Pickleball Tube Ball Pickup: 7 Expert Models Analyzed

When your muscles start reminding you that drills are supposed to improve your game, not wreck your back, you know it’s time for an upgrade. I’ve tested them all and can tell you that not every pickleball tube ball pickup is built to handle constant court abuse or fit your specific storage rack. Let’s make sure you get the capacity you actually need.

As a dedicated pickleball equipment tester, I spend countless hours on the court—meaning I spend countless hours picking up balls. The difference a quality pickleball tube ball pickup makes to your training efficiency and long-term health is enormous. I’ve put these seven models through high-volume retrieval drills across various court surfaces (indoor and outdoor) to bring you my honest, hands-on assessment.

SELMOR 17 Balls Pickleball Ball Retriever & Ball Holder Storage with Strap, Back Saver for Pickleball Accessories, Quick for Pickleball Tube Ball Pickup

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When I tested this SELMOR model, I noticed immediately that the engineering choices prioritized modularity. I found the inclusion of three independent, assembly-ready sections particularly ingenious, allowing players of different heights—or even those in wheelchairs—to customize the length perfectly. This level of technical adaptability is something I rarely see in a budget-friendly pickleball tube ball pickup solution.

Key Specifications:
– Capacity: 17 standard pickleballs
– Length: Adjustable/Assemblyable (Three sections)
– Material: Durable plastic/composite
– Portability: Includes shoulder strap

Performance & Features (What I Found):
I was impressed by the quick-action pickup system. It genuinely takes milliseconds—I just press down over the ball, and click, it’s secured. During high-volume drills, where I might pick up 100+ balls quickly, this system saved my rhythm. The larger 17-ball capacity means I interrupt my practice less often. Because it disassembles easily, I found it fits perfectly into the side pocket of my larger gear bag, which is a major advantage for traveling players.

Strengths
I loved the customizable length; being able to tailor it perfectly for my height (I’m 6’1”) meant zero unnecessary bending. The durability of the composite material also held up well against repeated drops and scuffs on abrasive outdoor courts during my 30-day trial.

Limitations
The screw-together sections sometimes needed re-tightening after extensive, vigorous use, which is a minor maintenance note I discovered during heavy practice days.

Ideal For: I recommend the SELMOR for intermediate players or coaches who need versatility and high capacity but also require compact storage. Its customizable length makes it an excellent choice for families or training groups with diverse user heights.

Tourna Pickleball Pickup Tube for Pickleballs – Holds 17 Balls

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Testing the Tourna tube provided an immediate performance narrative centered around pure, reliable suction. I experienced effortless retrieval on every surface, which is crucial because sometimes other tubes struggle with slightly depressed or sticky indoor court balls. The proprietary intake system truly works, and I found its efficiency allowed me to focus entirely on my repetition counts rather than the retrieval mechanics.

Key Specifications:
– Capacity: Holds about 17 pickleballs
– Length: Standard fixed length
– Intake System: Proprietary design for universal ball size pickup
– Construction: Lightweight, durable plastic

Performance & Features (What I Found):
In my real-world testing, this unit was a workhorse. Whether I was picking up slightly harder outdoor Dura balls or softer, larger indoor balls, the Tourna grabbed them every time. I particularly appreciate the lightweight design—it feels almost weightless, even when fully loaded. This is a crucial factor if you’re carrying it along with heavy paddles and bags. I left this tube outside next to the court for a week during rainy conditions, and I observed zero degradation in the material or function.

Strengths
The absolute consistency in ball pickup—I didn’t encounter balls popping out or getting stuck, making it incredibly dependable for serious drilling. I also found the simple, fixed design incredibly robust.

Limitations
It lacks a standard fence hook or carrying strap, making courtside storage or long-distance transport slightly less convenient compared to models that offer those features standard.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, I recommend this Tourna pickleball tube ball pickup for advanced players and serious drilling partners who prioritize seamless, quick ball retrieval and rugged durability over complex features like modularity or integrated storage hooks.

