Top Best Quiet Pickleball Paddles
Table of Contents
Introduction
Now it is the time to hunt for silent pickleball, huh!? Pickleball is an incredibly fun sport, but it can oftentimes be equally as loud. This can be frustrating for neighborhoods who have noise restrictions. To combat this, the pickleball community as created “green zone approved” paddles that are much quieter than the average paddle. In this article, we are covering the Best Quiet Pickleball Paddles.
As I’m sure you’ve noticed, loud pickleball paddles create a snapping sound when contacting the ball that can create noise disturbance to those around the courts when you play.
To combat this, Directors at the Sun City Grand developed a sound test to determine whether a pickleball paddle sits within an acceptable noise band. These are called green zone paddles. For now, we review the best pickleball paddle on the market in 2023.
Silent paddles all share one thing: their core. In this review, I will show why not only the quietest but also the most comforting games you’ll ever play, are the core of the five choices that absorb noise and shock. Silent paddles are the choice for the sensitive joints player also, and I’m going to explain why!
I have many various lists for you to look at if you want to look at another paddle – surf our website and check out our paddle Ultimate Guide for even more paddle information.
But go no further than this page for some of the greatest silent paddles out there. Let’s start!
Best Quiet Pickleball Paddles
- Bantam Ex-L Pickleball Paddle
- Selkirk AMPED S2 X5 Fiber Flex Pickleball Paddle
- Encore Composite Pickleball Paddle
- Titan Pro Black Diamond Series Pickleball Paddle
- Onix Evoke Graphite XL Paddle
- Selkirk Omni X5 FiberFlex Pickleball Paddle
- Engage Elite Pro Pickleball Paddle
- Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Pickleball Paddle
- Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddle
1. Bantam Ex-L Pickleball Paddle
This Paddletek Pickleball Paddle is a famous paddle that provides a good blend of power and control due to its medium weight. It contains a long-lasting polymer core that absorbs vibration and plays silently for individuals who live in noise-sensitive areas.
A velvet texture on the face gives spin to the ball, and the handle is covered in a highly comfortable Gamma Ultra Cushion Contour grip.
Key Features:
- Weight Average: 8.2 ounces
- Weight Range: 7.7 – 8.4 ounces
- Grip Circumference: 4 1/4″ (Medium)
- Grip Tack: medium
- Grip Style: cushion, perforated
- Grip Length: 5 1/8″
- Paddle Length:15 5/8″
- Paddle Width: 7 7/8″
- Paddle Face: Vinyl graphic
- Core Material: Polymer honeycomb
- Edge Guard: 1/8″ overlapping paddle face
Editor’s Note: I believe this paddle can be used almost anywhere on the court. The dink game was no trouble, and the serves were fantastic. I was also able to play a fantastic finesse game with the matte coated face. The power from the head in kill shots is when the EX-L truly shines.
Pro Endorsement: Kyle Yates
2. Selkirk AMPED S2 X5 FiberFlex Pickleball Paddle
If you are wandering that which Selkirk Pickleball Paddle is Right for Me? then I’ll say the second paddle on my list of quiet pickleball paddles the Selkirk AMPED S2 X5 Pickleball Paddle is right for you.
The AMPED S2 X5 FiberFlex Paddle offers the largest surface area. Players will love the versatility provided by the broad face, as well as the large sweet spot. Because of the innovative FiberFlex face and graphic application method, balls will react off the face with exceptional precision, giving you more time to put shots where you want them. The X5 core improves uniformity throughout the face and creates a softer sound.
This Paddle weighs 8.4 oz on average to deliver increased force in your hits. To accommodate the larger face, the handle is somewhat shorter than the rest of the AMPED series.
With its FiberFlex Fiberglass face and patent-pending thicker X5 polypropylene core, the Amped series is pioneering a totally new technology in the Pickleball market. The new thicker paddle core gives unrivalled power and control, as well as several other performance advantages!
