When choosing a pickleball paddle, one of the most common questions players ask is:
“Should I get a paddle for power or for control?”

It’s a crucial decision. The paddle you use affects everything—your consistency, your confidence, and your ability to win points. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between power and control paddles and help you decide which one fits your game best.

What Is a Power Paddle?

Power paddles are designed to give you extra pop and speed on your shots. They’re perfect for players who like to finish points quickly, drive the ball hard, and dominate from the baseline.

Common Features of Power Paddles:

• Thinner core (12–14mm): Less dwell time, more rebound

• Higher swing weight: Adds velocity on overheads and drives

• Rigid surfaces: Creates quick energy transfer on contact

• Often elongated: For more leverage and reach

Best For:

• Players with a naturally soft touch who need more pace

• Singles players or aggressive doubles players

• Advanced or athletic players who prioritize power over precision

Coming Soon: Addict’s next-generation power paddle is under development—built with pro-grade materials for maximum explosiveness. Stay tuned.

What Is a Control Paddle?

Control paddles help you place the ball exactly where you want it. They’re designed for finesse, resets, dinks, and soft-touch shots that win long rallies and keep your opponents off-balance.

At Addict, the Infinity 8 Control Paddle is our go-to for players who value precision over power. It’s made with advanced materials and a design focused on enhancing your feel, feedback, and placement.

Common Features of Control Paddles:

• Thicker core (16mm): More dwell time for better touch

• Balanced swing weight: Promotes stability and quick reaction

• Textured surfaces: Improves spin and control angles

• Wider sweet spot: More forgiveness on off-center hits

Best For:

• Beginners and intermediates learning strategy and consistency

• Doubles players focused on dinking and resets

• Players who want to reduce unforced errors and improve shot selection

Real Player Feedback on the Infinity 8

“This paddle has completely transformed my game. The balance and grip make every shot feel natural, and I finally feel like I’m in control.”
— Hunter Henson

“I love the feel of the Infinity 8. It gives me just enough spin and soft touch at the kitchen without sacrificing confidence on blocks or drives.”
— Savannah K.

“I’m new to pickleball and was overwhelmed with paddle choices. The Infinity 8 gave me the consistency I needed to improve my game quickly.”
— Jordan F.

Power vs Control: Side-by-Side Comparison

How to Choose the Right Paddle

Ask yourself:

• Do I prefer driving winners or controlling the point with touch?

• Am I playing mostly singles or doubles?

• Do I need help adding power—or taming it?

If you’re a newer player or someone still refining their touch, a control paddle like the Infinity 8 will help you develop faster and play more confidently.

If you already have great control and need help finishing points, a power paddle may give you that final edge.

Final Takeaway: Master Control, Then Add Power

At Addict, we believe in mastering the fundamentals before chasing flash. Control builds the foundation of every great pickleball player’s game. Power comes next.

That’s why we created the Infinity 8 Control Paddle—to help players grow their consistency, sharpen their decision-making, and gain confidence with every shot.

Explore the Paddle Trusted by Control-Focused Players

Shop the Infinity 8 Control Paddle →
https://www.addictpickleball.com/products/infinity-8-control-paddle

Built for control. Trusted by players. Designed to help you play your game, your way.