Who doesn’t like basketball? It’s a great game to play on a relaxed Sunday evening with your friends and family or competitively with a group of friends. It is a versatile game that appeals to a wide variety of tastes and preferences. However, to truly play basketball, you need one large piece of equipment – a basketball hoop!
The thing is, installing a basketball hoop is not a viable option for most people. Not only is doing so troublesome and expensive, you might not have the space to make it happen. That’s why portable basketball hoops are such a brilliant invention. They are equally easy to put together and pack away. With a portable basketball hoop, you can play a proper game of b-ball anywhere, at any time!
We reviewed dozens of portable basketball hoops to identify the best of the best. In our review process, we looked at features such as durability, material, size, price, and ease of assembly.
The MARNUR Portable Basketball Hoop easily took our top spot as the best basketball hoop on the market. It features a heavy-duty basketball hoop that is adjustable from 6 feet 7 inches to 10 feet, so even the younger crowd can get in on the action. Its base is also extremely durable and steady.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Portable Basketball Hoops
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Portable Basketball Hoop Overall | MARNUR Portable Basketball Hoop | 4.2 |
| Best Adjustable Portable Basketball Hoop | Lifetime 51550 48 Inch Portable Basketball Hoop | 4.2 |
| Best Budget Portable Basketball Hoop | SKLZ Pro Basketball Hoop System | 4.3 |
| Best Portable Basketball Hoop With a Large Backboard | Spalding NBA Portable Basketball System with 60" Acrylic Backboard | 4.3 |
| Best Portable Basketball Hoop for Kids | Lifetime Youth Basketball Hoop | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Portable Basketball Hoop Overall: MARNUR Portable Basketball Hoop
With the versatility of an adjustable pole, the MARNUR Portable Basketball Hoop is a great choice whether you’re a competitive basketball player who wants to practice your jump shot, a child who enjoys playing in the afternoon, or simply a relaxed player that enjoys a fun weekend game. If you’re too short to play with a full-sized basketball hoop, you can simply adjust this one to be smaller. This is particularly useful in larger families where multiple people might play with the basketball hoop at different times.
This portable basketball hoops boasts no shortage of features. For starters, it features a high-strength PE extra-large base with a triangle support bar design that ensures the hoop will stay upright. It is also exceedingly durable, with a rust-proof pole and a large polyvinyl chloride (PVC) 44.1-inch backboard that allows for great rebounds. In addition, it’s easy to transport thanks to its wheeled base, and can either be filled with sand or water.
Customers love how well made and versatile for all ages this hoop is. They’re also impressed by its durability, easy set up, and relatively low price. If you want to see what all the fuss is about, we highly-recommend trying it out for yourself!
MARNUR Portable Basketball Hoop Key Features:
- Large polyvinyl chloride (PVC) backboard
- Adjustable from 6 feet 7 inches to 10 feet
- High-strength PE extra-large base
- Wheeled base
Best Adjustable Portable Basketball Hoop: Lifetime 51550 48-Inch Portable Basketball Hoop
The all-weather resistant Lifetime 51550 48 Inch Portable Basketball Hoop is our pick of adjustable portable basketball hoops for a number of reasons. For starters, it can be easily adjusted from 8 to 10 feet in 6-inch increments. It features a 48-inch Shatterproof Fusion backboard that’s constructed from high-density polycarbonate, which gives it superior strength and durability. As an added bonus, the backboard is fade-resistant, so you can expect it to keep its good looks for longer.
The base itself is heavy duty and requires no concrete to stay in place. Meanwhile, the rim boasts double-compression springs to allow for spring-back actions. This option can also withstand rough playing and weather, which is yet another testament to its high-quality construction. You’ll also be pleased to learn this basketball hoop comes with a 5-year warranty.
One of the things that held this hoop back from our top pick position is the fact that it’s not slanted. This prevents you from playing underneath it and practicing some of the skills necessary to play competitive basketball. If you’re looking for a hoop to practice with for a competitive sport, you should choose our top pick instead. However, if you’re just looking for one to play with in the driveway with your friends, this is a great option. Customers also reported set up was a bit tricky, so it’s ideal if you have someone else to help you get it up and running.
