JOOLA's Ben Johns Blue Lightning paddles, which are entry-level all-rounders. They feature a responsive honeycomb polymer core which creates a large sweet spot and reduces vibrations. This means fewers mishits and longer play with less fatigue.
They also include the JOOLA 'Sure-Grip' with its antislip ridges, moisture-wicking surface, and increased shock absorption. This is a premium feature that the most expensive JOOLA paddles also use.
Performance
From my testing, I'd call these all-court paddles. They offers a good mix of power and control. At 8oz, they're midweight paddles with long handles and a relatively long paddle face.
All this length gives you extra reach and helps you to generate more power in your shots. The extra-long handle also allows you to hit two-handed backhands with ease.
Value for money
The paddles benefit from JOOLA's high-quality design and attention to detail. For under $80, this set offers excellent value.
Pros
✔️ The JOOLA brand name and look for an entry-level price
✔️ Great all-rounder paddle for a beginner
✔️ Long paddle handle
Cons
❌ Not USA Pickleball approved
Our verdictThis set offers beginners an exciting option from the hottest brand in pickleball right now. Their signature set comes with a neat backpack, two indoor pickleballs, and two outdoor pickleballs. The paddles don't skimp on quality, and use some of the same tech that powers world #1 Ben Johns' signature paddles. Altogether, this makes it an ideal bundle for any entry player.
Today's best deal
5. Nettie Pickleball Set
A cool retro paddle set that is guaranteed to turn heads on the court
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You want to give a beginner a great pickleball gift set.
This set comes wrapped in a cool box ready to gift.
You want to hit the courts in style.
The Nettie set is sure to stand out and attract compliments.
You want to support small businesses.
Nettie is women-owned and has an inspiring founding story.
Pass if:
You're on a budget.
This stylish set comes with a hefty price tag.
You're looking for performance over looks.
This paddle has enough performance for a beginner, but not for an intermediate or advanced player.
Amazon
Paddle weight
7.8–8oz
Paddle length
15 ½"
Paddle width
7 ¾"
Handle length
5"
Why we picked it
Nettie's products are simply gorgeous. We love that the designs are inspired by places relevant to pickleball's history, like Bainbridge Island, Washington where pickleball was invented.
This set also includes two sweatbands for even more vintage goodness. The Nettie brand is all about fun, and that makes the Nettie set far and away the best pickleball set to give as a gift.
Who it's for
This set is ideal for any pickleball beginner with a love for stylish designs and bold colors.
Features
The paddle core is made from lightweight but strong honeycomb polymer. The face is made from a grippy graphite.
Design and feel
The paddle also features an octagonal-shaped, premium vegan leather grip. This limits stress on your hand and elbow, allowing for longer play and more accurate shots.
Performance
This paddle is a midweight all-rounder. It's not going to blow you away when it comes to spin or power, but as a beginner paddle, it offers plenty on the courts. Plus, with looks like this, you can forgive a little less performance.
Value for money
At $150, this set doesn't come cheap, but the attention to detail and styling is what makes it stand out. Everything from the sweatbands to the gift box really does make this a wonderful gift for the pickleball lover in your life.
Pros
✔️ Comes in a neat gift box
✔️ Includes two retro sweatbands
✔️ Exudes old-school cool
Cons
❌ Carry case not included
❌ Paddles not as forgiving as other offerings, like the SLK
Our verdictThis is the kind of pickleball set that makes others excited to get out onto the court and give the sport a try. The vibrant, retro colors hark back to the summer of love and are sure to make this paddle stand out on the court. It's not all just good looks, however. This paddle also has some quality features that make it great to play with too.
Today's best deal
6. Recess Vista Set
Effortlessly elegant paddles for a check on-court look
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You want a paddle with style.
The Recess Vista is sure to turn heads on the courts.
Grip is important to you.
This paddle's grip is not only elegant—it's designed to stand up to sweaty, intense play.
You're happy to splash out for looks.
This set doesn't come cheap, but it looks great out on the courts.
Pass if:
You want high performance.
You'll find better performance in other picks on this list, like the PCKL Starter and SLK NEO 2.0 sets.
You're looking for spin.
This paddle's smooth face lacks in the spin department.
You're on a tight budget.
With all its good looks, this paddle set doesn't come cheap.
