Ready to supercharge your pickleball skills? Investing in a high-quality pickleball machine could be the game-changer you need to dominate the court.
I've rigorously tested the best machines to help you find your ideal training partner. These machines deliver balls with precision, allowing you to master every shot. They never tire, making them perfect for players looking to improve quickly.
With so many options, choosing the right machine can be overwhelming. That's why I've narrowed it down to the top 5 machines worth your investment. I've evaluated each based on ball capacity, speed, oscillation, spin, portability, battery life, drill customizability, and overall value.
Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, there's a machine to fit your needs and budget. These machines are essential for leveling up your game, especially if you don't have a consistent practice partner.
Let's dive into my top 5 picks for the best pickleball machines of 2024. Discover the perfect partner to help you elevate your drills, accelerate your skills, and dominate the court!
Why trust my picks? I put in the time to thoroughly test every product I recommend. I only include the top performers in my guides, so you can trust you're getting the very best. I've been at it for years and constantly test new paddles.
Now, let's look at the best pickleball machines I selected for 2024.
Before buying a pickleball practice machine, it's important to ensure it fits your needs. That's why I created a 1-minute quiz that will help you find the best machine for your needs and budget.
Give it a try and see which machine is a match for you:
Take my free quick quiz to see which pickleball machine matches your needs the best.
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Based on your answers, I recommend:
The ultimate training weapon to dominate the courts. See Best Price
Ball Capacity
110
Weight
34 lbs (battery), 27 lbs (AC)
Power Source
Battery or AC
Remote
Yes (extra cost)
Oscillation
2-line & random
Spin Modes
Top & under
Max Speed
65 MPH
Battery Life
3-4 hrs
Dimensions
20" H x 22" L x 14" W
Warranty
3 years (1 year battery)
My Review
I've spent countless hours on the court with the Pickleball Tutor Plus, and let me tell you, this machine is an absolute game-changer. It's like having a tireless drilling partner who never complains and always pushes you to be your best.
The Pickleball Tutor Plus is perfect for serious players looking to take their skills to the next level. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an ambitious intermediate, this machine will help you drill every shot imaginable until you've mastered them all.
The Pickleball Tutor Plus is loaded with features that will make your practice sessions insanely effective. You can adjust the speed up to a blistering 65 mph, add top or back spin, and even tweak the elevation to simulate any game situation.
The random oscillation keeps you on your toes, while the optional 2-line oscillation is perfect for honing your footwork and reaction time. And with a 110 ball capacity, you'll spend more time drilling and less time chasing down balls.
This machine is built like a tank. The sturdy construction and high-quality materials mean it can withstand even the most intense practice sessions. And while it's not the lightest at 34 lbs, the oversized wheels make it a breeze to transport around the court.
Performance I've put the Tutor Plus through its paces, and it consistently delivers top-notch performance. The ball feed is smooth and accurate, and the adjustable settings let you customize your drills to target specific weaknesses in your game.
Yes, the Pickleball Tutor Plus is an investment, but it's one that will pay off big time in terms of your skills and enjoyment on the court. The machine itself is built to last for years, and the 3-year warranty gives you peace of mind.
While the optional extras like the remote and 2-line oscillation do add to the cost, they're worth it for the added convenience and versatility they provide.
My Verdict: Pickleball Tutor Plus
The Pickleball Tutor Plus is hands-down the best pickleball machine I've ever used. It's a durable, feature-packed beast that will help you drill your way to pickleball domination. If you're serious about taking your game to the next level, this is the ultimate training partner. It's not the cheapest option out there, but trust me, it's worth every penny.
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The perfect practice machine for beginners who want things simple. See Best Price
Ball Capacity
135
Weight
35 lbs
Power Source
Battery only
Remote
Yes (included)
Oscillation
Random
Spin Modes
Top & under
Max Speed
60 MPH
Battery Life
2-4 hrs
Dimensions
26" H x 16" L x 22" W
Warranty
2 years (6 months battery)
My Review
If you're just starting your pickleball journey, the Lobster Pickle Ball Machine is the perfect companion to help you build a solid foundation of skills. With its user-friendly design and versatile features, this machine is ideal for beginners looking to fall in love with the game.
The Lobster Pickle Ball Machine is designed with new players in mind. It offers all the essential features you need to practice a wide range of shots and develop consistent technique, without overwhelming you with complicated settings or advanced options.
One of the standout features of the Lobster Pickle Ball Machine is its large ball capacity. With room for 135 balls, you'll be able to practice for longer periods without constant interruptions to reload. This means more time honing your skills and less time chasing down balls.
