Rally Scoring vs. Traditional Scoring in Pickleball: What’s the Difference?
Pickleball, the fast-paced paddle sport that continues to rapidly grow in popularity offers different scoring systems to choose from. Among these, rally scoring and traditional scoring (also known as side-out scoring) are the two primary methods used in both recreational and competitive play. But what exactly sets them apart? And how do these 2 different methods of scoring impact the flow of the game?
In this blog post, we’ll break down the key differences between rally scoring and traditional scoring in pickleball, highlighting the benefits of each to help you better understand how the game is played and scored. So, let's dive in to the difference between these 2 play formats.
What is Traditional Scoring in Pickleball?
Traditional scoring in pickleball, also called side-out scoring, follows a rule similar to that used in many other sports, like volleyball, before rally scoring took over. This is the standard method of scoring in most pickleball games.

In traditional or side-out scoring:
- Points are earned only for serving team meaning that only the team serving can score points.
- When a team serves and wins the rally, they score a point and get to serve again.
- If the receiving team wins the rally, they win the serve, but no points are awarded until they also win a rally on their serve.
- In traditional scoring, the first team to reach 11 points wins the game. Games are typically played with a 2-point margin, meaning a team must be leading by at least 2 points in order to win.
- If the serving team loses a rally, they give up the serve, but no points are lost. Often called a side-out and the other team gets to serve.
- Longer rallies for serving teams: Serving teams need to maintain control and win rallies to keep scoring.
Traditional scoring emphasizes the serving team’s strategy to maintain serve. Serves can help teams win points consistently, which can be a major advantage.
What is Rally Scoring in Pickleball?
Rally scoring is a more modern system and has been introduced in some pickleball tournaments to speed up the game and keep things more exciting.
In rally scoring:
- Points are earned by both teams: Teams can score points, regardless of who serves.
- Every time a rally is completed, a point is awarded to one of the teams.
- The team that wins the rally, whether serving or receiving, scores a point.
- In Rally scoring, matches are often played to first to 15 points.
- Faster-paced games: With no side-outs and more points being scored, matches are typically shorter.
This system is particularly useful for making games faster and more exciting, since there’s no downtime where teams just “trade serves” without scoring. Under rally scoring, consistent scoring keeps the action high-energy and both teams have equal opportunity to score.
So are there advantages to each form of scoring? Let's review.
Advantages of Traditional Scoring:
- Strategic Importance of Serving: Serving is a key aspect of the game under traditional scoring, where winning serves is often a major part of a team’s strategy.
- Slower Pace for Beginners: Some beginners prefer the traditional system because it allows for longer rallies and more time to adjust to the game.
- Keeps the Game Familiar: For those used to the traditional side-out method (from other sports), it can be a comfortable way to play and get used to scoring.
Advantages of Rally Scoring:
- Faster Matches: With a point awarded on every rally, games tend to be shorter and more dynamic.
- Increased Excitement: Both teams can score at any time, creating constant action and keeping spectators engaged.
- Balanced Play: Rally scoring reduces the impact of the serve on the outcome, making the game feel more even for both sides.
- Better for Tournaments: Rally scoring is easier to keep track of in larger tournaments, where efficiency and time are important factors.

With PicklePlay's popular League/Round Robin format, you can choose which play format you wish to use based on the type of tournament or play you want, giving you the option to choose. Want to learn more about League and Round Robin options on PicklePlay? Click here to learn more about club package options. You can also click here to learn more about running a scramble ladder league on PicklePlay and here to run a round robin tournament.
Conclusion: Which One Is Best?
In the end, both systems have their merits, and the choice between rally scoring and traditional scoring ultimately depends on your goals for the game. Rally scoring is faster, more exciting, and tends to make the matches more even. Traditional scoring, however, can provide a more strategic and relaxed pace for players who enjoy the mental challenge of holding onto the serve.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding both scoring systems will make you more versatile and ready to play in any situation. So, the next time you step onto the court, you’ll know exactly what to expect — and how to adapt your strategy for whichever system is in play!
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