Recess
Amazon
Paddle weight
7.5–8oz
Paddle length
15.67"
Paddle width
7 ⅘"
Handle length
5"
Why we picked it
We picked the Recess Vista as our best looking pickleball paddle set for the gorgeous artwork on the face, as well as the chic leatherette handle. All the art on these paddles is designed by artists in Austin, TX.
With lots of designs to choose from, the Vista's looks impressed us the most.
Who it's for
This paddle set is for those who are happy to spend up a little to look good on the courts. It's best suited to beginners, as intermediate players will find the paddles lacking in performance.
Features
The paddles in this set are lightweight, modern offerings with durable fiberglass faces and polymer honeycomb cores. The paddles also feature an edge guard, so you can avoid scratching the nice artwork.
Design and feel
The sweatproof, condensed foam grip isn't just elegant. It genuinely works to wick away sweat from the palms during sweaty sessions on the court.
Performance
Under the old-school styling is a high-quality, modern paddle. The paddles are advertised as having a sanded texture, but in practice, they create very little grip. Other than that, they perform well on the courts, offering a good mix of power and control.
Value for money
At $166, this set is the most expensive item on our list that doesn't include a net. However, for that price, you get a pair of uniquely attractive paddles with some truly luxurious touches like the leatherette handle and embroidered paddle case.
Pros
✔️ Retro, understated design
✔️ Elegant faux-leather handle
✔️ Embroidered paddle case
Cons
❌ Lack of spin
❌ No carry bag—just individual paddle cases
Our verdictThis paddle set is for those who want to make a statement on the courts, and be the envy of their fellow pickleheads. While it may not pack as much performance as other paddles, like the JOOLA, the elegance and style more than make up for it.
Today's best deals
7. Helium Pickleball Paddles Set of 4
An affordable four-person pickleball starter pack
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You plan to play doubles.
With two blue and two red paddles, you're all set for a complete doubles game.
You want to introduce your friends and family to pickleball.
You've got all the gear, so they've got no excuses.
You're looking to get started with pickleball on a budget.
The paddles in this set end up costing less than $30 each, which is a truly affordable price.
Pass if:
You're an intermediate player.
Anyone above beginner level will find these paddles lacking in performance.
You have small hands.
The 4 ½" grip circumference may be a little too large.
Amazon
Paddle weight
7.7oz
Paddle length
15.88"
Paddle width
7 ¾"
Handle length
4 ½"
Why we picked it
We picked the Helium as the best set for four players because of its affordablility. Plus, the paddles come in two colors and are a good fit for beginner pickleheads.
Who it's for
This is a great set for a family that's just getting into pickleball, as well as for a rec center or school.
Features
The Helium paddles are built with a fiberglass face, which generates a nice mix of power and control. They feature a polypropylene honeycomb core to keep the paddle light and maneuverable.
We found these paddles to be light and quick at the net, which helped win kitchen exchanges.
Design and feel
These paddles are nicely balanced with a wide face, and a medium to light weight. They feature a high comfort, non-slip grip which is a little on the short side but should be adequate for most beginners.
Performance
The paddles in this set have a woven fiberglass face, which allows for a small amount of flex for better control over your shots. The honeycomb core absorbs vibrations. Combined with the wide paddle face, this increases the size of the sweet spot.
Value for money
At only $120 for the four paddles, four pickleballs, and a drawstring bag, this set offers great value for money.
Pros
✔️ Color coded for doubles play
✔️ Affordable full set
✔️ USA Pickleball certified
Cons
❌ Short, thick grip
Our verdictThis set offers the perfect introduction to pickleball for a family or group of players. The performance isn't going to impress a pro, but the budget price tag makes this set a great buy for beginners. Given the price, we found these paddles delivered a surprising amount of performance in both the power and control departments.
Today's best deal
8. Rally Tyro 2 Pro Set
Set up a game anywhere with this set of 4 paddles, balls and a portable pickleball net
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You live in an area without dedicated courts.
The portable net will allow you to set up your temporary court on any flat surface.
You're an intermediate player.
This is one of the few sets on our list suitable for intermediate players.
You want a quality set.
Rally has a long-standing reputation for making quality paddles and sets.
Pass if:
You only need two paddles.
