Pickleball vs Paddleball: Now You Know
If you've ever confused pickleball vs paddleball, you're not alone. Both are exciting paddle sports, but they’re played differently and offer unique experiences.
Here’s everything you need to know to decide which is right for you.
🏓 What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It’s played with a plastic perforated ball and a lightweight paddle, typically on a small court with a low net.
- Played on a 20’ x 44’ court
- Underhand serves only
- Includes a "no-volley zone" called the kitchen
- Popular across all age groups
- Can be played indoors or outdoors
🔵 What Is Paddleball?
Paddleball refers to a few different sports, but the most popular is one-wall paddleball—played on a wall court similar to handball, using a solid paddle and a rubber ball.
- Played on a single-wall court
- Uses a small, dense rubber ball
- Solid paddle with no holes or textures
- Fast-paced, wall-rebound gameplay
- Focuses on speed and precision
🆚 Pickleball vs Paddleball: Main Differences
| Feature | Pickleball | Paddleball |
|---|---|---|
| Court | Net court (20x44 ft) | One-wall court |
| Ball | Plastic with holes | Rubber |
| Paddle | Lightweight, textured | Solid, heavier |
| Game Style | Net-play, dinks, and rallies | Wall-play, reflex-driven |
| Scoring | First to 11 (win by 2) | Often up to 21 |
🎯 Which Should You Try?
Choose pickleball if you:
- Enjoy strategic net games
- Want to play outdoors with a social crowd
- Prefer a sport that’s easier on joints
Choose paddleball if you:
- Like handball-style wall action
- Enjoy faster-paced rallies
- Want a game with intense reflex demands
🛍️ Do They Use the Same Gear?
Nope! Each sport has specific gear:
- Pickleball paddles are lightweight, often made with carbon fiber and designed for spin and control.
- Paddleball paddles are solid and heavier to handle wall rebounds.
👉 Want a paddle that reflects your personality? Check out ARTé Pickleball—where bold design meets performance. Beautiful, ergonomic, and built for power.
If you're just getting started with pickleball and don’t want to settle for a cheap, low-quality paddle, ARTÉ Pickleball has you covered. Our paddles are designed specifically for beginners who want more—more control, more style, and more confidence with every swing. Durable, beautiful, and beginner-friendly, ARTé paddles help you stand out while leveling up your game.
🏁 Final Thoughts on Pickleball vs Paddleball
Whether you’re volleying across a net or slamming a rubber ball off a wall, both sports offer fun, fitness, and fierce competition. Knowing the difference between pickleball vs paddleball helps you choose the paddle sport that fits your vibe.
Now you know. 🎾