The machine offers adjustable ball speed up to 60 mph, allowing you to gradually increase the challenge as you improve. It also features topspin and backspin options, so you can practice handling different types of shots from your opponents.
The Lobster Pickle Ball Machine is designed with portability and ease of use in mind. Weighing in at just 35 lbs, it's one of the lighter machines on the market, making it easy to transport from your car to the court. When you're done practicing, the machine's compact folding design allows for easy storage, even in tight spaces like a closet or the trunk of your car.
I've seen firsthand how the Lobster Pickle Ball Machine can help beginners quickly improve their skills. The machine's random oscillation feature simulates the unpredictability of a real game, helping you develop your reaction time and court coverage.
The machine's adjustable ball feed speed allows you to practice at a pace that's comfortable for you, while still challenging you to improve. And with a battery life of 2-4 hours, you'll have plenty of time to work on your game before needing to recharge.
At just over $1,000, the Lobster Pickle Ball Machine is a great value for beginners looking for a reliable, high-quality pickleball machine. It offers all the essential features you need to start mastering the game, without the hefty price tag of some more advanced models.
Plus, with a 3-year warranty, you can feel confident in your investment and know that you'll be able to enjoy this machine for years to come.
My Verdict: Lobster Pickle Ball Machine
The Lobster Pickle Ball Machine is the perfect choice for beginners who are serious about improving their game. With its user-friendly design, large ball capacity, and versatile features, this machine will help you build a strong foundation of skills and fall in love with pickleball. It's an investment that will pay off in the form of more enjoyable, successful time on the court.
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Compact and lightweight. Practice anywhere, anytime. See Best Price
Ball Capacity
60
Weight
24 lbs
Power Source
Battery only
Remote
No
Oscillation
Random
Spin Modes
None
Max Speed
50 MPH
Battery Life
3-4 hours
Dimensions
15" H x 12" L x 13" W
Warranty
3 years (1 year battery)
My Review
If you're always on the go and looking for a pickleball machine that can keep up with your lifestyle, the Pickleball Tutor Mini is the perfect choice. This compact, portable powerhouse is designed to make practice sessions possible anytime, anywhere.
The Pickleball Tutor Mini is ideal for players who value portability and convenience above all else. Whether you're a beginner who wants to practice in your driveway or a seasoned player who wants to bring a machine on vacation, this little gem has you covered.
Don't let the Pickleball Tutor Mini's small size fool you – this machine packs a serious punch. With a top speed of 50 mph and a ball capacity of 60, you'll be able to practice a wide range of shots and simulate realistic game situations.
The machine's random oscillation feature adds an element of unpredictability to your practice sessions, helping you develop your reaction time and footwork. And with manual elevation adjustment, you can easily switch between practicing groundstrokes, volleys, and lobs.
The Pickleball Tutor Mini is a marvel of compact design. Weighing in at just 24 lbs and measuring 15" H x 12" L x 13" W, this machine is incredibly easy to transport and store. It's the perfect size to toss in your trunk for a day at the courts or to tuck away in a closet when not in use.
Despite its small size, the Pickleball Tutor Mini is built to last. It feels sturdy and well-constructed, with high-quality materials that can withstand regular use and transportation.
I've taken the Pickleball Tutor Mini with me to courts all over town, and I've been consistently impressed with its performance. The machine's ball feed is smooth and accurate, allowing you to focus on your form and footwork without any frustrating interruptions.
The random oscillation feature is a great way to mix up your practice sessions and keep things challenging, while the adjustable ball speed allows you to gradually increase the intensity as you improve.
At just around $800-$900, the Pickleball Tutor Mini is an incredible value for a high-quality, portable pickleball machine. It offers many of the same features and capabilities as larger, more expensive machines, but in a compact, travel-friendly package.
Plus, with a 3-year warranty on the machine and a 1-year warranty on the battery, you can trust that your investment is protected. The Pickleball Tutor Mini is a machine that will help you improve your game for years to come, no matter where your pickleball journey takes you.
My Verdict: Pickleball Tutor Mini
If you're looking for a pickleball machine that combines portability, performance, and value, the Pickleball Tutor Mini is the clear winner. This compact powerhouse is the perfect companion for players who want to practice anytime, anywhere. With its impressive features, durable construction, and affordable price point, the Pickleball Tutor Mini is a must-have for any serious pickleball player on the go.