If you're just buying for two, this set offers more than you need.
You're on a tight budget.
This set has a hefty price tag, which makes sense only if you need a portable net.
Pickleball Central
Paddle weight
7.7oz
Paddle length
15 ⅝"
Paddle width
7 ¾"
Handle length
5"
Why we picked it
We picked this set because it's the full package. It offers a durable net system, four high-quality paddles, four pickleballs, and a couple of bags to carry it all around in.
Who it's for
This set is ideal for those who have a yard or existing basketball, badminton or tennis court and want to set up a pickleball playing area.
Features
The PickleNet Classic portable net system is a regulation size net that packs away into a convenient duffel bag. The net is easily assembled and disassembled, and is built with lightweight but ultra-strong materials. Once packed in its bag, the net weighs only 23lbs.
The Rally Tyro 2 Pro paddles included with this set are high-performance paddles, designed for beginner to intermediate level players.
Design and feel
The net features a hollow, metal, powder-coated post system with a strong nylon net and a durable vinyl headband. The paddles have a wide face with a long handle for extra reach.
Performance
These Rally Tyro 2 paddles genuinely perform on the courts, offering plenty of control, power and spin. They also have an impressively large sweet spot.
Value for money
At $480, this is an investment for anyone. However, for that price tag, you can set up your own pickleball court on any suitable piece of ground. It's not cheap, but it's a cost-effective way to have your very own portable court for a complete game of doubles.
Pros
✔️ Complete Picklenet pop-up net system included
✔️ Large Pickleball Central duffel bag included
✔️ Made in the USA
Cons
❌ Expensive price tag
Our verdictIf you have a space to play pickleball, but no net, this set is well worth the investment. All the elements of this set, from the portable net to the paddles are high quality and durable. They'll serve your pickleball passion long into the future. If you have a group of four eager to start playing, this set is the only purchase you need to make.
Today's best deal
9. Prince Response Graphite 2-Paddle
Image by Pickleball Central
Image by Pickleball Central
Our top choice for those who are progressing their game
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You've played tennis before pickleball.
You'll feel right at home with this paddle's shape and large sweet spot.
You like a forgiving paddle.
These paddles have some of the largest sweet spots we've experienced.
You want a control-focused paddle.
This paddle really shines on touch shots.
Pass if:
You're looking for a powerful paddle set.
These paddles are light and control-oriented.
You're on a tight budget.
At roughly $80 each, these are premium paddles for those ready to invest in their game.
Pickleball Central
Paddle weight
7.1–7.7oz (lightweight), 7.8–8.3oz (standard weight)
Paddle length
15 ½"
Paddle width
8¼"
Handle length
5½"
Why we picked it
We picked this pickleball set as the best for intermediate because the paddles deliver superior ball control, feel, and touch. These qualities help intermediates as they start hitting more advanced shots like dinks and drop shots.
Who it's for
This set is great for anyone who is well on their way to an intermediate level, with a pickleball skill rating of 3.0 or more.
Features
The first thing you notice about these paddles is their rounded, wide shape that resembles a tennis racket. This gives them an extra-large sweet spot, a quality enjoyed by both beginners and intermediates alike.
The paddle features a long 5 ½" handle, which you'll appreciate if you hit a two-handed backhand.
Design and feel
These are midweight paddles, skewing on the lighter side. During testing, the paddles felt light in my hand and were maneuverable on the court. The face is responsive, which helps with precision and accuracy.
Performance
This paddle was built for control, and we found it really shined on touch shots. My drops were consistently accurate and the paddle had a responsive feel that really helped my short game. I found the sweet spot extra large as advertised, and mishits were quite rare.
This paddle also has a long handle, which helped my reach and is also great for two-handed backhands. If you're coming from tennis, you'll appreciate this feature.
Value for money
For $160, this is close to the most expensive doubles set on the list, but the quality justifies the price tag. If you're ready to start trying more advanced shots in your games, like dinks and drops, this paddle set is well worth the investment.
Pros
✔️ Several colors available
✔️ Elongated handle for extra reach
✔️ Impressively large sweet spot
Cons
❌ Premium price
❌ Not a power paddle
Our verdictThe Prince Response set is a perfect step up from a beginner paddle, offering superior touch and feel over the other sets on our list. If you're an improving beginner who's ready to test more advanced shots like drops and dinks, this paddle set is for you.
