When it comes to pickleball paddles, there are several factors to consider, including weight, size, shape, and material. However, the most crucial factor for control players is the paddle’s ability to provide precise and accurate shots.
Control paddles are designed to help players maintain control over the ball, making them an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate players.
When looking for the best control pickleball paddle under $100, paying attention to the paddle’s weight and balance is essential. A lighter paddle can be easier to maneuver, while a heavier paddle can provide more power.
The balance of the paddle can also affect your performance, with a head-heavy paddle providing more power and a handle-heavy paddle offering more control.
We’ll review some of the best control pickleball paddles available for under $100.
We’ve tested and evaluated each paddle based on its construction, weight, balance, and overall performance.
Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, we’re confident that one of these paddles will help you improve your game and take your pickleball skills to the next level.
Best Control Pickleball Paddles Under $100
We understand that finding a high-quality pickleball paddle under $100 can be daunting. That’s why we’ve researched for you and rounded up the best control pickleball paddles under $100.
Our list includes paddles that are durable, lightweight, and have a comfortable grip. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, these paddles will help you improve your game without breaking the bank.
So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best control pickleball paddles under $100.
1. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CGS Pickleball Paddle
If you’re looking for a pickleball paddle that offers both spin and power, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CGS Pickleball Paddle might be the one for you.
This professional pickleball paddle is designed to improve your game with its unique features. The CGS surface technology allows for increased ball bite to help keep your shots on target while the Response Polymer Core provides reduced vibrations and a boost in power.
The Aero-Curve design and elongated 5.5″ grip offer optimal acceleration on your drives with plenty of room for those two-handed backhand swings.
The Durable EdgeGuard technology helps extend the life of your pickleball racket while the SureGrip pickleball handle wrap provides added comfort and sweat absorption.
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CGS Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for players looking to improve their spin and power.
While it might be a bit heavy and pricey for some, its unique features make it worth the investment for serious players.
Pros
- The Carbon Grip Surface (CGS) technology provides excellent ball bite for increased spin on your shots.
- The Aero Curve head design creates less drag and increases swing speed, making accelerating your drives and two-handed backhand swings easier.
- The Sure-Grip technology offers a perforated anti-slip ridge grip, reducing moisture from the handle’s surface for an enhanced grip and increased shock absorption.
Cons
- The paddle might be too heavy for some players, weighing in at 0.49 pounds.
- The handle might be too large for players with smaller hands.
- The price might be a bit steep for those on a tight budget.
2. A’Ardia Pickleball Paddle
If you’re looking for a pickleball paddle that offers great control and spin, the A’Ardia Pickleball Paddle is definitely worth considering.
This paddle is perfect for beginners and intermediate players who want to improve their control and spin. The honeycomb core and fiberglass surface work together to provide a lightweight yet sturdy paddle that offers great performance. The grip is comfortable and provides a good feel when hitting the ball.
The A’Ardia Pickleball Paddle is also manufactured to provide full spin control and excellent grip, making it easier to hit those tricky shots. The paddle is suitable for all ages and skill levels, so the whole family can enjoy the game together and feel like pros.
One downside of this paddle is that some may find the grip size to be too small. Additionally, advanced players may find that the paddle lacks power compared to other models.
However, for the price point, this paddle is an excellent option for those looking to improve their control and spin.
If you’re looking for a pickleball paddle that offers great control and spin at an affordable price, the A’Ardia Pickleball Paddle is definitely worth checking out.
Pros
- Lightweight honeycomb core with fiberglass surface for better control
- Manufactured to provide full spin control and excellent grip
- Lightweight but sturdy for great durability and performance
Cons
- Some may find the grip size to be too small
- Not suitable for advanced players
- May not be as powerful as other paddles
3. Quantum Pickleball Paddle JC003
Looking for a great pickleball paddle that won’t break the bank? The Quantum Pickleball Paddle JC003 from PICKLETECH is a solid option that can help take your game to the next level.
The Quantum Pickleball Paddle JC003 is designed to help advanced beginners take their game to the next level.
With a focus on friction, spin, and agility, this paddle is perfect for players who want to put a little extra spin on their shots and improve their overall control.
One of the standout features of this paddle is its featherweight construction. Weighing in at just 6.9-7.4 ounces, the Quantum Pickleball Paddle JC003 is incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver. This makes it a great option for players who want to increase their speed and agility on the court.