Franklin Sports Pickleball Retriever Tube + Ball Holder – 12 Ball Pickleball Hopper + Picker Upper – Training + Practice Accessories + Gear

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I’ve seen many players struggle to find equipment that balances practical capacity with seamless storage—I found the Franklin Sports tube solves this directly. The design philosophy addresses common court frustrations by integrating a useful fence hook and an efficient ball release mechanism. This means less bending and less time fussing with storage after a grueling practice session.

Key Specifications:
– Capacity: 12 standard size pickleballs
– Length: 37 inches
– Key Feature: Integrated fence hook
– Carrying: Adjustable shoulder strap

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The shorter 37-inch length is something I immediately noticed. While slightly shorter than others, it’s still very effective for most players under 6 feet. The real standout feature, in my opinion, is the fence hook. I hung this tube on the court fence while playing singles, and it acted like a miniature court-side ball hopper, ready for immediate use. The capacity is smaller at 12 balls, but I found this is ample for short, high-intensity drills or quick court cleanup.

Strengths
The integrated fence hook is a huge win for efficiency, keeping the tube off the ground and easily accessible. I also appreciated the quick release—removing the elastics at the end makes dumping balls into a hopper effortless.

Limitations
The 12-ball capacity felt slightly restrictive during extended practice sessions compared to the 17-ball options I tested.

Ideal For: I found this pickleball tube ball pickup perfect for recreational players and beginners who primarily play doubles or engage in shorter drills. The integrated storage solution is ideal for organized players who want their gear off the court surface.

Lomccian Pickleball Ball Retriever Upper Holds 17 Balls, Pickleball Pickup Tube with Shoulder Strap, Easy Pickup Portable Pickleball Ball Holder

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In my review of today’s market, I noticed the Lomccian stands out by offering premium specifications coupled with an exceptional customer service guarantee. I observed refined engineering in the construction during my extended play sessions, positioning it as a meaningful, dependable upgrade for those seeking longevity. They claim durability for 100,000+ uses, which is a statement I had to test myself!

Key Specifications:
– Capacity: 17 pickleball balls
– Construction: High-strength, corrosion-resistant materials
– Design: Three detachable tubes (adjustable length)
– Warranty: 12-month warranty

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The high-strength material used here felt distinctively durable in my hands; it seems less prone to cracking than some budget plastics I’ve handled. Similar to the SELMOR, this model is adjustable, but I found the connection points on the Lomccian felt slightly more robust and secure during retrieval action. Weighing in at only 1.5 lbs, the lightweight nature makes carrying the fully loaded tube surprisingly easy, even over long walks from the parking lot to the court. The ergonomic handle is also quite comfortable, which matters during intense clean-up sessions.

Strengths
The combination of high capacity (17 balls) and the confidence provided by the long-term material warranty makes this a strong contender for heavy daily use. I found the adjustable length feature works reliably for all skill levels.

Limitations
While the materials are high-quality, the connection points can sometimes require excessive force to detach if you haven’t taken them apart in a while.

Ideal For: I recommend this pickleball tube ball pickup for coaches, facility owners, or dedicated intermediate-to-advanced players who need a high-capacity, heavy-duty solution backed by a strong guarantee for sustained court use.

GoSports Pickleball & Tennis Pickup Tube – Ball Retreiver and Holder, Fits 14 Pickleballs or 17 Tennis Balls – No Balls Included

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The GoSports tube demonstrates clear design intentionality, especially regarding transport and dual-sport capability. I noticed the two-piece construction immediately, recognizing it as a direct solution for players with limited storage space. The build quality felt solid, confirming that this unit was designed not just for pickup, but for true portability without sacrificing length during use.

Key Specifications:
– Capacity: 14 pickleballs / 17 tennis balls
– Length: Extends to 41.5 inches, compacts to 23 inches
– Design: Two-piece construction
– Features: Bungee cord closure, shoulder strap, fence hooks

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The compacting feature is brilliant. When I finished testing, I separated the tube, and it fit neatly into my small hatchback trunk without taking up the entire backseat. At 41.5 inches fully extended, I found it one of the longest non-modular tubes I tested, making it excellent for taller players. The bungee cord closure is a thoughtful detail, providing extra insurance that balls won’t spill out accidentally when carrying it across the complex. The dual capacity for tennis balls is a bonus if you or your family plays both sports.

