Pickleball Paddle Thickness: 13 mm vs 16 mm vs 20 mm

When players talk about finding the perfect pickleball paddle, they often focus on weight, grip size, or surface texture. Yet one factor that dramatically influences performance is often overlooked: paddle thickness. Whether you choose a 13 mm, 16 mm, or 20 mm paddle can change the feel of every shot, from a quick drive to a soft kitchen dink.

Why Thickness Matters

Thickness changes how the paddle interacts with the ball. A thinner paddle rebounds the ball more quickly, producing extra pop and speed. A thicker paddle, by contrast, cushions the impact, expanding the sweet spot and giving players more stability. This trade-off—power versus control—defines the choice for most players.

As Pickleball Studio notes, thicker paddles generally improve control, while thinner ones are tuned for power. But that simple rule has nuance depending on how you play.

13 mm Paddles – Fast and Aggressive

Thinner paddles, usually around 13 mm, deliver explosive speed. The compact core allows energy to transfer directly into the ball, making drives and smashes noticeably stronger. Singles players who rely on quick points and offensive momentum often prefer this setup. The lighter profile also feels quick in the hand, perfect for rapid wrist flicks at the net.

However, the downside is precision. The sweet spot is smaller, meaning off-center hits can lose accuracy. Vibration also travels more easily into the arm, which may not suit players prone to elbow or wrist discomfort. Still, for athletes who thrive on speed, a 13 mm paddle can be an exciting weapon. As Luxe Pickleball explains, thinner cores give a “powerful punch” that aggressive players love.

16 mm Paddles – The Balanced Choice

The 16 mm paddle has become the standard for a reason: it balances power and control. For most players, especially in doubles, this thickness offers the best of both worlds. There’s enough pop to finish points but also enough forgiveness to handle defensive blocks and resets. The larger sweet spot makes rallies feel more consistent, which builds confidence during long exchanges.

Intermediate and advanced players often settle here because it adapts to different strategies—offensive or defensive. Arronax calls the 16 mm “the most versatile choice,” which matches what many recreational and competitive players experience on court.

20 mm Paddles – Control and Comfort

At 20 mm, paddles prioritize feel and stability above raw force. These thicker designs reduce vibration, making them gentler on the joints. The sweet spot is also more forgiving, so even off-center shots travel with reliable accuracy. Defensive specialists and players who focus on dinks, drops, and resets appreciate the extra margin of error.

The trade-off is reduced pop. Smashes may feel less explosive compared to thinner paddles. Yet for players who value consistency, comfort, and control, the 20 mm paddle is an outstanding option. As Boomer Pickleball points out, thicker paddles absorb shock more effectively and create a larger sweet spot, leading to steadier play.

Comparison Table

Thickness	Strengths	Trade-offs	Best For
13 mm	High power, explosive shots, fast handling	Small sweet spot, more vibration	Singles, aggressive players
16 mm	Balanced power and control, consistent rallies	Not extreme in either category	Doubles, versatile all-round players
20 mm	Maximum control, comfort, joint-friendly	Less pop, heavier feel	Defensive play, seniors, control-focused players

How to Choose

Your choice should reflect how you like to win points:

If you’re an attacker who thrives on quick winners, pick a 13 mm.
If you want one paddle that can handle any situation, choose 16 mm.
If you’re a control player or need joint-friendly comfort, go with 20 mm.

Paddletek emphasizes that thicker cores are more stable at the edges, which helps maintain accuracy even under pressure—an important factor for competitive doubles.

FAQ

Is a 20 mm paddle better than a 16 mm?

Not better—just different. A 20 mm paddle maximizes control and comfort, while a 16 mm offers the best blend of both power and stability.

Do thin paddles break faster?

No, durability depends more on material and build quality. Thin paddles just feel “poppier” and pass on more vibration to the arm.

What thickness do most pros use?

Many professionals favor 16 mm paddles for their versatility. They can switch between power shots and controlled soft play without changing equipment.