Quick answer: Pickleball is played on a smaller court (20 x 44 feet) with a solid paddle and a plastic ball with holes, its own volley-serve and drop-serve rules, and games that usually go to 11. Tennis uses a bigger court, strung rackets, a felt ball and, most commonly, an overhead serve.
Tennis people: relax. Pickleball people: stay humble. Here is how the two sports stack up, no trophies required.
The court
A pickleball court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. A tennis court is much bigger. Some tennis facilities accommodate multiple pickleball courts, but the layout depends on available space, clearance and venue approval. Don't arrive with tape and a dream—ask the facility first. Pickleball also has the kitchen, a no-volley zone that tennis does not have. See every measurement in our court size guide.
The equipment
Tennis uses a strung racket and a fuzzy felt ball. Pickleball uses a solid paddle and a plastic ball with holes. The equipment feels different, so give yourself time to adjust.
The serve
Tennis players commonly serve overhead, although underhand serves are legal (USTA explains). Pickleball has its own volley-serve and drop-serve requirements, and the serve has to land in the diagonal service court, beyond the kitchen. You only get one try.
The scoring
Tennis scoring goes 15, 30, 40 and into sets. Pickleball games usually go to 11, win by 2, and in traditional scoring only the serving team can score. Learn it in our pickleball scoring guide.
The pace
Pickleball rallies are shorter in distance but just as sneaky. There is less running and more placing the ball, which is why soft shots like the dink matter so much.
Which is easier to learn?
Most people find pickleball faster to learn because of the smaller court and simpler swing. Tennis takes longer to get the ball over the net consistently. That said, both reward practice.
Pickleball vs. tennis FAQ
Can I use a tennis racket for pickleball?
No. Pickleball uses a paddle.
Is the net the same height?
No. A pickleball net is lower: 36 inches at the posts and 34 inches in the middle.
Can tennis players pick up pickleball quickly?
Usually yes, though they often have to learn to hit softer and respect the kitchen.
Ready to try? Start with our beginner's guide to how to play pickleball and pick a paddle from our pastel pickleball paddles for women.