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The ultimate training weapon to dominate the courts. See Best Price
Ball Capacity
110
Weight
34 lbs (battery), 27 lbs (AC)
Power Source
Battery or AC
Remote
Yes (extra cost)
Oscillation
2-line & random
Spin Modes
Top & under
Max Speed
65 MPH
Battery Life
3-4 hrs
Dimensions
20" H x 22" L x 14" W
Warranty
3 years (1 year battery)
My Review
If you're looking for a pickleball machine that can do it all, look no further than the Pickleball Tutor Plus Ultra. This feature-packed powerhouse takes everything that's great about the Tutor Plus and cranks it up a notch, making it the ultimate training partner for players who want to master every shot in the game.
The Pickleball Tutor Plus Ultra is perfect for players of all skill levels who want a machine that can grow with them as they improve. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, this machine has the features and versatility to help you take your game to the next level.
One of the standout features of the Pickleball Tutor Plus Ultra is the addition of 6 preset drills, which allow you to focus on specific shots like dinks, lobs, and third shot drops with the touch of a button. But that's just the beginning – you can also create your own custom drills to target your unique weaknesses and goals.
With a top speed of 65 mph and the ability to shoot balls as frequently as every second, the Tutor Plus Ultra can challenge even the most advanced players. And with random oscillation, 2-line oscillation, and electronic elevation, you'll be able to practice a wide range of shots from every angle.
The Pickleball Tutor Plus Ultra boasts a sleek, modern design with a digital display that makes it easy to see your settings at a glance. It's built with the same high-quality materials as the Tutor Plus, so you know it's built to last.
At 34 lbs for the battery model and 27 lbs for the AC model, the Pickleball Tutor Plus Ultra is a bit heavier than some other machines on the market. But with the mounted 3" wheels, transport is still a breeze.
I've put the Pickleball Tutor Plus Ultra through its paces, and I can say with confidence that it delivers unparalleled performance. The preset drills are a game-changer for players who want to focus on specific shots, while the customizable options allow for endless variety in your training sessions.
The ball feed is consistent and accurate, and the machine's wide range of settings means you can simulate just about any game situation imaginable. Whether you're working on your dinks, volleys, lobs, or smashes, the Tutor Plus Ultra has you covered.
There's no denying that the Pickleball Tutor Plus Ultra is a significant investment, with a MSRP around $1,799. And if you want to add a remote control, you'll be looking at an additional $200 to $300.
But for serious players who want a machine that can do it all and grow with them over time, the Tutor Plus Ultra is worth every penny. With its unparalleled versatility, durability, and performance, this machine is a true investment in your pickleball journey.
My Verdict: Pickleball Tutor Plus Ultra
The Pickleball Tutor Plus Ultra is the ultimate training partner for players who want to take their game to the next level. With its preset drills, customizable options, and wide range of features, this machine can help you master every shot in the game. It's a significant investment, but one that will pay dividends in the form of improved skills and increased enjoyment on the court.
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The military-grade heavy-duty pickleball machine. See Best Price
Ball Capacity
120 (upgrade to 180)
Weight
65 lbs
Power Source
Battery or AC
Remote
Yes
Oscillation
Random, 2-way & 'stealth'
Spin Modes
Top & under
Max Speed
70 MPH
Battery Life
10-12 hrs
Dimensions
38" H x 14.5" L x 14.5" W
Warranty
5 years
My Review
If you're a high-level pickleball player looking for a machine that can keep up with your intense training regimen, look no further than the Simon X. This beast of a machine is designed to meet the demands of even the most advanced players, with unparalleled power, precision, and durability.
The Simon X is the ultimate choice for professional players, serious competitors, and anyone who wants to train like the pros. With its advanced features, customizable settings, and rock-solid construction, this machine is built to help you take your game to the next level.
The Simon X is loaded with features that set it apart from the competition. With a max speed of 70 mph, this machine can fire balls at you with lightning-fast velocity, challenging your reaction time and helping you prepare for even the toughest opponents.
But the Simon X isn't just about speed – it's also incredibly precise. The machine's advanced oscillation settings, including random, 2-way, and "stealth" modes, allow you to customize your training sessions to focus on specific areas of your game. And with top and back spin options, you can practice handling any type of shot your opponents throw at you.
One look at the Simon X, and you can tell that this machine means business. With its heavy-duty construction and rugged design, it's clear that the Simon X is built to withstand the rigors of intense, high-level training.
At 65 lbs, the Simon X is certainly not the most lightweight machine on the market. But its sturdy wheels and ergonomic handle make it relatively easy to transport, despite its heft. And with its 120-ball capacity and 10-12 hour battery life, you can train for hours on end without interruption.
