These days, players are spending hundreds of dollars on the best pickleball paddles out there. However, when it comes to selecting the best pickleball balls, there’s often a lack of research and a tendency to just play with whatever pickleballs are closest to hand.
While it’s understandable, we recommend against neglecting your research into the best pickleballs. Although pickleball ball designs look similar, there is a very noticeable difference between striking good pickleball balls and a bad pickleball.
Here at PickyPickleball.com, we have created the ultimate guide to help you pick the best pickleball balls. We take a look at the best indoor pickleballs, as well as the leading outdoor pickleballs, to ensure that you pick up the right pickleballs, depending on where you’re looking to play.
We also walk you through the subtle differences between each pickleball, including the ball’s weight, construction, and how it flies through the air. Ensuring that you purchase USAPA approved pickleball balls that are constructed via quality manufacturing processes.
After you check out our top 10 best pickleball balls, you can also read our detailed pickleball balls buyers guide to find out everything you need to know when buying your next set of pickleballs.
Top 10 Best Pickleball Balls
Check out our review of the top 10 best pickleball balls. We show you the best indoor and outdoor pickleballs, as well as options for playing in low-light, or for quicker gameplay. Each of the pickleballs on our list is USAPA approved (unless we explicitly say).
1. Onix Pure 2 Outdoor Pickleballs
Our top pick for the best outdoor pickleball is the Onix Pure 2 Pickleball. This beautifully designed and made pickleball is suitable for all outdoor weather conditions, including wind and rain.
The Onix Pure 2 pickleballs have an unrivaled ball flight and respond off the pickleball paddle face as intended. Available in a host of different packet sizes, the Onix Pure 2 makes for an excellent pickleball for any player.
The Onix Pure 2 pickleball weighs 25 grams and measures 2.875″ across. Dropped from a height of 75″ onto a concrete floor, the balls bounces roughly 33″ in height, making it perfect for outdoor play. The Onix Pure 2 is constructed from two-pieces and is seamed across the middle of the ball. In total, there are 40 holes in the pickleball, and the Onix Pure 2 meets all USAPA guidelines and standards (and is approved for tournament use).
The great thing about the Onix Pure 2 is that it has smaller holes than the average pickleball, and weighs slightly more than most other outdoor pickleballs. This means it flies true through any weather conditions and is a brilliant pickleball for outdoor play.
What’s more, the Onix Pure 2 includes “Authentic Bounce Technology” at its core, this ensures that the ball bounces as you’d expect on any surface. Nothing is more frustrating than being let down by ball flight, bounce off the pickleball court, or impact off the paddle face. Say goodbye to those worries with the Onix Pure 2 Pickleball.
Standout Features
- “Authentic Bounce Technology” ensures even bounce on any pickleball court surface
- 40 Precision drilled holes in the pickleball create even ball flight
- 25-gram weight makes the ball perfect for outdoor pickleball play
- Often termed “the outdoor pickleball” it is the flagship Onix pickleball
2. Dura Fast 40 Outdoor Pickleballs
Next on our best pickleballs list is the Dura Fast 40 Outdoor Pickleball. What more is there to say about the Dura Fast 40 other than it is the official tournament pickleball for the US Open, Spanish Open, and the Bainbridge Cup.
The Dura Fast 40 has a seamless design and is made from a durable, hard plastic that stands up to hard play for long durations. The Dura Fast 40 could easily be named the best pickleball ball on the market and sits on our best pickleballs list as a close second.
The Dura Fast 40 Pickleball weighs just short of 26 grams and is constructed with a seamless design. The ball bounces around 32″ when dropped from a 75″ height, performing very similarly to the Onix Pure 2.
The Dura outdoor pickleball is designed with thick walls to ensure that it is durable, and has two hole sizes drilled into it – helping to create an even ball flight.
