Head-to-Head Comparison
CRBN¹ X Series vs CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated)
The CRBN¹ X Series scores 8.8 and the CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated) scores 8.6 on our spec-based rating scale. Calculated from each maker’s published specs; we don’t play-test paddles.

CRBN
CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated)
Power players who want big drives and dwell-based spin
Ratings Head to Head
Which Suits Your Game?
| Player type | CRBN¹ X Series | CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated) |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | 8.4 | 8.2 |
| Touch players | 8.5 | 8.2 |
| Power hitters | 9.0 | 9.0 |
| Spin players | 9.1 | 8.8 |
Weighted from the four ratings. How these are weighted
Key Differences
- The biggest gap is power: the CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated) rates 10 to the CRBN¹ X Series’s 9.5.
- Control goes to the CRBN¹ X Series (8 vs 7.5).
- The CRBN¹ X Series also leads on spin, 9.5 to 9.
- They tie on sweet spot (8).
- Price: the CRBN¹ X Series costs less right now (see the prices above).
The Verdict
Go with the CRBN¹ X Series if you want more control, more spin and a lower price, especially if you’re a beginner or a touch player.
Go with the CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated) if you want more power.
Specs Side by Side
| Spec | CRBN¹ X Series | CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.8–8.1 oz | 7.8–8.2 oz (8.0 oz average) |
| Shape | Elongated | Elongated |
| Length | 16.5 in | 16.5 in |
| Width | 7.25 in | 7.5 in |
| Core thickness | 14 mm or 16 mm (scored at 14 mm) | 14 mm |
| Core | Upgraded durable core with a foam-reinforced perimeter (CRBN doesn’t name the core material) | 100% TruFoam Gen-4 foam core |
| Face | Gritty T700 Toray carbon fiber | T700 raw carbon fiber with fiberglass layer |
| Handle length | 5.5 in | 5.5 in |
| Grip size | 4.125 in | 4.125 in |
| Price | $149.99 (list $229.99) | $199.99 (list $279.99) |
| USA Pickleball approved | Yes | Yes |
Specs as published by each manufacturer. Prices are checked daily on each brand’s own store; the checkout price is final.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, the CRBN¹ X Series or the CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated)?
On our spec-based scale the CRBN¹ X Series scores higher (8.8 vs 8.6). By player type, the CRBN¹ X Series suits beginners, touch players and spin players better.
Which has more power, the CRBN¹ X Series or the CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated)?
The CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated) rates higher for power on our scale (10 vs 9.5).
Which is better for beginners, the CRBN¹ X Series or the CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated)?
The CRBN¹ X Series scores higher for beginners (8.4 vs 8.2), mainly from its sweet spot and control ratings.
Are the CRBN¹ X Series and CRBN³ TruFoam Waves (Elongated) approved for tournament play?
Yes. Both are on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list.
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