I've put the Simon X through its paces, and I can say without hesitation that this machine delivers unrivaled performance. The ball feed is incredibly consistent and accurate, allowing you to focus on your form and footwork without any distractions.
The machine's advanced oscillation settings are a game-changer, allowing you to simulate realistic game scenarios and keep your training sessions dynamic and challenging. And with its top speed of 70 mph, the Simon X can push you to your limits and help you prepare for even the toughest opponents.
At around $2,700, the Simon X is certainly a significant investment. But for high-level players who are serious about their training and want the very best equipment, it's worth every penny.
With its unparalleled performance, durability, and advanced features, the Simon X is a machine that will help you take your game to new heights. And with a 5-year warranty, you can feel confident that your investment is protected for years to come.
My Verdict: Simon X
If you're an advanced pickleball player looking for a machine that can keep up with your intense training needs, the SIMON X is the ultimate choice. With its unrivaled power, precision, and durability, this machine is built to help you fine-tune your game and prepare for even the toughest opponents. It's a significant investment, but one that will pay dividends in the form of improved performance and competitive success.
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Choosing the perfect pickleball machine can feel overwhelming, but fear not – I'm here to help you find the ideal training partner to take your game to the next level. As an avid pickleballer who's spent countless hours testing these machines, I know exactly what features to prioritize to get the most bang for your buck.
Look for a machine that can generate topspin, backspin, and sidespin, so you can practice reading and responding to different shots effectively.
Beginners may be content with a moderate pace, but advanced players will want a machine with adjustable speed settings that can crank up the heat.
A premium machine like the Simon X delivers the highest top speed (70 MPH) but is incredibly precise down to 5 MPH as well. Cheaper models typically lack the same consistency.
Random oscillation tests your reaction time, while 2-line oscillation allows for targeted practice of specific shots and footwork patterns.
Tech-savvy players will appreciate a machine with remote control capabilities, allowing you to adjust settings on the fly and spend more time practicing. Some will even let you use your smartphone.
Machines with programmable drills can help you input specific shot sequences to hone in on your weaknesses and take your skills to new heights.
A larger ball hopper means less time spent reloading and more time practicing. Small models typically start around 50 balls capacity, while you can get up to 180 balls of capacity out of the Simon X with an add-on feeder.
If you plan to take your machine on the go, look for a lightweight, compact design with durable construction.
Machines like the Tutor Mini can easily be thrown into most trunks and carried by one person, while models like the Simon X take much more effort to set up and move around.
Consider whether you need a battery-powered or AC-powered machine based on your intended use.
Don't overlook the warranty – a longer warranty period can provide peace of mind and protect your investment. Aim for something with at least 2 years of warranty.
Keep in mind that battery warranties are often shorter (typically 6 months to 2 years).
Be realistic about your budget and look for a machine that offers the best value for your needs. Prioritize the features that matter most to your game.
The cheapest models land just below $1,000, but you'll have to splurge about $3,000 for the top machines.
Using a pickleball machine is generally easier than it seems and looks. It's important to note, however, that no two models are alike, so they all function in their own way.
Models from Pickleball Tutor, Lobster, and Simon are all well-documented and have easy-to-understand manuals that I recommend you read. You'll be running in no time.
Once you're ready to dive in, here's a simple step-by-step guide to get you up and running:
Remember, the key to getting the most out of your pickleball machine is to use it regularly and deliberately. Set aside dedicated practice time, focus on specific skills or shots, and don't be afraid to push yourself out of your comfort zone.
There you have it, folks – my comprehensive guide to the best pickleball machines of 2024. We've covered a lot of ground, from the top-of-the-line Pickleball Tutor Plus to the budget-friendly Pickleball Tutor Mini, and everything in between.
While each machine has its own unique strengths and features, my top picks for this year are:
Remember, the right pickleball machine for you depends on your specific needs, skill level, and budget. Consider the factors we've discussed, like spin, speed, oscillation, and programmability, and prioritize the features that matter most to your game.
A pickleball machine is a device that automatically feeds pickleball balls to a player, allowing them to practice various shots and drills without the need for a partner.
Pickleball machines are for players of all skill levels who want to improve their game through consistent, targeted practice. They're especially useful for players who don't always have access to a practice partner.
Yes! By allowing you to practice specific shots and drills repeatedly, a pickleball machine can help you develop muscle memory, improve your consistency, and take your skills to the next level.
If you're serious about improving your pickleball game and want to commit to consistent practice, a pickleball machine is definitely worth the investment. It's a valuable tool that can provide years of use and help you achieve your goals on the court.