Best Pickleball Paddles In 2023 & 2024: Newest Paddle Releases And Reviews

Kerry Pittenger, the eyes behind the lens at Pickleball Portal.

Are you looking to upgrade your equipment or try something new? You’re in luck because the latest list of new pickleball paddles to hit the market in the past year is now available. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the following list features some of the best pickleball paddles in 2024.

This marks the seventh year that the list has been published, and it is frequently updated with new paddles released by major pickleball paddle brands. Manufacturers are continuously improving the materials used for both the internal paddle core and hitting surface, resulting in paddles that are lighter, more durable, and offer better performance than ever before.

While this is excellent news for pickleball enthusiasts, the sheer number of options on the market can make it challenging to choose the right paddle. With so many factors to consider, such as personal preference, weight, grip size, playing style, budget, and skill level, it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. Luckily, the list provides players with a shorter list of paddles to consider and a helpful guide to ensure you choose the best paddle for your needs. If you’re new to pickleball or haven’t bought a paddle in a while, check out our detailed pickleball paddle buyers guide before purchasing your next paddle.

(Picture @nitesh)

Pickleball Ape Proline S

View at JustPaddles with discount code PORTAL

After testing the Pickleball Ape Proline S paddle, comparing it with my previous Six Zero Ruby, the transition felt smooth. The Proline S, with its carbon fiber and Kevlar blend, offered a noticeable boost in spin and power, making it a compelling alternative. It’s more affordable and readily available than the Ruby, plus comes with a solid warranty. Personally, I think it’s a great fit for players looking for an edge in spin and power without breaking the bank. Given its features and price point, it’s a worthy consideration for both beginners and intermediates.

Read our in-depth Pickleball Ape Proline S review.

(Illustration Dan Langston)

Franklin Tour

View at Pickleball Central

The Franklin Tour paddle stands out for its high value, significantly undercutting competitors in price without sacrificing quality. It’s a leap forward from previous models, offering improved grit, power, and feel. With options for different shapes, it caters to a wide audience. I found it to be a versatile choice, suitable for players of all levels, especially those looking to upgrade without breaking the bank. It’s not just the price; the performance genuinely impressed me, balancing power, control, and spin effectively. For someone seeking a high-end experience at a mid-range price, this paddle is a smart pick.

Read our in-depth Franklin Tour review.

(Picture Kip Lacey)

Bread & Butter Filth

View at Bread & Butter

The Bread & Butter Filth paddle seems to almost have the best of both worlds, above average power and spin. From my experience, it does take a bit to get used to its unique feel—thanks to its Generation 2 thermoformed design and foam edges, it’s a bit different from your typical paddle. Initially, you might find your shots less predictable, but as you get accustomed to it, the Filth offers impressive power and spin, making it a formidable choice for players looking to enhance these aspects of their game. It’s not for everyone, especially if consistency is your top priority, but for those willing to adapt, it could be a worthy addition to your gear. Given its unique characteristics and potential for improved play, it’s worth considering for players eager to experiment and evolve their skills.

Read our in-depth Bread & Butter Filth review.

(Picture Nitesh Vijay)

Six Zero Diamond Infinity

View at JustPaddles with discount code PORTAL

The Six Zero Diamond Infinity Paddle is a great pick for players who value control and precision in their game. Its design favors accuracy over power, making it ideal for strategic players. However, those who rely on strong, forceful shots might find it lacking in power. Durability is a point of consideration, suggesting it may not withstand rough play without some care. This paddle suits players who enjoy a finesse style of play and are willing to invest in protective measures to extend its lifespan.

Read our in-depth Six Zero Diamond Infinity review.

(picture Kip Lacey)

Gearbox Pro Power

View at JustPaddles

The Gearbox Pro Power paddle is tailored for pickleball players who seek a powerful and precise game. It has a Toray T-700 Carbon surface, helping its strength and shot accuracy. The paddle’s large sweet spot makes it easier to hit effective shots, and it provides clear, vibration-free feedback, even on off-center hits.