Lifetime 51550 48-Inch Portable Basketball Hoop Key Features:
- 48-inch shatterproof backboard
- All weather-resistant
- Requires no concrete
- Adjustable pole
Best Budget Portable Basketball Hoop: SKLZ Pro Basketball Hoop System
This extremely versatile, but inexpensive portable basketball hoop really lets you play basketball anytime, anywhere. The SKLZ Pro Basketball Hoop System is adjustable from 3.5 to 7 feet, which makes this basketball hoop playable indoors, outdoors, poolside, and courtside. It even has wheels and a mobile base to allow you to move it where ever you want to play. At 7 feet, it makes a great hoop for adults looking for a fun game. At 3.5 feet, however, it is perfect for children or playing by the pool! If you’re looking for a basketball hoop that adjusts to your needs and allows you to play anywhere, you could think of, this is the one to get.
Customers loved that this basketball hoop comes with a breakaway rim. Now, you can practice your dunks without having to worry about breaking the rim. Instead, when this rim is pulled down, a specially designed spring pops it back into place, allowing you to play continuously without having to constantly readjust the rim yourself. Plus, the all-weather net is extremely durable and is promised to hold up for years. The whole pole is also extremely durable and made with the roughness of kids in mind. With all of these eye-catching features, it’s hard to believe this hoop’s reasonable price tag!
SKLZ Pro Basketball Hoop System Key Features:
- Adjustable pole
- Breakaway Rim
- Ultra-durable
- Fills with sand and water
Best Portable Basketball Hoop With a Large Backboard: Spalding NBA Portable Basketball System with 60-Inch Acrylic Backboard
The Spalding NBA Portable Basketball System with 60-Inch Acrylic Backboard is a portable basketball hoop with a generously-sized backboard, that measures in at 60-inches x 34-inches. Made from acrylic, it features arena-style padding with a 16-inch offset and a steel board frame with an aluminum trim.
This portable basketball hoop can easily be adjusted from 7.5 feet to 10 feet. Other key features include its 3.5-inch round steel pole and wheeled base for easy transportation. As far as set-up goes, some customers have commented that it’s “definitely a two person job,” with one even recommending hiring a professional to help install it. Once it’s up, however, the Spalding NBA Portable Basketball System with 60-Inch Acrylic Backboard should provide the big and small basketballers in your life with precisely what they need to practice and play.
Spalding NBA Portable Basketball System with 60-Inch Acrylic Backboard Key Features:
- 60-inches x 34-inch acrylic backboard
- Adjustable height
- Holds both water and sand or gravel
- Breakaway Rim
Best Portable Basketball Hoop for Kids: Lifetime Youth Basketball Hoop
Just try not to be impressed by the flood of positive feedback customers have left for the Lifetime Youth Basketball Hoop. Take a look and you’ll see comments like “Works for us and our 10-year-old!” and “Easy set up.” So how accurate are they?
This portable basketball hoop for kids is made for trouble-free set up, and can easily be put together in no time. The telescoping height adjustment mechanism means that you’ll be able to adjust the height as your children grow. Specifically it can be changed in 6-inch increments from 5.5-inch to 7.5-inch.
Another draw card is that the parts are all built to last. Take the backboard, which is a 32-inch Youth Impact backboard with a 15-inch folding steel rim. It’s constructed from 0.5-inch of steel. The net is also made to withstand a variety of weather conditions, and the gallon base, which can be filled with either water or sand, is as sturdy as they come.
Lifetime Youth Basketball Hoop Key Features:
- 32-inch impact backboard
- Rust and weather-resistant
- 10-gallon base
- Easy setup
Who Should Buy a Portable Basketball Hoop
Basketball is an extremely fun game for the whole family. Nearly everyone of any age can play it, especially if you purchase an adjustable basketball hoop. The rules are also generally simple – you dribble the ball and try to throw it in the basket. The particularities, of course, are a lot more complicated, but with only a few simple instructions, any small child can easily pick up the ball and start playing.
If you’re looking for a fun game for your family, basketball can be a great active sport that everyone can enjoy together. Because there are not any complex rules or a lot of equipment needed, it is very easy for even younger children who have never played before to get involved. Basketball is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun, active activity to do outside with their friends and family. To play basketball though, you have to have a basketball hoop.
