Purchasing pickleball paddles of superior quality at a reasonable cost has never been easier. The $100 range is full with great alternatives, due to the numerous top brands offering fantastic options. These choices demonstrate you don’t have to spend lots of money to get excellent paddle, with spin-focused designs .
View our list of the top 5 paddles under $100 to understand why players of all skill levels need these affordable choices.
Which paddle is best for you?
Finding the best pickleball paddle that fits your needs and playing style is crucial before making your purchase. We have therefore created a best purchase guide to assist you in evaluating all of your options. This ensures you make the ideal decision for your game by reviewing recommendations for the top paddles based on your play style and price range.
List of Best pickleball paddles under $100 in 2025
Vatic Pro PRISM Flash
Paddletek Bantam TS-5
Six Zero Sapphire
Vatic Pro PRISM V7
Bison Summit
Vatic Pro PRISM Flash Best overall
At Amazone
Buy If:
- You want an all-court paddle: The PRISM Flash excels as a versatile, all-court paddle, offering top-notch control, plenty of spin, and decent power.
- Control is your priority: This paddle is ideal for players who value precision. It scored a 10/10 for control, making it exceptional for dinks, drops, and resets.
- You’re not focused on big-name brands: If brand recognition isn’t a priority, the PRISM Flash performs as well as high-end paddles from brands like JOOLA or Selkirk.
Pass If:
- You want a paddle with more power: The PRISM Flash is control-oriented. If you need more power, check out the Six Zero Sapphire.
- You’re a beginner: For new players, a paddle like the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 may be easier to handle and more beginner-friendly.
- You prefer thermoformed paddles: If you’re looking for a thermoformed option, consider the Vatic Pro Flash, a variation of this paddle.
| Specification | Details |
| Paddle Weight | 7.7-7.9 oz (14 mm paddle) / 7.9-8.2 oz (16 mm paddle) |
| Paddle Length | 16 ⅓” |
| Paddle Width | 7 ⅔” |
| Handle Length | 5 ⅓” |
| Grip Circumference | 4 ⅛” |
| Paddle Face Material | Raw Toray T700 carbon fiber |
| Core Material | Polymer honeycomb |
| Core Thickness | 14 mm or 16 mm (0.55″ or 0.63″) |
| Sweet Spot | Medium |
I have never used a better pickleball paddle under $100 than this one. To be honest, I’m shocked that it doesn’t cost more than $150. Made from raw carbon fiber, it offers remarkable control, powerful spin, and strength. No other inexpensive paddle, in my opinion, even comes close.
Who it’s for
For those looking for an all-court paddle that emphasizes control first, the PRISM Flash is ideal. For intermediate and advanced players who prioritize touch and accuracy, it’s perfect. When required, its excellent spin and precise the correct amount of force allow an aggressive playing style.
Features
This paddle’s Toray T700 carbon fiber material makes it extremely durable. The paddle’s body smoothly blends into the handle due to its solid design. It also has foam-injected walls, which are a hallmark of premium paddles from companies like CRBN and JOOLA. Players who prefer a softer touch over the more durable sensation of a thermoformed design will love this paddle’s soft feel, which is crucial to note because it is not a thermoformed paddle.
Design and feel
It has a rather basic look, but its feel is what really makes it stand out. This paddle feels much more high-end than its price shows right out of the box. Through several high-level sessions, it performed incredibly well on the court, and I would definitely think about joining a tournament with it.
Performance
Let’s begin with the drawbacks. It’s interesting that this paddle has some head heaviness considering how light it is. The sweet spot is another drawback; it’s not as reliable as the majority of expensive paddles, which has ended up in a few more mishaps than I would desire.
You’ll find one of the greatest control paddles available, though, if you are okay with these problems. I have great precision when performing strikes, drops, and dinks. My touching game is greatly improved by the plush, smooth feel.
Additionally, the spin is amazing. I can produce the same powerful sidespin, backspin, and topspin as I get from premium raw carbon fiber paddles. Even though the power isn’t excessive, it’s more than sufficient for my quick playing style.
