Are you searching for the best portable basketball hoops? Not sure which one is the best of them all? Need someone to help you make a wise decision?
Hi, I’m Ivan and I’m simply crazy about the beautiful game of basketball. My passion started when I was 8 years old when I saw my first NBA game (Finals, game 6, Sonics vs Bulls).
Shortly after, my father made a hoop for me and my older bro. Needles to say, I was instantly super-glued to my new toy. And 25 years later, this passion still burns inside.
So if you are looking to buy a hoop for your home, I can help…
I’ve researched and compared over 100 outdoor portable basketball hoops on Amazon and other places online to create this ultimate list.
That said, let’s help you pick the best portable basketball hoop for your driveway or any other place in your home. Here are the best hoops I’ve reviewed…
| #1 Spalding The Beast (Best Overall) |
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| BOTTOM LINE If you are looking for the best hoop for dunking that’s going to last forever, this premium model is your best choice. Spalding The Beast portable hoop is as good as it gets for driveway hoops, with tempered glass backboards, heavy-duty steel frame and easily adjustable rim (7.5-10ft). |
| PRICE Varies from $1,449 to $2,799. |
| PROS Super sturdy system. The glass backboard provides the best rebound. The backboard comes in two sizes. Adjustable height, a professional rim for dunking, and a large base offer maximum basketball experience. |
| CONS Expensive, and heavy model. |
| GET MORE INFO or  |
| #2 Silverback NXT (Editor’s Pick) |
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| BOTTOM LINE If the Beast is out of your price range, NXT is the best alternative for you. Another great choice for portable hoops for both kids and adults, the Silverback NXT features a sturdy backboard, a height-adjustable rim, and a specially sloped base for added stability. |
| PRICE Varies from $450 to $880. |
| PROS Angled braces and a sloped base provide minimal shaking. Has a height adjustment mechanism (7.5-10ft), and the ErgoMove base for easy transport. Pro rim can take dunks! |
| CONS Low-quality rebound action. |
| GET MORE INFO or |
| #3 Spalding Hybrid (Editor’s Pick Runner-Up) |
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| BOTTOM LINE If you’re a Spalding fan, Hybrid is a great alternative to the Beast that fits every budget. This portable hoop for kids and adults is solidly built and easy to set up, with Screw-Jack height adjustment (7.5-10ft) and a unique system using sand and water to weigh down the base. |
| PRICE Varies from $500 to $1000 |
| PROS The unique base is easier to fill than other portable hoops. Easily transportable. An acrylic backboard is a good alternative to glass. Pro breakaway rim can take dunks! |
| CONS Lower-quality rebound action. |
| GET MORE INFO or |
| #4 Lifetime 71524 XL (Best For Low Prices) |
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| BOTTOM LINE If you are looking for a budget-friendly alternative to the hoops above, Lifetime XL is for you. Sometimes on sale for under $500, this Lifetime model is a great value. It shakes much less than cheaper portable hoops and features adjustable height and a breakaway rim like higher-priced competitors. |
| PRICE Varies from $500 to $800 |
| PROS Low price and overall good value. A medium-sized base provides decent stability with minimal shaking. The pro-style breakaway rim adjusts from 7.5-10ft and is good for dunking! |
| CONS The system is less sturdy than pricier models. |
| GET MORE INFO or |
| #5 Lifetime Pro Court (Best Entry Level Hoop) |
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| BOTTOM LINE If you are looking for a starter hoop for you or your kids that’s not going to cost you an arm and leg, you should go with Pro Court! This is one of the most sought after portable hoops for the driveway. It’s made of good-quality materials and has a telescopic height adjustment mechanism. |
| PRICE Only $230! |
| PROS The acrylic backboard is practically unbreakable. Medium-level rebound action. The rim is adjustable from 7.5 to 10 feet. Light-weight. Easy transport from A to B. |
| CONS Small backboard size. Weaker rim. |
| GET MORE INFO or |
What To Look For & How To Choose The Best Portable Hoop for You?
