When I played my first indoor game with a clunky wooden paddle, I lasted five minutes before my arm begged for mercy. Lesson learned: your paddle matters—a lot.
So, what are the best beginner indoor paddles?
Lightweight, control-friendly paddles like the Selkirk SLK Evo Soft, JOOLA Essentials, and Onix Z5 are perfect picks to start strong without feeling overwhelmed.
Let’s break down why these paddles are total game-changers for new players—without the arm fatigue and frustration I went through.
Ready? Let’s get into it! 💪🔥
Top 9 Indoor Pickleball Paddles for Beginners
Looking for control, spin, or something budget-friendly? Here’s a quick look at top indoor paddles for beginners to help you find the right fit for your game.
| Paddle Image | Paddle Name | Detailes | View Paddle |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Selkirk SLK Evo Soft |
| Grab It |
 | JOOLA Essentials |
| Grab It |
 | ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle |
| Grab It |
 | Head Radical Elite |
| Grab It |
 | Engage Encore EX 6.0 |
| Grab It |
 | Franklin Ben Johns Signature |
| Grab It |
 | Paddletek Tempest Wave II |
| Grab It |
 | Diadem Riptide |
| Grab It |
 | SLK Atlas XL by Selkirk |
| Grab It |
What Makes a Great Indoor Pickleball Paddle for Beginners?
If you’re new to pickleball, you might be thinking, “A paddle’s a paddle, right?” Not exactly. The key to enjoying the game—especially indoors—starts with getting the right gear. If you’re still figuring things out, check out beginner tips for indoor games.
- Weight: Start light—paddles between 7–8 oz are easier to handle and won’t wear out your arm. I learned the hard way with a heavy one—my arm was toast after a few games!
- Grip: Like a good handshake, the grip should feel just right. Too big or too small, and you’ll feel awkward—or worse, end up with blisters. Comfort is key.
- Control vs. Power: Go for control first. Power comes later. Focus on placing your shots and building consistency—kind of like learning to steer before hitting the gas.
My Top Indoor Pickleball Paddle Picks (Tried and Tested by Yours Truly)
I’ve tested these paddles on indoor courts, and these are my top picks for beginners. Easy to handle, great control, and perfect for learning the game!
1. Selkirk SLK Evo 2.0
Key Features:
- Price: $79.99
- Surface: G8-Flex carbon fiber – great control
- Core: 16mm Rev-Core polymer – big sweet spo
- Weight: ~7.8 oz – light & maneuverable
- Grip Size: 4.25″ – fits most hands
- Shape: Standard – balanced power & control
- Edge Guard: Yes – protects against chips
- Play Style: Ideal for beginners
- Vibe: Smooth feel, great for indoors
Why I Love It:
When I first tried the Selkirk SLK Evo 2.0, I immediately felt the difference in control. It’s got a soft touch that’s perfect for beginners like I once was. Back when I was struggling with my aim, this paddle gave me the accuracy boost I needed.
Pros
- Easy to control – perfect for beginners
- Large sweet spot for consistent hits
- Lightweight and quick in hand
- Comfortable grip for long play
- Durable build for indoor surfaces
Cons
- Less power
- Short handle
- Low spin potential
Personal Story:
When I first upgraded to this paddle, I was struggling with my dinks. I kept hitting the net or overshooting.
The Evo 2.0 helped me dial in those softer shots and gave me the confidence to approach the net more often. Trust me, it’s a game-changer if you’re learning control!
2. JOOLA Essentials
Key Features:
- Price: $41.99
- Core: Polymer honeycomb – balanced feel
- Surface: Fiberglass face – power & spin
- Weight: ~8 oz – solid mix of control and pop
- Grip Size: 4.25″ – comfy and secure
- Shape: Standard – ideal for all-around play
- Edge Guard: Yes – durable protection
- Handle: ~5″ – good for two-handed short
- Feel: Smooth and balanced on court
Why I Love It:
JOOLA is famous for their table tennis gear, and they’ve brought that precision to pickleball. The JOOLA Essentials paddle is all about balance. It’s a great all-rounder that gave me confidence in both defense and offense.
