7 Quietest Pickleball Paddles That Won’t Disturb Neighbors 2024
In the rapidly growing world of pickleball, one issue has been causing a racket: noise. The characteristic “pop” of the ball against the paddle can be disruptive, especially in residential areas. This has led to a surge in demand for quieter pickleball paddles, particularly among Canadian pickleballers.
The industry has responded with innovative solutions, from using softer materials like fiberglass to designing paddles with noise-dampening features. This article will delve into the 7 quietest pickleball paddles available in Canada, providing a valuable resource for players seeking to enjoy their game without disturbing the peace.
How we Pick and Test? Our selection and testing process for the quietest pickleball paddles begins with an initial pick of 35+ paddles. We then dedicate 9 hours of rigorous research and testing at our indoor and outdoor facilities. Our team also reaches out to 4 industry experts for their insights and recommendations. They emphasize the importance of factors such as paddle weight, grip comfort, and the material of the paddle core and face. After this comprehensive process, we conclude that these 7 pickleball paddles are the best for reducing noise during play, ensuring a peaceful game for both players and bystanders.
Paddle | Best For | Features | Shop Now |
---|---|---|---|
Diadem Warrior V2 Pickleball Paddle | General play | Quieter than most paddles, suitable for noise-sensitive areas | Shop on Amazon |
JOOLA Perseus 16mm Pickleball Paddle | Players seeking control and power | Quieter design, offers good balance between control and power | Shop on Amazon |
Electrum Model E Elite Pickleball Paddle | Competitive play | Quieter paddle with high performance | Shop on Amazon |
Engage Pursuit MX Ultra 6.0 Pickleball Paddle | Advanced players | Quieter paddle with advanced features for competitive play | Shop on Amazon |
CRBN 3X Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle | Players seeking lightweight paddle | Quieter design, lightweight and durable | Shop on Amazon |
The OWL by OWL Sport | Players in noise-sensitive areas | First-ever USA Pickleball quiet category-compliant paddle, reduces noise by 50%, features like vibration dampening and anti-head heavy balancing | Shop on Amazon |
Alpha Sonic XL 17mm (Raw Carbon) | Players seeking control and spin | Super thick poly core for unrivaled control, touch, and spin, very quiet | Shop on Amazon |
The Problem with Most Quietest Pickleball Paddles
As a pickleball enthusiast, I’ve noticed a recurring issue in our community: the noise. The characteristic “pop” sound that a pickleball paddle makes when it hits the ball can be quite disruptive, especially in residential areas. This has led to a surge in demand for quieter pickleball paddles. However, the problem with most of these so-called quiet paddles is that they often compromise on other important aspects of the game.
Firstly, many of these paddles are designed with softer materials like fiberglass to reduce noise. While this does make them quieter, it can also affect the paddle’s performance. Harder materials tend to produce louder sounds, but they also provide better power and control. This means that players using quieter paddles may find themselves at a disadvantage in terms of gameplay.
Secondly, there’s a lack of standardization when it comes to the noise levels of pickleball paddles. The USA Pickleball Association has approved more than 1.9k paddles, but their approval process doesn’t take noise levels into account. This means that a paddle marketed as “quiet” may not actually be significantly quieter than a regular paddle.
Lastly, the noise problem isn’t just about the paddles. The type of ball used can also contribute to the noise. Outdoor balls, which are typically harder and have smaller holes, usually create more noise when struck compared to softer, indoor balls. Therefore, even if you’re using a quiet paddle, the type of ball you’re using could still cause a disturbance.
Top 7 Quietest Pickleball Paddles for Peaceful Play
Diadem Warrior V2 Pickleball Paddle
The Diadem Warrior V2 Pickleball Paddle is renowned for its noise reduction capabilities, making it an ideal choice for Canadian pickleballers seeking a whisper-quiet experience. Its advanced materials and design cater to a controlled playing style, even in outdoor play during cold weather conditions.