To help you decide which portable basketball hoop is best for you, I recommend reading this short guide below first…
Location
A crucial aspect to take into consideration before acquiring your basketball system is its place. Here are the most popular locations:
- backyard
- driveway
- street
Without a doubt, the best place for a portable basketball hoop is in a driveway. Just keep in mind that you want a minimum of 10 feet of concrete in front of your hoop. 15 feet would be ideal.
On the other hand, if you have an ample budget and space and are looking to take your basketball experience to the next level, you may consider building a full-size court in your backyard.
Lastly, the street would be another good location for your portable goal. However, for security factors, it is not recommended to position a hoop where there is a danger of being hit by oncoming traffic.
Backboard Size & Material
Once you have settled on the location, it’s time to determine the material for the backboard and the size to accommodate your style.
Sizes go from small 32″ to regulation 72″. A good midway point for a standard two-car driveway would be 54″.
Once you have the size in mind, you can choose between three types of backboard material:
- Polycarbonate is usually used for the cheapest hoops. It’s almost unbreakable and is going to last for years. However, the big disadvantage of this material is that the rebound effect is poor.
- Acrylic backboards are a guaranteed step up from cheap backboards. Sadly, acrylic is a really soft product (prone to damage). On the bright side, the rebound effect in acrylic backboard is much better than the one in polycarbonate.
- Tempered glass is the material made use of in all professional hoops all over the globe. With this type of backboard material, you get the most effective playing experience by far. The rebound effect compliments your bank shots and layups perfectly!
If you want the best basketball experience, a portable hoop with a tempered glass backboard should be your choice. But if you have a little hoopster who is just getting interested, polycarbonate will do fine.
Standard, or Pro Rim
Before you get a portable basketball goal, you need to think about the rim and how you and other players will treat it.
That said, most hoops come with two different types of rims:
- Standard rim – This type of rim doesn’t have springs. It is great for kids and beginners but can break easily if you hang on it.
- Breakaway rim – This type of rim has professional-grade springs connected to the backboard. Dunk as hard as you can!
If you are a dunker who likes to attack the time, you need a professional rim. But if the hoop is for kids or casual players, a standard rim will suffice.
Height Adjustment Mechanism
While some portable basketball hoops are made for shorter, youngster-friendly heights, the majority can be elevated from 7.5 feet to the regulation height of 10 feet.
Your greatest advantage of height modification is having a hoop that grows with the player. So if you are looking to get a portable system for your kids, you will love this feature.
All models on my list come equipped with this feature!
Base and Overall Stability
The support pole of your future hoop plays a huge role in both safety and overall hooping experience. The rule of thumb is that the thicker the pole, the higher the stability of your goal.
You will notice that cheaper portable basketball hoops have a weak support pole. These goals are generally made for young hoopsters or casual players who need a hoop to practice their skills.
On the other hand, high-end hoops come with a 4″ thick alloy steel pole. These systems can take the action even if you are a hard-core player.
Age of Players and Your Budget
Lastly, when searching for a basketball system, you need to adjust the goal to your budget and the age of the players.
If you are an adult looking for a pro-style portable basketball hoop for your driveway, you should be ready to spend the top dollar.
On the other hand, if you are a casual player, or are getting a starter system for your little hoopsters, I have some great suggestions on my list of the best portable basketball goals!
Now that you know what kind of a hoop you want, here are my top picks…
5 Best Portable Basketball Hoops Reviewed
#1 Spalding The Beast (Best Overall)
With simply a glance, you’ll take in the toughened-up glass backboard, large 50-gallon base, solid building, and 1-piece square pole, top quality wheel system, and Pro rim, all of which shows toughness, top quality, and why this hoop is the best one in the portable category!
That said, there isn’t a mobile basketball system available that can take on The Beast, so read on if you dare.
| Backboard Size | 54″ or 60″ |
| Backboard Material | Tempered glass |
| Rim Quality | Steel Pro breakaway rim |
| Support Pole | 4-inch steel pole |
| Base System | 50-gallon base |
| Height Adjustment | 7.5 – 10 feet |
| Overall Rating | 🏀🏀🏀🏀🏀 |
| Price | $1,449 – $2,799 Check Price |
Backboard & Rim
The backboard is made of tempered glass. This is really the very best sort of material for a basketball system. It is available in 2 dimensions; 54 ″ as well as 60 ″.
