14mm vs 16mm Pickleball Paddles: How to Choose

A 14mm paddle is worth considering if you like a lively response on quick volleys. A 16mm paddle is a useful starting point if you want to focus on dinks, drops, and resets. Within a similar honeycomb-core design, that is a practical way to begin the comparison.

The next step is choosing the actual paddle. Its core, weight distribution, shape, and grip all affect how it fits your game. A 16mm paddle can also belong to a power collection, so look beyond thickness before deciding.

What do 14mm and 16mm mean?

These numbers describe the paddle’s nominal thickness in millimeters, often listed as core thickness. A 16mm model is 2mm thicker than a 14mm model. Length, width, and grip size are separate specifications.

A honeycomb core and a foam core can both have a 16mm label. To understand the paddle you are buying, read thickness alongside its materials and construction. When comparing two versions of the same model, check their listed weights and other specifications as well.

The main differences to look for

Use this comparison as a starting point when the paddles have similar construction.

Pickle Pro Labs’ paddle performance report describes how thickness, stiffness, and inertia relate to laboratory rebound results in traditional honeycomb paddles. It also shows why the complete construction matters, especially when comparing different core designs.

For your game, connect those details to a specific shot. If a block keeps sitting up, prioritize the response on blocks and resets. If you want more from a counter, compare that short volley separately from a full drive.

Pop and power show up on different shots

“Pop” usually describes the response when you redirect an incoming ball with a short movement. You notice it on counters and punch volleys. “Power” often describes the pace you produce with a fuller swing, such as a serve or forehand drive.

A paddle you enjoy on drives may need a different touch during a soft block. Include both in your comparison so you can judge how the response suits your whole game.

If attacking shots are your priority, our guide to power pickleball paddles explains that choice in more detail. Thickness is one specification to consider alongside the paddle’s design.

Compare handling as well as rebound

The weight on a scale tells you the paddle’s total mass. Swingweight describes its resistance to being swung. Two paddles with the same total weight can feel different because their mass sits in different places.

Crawford Lindsey’s 2023 paddle materials and performance study at Tennis Warehouse University examines the role of mass distribution in rebound performance. For a practical comparison, check the listed weight and pay attention to how comfortably you move the paddle between shots.

Grip fit deserves equal attention. Check circumference and handle length against a paddle you already find comfortable. A smaller circumference and a longer handle describe different aspects of fit; compare both.

Which thickness fits the shots you want to improve?

When soft shots are your priority

Include a 16mm model in your shortlist, particularly when comparing similar honeycomb paddles. During a demo, start with dinks and drops, then ask your partner to send firmer balls for blocks and resets.

Favor the response that helps you keep the ball low with a comfortable movement. Spend enough time on those shots to judge whether the feel suits you.

When you want livelier counters

Include a 14mm version in the comparison. Check the rebound on a compact punch volley, then see how readily you recover for the next ball.

Also try soft blocks. You want the extra response to work with your touch throughout the rally.

When you are buying your first paddle

Begin with manageable weight and a grip that feels secure. A 16mm model is a reasonable starting point if your priority is keeping routine shots in play and developing your soft game.

Your choice should also suit your hand and the strokes you are learning. Use the complete specifications to narrow your options, then compare feel where a demo is available.

How to make a useful comparison

Borrow a paddle or use an authorized demo program if you can. Bring your current paddle as a reference, use the same ball, and aim at the same targets. Check the demo or store policy before playing.

Work through soft shots first, followed by blocks against incoming pace. Then compare serves and drives with your normal swing. Finish with consecutive forehand and backhand volleys to judge handling and recovery.

For a simple practice comparison, try ten balls in each group and note how many reach your target. Repeat with the other paddle and change the order. A close result is worth checking again in another session.

If you cannot demo both, look for information about the exact model and thickness you are considering. Check whether a reviewer used a stock paddle or added weight, and whether the description separates measured results from personal preferences.

A few common questions about thickness

Can adding weight make a 14mm paddle feel like a 16mm?

Adding weight changes total mass and its distribution. Depending on placement, it can change resistance to swinging or twisting, which may give you a response you prefer.

The paddle’s core construction stays the same. Evaluate its stock setup first, then change one part at a time if you try permitted adjustments.

Does a 16mm paddle give you more spin?

Thickness alone does not establish a spin advantage. Tennis Warehouse University’s pickleball spin research examines how friction and incoming angle, speed, and spin affect contact.

Compare the complete paddle and the strokes you use when assessing spin. The thickness label gives you only one part of its specification.

Are both thicknesses allowed in competition?

Section 2.E.3 of the USA Pickleball Equipment Standards Manual places no restriction on paddle thickness. For an event requiring USA Pickleball-approved equipment, check the exact model in the official Approved Paddle List and confirm the event’s requirements.

Choosing a BECAVO 16mm paddle: A01 or P01?

Once you have a 16mm paddle on your shortlist, compare the construction and fit that suit your preferences. A01 and P01 both have a T700 carbon fiber face, thermoformed unibody construction, a 140mm handle, and a listed weight range of 220–240g. Our 16mm pickleball paddle comparison puts their specifications side by side.

A01: a honeycomb-core option with a fuller grip

The A01 combines a 16mm PP honeycomb core with a 110mm grip circumference. It measures 415 × 190mm and comes with Orange accents.

Start with the A01 if you prefer a honeycomb-core construction and want the fuller grip of these two models. Compare its 110mm circumference with your current paddle before choosing.

Shop the BECAVO A01 16mm paddle to see its specifications and current availability.

P01: a foam-core option with a slimmer grip

The P01 pairs a 16mm MPP foam core with a 105mm grip circumference. It measures 420 × 190mm, making it 5mm longer than A01, and is available in Black or Pink Purple.

Start with the P01 if you want to compare a foam-core construction or prefer the slimmer grip of these two models. It belongs to BECAVO’s Power collection and gives you a 16mm option to consider within that range.

Shop the BECAVO P01 16mm paddle to choose a color and check current availability.

For a side-by-side view before you buy, use the BECAVO Paddle Guide. Compare the core, grip measurements, and overall dimensions, then open the model that fits your shortlist.