The Dura Fast 40 is heavier than most pickleballs which give it the required weight to fly in any weather conditions. On top of this, the diameter of the ball is 2.93″ which makes it slightly larger than other pickleballs. If you want a pickleball that is weightier than other pickleball balls, and that features a seamless design then pick the Dura Fast 40 pickleball. The ball also looks great and is available in four exciting colors (lime green, yellow, orange, and white).
Standout Features
- Seamless structure makes for an even weight distribution – available in orange, lime green, yellow and white
- Heavier ball weight ensures even flight path off the paddle face, customary with Dura pickleballs
- Used for years as the US Open Pickleball Championships official ball of choice
- Leading Dura outdoor pickleball, ideal for tournament play
3. Jugs Indoor Pickleballs
Next on our list is the Jugs Indoor pickleball and our pick as the best indoor pickleball ball out there. Unlike the Onix Pure 2 and the Dura Fast 40, the Jugs Indoor ball is built from a softer plastic that gives it a lightweight feel.
The Jugs ball also has larger holes that contribute to the light structure – a great ball on any indoor pickleball court surface, including smooth hardwood, tiles, and cement.
The Jugs Indoor pickleball ball is a great indoor pickleball. The Jugs ball weighs 22.6 grams and has a diameter of 2 7/8″. Thanks to it’s lighter weight structure; the Jugs ball will bounce 37″ when dropped from a 75″ height. This insane bounce-ability makes the Jugs Indoor pickleball a favorite amongst many indoor pickleball groups.
The Jugs indoor ball’s surface also has a slightly rough texture to its surface – creating more friction on the paddle face. Players who use the Just Indoor ball love this feature as it adds to the reactivity off the ball, especially playing spin or curve shots. The Jugs ball is available in green and white and is perfect for recreational use.
Standout Features
- Great indoor pickleball that is a favorite for many indoor players
- Insane bounce-ability, creating a very reactive and bouncy pickleball ball – creating fast, fun games
- Textured-surface make the ball ‘spinnable’
4. TOP Outdoor Pickleballs
Not many people know, but the next ball on our best pickleballs list is known as the ‘Top Outdoor Pickleball’, and so has been aptly named the TOP Pickleball.
This classic pickleball is known for its durability, hard-wearing plastic, and seamless design. With very similar performance to the Dura Fast 40, this is an excellent pickleball for outdoor use.
The TOP Outdoor Pickleball weighs just short of 25 grams, contains 40 multi-sized holes, and is constructed without a seam. When dropped from a height of 75″, the ball bounces 32″ making it a very consistent ball.
Like other pickleballs, the TOP ball is made from a rotational molding process that creates an even surface throughout the inside and outside of the ball.
Subsequently, this process makes the ball strong and durable, which helps create a very even flight path. The TOP ball meets all USAPA standards and guidelines and is available in yellow, orange, and white.
Available for purchase in large quantities, and suitable for back of court ball-striking practice, you cannot go far wrong with the TOP Outdoor Pickleball.
Standout Features
- USAPA approved pickleball, with seamless design
- Excellent ball-weight and construction make it a durable, strong ball
- Perfect for back of court ball-striking practice
5. Onix Fuse G2 Outdoor Pickleballs
The Onix Fuse G2 is another pickleball designed by Onix. The biggest difference between the Fuse and Pure balls, is the feel during contact. The Fuse has a lighter feel than the Pure 2 pickleball and is also available in green.
While we love the Pure 2 pickleballs, the Onix Fuse G2 is also a great option. Like the Pure 2 pickleballs, the Fuse G2’s are also two pieces welded together. This process Onix claim ensures that the ball is less likely to split while promoting sturdiness and durability. , the Fuse G2 also comes with 40 precision drilled small-holes, that ensure a consistent ball flight even in windy conditions.
Suitable for all court surfaces and a great pickleball for those who like to play with touch and control, the Onix Fuse G2’s are a great pickleball option. If you want a more weighty, harder ball, then pick the Onix Pure 2’s or the Dura Fast 40’s, otherwise don’t hesitate to purchase the Onix Fuse G2’s.
