The 30-second version
- A regulation pickleball net is 22 feet wide, 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center — the same as the court width.
- Portable nets ($100–$300) are perfect for driveways, tennis courts, and anywhere you want to play; permanent post systems ($800–$1,200) suit dedicated courts.
- Look for regulation height, a stable base, easy setup, and weather-resistant materials.
- Don’t use a tennis net — it’s too high; you need a pickleball-specific net.
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Whether you’re setting up in the driveway or outfitting a court, the net is where the game happens. Here’s what to look for and the best pickleball nets for every situation.
Regulation net dimensions
A pickleball net spans the full 22-foot width of the court (20 ft of court plus the net posts), standing 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center — that slight center dip is standard. Any net you buy for real play should hit these numbers. (See our court dimensions guide.)
Portable vs. permanent
- Portable nets — freestanding nets with a metal frame and a weighted or wheeled base that set up in minutes and fold away. Ideal for driveways, tennis courts, gyms, and anyone without a dedicated court. Typically $100–$300.
- Permanent post systems — net posts anchored into a concrete court, like a tennis net. The most stable and best-looking, but a real installation — usually $800–$1,200. Best for a court you’re building.
What to look for in a portable net
- Regulation height (36″/34″) — the essential.
- A stable base — a good net doesn’t sag or tip in wind. Heavier bases and center supports help.
- Quick, tool-free setup — you’ll set it up and break it down often.
- Durable, weather-resistant materials — powder-coated steel frame, UV-resistant netting.
- A carry bag and reasonable weight for transport.
Top pickleball net picks
- Best overall portable: established brands like Franklin, JOOLA, and Onix make sturdy, regulation portable nets that hold up to regular use.
- Best value: a basic portable net from a reputable brand covers casual driveway play affordably.
- Best premium/portable: heavier tournament-style portable nets (e.g., PickleNet-style systems) offer the most stability short of a permanent install.
- Best permanent: an in-ground post system for a dedicated court.
The cheap DIY option
Setting up at home on a budget? A portable net plus court-marking tape on any flat surface gets you playing for a couple hundred dollars. See our how to build a court guide for the full DIY setup.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best pickleball net?
For most players, a sturdy regulation portable net from a reputable brand (Franklin, JOOLA, Onix, or a PickleNet-style system) is the best choice — it sets up anywhere in minutes. For a dedicated court, a permanent in-ground post system is the most stable.
How high is a regulation pickleball net?
A pickleball net is 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center, spanning the full 22-foot width. The slight dip in the middle is standard and intentional.
Can you use a tennis net for pickleball?
Not properly — a tennis net is 42 inches at the posts and 36 at center, which is too high for pickleball. You need a pickleball-specific net at 36″/34″ for the game to play correctly.
How much does a pickleball net cost?
Portable nets typically run $100–$300 depending on quality and stability, while permanent in-ground post systems for a dedicated court run roughly $800–$1,200. A basic portable net is plenty for driveway and casual play.
What should I look for in a portable pickleball net?
Regulation height (36″/34″), a stable, wind-resistant base, quick tool-free setup, durable weather-resistant materials, and a carry bag. Stability is the biggest differentiator between cheap and good portable nets.
Setting up a court?
Pair your net with our how to build a pickleball court guide and the exact court dimensions — or find a court to play on in our directory.