Furthermore, the backboard is supported by an H-shaped structure. You will notice two vertical poles and one horizontal pole holding the backboard for optimum security.
Taking into consideration the price of this model, it’s not a surprise that it includes a Steel Pro breakaway rim. Moreover, it’s constructed of two springs for the ultimate performance.
Therefore, you’ll quickly discover the difference in how this rim performs compared to the goals you’ll find at your local basketball court.
So, if you are a dunker, this hoop will get the job done without breaking or being harmed.
Support Pole & Base
Spalding took their layout to the next level with this model.
Their style has a hefty emphasis on security. You will notice that a 4-inch steel support post is angled from the backboard to the back of the base.
This type of angling is important for the optimum security of players. Also, it dramatically limits the possibility of the hoop tipping over by providing ingenious weight distribution.
Furthermore, this model also features one of the largest base systems I have ever seen on portable basketball hoops. You can store 50 gallons of water or sand in it!
So, if you are looking for a super-stable mobile basketball system, this one will definitely do the trick.
The base is also furnished with a set of rollers. That said, moving your goal will be an easy task.
Height Adjustability
The other thing that I love about this portable basketball system is its telescopic support post.
This pole provides you with limitless elevations between 7.5 and 10 feet placing it among the very best mobile basketball goals for avid players who want to play pick-up games or just practice.
Spalding offers a lot more bang for bucks by equipping this hoop with a screw jack height change system. You will have no problem changing the height anytime you want.
User Reviews
“If I could give it 6 stars I would. Great product. I have owned it for almost a year and enjoyed every moment of shooting hoops in the backyard with my son. Assembly is tough and all the comments about the time it takes and needing multiple people are true. Make sure to sand and oil the inside of the bottom pole and the outside of the top pole before connecting them. Otherwise, it can be difficult to get the full overlap.“
“Spalding customer service is great. The glass shattered but stayed in place after about 11 months of use. Spalding replaced glass under warranty (5 years) and shipped new glass within 4 days. Make sure the nuts and bolts are always tight on the rims.“
#2 Silverback NXT (Editor’s Pick)
While they can’t quite compete with major brand names such as Spalding, they do have a propensity for creating uniquely made portable basketball hoops that use a different take on performance.
That said, if the previous model is not your choice, you should check out the Silverback NXT. It costs half as much, but it is almost as good as the main competitors.
| Backboard Size | 50″ or 54″ |
| Backboard Material | Polycarbonate |
| Rim | Single-spring breakaway rim |
| Support Pole | Stabili-Frame steel-on-steel pole |
| Base | 35-gallon base |
| Height Adjustment | 7.5 – 10 feet |
| Overall Rating | 🏀🏀🏀🏀 |
| Price | $450 – $880 Check Price |
Backboard & Rim
This model has a polycarbonate backboard on offer. You can pick between 50″ or 54″ widths, which is not big, but it’s good enough for your standard two-car driveway.
One of the sturdiness of this system is the design of the backboard. Assistance braces reach all 4 edges of the backboard, making an X form.
Due to this special design, you will notice that the backboard system is super-stable. Moreover, it actually has exceptional performance compared to the H-shaped backboard systems.
That said, this backboard style will definitely provide you with excellent rebound action from all angles.
Furthermore, this goal has a semi-covered breakaway rim. It includes a single spring for breakaway support. This rim is good for your shooting practices, and soft games.
Nonetheless, slam dunkers will certainly need to take it easy. Unlike the previous model, this rim is on the weaker side of the scale.
So be careful when dunking the ball, and avoid hanging on it for your own safety.
Support Pole & Base
Amongst the best features of this model is its back strength.
These portable hoops are created with a steel frame that goes along the base upright right into the post that is fixed into the backboard.
Furthermore, the key pole is inclined to assist weight distribution. Inclination gives you more room under the hoop. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about slamming into the post.
At the bottom, the base holds up to 35 gallons of water, which is a little less than some rival hoops.
However, you will notice that the fill base is placed in the back, which offers more security to the hoop. In addition, the wheelbarrows on the base allow you to move your hoop easily when needed.
