Every pickleball player has had the argument. The score is 7-5, or maybe 8-4, and the next five minutes get spent replaying the last three points. A score tracker takes that problem off the table. If you play a couple of times a week and lose the score even once a session, a tracker pays for itself in peace of mind. Here are the main options, with the honest tradeoffs of each.
Wristband score keepers
The classic. You slide beads or click a dial on a band around your wrist. Pros: cheap, usually under ten dollars, and always with you. Cons: it is one more thing on your wrist next to a watch or sweatband, and it is easy to forget to advance it after a good rally.
Phone apps
Plenty of free apps let you tap the score after each rally. Pros: no extra hardware, and some keep match history. Cons: your phone has to sit courtside with the screen on, and unlocking it after every point breaks the flow of the game. Battery and notifications get in the way too.
Chalkboard or paper
Some rec groups keep a small whiteboard on the fence. Pros: everyone can see it. Cons: someone has to walk over and update it, and it only works when there is a spare board and a marker around.
Score keepers that mount on the paddle
A newer option. A small mechanical counter attaches to the butt end of your paddle handle, with a dial for each side. Pros: one click per point, both scores visible at a glance, nothing to wear and nothing to charge. Cons: there are not many products in this category yet, so read reviews before you buy.
How to pick one
Match the tracker to your weak point:
- If you forget to update the score, pick the one with the fewest steps between rallies.
- If you rotate partners, pick one that shows both scores clearly so everyone trusts it.
- If you just want it to work, skip anything that needs charging or an app.
The easy route
The Rally Tally is a mechanical score keeper that sticks on the end of your paddle handle. It keeps both scores right where you are already looking, so there is nothing to forget, charge, or wear. One click when your side scores, one click when they do, and the argument never starts. It is $15 each or 2 for $20 with free shipping at rallytallypickleball.com.