While the paddle excels in delivering power and facilitating spin control, especially with top spin and back spin, it does come with a learning curve. It’s essential for players to adapt their technique to harness the paddle’s full potential.

This paddle is particularly suited for players ready to invest time in mastering its unique characteristics, including managing the trampoline effect for consistent play. Its performance at the net is notable because that paddle is easy to move around.

Read our in-depth Gearbox Pro Power review.

(picture Dennis Rodriguez)

HEAD Radical Tour Raw Ex

View at Just Paddles

The HEAD Radical Tour Raw Ex paddle might just be a trailblazer in the realm of pickleball paddles. The paddle launched in November as HEAD’s premiere raw carbon option. I think the simple look is understated. The standout feature is its 15mm thickness – a deviation from the standard 14mm or 16mm – which seems to be a strategic balance between power and control. 

In terms of design, the Raw Ex has an elongated shape with a tapering paddle face, presumably to enlarge the sweet spot while maintaining that elongated feel. The 5.5” handle and Ergo Grip are tailored for tennis veterans or players preferring a two-handed backhand, offering good swing speed and comfort.

After testing, the paddle demonstrates a noticeable improvement in power and pop, because of its unique 15mm thickness. However, it seems to lag slightly with spin compared to other raw carbon paddles on the market. The larger sweet spot improves the soft game (dinks and drops), though adjusting to the raised sweet spot may require some practice.

The HEAD Radical Tour Raw Ex is priced in the $160 range. It’s worth taking a look at for players of all levels, especially those seeking to experiment with a different thickness and design.

Read our in-depth Radical Tour Raw Ex review.

(picture Dennis Rodriguez)

Maverix Havik 16

View at Amazon

Maverix is newer company based out of Southern California. While they only released their Maverix Havik – 16 Power this year, the company itself has been in the works for quite some time. I was able to speak with the owner of the company who stated that countless hours of research have gone into this paddle and after a little over a month of use, it is clear that this company is the real deal! The Maverix Power is a thermoformed paddle with Polyflex™ foam injected into the edge wall. Not as poppy as some of the thermoformed paddles I’ve tested in the past but still enough pop to feel comfortable in a firefight while still maintaining your control when a soft game is required. 

I would recommend the Maverix Havik – 16 Power to the intermediate to advanced level player ready to transition to a more powerful paddle with minimal sacrifice in control. The Maverix Power is an incredibly well balanced paddle with high spin potential. One of the most well rounded paddles I’ve used to date. This paddle is well suited for both doubles and singles.

Read our in-depth Maverix Havik review.

(Image credit: Nick Uzunyan)

Selkirk Project 006

View at Selkirk

The Selkirk Labs Project 006 paddle is a premium, high-performance piece of equipment aimed at seasoned pickleball players. It is designed with an aerodynamic shape and an elongated handle that caters to rapid play and tennis converts respectively, constructed from durable carbon fiber and polypropylene. This paddle, weighing between 8.3-8.7 oz, stands out for its superior spin-generation capabilities, making it a boon for those who wish to inject more spin into their gameplay. Despite not being the most powerful model, its versatility allows it to adapt to various playing styles and situations, from aggressive shots and defensive plays to precise third shot drops. Even though it comes with a price tag of $333, this paddle delivers value for the cost by providing a competitive edge in gameplay.

Read our in-depth Project 006 review.

(Image credit: Dan Langston)

Joola Perseus 14mm

View at JustPaddles

The Perseus paddle has received some criticism from the community, and I’m glad to see that people are holding paddle companies accountable. It’s quite disheartening that someone would charge $250 for a paddle used in a game called “pickleball”, not that pickleball isn’t a series game, but I think there are only extremely small advantages after the $200 mark. However, I must admit that when it comes to maneuverability and speed, the Perseus paddle is really fun to use. Personally, I found using the Perseus to be a breath of fresh air, although it may not deserve to be on the podium. I found it easy to change directions with the 14mm Perseus paddle and catch people off guard cause I can move a lot quicker with it. I particularly appreciate its ease in executing flick shots. This is especially convenient for someone like me who prefers not to bend down and swing but instead rely on a quick arm flick.

