Pickleball ball pickup tools: types, which to choose and when you don't need one
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Searching for a pickleball ball pickup tool gives very different results: tubes, baskets, clamps, pieces for the handle. They look the same and aren't. They solve different problems.
This guide separates the types by what they do, says what to check before buying and, above all, when not to buy any.
The three types of ball pickup tools
Tube
A hollow tube, often extendable, with a mouth that rests on the ball. The ball goes in and stays inside, and they accumulate. You take them out the other end.
What it's for: picking up many balls in a row at the end of a practice or a basket session.
What to look at: the length (so it doesn't make you bend down), that the mouth is wide enough for the ball and how many balls fit inside.
Basket
A basket or bucket on legs, which fills with balls and is moved around the court. Some can be folded.
What it's for: practices and lessons, when there are dozens of balls in play.
What to look at: capacity, empty weight and whether it folds to take it in the car.
Handle
A silicone piece that slips onto the end of the paddle handle. You lower the handle toward the ball, press and lift. We sell one, the SCOOP.
What it's for: point-to-point play in a match, one ball at a time, without letting go of the paddle.
What to look at: that it fits the end of your handle, the weight it adds and that the material grips the ball well.
What to check before buying any of them
- When you'll use it. For matches, a handle one. For training with a basket, a tube or basket one. Buying the wrong one is the main reason they end up in a drawer.
- How you carry it. If it has to be held in your hand, you occupy a hand. If it goes on the handle, you don't.
- That it fits your paddle. Handle ones depend on the handle end: measure first if yours is unusual.
- The weight it adds. With a handle accessory it's about 33 g (1.2 oz) at the end, and the paddle feels different. It comes off in a second, but you have to know it.
- The return policy. That you can return it if it doesn't convince you. We give 14 days to customers in the EU and the UK.
- The tournament. If you compete, ask the organizers whether accessories on the paddle are allowed.
When you don't need any
- If you play now and then and bending down doesn't bother you.
- If you already do the paddle and foot technique well, which is free.
- If you're going to compete and haven't confirmed the rules allow it.
What is worthwhile for almost everyone, without buying anything, is carrying a spare ball in your pocket. We explain it along with four other ways in picking up the ball without bending down.
Quick comparison
| Tube | Basket | Handle | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Practice | Lessons and drills | Matches |
| Balls in a row | Many | Lots | One |
| Occupies a hand | Yes | Yes, or dragged | No |
| Carried in | Bag | Car | The paddle itself |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best ball pickup tool for pickleball?
The one that fits your use: tube or basket if you train with many balls, handle if you want to pick up the match ball without bending down.
Does a handle pickup tool work on any paddle?
It slips onto the end of the handle of standard paddles. If yours is very wide or an unusual shape, it's worth measuring first.
Can it be used in a tournament?
We don't know, and it depends on each tournament's rules. Ask the organizers.