Key Features:
- Weight Range: 7.3-7.8 oz. (Light Weight)
- Weight Range: 7.9-8.4 oz. (Standard Weight)
- Grip Circumference: 4″ (Thin Grip) 4 1/4″ (Medium) Actual grip sizes may vary up to 1/8″.
- Grip Style: Perforated cushion
- Grip Manufacturer: Selkirk
- Handle Length: 5 1/4″
- Paddle Length: 15 3/4″
- Paddle Width: 8″
- Face: FiberFlex (fiberglass)
- Core material: X5 Polymer honeycomb (9/16″ thick)
- Edge Guard: Low-profile vinyl edge trim
Editor’s Note: The sweet spot on this paddle feels about average in size to me, but the shots you can get from it are very fantastic. Using this thicker X5 core feels extremely different from using a harder, thinner paddle like the Onix Z5, but both have excellent kill potential.
Pro Endorsement: Hunter Johnson
3. Encore Composite Pickleball Paddle
The Encore Composite Pickleball Paddle is ranked third my our list. If you’re searching for a quiet pickleball paddle that works well around the net and in the kitchen, this is the paddle for you. Read more about the best pickleball paddles for pro players.
The Encore paddle is a silent paddle with a polymer core that won’t bother your neighbors. It may, however, irritate your opponents.
It has a superb ControlPro polymer technology core that allows for a greater sweet spot. It directs your shots into the sweet spot target, giving them additional spin and bounce. While it dilutes the opposition’s spin, it gives players an advantage in every encounter.
Encore has included this beautiful FiberTek Skin technology into the paddle for exceptional bounces while avoiding dead areas. The FiberTek skin on this paddle expands the sweet spot for more precise shots. As a result, it provides comprehensive professional experience.
Furthermore, it is USAPA certified, which assures quality, performance, and suitability for the competition.
Key Features:
- Size: 16 x 8 inches
- Weight: 7.9 – 8.3 oz.
- Color: Blue, Green, Purple, White, & Red
- Handle Length: 4 3/8 inches
- Handle Circumference: 4 ¼ inches
- Thin: 4 1/8 inches
- Core: ControlPro polymer core
Editor’s Note: This paddle is fantastic. I have a lot of strength in my game, and it simply helps me with paddle and elegance, plus I love the bling. The skin is quite gritty, so I can come up extremely beautifully and produce a lot of topspin, causing the ball to fall down really quickly.
Pros Endorsement: Phil Bagley, Marcin Rozpedski
4. Titan Pro Black Diamond Series Pickleball Paddle
The Titan Pro Black Diamond Series Pickleball Paddle is the next on my list of silent pickleball paddles. This paddle offers a superb balance of performance and silent play thanks to its sound-absorbing substance.
This Pickleball Paddle intends to revolutionize the paddle market. It is unlike any other paddle on the market, but it is also the first paddle to combine woven carbon fibers into the paddle face (you can see the fibers).
The carbon fibre hairs shred and grasp the ball as the paddle ages, providing even more spin and dwell on the paddle, the ideal combo for ultimate control of your strokes. It’s the best in terms of woven carbon fibre quality, metallic graphic design, craftsmanship, and performance attributes.
Through energy dispersion throughout every fibre of the paddle, PROLITE’s proprietary woven carbon fibre and vibration dampening technology helps reduce chronic tennis elbow and wrist pain.
Key Features:
- Core: Top Grade Polymer Honeycomb
- Facing: USA Made Braided Woven Carbon Fiber
- Length: 15 1/2″
- Width: 7 13/16″
- Weight: 7.6-8.0 oz.
- Grip: PROLITE Phantom Ultra Grip
- Grip Circumference: 4 1/4″ Length: 5″
Editors’ Note: I can slow the ball down so easy with this paddle simply by getting my paddle on it, maybe better than any other paddle I’ve played with, but I also get that lovely sweet spot with a lot of force.