Today's best deal
10. Niupipo Graphite Pickleball Paddles
A budget set with all-round usability for a beginner
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You're a beginner looking for a cheap starter set.
Niupipo has sold thousands of these and has great customer reviews.
You're looking for a great gift for a new pickleball player.
This attractive set will give a friend or family member a good introduction to the sport.
You're on a budget.
These are the second cheapest on our list, offering quality performance for a cheap price.
Pass if:
You can spend a few more dollars.
Spending just $10 more can get you superior sets from top brands like JOOLA and SLK.
You're an advancing pickleball beginner.
If you're on the way to intermediate level, you'll soon outgrow these paddles.
You have large hands.
The handle is 1" shorter than the Prince Response, for example.
Amazon
Paddle weight
8oz
Paddle length
15 ½"
Paddle width
7.8"
Handle length
4 ½"
Why we picked it
This paddle from Niupipo is a bestseller on Amazon and a consistently popular choice among beginners. We see these out on the courts all the time – and its sub $70 price tag is a big reason. They won't play like sets from PCKL, SLK and JOOLA but they will get you playing for an attractive price point.
Who it's for
This set is designed for brand new players who are looking to move from wooden paddles to an entry-level composite offering—without breaking the bank.
Features
The paddles have everything you'd expect from a lightweight, modern paddle. They feature a lightweight but responsive honeycomb core wrapped up in a graphite, carbon fiber face. A durable edge guard protects the paddle face from the scratches and knocks of beginner play.
Design and feel
These paddles feel comfortable in the hand, with sweat wicking, cushioned grips and well-balanced paddle faces. Players with larger hands will find the handle length a little lacking.
Performance
These paddles offer great all-round performance. They are well balanced with a wide face and offer a good blend of power and control for beginners.
This was my paddle set as a beginner years ago, and the mix of power and control was a good foundation for my game. Though PCKL and SLK offer superior feel and a bigger sweet spot, these paddles can still perform well in competitive games.
Value for money
At $69.99 these are a solid budget option, offering good value for money for those who don't want to invest too much starting out.
Pros
✔️ Amazon bestseller with positive reviews
✔️ Paddle case and four balls included
✔️ Comfortable in the hand, with a perforated, sweat-absorbent grip
Cons
❌ Shorter paddle handle makes it unsuitable for players with larger hands
❌ Paddle case has no handles, so can't be used as a carry bag
Our verdictThough there are better performing sets on the market, the Niupipo is a solid option for a brand-new player. It's highly reviewed, offers all round performance, and comes in at an attractive price.
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How we chose the best pickleball sets
Buying a pickleball set can be a big investment—and one of the most important ones you'll make when starting out in pickleball. It's an important choice, so we considered the following criteria to rank our list:
- Quality: we looked for reputable brands that prioritize quality above all else in their design and manufacturing. We know from experience that quality gear makes all the difference on the court.
- Performance: the paddles in a set should do more than just get you on the court. They should offer a good mix of power, control, and spin to help you play competitively.
- Completeness: what does the set have to offer? Does it come with balls and a carry case?
- Durability: the gear included in the set should stand up over months of repeated play.
- Price: Is the set worth the price? Do the included paddles offer good performance? Do the extra accessories provide great value?
We also read through hundreds of reviews across top sets available on Amazon, Pickleball Central, and manufacturer websites to figure out what sets people loved the most. And most importantly, the Pickleheads team and I personally played with and tested every paddle set on this list.
How to pick the best pickleball set
When looking for a complete pickleball set, there are a few factors to take into consideration:
Quality
The overall build quality of pickleball paddles can vary greatly, even among paddles that appear similar. Low-quality paddles will degrade more quickly and might suffer from defects like dead spots or improperly secured components.
You can avoid getting stuck with low-quality gear by buying from reputable manufacturers.
Materials
The materials used in pickleball sets greatly affect how they’ll feel when you’re playing. This is particularly true of paddles!
Most modern paddles have a polymer honeycomb core, and their faces—the striking surface—will typically be graphite or fiberglass. (When you see manufacturers say “carbon fiber,” they often use the term interchangeably with “graphite,” by the way.) Neither material is “better,” but there are differences between them.