Pros
- Balanced feel, great for both power and control.
- Durable and built to last.
- Comfortable grip for long play sessions.
Cons
- Less power
- Slightly heavy
- Less spin than carbon fiber faces
Personal Story:
I was in a bit of a rut with my paddle selection, bouncing between different brands, when I tried the JOOLA Essentials.
It felt so balanced! I stopped overthinking my shots and just let the paddle do the work. I even won my first tournament game with this beauty!
3. Onix Z5 Graphite
Key Features:
- Price: $69.99
- Core: Nomex honeycomb – strong & durable
- Surface: Graphite – fast, responsive feel
- Weight: 7.5–8.2 oz – solid for power & control
- Grip Size: 4.25″ – comfy for most hands
- Handle Length: ~5″ – supports two-handed play
- Shape: Widebody – large sweet spot
- Edge Guard: Yes – protects from dings
- Play Style: Great for aggressive and all-around players
Why I Love It:
The Onix Z5 Graphite was the first “real” paddle I ever used, and I still have a soft spot for it. This paddle offers a fantastic balance of power and control, and the graphite face makes it super responsive.
Pros
- Super responsive
- Great for quick volleys
- Durable build
- Big sweet spot
- Nice blend of power and touch
Cons
- Slightly heavy for some
- Powerful pop may be tough for beginners
- Can feel stiff compared to softer core paddles
Personal Story:
I played a late-night indoor game with my Onix Z5, and my volleys felt sharper than ever. The quickness of the paddle allowed me to react faster, and I ended up surprising my opponents with my improved game!
4. Head Radical Elite
Key Features:
- Price: $38.70
- Core: Polypropylene – soft feel, less vibration
- Surface: Fiberglass – nice pop and control
- Weight: 7.8 oz – balanced and easy to handle
- Grip Size: 4.25″ – comfy and secure
- Shape: Standard paddle face
- Edge Guard: Yes – adds durability
- Play Style: Best for all-around beginner play
Why I Love It:
I picked up the Head Radical Elite when I wanted a reliable indoor paddle without breaking the bank—and wow, what a steal! It gave me a surprising mix of power and control, and it just feels solid in your hand. Great for casual play or anyone just getting started.
Pros
- Great power/control balance
- Comfortable grip for long games
- Excellent value for the price
- Good choice for casual or rec players
- Solid feel on indoor surfaces
Cons
- Less spin than textured/carbon paddles
- May not suit advanced players
5. Engage Encore EX 6.0
Key Features:
- Price: $95.99
- Core: ControlPro Polymer – power + control
- Surface: FiberTEK face – adds spin
- Grip Size: 4.25″ – comfy, standard fit
- Handle Length: ~5″ – good for two-handed shots
- Edge Guard: Yes – protects from dings
- Shape: Elongated – extra reach
- Play Style: Ideal for developing players
- Durability: Built to last for competitive play
Why I Love It:
Engage paddles are known for their performance, and the Encore EX 6.0 is no different. It’s designed for players who want both power and control, which makes it great for those just starting and looking to improve quickly.
Pros
- Great power/control balance
- Comfortable grip for long games
- Excellent value for the price
- Good choice for casual or rec players
- Solid feel on indoor surfaces
Cons
- Less spin than textured/carbon paddles
- May not suit advanced players
Personal Story:
I picked up this paddle when I felt like I needed an edge in my game. It’s so well-balanced that it quickly became my go-to when I wanted a bit more power without losing control. I used this paddle in my first-ever tournament win!
6. Franklin Ben Johns Signature Paddle
Key Features:
- Price: $64.00
- Core: Polypropylene – smooth control
- Surface: Textured fiberglass – adds power and spin
- Weight: 7.5–8.3 oz
- Grip Size: 4.25″ – fits most hand sizes
- Handle Length: ~5.5″ – nice for two-handed shots
- Edge Guard: Yes – protects against wear
- Shape: Elongated – more reach at the net
- Play Style: Great for power/control hybrids
Why I Love It:
I mean, who doesn’t love using the same paddle as a pro? The Franklin Ben Johns paddle gives you power and precision in one package. It’s incredibly versatile, making it ideal for any beginner who wants a taste of professional-level play.