Height Adjustability
Attached to the pole is the elevation adjustment system. You can easily adjust the height from 7.5 to 10 feet, which is ordinary for portable basketball hoops in this price range.
The elevation can be changed in six-inch increments. This sort of variety modification is conventional, but greater priced designs allow the hoop to be readjusted making use of smaller increments.
User Reviews
“It’s a nice basketball goal (I use it constantly). There are two problems I have with it. One it’s SUPER LOUD when you hit the rim. I feel like I wake up the whole neighbourhood. Second, if you wish the shot it hits off the bottom and flies away from you.”
“The shipping was great on time and as described…The instructions were the best I have seen on goals in this price range…putting this goal together in about 2hrs with help of my son…would recommend it just because of the ease of installation….the backboard has a great bounce and is very sturdy…I like the feature of adding water to wheels and the base but need to add Rv antifreeze to keep the water from freezing when temps drop below 30…”
#3 Spalding Hybrid (Editor’s Pick Runner-Up)
This portable basketball hoop confirms that you can play aggressively in the driveway. This is due to the game-changing base system that I’ll explain below.
Overall, the Hybrid is very similar to the one above. And here are some of the advantages that come when you make the investment into this high-calibre portable system.
| Backboard Size | 54″ or 60″ |
| Backboard Material | Acrylic |
| Rim | Arena Slam one-spring rim |
| Support Pole | 3,5″ 3-piece steel pole |
| Base | 9-gallon + 200-pound base |
| Height Adjustment | 7.5 – 10 feet |
| Overall Rating | 🏀🏀🏀🏀 |
| Price | $499 – $999 Check Price |
Backboard & Rim
Spalding offers numerous different backboard designs for this model. These include 54″ and 60″ acrylic boards which are good mid-level backboards.
On the expensive end, there is a 54-inch glass backboard version that will certainly cost you a couple of hundred dollars more. But it is worth it if you prefer better rebound action.
Just like the previous model on my list, this one comes with Arena Slam breakaway rim. However, the difference between the two hoops is that this model’s rim is supported by one spring.
With this breakaway system, you’re likely to have the ability to dunk. However, hanging on the rim after dunking the ball is not advised.
Support Pole & Base
Featured on this hoop is a 3-piece support post. This implies that there are actually three pieces that are connected to each other to make the support system.
You will notice that 3-piece support posts are used on most portable basketball systems. As I said earlier, if you want maximum stability, you should look for models with a 2-piece or even a 1-piece post.
Furthermore, this hoop features a 16-inch offset, making it less likely for you to hit on the pole after a layup or dunk attempt.
Now let’s talk about the base. This portable basketball goal truly changed the game in terms of the fill base. On the Hybrid, you have 2 major compartments.
The very first compartment is the actual base. You can load it with up to 19 gallons of water.
The second area is in fact an area that has actually been “removed” from the base to ensure that you can put up to four 50-pound bags of play sand in the base (200 pounds in total!).
Height Adjustability
This portable system includes an elevation adjustment device between 7.5 and 10 feet with boundless modification, enabling you to have the right elevation for any player at any time.
User Reviews
“This hoop is awesome! I have had it for a few weeks and use it like once a day. Also, I had Amazon installation ($99) which was totally worth it! I looked and tracked prices for a couple of months…and I am glad I splurged for this hoop. There are several versions in the $250-$300 range that have polycarbonate backboards, but this acrylic is worth it for a little more money. I cannot wait till my kids are old enough to enjoy it with me!”
“We got this for our boys! They absolutely love it! It’s professional quality. Sturdy, easy to change the height. Great large backboard. Would absolutely RECOMMEND the professional assembly. We used it. And they did a FANTASTIC job.”
#4 Lifetime 71524 XL (Best For Low Prices)
Are you looking for the best portable basketball hoops? While this particular model is not the best one, it certainly ranks in the top 5 on my list.
