According to a recent research report, the global pickleball paddle market size in 2024 was estimated to be USD 0.18 billion, but that figure is estimated to grow by 8% annually until 2023.
With that size of a market, you are going to see paddles from 14mm to 16mm to 20mm in thickness.
When I was shopping for my first Vatic Pro paddle, I hit a roadblock. I kept seeing two options: 14mm and 16mm, and had no idea which one to choose. I wasn’t a pro, just a passionate rec player trying to get better without choosing the “wrong” paddle that might ruin my game.
So I dove into the research rabbit hole… and got even more confused.
Here’s the simplified version I wish I had found back then plus a breakdown of how paddle thickness can actually impact your game, along with my favorite paddles in each category.
14mm vs 16mm: What’s the Real Difference?
The numbers refer to the thickness of the paddle’s core. The best pickleball paddles generally have a paddle thickness between 14mm and 20mm.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 14mm paddles = more pop, spin, and quicker reactions.
- 16mm paddles = more control, consistency, and forgiveness.
Beginners and intermediate players often gravitate toward 16mm paddles because of the control they offer. More advanced players may prefer the added pop and responsiveness of a 14mm.
My Top 14mm and 16mm Paddle Picks
I’ve tested more than 50 paddles (yes, I have a problem), so here are my personal favorites, whether you’re on a budget or looking for premium performance.
Favorite Budget 14mm Paddle: Vatic Pro Prism Flash
Affordable, fast, and full of pop. If you’re spending under $100, this paddle’s hard to beat, especially with the discount code. It’s lightweight and offers awesome speed at the net.
Favorite Premium 14mm Paddle: Holbrook Aero Series
The Holbrook Aero T is a high-end paddle that balances power and finesse. With a discount code, you can knock $30 off the retail price. If you like techy paddles with sleek design and serious feel, give this one a look.
Favorite Budget 16mm Paddle: PBVMURTG
I started winning more games when I swapped my $200 paddle for this under-$50 mystery model. Great balance, surprising control, and fun to play with if you’re not worried about brand names.
Favorite Premium 16mm Paddle: JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16
There’s a reason Ben Johns used to dominate with this paddle. It’s got control, power, and touch all in one. I actually prefer this model to his newer one, the Perseus. It just feels solid on every shot.
Want a Shortcut? Take the Paddle Quiz
If you’re overwhelmed by paddle choices, you can take a quick pickleball paddle quiz to help narrow things down. It asks about your play style, experience, and preferences, and recommends a few good fits.
But if you’d rather keep reading, here’s how paddle thickness impacts four core areas of play.
How Does Paddle Thickness Affect Your Game?
Power
Thinner paddles (like 14mm) typically give more pop off the face, which can help you hit harder shots. But power doesn’t mean much without control, so if you tend to mishit or lack finesse, the 16mm may feel more powerful overall due to its forgiveness.
Winner: 14mm for pure power, 16mm for dependable force.
Control
Control is where the 16mm shines. The extra thickness helps absorb impact, allowing you to place shots more accurately. If your goal is to win with smart play and ball placement, this is your friend.
Winner: 16mm
Spin
Because the 14mm paddle tends to bite the ball better, you’ll find it easier to generate spin, especially on serves and third shot drops. It grips more, flexes less, and gives you that satisfying curve.
Winner: 14mm
Speed
A thinner paddle is often lighter, which means faster hands at the net and quicker reaction time. That can be a game-changer when things get fast.
Winner: 14mm
One Last Consideration: Your Hand Size
If you have smaller hands, the thinner grip that often comes with a 14mm paddle may feel more comfortable. On the flip side, larger hands may feel more at home with a chunkier 16mm handle.
So, Which Should You Choose?
If you’re newer to the sport or value consistency, go with a 16mm paddle. It’s easier to control, more forgiving, and just makes learning the game feel smoother.
If you’re already confident in your mechanics and want to step up your game with faster reflexes, spin, and power, try a 14mm.
Or, if you’re like me and can’t decide, take the pickleball paddle quiz to do what’s best.
Want to Know What the Pros Use?
Some of the top athletes in the game lean toward one thickness over the other depending on their style. For example, Anna Leigh Waters a phenom in the pickleball world, may use a paddle designed for speed and control.
Curious how that ties into her success?
You can check out Anna Leigh Waters’ net worth here to see how her dominance on the court translates off with money in her pocket.
Final Thoughts
The 14mm vs 16mm debate doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. But hopefully, this breakdown helps you figure out which fits you better.
And remember: even the pros don’t all use the same paddle. It comes down to how you play, what you value, and what feels good in your hands.
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