Best Pickleball Paddles Under $100
You don't need to spend $170 on a professional-grade paddle to play excellent recreational pickleball. The sub-$100 market has matured significantly — brands like Selkirk, Onix, Paddletek, and Gamma all offer serious performance at this price point. These paddles are used daily at Denver rec centers and parks by intermediate players who've outgrown their starter paddle.
Our Top Picks
Selkirk Amped S2 Pickleball Paddle
The benchmark mid-range paddle. FiberFlex face technology, polypropylene core, excellent balance between power and touch. Selkirk is a top-tier brand — this is their entry into the sub-$100 range.
Check Price on AmazonPaddletek Bantam EX-L Paddle
Lightweight polymer core paddle at under $90. Smooth face finish for good spin and control. One of the most consistent paddles in recreational play.
Check Price on AmazonGamma Sports Needle Graphite Paddle
Elongated blade shape increases reach — great for net play. Graphite face with a textured surface for spin shots. A solid choice for players developing their third-shot drop.
Check Price on AmazonEngage Encore Pro Pickleball Paddle
Control-oriented paddle with a soft polymer core. Low power, high touch — ideal for players who've mastered placement and want to refine their dink game.
Check Price on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, PBND earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a $60 paddle and a $150 paddle?
At $60–100 you get quality materials — graphite or composite faces, polymer cores, comfortable grip tape. At $150+ you're paying for premium carbon fiber faces (more spin), advanced core technologies (Toray carbon, foam injection), and signature pro endorsements. The performance gap is real but smaller than the price gap suggests.
Which under-$100 paddle is best for spin?
The Gamma Needle Graphite has a textured surface that adds spin. At the high end of this price range, look for paddles with raw carbon face options — they generate the most spin of any surface material.
Should I buy a used paddle instead of a new under-$100 paddle?
New under-$100 paddles are preferable to used paddles unless the used paddle is from a premium brand in good condition. Paddle cores compress over time — you can't always tell the condition of a used paddle's core without playing with it.
Are under-$100 paddles USAPA approved for tournament play?
Many are. Check the USAPA approved paddle list before entering a tournament. Selkirk, Engage, and Paddletek products at this price range are generally approved.
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