If you’ve been playing pickleball for a while, chances are you’ve already outgrown your beginner paddle. At this stage, you’re hitting cleaner shots, learning to add spin, and getting more confident at the net. That’s when an intermediate pickleball paddle can make a big difference.

As an intermediate player, you’re learning how to control the ball better, add spin, and hit with more power when you need it. The right paddle can make all of that easier. The wrong one can make the game feel harder than it should be.

This guide is here to help you sort it out. We’ll look at the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players, what features matter most, and which ones are worth trying if you want to upgrade your game.

 

What is the Best Paddle for an Intermediate Pickleball Player?

Once you reach intermediate pickleball, the game starts to feel different. Instead of just returning the ball, you’re working on placing shots, adding spin, and mixing power with control. That’s why the paddle you used as a beginner may no longer feel like the right fit.

The best pickleball paddles for intermediate players give you a balance: enough power to finish points but still plenty of control to keep rallies alive. Things like paddle weight, core thickness, and grip size all matter, but what really counts is finding the right paddle for your skill level.

As explained in this guide on how to choose a pickleball paddle, your needs shift once you move from beginner to intermediate.

 

8 Best Intermediate Pickleball Paddles

Once you reach the intermediate pickleball stage, the paddle you choose can change how you play. Below, you’ll find our picks for the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players. Each one is chosen for its balance of features, performance, and play style.

1. Six Zero Black Diamond Power 14mm - $180 USD

• Carbon fiber surface with textured finish for spin and accuracy
• Honeycomb polymer core for balance of power and forgiveness
• 5.5-inch handle length for two-handed backhands and comfort

Six Zero Black Diamond Power paddle gives intermediate players the tools to play a strong power game without losing control. The expanded paddle shape increases the sweet spot, so even off-center shots stay on target. It’s built to help you swing with confidence and consistency during long rallies, much like the spin-focused models mentioned in the Six Zero Ruby paddle review.

2. Pickleball Apes Pulse X 16mm - $199.99 USD

• 16.5mm thicker core with 2x foam walls for control and stability
• Midweight design (8.2–8.4oz) for balanced power and control
• Narrow-cell honeycomb poly core that absorbs vibration

The Apes Pulse X is a control paddle at heart, giving players more steadiness during quick exchanges. The thicker build keeps shots consistent and reduces mishits, while still offering enough punch to finish points. This design echoes what’s highlighted in the pickleball paddle technology guide, showing how core design affects play.

3. Pickleball Apes Pulse S 16mm - $199.99 USD

• Hybrid paddle shape for reach and maneuverability
• Carbon fiber ring grid core with foam walls for durability
• Generous sweet spot with stability for controlled play

The Apes Pulse S blends spin and power with control, making it a smart upgrade for an intermediate paddle. Its hybrid design gives players flexibility across the court, whether at the net or baseline. The wider sweet spot means fewer mistakes, giving more confidence to those learning to refine their finesse game. You’ll see this type of versatility covered in the best pickleball paddles for different play styles.

4. Pickleball Apes Pulse V 16mm - $199.99 USD

• Wide paddle face for a generous sweet spot
• 16.5mm thicker core for added stability and forgiveness
• Midweight build (8.0–8.4oz) for balance between control and power

The Apes Pulse V is built for players who want forgiveness without giving up performance. Its wider paddle shape creates a larger hitting area, which helps reduce mistakes when striking off-center. With a thicker core and steady paddle weight, it’s one of the recommended paddles for intermediates who want to prioritize control. Pairing it with a quality paddle overgrip can add even more comfort and consistency during long matches.

5. Pickleball Apes Pulse E 16mm - $199.99 USD

• Elongated shape with extra reach at the net and baseline
• 6.25-inch handle length for two-handed backhands
• Honeycomb poly core with aramid fiber surface for spin and control

The Apes Pulse E is designed for the intermediate player who wants more reach and a strong two-handed backhand option. Its elongated shape makes it easier to attack from the baseline, while the extended handle length gives stability on defensive shots. With its spin-friendly surface and dependable core thickness, it works well for players who like to pressure opponents with both finesse and power.

6. Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX 12.7 - $249.99 USD

• 12.7mm core thickness for maximum power and speed
• XL handle length (5 ¾ inches) for quick maneuverability
• Carbon fiber surface for spin and precision

Made with input from pro player Christian Alshon, the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX 12.7 is all about explosive play. Its thinner core gives more power and pop off the face, making it a strong choice for players who like to dominate points. The carbon fiber surface also delivers reliable spin, helping with accuracy on drives and serves. This paddle is highlighted in the Bantam TKO paddle review, where its power and control mix makes it stand out among advanced players as well as strong intermediates.

7. Thrive Threat 16 - $179.99 USD

• 16mm thicker core for improved stability and control
• Elongated thermoformed paddle shape with customizable swing weight
• Toray T700 carbon fiber surface with peel-ply texture for unmatched spin

The Thrive Threat 16 blends power, control, and spin in one well-balanced design. Unlike some elongated intermediate pickleball paddles that feel too heavy, this one is tuned for smoother maneuverability and less fatigue. Its core thickness at 16mm creates a stable, forgiving feel while still giving you the ability to hit with force when needed. With customizable swing weights, players can dial in their preferred balance, making it one of the most flexible recommended paddles for an intermediate player moving toward a faster, more confident game.

8. Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX 14.3 - $249.99 USD

• 14.3mm thicker core for stability and forgiveness
• PT-700 raw carbon fiber surface that balances spin and control
• XL handle length (5.75") designed for two-handed backhands

The Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX 14.3 is all about perfect balance between power and control. With a slightly thicker core, it softens contact and creates a more forgiving feel compared to thinner power paddles. Its carbon fiber surface delivers excellent spin potential while keeping shots steady. The longer handle suits players who rely on two-handed strokes, making it a solid fit for both intermediate pickleball players and even those moving toward advanced levels.

Among the recommended paddles in this list, it stands out for its versatility and durability. A reliable choice for players who want a paddle that grows with their game.

 

What Level is Intermediate Pickleball?

An intermediate pickleball player usually falls in the 3.0 to 4.0 range. At this stage, you’re doing more than just getting the ball over the net. You’ve started shaping your shots, adding spin, and thinking about ball placement. Mistakes still happen, but you’ve got the basics down and can rally with confidence.

The jump from beginner paddle play to intermediate is when your gear starts to matter. A paddle with the right paddle weight, grip size, and core thickness can make it easier to handle quick volleys, keep your control and power balanced, and reduce fatigue during long matches.

If you’re not sure where you land, your pickleball rating is a good place to start. An intermediate player rating usually falls between 3.0 and 4.0, and learning how pickleball ratings are measured can help you decide when it’s time to upgrade your paddle.

  

Finding the Perfect Paddle for Intermediate Players in California

The best pickleball paddles for intermediate players strike a balance of power and control. Look for a carbon fiber surface, a thicker core for stability, and the right grip size so you stay comfortable through long matches.

Every intermediate player is different. Some want more spin and finesse, others chase maximum power. The key is finding the right paddle that matches your style and helps you play with confidence.

Get2Eleven is one of the trusted sources for pickleball paddles in California. We carry leading paddle brands to suit every playing style. You can also visit our store at 875 Santa Fe Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024 to check out paddles in person, along with quality pickleball balls and pickleball shoes.

 

 

Intermediate Pickleball Paddles FAQs

Which pickleball paddle is right for me?

The right paddle depends on what you value most: more power, better control, or a mix of both. Factors like paddle weight, core thickness, and paddle shape all affect how the paddle feels on the court. At Get2Eleven, we carry trusted options from Selkirk paddles, JOOLA paddles, and Gearbox paddles, along with many others. You can take our quick pickleball paddle quiz to discover which fit is best for your game.

What are the different levels of pickleball paddles?

Paddles are usually grouped into beginner, intermediate, and advanced. A beginner paddle prioritizes forgiveness, while intermediate pickleball paddles blend spin, control, and power. Details on materials and core thickness are covered in this pickleball paddle buying guide.

Is a 14mm or 16mm paddle better?

A 14mm paddle offers more pop and suits a power game, while a 16mm paddle gives a softer feel and helps players who prioritize control. Both are common choices for intermediate players depending on preference. The updated USA Pickleball rules recognize both sizes as standard. If you want a deeper breakdown, check out our full 14mm vs 16mm pickleball paddle comparison.

How do you know your pickleball level?

Most players fall into beginner, intermediate, or advanced ranges based on consistency and shot variety. An intermediate player (3.0–4.0 rating) can rally, place shots, and win points against beginners.