Value for money
This paddle, in my opinion, is not only the greatest pickleball paddle under $100, but it also provides the best value. It functions similarly to expensive models like the Gearbox CX14E Ultimate Power ($250) and the Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control ($180), but at a significantly lower cost.
2. Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Best for beginners
At Amazone
Buy if:
- You’re ready to upgrade from poor-quality beginner paddles: The Bantam is built with premium materials, offering better durability and performance.
- You want a forgiving paddle: With a large sweet spot, mishits are kept to a minimum.
- You need a lightweight control paddle: Weighing in at just 7-7.5 oz, it’s incredibly maneuverable and provides excellent control for your touch game.
Pass if:
- You’ve reached the intermediate level: While this is a great choice for beginners, intermediates might prefer a more advanced option like the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash.
- You’re a power player: If power is your focus, this paddle might not be powerful enough—try the Six Zero Sapphire instead.
- You’re after a lot of spin: If spin is your priority, consider the Bison Summit, my top pick for budget-friendly spin.
| Specification | Details |
| Paddle Weight | 7-7.5 oz |
| Paddle Length | 15 ⅝” |
| Paddle Width | 7 ¾” |
| Handle Length | 5″ |
| Grip Circumference | 4 ¼” |
| Paddle Face Material | Fiberglass |
| Core Material | Polymer honeycomb core |
| Core Thickness | 12.7 mm (½”) |
| Sweet Spot | Large |
In 2025, the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 is not just the greatest starting paddle under $100, but it’s also my top pick for a beginner paddle at any budget. It is the best option for beginners who are learning the game since it provides the right ratio of control to forgiveness. I have never seen a better-built beginner paddle, and it is really easy to use.
Who it’s for
Despite being recommended by world #1 Anna Leigh Waters, I found that it is only appropriate for beginners. Since this model lacks the strength and spin required for high-level play, ALW probably uses a customized, advanced model.
Features
The Bantam is made of strong, long-lasting materials even though it isn’t a thermoformed or carbon fiber paddle. You may be sure you’re getting a top-notch paddle because Paddletek is one of the most reputable pickleball brands. The widebody form, which offers an important sweet spot for extra forgiveness, is one of its prominent features.
Design and feel
The Bantam TS-5 is different from other low-cost paddles, even though it doesn’t feel as special as the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash. It is sturdy and lightweight, providing a pleasant grip that beginner players will appreciate. This paddle offers a great playing experience for beginners.
Performance
My drives and smashes are nearly always on target the ball just wants to go in, which is important for beginners—and I get excellent accuracy with this paddle. It doesn’t have the same advanced touch as the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash, but it manages drops and dinks with ease. This paddle really shines when it comes to forgiveness.
Because of its broad sweet spot, which makes mishits unusual, beginners will feel comfortable using this paddle. In fact, I had trouble hitting even one mishit during several testing sessions. Although I wish it had more spin and strength, this won’t worry beginners too much.
Value for money
With less expensive options like the SLK NEO 2.0 and PCKL Launch Series, some players might be scared off by the $100 price tag, but the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 performs better. It performs better than any other beginner paddle I’ve tried.
This is the ideal beginner paddle if you want the best balance of forgiveness and control. Until you are ready to switch to an intermediate-level paddle, the TS-5 will help you gain confidence and advance your skills.
3. Six Zero Sapphire Best for power
At Amazone
Buy if:
- You want a powerful paddle: This thermoformed paddle delivers serious power, making it a great value for the price.
- You need a power paddle that’s also light: It’s fast and highly maneuverable, unlike many other power paddles.
- You prefer an elongated paddle: With a 16 ½” length, it offers extra reach for your game.
Pass if:
- You need more spin: While it offers good spin, the Bison Summit provides more for the same price.
- You’re a complete beginner: The power might be too much for beginners; try the more beginner-friendly Paddletek Bantam TS-5 instead.
