Best Pickleball Rackets For Beginners – Experts Picked

As a beginner, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right racket. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect fit for your game. 

If you’re a beginner looking to take your pickleball game to the next level, let me personally recommend the Selkirk Amped Epic. This racket has been a total game-changer for me, and I can’t recommend it enough. From the moment I started using it, I felt a significant improvement in my performance on the court.

We’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best pickleball rackets for beginners. Whether you’re looking for power, control, or a combination of both, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and discover which racket will take your game to new heights!

Our Top Picks – Best Pickleball Rackets For Beginners

1- Onix Graphite Z5

2- Selkirk Amped Epic

3- Head Radical Elite

4- Gamma Needle Elongated

5- Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro

1- Onix Graphite Z5

The Onix Graphite Z5 is a top contender when it comes to pickleball rackets for beginners. With its combination of power, control, and maneuverability, this racket is sure to elevate your game from the start. With its winning combination of power, control, maneuverability, and comfort, the Onix Graphite Z5 is an excellent choice for beginner players looking to improve their skills on the court.

Trusted Pickleball Gear Supplier

ONIX is a renowned manufacturer of high-performance pickleball paddles, balls, and accessories trusted by players worldwide.

Tennis-inspired Grip 

Mimicking the shape of a tennis racket handle, the Z5 paddle offers a comfortable grip, enhanced spin, and precise control during gameplay.

Honeycomb Core

Combining the ball control of a Nomex core with a medium-weight graphite paddle, the Z5 delivers exceptional touch and responsiveness.

Approved for Tournament Play

The Z5 meets the requirements of USAPA and USA Pickleball, ensuring its eligibility for official tournament use.

Wide body Shape

One standout feature of the Z5 is its widebody shape, which offers a larger sweet spot. This means even if you don’t hit the ball perfectly every time, you’ll still have good control and consistency in your shots.

Pros

• Excellent touch
• Wide sweet spot
• Durable construction
• Easy to hold

Cons

• A Little bit heavy

Customer Reviews

• Gerry: “ Beginner, Seems to be a good racket but I am just a beginner. I like the game so wanted to get more than a beginner racket as I plan to play more.”
• Cat: “Not just for beginners. I like this paddle, it is light weight, with small handle. I have been playing for a year and this is a step up from my beginner paddle.”

2- Selkirk Amped Epic

When it comes to pickleball rackets for beginners, the Selkirk Amped Epic is certainly an option worth considering. This paddle offers a great combination of power and control, making it ideal for players who are just starting out. This is an excellent choice for beginner players looking to improve their game. Its combination of power, control, comfort, and durability make it a reliable option on the pickleball court.

Composite Pickleball Paddle

The Amped paddle pioneers an advanced FiberFlex Fiberglass face, generating unmatched ball spin while effortlessly countering opponents’ spin with accuracy.

X5 Honeycomb 

The revolutionary Polypropylene X5 Core reduces vibrations, resulting in a smoother feel and consistent speed during gameplay.

USAPA Approved

Selkirk Pickleball paddles are tested and approved by the United States of America Pickleball Association, making them suitable for tournament play at both US and international events.

Epic Design

The Epic Amped paddle features a traditional shape with a long handle and a large hitting surface, providing a perfect balance of power and control for players who prefer two-handed swings.

Pros

• Vibration dampening 
• Fiberflex facing
• Larger sweet spot
• Comfortable grip

Cons

• Over priced

Customer Reviews

• David Davis: ” Better than beginners paddle, This is not the top paddle but better than wood paddles. Use this paddle as your beginner paddle…don’t waist your money on beginner equipment. Over all this was a very good purchase and I’d do it again.”
• PattieCakes: “Great Paddle for upgrade Beginner Pickleball player! So far this is an upgrade to my skill level from beginner. Comfortable hand grip and a little thicker than my previous paddle which seems to help with control. 

3- Head Radical Elite

The Head Radical Elite is a fantastic option for beginner pickleball players looking to take their game to the next level. With its lightweight design and responsive feel, this racket provides excellent control and maneuverability on the court. As a beginner looking for a high-quality pickleball racket that offers both control and power, look no further than the Head Radical Elite. It’s an excellent choice that will help elevate your game from day one!

Improved Core Structure

The OTC polypropylene honeycomb core is engineered for perfect playability, feel, and sound, catering to players of all skill levels.

Reinforced Hitting Face

The CHS offers maximized power with a softer feel, enhancing playability for players at any level. It also provides increased comfort on impact.

Ergo Grip

The unique ergonomic foam handle by HEAD offers added comfort and improved feel, allowing for better control and maneuverability during gameplay.

Pros

• Balanced power and playability
• Enhanced comfort
• Improved playability
• Light weight

Cons

• Reduced texture for spin abilities

Customer Reviews

• DUKE D NGUYEN: “ Good for beginners, but pricey! A good paddle for beginners. Good grip handle. Price on the paddle is high for a beginner to mid level paddle. Over, good paddle.
• Bob: “ Beginner, Never played pickle ball just starting so to me this is a quality paddle and I am sure will serve its purpose quite well.

4- Gamma Needle Elongated

Gamma Needle Elongated is another great option for beginners looking to enhance their pickleball game. This paddle offers a unique combination of power and control, making it perfect for players who are still developing their skills on the court. If you’re a beginner looking for a reliable pickleball racket that offers both power and precision, then consider giving the Gamma Needle Elongated a try! Its lightweight design combined with its elongated shape makes it an ideal choice for players who want to take their game to the next level.

