Best Indoor Pickleballs

Indoor pickleballs are designed specifically for gym floors and indoor courts, where the surface is smoother and the air is still. Unlike outdoor balls, which are built to handle wind and rougher pavement, indoor balls typically have larger holes and a softer plastic that produces a quieter, more controlled game. The key differences come down to hole count, construction, weight, and diameter, all of which affect how the ball flies and bounces.

Before you buy, check the ball’s hole pattern and construction. Most indoor balls have 26 holes and a two-piece or welded seam build, though some newer models use seamless rotomolding. Also look for approval from the USA Pickleball approved ball list if you plan to play in sanctioned tournaments. Visibility matters too, especially in gyms with bright or varied lighting, so consider colors like optic green or yellow.

Our Picks

Best Overall: Franklin X-26 Indoor

The Franklin X-26 Indoor from Franklin Sports is a 26-hole ball with two-piece construction, weighing 26 grams and measuring 74 mm in diameter. It is on the USA Pickleball approved ball list and is sold in 3, 12, and 100 packs. This ball suits players who want an approved indoor ball for league or tournament play. Franklin X-26 Indoor (paid link) Skip it if you prefer a seamless construction, as the X-26 uses a two-piece build rather than a seamless design.

Best Larger-Hole Design: Onix Fuse Indoor

The Onix Fuse Indoor features a larger hole pattern specifically designed for indoor courts, according to Onix, and uses welded seam construction. It is on the USA Pickleball approved ball list. This ball is a good choice for players who want a larger hole pattern that Onix says is made for indoor play. Onix Fuse Indoor (paid link) Skip it if you want to know exact specs, because Onix does not publish hole count, weight, or diameter on its product page.

Best for Visibility: Gamma Photon Indoor

The Gamma Photon Indoor has 26 precision-molded holes and two-piece construction, available in optic green, yellow, and red. It is on the USA Pickleball approved ball list. This ball is ideal for players who need high-visibility colors in gyms with challenging lighting. Gamma Photon Indoor (paid link) Skip it if you need to know the ball’s weight, because Gamma does not publish weight on its product page.

Best Indoor and Outdoor Option: Selkirk Pro S1

The Selkirk Pro S1 has 38 holes in two sizes, weighs 0.93 oz, and measures 2.8 inches in diameter. It uses seamless rotomolded construction and comes with a 1-year no-crack warranty from Selkirk. It is on the USA Pickleball approved ball list. Selkirk says this ball works for both indoor and outdoor play, making it a versatile option for players who switch surfaces. Selkirk Pro S1 (paid link) Skip it if you want an indoor-specific design, because the Pro S1 is not a dedicated 26-hole indoor ball.

Best for Practice: Onix Recruit Pure Indoor

The Onix Recruit Pure Indoor is a recreational ball with a precision-drilled hole pattern for indoor surfaces, according to Onix. It is designed for drills and practice and is not found on the USA Pickleball approved ball list, so it is not for sanctioned play. This ball suits players who want an affordable option for casual practice sessions. Onix Recruit Pure Indoor (paid link) Skip it if you need a ball for tournament or league play, because it is not on the approved list and Onix does not publish hole count, weight, or diameter.

How to Choose an Indoor Pickleball

Hole Count and Size

Most indoor pickleballs have 26 holes, which helps reduce drag and keeps the ball stable in still air. The Franklin X-26 Indoor and Gamma Photon Indoor both use 26 holes. Some balls, like the Onix Fuse Indoor, use a larger hole pattern that Onix says is designed for indoor courts, though Onix does not publish the exact hole count. The Selkirk Pro S1 has 38 holes in two sizes, which is more common in outdoor balls but can work indoors as well.

Construction

Indoor balls are typically made with two-piece construction or welded seams. The Franklin X-26 and Gamma Photon use two-piece construction, while the Onix Fuse Indoor uses welded seam construction. The Selkirk Pro S1 uses seamless rotomolded construction. The Onix Recruit Pure Indoor does not specify its construction type.

Weight and Diameter

Weight and diameter affect how the ball flies and bounces. The Franklin X-26 weighs 26 grams and has a 74 mm diameter. The Selkirk Pro S1 weighs 0.93 oz and has a 2.8 inch diameter. The Onix Fuse Indoor, Gamma Photon, and Onix Recruit do not publish weight or diameter on their product pages, so you may not have exact numbers for those models.

Approval for Tournament Play

If you plan to play in sanctioned tournaments, choose a ball that is on the USA Pickleball approved ball list. The Franklin X-26 Indoor, Onix Fuse Indoor, Gamma Photon Indoor, and Selkirk Pro S1 are all on the approved list. The Onix Recruit Pure Indoor is a recreational ball and was not found on the approved list, so it is not suitable for sanctioned play.

Visibility and Color

Gym lighting can vary, so ball color matters. The Gamma Photon Indoor comes in optic green, yellow, and red. The Franklin X-26 Indoor is available in several colors depending on the pack. The Onix Fuse Indoor and Onix Recruit do not specify available colors on their product pages. The Selkirk Pro S1 color options are not listed in the available facts.

How We Picked

We evaluated these indoor pickleballs through research, not physical trials. We examined manufacturer specifications, published product details, approval status from the USA Pickleball approved ball list, and independent expert coverage. Our criteria included hole count and design, construction type, weight and diameter, approval for tournament play, and visibility options. For more on our process, see How We Review. We did not assign scores or ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs?

Indoor pickleballs typically have larger holes and are made of a softer plastic, which makes them quieter and more controlled on smooth gym floors. Outdoor balls have smaller holes and harder plastic to handle wind and rough surfaces. Indoor balls are not designed for outdoor use and may wear out quickly on pavement.

How many holes should an indoor pickleball have?

Most indoor pickleballs have 26 holes, which is the standard for indoor play. Some models, like the Onix Fuse Indoor, use a larger hole pattern, and the Selkirk Pro S1 has 38 holes in two sizes. The hole count affects the ball’s flight and stability.

Are all indoor pickleballs approved for tournament play?

No. Only balls that appear on the USA Pickleball approved ball list are allowed in sanctioned tournaments. The Franklin X-26 Indoor, Onix Fuse Indoor, Gamma Photon Indoor, and Selkirk Pro S1 are on the approved list. The Onix Recruit Pure Indoor is a recreational ball and is not approved for sanctioned play.

What is the best color for an indoor pickleball?

The best color depends on the lighting in your gym. The Gamma Photon Indoor is available in optic green, yellow, and red. The Franklin X-26 Indoor comes in several colors. Choose a color that contrasts well with the floor and walls.

Can I use an outdoor pickleball indoors?

You can, but outdoor balls are harder and louder on indoor courts. They may also bounce differently. For the best experience, use a ball designed for indoor play, such as the Franklin X-26 Indoor or the Onix Fuse Indoor.

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