Pros
- Strong balance of power and control
- Textured face adds spin
- Feels solid and responsive
- Great for developing confidence
- Pro-level design at a mid-range price
Cons
- Power can be tough to control early on
- Elongated shape might take adjustment
Personal Story:
When I first swung this paddle, I remember thinking, “Wow, this is how Ben Johns plays?” It felt powerful but not overwhelming, and I could place shots with such precision. I felt like a pro for those 45 minutes of play!
7. Paddletek Phoenix Genesis
Key Features:
- Price: $199.29
- Core: Polypropylene honeycomb – balanced feel
- Surface: Textured composite – adds control
- Weight: 7.4–7.8 oz – lightweight and quick
- Grip Size: 4.125″ – smaller grip for more control
- Handle Length: ~5″ – solid for one or two-handed shots
- Edge Guard: Yes – protects from damage
- Shape: Standard – balanced reach and surface area
- Play Style: Ideal for control-based players
Why I Love It:
The Phoenix Genesis is one of those paddles that just feels solid in your hand. I love its consistent performance across different types of shots, whether I’m at the baseline or right up at the net.
Pros
- Lightweight with solid power
- Comfortable grip for long games
- Great control and shot placement
- Easy on the arm—great for long play
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Not ideal for spin-heavy play
- A bit pricey for beginners
- Lacks the pop of power-focused paddles
8. Diadem Riptide
Key Features:
- Price: $72.52
- Core: Polymer honeycomb – soft, forgiving
- Surface: Composite – durable control
- Weight: 7.6–8.0 oz – balanced feel
- Grip: 4.25″ – comfy for most hands
- Shape: Widebody – big sweet spot
- Edge Guard: Yes
Why I Love It:
The Diadem Riptide is one of those paddles that surprises you in the best way. It’s affordable, beginner-friendly, and has a wide face that makes hitting the sweet spot feel effortless.
Whether you’re just getting into the game or looking for a reliable backup paddle, this one delivers solid performance without draining your wallet.
Pros
- Easy, consistent contact
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Comfortable grip
- Great value
- Beginner-friendly
Cons
- Limited spin
- Basic for advanced players
Personal Story:
I handed the Riptide to a new player during a clinic, and they instantly started connecting better with the ball. I took a few shots myself—it’s stable, simple, and just works. A perfect paddle to build confidence.
9. SLK Atlas XL by Selkirk
Key Features:
- Price: $63.99
- Core: Rev-Control Polymer – soft touch, stable
- Surface: Raw carbon fiber – great spin & control
- Weight: 7.6–8.1 oz – balanced feel
- Grip: 4.25″ – fits most hands
- Shape: Elongated – extra reach
- Edge Guard: Yes
Why I Love It:
The SLK Atlas XL is the kind of paddle that instantly feels like an upgrade—without the steep price tag. With its extended shape, raw spin surface, and smooth power, it gave me a real sense of control while still delivering that satisfying pop.
For newer players who want something that performs above its price point, this one hits the sweet spot.
Pros
- Extended reach helps with net and baseline play
- Raw carbon face adds noticeable spin
- Nice mix of control and power
- Great value under $70
- Beginner-friendly with pro-level feel
Cons
- Elongated shape may take getting used to
- Slightly heavier feel for some players
Personal Story:
I tried the SLK Atlas XL during a mixed doubles game and instantly noticed how much easier it was to reach tricky volleys and dig out low shots. The control felt smooth, but when I needed to drive the ball, it responded with just the right pop.
It gave me confidence to be aggressive without losing finesse—and that’s rare in a paddle at this price point.
How to Pick the Right Paddle for YOU
With all these great paddles, how do you know which one is right for you? Here’s a quick breakdown based on my own trial-and-error experience:
- For Beginners Who Want Control: Go with the Selkirk SLK Evo 2.0 or the Six Zero Quartz. Both are light, easy to handle, and great for controlling your shots.
- For Players Looking to Improve Fast: Try the Monarch Jelly Bean or the Diadem Warrior Edge. These paddles give you a bit more power without losing the control you need as you improve.