Standout Features
- Precision drilled holes ensure even flight path in any conditions
- For use indoors and outdoors and on any playing surface – 3x more durable than the previous Onix Fuse model
- Lighter feel during contact than the Onix Pure 2 Pickleballs
- Onix Fuse Indoor Pickleballs also available
6. Dura Indoor Big Hole Pickleballs
Next on our best pickleballs list is the Dura Indoor Big Hole Pickleball. Slightly lighter than the Dura Fast 40, the Indoor Big Hole ball has larger holes in the surface of the ball, which makes for a lighter touch during ball contact.
Construction-wise, there is no difference between then Dura indoor ball and the Fast 40’s, so if you want the same ball quality with an indoor focus, this ball is for you.
The Dura Indoor Big Hole Pickleballs are a huge favorite of indoor players. The ball is rotationally molded so that it does not have a seam, and is constructed from hard plastic that makes it super durable and hard-wearing. The larger ball holes make the ball lighter than the Dura Fast 40, and when dropped from a height of 75″, the ball bounces around 31″.
One of the great things about the Dura Indoor ball is that it’s available in loads of color variations, including white, green, yellow and white. If you want a ball that plays like the Fast ’40s but is more suitable for indoor use, select the Dura Indoor Big Hole pickleball.
Standout Features
- Larger holes make for a lighter weight ball than the Dura Fast 40’s
- Same seamless construction with hard plastic as the Dura Fast 40’s
- Heavy pickleball with even ball flight, and smooth contact off the face of the pickleball paddle
7. Jugs Midnight Indoor Pickleballs
The Jugs Midnight Indoor pickleball takes a very well-deserved place on our best pickleballs list. The Jugs Midnight ball is perfect for use in gyms and for players who want more contrast between the ball and their surroundings. With a distinct pink color, these balls are perfect for use during the day or in dim light.
First and foremost, the Jugs Midnight ball is a very energetic pickleball ball. The ball will bounce 37″ when dropped from a height of 75″ – making it a very bouncy ball. The Jugs Midnight ball is also lighter than most pickleballs, weighing around 22 grams. This mix of attributes makes it a really fun pickleball to play with if you like to play fast, indoor pickleball.
To put it simply, if you want a pickleball that stands out, plays light and fast, and is constructed from quality materials – pick the Jugs Midnight pickleball. If you want something heavier, then there are other indoor pickleball balls available that will better suit your needs. We’ll let you into a secret though… We love the midnight ball and it’s a ball we often use when playing indoor pickleball.
Standout Features
- Light, fast, energetic pickleball that is perfect for indoor use
- Bright pink design ensures the ball to stand out against dull indoor backgrounds
- Quality craftsmanship, ensuring durable, hard-wearing pickleball that will last
8. Nuipipo Indoor & Outdoor Pickleballs
Next up on our best pickleball balls list are the Nuipipo pickleball balls. Offering a solid outdoor pickleball that can also be used inside, this affordable, quality pickleball is a great option for anyone who wants a viable alternative to an Onix or Jugs ball.
The Nuipipo pickleballs are a great option for anyone looking for a solid, outdoor ball that plays like an Onix or Jugs ball. The Nuipipo balls feature precision drilled holes that ensure even ball-flight, while the ball is made from two heavier, symmetrical halves that are welded together seamlessly (not literally seamless!).
Also, the Nuipipo Pickleball balls are well balanced, weighing very similarly to the Onix Pure 2 pickleballs. What’s more, they include “Authentic Bounce Technology” which means they react very similarly when bouncing to other leading pickleball brands. If you are looking for a high-performing ball that is well-priced, then check out Niupipo pickleballs.
They’re a great alternative to the Onix and Jugs pickleballs higher up this guide.