Another great feature of this paddle is its carbon friction surface, which allows for increased grip and spin. This can be especially helpful when you need to put a little extra spin on your shots, particularly backspin shots.
While the thicker grip may not be comfortable for all players, the foam-forged handle does provide additional comfort and reduces maximum damping.
Additionally, the precision-cut polypropylene core helps to muffle the sound output, which some players may find less annoying than typical paddles.
Overall, if you’re an advanced beginner looking for a solid pickleball paddle that won’t break the bank, the Quantum Pickleball Paddle JC003 from PICKLETECH is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Designed with a focus on friction, spin, and agility
- Featherweight construction for increased speed and agility
- Carbon friction surface allows for improved grip and spin
Cons
- Thicker grip may not be comfortable for all players
- Sound output is lower pitched, which may be less satisfying for some players
- Some players may prefer a heavier paddle for more power
4. JOOLA Radius Pro Pickleball Paddle
If you are looking for a pickleball paddle that offers maximum control and spin, the JOOLA Radius Pro Pickleball Paddle is a great option.
The JOOLA Radius Pro Pickleball Paddle is a great option for players wanting maximum control and ball spin.
The precision of your shots will be made easier to place thanks to the excellent grip and control the Carbon Grip Surface, Technology, and Honeycomb Core provide.
The paddle may not have enough power for players who prefer a more aggressive playing style, though.
Players with larger hands may also have difficulty with grip size, which can limit their ability to play for long periods of time.
Finally, some players have reported durability issues with the paddle, such as the carbon face splitting after a short period of use. The JOOLA Radius Pro Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for players who prioritize control and spin over power.
Pros
- The Carbon Grip Surface technology provides excellent grip and spin on the ball, making it easier to control your shots.
- The honeycomb core of the paddle reduces vibration and increases control, providing a comfortable feel while playing.
- The Sure-Grip technology offers a perforated anti-slip ridge grip that reduces moisture from the handle’s surface for an enhanced grip and increased shock absorption.
Cons
- Some players have reported that the paddle lacks power, which may concern those who prefer a more aggressive playing style.
- The grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands, affecting their ability to play comfortably for extended periods.
- Some players have reported durability issues with the paddle, such as the carbon face splitting after a short period of use.
5. SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles
If you’re looking for an affordable pickleball paddle that offers ultimate control, the SLK Neo 2.0 Paddle by Selkirk Sport is definitely worth considering.
At Selkirk, we pride ourselves on creating the ultimate paddle for players of all levels. The SLK Neo 2.0 Paddle combines the latest technology with comfort, balance, and affordability.
Our new G4 Control Graphite Surface gives you ultimate game control, while the SpinFlex Textured Surface ensures increased spin consistency and ball control, providing an unbeatable playing experience.
Our SLK Neo 2.0 Paddle features the new SpinFlex Textured Surface, integrated with our improved Polymer SX4 13mm Core. The thicker core offers more control and a larger sweet spot, while our honeycomb core technology absorbs hits and softens the feel, resulting in consistent speed and accuracy.
With the new SpinFlex Textured Surface, you’ll experience increased spin consistency and ball control, giving you the edge over your opponents.
We understand the importance of balance and performance in a paddle. That’s why our SLK Neo 2.0 Pickleball Paddle weighs only 7.5 ounces, making it perfectly balanced between lightweight and medium-weight paddles. It’s the ideal paddle for the next generation of pickleball players who demand high performance.
We know that comfort is vital when it comes to playing pickleball. That’s why our SLK Neo 2.0 Pickleball Paddle features an Ultra-Comfort Grip material that absorbs sweat and impacts as they travel from the paddle face to the hand.
Our 4.25″ grip circumference and 5.25″ length provide the highest comfort level, allowing you to play without fatigue after long gameplay intervals. Choose Selkirk Sport and play with comfort and confidence.
All Selkirk paddles are USAPA Tested and Approved for Tournament Pickleball Play at US and international pickleball events. If you’re enjoying the sport and want to take your game to the next level by competing in tournaments, SLK by Selkirk Paddles have you covered.
Pros
- The G4 Control Graphite Surface provides ultimate control of your game.
- The thicker Polymer SX4 13mm Core offers more control and a larger sweet spot.