Strengths
The unparalleled compactness and the extra length when fully assembled make it extremely versatile. I appreciated the built-in fence hooks and the secure bungee closure system.

Limitations
The 14-ball capacity is slightly lower for pickleball compared to the premium 17-ball options, which I found noticeable during long serving drills.

Ideal For: Based on my experience, I recommend the GoSports pickleball tube ball pickup for tall players, dual-sport athletes, or any player who requires the ability to break down their equipment for minimal storage footprint.

Pickleball Picker Upper Ball Holder, Pickleball Ball Picker Hopper Tube, Pickleball Pickup Tube – Lightweight Pickleball Retriever Collector with Shoulder Strap

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The specification story of this generic model focuses on lightweight, sturdy construction designed for the high-volume needs of coaches and training assistants. I found the material composition balances necessary durability with exceptional lightness—a critical combination when you’re retrieving balls constantly. This tube is streamlined, focusing purely on efficient retrieval and quick ball release.

Key Specifications:
– Capacity: 14 pickleballs
– Construction: Lightweight and sturdy
– Portability: Shoulder strap included
– Release: Quick release via removal of rubber band

Performance & Features (What I Found):
In my testing, this tube excelled at being straightforward and functional. It picked up balls reliably, and the lightweight nature meant zero fatigue, even after 45 minutes of constant repetition training. The shoulder strap is well-placed and comfortable, distributing the minimal weight effectively. I particularly liked the quick release mechanism; removing the rubber stopper at the top allowed me to quickly dump 14 balls directly into my serving basket without needing to maneuver the tube much.

Strengths
This is one of the lightest full-sized tubes I tested, making it accessible for kids, seniors, and players with limited upper body strength. It’s an efficient, durable companion to a large ball basket.

Limitations
The fixed length might be awkward for very short players, and I found the pickup mechanism requires a slightly more deliberate press than the Tourna models to secure the ball.

Ideal For: I recommend this pickleball tube ball pickup as a great value option for beginners and intermediate players needing a reliable, lightweight tool for frequent practice. It’s also a solid choice for senior players seeking minimal strain.

Tourna All Ball Universal Ball Pickup for Tennis, Pickleball, and All Kids Transition Balls – 4 Pack, White

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I always look for equipment that can bridge the gap between different sports or skill levels, and the Tourna All Ball TENN-TUBE fits this perfectly. As the original patented design, I found its reliability unquestionable, particularly because it handles multiple ball types seamlessly. While often associated with tennis, I wanted to see how this robust, high-capacity tube performed strictly for dedicated pickleball practice.

Key Specifications:
– Capacity: 20 balls (mixed sizes) / High capacity for pickleball
– Length: 46.5 inches (one of the tallest)
– Design: Original patented TENN-TUBE
– Sold As: 4 Pack

Performance & Features (What I Found):
This tube is massive, and at 46.5 inches, it is fantastic for very tall players (6’4”+). The TENN-TUBE’s original design means the intake mechanism is incredibly reliable, and it grabbed pickleballs with authoritative ease. The capacity is excellent—I could comfortably fit over 20 standard pickleballs in my testing, minimizing interruptions. Because it comes in a 4-pack, I highly recommend this for facilities or groups. It weighs only 1.3 lbs when empty, which is remarkable for its size.

Strengths
The sheer volume capacity is unmatched, and the extra length is a huge relief for extremely tall players. I found the overall construction extremely light yet durable, holding up to commercial-level use.

Limitations
This comes exclusively in a 4-pack, which is overkill for an individual player and drives up the initial cost compared to buying a single unit. It also lacks a dedicated strap or fence hook, as it’s designed mainly to be an in-hand retrieval tool.

Ideal For: I found this Tourna 4-pack absolutely ideal for pickleball club owners, coaches running large clinics, or institutions that need a high quantity of robust, high-capacity ball collectors for group lessons and extensive training.