Read our in-depth Joola Perseus 14mm review.

(Image credit: Dennis Rodriguez)

SLK Halo Power XL

View at Just Paddles
View at Pickleball Central

Selkirk’s SLK Halo line of paddles is their first Raw Carbon series and has been a hit in the pickleball industry. This paddle almost always sells out within in days of being restocked. We wanted to see what all the hype was about and why some of today’s top pros are using it. After a few months of demoing this paddle, it is obvious that Selkirk is on to something!

The Halo Power XL is one of four versions that Selkirk released. This line also includes the Halo Power Max, Control Max, and Control XL. The Power series is their 13mm version and the Control series is their 16mm. The XL is Selkirk’s elongated shape with a narrower face yet overall longer paddle while the Max is their wider face with a slightly bigger sweet spot.

This is an exceptionally well built and good looking paddle at a reasonable price point for today’s standards. The T700 Raw Carbon face allows the Halo Power XL to have optimal spin potential and control. Its 13mm design allows for the pop and power required at the higher level.

After about four months of use, this paddle has proven itself to be a force to be reckoned with. The quality is second to none and its durability stands up against even the hardest hitter. I have seen minimal signs of wear and almost no change in the Halo Power’s feel or spin. Overall this paddle is a great fit for the player desiring a bit more power without the sacrifice of control. I would recommend the Halo series of paddles for all skill levels and would definitely keep the Power XL in my bag.

Read our in-depth Halo Power XL review.

(image credit: Dennis Rodriguez)

Electrum Model E

View at JustPaddles

The Electrum Model E, the paddle of choice for the #1 Mens Doubles Player in the world, Collin  Johns. A paddle built for the defensive player that emphasizes control over power. Electrum has only ever made three Pickleball paddle models, but as the saying goes, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix  it.” This paddle is a beauty and consists of that Raw T700 Carbon Fiber that is built to last. 

With it’s simplistic look and sturdy feel, the paddle immediately gives you confidence in its quality. It shows that Electrum did not feel the need to attract their buyers with large colorful logos or fancy designs, they let the paddle speak for itself. With a fairly large sweet spot and being very forgiving on mishits, this paddle is suited for the player focused on consistency and  lessening unforced errors. Great for both beginners and advanced players.  

As a control focused paddle, you will not get the power and pop you may be used to, however, you will find this paddle to out perform most in the drop, dink, and reset department! Being a bit head heavy, the power at the baseline was great yet lacked at the non volley zone. After a few months of use, this paddle has proven to be extremely durable. Minimal signs of wear and no change in feel or spin. Overall this paddle is ideal for players who are focusing on their consistency both at the net and at the baseline. If you want power and pop to handle fast  firefights at the kitchen, I would recommend the Electrum Model E 13mm. Less thickness  equates to more power, however you may sacrifice a bit of control. Consistency is key in Pickleball and if you want to be a beast at the kitchen line, this one is probably up your alley.

Read our in-depth Electrum Model E review.

(picture Dennis Rodriguez)

Volair Mach 1

View at JustPaddles

Pickleball pro Julian Arnold’s catchphrase ‘ANDIAMO!’ epitomizes excitement in the game, much like the gear from his brand Volair. Amid a crowded market, what makes their paddles stand out?

Testing the paddle, its familiarity struck me. It offered more pop and power than other 16mm raw carbon paddles, reminding me of the Ben Johns Joola Hyperion. Side-by-side comparison revealed striking similarities in shape, grip, and feel, suggesting it as a more affordable alternative.