Well-Balanced Structure

Weighing just 7.6 ounces, the paddle allows for agile and swift hand motions at the kitchen line.

Sensa Poly Core Technology

The innovative Sensa Poly Core enhances touch, enabling players to maintain consistent control over their shots.

Comfort Grip Handle

With a comfortable grip size and well-balanced construction, the Gamma Needle ensures maximum comfort and minimal strain on your arm. This can be particularly beneficial for beginners who might not have developed strong wrist strength yet.

Graphite Hitting Area

The RZR model features an industry-leading textured graphite face, promoting touch, control, and improved ball placement from the baseline.

Pros

• Lightweight 
• Agile design
• Enhanced touch and control
• Perfect fr every skill level

Cons

• Warranty issue
• Not that durable

Customer Reviews

• SAY: “Good balance and good step up from beginner paddles, I like everything in the Gamma line, and after trying a friend’s version of this paddle, I felt it was the best step up for me from my beginner paddle. As a 3.25-ish player, this gives me a good balance of power and spin. I’ve had the paddle for several months and it still gives me joy to play with it. The grip, while replaceable, is starting to wear so I took off one star for that because I’d prefer that the paddle came with a more durable grip.
• RD: “ Wife loves it.” Great pickle Ball paddle for beginners and advanced players 👌”

5- Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro

The Paddletek Pickleball Paddle is a high-performance paddle designed to deliver unmatched accuracy, power, and forgiveness. With its smart response technology and large, consistent sweet spot, this paddle adds finesse to every shot. The balanced weight increases speed and maneuverability, making it an excellent choice for strategic players aiming for precision and control. With its professional-grade construction and features, this is ideal for beginners who are looking to reach the highest levels of performance.

Optimal Control 

The Tempest Wave Pro offers exceptional control, allowing players to place the ball exactly where they want it with unmatched accuracy.

Exceptional Control

Prioritizing precision and speed, this paddle enables players to have unparalleled control and accuracy, making it an ideal choice for strategic players.

Superior Power and Performance Blend

Designed for professional play, this paddle delivers the power and performance needed to excel at the highest levels of competition. The large, consistent sweet spot adds finesse to every shot, while the balanced weight enhances speed and maneuverability.

Smart Reactivity System

Featuring smart response technology, this paddle provides a driving force behind explosive, yet controlled hits. The textured graphite surface further enhances control and delivers an extraordinary level of playability.

Pros

• Unmatched accuracy
• Power and forgiveness
• Large sweet spot

Cons

• Not that much durable
• Soft spot too small and not great for spin

Customer Reviews

• mac poe: “Excellent pickleball paddle for beginners or advanced players Excellent pickleball paddle. Very pleased it’s performance.”
• Michael Stovsky: “Awesome PaddleThe Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro is in my view the finest paddle made. It is a nearly perfect balance of power and touch. The graphite surface is unbelievable soft and provides incredible feel and spin. It will immediately help to elevate the game of any player from beginner to pro.”

Buyer Guide for Pickleball Rackets For Beginners

So, you’ve decided to jump into the exciting world of pickleball and now you’re in search of the perfect racket to get started. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for beginners like yourself. But fret not! This buyer guide is here to help you navigate through the sea of choices.
When selecting a pickleball racket as a beginner, there are a few key factors that you should consider. 

Weight

Weight plays a significant role in your overall experience on the court. Lighter rackets tend to offer more maneuverability and control, making them ideal for beginners who are still honing their technique.

Grip Size

The other important feature is grip size. It’s crucial to find a racket with a grip that feels comfortable in your hand. Too small or too big of a grip can affect your ability to properly hold and swing the racket, potentially leading to discomfort or even injury.

Material

Next up is paddle material. Graphite paddles provide excellent power and control but may come at a higher price point compared to composite options which offer durability while being budget-friendly.

Design Aesthetics

Don’t forget about design aesthetics! While it may not directly impact performance, finding a racket that suits your personal style can add an extra layer of enjoyment during gameplay.
Now armed with this buyer guide knowledge on weight, grip size, material choice, and design preferences – go forth confidently in choosing the best pickleball racket for beginners like yourself!
Remember – practice makes perfect! Happy playing!

Personal Recommendation

When it comes to choosing the best pickleball racket for beginners, my personal recommendation is the Selkirk Amped Epic. This paddle has all the features that make it ideal for newcomers to the sport.
The Selkirk Amped Epic offers a perfect balance of power and control, allowing beginners to develop their skills without feeling overwhelmed. Its midweight design provides stability and maneuverability, making it easy to handle on the court.
Moreover, the Selkirk Amped Epic boasts a durable build with high-quality materials that can withstand regular use. This means that your investment will last longer and provide reliable performance as you progress in your pickleball journey.
I highly recommend the Selkirk Amped Epic for beginner players seeking a reliable and versatile racket that will help them improve their game while having fun on the court.

Conclusion

We explored the best pickleball rackets for beginners, discussing their features and suitability for novice players. These options offer excellent performance and value, making them ideal for those starting out or looking to upgrade. Factors to consider when choosing a racket include weight, grip size, balance, and material construction that aligns with your playing style. Remember to practice consistently to improve your skills and enjoy the exciting world of pickleball!

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