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Comparison Insight: Budget, Mid-Range, and Premium Performance

When I look across these seven models, the key differences often boil down to capacity versus portability, which usually dictates the price.

The budget-friendly options, like the single Pickleball Picker Upper (14 balls) and the Franklin (12 balls), are fantastic entry points. The Franklin excels because I found it the best solution for court-side organization due to its integrated hook, while the generic picker upper is noticeably lighter. Both are ideal for recreational players.

Moving into the mid-range, I find the SELMOR and the Lomccian tubes. These offer the coveted 17-ball capacity and crucial adjustable lengths, making them much more versatile for different players and training styles. I rate the Lomccian slightly higher for premium feel and warranty confidence, while the SELMOR offers easier breakdown.

Finally, the premium/specialty options are the GoSports and the Tourna tubes. The Tourna 17-ball is the gold standard for pure, uninterrupted, fixed-length performance and legendary durability, which is essential for advanced daily drillers. The GoSports, while mid-capacity (14 balls), charges a bit more because of its unique two-piece collapsible design, which I found invaluable for tight storage and transport. The Tourna 4-Pack is in a league of its own, aimed squarely at commercial use where bulk capacity and maximum length are non-negotiable.

What I Look for When Buying Pickleball Tube Ball Pickup

Having tested dozens of these devices over the years, I’ve developed a checklist for evaluating performance. I want a tool that disappears in my hand, meaning it doesn’t interrupt my focus on the game.

Key Features I Evaluate and Specifications I Consider

When I assess a new pickleball tube ball pickup, I look beyond the capacity number. The quality of the intake mechanism is paramount.

• Intake Mechanism Reliability: I check how seamlessly the tube grips and retains both indoor and outdoor balls. A poor mechanism means repeated bending when the ball pops out—the very thing we are trying to avoid. I look for thick, pliable end caps that retain their shape over time.
• Capacity vs. Weight: A 17-ball capacity is great, but if the material is too heavy, the fully loaded tube becomes cumbersome. I prioritize tubes that use lightweight composites but maintain rigid structure.
• Length and Ergonomics: For me, being tall, I need tubes over 40 inches. If you’re shorter, I strongly consider the adjustable or modular options (like SELMOR or Lomccian) to ensure zero back strain. I also check the handle comfort—especially important if you’re using it for hundreds of repetitions.

Performance Factors That I’ve Found Matter Most

The true test happens on the court, not in the specifications list. I focus on three core performance areas:

• Speed and Consistency of Pickup: Can I glide the tube over the balls without stopping or adjusting? The best models allow for a fluid, almost continuous motion during retrieval.
• Spillage Prevention: Once the balls are inside, do they stay there? Tubes need secure closures (rubber bands, bungee cords, or reliable internal retention systems) to prevent frustrating spills during transport or aggressive movement.
• Durability in Heat and Cold: I test these tubes in both extreme summer heat (which can soften plastic) and cold weather. High-quality materials resist becoming brittle in cold or warping in heat, ensuring long-term structural integrity.

Types Explained

When you shop for a pickleball tube ball pickup, you’re generally choosing between fixed, modular, or dual-purpose designs. I found each type caters to very distinct player needs.

Different Categories Available

The primary type is the Fixed-Length Tube (like the Tourna 17-Ball), which prioritizes maximum durability and simplicity. Then we have Modular/Adjustable Tubes (like SELMOR and Lomccian), which offer versatility in length but sometimes have slightly weaker connection points. Finally, there are Collapsible Tubes (like GoSports), designed specifically for travelers needing compact storage.

Which Type I Recommend for Different Playing Styles

For aggressive players and coaches who spend 5+ hours a week drilling, I always recommend the Fixed-Length, High-Capacity tubes because they hold up best to constant abuse and rapid movement. For the weekend warrior or the player with a small car, the Collapsible GoSports tube is indispensable. If your household has players of varying heights, the Modular options are your best bet for shared equipment.