Best For:
- Noise-sensitive environments
- Precision play focus
- Control-oriented players
- Soft touch and dink shots
- Spin-oriented gameplay
Quick Specs:
- Material: Carbon Fiber with Etched Surface
- Core: Polypropylene honeycomb and Aramid honeycomb
- Dimensions: 16.4″ x 7.4″
- Weight: 8.25 oz
- Grip Size: 4 1/8 inches
The Diadem Warrior V2 Pickleball Paddle stands out for its silent play, thanks to its noise-dampening polypropylene honeycomb core and carbon fiber with silent coating. This paddle is particularly suited for control paddles and soft touch plays, which are less noisy compared to powerful drives. It’s a great fit for Canadian pickleballers who often play outdoors and in cold weather conditions, and it is approved by the Canadian Pickleball Association (CPA).
In comparison to other quiet paddles like the Paddletek Tempest and Onix Z5 Graphite, the Diadem Warrior V2 offers a unique combination of materials for noise reduction and playing efficiency. Its carbon fiber surface with EVA foam enhances the quietness and durability of the paddle. The paddle’s design also supports a playing style that emphasizes control and spin, making it a top choice for players who prioritize these aspects over sheer power.
The Diadem Warrior V2 is a competitive alternative to other models such as the Gearbox GX7 Silent Paddle, offering a balance between noise reduction and playing performance. While it may not be the lightest paddle on the market, its design compensates by providing a comfortable grip and a stable feel during play, which can be particularly beneficial during long matches or practice sessions.
In terms of benefits, the Diadem Warrior V2 helps reduce neighbor complaints and enhances court etiquette, making it ideal for enjoyable night-time play and players who focus on precision play. While there are noise-reduction techniques beyond paddle choice, such as using pickleball nets with noise dampening panels or playing on softer court surfaces, the Diadem Warrior V2 provides a straightforward solution for players looking to minimize their noise impact.
Overall, the Diadem Warrior V2 is a technologically advanced paddle that offers a blend of power, control, and noise reduction, making it a top pick for players at all levels.
JOOLA Perseus 16mm Pickleball Paddle
The JOOLA Perseus 16mm Pickleball Paddle is a top-tier paddle designed for competitive play. Engineered with direct feedback from the world’s number one pickleball player, Ben Johns, it offers impressive power, control, and a large sweet spot for optimal performance.
Best For:
- Competitive play
- Power and control balance
- Large sweet spot utilization
- Noise reduction
- Cold weather conditions
Quick Specs:
- Average Weight: 226.8 g (8 oz)
- Paddle Length: 41.9 cm (16.5 in)
- Paddle Width: 19 cm (7.5 in)
- Grip Length: 14 cm (5.5 in)
- Core Thickness: 16 mm
The JOOLA Perseus 16mm Pickleball Paddle is a standout in the market, thanks to its unique blend of power, control, and a large sweet spot. The paddle’s Charged Carbon surface technology provides impressive power and pop, while the Reactive Honeycomb Polymer Core bolsters the size of the sweet spot and dampens noise. This makes it an excellent choice for players seeking a balance between power and control, as well as those who prefer a quieter paddle.
Compared to other popular paddles like the Paddletek Tempest, Onix Z5 Graphite, Senston Quiet Paddle, and Gearbox GX7 Silent Paddle, the JOOLA Perseus 16mm stands out for its unique blend of power and control. It’s also noted for its noise reduction capabilities, thanks to its thick core and carbon fiber face.
The paddle’s design is further enhanced by a grippy Carbon Friction textured surface, which generates maximum spin and control. This feature, combined with the paddle’s elongated shape and thick core, provides all-court power and performance.
The JOOLA Perseus 16mm Pickleball Paddle is also suitable for outdoor play and cold weather conditions, making it a great choice for Canadian pickleballers. It’s approved by the Canadian Pickleball Association (CPA), further attesting to its quality and performance.
In conclusion, the JOOLA Perseus 16mm Pickleball Paddle is a high-quality, performance-oriented paddle that offers a unique blend of power, control, and noise reduction. Its features and design make it a top pick for competitive players and those seeking a quieter paddle.