Standout Features
- Weighty pickleballs with “Authentic Bounce Technology” – ensures strong flight path and even bouncing patterns
- Suitable for outdoor and indoor use
- Viable alternative to Onix and Jugs pickleballs
9. Franklin X-40 Outdoor Pickleballs
Number nine on our best pickleball balls list is the Franklin X-40. The Franklin Sports X-40 pickleballs are very sturdy, hard-wearing pickleballs that work great on an outdoor court. Available in dark green and pink shades (as well as white) they are the perfect option for someone who wants a quality pickleball that contrasts well against outdoor surroundings.
The Franklin X-40 pickleball balls are a great option for someone who wants a heavier pickleball for outdoor use. The Franklin Sports X-40’s weigh 26 grams and are constructed from hard-wearing plastic.
They are also constructed with a seamless design that prevents splitting and additional wear after heavy use. One of the best things about Franklin Pickleball X-40’s is that they are available in bright neon green or a dark shade of pink. This helps the X-40 stand out against any outdoor playing environment. On top of this, they have a very smooth surface, and 40 precision drilled holes around the surface, which give the ball amazing control and predictability in any weather conditions.
If you are looking for a stand-out, hard-wearing pickleball that is USAPA approved and suitable for outdoor use – pick Franklin X-40 pickleballs.
Standout Features
- Available in stand-out neon green and dark pink (as well as white) giving the ball contrast against outdoor environments
- Seamless design made from hard-wearing plastic ensures even ball flight and durability, thanks to the innovative hole pattern
- 26-gram pickleball weight sits within USAPA guidelines and is suitable for tournament use
10. GAMMA Photon Outdoor Pickleballs
The last pickleball on our best pickleballs list is the GAMMA Photon Outdoor pickleball. This versatile ball is suitable for intermediate to high-level players and has all the attributes of a top-level pickleball. Available in high-visibility colors, this pickleball stands out wherever you’re playing outdoor pickleball.
The GAMMA Photon Outdoor pickleball is made from two pieces that are welded together to give a seamless finish. The ball is USAPA approves and features 40 precision holes drilled into its surface, to provide excellent ball flight.
The GAMMA Sports ball itself is constructed from hard-wearing plastic, which makes the GAMMA Photon durable, sturdy, and capable of high-frequency play. If you are looking for a well-conditioned ball, that is balanced and stands out when playing outdoors; GAMMA Photon pickleballs could be for you.
Representing a viable alternative to Onix and Jugs, these outdoor pickleballs are a great option.
Standout Features
- High-visibility neon green coloring stands out when playing indoors or outdoors
- Sturdy, well-balanced pickleballs that are hard-wearing
- Conditioned straight out of the box, meaning they play perfectly from the first hit
Pickleball Balls Buyers Guide
Finding the ideal pickleball balls for yourself can be challenging if you don’t know what to consider. Factors such as the type, materials, weight, color, and size are crucial to take into account when picking the best pickleball balls in the market. And that is why we have created the pickleball buyers’ guide to help you find the most suitable pickleball ball for your game.
We’re confident that we have included all of the best pickleball balls on the market, but top pickleballs like the Penn 40 Outdoor Pickleball and the Onix Fude Indoor Pickleball didn’t make the list. That shows how competitive the indoor and outdoor pickleball market is.
Type: Indoor or Outdoor pickleball balls?
Outdoor pickleball balls are usually heavier and harder, made from smooth plastic. These may typically have 40 drilled holes, and they deflect way less given their weight and construction.
These types of pickleballs are generally more responsive than indoor pickleball balls, and easier to hit. Also, these balls have a greater bounce and have less drag than indoor balls. But, on the downside, outdoor balls can be more difficult to control as they need to be placed and hit accurately.
Indoor pickleball balls, on the other hand, are typically softer and feature larger holes than outdoor balls. And although they are easier to control, it can be harder to slam them, since they have more drag. However, the texture on these balls allows you to give them more spin.
Durability and longevity
The total lifespan of a pickleball ball may vary from a few rounds to substantially longer periods. Outdoor pickleballs may not last longer than the indoor ones. You can expect them to crack or go out-of-round after a while, for that matter. While indoor pickleball can last for longer periods. And although indoor balls don’t generally crack, they will develop soft spots after extended periods of use.