Pro Endorsement: Brian Ashworth
5. Onix Evoke Graphite XL Paddle
The Onix Graphite Evoke XL is well-known for its excellent net contact and control. The Evoke XL’s overall shape contributes to the paddle’s huge sweet spot.
The graphite face contributes to the paddle’s remarkable touch and control at the net. The polypropylene core not only gives the paddle a terrific feel, but it also offers general balance for pop at the baseline. The Onix Evoke Paddle is an excellent noise-controlling paddle.
The paddle’s lightweight form makes it incredibly easy to swing and is ideal for novice and intermediate players. The Evoke XL is ideal for those that want constant touch.
Key Features:
- Paddle Weight: 6.9 – 7.2 oz
- Paddle Face Material: Graphite
- Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene
- Paddle Shape: Wide Body
- Paddle Length: 15 3/8″
- Paddle Width: 7 5/8″
- Grip Size: Thick – 4 1/2″
- Handle Length: Standard – 5 1/4″
- Offers Great Touch at the Net and Pop from Baseline
Editor’s Note: This paddle is quite light and performs well, especially for people who swing with vigor. The paddle just doesn’t have any spring to it.
Pro Endorsement: Roman Kravchuk
6. Selkirk Omni X5 FiberFlex Pickleball Paddle
The AMPED Omni X5 FiberFlex Pickleball Paddle has the most recent pickleball technology in an extended design, making it a control player’s ideal paddle. The paddle has Selkirk’s unique thicker X5 polymer core, which increases power and control while decreasing vibration and noise.
The X5 core increases cushion, allowing the ball to stay on the face for longer, allowing you to move the ball more. It also has a newly developed FiberFlex fiberglass face.
The Omni has a short handle that works nicely with a ping pong grip for added stability. Despite having a narrower face than other AMPED paddles, the Omni boasts a big, forgiving sweet spot.
Finally, the Omni X5 comes with the Selkirk FiberFlex paddle face. On the court, it has the same amazing paddle ‘pop,’ control, and touch as the S2 X5.
Key Features:
- Approximate Weight (Lightweight): 7.2-7.6 oz – Light (0.2 oz lighter with thin grip)
- Approximate Weight (Midweight) 7.7-8.3 oz – Medium (0.2 oz lighter with thin grip)
- Paddle Length: 16.25″
- Paddle Width: 7.25″ – Skinny
- Paddle Face FiberFlex Fiberglass
- Grip Circumference (Thin)
- 4″ – Thin
- Grip Length 4.25″ – Short
- Grip Style: Perforated cushion or thin
Editor’s Note: I interviewed a player for his thoughts on this paddle, and here are his words: “I’m a 3.5 player aiming to improve my control and spin, and this paddle has an excellent balance of both. My power shot control has increased, and my dinking game has really improved. Definitely suggest if you’re a 2.0-3.0 player looking to improve your game.”
Pro Endorsement: Matthew Mead
7. Engage Elite Pro Pickleball Paddle
Engage has created a ‘Signature Series’ Elite Pro paddle that is meant to be exceptionally silent without sacrificing mobility or power. Read more about the best pickleball paddles under $100
This Pickleball paddle includes a ControlPro polymer core with innovative vibration-control technology. When the paddle strikes a ball, vibrations go up to your hand, wrist, and elbow, producing discomfort.
This product’s liquid graphite is Engage’s first chemically bonded skin. It provides a solid hold on the ball, allowing you to make a variety of smashes without losing direction.
The paddle features a large striking surface area, giving you enough of room to reach for and smash the ball with precision. The precision of these blows, along with the large surface area, will make you a more dangerous opponent.
Engage Elite is an outstanding paddle that provides its customers with several benefits due to its creative design and great quality.
Key Features:
- Approximate Weight (Standard): 7.8-8.3 oz – Medium
- Approximate Weight (Lite): 7.5-7.8 oz – Medium
- Paddle Length: 16″
- Paddle Width: 8″ – Medium
- Paddle Face: Fiberglass
- Paddle Core Polymer Honeycomb
- Grip Circumference: 4.25″ – Medium
- Grip Length 5″ – Standard
- Grip Style: Perforated Cushion
- Edge Guard ¼” overlap edge guard
Editor’s Note:
Pro Endorsement: Steve Kennedy
8. Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Pickleball Paddle
The Tempest Wave Pro is an excellent paddle if you want to master the long game while still being able to expose some trick shots when necessary.
