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Indoor vs Outdoor Pickleball Balls: Differences and Best Picks
- Best outdoor ball: Franklin X-40 (outdoor) 路 Check price on Amazon
- Best indoor ball: ONIX Fuse Indoor 路 Check price on Amazon
- Best value outdoor: ONIX Fuse G2 (outdoor) 路 Check price on Amazon
Indoor and outdoor pickleballs look alike but play differently. Indoor balls usually have about 26 larger holes and softer plastic, so they fly slower and are easier to control. Outdoor balls usually have 40 smaller holes and firmer, heavier plastic, so they cut through wind and play faster, but they crack sooner, especially in the cold. Using an outdoor ball indoors makes play fast and loud; using an indoor ball outdoors makes it float in the wind. For more ball picks see our best pickleballs guide.
1. Franklin X-40 (outdoor)
Pros- 40 uniform holes (about 0.29 in)
- Widely used in tournaments and rec play
- USA Pickleball approved
- Outdoor balls can crack, especially in cold weather
2. Dura Fast 40 (outdoor)
Pros- The long-running original outdoor ball, formerly called Dura 56
- 40 holes in two sizes, a patented pattern meant to reduce seam damage
- Fast, heavy feel
- Harder, faster ball that some players find less forgiving
3. ONIX Fuse G2 (outdoor)
Pros- Seam-welded construction aimed at resisting splitting
- Sold in 3, 6 and 12 packs
- Some players prefer the feel of the X-40 or Dura
4. ONIX Fuse Indoor
Pros- Large-hole indoor version of the Fuse
- Seamless heat-welded ball made for indoor courts
- Floats too much in outdoor wind
5. Dura Big Hole (indoor)
Pros- Lighter ball with bigger holes to slow play down
- Thick-walled and durable
- Harder to find in stores than mainstream outdoor balls
Buying tips
- Outdoor balls: 40 smaller holes, firmer and heavier. Indoor balls: around 26 larger holes, softer and lighter.
- For sanctioned play, check that the ball is on the USA Pickleball approved list or ask the tournament director.
- Buy outdoor balls in bigger packs; they wear out faster than indoor balls.
- Pair the right ball with the right shoes: see our pickleball shoes guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use outdoor pickleballs indoors?
You can, but they play fast and loud indoors. Outdoor balls are firmer and heavier, with about 40 smaller holes.
Are indoor and outdoor pickleballs the same?
No. Indoor balls usually have about 26 larger holes and softer plastic, so they play slower and are easier to control. Outdoor balls are built to cut through wind.
Which lasts longer, indoor or outdoor pickleballs?
Indoor balls generally last longer. Outdoor balls are more likely to crack, especially in cold weather.