Lifetime 71524 XL is tailor-made to improve your driveway basketball hooping experience. That said, it is a well-built mobile basketball goal that’s perfect for kids and even grown-ups.
| Backboard Size | 54″ |
| Backboard Material | Polycarbonate |
| Rim | 2-spring Slam-It Pro Rim |
| Support Pole | 3.5″ round steel pole |
| Base | 35-gallon base |
| Height Adjustment | 7.5 – 10 feet |
| Overall Rating | 🏀🏀🏀🏀 |
| Price | $499- $799 Check Price |
Backboard & Rim
This hoop comes with a 54-inch polycarbonate backboard. The dimension of this portable basketball system is sufficient for driveway games.
One of the things you will notice is that polycarbonate material is a pretty strong plastic that will be hard to damage. So if you want a hoop that’s going to last, this one is it.
On the other hand, this material and size don’t have the best rebound effect. Shooting bank shots will be hard to execute, and layups won’t be as perfect as on a glass or acrylic board.
But even so, this hoop will offer a great experience for you and your little ones.
What about the rim? Like most portable basketball hoops in this price range, this model features Slam-It Pro Rim with two compression springs.
Since the style of rim includes two springs, it is suitable for soft dunking. That said, you should avoid powerful slam dunks and if you are an adult, don’t hang on this rim.
You will also notice that the ball will bounce softer when firing from long range.
Support Pole & Base
This basketball system includes a ShatterGuard steel frame as well as a 3.5 inch round pole, and also integrated wheels for transportation. The pole is powder-coated and resistant to corrosion.
If you are worried about shaking, its 35 gallons base might relieve you of your worries. Just fill it up with water and enjoy this hoop.
You may notice that this is much less than on previous models. However, this is more than enough for casual basketball hoops in your driveway.
Height Adjustability
Power Lift Height Adjustment Mechanism allows you to easily adjust the hoop from 7.5 to 10 feet.
The mechanism system is quite easy to operate. You can bring it up and lower it down with two grip handles. Thus players of all ages and levels can enjoy basketball on their terms.
User Reviews
“I was concerned about spending so much but the value is clearly in this product. It’s very sturdy. The adjustment of heights is incredibly easy and seems very secure. The net has gone thru some abuse. The whole thing was left out in the ice storm and fell over with a big slam. I thought it would be shattered and the net pushed out of alignment… nope. We were finally able to get it out and it’s undamaged.”
“My two boys (ages 14 and 17) put it together. It took several hours but they figured it out and they love it!“
#5 Lifetime Pro Court (Best Entry Level Hoop)
If you are aiming to get the very first portable hoop for your youngsters, and you don’t want to invest a lot of money, the Pro Court 44″ is an excellent choice.
This is a really light system. The elevation is adjustable from 7.5 feet to 10 feet. Also, the material is durable and sufficient to endure the elements and wear and tear for several years.
| Backboard Size | 44″ |
| Backboard Material | Acrylic |
| Rim | Standard |
| Support Pole | 3-piece steel pole |
| Base | 27-gallon base |
| Height Adjustment | 7.5-10 feet |
| Overall Rating | 🏀🏀🏀🏀 |
| Price | $230 Check Price |
Backboard & Rim
The backboard is 44″ wide and made out of acrylic material. You will notice that this material is designed to hold up against hits and is completely unbreakable.
However, as you already know, this material takes away a lot of rebound action.
So, if you want to practice your backboard shots in your driveway, you will have to look at some of the best portable basketball hoops from the top of my list.
Rim-wise, this hoop comes with an 18-Inch black solid steel rim with steel braces. The Lifetime rim is best for shooting practices and casual basketball games with your little hoopsters.
Support Pole & Base
The post consists of 3 parts, which isn’t the strongest construction. However, it is strong enough to hold the backboard in position without way too much wobble.
Furthermore, the base can hold up to 27 gallons of water. This will not allow grownups to dunk or hang on the hoop although a lighter game will be completely okay.
The wheels of the base make moving this hoop from point A to point B less complicated. However, it is not as easy as a few other models with a wheelbarrow design.
Height Adjustability
A benefit of the three-piece portable system is the height adjustability. It can vary from 7.5 to 10 feet all done by the push of a handle at the back of the assistance pole.