It’s not practical for most people or families to install a basketball hoop, so a portable basketball hoop is the perfect solution. A high-quality basketball hoop will last you for years to come and is one of the only pieces of equipment you will need to buy to get started, so it’s well worth getting one for practicing and playing basketball properly.
Important Features to Consider
A portable basketball hoop should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a portable basketball hoop for your family:
- Adjustable. While you don’t necessarily have to have an adjustable basketball hoop, this is an extremely useful feature if you have many different age groups in your family. It is nearly impossible for small children to play on a 10 feet tall basketball pole, and even shorter adults will probably have a better time if the basketball hoop is brought down a little bit. If your skills are particularly rusty, you might also enjoy starting out with the hoop lower than it normally is. But, buying a portable basketball hoop that is shorter but not adjustable could easily lead to your family outgrowing it. After all, kids do not stay kids forever. Because of this, we highly recommend purchasing an adjustable basketball hoop so that your family can enjoy it for years to come.
- Durability. A portable basketball hoop can be very big purchase, so generally, the longer it lasts, the better. Since you may choose to store your portable basketball hoop outside, it is important to purchase one that can withstand the elements in your area. The last thing you want is to discover that your basketball hoop has gotten rusty after only owning it for a year. Look for hoops that are protected from rust, contain durable materials, and have rims that snap back into place.
- Stability. Portable basketball hoops should be able to remain stable throughout the play. No one wants to continuously pick up their basketball hoop and put it back into place every time they shoot a basket. Plus, slamming into the ground continuously can quickly cause your basketball hoop to break, especially the rim. Therefore, look for a basketball hoop that is easy to fill up with water or sand. Check customer reviews to make sure that neither of these leaks out readily and stays inside the basketball hoop base. If you’re really worried about stability, consider an in-ground basketball hoop. While these are usually more expensive and tougher to install, they are usually a lot more stable and durable than a portable basketball hoop.
- Aesthetic. While how a basketball hoop looks might not be very important to some people, it can be a key feature if you’re buying one as a gift for your younger child or just don’t want it to be an eyesore on your driveway. Keep your eye out for basketball hoops that come in a number of different colors, and that keep their color over a long period. No one wants their once-red basketball hoop to turn black in only a couple years’ time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a full-size basketball hoop?
Basketball hoops come in a number of different sizes. While some are adjustable, others are not. A full-sized basketball hoop is one that is 10 feet tall with a backboard of 72 inches wide and 42 inches tall. The inner rectangle on the backboard should be 24 inches wide and 18 inches tall. All basketball rims are usually 18 inches in diameter. These specifications line up with pro-level regulations and can be very important if you or someone in your family plays competitive basketball and wants a hoop to practice on.
Is an acrylic or polycarbonate backboard better?
Polycarbonate is more durable than acrylic. But, besides that, it is nearly the same. They both look the same and feel the same. Polycarbonate is just better at standing up to a rough game of basketball. The rebound produced by both materials is also somewhat different. Polycarbonate rebounds at a lot slighter angle, and therefore it might be easier to make goals with.
What is a basketball rim made of?
Rims are usually made using high tensile carbon steel, but cheaper rims can also be made of plastic or another less durable material. Generally, basketball rims should be hand welded, not “spot welded.” Hand welded rims are more durable and last for longer than those that are only spot welded.
What is the size of a high school basketball blackboard?
If you or your family member is currently playing on a high school basketball team, it is very important to purchase a basketball goal that is the same as the one used at high school games. Practicing with a basketball hoop with different dimensions can cause you to learn “bad” habits that you’ll only have to un-learn before game day. Generally, high school basketball hoops have the same dimensions as the regulation hoops that are used by the pros. This means that the backboard is 6 feet wide and 42 inches tall.
