Indoor vs Outdoor Pickleballs (2025): Can You Use the Same Ball for Both

Pickleball keeps growing, and more people are asking: "Can I use the same ball indoors and outdoors?" The rules don't change based on where you play, but the ball you use makes a big difference in how the game feels.

Let's talk about what makes indoor and outdoor pickleballs different, which ones work best, and whether you really need both types.

Why Pickleball Balls Are Different?

Pickleball reacts a lot to the surface you're playing on and the weather outside. That's why pickleball balls indoor vs outdoor are made differently.

Indoor balls work better on smooth floors like gyms or wooden courts. They're built for control.

Outdoor balls are tougher because they need to handle concrete, hot weather, and wind.

A ball that works great inside might crack when you take it outside. And an outdoor ball might feel too loud and bouncy in a quiet gym.

What Makes Indoor and Outdoor Pickleballs Different?

Here's what you need to know about the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs:

Most players who take the game seriously keep both types in their pickleball set.

Indoor Pickleballs

Indoor balls are made for control. They use slightly softer plastic and have 26 larger holes, so they move slower through the air. This makes them easier to watch and hit.

The bounce is lower and more predictable. You get longer rallies and more control over where the ball goes. They're also quieter, which matters when you're playing in gyms or community centers with noise rules.

Outdoor Pickleballs

Outdoor balls need to survive heat, wind, and rough surfaces. They're made from harder plastic and have 40 smaller holes to push through windy conditions.

The bounce is more energetic, and the ball moves faster. But they can crack if you play in really cold weather or extreme heat.

Best Outdoor Pickleball Balls (2025 / 2026)

Franklin X-40 - Used in tournaments, reliable, and easy to find.

Selkirk Pro S1 - New design that's supposed to resist cracking better. One of the best outdoor pickleball balls for 2025.

Onix Dura Fast 40 - The classic tournament ball, though it doesn't last as long as others.

Novapaddles All Star 40 - Newer option with good speed and outdoor performance.

If you mostly play outside, these are the ones to keep in your pickleball set.

Pickleball Ball Size & Standards

All pickleball balls follow the same basic rules:

• Diameter: 2.87 to 2.97 inches
• Weight: 0.78 to 0.935 ounces
• Bounce: Must meet USA Pickleball standards
• Holes: Between 26 and 40, depending on whether it's for indoor or outdoor

This keeps things fair across different brands while letting companies adjust for specific conditions.

Can You Use Indoor Balls Outdoors and Vice Versa?

So can you just grab one ball and use it everywhere?

Using Indoor Balls Outdoors:

• Good: Softer feel, quieter, easier for new players
• Bad: The bigger holes catch more wind, they don't last as long, and they crack on rough surfaces

Using Outdoor Balls Indoors:

• Good: Tougher, faster game, works for aggressive players
• Bad: Louder, harder bounce, might slide on gym floors

The answer: You can do it, but it's not great for serious play. If you're just playing for fun or forgot your bag, it'll work. But if you want the game to feel right, keep both types with you.

Which Pickleball Is for Indoors vs Outdoors?

Still not sure which pickleball is for indoors and which is for outdoors? Here's the simple version:

Indoor: 26 holes, softer, more control - Halo 26 or Onix Fuse Indoor

Outdoor: 40 holes, harder, handles wind - Novapaddles All star 40 , Selkirk Pro S1, or Onix Dura Fast 40

What's New in 2025 and 2026

Pickleball equipment keeps getting better:

Tougher Balls - Companies like Selkirk are making outdoor balls that crack less often.

Quieter Options - Some places are testing softer materials because neighbors complain about the noise.

Better for the Environment - More recyclable pickleball balls should be available by 2026.

Hybrid Balls - A few brands are testing balls that work both indoors and outdoors. They're not perfect yet, but they might get better by 2026 for casual players.

Taking Care of Your Pickleball Balls

Make your balls last longer with these tips:

• Switch between balls during games instead of using just one
• Clean outdoor balls with mild soap and water
• Store them inside, away from extreme heat or cold
• Replace them when the bounce feels off or you see cracks

Should You Buy a Pickleball Set?

If you're new to the game, a complete pickleball set with paddles, a net, and balls is a smart buy. Look for sets that include pickleball outdoor balls if you mainly play outside. Add some best indoor pickleball balls so you're ready for any situation.

Sets make sure you always have the right ball no matter where you end up playing.

Final Thoughts

The indoor vs outdoor pickleballs debate is pretty straightforward: balls are made differently because they need to be.

Indoor balls are softer, quieter, and slower. Outdoor balls are harder, louder, and faster.

Can you use one ball for both? Sure, but it won't feel quite right.

If you want to play your best, keep both types with you. That way, you'll have what you need whether you're in a gym on a rainy day or playing outside in the wind.

FAQs

What is the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs?

The main difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs is the material, holes, and durability. Indoor pickleball balls have 26 larger holes, softer plastic, and bounce slower for better control. Outdoor pickleball balls use harder plastic with 40 smaller holes to handle wind and rough surfaces.

Can you use the same pickleball indoors and outdoors?

Yes, you can use the same pickleball ball for both, but it's not the best choice. Indoor balls might crack or fly weird outside, while outdoor balls feel too hard and loud indoors. For the best game, keep both types in your pickleball set.

Which pickleball is for indoors?

Indoor balls are softer with 26 large holes, made for gyms and smooth courts. Popular ones include the Franklin X-26, Onix Fuse Indoor, and Gamma Photon Indoor.

Which pickleball is for outdoors?

Outdoor balls use harder plastic with 40 smaller holes to handle wind and concrete. The best outdoor pickleball balls for 2025 include the Franklin X-40, Selkirk Pro S1, Onix Dura Fast 40, and Vulcan VPRO Flight.

Do indoor pickleballs last longer than outdoor pickleballs?

Yes. Indoor balls usually last longer because gym floors are smoother and the temperature stays steady. Outdoor pickleball balls crack sooner from sun exposure, rough courts, and changing weather.

Are pickleball balls all the same size?

Yes, both indoor and outdoor balls follow the same pickleball ball size standards: about 2.9 inches across and weighing 0.8 to 1.0 ounces. The difference is in the number and size of holes.

What kind of ball is used in pickleball tournaments?

Most USA Pickleball tournaments use outdoor balls, usually the Onix Dura Fast 40 or Franklin X-40. Indoor tournaments typically use the Franklin X-26. Check the tournament rules for the official ball.

What is the best pickleball set for beginners?

A good pickleball set for beginners should have paddles, a net, and both indoor and outdoor pickleball balls. Sets with Novapaddles or Onix balls are good choices because they're approved by USA Pickleball.