This paddle provides unrivaled accuracy, power, and forgiveness, allowing you to achieve peak performance. Smart Response Technology and a huge, constant sweet spot give delicacy to every shot, while the balanced weight boosts speed and agility for even more fun.
The paddle also features a universally pleasant grip, which is cushioned and ribbed for comfort and convenience, as well as stitched for maximum durability. There’s an added plus in that you may acquire this paddle with a thick or thin grip.
With its velvet-textured poly surface for excellent control and spin, the Tempest Wave Pro is a particularly ideal paddle for more sensitive folks or persons playing doubles since it gives you optimum control during softer play games when the form is treasured more than force.
Key Features:
- Weight Average: 7.6 ounces
- Weight Range: 7.2-7.8 ounces
- Grip Circumference: 4 1/8″ (Small)
- Grip Circumference: 4 3/8″ (Large) Actual grip sizes may vary up to 1/8″.
- Grip Style: Thin or cushion
- Grip Length: 5 1/4”
- Paddle Length: 15 7/8”
- Paddle Width: 8”
- Paddle Face: Graphite
- Core Material: Polymer Honeycomb
- Edge Guard: 1/8” overlapping paddle face
Editor’s Note: I believe its core feels extremely wonderful throughout all of the different shots, and the blend of power and control is actually pretty amazing. Paddletek clearly put a lot of effort into the performance and playability of this paddle.
Pro Endorsement: Anna Leigh
9. Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddle
There are certain paddles that are well-known in the pickleball community, but others that appear to be legendary. One of those renowned paddles is the Onix Z5 Graphite pickleball paddle.
So, what exactly is the Onix Z5 Graphite? The Z5 is a wide body, nomex honeycomb paddle with a graphite face. I’ll explain what it all means.
The “widebody” aspect of the paddle is vital, and it is for this reason that most people recommend this paddle for beginners. Assuming that both dimensions are proportional, the greater the sweet spot, the broader and taller the paddle. The greater the sweet area, the more forgiving the paddle.
The Nomex core is simply a cardboard-like substance that has been soaked in resin, and it is utilized to smash the ball like never before in pickleball. Nomex honeycomb cores provide a lot of power. This is abundant in the Onix Z5 Graphite. Because of the huge sweet spot, you may strike the ball with force and confidence, which is a deadly combination.
Key Features:
- Weight: 7.5 – 8.2 oz
- Face Material: Graphite
- Core: Nomex
- Shape: Wide Body
- Length: 15 1/2″
- Width: 8 3/10″
- Grip Size: 4 1/4″
- Handle Length: 5″
Editor’s Note: I think this is a terrific paddle, but only for specific players that have the arm strength and power play style to utilize it to its best potential.
Pro Endorsement: Juan Arraya
In quite a pickleball paddles, the two paddles mentioned below are the champion and runner up, respectively. We have also added a short review of these paddles for your ease.
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NewFit Blur Pickleball Paddle
In terms of superb silent paddles, the NewFit Blur Pickleball Paddles hold the top rank. A responsive graphite substance is used to make these paddles.
Power strokes are especially fantastic with graphite paddles, but because of the shock-absorbent core, striking hard doesn’t always imply striking loudly!
The Surface Area
These paddles are 15 12 inches long by 7 34 inches broad, which is the standard size for USAPA-approved wide paddles.
They’re tiny enough to navigate effortlessly while yet delivering a large sweet zone on the face, thanks to these dimensions.
Because of the wide sweet spot, the impact is distributed more evenly, resulting in a quieter paddle.
The Weight
This paddle is a medium-weight paddle, weighing about 7.7-8.2 ounces.