Other Portable Basketball Hoops We Reviewed
We also looked at 20 other portable basketball hoops. Even though these didn’t make our 5 best portable basketball hoops list, they’re the best of the rest, and each is still a great option for your family. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Portable Basketball Hoops with Wheels
- Adjustable Portable Basketball Hoops
- Portable Basketball Hoops for Kids
Portable Basketball Hoops with Wheels
Lifetime 1531 Portable Basketball System
Featuring a shatter-proof backboard and rust-resistant finishing, this portable basketball hoop with wheels is extremely durable and is a good choice if the weather in your area is particularly harsh.
Key Features:
- 48-inch shatterproof backboard
- 31-gallon base
- 5-year warranty
Cost: $200
Lifetime 71524 XL Portable Basketball System
This basketball hoop was designed to be slightly larger than most other portable basketball hoops and is adjustable to up to 10 feet.
Key Features:
- 5-year warranty
- All-weather net
- Heavy duty base
Cost: $400
Silverback NXT Portable Basketball Hoop
With a steel-on-steel connection for ultimate stability and a specially designed backboard for extra rebound, this portable basketball hoop with wheels makes for a fantastic game among friends.
Key Features:
- Steel-on-steel connection
- Wheel-barrow design for easy lift-and-roll action
- Ultra-fast assembly
Cost: $480
Spalding NBA The Beast Portable Basketball System
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line portable basketball hoop with wheels that mimics the pros as close as possible, this is the hoop to get. It has a 60-inch glass backboard that produces a perfect rebound, which is great if you play competitively and need to practice.
Key Features:
- Glass backboard
- Adjustable from 7.5 to 10-feet
- Breakaway basketball rim
Cost: $1,199
Adjustable Basketball Hoops
SKLZ Pro-Mini Basketball Hoop System
If you prefer to play with a mini-basketball instead of a full-sized one, this is the basketball hoop you need. It is specially made to be used with a 7-inch mini-basketball and is adjustable from 3.5 to 7 feet.
Key Features:
- Works with mini-basketballs
- Adjustable from 3.5 to 7 feet
- Polycarbonate backboard
Cost: $107
Yaheetech Adjustable Basketball Hoop System
Featuring a nylon net, steel tube, and PU backboard and base, this basketball hoop was made for durability in mind. It also has 2 heavy-duty wheels to proves some mobility.
Key Features:
- Adjustable from 4.9 to 6.9 feet
- Moveable
- Base can hold 77 pounds of water
Cost: $590
Lifetime 90061 Portable Basketball System with Polycarbonate Shatterproof Backboard
This stellar basketball hoop easily adjusts from 7.5 to 10 feet and boasts a 35 Gallon heavy duty base to boot. The lengthy limited manufacturer warranty offered is certainly a comfort as well.
Key Features:
- Adjusts from 7.5 to 10 feet
- 35 Gallon heavy duty base
- 5-year limited manufacturer warranty
Cost: $367
Franklin Sports Adjustable Portable Basketball Hoop
If you’re concerned about finding a portable basketball hoop that will last the years, you’ll be pleased to learn this option from Franklin Sports is built to last. You’ll be impressed with the reinforced steel rim and stanchion and the weatherproof parts.
Key Features:
- Weighted base
- Weather resistant
- Rim and stanchion made from reinforced steel
Cost: $211
Spalding NBA Portable Basketball System with 54-Inch Acrylic Backboard
This portable basketball hoop is the same as our #4 pick, only it features a smaller backboard that measures in at 54-inch x 32-inch. So if you were impressed by all of the features of the 60-inch backboard version but are looking for a more compact option, this one is well worth considering.
Key Features:
- Acrylic board with arena style padding
- Steel board frame with aluminum trim
- Screw jack lift for height adjustment
Cost: $574
Aosom Mini Poolside Basketball Hoop with Adjustable Height
As you can see, this adjustable basketball hoop has an eye-catching difference: it’s made for the poolside. Whether you’re absolutely obsessed with basketball or are looking for a fun game that will get your heart racing in the pool, this mini poolside basketball hoop is bound to be a hit. It adjusts from 35.4″ to 48.4,” so it’s perfect for playing b-ball in the pool with kids and adults alike.
Key Features:
- Made for the poolside
- Adjustable from 35.4-inch to 48.4-inch
- 30-inch wide backboard
Cost: $62
Basketball Hoops for Kids
Fisher-Price Grow-to-Pro Basketball Hoop
Just like the name suggests, this basketball hoop is designed to grow with your child. It has 4 height positions and can be used both indoor and outdoors. The base can also be filled with water or sand if desired.
