Best carbon fiber pickleball paddles in 2025 - top 5 compared

Buy if:

• You want a paddle that does it all:

  the DBD Control scores 9/10 and above on all the top attributes (power, control, spin, and forgiveness).

• You don't want to spend over $200:

  this is a mid-range carbon fiber paddle ($180) that's built like a $250 paddle.

• You want a plush feel:

  the DBD has a noticeably plush feel for a thermoformed carbon paddle, making it more user-friendly than many stiff paddles.

Pass if:

• You're a beginner:

  if you're just starting out, consider the non-thermoformed Vatic Pro PRISM Flash (even softer than the DBD).

• You want maximum reach:

  the DBD has a hybrid shape, so try the Paddletek Bantam TKO-C or Engage Pursuit Pro1 6.0 for an elongated paddle with great reach.

• You struggle with control:

  the DBD hits hard with lots of pop, so check out the PIKKL Hurricane Pro for the best forgiveness and touch.

Buy if:

• You want the best budget carbon paddle:

  unlike most cheap carbon paddles, this one is made from premium raw Toray T700 carbon fiber.

• You prefer control paddles:

  the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash offers decent power and plenty of spin, but it's noticeably soft and it excels on touch shots.

• You prioritize durability:

  the raw carbon fiber surface holds up well under extended play, making it a good "daily driver" paddle.

Pass if:

• Your style of play is aggressive:

  this paddle won't hit hard enough for you, so try the Paddletek Bantam TKO-C for more power.

• You get into lots of hands battles:

  the PRISM Flash is head heavy and can play a bit slow at the kitchen, so check out the Six Zero DBD instead.

• You're an advanced player:

  this is great for beginners and intermediates, but advanced players might prefer the Engage Pursuit Pro1 6.0.

Buy if:

• You're a banger:

  power players will love the raw power this paddle generates—it's incredible on drives and overhead putaways.

• You play with tons of spin:

  you can rip the highest levels of spin with this premium raw carbon fiber face.

• You want accuracy too:

  unlike many elongated power paddles, the TKO-C is non-thermoformed and has a softer feel to help with control and forgiveness.

Pass if:

• You want a pure control paddle:

  try the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash or PIKKL Hurricane Pro instead if you value your touch game over power.

• You want a cheaper alternative with power:

  if you don't need the most powerful carbon paddle, the Six Zero DBD has plenty of power at around $70 cheaper.

• You want the best advanced all-court paddle:

  if you're an advanced player who wants the best balance of control and power, try the Engage Pursuit Pro1 6.0.

Buy if:

• Control is your priority:

  the PIKKL Hurricane Pro scores full marks on control like the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash.

• You want more spin and forgiveness:

  the boost in spin and forgiveness sets this apart from the PRISM Flash.

• You want a fast paddle:

  it's a fast paddle too, with a low 108 swing weight (16 mm model) that makes it quick in hand battles.

Pass if:

• You don't want a standard-shaped paddle:

  the Hurricane Pro is the only paddle on this list with a standard square shape (16 x 8"), so it has the least reach (though it has a surprisingly long 5.5" handle).

• You want lots of power:

  the Paddletek Bantam TKO-C is the most powerful carbon paddle, while the Six Zero DBD and Engage also have more power than the PIKKL.

• You're an advanced player:

  this suits intermediates and some beginners, so try the Engage Pursuit Pro1 6.0 Elongated for a top all-court advanced paddle.

Buy if:

• You're an advanced player:

  this is the best advanced paddle in 2025 because high-level players will be able to unlock its unique abilities.

• You want a true all-court paddle:

  this is designed to switch between raw power and soft control depending on how you swing.

• You struggle with pickleball elbow:

  the Pursuit Pro1 is great for tennis elbow thanks to Engage's vibration dampening tech.

Pass if:

• You're on a budget:

  the PIKKL Hurricane Pro is a great alternative because it also has high-level spin but costs $100 less.

• You're a newer player:

  beginners and new intermediates will have an easier time with the PIKKL or the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash.

• You're a rising intermediate:

  the Six Zero DBD will probably suit you better.