User Reviews
“Purchased this item for my kids 9 and 6 and it works great. I find myself also shooting around with them. The build time took my husband about an hour. The only time he needed help from me was to attach the headboard to the pole. It seemed easiest to do this when the hoop laying on the ground, as opposed to it standing. Great deal for a nice hoop for the driveway!”
“Relatively easy to build. The app video is very helpful. Definitely need 2 people to build it. Word of advice … set it at the height you want the pole from the beginning rather than waiting until after you’ve completely built it. Sturdy product.”
Which Portable Basketball Goal Do I Recommend For Your Driveway?
If you are a grown-up man or woman who is looking for the best portable hoop for your driveway or backyard, Spalding the Beast is the winner.
There is simply no competition for this hoop…
It’s got everything you are looking for in a basketball system.
In other words, it’s made of high-quality material, can take a lot of use and abuse, offers a pro-level ball performance, and is perfect for any driveway.
Alternatively, if The Beast is out of your price range, you will be super-happy with Silverback NXT as well. In fact, this hoop is my #1 pick!
Its construction is almost as good as Spalding’s, and you can definitely abuse it as well.
On the other hand, if you are searching for well-made and budget-friendly portable basketball hoops for your little ones, you should definitely go with the Lifetime Pro Court system.
Your youngsters will definitely have a great time with this goal and so should you!
Which one do you choose? Feel free to reach out below in case you want to talk some more!
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We have been working on a little start-up a bunch of friends. But we are sometimes wishing a break to have a basketball match in between working sessions. However, the basketball court is about 20 blocks away. So, we have only gone twice. Getting a portable basketball hoop would be excellent. We play hard, so Hybrid is perfect for us. Thanks for this list of options.
Hi Paolo, thanks for your comment! A portable hoop would be a great investment for you guys! There’s nothing better than to take a break from work and shoot some hoops with your buddies. It takes your mind away and recharges your energy level so you can work even better. Best of luck with your star up, and enjoy your new hoop!
I have found that unless your hoopster is willing and able to spend the time using the basketball goal then no matter what goal you buy will go to waste. Make certain that your hoopster is willing to spend the time to get the most use out of the goal you purchase. The goal that I believe to be the best buy for beginners is the NXT. It has a moderate price and will be good for all types of players.
Jerry
Hi Jerry, you are absolutely right! That’s why I have included a few entry-level hoops on this list as well. And I agree with you in saying that NXT is one of the best portable hoops for beginners! Enjoy and happy hooping 😊
Ivan
I was online looking for a basketball goal for our neighbourhood (it’s a circle and there are plenty of kids to use it). I did not realize there were so many choices. I don’t want to spend a fortune so some of them are out. If my limit is $500 tops, what would you recommend for just neighbourhood kids playing a little basketball?
Hi Leahrae! Thanks for your comment. I would recommend the Pro Court model (the last one on my list). It’s well under $500, but it is still pretty solid in terms of construction, and material, and is quite safe. The Lifetime model would also probably be the best choice because of the larger base (better stability).
Hope this helps 🙂
Ivan
I have been looking for a hoop for my grandchildren but could not decide which one to get. The 27-gallon water basketball hoop seems like a good fit for my grandchildren, I going to share your comparison with my family to get their opinion on which hoop to order and then place the order.
That’s a great choice, Jannette! 🙂
Nothing like getting advice from someone who has a passion for what he is doing. You have given some valuable insight into the buying of portable basketball hoops. These seem to be the craze in the world presently and so many people have become fans of this sport. Your comments are very helpful. There is so much variability in cost that it can be very hard to make the right choice. Is the exceptional quality worth 2,5 times the cost of one that is cheaper or do you give up too much in quality? I suppose the wide range of prices means that these are available to almost any budget, but a person does not want to have to buy this product once a year either.
Hey Toplink, I would say that investing 2,5 times more into a high-quality hoop is a good move.
A premium model will last for a decade (generally much longer!) due to high-quality materials and design. On the other hand, less expensive models tend to break frequently, which means that you have to invest $500 every few years into a new portable hoop.
So yea, if you are going to opt-in for a cheaper model, you are sacrificing lots in terms of quality.