- The Ultra-Comfort Grip material absorbs perspiration and impacts for a comfortable playing experience.
Cons
- Some players may prefer a heavier paddle for more power.
- The SpinFlex Textured Surface may take some time for players who are used to a smooth surface.
- The grip size may be different for players with larger hands.
6. Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle
If you’re looking for an affordable pickleball paddle that offers superior ball control and a large sweet spot, the Onix Graphite Z5 is a great option to consider.
With its graphite face and nomex core, the Z5 offers excellent touch and ball control, making it a great choice for players of all skill levels.
The tennis handle shape provides a comfortable grip and great spin and control during play, while the widebody shape ensures a large sweet spot for consistent hits.
While some players may prefer a heavier paddle for more power, the Z5 perfectly balances power and speed with a total weight of 7.5-8.2 ounces. However, advanced players looking for a high-end paddle may want to consider other options.
Overall, the Onix Graphite Z5 is a great choice for anyone looking for a quality pickleball paddle that won’t break the bank.
With its excellent ball control, comfortable grip, and USAPA/USA Pickleball approval, it’s a solid choice for players of all skill levels.
Pros
- Mimics the handle shape of a tennis racket, making it comfortable to use
- Nomex honeycomb core provides amazing ball control in a medium-weight graphite paddle
- USAPA/USA Pickleball approved for official tournament play
Cons
- Some players may prefer a heavier paddle for more power
- May not be suitable for advanced players looking for a high-end paddle
- The edge guard may not be as durable as some other paddles
7. Gonex Pickleball Paddles
Suppose you’re looking for an affordable pickleball paddle set that offers a great balance of accuracy, durability, and comfort. In that case, the Gonex Pickleball Paddles might be a good choice for you.
The Gonex Pickleball Paddles are designed to offer a good balance of accuracy, durability, and comfort.
The graphite surface and internal polymer honeycomb provide excellent accuracy and durability, while the centered balance point increases hitting power and better control.
The lightweight design and comfortable grip make switching between forehand and backhand shots easy, and the paddle set comes with a carry bag for easy transport.
One potential downside of the Gonex Pickleball Paddles is that some users may find the grip circumference too small or too large for their hands.
Furthermore, the included balls may be of lower quality, so you may want to buy extra balls separately.
While the edge protection is intended to increase durability, some users may discover that it wears out faster than they would like.
The Gonex Pickleball Paddles could be a good option for you if you are searching for a budget-friendly pickleball paddle set that offers good accuracy, toughness, and comfort.
Pros
- The graphite surface and internal polymer honeycomb provide excellent accuracy and durability.
- The balance point is centered, allowing for increased hitting power and better control.
- The lightweight design and comfortable grip make switching between forehand and backhand shots easy.
Cons
- Some users may find the grip circumference too small or too large.
- The included balls may be of lower quality.
- The edge protection may not be as durable as some users would like.
Buying Guide
When choosing a pickleball paddle, there are a few key features to look at to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some things to consider:
Weight
The weight of a pickleball paddle can impact your game. A heavier paddle can provide more power but can also be more difficult to maneuver.
On the other hand, a lighter paddle can be easier to control but may provide less power. It’s important to find a comfortable weight for you to use for an extended period of time.
Grip
The grip of a pickleball paddle can impact your comfort and control. A grip that is too small can cause your hand to slip, while a grip that is too large can be uncomfortable to hold.
Look for a paddle with a grip that feels comfortable in your hand and allows you to maintain control of the paddle.
Material
The material of a pickleball paddle can impact its durability and performance. Common materials include wood, composite, and graphite.
Wood paddles are typically the most affordable, but may not last as long as other materials. Composite paddles are a good middle ground, balancing durability and performance.
Graphite paddles are typically the most expensive, but they are also the most durable and provide the best performance.
Shape
The shape of a pickleball paddle can impact its performance. A wider paddle can provide more surface area for hitting the ball but can also be more difficult to maneuver.
A narrower paddle can be easier to control, but may provide less surface area for hitting the ball. Finding a shape that works well for your play style is important.
When choosing a pickleball paddle under $100, look for a paddle that is comfortable to hold, provides good control and power, and is made from durable materials.
Keep in mind your personal preferences and play style when making your selection.
Notice: Please be advised that the current prices are subject to change in the future. As a result, you may encounter pricing variations from your initial expectations.
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