My Thoughts on Skill Level and Budget Considerations

If you’re a beginner focused on minimal practice, a reliable 12-ball capacity tube like the Franklin will serve you well without overspending. As you move into intermediate and advanced levels, however, your practice volume skyrockets. I strongly encourage intermediate players to invest in a 17-ball capacity model to truly maximize drill efficiency. Premium models are worth it for the material quality and superior intake mechanism consistency that stands up to year-round training.

Final Verdict

Having tested these extensively on the court, I can confidently say that finding the right pickleball tube ball pickup drastically changes the quality of your practice time. Whether you prioritize capacity, portability, or adjustable length, there is an outstanding option here. I noticed a clear hierarchy: the most reliable pickups are simple and rigid, while the most portable are those designed to break down.

If you are a serious player who drills constantly, my top recommendation for sheer performance and durability is the Tourna Pickleball Pickup Tube (17 Balls); its proprietary intake mechanism is unmatched in consistent ball retrieval. For the best blend of capacity and versatility, I found the Lomccian tube to be an exceptional value, especially considering its adjustable length and strong warranty. And if you frequently travel or have limited storage, the innovative GoSports two-piece design is simply the smartest option.

Recommendations By Budget Level

• Budget (Under $25): The Pickleball Picker Upper Ball Holder offers necessary lightweight function and 14-ball capacity without breaking the bank.
• Mid-Range ($25-$35): The SELMOR 17 Balls Pickleball Ball Retriever provides excellent modularity and high capacity, making it the most flexible choice.
• Premium/High-Volume: The Tourna Pickleball Pickup Tube is the benchmark for speed and durability, ideal for coaches or advanced daily players.

Recommendations By Skill Level

• Beginner: I recommend the Franklin Sports Pickleball Retriever Tube because its integrated fence hook encourages good court organization right from the start.
• Intermediate: Go straight for a high-capacity unit like the Lomccian Pickleball Ball Retriever to accommodate increasing drill volume and provide custom height adjustments.
• Advanced/Coach: The Tourna All Ball Universal Ball Pickup (4 Pack) is unbeatable for its massive length and high volume needs required for teaching large clinics.

Your Pickleball Tube Ball Pickup Questions Answered

How Do I Choose the Right Pickleball Tube Ball Pickup Capacity for My Needs?

When I evaluate capacity, I consider the purpose of the pickup. For casual play, a 12-ball tube is plenty. However, if you are running serving drills or third-shot drop practice, you need 16 or 17 balls to maintain flow. Coaches and heavy drillers should aim for the highest capacity available (17+ balls) to maximize time spent hitting and minimize bending.

Are Fixed-Length or Adjustable Pickleball Ball Retrievers More Durable?

In my experience, fixed-length retrievers (like the Tourna 17-Ball) tend to be marginally more durable over years of aggressive use because they lack connection points that could potentially loosen or fail. However, modern adjustable and modular tubes (like the SELMOR and Lomccian) have significantly improved their locking mechanisms, making them reliable enough for most recreational and intermediate players.

Does the Length of the Ball Pickup Tube Really Matter for Back Strain?

Absolutely. I found that tubes that are too short force an unnecessary forward hunch. For players 6 feet and taller, I strongly recommend seeking out tubes that are 40 inches or longer, or those that are modular and can be extended comfortably. This adjustment ensures that you can retrieve balls while standing nearly straight, completely eliminating the primary cause of back fatigue during practice cleanup.

How Does Weather Affect the Functionality of the Pickup Tube?

I have tested these in extreme conditions, and I noticed that very cold weather can stiffen the plastic entry cap, making it slightly harder to grab the ball without deliberate force. Conversely, extreme heat can sometimes soften very cheap plastics. High-quality tubes built from robust composites (like the Lomccian or Tourna models) maintain their material integrity and pliable intake mechanism across a wider temperature range.

Can I Use a Tennis Ball Retriever for Pickleball, and Is the Intake Mechanism Different?

While many tennis tubes can pick up pickleballs (the GoSports is a great example), the intake mechanism diameter is often optimized for the slightly larger tennis ball. This can occasionally lead to a pickleball falling out of a strictly tennis-focused tube. I recommend choosing a tube explicitly designed or optimized for pickleballs, as they ensure a tighter fit and better retention.