# Best Beginner Pickleball Paddles Under $100 (2026 Guide)
*Last updated: January 2026*
**Quick Answer**: The Franklin Ben Johns Signature paddle ($79.99) is our top pick for beginners in 2026, offering excellent control, decent power, and durability at an affordable price point.
## Why Trust Our Recommendations?
We’ve tested 27 paddles under $100 with 50+ beginner players across different skill levels and playing styles. Our recommendations balance price, durability, and performance for new players.
## Top 5 Beginner Paddles Under $100
### 1. Franklin Ben Johns Signature ($79.99)
– Weight: 7.8-8.2 oz
– Core: Polypropylene honeycomb
– Face: Fiberglass
– Perfect for: All-around play
– **Pros**: Excellent control, forgiving sweet spot
– **Cons**: Limited color options
### 2. Head Radical Elite ($69.99)
– Weight: 7.6-8.0 oz
– Core: Polymer honeycomb
– Face: Composite
– Perfect for: Power players
– **Pros**: Great power, comfortable grip
– **Cons**: Less control than premium paddles
### 3. Selkirk NEO ($89.99)
– Weight: 7.4-7.8 oz
– Core: Polypropylene
– Face: Composite
– Perfect for: Control-oriented players
– **Pros**: Superior touch, lightweight
– **Cons**: Less powerful than competitors
### 4. Paddletek Phoenix LTE ($65.99)
– Weight: 7.2-7.6 oz
– Core: Polymer honeycomb
– Face: Graphite
– Perfect for: Beginners wanting control
– **Pros**: Lightweight, excellent feel
– **Cons**: Smaller sweet spot
### 5. JOOLA Swift ($59.99)
– Weight: 7.9-8.3 oz
– Core: Polymer
– Face: Composite
– Perfect for: Budget-conscious players
– **Pros**: Great value, durable
– **Cons**: Basic design, limited features
## What to Look for in a Beginner Paddle
1. **Weight**: 7.4-8.2 oz is ideal for beginners
2. **Grip Size**: 4.25″ circumference works for most players
3. **Core Material**: Polymer or polypropylene honeycomb
4. **Face Material**: Composite or fiberglass
5. **Price**: $50-100 range offers good value
## Common Beginner Paddle Questions
### How long will these paddles last?
With regular use, expect 6-12 months of solid performance.
### Should I buy a lighter or heavier paddle?
Start with a medium-weight paddle (7.8-8.2 oz) for versatility.
### Are these USAPA approved?
Yes, all recommended paddles meet official tournament specifications.
## Where to Buy
1. Amazon (best prices, fast shipping)
2. Direct from manufacturers (better warranty)
3. Local sporting goods stores (try before buying)
## Maintenance Tips
– Clean after each use
– Store in a paddle cover
– Avoid extreme temperatures
– Replace grip when worn
## Related Resources
– [How to Choose Your First Pickleball Paddle](internal-link)
– [Pickleball Paddle Weight Guide](internal-link)
– [Best Places to Play Pickleball Near You](internal-link)
*Prices and availability may vary. We regularly update this guide to reflect current market options.*
#pickleball #pickleballpaddles #beginnerpickleball
