Welcome to our review of our Five Best Pickleball Paddles renowned for their exceptional power… Gearbox, Selkirk, ProKennex, Electrum, and Head.
Table of Contents
Best Pickleball Paddles for Power
We’ll be discussing our Five Best Pickleball Paddles for power and substantial potential.
Just like any other list where we rank products, we’ll maintain impartiality and provide an honest review of the paddles that demonstrated the highest power when striking a pickleball.
#1 Gearbox for Power
The Gearbox CX11E Power Pickleball Paddle offers speed and power, perfect for aggressive players or those seeking more spin behind their shots.
This specific paddle has been expertly designed to cater to players who prefer a more aggressive game style. Or those seeking to add extra power to their spin shots.
Its unique construction and material composition make it an ideal choice for enhancing your game-play and giving you the edge you need on the court.
This series utilizes Gearbox’s unique Solid Span Technology (SST)
Specs:
- Surface Material: Carbon Fiber
- Core Material: T-700 Carbon Fiber
- Core Thickness: 11 mm
- Paddle Length: 16.63 in.
- Paddle Width: 7.375 in.
- Handle Length: 5.625 in.
- Edge Guard: Edgeless
- Grip: Gearbox Smooth Black Grip
- Color: Blue, Green, Orange
- USA Pickleball Approved
These reviews come from our customers, as well as from Amazon and reputable brands of pickleball paddles.
Paddles are rated on a scale of 1 to 5 stars, with accompanying comments provided for each rating level.
These reviews are based on a minimum of 100 reviews.
To save time, I have condensed all the reviews into shorter sentences.
Reviews:
5 Stars: 3 Different Reviews
This paddle is lightweight and powerful, just as advertised. I initially bought a size too small but am growing into it. Opting for a larger grip would have been better for my hand size. Despite this, I love the paddle’s performance and feel and would purchase it again. It has improved my game with its extended reach.
3 Stars:
When I acquired this paddle, I was pleasantly surprised by its feather-like weight, a stark contrast to the heavier paddles I’m accustomed to.
While it’s a commendable piece of equipment, it doesn’t quite align with my personal preference. Its slim design further intrigued me. Perhaps, in hindsight, a bit more research would have guided me towards an even better fit.
2 Stars:
My husband, the avid Pickleball enthusiast, wasn’t pleased with how the handle felt in his hand.
#2 Selkirk for Power
The Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Epic is the ultimate paddle in the Power Air series. Perfect for beginners and those looking to enhance their skills.
The Selkirk Vanguard Power Pickleball Paddle is a result of innovative technologies and over 2 years of research.
The Vanguard Power Air revolutionizes Pickleball technology with enhanced power and spin, showcasing an aerodynamic design for faster swings.
The Selkirk Vanguard Power Air paddles offer a larger sweet spot, making them ideal for power players seeking maximum spin and precision in their shots.
Specs:
- Surface Texture: Rough
- Surface Material: Hybrid Composite
- Core Material: Polymer
- Core Thickness: 12.7 mm
- Paddle Length: 15.75 in.
- Paddle Width: 8 in.
- Handle Length: 5.25 in.
- Grip Size: 4 1/4
- Edge Guard: Edgeless
- Grip: Selkirk Geo Grip
- Color: White & Red
- Made in the USA
- USA Pickleball Approved
Reviews:
If you’re serious about Pickleball then this is an excellent paddle.
5 Stars:
Don’t expect to play a tournament with it on the first day as it takes a little time to get used to. The sound is different from most paddles and after a week I am starting to get used to it.
Its a little larger than my old PB Paddle but it’s a giant improvement and a great paddle.
The Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Pickleball Paddles are a game-changer! Exceptional quality, the pinnacle of performance. As a Pickleball enthusiast, these paddles are pure perfection, offering unparalleled precision and power. Selkirk has truly outdone themselves with this carbon fiber masterpiece. If you’re serious about Pickleball, this is the absolute best on the market. Get ready to elevate your game to new heights with the 360 standard!
Reviews sourced from Amazon, brand companies, and other channels
4 Stars:
So for $250, I would rather get the Lux Control Air. This is also a very good paddle, but feels like for advanced players. I’m a beginner and it was a lot for me to handle. You have to get used to it and practice a lot on it to get the hang of it. Bad shots will vibrate in your hand.
Hence my opinion if you have $250 to spend get the Selkirk Lux Control Air or one from gearbox.
These are all verified purchases from customers
If you’re serious about Pickleball then this is an excellent paddle.
Great racquet. Just received and played for the first time with the racquet. Didn’t miss a beat… felt like I had been playing with the racquet for a long time. Racquet very responsive to all shots and serves. Would recommend for a more advanced player.