- For Budget-Conscious Players: The Franklin X-1000 or the Six Zero Quartz are both solid options that won’t break the bank but still give you good quality.
Lightweight vs. Heavyweight Paddles
Here’s a little story for you. I once borrowed a friend’s heavyweight paddle for a match. Halfway through, I felt like I’d been arm-wrestling a gorilla. Lesson learned: heavyweight paddles (8+ oz) are powerful but can tire you out quickly.
On the flip side, lightweight paddles (7–8 oz) are a dream for beginners. They’re easier to control, reduce fatigue, and let you focus on perfecting your form.
Pro Tip: If you’re serious about avoiding arm strain, go for a lightweight paddle with a polymer core—it’s soft, forgiving, and perfect for indoor play.
Pickleball Paddle Weight Categories
Let’s break it down:
- Ultra-Lightweight (under 7 oz): Super quick but lacks power. Great for reaction drills.
- Lightweight (7–8 oz): The Goldilocks of paddles—just right for beginners.
- Midweight (8–9 oz): A mix of control and power, ideal for intermediates.
- Heavyweight (9+ oz): Power-packed but harder to handle.
Did You Know? About 70% of pickleball players prefer midweight paddles because they balance control and power.
Beginner vs. Advanced Paddle Considerations
Not sure if you need a beginner or advanced paddle? This quick guide highlights the key differences to help you choose the best fit for your game!
| Criteria | Beginners | Advanced Players |
| Weight | Light to mid-weight (7.3 – 8.0 oz) for easy handling and quicker reaction | Heavier (8.0+ oz) for more power, stability, and harder drives |
| Grip Size | Smaller (4.0 – 4.25″) for better control and wrist action | Larger (4.25 – 4.5″) for stability and added comfort on power shots |
| Paddle Material | Polymer core + fiberglass/composite face for control and forgiveness | Carbon fiber, Kevlar, or raw carbon for max spin, precision, and power |
| Sweet Spot | Larger sweet spot for forgiveness on mishits | Smaller sweet spot for pinpoint accuracy and advanced control |
| Core Thickness | Thicker core (16 mm) for better touch and control | Thinner core (13 – 14 mm) for quicker response and aggressive play |
| Spin & Power | Lower spin and power; focuses on shot placement and consistency | High spin capability with powerful drives and quick resets |
| Play Style Focus | Control-based play to build consistency and shot selection | Power + spin for aggressive rallies and fast-paced gameplay |
| Paddle Shape | Standard or widebody – more surface area, easier to learn | Elongated or hybrid shapes for reach, spin, and angles |
| Durability | Basic to moderate durability – great for casual and rec play | High-end durability for daily or competitive use |
| Price Range | Budget-friendly (typically under $100) | Premium range ($150+), investment-level paddles |
| Recommended For | New players, casual games, and learning fundamentals | Competitive players, tournament-level, and spin-heavy play |
Bonus Tips for Indoor Pickleball Beginners
Before I wrap up, let me drop a few bonus tips that helped me when I was getting started:
- Focus on Control, Not Power: It’s tempting to try and slam every ball, but pickleball is about finesse, especially indoors. Work on placing your shots and getting consistent hits before worrying about power.
- Try Before You Buy: If you can, borrow a paddle from a friend or join a local pickleball group where you can try different paddles. What feels great to one person might not work for you.
- Don’t Forget About Grip: If your paddle’s grip feels off, you can always add overgrip or change it. A well-fitted grip makes all the difference, especially during longer games.
- Join a Beginner’s Group: The best way to improve is to play with others who are learning. It’s fun, you’ll make friends, and you’ll pick up tips along the way.
Wrap-Up: Time to Get on the Court!
At the end of the day, the best paddle for you is the one that feels good in your hand and helps you enjoy the game. Don’t stress too much—just get out there and start playing! You’ll quickly find that having the right paddle makes a huge difference, but it’s the love of the game that will keep you coming back.
Have you tried any of these paddles? Got a favorite I didn’t mention? Let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear your thoughts and help you find your perfect paddle. Until then, see you on the court!