Electrum Model E Elite Pickleball Paddle
The Electrum Model E Elite Pickleball Paddle is a high-performance paddle designed for competitive play. It offers a unique blend of power, control, and noise reduction, making it a top choice for serious pickleballers.
Best For:
- Competitive play
- Power and control balance
- Noise reduction
- Cold weather conditions
- Spin-oriented gameplay
Quick Specs:
- Average Weight: 7.8 – 8.2 oz
- Paddle Length: 15.75 inches
- Paddle Width: 8 inches
- Grip Length: 5 inches
- Core: Polypropylene Honeycomb
The Electrum Model E Elite Pickleball Paddle is a standout in the market, thanks to its unique blend of power, control, and noise reduction. The paddle’s graphite face provides impressive power and pop, while the polypropylene honeycomb core bolsters the size of the sweet spot and dampens noise. This makes it an excellent choice for players seeking a balance between power and control, as well as those who prefer a quieter paddle.
Compared to other popular paddles like the Paddletek Tempest, Onix Z5 Graphite, Senston Quiet Paddle, and Gearbox GX7 Silent Paddle, the Electrum Model E Elite stands out for its unique blend of power and control. It’s also noted for its noise reduction capabilities, thanks to its thick core and graphite face.
The paddle’s design is further enhanced by a grippy textured surface, which generates maximum spin and control. This feature, combined with the paddle’s elongated shape and thick core, provides all-court power and performance.
The Electrum Model E Elite Pickleball Paddle is also suitable for outdoor play and cold weather conditions, making it a great choice for Canadian pickleballers. It’s approved by the Canadian Pickleball Association (CPA), further attesting to its quality and performance.
In conclusion, the Electrum Model E Elite Pickleball Paddle is a high-quality, performance-oriented paddle that offers a unique blend of power, control, and noise reduction. Its features and design make it a top pick for competitive players and those seeking a quieter paddle.
Engage Pursuit MX Ultra 6.0 Pickleball Paddle
The Engage Pursuit MX Ultra 6.0 Pickleball Paddle is a top-tier paddle that combines control, power, and spin. It’s a flagship product from Engage, designed with advanced technologies to enhance performance and durability.
Best For:
- Advanced players
- Aggressive playstyle
- Enhanced ball control
- Spin-oriented gameplay
- Noise reduction
Quick Specs:
- Weight: 8.2 – 8.5 oz
- Paddle Length: 16.5 inches
- Paddle Width: 7.5 inches
- Grip Length: 5.75 inches
- Core: Polypropylene Honeycomb
The Engage Pursuit MX Ultra 6.0 Pickleball Paddle is a game-changer in the pickleball world. It’s packed with R210 Carbon Fiber and Vortex Barrier Edge Technology, making it one of the most durable and high-performance paddles available. The paddle’s proprietary chemically bonded Carbon Fiber technology ensures maximum texture and friction between the ball and surface for unmatched spin. The Uniform Guard Technology bonds the edge guard to the paddle, creating a massive sweet spot and increasing control at contact.
Compared to other paddles, the Pursuit MX Ultra 6.0 stands out for its unique blend of control, power, and spin. The paddle’s elongated shape and thick core provide a stable touch feel from the baseline to the kitchen line, making it a preferred choice for advanced players. The paddle’s Counter Balance Technology lowers the balance point of the paddle, improving hand speed, reducing arm fatigue, and increasing the strength of the paddle for aggressive players.
The Pursuit MX Ultra 6.0 is also optimized to pass the most stringent community noise requirements, making it a great choice for players in noise-sensitive areas. When compared to other models like the MX 6.0, the Pursuit MX Ultra 6.0 offers a more cushioned and bouncy feel when hitting the ball, providing a refreshing playing experience.
Overall, the Engage Pursuit MX Ultra 6.0 Pickleball Paddle is a top-tier paddle that offers a unique blend of control, power, and spin, making it a standout choice for advanced and aggressive players.
