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Paddle, check.
Ball, check.
You’re ready to play some pickleball!
But wait… does it really matter what type of pickleball ball you play with?
Won’t any plastic ball with holes do? Can’t you just use the ones that came with your pickleball set?
Turns out the pickleball ball you use can make a big difference. Some are designed for indoors, others for outdoors.
Like pickleball paddles, there are cheap balls for practicing, and performance balls for serious play.
And, that's why we created this buying guide to cover the top pickleball balls for 2023. Here, we’ll show you the best buys for every occasion, and what to look for when buying pickleball balls.
Ready? Let's jump in!
Best Pickleball Balls For 2023
Search Amazon and you’ll find hundreds of options for pickleball balls. So, how do you choose?
Pickleball is played with a specific ball that is made of plastic and somewhere between 2.874 and 2.972 inches in diameter. They weigh between 0.780 and 0.935 ounces and can be any color – as long as it’s entirely that color.
But beyond that, different balls can play very differently on the court.
Let's go through some of the best options on the market, and why they might be the right ball for you.
Best Overall Outdoor Ball: Franklin X-40 Outdoor Pickleball
If you want to make sure you’re getting the best mix of value and performance, there’s no better option than the Franklin Sports X-40. This is the official ball of the US Open, and comes in several different colors. This can be purchased in packs of up to 100.
It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but just like with anything else, you get what you pay for. The X-40 will last longer than the average ball, all while giving you the truest bounce and spin.
Not only that, but Franklin Sports is one of the most trusted brands in the world when it comes to sports gear. You can rely on their production process, materials, and customer service to provide you with the best experience possible.
Price Point: $$
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 40
- Weight: 0.92 ounces
- Diameter: 2.91 inches
- Color options: Ember, Lava, Optic Yellow, Pink
- Molding: One-piece, rotationally molded
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Several color options
- Trusted brand
- USAPA Approved
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive
Best Overall Outdoor Ball - Runner-Up: TOP Outdoor Pickleball
The “TOP” outdoor pickleball ironically comes in second on our list, though that isn’t anything to sneeze at. While this ball doesn’t have quite the same level of durability that the Franklin provides, the reliability of performance is exquisite. This pickleball ball can easily slide in any outdoor condition with ease and consistency.
Even better, it comes in at a slightly lower price point meaning it's perfect for training tools or clubs that want to limit startup costs.
This is PickleballCentral’s house brand. So you have the entire support system of a top marketplace behind your purchase and can be sure that you’re receiving a quality product.
Price Point: $
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 40
- Weight: 0.881 ounces
- Diameter: 2.94 inches
- Color options: Yellow, Orange, Neon Green
- Molding: One-piece, rotationally molded
Pros:
- Reliable performance
- Several color options
- Inexpensive
- USAPA Approved
Cons:
- Slightly less durable
Best All-Weather Outdoor Ball: ONIX Pure 2 Outdoor Pickleballs
Some savvy pickleball players may wonder why the ONIX Pure 2 didn’t end up in our top two. That’s because it has its own distinction on our list as the best all-weather option.
They cost a little bit more, but have a few key distinctions that make them perfect for outdoor court play. If it’s slightly windy, a little damp, or any other combination of poor weather conditions, this ball is going to provide you with the most consistent play possible.
That’s because of its smaller holes and heavier weight, it performs best in windy conditions.
It’s important to note that because of these changes, the Pure 2 isn’t approved for official tournament purposes. If you need an option that is approved, the same company provides the ONIX Fuse G2 Outdoor Pickleballs, which are among the most durable options on the market and a great pickleball ball in a variety of situations.
Price Point: $$
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 40
- Weight: 0.928 ounces
- Diameter: 2.9 inches
- Color options: Yellow
- Molding: Two-piece, seamed
Pros:
- Reliable performance
- Perfect for windy conditions
Cons:
- Slightly less durable
- Not USAPA Approved
Best Overall Indoor Ball: Jugs Indoor Pickleballs
This is the best-selling indoor ball for a variety of reasons. But most importantly the performance is perfect for newcomers that want pure fun, instead of technical precision.
You can use these best pickleball balls on a variety of surfaces. Their slightly larger holes combined with low weight will provide consistent bounce and speed, allowing for longer rallies.
Just like the previous listing, these balls aren’t approved for tournament use at the moment. So, if that’s something you are expecting to host in the future, it might not be the right one for you.
But the average user will find these to be a perfect solution for indoor play, and even some advanced players prefer to use them!
Price Point: $
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 26
- Weight: 0.81 ounces
- Diameter: 2.875 inches
- Color options: Green, White
- Molding: Two-piece, seamed
Pros:
- Strong performance
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Not USAPA Approved
- Only two color options
Best Overall Indoor Ball - Runner Up: ONIX Fuse Indoor Pickleball
ONIX is back with its Fuse Indoor edition, which provides a tournament-sanctioned option for the highest level of play.
These come with the same injection molding production process that makes them extremely durable. They can actually feel similar in performance to the outdoor pickleball ball version that they also offer, allowing a seamless transition for players moving outside.
