Padel vs Pickleball: What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Try?

If you’ve recently heard your friends talk about padel or pickleball, you’re not alone. These two fast-growing racket sports are gaining popularity across the world — but how are they different, and which one is right for you?

In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between padel and pickleball, compare their rules, equipment, playing styles, and help you decide which sport to play based on your preferences and fitness goals.

Author's Note: I’ve played both padel and pickleball for over three years and competed in amateur tournaments. This guide is based on first-hand experience, backed by sport federation resources and data from clubs across Europe and the US.

Padel vs Pickleball: Key Differences at a Glance

Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of the most important differences between padel and pickleball.

While the two sports may look similar at first glance, they offer distinct experiences on the court — from the type of ball to how points are scored.

Gameplay: How Padel and Pickleball Are Played

While both sports are played with paddles and a ball, the actual gameplay differs significantly in terms of pace, rules, and strategy.

Padel Rules and Play Style

• Played in doubles format by default
• Serve must bounce once and be underhand
• Walls are part of the game, like in squash
• Points follow tennis scoring (15-30-40-game)
• Strategy relies on positioning, angles, and anticipation

Example: A lob that hits the back glass and rebounds is still playable, which adds a unique dimension to point construction and favors longer rallies.

Pickleball Rules and Play Style

• Can be played as singles or doubles
• Serve must be underhand and diagonally placed, without bounce
• Volleys are not allowed in the “kitchen” (7-foot no-volley zone)
• Games are played to 11 points (win by 2)
• Faster, flatter exchanges are common at the net

Example: The “dink” shot — a soft hit over the net into the kitchen — is a core tactical element in pickleball, used to control tempo and set up aggressive plays.

Equipment: What You Need to Play Padel vs Pickleball

One of the first things you’ll notice when comparing padel and pickleball is the gear. From rackets to balls to footwear, your setup can shape your experience.

Padel Equipment

• Padel Racket: Solid, stringless paddle with a foam core and perforated surface. Heavier and thicker than pickleball paddles.
• Padel Ball: Pressurized, slightly smaller and lighter than a standard tennis ball. Requires bounce.
• Footwear: Court shoes with strong lateral support, designed for enclosed spaces and quick direction changes.

Tip from experience: Avoid using regular tennis balls — they bounce too high and don’t match the court’s dynamics.

Pickleball Equipment

• Pickleball Paddle: Lighter, smaller paddle made of composite or graphite, optimized for quick reflex shots.
• Pickleball Ball: Hollow plastic ball with holes. Different types for indoor and outdoor play.
• Footwear: Lightweight indoor or tennis-style shoes suitable for hard courts.

Beginner insight: Outdoor pickleballs are harder and have fewer holes (usually 40), while indoor balls are softer with more holes (typically 26).

Padel or Pickleball: Which Sport Is Right for You?

Choosing between padel and pickleball depends on what you enjoy in a sport: speed, tactics, social interaction, and even court availability. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.

If You Prefer...

• Faster rallies and strategic walls: Go with padel. It rewards patience, positioning, and tactical lobs.
• Quick reflexes and net play: Pickleball offers a more explosive style, with rapid-fire exchanges and dinking strategy.
• Teamwork and doubles focus: Padel is almost always played in doubles — ideal for social players or couples.
• Lower physical impact: Pickleball’s smaller court and lighter ball make it gentler on joints, great for all ages.
• Easy access in the USA: Pickleball is booming in North America. Padel courts are more common in Europe and Latin America.

Still unsure? Try both. Many clubs now offer beginner-friendly clinics for each sport — and both can be addictive once you get the hang of it.

Global Popularity: Padel and Pickleball on the Rise

Both padel and pickleball have experienced explosive growth in recent years, capturing the attention of players, investors, and sports organizations globally.

Padel: A European Powerhouse Going Global

• Player Base: Over 30 million players across 130 countries as of 2024, with 59% based in Europe. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
• Court Expansion: Europe saw a 240% increase in padel courts over the past three years. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• Market Growth: The global padel market is projected to grow from USD 204 million in 2024 to USD 447 million by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 10.3%. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Demographics: Gen Z and younger Millennials are increasingly taking up the sport, with club owners noting a surge in younger players seeking fitness and social engagement. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Pickleball: America's Fastest-Growing Sport

• Player Base: Nearly 20 million active players in the U.S. as of 2024, marking a 311% increase over three years. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Demographics: The sport appeals to all age groups, with the fastest-growing segment being the 18–34 age group. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Infrastructure: Over 68,000 courts nationwide, with 130 new locations added monthly. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• International Expansion: The 2024 Pickleball World Cup in Lima featured 32 countries, highlighting the sport's growing global reach. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Both sports are not only expanding their player bases but also attracting significant investments in infrastructure and professional circuits, indicating a promising future on the global sports stage.

Final Verdict: Which Racket Sport Should You Choose?

Both padel and pickleball offer unique experiences, catering to different preferences and fitness levels. Your choice depends on what you're seeking in a racket sport.

Choose Padel if you:

• Enjoy strategic gameplay with the use of walls, akin to squash.
• Prefer a more intense cardiovascular workout.
• Are interested in a sport with a growing global presence, especially in Europe and Latin America.
• Seek a doubles-focused game that emphasizes teamwork and coordination.

Choose Pickleball if you:

• Desire a sport that's easy to learn and accessible to all age groups.
• Prefer a game with a lighter physical demand, suitable for casual play.
• Are looking for a rapidly growing community, particularly in the United States.
• Appreciate quick reflexes and fast-paced net play.

Ultimately, both sports offer enjoyable and engaging experiences. Trying both can provide a comprehensive understanding of which aligns best with your interests and physical capabilities.