I was a bit disappointed in the slow delivery, about 10 days. Also, friends who ordered the exact item received lead tape to use help change the weight…I did not receive that. Finally, spending $250 for a paddle I expected to also receive a protective cover, but did not.
3 Stars:
I’ve been playing with a Gearbox CX14e. This paddle does not have the pop that the Gearbox does. Took me about 3 hits to determine I needed something with more pop.
2 Stars:
Not Happy So Far….
The paddle plays very well. Generates good power, spin and decent control. However, the coating on the face chipped on my second day playing with… I did not hit the ground or another paddle. A simple mis-hit shouldn’t cause this, but somehow did….
Really hoping I just got a lemon so the replacement has been ordered. Selkirk is my favorite brand of paddle, but this is disappointing to say the least especially for such an expensive paddle. Will update my review after playing with the replacement for a couple months.
#3 ProKennex Black ACE XF
Unleash power with the ProKennex Black Ace XF (Extra Face) paddle – the longest and mightiest in its family.
The elongated paddle face boosts player reach, raises the sweet spot for better leverage at contact, resulting in increased power and spin.
This paddle is a groundbreaking creation, featuring a Toray Raw Carbon Fiber surface. It’s the ultimate blend of aerodynamics and innovation, setting new standards in paddle design.
ProKennex technology protects players and maximizes energy transfer for optimal performance on the court.
Micro-tungsten beads in the paddle absorb impact vibrations, protecting your joints from unnecessary strain.
The Black Ace by ProKennex gets an extra boost with a new kinetic system in the handle, filtering shock and vibration. Tungsten beads inside the system are visible through the paddle’s end cap.
MIT Labs study: ProKennex’s Kinetic system reduces arm vibration by 43%, minimizing damage.
Specs:
- Core Material: Polymer
- Core Thickness: 10 mm
- Paddle Length: 16.4 in.
- Paddle Width: 7.5 in.
- Handle Length: 5.1 in.
- Edge Guard: Kinetic
- Color: Black
- Grip: ProKennex Comfort Cushion
- USA Pickleball Approved
Reviews:
5 Stars – 3 reviews
I play Pickleball everyday and own several top rated paddles. I purchased my first Black Ace in late 2023 and I was so impressed that I purchased another one.. this paddle is amazing.. it provides me with more power, control, and it’s helped me with my tennis elbow.. The Black Ace is the real deal..
Great paddle for power and spin. Takes some time to get comfortable with your dinking. Speed ups are great.
I enjoy this paddle I enjoy the extended face as well it doe have dead spots on edges of the paddle but lots of power… this is the best pickleball paddles for power.
3 Stars:
It was not for me. I like smaller.
2 Stars:
If the ball hits the sweet spot, it’s fine, but there are 4 dead spots on the corners on both sides, and the ball pops and goes dead. I am returning this paddle. For $250, it should be made better!
1 Stars:
Poor workmanship on a $250 racquet, judging by others who have had the same issues with no response from this company tends me to believe that they knowingly buy paddles or equipment with issues and sell them as new. It would be one thing to offer a replacement or a refund, nothing but crickets.
#4 Electrum Pro II
Electrum Pro II is the advanced version of Electrum Pro software, offering exceptional performance and features. Let’s explore its pros and cons.
Pros:
- Enhanced Performance: Electrum Pro II offers improved speed and efficiency, allowing users to carry out tasks seamlessly without any lag or delays.
- Advanced Features: This version comes packed with new features that enhance usability and functionality, making it a versatile tool for various applications.
- User-Friendly Interface: The interface of Electrum Pro II is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate, ensuring a smooth user experience for both beginners and experienced users.
- Security: With robust security measures in place, users can trust Electrum Pro II to keep their data safe and secure from potential threats.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: Due to its advanced features, new users may find it challenging to grasp all the functionalities of Electrum Pro II quickly.
- Cost: The advanced capabilities of Electrum Pro II come at a price, which may be a drawback for budget-conscious individuals or small businesses.
- Compatibility Issues: Some users may encounter compatibility issues with certain operating systems or devices when using Electrum Pro II, requiring additional troubleshooting.
This is quickly becoming one of my favorite paddles! Looking forward to continuing to play with it:
Specs:
- Weight: 7.9 – 8.4 oz.
- Surface Material: Carbon Fiber
- Core Material: Polymer
- Core Thickness: 11 mm
- Paddle Length: 16 in.
- Paddle Width: 8 in.
- Handle Length: 5.25 in.
