Ratings Head to Head
Onix Lucent RCVolair SHIFT EL
Power9.510
Control88
Spin9.58.5
Sweet spot99
Research score9.08.9
Which Suits Your Game?
| Player type | Onix Lucent RC | Volair SHIFT EL |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | 8.8 | 8.8 |
| Touch players | 8.7 | 8.6 |
| Power hitters | 9.2 | 9.2 |
| Spin players | 9.2 | 8.8 |
Weighted from the four ratings. How these are weighted
Key Differences
- The biggest gap is spin: the Onix Lucent RC rates 9.5 to the Volair SHIFT EL’s 8.5.
- Power goes to the Volair SHIFT EL (10 vs 9.5).
- They tie on control (8) and sweet spot (9).
- Price: the Volair SHIFT EL costs less at each brand’s own store.
The Verdict
Pick the Onix Lucent RC if you want more spin, especially if you’re a spin player.
Pick the Volair SHIFT EL if you want more power and a lower price.
Specs Side by Side
| Spec | Onix Lucent RC | Volair SHIFT EL |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.75–8.25 oz | 8.2 oz average |
| Shape | Elongated | Elongated |
| Length | 16.5 in | 16.5 in |
| Width | 7.5 in | 7.5 in |
| Core thickness | 14 mm | 14 mm |
| Core | Hexcell polypropylene | Full-foam floating core with flex channels, EVA perimeter and carbon-infused edge foam |
| Face | Dual Action raw carbon fiber | T700 carbon fiber (four layers) |
| Handle length | 5.7 in | 5.6 in |
| Grip size | 4.125 in | 4.125 in |
| Price | $119.99 | $99.99 |
| 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 Onix Lucent RC or the Volair SHIFT EL?
On our spec-based scale the Onix Lucent RC scores higher (9.0 vs 8.9). By player type, the Onix Lucent RC suits spin players better.
Which has more power, the Onix Lucent RC or the Volair SHIFT EL?
The Volair SHIFT EL rates higher for power on our scale (10 vs 9.5).
Which is better for beginners, the Onix Lucent RC or the Volair SHIFT EL?
They score the same for beginners on our weighted scale (8.8).
Are the Onix Lucent RC and Volair SHIFT EL approved for tournament play?
Yes. Both are on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list.
More Head-to-Head Comparisons
Next Step
Compare More Paddles
Line up to four paddles side by side on the same research scale.