- You play at an advanced level: For high-level players, the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash would be a better budget option.
| Specification | Details |
| Paddle Weight | 7.9-8 oz |
| Paddle Length | 16 ½” |
| Paddle Width | 7 ½” |
| Handle Length | 5 ⅗” |
| Grip Circumference | 4 ¼” |
| Paddle Face Material | 700K Toray carbon |
| Core Material | Polymer honeycomb |
| Core Thickness | 13 mm (½”) |
| Sweet Spot | Large |
The majority of paddles under $100 were designed with beginners in mind until recently. Amazing spin paddles like the Bison Summit and amazing control paddles like the Vatic Pro PRISM V7 are now available in this price range. If power is your goal, the Six Zero Sapphire is definitely something to think about.
Who it’s for
For emerging beginners and new intermediates who want to increase their game in terms of power, I think this paddle is ideal. It is lightweight, has excellent spin and control, and is reasonably priced for intermediate users.
Features
The use of high-tech materials like Toray T700 carbon fiber in more reasonably priced paddles, like the Sapphire, is fantastic because it improves the paddle’s stability and durability over time. The gritty epoxy coating on the paddle face is the only issue; although it offers great spin, I’m not totally sure it will last; only time will tell.
Design and feel
I particularly like the style of the Sapphire sleek, modern, and accompanied with a blast of vivid blue. The “Parti” version stands out even more. It also has the feel of a paddle that is far more costly. It seems to me to be a more reasonably priced variant of the Six Zero DBD Control, which I consider to be the best pickleball paddle of 2025.
Performance
The Six Zero Sapphire is without a doubt the best power paddle under $100 that I have ever used; it delivers deep, quick acts with enough spin and control to play a well-rounded game, but it isn’t as plush as the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash, which is my top choice on this list. The Six Zero Sapphire is a thermoformed paddle, so it is a little stronger, which may turn off some intermediates, especially beginners.
Value for money
This is the best value if you’re searching for a cheap power paddle. This thermoformed paddle has a lot of pop and provides a lot of spin and control.
4. Vatic Pro PRISM V7 Best for control
At Amazone
Buy if:
- You want a top-quality control paddle: This paddle offers excellent control for such an affordable price.
- You like to play with spin: I’m impressed by how much spin I can generate with this paddle.
- You want a durable paddle: Thanks to its unibody design and anti-abrasion edge guard, this paddle will last longer than most budget options.
Pass if:
- You’re looking for something really aerodynamic: You might prefer the Vatic Pro Flash, which has a lighter swing weight.
- You need more power: For power, try the Six Zero Sapphire, the best for power under $100.
- You want a bigger sweet spot: The square-shaped Paddletek Bantam TS-5 might be a better fit for you.
| Specification | Details |
| Paddle Weight | 8.1-8.5 oz |
| Paddle Length | 16 ½” |
| Paddle Width | 7 ½” |
| Handle Length | 5 ⅓” |
| Grip Circumference | 4 ⅛” |
| Paddle Face Material | Raw Toray T700 carbon fiber |
| Core Material | Polymer honeycomb |
| Core Thickness | 16 mm (0.63″) |
| Sweet Spot | Large |
The PRISM V7 has a little more power than the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash, but it performs the same. It continues to be among the greatest control paddles on the market and provides the best pickleball value when combined with the Flash.
Who it’s for
Similar to the PRISM Flash, this paddle is ideal for intermediate players who like an all-court, control-first approach. It will also be appreciated by more experienced players who concentrate on improving their touch skills. It’s control-oriented and has a sizable sweet spot, so I have even seen some beginners enjoying it.
Features
The PRISM V7 is the extended version of the PRISM Series, which is designed for players who prefer non-thermoformed paddles. The unibody designs of these paddles are long-lasting, and the Toray T700 raw carbon fiber used in the paddle face is advanced technology that provides excellent spin. Foam is introduced into the walls to improve control and expand the sweet spot.
Design and feel
Although it’s not the most eye-catching paddle, the PRISM V7’s vivid purple composing makes it slightly more punching than the PRISM Flash. In my opinion, however, a paddle’s feel is far more important, and this one has a high-end, soft feel that makes me think I’m playing with a $200 paddle.