If you’re serious about taking your game to the next level and want to get used to tournament-style bounce and speed, these are a great option to use indoors.
They do come at a bit of a higher price point though, which makes them drop slightly lower than the Jugs in overall value.
Price Point: $$
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 26
- Weight: 0.924 ounces
- Diameter: 2.9 inches
- Color options: Orange, Yellow
- Molding: One-piece construction, injection molded
Pros:
- Exceptional performance
- High durability
- USAPA Approved
Cons:
- Only two color options
Best Ball for Beginners #1: Penn 40 Outdoor Pickleball
If you know anything about racquet sports, you know that Penn is a name you can trust. The provider of the best-selling tennis ball in America, the company also has one of the most reliable pickleball balls that you can find.
A lot of players start out just looking to have fun but quickly decide that they need to upgrade to a tournament-grade ball if they want to get serious. By starting out with the Penn 40, you don’t have to compromise either way.
This ball is a bit more forgiving than some of its competitors but is still USAPA-approved. So you won’t have to upgrade for a while (if ever!)
Unfortunately, it comes in only one color–standard yellow–which could throw off some players that want a different experience. For the beginner though, there’s not much you can complain about.
Price Point: $$
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 40
- Weight: 0.924 ounces
- Diameter: 2.904 inches
- Color options: Yellow
- Molding: One-piece construction, injection molded
Pros:
- Forgiving performance
- High durability
- USAPA Approved
Cons:
- Only one-color option
- Can be too slow for advanced players
Best Ball for Beginners #2: Franklin X-26 Indoor
For many of the same reasons that the X-40 is our best overall outdoor ball, the X-26 can be seen as the best option for beginner indoor players. This is one of the best, most consistent products on the market. It comes in a variety of colors, and can be used on all kinds of indoor surfaces.
They’re relatively forgiving, tournament-approved, and won’t ever really need to be updated unless a player wants something specific.
There’s a reason why Franklin is one of the most trusted brands in the sport and appears multiple times on this list.
Price Point: $$
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 26
- Weight: 0.917 ounces
- Diameter: 2.91 inches
- Color options: Blue, Lime Green, Yellow, Orange
- Molding: Two-piece, seamed
Pros:
- Reliable performance
- Trusted brand
- USAPA Approved
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point
Best Ball for Intermediate Players #1: Selkirk SLK Competition Ball
If you’re looking for something that is a little more geared toward the advanced player, Selkirk’s line of competition-focused balls is the way to go. The unique hole pattern gives these best pickleball balls an exceptional performance (not unlike the X-40) and can help take your game to the next level.
Their advanced durability allows them to be used consistently without fear of warping or cracking, and they perform well even in poor conditions. If you’re looking for an upgrade, the SLK Competition might just be the answer.
Price Point: $$
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 40
- Weight: 0.910 ounces
- Diameter: 2.85 inches
- Color options: Lime
- Molding: Two-piece, seamed
Pros:
- Exceptional performance
- Extremely durable
- USAPA Approved
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point
Best Ball for Intermediate Players #2: Penn 26 Indoor Ball
If you’re a serious player striking a red pickleball inside, it’s probably a Penn. The reliable manufacturer is back with an excellent indoor option that offers outstanding performance on hardwood surfaces.
The seamless molding process means it gives consistent bounce. So, this tournament-approved ball is a perfect choice for a player that wants to upgrade and take their game to a higher level.
Price Point: $$
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 26
- Weight: 0.917 ounces
- Diameter: 2.904 inches
- Color options: Hot Lava
- Molding: One-piece, seamless
Pros:
- Exceptional performance
- Extremely durable
- USAPA Approved
Cons:
- Only one color option
Best Ball for Serious Play: Dura Fast 40
So, you’ve taken your game to the next level. Maybe you’re preparing for a tournament. Or you’re a club ready to put on an event, and need the best equipment for your players.
In that case, the Dura Fast 40 is the only option. The official ball of the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) is easily the best option in this category.
A patented hole design gives it perfect flight even in windy conditions. It’s a one-piece seamless ball, and it’s extremely fast, leading to the most competitive matches possible.
Price Point: $$$
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 40
- Weight: 0.92 ounces
- Diameter: 2.937 inches
- Color options: Yellow, Orange, Neon
- Molding: One-piece, seamless
Pros:
- Top of the line performance
- Extremely durable
- Seamless construction
- USAPA Approved
Cons:
- Higher price point
Budget Pick: Tourna Strike Outdoor Pickleballs
If you’re looking for an option on a budget, the Tourna Strike balls are a great option. You can get a 12-pack for less than half the price of the Dura Fast, for instance. And they’re still sanctioned for tournament play and provide a solid experience.
These may not be quite as durable as some of their more expensive counterparts. But if you’re looking for an entry point to the game of pickleball, you could certainly do worse.