This is the ideal weight range for a paddle since it is neither too light nor too hefty to be difficult to control. As a result, it provides the optimum blend of power and control.
Medium-weight paddles, like this one, are the quietest because they are strong enough to bear the force of each strike while not being too heavy to produce swing fatigue.
The Grip Size and Feel
In the pickleball community, the 5-inch length, and the 4-inch-circumference grip is generally conventional since they are the proportions that tend to be most comfortable for most individuals.
The specifically created padding that encases this grip is what makes it distinctive since it reduces overall vibration and strain.
The material is spiralized and molded for a comfortable fit.
The Core
These paddles contain polymer honeycomb cores, which are both silent and pleasant, as previously described.
Polymer core paddles are the best at spreading noise and vibration when compared to materials like aluminum, Nomex, and wood.
Conclusion of this paddle
This is due in part to the large-cell pattern found in honeycombed polymer cores. This paddle is for you, whether you simply prefer quieter paddles or require them due to joint conditions such as tennis elbow.
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Prince Response Pro Pickleball Paddle
Our second-place winner is the Prince Response Pro Pickleball Paddle, which has a textured, UV-coated fiberglass face that not only aids with spin technique but also protects the paddle from sun damage.
That’s correct! Because it has a protective layer, similar to sunscreen, this paddle can survive the natural damage done by damaging UV rays.
When not in use, we still recommend keeping it in a case or the shade, but because of the built-in protection, you can be confident that this paddle will last even longer.
The Surface Area
This high-quality paddle is a standard broad paddle, measuring 15 3/4 inches by 8 1/4 inches.
The form of this one, however, differs from most other wide paddles in that the sides are rounded. This design allows the sweet spot to be much larger and the impact to be dispersed much further.
As a result, you may consider this broad paddle to be a cut above the rest!
The Weight
The Prince Response Pro Pickleball Paddle comes in two different weights: light (7.1-7.6 ounces) and standard (7.1-7.6 ounces) (7.7-8.1 ounces).
The former is considered to be on the lighter end of the medium weight spectrum, while the latter is considered to be on the heavier end of the same weight group.
It is up to you to choose which is best for your specific needs, but heavier paddles give more power while lighter paddles give the player more control.
The Grip Size and Feel
There are also two grip circumference options: 4 14 inches or 4 38 inches.
The former is the most common size in pickleball, but if you have larger hands, you might want to try the latter. The length is approximately 5 inches, with an XL option to increase it to 5 12 inches. If you pick this option, you may intensify your game by using double-handed tactics.
The grip material is perforated and padded, absorbing perspiration and impact.
The Core
Yes, there is a polymer honeycomb core in this paddle, however, it is particularly thick on this model. That is, it absorbs and diffuses vibration and sounds better than other silent paddles.
Conclusion of this paddle
As a result, the player may employ strength-based shots without fear of increased impact shock. Furthermore, polymer honeycomb cores tend to perform exactly as expected, making them the ideal choice for players of all skill levels!
Quiet Pickleball Paddles Buying Guide
Check out our silent pickleball paddle guide to round out our assessment of the quietest pickleball paddles on the market. In this section, we explain why silent pickleball technology has been included in paddles, as well as answer any other pertinent questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Quiet Pickleball Paddle?
Quiet pickleball paddles are those that have been Green-Zone Approved. This means they do not exceed the noise-making limitations imposed by many pickleball clubs and organizations. Pickleball paddles now have built-in sound-absorbing cores that minimize noise when ball-striking.
What Is A Green-Zone Approved Pickleball Paddle?
These paddles have appropriate noise levels and may be used on the Sun City Grand Pickleball Courts.
What Do Quiet Pickleball Paddles Have In Common?
The majority of pickleball paddles manufactured by companies currently have appropriate noise-canceling abilities. This means they have a core that absorbs shock and dampens sound when they make contact with the pickleball ball. Check out the paddles on our quiet list to ensure you’re getting a green-zone silent pickleball paddle.
