KanJam has been a backyard staple for years. PaddleSmash is the newer game that's been turning heads on Shark Tank, Good Morning America, and the Today Show. Both are portable, both are built for 2v2, and both have passionate fans. But they're very different games — and the right choice depends entirely on what you're looking for.
Here's the full honest comparison.
Quick Answer: PaddleSmash vs KanJam
PaddleSmash uses pickleball paddles and a roundnet-style court — it's fast, rally-based, and great for 3 to 4 players of all skill levels. KanJam uses a flying disc thrown at cylindrical goals — it's simpler to set up, cheaper, and great for 2v2 frisbee fans. If you want active back-and-forth rallies, PaddleSmash wins. If you want a casual throwing game that anyone can jump into instantly, KanJam is a solid pick.
Side-by-Side Comparison
|
Feature |
PaddleSmash |
KanJam |
|
Equipment |
Paddles + pickleball + hexagonal court |
Flying disc + 2 cylindrical goals |
|
Players |
3–4 (2v2 optimal) |
4 (2v2) |
|
Learning curve |
Low |
Very low |
|
Play style |
Rally-based, back and forth |
Throwing and deflecting |
|
Portable |
Yes — court is its own case |
Yes — lightweight and compact |
|
Price |
$199.99 (Complete Set) |
~$40–$50 |
|
Best for |
Active players, families, pickleball fans |
Casual gatherings, frisbee fans |
|
As seen on |
Shark Tank, GMA, Today Show |
Established backyard classic |
|
Ages |
14+ |
11+ |
What Is PaddleSmash?
PaddleSmash is an outdoor paddle game that combines pickleball paddles with a roundnet-style hexagonal court. Teams use paddles to hit a pickleball onto the court so it bounces over the angled net — the other team then gets up to 3 alternating hits to return it, and both teammates must touch the ball. Games go to 11 points, win by 2.
It was invented by Joe Bingham, a structural engineer and father of seven, and has been featured on Shark Tank (Season 15), Good Morning America, the Today Show and The View. Available at paddlesmash.com, Amazon, and Scheels.
What Is KanJam?
KanJam is a flying disc game created in Buffalo, NY, where two teams of two take turns throwing and deflecting a frisbee at cylindrical goals placed 50 feet apart. The goal is to hit the kan, get the disc inside through the top, or score an instant win by slotting it through a small opening on the front. Games go to 21 points — or end immediately with an instant win slot shot.
KanJam has been around since the 1990s and is one of the most popular backyard games in America. It's affordable, easy to explain, and genuinely fun for all ages.
The Biggest Difference: Rally vs. Throw
This is the core split between the two games.
PaddleSmash is a rally game — the ball goes back and forth, teammates work together to bump, set, and smash, and every point involves multiple hits from both sides. It's more active, more physical, and more dynamic. Think of it as a sport you play with your opponent.
KanJam is a throwing game — one player throws, one player deflects, and the other team watches until it's their turn. There's less continuous action, but more emphasis on skill and precision with the disc. It's a great game to play against your opponent.
Neither is better — they're just different experiences.
Which Is Easier to Learn?
Both are beginner-friendly, but KanJam edges out PaddleSmash here. You can explain KanJam in about 30 seconds and start scoring points almost immediately. The rules are simple: throw the disc, deflect it, hit the kan.
PaddleSmash takes 10 to 15 minutes to get comfortable with — learning the serve mechanics, the bounce off the hard base, and coordinating with your teammate. Still very accessible, but KanJam is the faster out-of-the-box experience.
Which Is More Active?
PaddleSmash by a wide margin. Because it's rally-based with both teams in continuous play, everyone is moving the whole time. KanJam involves taking turns, so there's more standing around between throws.
If your group wants a genuine workout alongside their fun, PaddleSmash is the better pick.
What About Price?
This is the biggest practical difference. KanJam runs about $40–$50 — it's one of the most affordable quality backyard games out there. PaddleSmash Complete Set is $199.99, which includes 4 paddles, 2 pickleballs, the hexagonal court with 6 support rods, and the net — all packing into the court itself as a carrying case.
If budget is the deciding factor, KanJam wins. If you're looking for a more immersive, equipment-rich experience, PaddleSmash justifies the price for regular outdoor players.
Which Is Better for a Mixed Group?
PaddleSmash — especially if your group includes people of different athletic abilities. The paddles level the playing field more than frisbee throwing, where arm strength and disc control can create big skill gaps. In PaddleSmash, a well-timed set can make a less athletic player just as valuable as a strong one.
FAQ
Is PaddleSmash better than KanJam? It depends on what you want. PaddleSmash is more active and rally-based. KanJam is simpler and cheaper. Both are great backyard games — they just deliver different experiences.
Can you play KanJam with 2 people? Technically yes, but KanJam is designed for 2v2 (4 players). PaddleSmash works well with 3 to 4 players.
Which game is better for a tailgate? Both are portable and great for tailgates. PaddleSmash brings more energy and continuous action. KanJam is quicker to set up and easier to explain to newcomers.
What's cheaper — PaddleSmash or KanJam? KanJam is significantly cheaper at $40–$50. PaddleSmash Complete Set is $199.99, though it includes paddles and more equipment in the box.
The Bottom Line
KanJam is a beloved classic for a reason — it's affordable, simple, and genuinely fun. PaddleSmash is the next evolution in backyard games — more active, more dynamic, and built for players who want something fresh.
If you already own KanJam and want to level up your backyard game collection, PaddleSmash is the natural next step.
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