Price Point: $
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 40
- Weight: 0.864 ounces
- Diameter: 2.91 inches
- Color options: Optic Yellow
- Molding: Two-piece, seamed
Pros:
- Low price point
- USAPA Approved
Cons:
- Lower durability
- One color option
- Can have inconsistent performance
Best Balls to Buy in Bulk: Gamma Sports Photon Indoor Pickleballs
If you need a high number of best pickleball balls, it’s probably because you’re either a club, class, or are looking to fill a training machine for your own practice. In any of these situations, you don’t want to have to “warm up” or “condition” every single one.
Some other options suggest pressing the ball several times in your hands to make it ready for play. But the Gamma Photon is already primed in the box.
They’re not the most exceptional ball on the market. But they do provide a good solution for players that want to pour a box into a pickleball machine and get on the court right away.
Price Point: $$
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 26
- Weight: 0.85 ounces
- Diameter: 2.9 inches
- Color options: Hi-Vis Optic Green
- Molding: Two-piece, seamed
Pros:
- No “conditioning” required
- Adequate performance
- USAPA Approved
Cons:
- Lower durability
- One color option
Best Ball for Noise Reduction: GAMMA Foam Quiet Balls
Want to practice your dinks in a spare room or work your favorite drills in a shared space? Gamma’s Foam Quiet Ball is the sound of silence.
While PickleballCentral claims that it can be used for casual games, it’s not a great option if you’re playing outside. This is because the solid construction of the ball is more susceptible to even the slightest weather conditions.
This ball is made for training. It’s slightly smaller but still reacts reasonably well for most shots and is extremely light for the traveling player.
The fact that they’re also relatively cheap can make them a great gift item or stocking stuffer as well!
Price Point: $
Specifications:
- Number of holes: 0
- Weight: 0.71 ounces
- Diameter: 2.8 inches
- Color options: Yellow
- Molding: Foam
Pros:
- Extremely quiet
- Lightweight
- Great for indoor court play
Cons:
- Does not play well in weather
- Not made for competition
How to Choose the Best Balls for Pickleball
Now that we’ve gone through the best pickleball balls on the market, it still might not be apparent which one is right for you.
Let’s look at a few helpful tips on how to choose the best pickleball balls:
- Durability: One of the biggest factors to consider when purchasing pickleballs is how durable they are. You’ll want a ball that can withstand a lot of wear and tear, especially if it's for outdoor use.
- Texture: You might not know it, but the texture of the ball also matters. Some balls have a smooth surface while others have a rougher texture, which makes them harder to control.
- Material: The material the ball is made of is also important. Balls that are made of harder plastic will last longer but can be more difficult to hit. Balls made of softer plastic are easier to hit but may not last as long.
- Color: You’ll want to choose a ball that is the right color for your needs. Some best pickleball balls are available in multiple colors, while others are only available in one. Remember this isn't just about style but also high visibility based on where you'll be using it.
- Noise: Finally, another consideration is noise. Some balls make more noise than others when they hit the ground or other objects. This can be an important factor depending on what kind of environment you're playing or practicing in.
- Meets USAPA Specifications: If you want to be using a tournament-ready ball, you’ll have to make sure it meets all USAPA Specifications. Luckily, they offer a handy search engine where you can look up all of the approved balls.
Does weight matter?
For pickleball, the weight of the ball can make a big difference, even if it's off by just a fraction of a gram. When the ball is too light, it can be difficult to keep it in play and generate any power. When it's too heavy, you'll find that your swing becomes much more labored and you're less likely to make contact with the ball.
In general, heavier pickleball is going to be better for outdoor play. This is because the wind can easily blow a lighter ball off course. If you're playing indoors, however, weight may not be as big of a factor.
Does the number of holes matter?
The number of holes can have a huge effect on the flight of a ball, so make sure you're playing with something that meets regulations. Indoor balls generally have 26 holes, while outdoor balls usually have 40.
This can vary slightly but those are the minimum and maximum that are allowed for a regulation pickleball.
Paddle tennis balls vs pickleball balls
Despite the fact that they both use similar instruments, paddle tennis (or padel) and pickleball are completely different games. The former uses a ball that is much closer to a normal tennis ball and not made of the same plastic that is used in pickleball.
The two aren’t interchangeable; in fact, you wouldn’t get very far trying to play pickleball with a paddle tennis ball!
Wiffle Balls vs Pickleball Balls
Now, here’s where things get a little harder. Wiffle balls are made of the same plastic and also feature holes, making them look very similar to pickleball balls. But they’re not the same!
Each side of a wiffle ball usually has eight longer holes that help a pitcher add spin, while pickleballs feature between 26-40 round holes.
They might look the same but they would be a poor stand in for a true pickleball.
Indoor vs Outdoor balls
So what are the big differences between indoor and outdoor balls, anyway? There are several key ways in which the two diverge, including number of holes, speed, resistance to weather, and noise.
Though there are some outliers, it generally breaks down like this:
Looking for indoor or outdoor pickleball courts near you? Checkout our pickleheads court finder and find the perfect courts to test your pickleball balls outdoor or indoor on:
FAQs
Bottom Line
You wouldn’t want to play golf with something from the local mini-putt, and you don’t want to play pickleball with just any old plastic ball. Follow the suggestions above to find the perfect ball for your situation and get out on the courts!
