Pickleball vs Tennis:
What’s the Real Difference?
Pickleball and tennis are often compared because they look similar at first glance. Both are played with paddles (or rackets), on courts divided by nets. But if you look a little closer, you’ll see that they are actually quite different sports. Each with their own feel, rules, gear, and fan base.
In this post, we’ll break down the major differences between pickleball vs tennis. From how the games are played, to the rules, gear, and courts of both. We’ll even discuss why so many people are leaving tennis behind to jump into the pickleball craze. So whether you’re a beginner curious about both sports, or a seasoned tennis player considering a switch, we’ll give you everything you need to know.
The Basics: What Are Pickleball and Tennis?
Tennis is a classic sport that’s been around for centuries. It’s played with rackets and a felt-covered rubber ball on a large court. Pickleball, on the other hand, is relatively new. It started in the 1960s and combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. Players use a solid paddle and a plastic ball with holes (kind of like a Wiffle ball).
While tennis can be fast-paced with long rallies and powerful serves, pickleball is known for its shorter court, lower net, and a unique area called the “kitchen” where volleys aren’t allowed. This creates a totally different rhythm and strategy in the game.
Pickleball vs Tennis: Court Size and Layout
One of the most obvious differences is the court.
- A tennis court is 78 feet long and 27 feet wide for singles, and 36 feet wide for doubles.
- A pickleball court is much smaller: 44 feet long and 20 feet wide for both singles and doubles.
Many beginners ask: “Can you play pickleball on a tennis court?” The answer is yes! With temporary lines and a portable pickleball net, you can easily set up multiple pickleball courts on one tennis court.
Pickleball Net Height vs Tennis
While both nets seem similar, there is a bit of a height difference between the two.
- A tennis net is 42 inches at the posts, or sides. The net then dips to 36 inches in the middle.
- Pickleball nets are 36 inches at the sides and dip to 34 inches in the center.
Not only is a tennis net higher in general compared to a pickleball net, the dip in the middle is also larger. This might seem like a small detail, but it affects how the ball plays. This is especially true when combined with the ball’s different bounce and speed.
Pickleball vs Tennis Ball Size and Feel
Another major difference is the ball.
- A tennis ball is fuzzy, heavier, and made of pressurized rubber. It bounces high and moves fast (which is why the tennis net needs to be a bit taller than the pickleball net).
- A pickleball is light, plastic, and full of holes. It has a much lower bounce and doesn’t travel as fast, especially in the wind.
This means that rallies in pickleball tend to be slower and more strategic, while tennis is more about power and placement. It also means that pickleball is easier on the joints. This is a big reason why so many older adults are getting into it.
Pickleball vs Tennis Rules: How the Games Are Played
Both games use similar scoring goals (win by 2, serve from the right side at the start). However, the rules and style between the two are quite different.
Tennis:
- You can serve overhand.
- The ball can bounce once before hitting it (except on volleys).
- Scoring goes from 15–30–40–game.
- You can volley anywhere on the court.
Pickleball:
- You must serve underhand.
- The ball has to bounce once on each side of the court before volleys are allowed (the “two-bounce rule”).
- The “kitchen” (a 7-foot no-volley zone) prevents players from spiking to close to the net.
- Scoring is simpler—only the serving team can score points, and games usually go to 11.
This setup in pickleball encourages longer rallies and more finesse-based play.
What Is Easier to Play: Tennis or Pickleball?
All this raises the question, “What is easier to play, tennis or pickleball?” The short answer is, Pickleball!
We learned that in pickleball, the court is smaller, the ball moves slower, and you don’t need to cover as much ground. Because of this, pickleball is generally considered more accessible to most people. Especially beginners, older players, or those who haven’t played racket sports before.
Tennis, while incredibly rewarding, requires more stamina, strength, and precision. That’s why many casual players find pickleball easier to learn and enjoy right away!
Why Do People Like Pickleball More Than Tennis?
Pickleball has exploded in popularity in recent years, and not just among retirees. Younger players, competitive athletes, and even former tennis pros are joining in. So what’s the big draw?