The Volair Mach 1 quickly became my go-to. Suitable for 4.5-5.0 level players, it balances control and touch with adequate power. It excels in both singles and doubles, serving all player levels with its versatility.

This paddle leans towards control, a crucial factor in doubles. My serves improved significantly, challenging opponents with difficulty in returns. Its durability impressed me too, especially with its T700 Carbon Fiber face resisting wear from sand exposure.

I recommend the Volair Mach 1 for those prioritizing control and spin, ideal for blocks, resets, and drops. For players seeking sheer power, a more power-focused paddle might be preferable. The choice depends on your playing style.

Read our in-depth Volair paddle review.

(picture Dan Langston)

Joola Vision

View at JustPaddles

Many paddles I’ve tried have grips too thin and short for my larger hands, often leading to slipping. But the Vision paddle was a delightful find with its perfectly sized grip. Its carbon paddle face, akin to the Electrum Pro, impressed me enough to consider it for our best paddles for spin list. Yet, its all-round excellence earned it a spot on this list.

The Vision’s standout feature is its longer dwell time. The ball stays on the paddle longer during swings, enhancing control and accuracy. This benefits beginners by making shot placement more predictable and aiding faster learning. Advanced players benefit too, pulling off intricate, high-powered shots with ease.

The Vision’s popularity among pros can be attributed to its foam-injected handle reducing vibration and improving feedback, its standard 16mm thickness with a larger hitting area, and the carbon grip surface. Ben Johns’ engineering background and status as a top pickleball player led to his partnership with Joola, a renowned Ping Pong brand. Their collaboration combines insider knowledge with Joola’s resources, resulting in paddles that are functional, visually appealing, and stand out in a saturated market.

The Vision has become my go-to paddle, and I confidently recommend it to players of all types for its versatility.

Read our in-depth Joola Vision review.

(picture Dan Langston)

Selkirk Invikta Power Air

View at JustPaddles

If you don’t know Selkirk, you will soon enough! As one of the leading pickleball companies in the Nation, Selkirk really does seem to be becoming the face of this sport. With the support of top pros such as Tyson Mcguffin, “the most electrifying man in sports”, Selkirk seems to be rising to the top quickly. BUT is this just good advertising or is this company the real deal?

I have to admit, the paddles from this brand are stunning, and among them, the Invikta Power Air stands out as the most attractive one. Its design is sleek and modern, and the unusual hole at the bottom adds a touch of playfulness that’s hard to resist. However, it’s worth noting that this paddle is not ideal for beginners. It’s better suited for experienced players who come from other racket sports or are at a high level in pickleball (4.0+). Nevertheless, if you’re a 3.5 player and willing to put in the effort to master it, you can still use it effectively.

As a “power paddle” this thing is a beast for singles! I have played against very high level singles players who were using this paddle and the amount of pace and spin they were able to generate from the baseline was unlike anything I had seen in previous paddles. However, it’s not perfect – this paddle’s weakness lies in the soft game of doubles, especially at the kitchen. Resets can be challenging due to its poppy feel, and dinking takes some getting used to, but it’s certainly achievable with some reps and drilling. Surprisingly, counter attacks are a breeze with this paddle, as long as you keep your backswing in check.

While the paint may start to chip off pretty quickly, the paddle itself is built to last. After using it consistently for over a month, I didn’t notice any change in its spin or power – it held up like a champ. That being said, this paddle is perfect for players who are transitioning from other racket sports or those who enjoy singles and like to hit hard drives. I would keep this in my bag for singles play but, in my opinion, I would not use this in my doubles game. As someone who came from tennis, I know how to generate my own power and would prefer a much softer and less “poppy” feel.

Read our in-depth Selkirk Invikta Power Air review.

If you have any paddles in particular that you want us to review, please let us know in the comments below. We will be adding new reviews to the list in the coming weeks so stay tuned.

Also you can check out Pickleball Central for the latest releases. You can even find paddles that are going to be released in the near future.