Performance
There are a few small but noticeable distinctions between the PRISM V7 and the PRISM Flash. It’s heavier and has greater power, which is ideal for those who think the PRISM Flash is too mild. Second, there is more reach due to the expanded design. This has a somewhat smaller sweet spot, though.
Other than that, the PRISM V7 offers the same superb control that improves my gameplay, especially my dinks and resets. There is also plenty of spin due to the carbon fiber face.
Although the head heaviness may at times seem a little heavy, the heavier swing weight also gives my general game more power.
Value for money
Along with the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash, I think this is one of the greatest value paddles available to pickleball players. You can acquire a control paddle that matches high-end models from JOOLA and Gearbox, which normally sell for about $250, for about $100.
5. Bison Summit Best for spin
At Amazone
Buy if:
- You’re coming from tennis: Quick and great for spin, this paddle is ideal for former tennis players.
- You’re an intermediate: The Bison Summit is lightweight and packed with spin, perfect for intermediates looking to level up their game.
- You want a long-lasting paddle: Built to last with Toray T700 raw carbon fiber, this paddle offers durability.
Pass if:
- You don’t want an elongated paddle: If you prefer a shorter paddle with great spin, try the hybrid Vatic Pro PRISM Flash.
- You’re a hard hitter: For a pure power paddle, check out the Six Zero Sapphire.
- You want a control paddle: The Vatic Pro PRISM V7 is my top control paddle under $100
| Specification | Details |
| Paddle Weight | 7.8 oz |
| Paddle Length | 16 ½” |
| Paddle Width | 7 ½” |
| Handle Length | 5 ½” |
| Grip Circumference | 4 ⅛” |
| Paddle Face Material | Toray T700 raw carbon fiber |
| Core Material | Honeycomb polymer core |
| Core Thickness | 14 mm (0.55″) |
| Sweet Spot | Medium |
When I initially tested the Bison Summit, I was very impressed because not many paddles under $100 offer amazing spin. Its raw carbon fiber face, which is renowned for producing exceptional spin, is the key to its remarkable spin. You’re getting a good spin paddle for only $99.99.
Who it’s for
This paddle, in my opinion, is ideal for beginners or intermediates who want more spin without paying out more than $150 for a paddle like the Legacy Pro.
Features
The paddle face has exceptional spin potential since it is made up of textured Toray T700 raw carbon fiber. Since it is less likely to break down over time, this material is more durable than paddles that were given grit sprinkled on them.
The extended design of this paddle adds comfort and control for players who love to strike two-handed strikes. The design is also perfect for those who prefer to play aggressively up close because it provides additional reach at the net.
Design and feel
The unique designs of the Bison paddle make it stand out. Bison creates distinctive pictures, such as the mountain range design on the Summit model, by using textured grit in place of a standard black face. It might not be my favorite, but it provides a unique creative touch that makes it stand out.
Players who value speedy responses in kitchen exchanges will love the paddle’s lightweight 7.8 oz design and comfortable, high-quality grip. It could, in my opinion, use a little more weight and force, though, which would worry certain players who like a stronger blow.
Though it’s an effectively built paddle, it’s crucial to remember that it’s not a unibody or thermoformed paddle . This raises some issues regarding its long-term durability, as it may not stand up as well over time compared to other paddles with the same manufacturing attributes.
Performance
The Bison Summit performs as you would expect from a 14 mm paddle, with a satisfying pop with each shot and a ball that flies off the face for a fun and responsive feel. Its light swing speed, great spin potential, and impressive control enable an aggressive style of play, giving you paddle to control the game whether you’re attacking from the baseline or moving fast at the net.
Value for money
I think this paddle is very reasonably priced. I haven’t found any paddles that provide better spin for less than $100 so far. In addition, it stands head and shoulders above beginner paddles in terms of general build and quality. The Bison Summit offers a level of performance and durability that is difficult to match in its pricing range, regardless of your skill level.
