Tennis Court vs. Pickleball Court: Size, Differences, and Which to Choose

Pickleball is hot, tennis is global. But if you’re thinking of setting up a court or picking up a racket you might wonder: which court is right for you?

Tennis and pickleball may share similarities but their court sizes and layouts are different. This guide will compare their dimensions, markings, and key features to help you decide which sport and court is best for you.

Pickleball Court: Size and Details

Pickleball court flooring is much smaller than tennis courts, more space efficient, and easier to maintain.

Standard Pickleball Court Dimensions

• Width: 20 feet

• Length: 44 feet

• Recommended total playing area (for movement): 30 feet wide x 60 feet long

Multiple pickleball courts can fit into the space of a single tennis court.

The Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen)

One of the unique features of a pickleball court is the non-volley zone also known as the kitchen

• 7 feet from the net on both sides.

• **You can’t volley (hit the ball in the air) inside this zone.

• This rule encourages strategy over power.

Pickleball Court Variations: Single vs. Multiple Courts

• Single court: Standard dimensions apply.

• Multiple courts: Four pickleball courts can fit into the space of one tennis court.

• Indoor vs. Outdoor: Indoor pickleball courts may have different surface and space constraints but dimensions remain the same.

Tennis Court: Regulation and Variations

Tennis courts are much bigger, for singles and doubles play.

Standard Tennis Court Dimensions

• Singles court: 27 feet wide x 78 feet long.

• Doubles court: 36 feet wide x 78 feet long.

• Total recommended area: 60 feet wide x 120 feet long (for player movement and safety).

Tennis Court Markings and Zones

Tennis courts have more markings than pickleball courts including:

• Service boxes (for serving accuracy)

• Baselines and sidelines (singles vs. doubles play)

• No non-volley zones like in pickleball

Variations in Tennis Court Size

• Junior courts: Smaller sizes for youth training (36 to 60 feet long)* Modified courts: Some recreational facilities create hybrid courts for multiple sports.

Tennis vs Pickleball Court: Key Differences

The difference of tennis vs pickleball court are as follows - 

Size and Net Height

• Pickleball courts are smaller than tennis courts.

• Net height:

  • Tennis net: 36 inches at the center.

  • Pickleball net: 34 inches at the center, slightly lower.

Surface Material

• Tennis courts: Asphalt, clay, or grass.

• Pickleball courts: Concrete or asphalt with acrylic coating.

Court Markings and Lines

• Pickleball courts have simpler markings with fewer zones.

• Tennis courts have more detailed markings for different shots and playstyles.

Pickleball Court vs Tennis Court: Space Requirements

Pickleball is a space-efficient sport.

• One tennis court can fit four pickleball courts.

• Perfect for facilities that want to make the most of their space and accommodate more players.

Converting a Tennis Court to Pickleball Courts

• Many facilities are painted over tennis court flooring with pickleball lines.

• Temporary or permanent pickleball nets can be installed.

• Cost savings and more court usage make conversion an attractive option.

Space for Home Courts

• If you have limited space a pickleball court is easier to install in your backyard.

• Tennis courts require much more land and investment.

Choosing the Right Court: What to Consider

Skill Level & Play Style

• Beginners: Pickleball is easier to learn.

• Experienced players: Tennis is more physically demanding.

• Seniors: Pickleball is less intense and easier on the joints.

Physical Demand

• Tennis requires more running.

• Pickleball involves shorter, quicker movements.

Community & Popularity

• Check which sport has more players in your area.

• Some communities like pickleball because of its accessibility while others have a strong tennis tradition.

Cost and Maintenance

• Pickleball courts are cheaper to build and maintain.

• Tennis courts require more maintenance because of size and surface options.

Expert Opinion

According to sports facility experts pickleball is growing fast and many communities are converting underused tennis courts to pickleball courts. But tennis is here to stay for those who want a larger court and longer matches.

Conclusion: Your Court Choice

Both pickleball and tennis have their advantages. If space, accessibility, and ease of play are your priority pickleball is the way to go. If you want a bigger court and more physical activity tennis is the way to go.

Ultimately the best court is the one that fits your needs, interests, and space. Whether you choose to volley on a tennis court or step into the pickleball kitchen both sports are a blast and competitive.