The sports of pickleball and ping pong (table tennis) are similar in a few ways. This includes the fact that players of both sports require the use of a paddle to play.
Although there are other similarities, there are differences as well. This article will discuss the differences between a pickleball paddle and a ping pong paddle along with other information.
Key takeaways
- Pickleball paddles and ping pong paddle are different in size and weight.
- Both paddles have different designs.
- There is a difference in price between both paddles.
- The materials used in the design are different for each paddle.
- Pickleball paddles and ping pong paddles are not interchangeable.
Pickleball paddles vs ping pong paddles
Both pickleball paddles and ping pong paddles are crucial pieces of equipment needed to play the game.
A pickleball paddle is used to hit a lightweight, perforated plastic ball and a ping pong paddle is used to hit a small plastic ball that is not perforated.
The biggest differences between the paddles are the overall design, size, and weight.
Design
Pickleball and ping pong paddles come in a wide variety of designs and colors.
There are many options to choose from and players can choose paddles with designs that reflect their personal style or preferences.
If you look at both paddles side by side, it’s easy to see the difference in design.
Pickleball paddles are longer and wider than ping pong paddles. Both paddles are somewhat similar in width but the visual difference is apparent.
A pickleball paddle has a larger head and a thicker grip handle compared to a ping pong paddle. The pickleball paddle has a wider design and is more durable than a ping pong paddle.
Size and shape – pickleball paddle
Most pickleball paddles are between 15 to 17 inches in length. The width of a pickleball paddle is between 7 to 8.25 inches.
According to USA pickleball.org, the combined length and width cannot exceed 24 inches.
The handle of a pickleball is between 4 to 5.5 inches long and 1.25 inches wide.
Blade pickleball paddles are the most common and have a long and thin shape. Teardrop paddles have a more rounded shape compared to blade paddles.
All pickleball paddles have rounded corners on the blade.
Standard pickleball paddles provide a balance of various paddle types for the average player. They have a traditional look which is shorter and wider than the blade paddle but not as wide as the teardrop paddle.
Size and shape – ping pong paddle
The average ping pong paddle ranges between 9.45 to 10.25 inches long. The average paddle head is 6.7 inches long and 5.9 inches wide.
The handle of a ping pong paddle is between 3.75 to 3.93 inches long and 1 to 1.3 inches wide.
The shape of a ping pong paddle is rectangular with rounded corners on the blade.
Weight
The average pickleball paddle ranges in weight between 7 to 9.5 ounces or 198.5 to 269.3 grams.
Players have the option of choosing a lighter or heavier paddle based on your style of play and experience level.
An midweight range of 7.3 to 8.3 ounces is suitable for beginners and will provide a balance of paddle speed, control, and power.
The average weight of a ping pong paddle is 90 grams without the rubber covering. The rubber paddle covers weigh around 45 grams and the paddle is covered on both sides.
The combined weight of the ping pong paddle and rubber coverings is around 180 grams. This tends to be the ideal weight for most players.
There are lighter and heavier ping pong paddles available which can range in weight from 75 to 200 grams.
Price
There is a difference is price between pickleball paddles and ping pong paddles. There is also a significant price range for each paddle.
Expect to pay around $65 for an average quality pickleball paddle but this price can vary between $20 to $250.
Expect to pay around $50 for an average quality ping pong paddle but this price can vary between $15 to $270.
| Pickleball paddle | Ping pong paddle | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 15-17″ | 9.45-10.25″ |
| Width | 7-8.25″ | 5.9″ |
| Weight | 198.5 to 269.3 grams | 75 to 200 grams |
| Price | $20-$250 | $15-$275 |
| Materials | graphite, carbon fibre, fiberglass, wood | laminated wood |
What are Pickleball paddles and Ping Pong paddles made of?
The materials used to design a pickleball paddle consist of graphite, carbon fibre, fiberglass, and wood. These are durable materials that can withstand the elements and stresses of the game.
Some pickleball paddles use a hybrid design which is a blend of the materials used in the design.
Ping pong paddles are normally made with laminated wood of various thickness with rubber sheets on both sides of the paddle.
Can you use a Pickleball paddle to play Ping Pong?
Although it’s technically possible to use a pickleball paddle to play ping pong, it’s not recommended.
Pickleball paddles and ping pong paddles are designed for their respective sports, and as you can see from the info above, they have distinct characteristics that make them better suited for their intended games.
Using a pickleball paddle for ping pong or vice versa, would not provide the best experience and would make each game more difficult to play.
For example, a ping pong paddle is designed with rubber coverings to allow the player to spin the ball during play. This would be very difficult to perform with a pickleball paddle.