Having said that, many of the most recent models on the market will also pass this test. Take, for example, the Onix X5 Wideboy, largely regarded as the greatest pickleball paddle available. While it does not appear on this list, it is a green-zone paddle that meets all silent pickleball testing.
How do you reduce the noise in pickleball?
Acoustifence is a soundproofing material that reduces the decibel level of the paddles and ball while also blocking wind. Once installed, complaints regarding noise levels or noise breaches generated by pickleball court players’ paddles should cease.
What are Quiet Pickleball Paddles?
Paddles that make less noise when you hit the pickleball are known as quiet pickleball paddles. When hitting the ball, some early-addition pickleball paddles were known to make a loud “popping” noise. This bothered individuals who were passing through the pickleball courts on their way to work. As a result, the top pickleball paddles now contain noise-canceling features that keep them quiet while in use.
Why do you need to play with Quiet Pickleball Paddles?
Some pickleball courts and organizations require that you use a Green-Zone-approved pickleball paddle to play. Green-Zone pickleball paddles have been tested and found to conform with the Sun City Grand Association’s noise level guidelines. If you’re unsure, check out our guide to silent pickleball paddles or consult the paddle specification before making a purchase. The noise tolerance guidelines are now met by a vast number of paddles.
What is a Green-Zone Pickleball Paddle?
Pickleball paddles that have been cleared for usage on courts that only allow silent pickleball paddle use are known as Green-Zone Pickleball Paddles. The majority of pickleball paddles are now sound-tested by the manufacturer to guarantee that they meet noise regulations. Check out our guide to silent pickleball paddles if you’re not sure.
How do I know if my Pickleball Paddle is Quiet?
Make sure you examine the paddle’s specs to see if you’re getting a silent pickleball paddle. The paddle has been noise tested and authorized for usage, as may be seen here.
Is there a quiet pickleball?
The Gamma Foam Quiet Pickleball is ideal for those who prefer a more quiet game. These balls are composed of a quiet foam rather than plastic. These balls are not sanctioned for competition use and will perform somewhat differently from plastic balls.
Are There Any Situations Where A Louder Paddle Is More Beneficial?
Yes, if you enjoy hearing and feeling the delightful pop of a more powerful paddle. Some people use the loudness and timbre of the paddle when it makes contact with the ball to determine the power of their shots. Plus, if there’s no reason for your paddle to be quiet, louder paddles are perfectly acceptable.
Of course, each paddle is unique, but there are no clear advantages to using a noisy paddle when playing. Quiet paddles are more pleasant in the hand and softer on the ears. A paddle with a quiet polymer core can be just as sensitive and easy to handle as one with a noisy core.
Are Quiet Paddles Durable?
Quiet paddles are no different from any other paddle in regards to durability. Having said that, our selection of quiet paddles only includes the finest paddles! These are high-quality goods that should last you a long time if you use them regularly.
Are Quiet Paddles Better For Playing Singles Or Doubles?
Both singles and doubles games are compatible with every paddle. Some are a little bit better for singles, and while this benefit is comparatively insignificant, we’ll briefly describe it as follows.
Since power shots are less likely to win doubles matches, lighter to medium weight paddles are often preferable. This is so that players may shoot the ball past a court covered by two players rather than just one. (Therefore, to perform dinks and drop shots, you’re more likely to need greater control.)
Conclusion
You’ve reached the bottom of our list of the Best Quiet Pickleball Paddles. We hope you’re ready to add one of these to your racquet collection now that you know what makes a paddle silent and all the perks that come with it! Read more about the best pickleball paddles for advanced players
The face, surface area, weight, grip, and core of these paddles have all been reviewed, as well as how they contribute to a silent paddle that plays well on the court. All of them feature the same fantastic polymer honeycomb core, which is the most effective at minimizing vibration and noise.
Finally, we had a quick question and answer segment where we looked at some of the most prevalent questions concerning silent paddles as well as answered some general questions about the sport.