Graphite is often considered to have more "pop", while fiberglass is more lightweight and maneuverable. Older or very inexpensive paddles may be made from wood, which tends to be heavier and less effective.
Some paddles also incorporate proprietary polymers or special composite materials, but this is less common.
What’s included
Bang for your buck matters, and accessories add up! Aside from paddles and/or a net, pickleball sets will usually include a few pickleball balls—the more included, the better the value!
Bundles may also include paddle covers or a carrying bag, which adds more value and convenience. Some have further add-ons, like replacement grip tape or link chalk.
Paddle weight
Pickleball paddles can weigh anywhere from 6 ounces to 14 ounces, and the weight greatly affects your playing experience.
Heavier paddles will make it easier to hit the ball powerfully, but they’re also less agile. Of course, they’ll also cause fatigue more quickly, and they may exacerbate joint problems.
Lighter paddles are better for finesse, control, and pinpoint accuracy. Most of the paddles in this list weigh between 7.5 oz and 8 oz, which most players will prefer—a light paddle, but not too light.
USA Pickleball compliant
Pickleball paddles that are USA Pickleball-compliant fall within a set of standard guidelines. Their length cannot exceed 17 inches, for example, and the paddle’s total surface area cannot exceed 24 square inches, including the butt cap and edge guard.
USA Pickleball-certified paddles also undergo testing for design features that might create an unfair advantage, like a non-flat striking surface or using a non-rigid surface material.
Using compliant paddles means everyone’s playing fairly. It’s also usually a requirement for playing in tournaments.
Portability
Since most pickleball players bring their gear with them from home, having everything in a neatly portable package makes a difference. This is particularly true for pickleball nets, with the best of them being lightweight, easy to set up, and easy to pack. The best portable pickleball net sets will come with a sturdy bag for easy transportation.
Image by Pickleball Central
Pickleball paddle sets sometimes come with a bag as well, which is great for convenience. This allows you to stow away a few paddles, some balls, and other personal accessories all in one bag that you can carry right onto the court.
In case your pickleball set doesn’t include a bag, there are many great options to buy a pickleball bag.
Suitable for indoors or outdoors
Most pickleball gear is fine to use both indoors and outdoors, but it’s always good to find equipment that can withstand the elements. This is especially true in the case of nets.
Some people prefer to leave their nets up and outside for long periods of time, and for many pickleball nets that won’t be a problem at all.
Others might not stand up to harsh sunlight or rain and may degrade or mildew. Pickleballs also come in indoor and outdoor varieties. For casual play, you can use either interchangeably, but it’s nice to have access to both!
Price
Quality pickleball gear is generally fairly-priced and accessible. That’s a big reason why the sport is such a hit!
Passionate players can splurge on professional-level gear. But your everyday player can also compete with quality affordable equipment.
People buying pickleball sets are often newer players who want to try the sport with friends or family, or are outfitting a local club or school group—in these cases, getting a good value for the money is even more important.
What do you need to play pickleball?
Common items featured in a pickleball set include:
- Paddles (usually 2 or 4)
- Balls (usually 2 to 4)
- A carrying bag or paddle covers
- A net (sometimes)
- Other gear: Less commonly, pickleball sets may include line chalk, a portable rules booklet, a headband or sweatband, or replacement paddle grips
Complete pickleball sets vs pickleball paddle sets
Complete pickleball sets offer everything you need to play a game of pickleball: paddles, balls, and sometimes a net (depending on if you have a dedicated court or not). Complete sets also commonly offer useful accessories, like a carrying case.
A pickleball paddle set is any set with more than one pickleball paddle, but no balls, nets, or accessories. These are usually sets with two pickleball paddles, offering the most important gear without all the extras.
Bottom line
So, folks, that's our list of the top ten pickleball sets for this year. The PCKL Starter Bundle stands out above the rest for us for its combination of excellent on-court performance and affordable price tag.
To recap, here's our top five again:
- PCKL Starter Bundle (best overall)
- SLK Graphite NEO 2.0 (best beginner)
- Amazin' Aces Pickleball Paddles (best cheap set)
- JOOLA Ben Johns Set (best mid-range)
- Nettie Pickleball Set (best to gift)
Grab one of these sets and great ready to hit the court.
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