Key Features:
- Adjustable from 3 to 6 feet
- Sturdy base
- Indoor and outdoor use
Cost: $55
Fitnessclub Basketball Hoop Stand for Kids
This basketball hoop is for kids are too big for smaller children’s hoops but also too small for a full-sized hoop. It is designed for older children and adjusts from 5.4 to 7 feet. If you’re looking to get your children involved in basketball but they aren’t quite big enough for a full-sized hoop, this is a good one to start with.
Key Features:
- High-density PE backboard
- Portable base with wheels
- Can be filled with sand or water
Cost: $60
Little Tikes EasyScore Basketball Set
Have a toddler or small child that is interested in basketball? Then they need this mini-basketball hoop. It adjusts from 2 to 4 feet tall and is designed for children 1 ½ to 5 years of age.
Key Features:
- Includes an oversized rim and 3 Junior size basketballs
- Adjustable from 2 to 4 feet
- Base can be weighted with sand
Cost: $35
Topeakmart Portable Basketball Hoop
Older children will appreciate the effort you went to to find a portable basketball hoop that is not only built to last with its anti-rust post, but also can be set up in a jiffy. They’ll also love that the height can swiftly be adjusted from 5 to 7 feet and that the groove in the base holds their basketball in place after they’re done playing.
Key Features:
- Non-toxic, anti-rust painted round iron post
- Worry-free assembly
- Adjustable from 5 to 7 feet
Cost: $94
Step2 Shootin’ Hoops Junior Basketball Set
This basketball hoop has a center pole that adjusts from 30-inch to 48-inch and includes an extremely stable base to prevent it from being knocked over.
Key Features:
- Stable, fillable base
- Adjusts from 30-inch to 48-inch
- Large backboard and real woven net
Cost: $40
Movement God Kid Portable Basketball Hoop
“Awesome REAL basketball goal!” and “This is the next step up for little ballers” are just some of the positive reviews customers have left about this basketball hoop for pint-sized players. We love that it’s made to withstand harsh weather conditions, and that the height is easily adjustable from 5.4 to 7 feet.
Key Features:
- Rust and weather-resistant
- Steel rim
- Adjusts from 5.4 to 7 feet
Cost: $75
Fajiabao Kids Basketball Hoop Stand
This portable basketball hoop stand ticks numerous boxes for parents. For starters, it’s made with non-toxic materials. It’s also super easy to install, move, and disassemble. You’ll also appreciate the fact that they’ve even thrown in a mini basket ball, so your little one can begin playing straight away!
Key Features:
- Easily adjustable height
- Made with non-toxic materials
- Comes with 7 parts, including a mini basketball
Cost: $32
Smartxchoices Portable Basketball Hoop Stand
If you want to offer your children the feeling of playing or practicing with an authentic basket ball hoop, this hoop has been designed to fulfill this very purpose. In addition to looking sharp, it features a 16-inch diameter spring-action rim that is adjustable from 70.47-inch to 82.28-inch and 2 heavy duty wheels.
Key Features:
- Uses rust-proof black lacquer painted steel
- Adjusts from 70.47-inch to 82.2-inch
- Includes 2 heavy duty wheels
Cost: $49
Spalding Youth One-On-One Portable Basketball System
Sometimes simple is best. If you’re looking for a basketball hoop for your kids that does the job without a fuss, the Spalding Youth One-On-One Portable Basketball System is it. This no-frills option has a 24-inch sized and a 10-inch rim diameter.
Key Features:
- Simple design
- 24-inch sized backboard
- Eco-Composite plastic board
Cost: $80
Depointer Portable Basketball Hoop Backboard System Stand and Rim for Kids
Another excellent no-frills option is the Depointer Portable Basketball Hoop Backboard System Stand and Rim for Kids. Priced at only $30, this basketball hoop is perfect for parents looking for an affordable product that doesn’t cut corners.
Key Features:
- Polyethylene molded base
- Polypropylene backboard
- Affordable price
Cost: $30
