Pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest growing sports in the world. It’s fun, accessible and doesn’t take long to learn. But if you’re new to the game, the paddle you choose will shape your entire experience. The right paddle can help you control the ball more easily, develop proper technique and avoid unnecessary fatigue. A paddle that’s too heavy, too powerful or not designed for beginners can make the sport feel harder than it really is.
To help you start strong, this guide brings together six of the best pickleball paddles for beginners, including three standout options from Olaben and three additional paddles widely recommended by the pickleball community. Each one offers a slightly different feel, so you can find the paddle that matches your style, goals and comfort level.
1. Olaben Pickleball Paddle
Olaben Pickleball Paddle is one of the most user friendly paddles for beginners. It’s easy to swing, light in the hand and stable on contact, making it ideal for learning basic techniques like dinks, volleys and controlled drives.
Key Features
- Lightweight design that helps reduce arm fatigue during longer play.
- A stable paddle face that gives you consistent bounce and reliable ball feedback.
- Premium Diamond Luxe aesthetics that make the paddle look as good as it feels.
- A beginner friendly sweet spot that forgives off center hits.
Why It’s Great for Beginners
Diamond Luxe helps take the intimidation out of starting a new sport. It gives you enough stability and control to build confidence right away, but it doesn’t overwhelm you with excess power. You can use it for drill sessions, casual games or long rallies without feeling like the paddle is working against you. For many new players, this becomes the paddle that carries them through their entire early learning phase.
2. Olaben Pro Series Pickleball Paddle 16mm
The Pro Series 16mm is a step up for beginners who already know they want to practice regularly or play with a bit more intention. The 16mm core gives the paddle a more controlled, softer feel, which is something most beginners appreciate as they learn how to place the ball more accurately.
Key Features
- A 16mm thick core that reduces vibration and improves stability.
- Pro Series construction that delivers a more professional playing experience.
- Smooth feedback on contact, especially helpful for soft game techniques.
- Strong durability that allows the paddle to grow with your skill level.
- Why It’s Great for Beginners
While it feels more advanced, it’s still very approachable for newcomers. The Pro Series 16mm makes it easier to learn how to control tempo and direction, and it supports a natural progression as you improve. New players who pick this paddle often stick with it for a long time before considering an upgrade.
3. Olaben Elite Series 16mm Pickleball Paddle
The Elite Series is the most premium beginner friendly paddle in the Olaben lineup. It’s built for players who want something stable and dependable right from day one. The paddle has a refined feel that you typically only find in intermediate-level equipment, making it perfect if you’re starting with high expectations.
Key Features
- High grade construction that enhances durability and responsiveness.
- A 16mm core that softens impact while giving you steady ball control.
- A polished Elite design that sits confidently in your hand.
- A shape and balance that work well for dinks, volleys, drops and controlled drives.
Why It’s Great for Beginners
The Elite Series gives you space to grow. You might start as a beginner, but you won’t quickly outgrow this paddle. It stays reliable as you move from basic shots to more strategic gameplay, making it a great long term companion.
4. JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Paddle
JOOLA is one of the most recognized names in modern pickleball, and the Essentials model is specifically built for beginners. It combines comfort, control and affordability in a way that makes the sport easier to learn.
Strengths
- Easy to maneuver, especially for players still learning hand positioning.
- Medium weight design that balances power and control.
- Durable construction that holds up well in frequent play.
- Trusted brand reputation that gives beginners peace of mind.
Best For
Players who want a reliable, balanced paddle that doesn’t require advanced technique and comes at a beginner friendly price point.
5. Onix Recruit 1.0 Pickleball Paddle
This is one of the most popular budget paddles for beginners. If you’re new to pickleball and just want to get a feel for the sport, the Onix Recruit 1.0 is a solid entry point.
Strengths
- Lightweight build that makes the paddle effortless to swing.
- A generous sweet spot that helps you hit the ball cleanly even with imperfect form.
- Simple, no frills design at a very approachable cost.
- A good choice for families, students or recreational groups.
Best For
Beginners who want to try pickleball without a big investment and appreciate a paddle that’s easy to handle from the start.
6. Gearbox CX11Q Control Pickleball Paddle
If you’re starting fresh but already know you want to commit to the sport long term, the Gearbox CX11Q Control is a worthy choice. It’s more advanced than typical beginner paddles, but many new players love its precise feel and long lasting construction.
Strengths
- Exceptional control that helps you understand ball placement early on.
- A strong, durable build that holds up over time.
- A smooth connection between hand, paddle and ball that accelerates skill development.
Best For
Beginners who want a paddle they can grow into, especially those who value control over raw power.
How to Choose a Beginner Pickleball Paddle
Choosing the right beginner paddle can feel overwhelming when you see the variety of shapes, materials and specifications available. To make the process easier, focus on the following practical considerations:
1. Paddle Weight
A lighter paddle is almost always the better choice for beginners. It gives you more control, keeps your swing smooth and helps prevent wrist and forearm fatigue. Most new players feel comfortable with a paddle in the lightweight to mid-weight range.
2. Core Thickness
Paddles with cores in the 13mm to 16mm range are ideal for beginners. A 16mm core provides more control and a softer, more stable feel on contact, making it easier to keep the ball in play as you learn. Thinner cores offer more power, but they require better technique.
3. Grip Comfort and Texture
A comfortable, non slip grip makes a significant difference. Beginners tend to adjust their grip frequently, so a cushioned handle that feels secure prevents slipping and improves shot accuracy. It also reduces strain during longer games.
4. Paddle Design and Play Style
Your natural style matters. If you prefer control, choose a paddle with a thicker core and a softer feel. If you lean toward power or faster play, a slightly thinner paddle can give you the momentum you want. There’s no wrong choice here, only what matches your pace and personality on the court.
Conclusion
If you're looking for pickleball paddles for beginners, forgiving and easy to learn with, the Olaben Diamond Luxe is the best place to start. It offers a friendly learning curve and enough stability to help you build confidence right away. If you already know you want to practice more seriously or play frequently, the Olaben Pro Series 16mm gives you the consistency and control needed to improve over time. And if you want a premium beginner paddle that will stay with you as you progress toward intermediate play, the Olaben Elite Series 16mm is a strong long term choice. Together, these three paddles give new players a clear path to start, grow and enjoy the sport comfortably.