Here are a few reasons why people love pickleball so much:
- It’s social. Because the court is smaller, you’re always close to your partner and opponents. This makes the game feel more engaging and friendly.
- Low learning curve. Most people can play and enjoy pickleball within their first few games. It’s fast to learn but still offers depth for those who want to improve.
- Less physically demanding. The slower ball and smaller court reduce wear and tear on the body.
- Shorter games. Pickleball matches are often quicker, which is usually appealing for most people.
All of this adds up to a sport that feels rewarding from day one, and keeps you coming back for more!
Pickleball vs Tennis Shoes: Is There a Difference?
Yes! And this is something many players often overlook.
Tennis shoes are typically built for quick side-to-side motion. They have heavier soles and support for hard cuts and explosive movement.
Pickleball, while also requiring lateral movement, is usually played on smaller courts. There are usually more starts and stops in a pickleball match, so the shoe design can differ slightly.
Key Differences:
Tennis shoes: More durable, designed for larger courts and higher-impact movement.
Pickleball shoes: Often lighter, with more grip and support for indoor courts or gym floors. These shoes have added stability for fast footwork and quick changes in direction.
It should be noted that while there are some key differences between the two types of shoes, if you’re just starting out, any good pair of athletic shoes will be just fine. Just know that pickleball shoes are actually a thing!
Can You Play Pickleball on a Tennis Court?
Absolutely, and it’s actually very common!
Many cities have started lining their tennis courts in a different color for pickleball. A tennis court can fit up to four pickleball courts (two per side), depending on space and setup.
All you need is a portable net, some boundary markers or tape, and a few friends. If your local park hasn’t done this yet, it’s always worth asking! With the explosive growth pickleball has seen recently, they may be open to making the space dual-purpose.
Why Is Pickleball Addictive?
If you’ve ever talked to a dedicated pickleball player, you’ve probably heard the word “addicted.” But why?
Pickleball offers a rare balance of challenge and instant gratification.
Rallies are exciting, but manageable. You can play for fun, or get deeply competitive. It can give you a great workout, but you also don’t need to be a top-tier athlete to succeed.
Plus, there’s also a strong community aspect. Local pickleball courts are popping up in neighborhoods, rec. centers, and parks everywhere. Open play formats let you meet new people, mix partners, and stay active.
There’s always a game to jump into, and that’s where the addiction begins!
Pickleball vs Tennis: Which Should You Choose?
Ultimately, it really just depends on what you’re looking for in a sport.
Choose pickleball if:
- You want a social, quick-to-learn sport.
- You prefer less running and more finesse.
- You’re recovering from an injury or just starting out.
- You want a community feel and regular pickup games.
Choose tennis if:
- You especially love a challenge and fast-paced play.
- You enjoy singles matches with lots of running.
- You have a background in racket sports.
- You’re aiming to compete at a higher athletic level.
Final Thoughts
When comparing pickleball to tennis, it’s true they share some similarities. However, on a closer look, they are both completely different experiences.
Pickleball is easier to learn, more social, and less physically demanding. Perfect for casual players or anyone looking for a fun way to stay active. Tennis, on the other hand, is more intense, athletic, and strategic. Ideal for those who love high-energy sports.
Both have their place, and there’s no reason you can’t enjoy both! In fact, many players do just that. There’s no reason you can’t cross-train between the two, mix things up, and keep improving.
No matter which path you take, one thing is clear: racket sports are here to stay. And with pickleball booming, now is the perfect time to grab a paddle and hit the court! So if you’re new to either sport and/or curious where to start, try attending a local pickleball open play session. You just might be surprised with how much fun you have…
…and how fast you get hooked!
Related Questions:
Q: Can you play pickleball with a tennis racket, or vice-versa ?
A: No. Pickleball paddles are smaller and made of solid material like composite or graphite. Tennis rackets are larger and have strings.
Q: Is pickleball better for older adults than tennis?
A: Generally, yes. Pickleball has a slower pace, lighter equipment, and is played on a smaller court. This makes it easier on the joints.
Q: Can tennis players switch to pickleball easily?
A: Many tennis players find pickleball easy to pick up. However, they often need to adjust their strategy. This is especially true around the non-volley zone (“the kitchen”).
