5 Amazing Pickleball Paddles Under $100
Hey what is up pickle people!
I’ve been getting the same question from a lot of people lately: “Hey Paul, what is the best paddle that isn’t $150+?”, so I thought I would make a post about my favorite paddles under $100 that are leaps and bounds better than many of the beginner paddles out there. These paddles might be cheaper than a lot of the higher-tier paddles out there, but there are many high level players that play with the paddles in this review. The great part about pickleball today is the technology has made it much easier for new and seasoned players to get great paddles without breaking the bank.
1. Paddletek Bantam EX-L Paddle
The Bantam EX-L is a great mix of power and maneuverability coupled with the great build quality of Paddletek. I think this is one of the best polymer paddles around this price point and I think it can give many of the more expensive a run for their money. Paddletek did a great job re-vamping the whole paddle design and I have been extremely happy with the playability of this paddle. It is definitely a giant step up from any beginning paddle you have and you will instantly notice the improvement in all aspects of your game.
Technical Specifications :
Weight Average: 8.2 ounces
Weight Range: 7.7 - 8.4 ounces
Grip Circumference: 4 1/4" (Medium)
Grip Tack: medium
Grip Style: cushion, perforated
Grip Length: 5 1/8"
Paddle Length:15 5/8"
Paddle Width: 7 7/8"
Paddle Face: Vinyl graphic
Core Material: Polymer honeycomb
Edge Guard: 1/8" overlapping paddle face
2. Onix Z5 Graphite Paddle
The Z5 Graphite is probably the paddle with the most power on this list. It is a Nomex core paddle, which is a really hard and thin honey comb core material that brings a ton of “pop” to this paddle. This paddle has a little different feel than the other polymer paddles on this list. It is more of a solid hitting surface than a “softer” feeling face. The graphite face does help with some control, but this paddles bread and butter is its overwhelming power.
Technical Specifications:
Weight Average: 7.9 ounces
Weight Range: 7.5 – 8.2 ounces
Grip Circumference: 4 1/4" (Medium) Actual grip sizes may vary up to 1/8".
Grip Tack: Medium Grip Style: Perforated cushion grip
Grip Manufacturer: Onix
Grip Length: 5”
Paddle Length: 15 1/2”
Paddle Width: 8-1/8”
Paddle Face: Graphite
Core Material: Nomex honeycomb
Edge Guard: ¼” overlapping paddle face
Manufacturer: Onix Sports (formerly S-Type Sports)
3. Engage Encore Composite Paddle
The Engage Encore is the lightest and smallest paddle on this list, but at the same time does not sacrifice any playability. This is an amazing all around paddle that can tailor to any type of game. It can hit for finesse, hit for power, play back from the net and hit close and the best part is because of its weight it can be used by people that are not as strong, or have weaker joints. Many paddles out there rely on their weight to provide power, but this paddle really utilizes its materials, build quality and balance to created a great lightweight paddle for this price point.
Technical Specifications:
Weight Average: 7.4 ounces
Weight Range: 7.2 – 7.9 ounces
Grip Circumference: 4 1/4" (Medium) Actual grip sizes may vary up to 1/8".
Grip Style: Perforated Cushion Grip
Manufacturer: Gamma
Grip Length: 4 3/4”
Paddle Length: 15 1/2”
Paddle Width: 8 1/8”
Paddle Face: Fiberglass
Core Material: Polymer honeycomb
Edge Guard: ¼” overlapping paddle face
4. Paddletek Element Paddle
To me, the Paddletek Element is like a Swiss army knife of paddles. You get great control and ability to hit accurate finesse shots while also having great kill potential. The Element has been a mainstay in high level play and even though many new paddles are coming in, many people love the overall playability of the paddle. I don’t think it excels at any one thing, but the beauty of the paddle is it can do a little bit of everything and all those things very well. This paddle is definitely a big step up from your beginner paddles and you will feel it right from the first hit.
Technical Specifications
Average weight is 7.6 oz
Grip Circumference: 4 1/4" (Medium)
Grip Tack: medium
Grip Style: cushion, perforated
Grip Length: 5 1/8"
Paddle Length:15 3/4"
Paddle Width: 7 3/4"
Paddle Face: Vinyl graphic
Core Material: Polymer honeycomb
Edge Guard: 1/8" overlapping paddle face
5. GAMMA Mirage Composite Paddle
The GAMMA Mirage Composite Paddle is a solid mid/heavy weight, power oriented paddle. The feeling of your power shots through this larger than average sweet spot is really nice and although it is not known for its control, it can still play close to the net. This paddle is a little “softer” then the Z5 Nomex core, but still provides a lot of “pop” and can hit kill shots from all around the court. Just keep in mind that this paddle can be on the heavier side, so it benefits its power and control, but people who need a lighter paddle might not want to upgrade to the Mirage.
Technical Specifications
Weight Average: 8.0 ounces
Weight Range: 7.8-8.2 ounces
Grip Circumference: 4 1/8” (Small) Actual grip sizes may vary up to 1/8".
Grip Tack: Medium
Grip Style: Cushion, perforated, ribbed
Grip Manufacturer: Gamma Honeycomb Grip
Grip Length: 4 3/4"
Paddle Length: 15 7/8”
Paddle Width: 8"
Paddle Face Finish: Textured composite
Core Material: Sensa Poly Core
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