Embodiments related to utilizing substantially optimal entries for a relatively low complexity dictionary for matching pursuits coding is disclosed. In various embodiments, methods are invoked for determining a substantially optimal entry from a bases dictionary comprising a plurality of entries; and utilizing the substantially optimal entry in a relatively low complexity matching pursuits data coding. In various embodiments, a system is provided comprising a bases dictionary comprising a plurality of entries each with a width of 15 or less; a signal to be coded; and a selection module configured to receive at least one of the plurality of entries from the bases dictionary, to calculate an inner product between the at least one of the plurality of entries and the signal to be coded, and to select the entry from the at least one of the plurality of entries that produces a maximum inner product for use in at least partially coding the signal to be coded. In various embodiments, instructions for the invoked methods are stored in computer-readable media.