The longevity of a pickleball ball depends on factors such as the playing surface, how hard the ball is hit, the temperature of the surroundings, etc. The durability of these balls will vary from one brand to another. And some will crack earlier than others.
Manufacturing
Pickleball balls are manufactured using either an injection-molding method or a rotational molding process. Indoor balls are primarily made by injection molding, where the two halves are glued at the seams together.
This is one of the main reasons why indoor balls get soft-spots and lose their shapes over time. On the other hand, outdoor pickleball balls are typically made using the rotational molding method that eliminates all weak spots. This makes the pickleball balls much more durable and capable of resisting substantial impacts.
Material
The best pickleball balls are made using thermoset plastics such as acrylic, melamine, epoxies, etc. Thermoset plastics are heated and cooled and molded into the required shapes to form a durable structure. Materials such as virgin thermoset pellets or aged pellets are primarily used to make pickleball balls. Virgin plastic is a superior-quality material that ensures higher durability, and that is why it is generally used to manufacture outdoor pickleball balls.
Color
Pickleball balls usually come in a wide range of loud, popping colors. The most popular ones include orange, yellow and white for outdoor pickleball balls. But, you could also find shades like lime-green, midnight-dyed, or multicolored ones for indoor balls. The colors of a pickleball ball help you locate and hit it even in poor light conditions. This is a vital aspect to know of, before settling on any shade so that you perform better with it even in the absence of natural light.
Diameter and weight
Getting the weight and the diameter of your pickleball ball right is a crucial aspect, which significantly affects your overall performance. For an indoor pickleball ball, you can go with an approximate weight of 0.81 with a 2.8 inches diameter. While, on the other hand, outdoor pickleball balls will be a bit heavy, weighing around 0.9 oz with a 2.9 inches diameter. These figures will help you make the most out of a quality pickleball ball in every match that you play.
Conclusion
And that concludes our extensive guide to some of the best pickleball balls you can find out there in the market right now. We hope that we were able to help you come to a well-informed decision about the subject of pickleballs. Here’s wishing you all the best for your upcoming pickleball event. Also, check our recent reviews on pickleball Shoes and Nets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pickleball Balls?
Pickleball balls are hollow, plastic balls that are used to play the popular sport of pickleball. Pickleballs are approved by the USAPA (USA Pickleball Association) for official use, and are generally classified into indoor and outdoor pickleball categories. Here at PickyPickleball.com we compare and review all of the best pickleballs on the market.
What are Pickleballs made from?
Pickleballs are made from hard-wearing plastic, and contain specially drilled holes in their surface which aid ball-flight. Some pickleballs are made with a seamless design in a process of rotational-molding, whereas others are constructed by welding two halves of the ball together.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor Pickleballs?
Indoor pickleballs tend to be lighter than outdoor pickleballs as they have larger holes drilled into their surface area. Indoor pickleballs can have larger holes as they do not need to worry about the impact of wind on their ball-flight. Outdoor pickleballs also tend to be heavier than indoor pickleballs, as they need the weight to combat windy or rainy weather conditions. All indoor and outdoor pickleballs need to be approved by the USAPA for official tournament use.
Who makes Pickleballs?
There are so many brands out there that manufacture pickleballs. Some of the best and well-known brands include Onix, Jugs and Franklin. If you are looking to purchase a bag of pickleballs, make sure you check out our guide to the best pickleball balls available.
What are the best Pickleballs you can buy?
There are some great pickleballs available for purchase via PickyPickleball.com. These balls include the Onix Pure 2 Outdoor pickleball, Dura Fast 40 and the Jugs Indoor Pickleball. With that said, choosing the best pickleball for you really comes down to your unique needs. There are balls that are designed for indoor and outdoor use, as well as balls that are colored with high-contrast colors to stand out against dull backdrops. We also show you balls that are not approved by the USAPA but still make a great ball for recreational use. Check out our best pickleballs guide to learn more.
