CRBN
CRBN³ TruFoam Barrage (Elongated)
Attacking players who want instant pop with elongated reach
PREMIUMPICKLEBALL GEARHead-to-Head Comparison
The Paddletek Honeyfoam TKO-X scores 9.1 and the CRBN³ TruFoam Barrage (Elongated) scores 8.9 on our spec-based rating scale. Calculated from each maker’s published specs; we don’t play-test paddles.
Two elongated foam-core paddles, tuned differently. The CRBN³ TruFoam Barrage Elongated is 14 mm thick; the Paddletek Honeyfoam TKO-X we rated is the 16 mm version, with a longer 5.75-inch handle. On our scale the Barrage has the edge on power (10 vs 9.5), while the TKO-X rates higher for control (9 vs 8) and sweet spot (8.5 vs 8). One note: Paddletek says the 14 mm TKO-X isn't USA Pickleball approved, only the 16 mm.
Buyers rate the Barrage a bit higher: 4.9 out of 5 from 70+ ratings on CRBN's site, against 4.6 from 60+ on Paddletek's. The Barrage is also the pricier pick. Choose it if you want maximum power; choose the TKO-X 16 mm if you'd rather have more control and the longer handle.
By Dan · Based on each brand’s published specs and buyer ratings, October 2026. We don’t play-test paddles.

CRBN
Attacking players who want instant pop with elongated reach

Paddletek
Players who want elongated reach and foam-core power
| Player type | CRBN³ TruFoam Barrage (Elongated) | Paddletek Honeyfoam TKO-X |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | 8.5 | 8.9 |
| Touch players | 8.5 | 9.0 |
| Power hitters | 9.2 | 9.2 |
| Spin players | 9.2 | 9.3 |
Weighted from the four ratings. How these are weighted
Go with the CRBN³ TruFoam Barrage (Elongated) if you want more power.
Choose the Paddletek Honeyfoam TKO-X if you want more control, a bigger sweet spot and a lower price, especially if you’re a beginner or a touch player.
| Spec | CRBN³ TruFoam Barrage (Elongated) | Paddletek Honeyfoam TKO-X |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.8–8.2 oz (8.0 oz average) | 7.8–8.2 oz (8.0 ± 0.2 oz) |
| Shape | Elongated | Elongated |
| Length | 16.5 in | 16.5 in |
| Width | 7.5 in | 7.5 in |
| Core thickness | 14 mm | 16 mm (14 mm version not USA Pickleball approved) |
| Core | 100% TruFoam Gen-4 floating foam core with EVA foam perimeter ring | Honeyfoam multi-foam: EPP foam core, EVA foam wrap and perimeter foam ring |
| Face | T700 raw carbon fiber | PT-700 unidirectional raw carbon fiber (Toray 700) |
| Handle length | 5.5 in | 5.75 in |
| Grip size | 4.125 in | Not published by Paddletek |
| Price | $229.99 (list $279.99) | $199.99 (list $249.99) |
| 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.
On our spec-based scale the Paddletek Honeyfoam TKO-X scores higher (9.1 vs 8.9). By player type, the Paddletek Honeyfoam TKO-X suits beginners and touch players better.
The CRBN³ TruFoam Barrage (Elongated) rates higher for power on our scale (10 vs 9.5).
The Paddletek Honeyfoam TKO-X scores higher for beginners (8.9 vs 8.5), mainly from its sweet spot and control ratings.
Yes. Both are on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list.

Next Step
Line up to four paddles side by side on the same research scale.
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