- Grip Size: 4 1/4″
- Edge Guard: Yes
- Color: Black
- USA Pickleball Approved
Reviews:
5 Stars:
I play Pickle ball 3x a week, and I play in a competitive Tournament. It is very important that I use a paddle that has great control, right weight, durable, and it has a carbon fiber for powerful spin performance. So far this is my favorite paddle.
This is THE BEST in its class!!!
A true quality paddle for your next level of competition! It is light yet so durable and makes my hits seem flawless. Better control and all my pickle-ball friends see how much better it’s made my game.
I’ve been playing pickleball for a little over a year. It was time to invest in a quality paddle, and look for one that would give me a better feel for ball control. This paddle is beautiful for that. My serve has become very versatile, my dinking just feels more natural and comfortable. Well worth the investment for something that I am learning to love.
Nice spin – More pop and spin from this paddle. I like the feel, grip and weight.
Just the right way, grip and texture for an above average pickler.
4 Stars:
Lots of spin control durability. Ship packaging was not the best. Came in bag not box. Could have been subject to damage. Great paddle though
I like this paddle a lot. It has a 4″ grip (length), is 15.5″ tall and 8.5″ wide. It also isn’t super heavy, coming in at ~8 oz.
This is quickly becoming one of my favorite paddles! Looking forward to continuing to play with it.
3 Stars:
I like everything about this paddle except for the 4 inch grip. The paddle I currently use has a 5.5” grip so this is a dramatic change for me. I have large hands and there isn’t much room on the grip. I like the extra width of the paddle, the solid sweet spot, and grit on the paddle face. I’m just struggling with the grip. If you have average size hands and don’t use a two handed backhand, then this may be a great paddle for you.
2 Stars:
I hear Electrum Pro before pro 2 used it for 6 months and it had some serious dead spots. Got this one and and dead spot came up with in a month. Great paddle but inconsistent. I wish I could return this.
This is quickly becoming one of my favorite paddles! Looking forward to continuing to play with it.
Writer’s Opinion:
This is quickly becoming one of my favorite paddles! Looking forward to continuing to play with it.
The 4.5″ circumference grip is comfortable for prolonged use (2+ hours), with good tackiness for sweat absorption.
I love the widebody paddle offers a larger sweet spot and spin control with its carbon fiber face (Toray T700).
It comes with a protective sleeve to maintain its condition when not in use.
#5 Head Extreme Tour Max
The Head Extreme Tour Max paddle, weighing 8. 1 oz, offers added power and superior touch.
The paddle has an OTC honeycomb core and a GHS carbon graphite hitting surface for excellent feel and control.
The Extreme Tour Max offers a unique Diamond Shape for control and Extreme Spin Texture for enhanced ball bite, providing extra power.
Specs:
- Weight: 8.1 oz.
- Surface Texture: Rough
- Surface Material: Graphite
- Core Material: Polymer
- Core Thickness: 11 mm
- Paddle Length: 16.0 in.
- Paddle Width: 7.87 in.
- Handle Length: 5 in.
- Edge Guard: Yes
- Color: Black
- Grip: Head HydroSorb Pro
- USA Pickleball Approved
Reviews:
5 Stars:
Great paddle with nice pop and the ability to spin. Small handle is good, especially for women. The grip feels great (though does get dirty a bit fast) but I love the black/yellow color and overall versatility of this paddle.
Great value for a quality paddle
Good paddle for those that want more control and don’t need extra power
Great Solid Paddle
I am a 3.5 player. I love this paddle. It is slightly heavier at 8.1 Ounces. Its returns are solid even with an off center hit.. It spins well but the gravity paddle has a slightly rougher surface if you really want spin
I like the specs of this paddle weight & grip size perfectly fits.
4 Stars:
Poppy and Snappy, Head light
Paddle model is a couple of years old and at the rate paddles develop- this one is practically ancient!
Although marketed as a control paddle- not sure how that is correct given that it is only 11mm thin.
It is very headlight and easy to maneuver.
Still trying to learn how to get spin on this surface but overall, a great paddle to learn with.
This being a head paddle, the handle is excellent and the grip is plush.
3 Stars:
So far so good
Good overall use. Small sweet spot (not for beginners). Good mobility at the net with good pop. Easy maneuverability. Not good for strong baseline hitting, which is due to small “sweet spot.”
2 Stars:
Was inspired to buy from the Tour series after watching experienced players and a pro use this paddle. Feels good to hold: the thin handle and head light feel allows for very easy wrist action but when playing, felt like the paddle has a small sweet spot and lacked power.
There’s an extensive selection of pickleball paddles to choose from, each boasting its own distinctive features.
Alongside our selection of the Best Pickleball Paddles for Power, we’ve curated a list of the top 5 Pickleball Paddles for Control.
For those seeking straightforward, budget-friendly options, just CLICK HERE.
