Ratings Head to Head
CRBN¹ X SeriesCRBN³ X Series
Power9.59.5
Control88
Spin9.59.5
Sweet spot88.5
Research score8.88.9
Which Suits Your Game?
| Player type | CRBN¹ X Series | CRBN³ X Series |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | 8.4 | 8.6 |
| Touch players | 8.5 | 8.6 |
| Power hitters | 9.0 | 9.1 |
| Spin players | 9.1 | 9.1 |
Weighted from the four ratings. How these are weighted
Key Differences
- The biggest gap is sweet spot: the CRBN³ X Series rates 8.5 to the CRBN¹ X Series’s 8.
- They tie on power (9.5), control (8) and spin (9.5).
The Verdict
Choose the CRBN³ X Series if you want a bigger sweet spot, especially if you’re a beginner.
Specs Side by Side
| Spec | CRBN¹ X Series | CRBN³ X Series |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.8–8.1 oz | 7.8–8.1 oz |
| 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 or 16 mm (scored at 14 mm) |
| Core | Upgraded durable core with a foam-reinforced perimeter (CRBN doesn’t name the core material) | Upgraded durable core with a foam-reinforced perimeter (CRBN doesn’t name the core material) |
| Face | Gritty T700 Toray carbon fiber | Gritty T700 Toray carbon fiber |
| Handle length | 5.5 in | 5.25 in |
| Grip size | 4.125 in | 4.125 in |
| Price | $149.99 (list $229.99) | $149.99 (list $229.99) |
| 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 X Series?
On our spec-based scale the CRBN³ X Series scores higher (8.9 vs 8.8). By player type, the CRBN³ X Series suits beginners better.
Which has more power, the CRBN¹ X Series or the CRBN³ X Series?
They rate the same for power on our scale (9.5).
Which is better for beginners, the CRBN¹ X Series or the CRBN³ X Series?
The CRBN³ X Series scores higher for beginners (8.6 vs 8.4), mainly from its sweet spot and control ratings.
Are the CRBN¹ X Series and CRBN³ X Series approved for tournament play?
Yes. Both are on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list.
More Head-to-Head Comparisons
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