CRBN 3X Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
The CRBN 3X Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is a high-performance paddle that offers a perfect blend of power, control, and spin. It’s designed with a carbon fiber face and a polymer core, which not only enhances its durability but also contributes to its whisper-quiet performance. This paddle is particularly known for its noise-dampening capabilities, making it an excellent choice for players who prefer a silent, low-noise core gameplay.
Best For:
- Power and control balance
- Spin-oriented gameplay
- Advanced players
- Noise reduction
- Aggressive playstyle
Quick Specs:
- Weight: 7.8 – 8.1 oz
- Total Length: 16.5 inches
- Width: 7.5 inches
- Core Thickness: 14mm/16mm
- Handle Length: 5.25 inches
The CRBN 3X Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is a well-rounded paddle that offers a unique blend of power and control. It’s designed with a carbon fiber face that provides a soft and forgiving feel while delivering ultimate spin and control. The polymer core is known for being the softest and quietest on the market, making this paddle a top choice for players seeking noise reduction.
Compared to other paddles like the Selkirk 003 and the Engage Pursuit MX Ultra 6.0, the CRBN 3X stands out for its lighter swing weight and its ability to offer more offensive options. It also features a redesigned internal composition for an expanded sweet spot, which helps eliminate vibration and improve shot consistency and control.
The CRBN 3X is also praised for its noise-dampening capabilities. It’s listed among the best quiet pickleball paddles of 2023, making it an excellent choice for players who prefer a silent, low-noise core gameplay. This feature, combined with its advanced design and construction, makes the CRBN 3X a top-tier paddle that can enhance your pickleball game.
Pickleball Paddles You Should Avoid If You Prefer Silent Gameplay
- Patriot Sniper Pickleball Paddle: Despite being marketed as a quiet paddle, the Sniper has received mixed reviews regarding its noise reduction capabilities. Some users have reported that it doesn’t live up to its claims of being whisper-quiet, which can be a letdown for players seeking a truly silent paddle.
- ianoni Pickleball Paddle: While the ianoni paddle is designed with a polymer core known for its quietness, it has received negative reviews for its durability. Some users have reported that the paddle breaks or chips easily, which can affect its performance and noise level over time.
- Aluminum Core Paddles: While slightly quieter than some other types, aluminum core paddles are generally not as quiet as polymer core paddles. If you’re seeking the quietest possible gameplay, it’s best to avoid paddles with an aluminum core.
- Graphite Face Paddles: Paddles with a graphite face are generally louder than those with a composite face. If noise reduction is a priority for you, it’s best to avoid paddles with a graphite face.
- Nomex Core Paddles: Paddles with a Nomex core are generally louder than those with a polymer or aluminum core. If you’re seeking the quietest possible gameplay, it’s best to avoid paddles with a Nomex core.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any regulations on the noise levels of pickleball paddles?
Currently, there are no specific regulations on the noise levels of pickleball paddles. The USA Pickleball Association approves paddles based on factors like size, deflection, and surface roughness, but noise levels are not taken into account.
2. Can the type of ball used in pickleball affect the noise level?
Yes, the type of ball used can significantly affect the noise level. Outdoor balls, which are typically harder and have smaller holes, usually create more noise when struck compared to softer, indoor balls.
3. How does the material of a pickleball paddle affect its noise level?
The material of a pickleball paddle can greatly influence its noise level. Harder materials tend to produce louder sounds, but they also provide better power and control. Softer materials, on the other hand, can reduce noise but may compromise on performance.
4. Are there any other ways to reduce noise in pickleball apart from using quieter paddles?
Yes, apart from using quieter paddles, players can also opt for softer balls, especially for indoor play. Additionally, installing noise barriers around the court or playing at a reasonable distance from residential areas can help reduce noise disturbance.
5. Does using a quieter pickleball paddle affect my gameplay?
Using a quieter pickleball paddle may affect your gameplay. While these paddles are designed to reduce noise, they often use softer materials that may compromise on power and control. Therefore, players using quieter paddles may find themselves at a disadvantage in terms of gameplay.