CRBN³ X Series Review
Quick Specifications
- Weight
- 7.8–8.1 oz
- Shape
- Elongated
- Length
- 16.5 in
- Width
- 7.5 in
- Core thickness
- 14 mm or 16 mm (scored at 14 mm)
- Grip length
- 5.25 in
- Grip circumference
- 4.125 in
- Core material
- Not specified by CRBN (honeycomb-style core with foam-reinforced perimeter)
- Surface material
- Gritty T700 Toray carbon fiber
- Balance
- Not published by CRBN
- USA Pickleball status
- Approved: the 14 mm and 16 mm versions are on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list (checked 2026-10-01).
Specifications come from the manufacturer; our sources are listed with each review. Research scores follow our editorial policy. Always confirm USA Pickleball approval on the official list before tournament play.
Who Is This Paddle For?
- Players who want elongated reach with a wider face
- One-handed players (5.25 in handle)
- Players who want a proven carbon paddle under $150
May want another paddle
- Players with two-handed backhands should look at the CRBN¹ X Series
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Highest research score in the X Series (9.1)
- Strong power (9.75) and spin (9.5) on our scale
- On the USA Pickleball approved list in 14 and 16 mm
- 4.9 out of 5 from 861 verified buyers on CRBN's site
Cons
- CRBN doesn't name the core material
- No published swing or twist weight
- Shorter 5.25 in handle limits two-handed shots
- CRBN says its TruFoam Genesis hits harder
Our Review
Power
Our analysis of manufacturer specs
On our spec-based scale it rates 9.75 for power: a 14 mm core, a 7.8–8.1 oz weight, a 16.5 in elongated shape and unibody construction add power on our scale. We score the 14 mm version. The 16 mm version would rate 9 for power and 9 for control on our scale, with a larger sweet spot..
Control
Our analysis of manufacturer specs
A 14 mm core and carbon face give it a control rating of 8.25; the elongated shape trades some control for reach.
Spin
Our analysis of manufacturer specs
Its gritty T700 carbon face and elongated shape give it a spin rating of 9.5.
Sweet spot
Our analysis of manufacturer specs
A 7.5 in face, 14 mm core and unibody build give it a sweet-spot rating of 8.75, the best of the X Series shapes we review.
Maneuverability
Manufacturer data
At 7.8–8.1 oz, it's one of CRBN's lighter paddles. CRBN doesn't publish swing weight for the X Series.
Handle & comfort
Our analysis of manufacturer specs
CRBN lists a 5.25 in handle: a mid-length handle that suits one-handed play and leaves a little room for a second hand. The grip circumference is 4.125 in, the most common size; players with larger hands often add an overgrip. At about 7.95 oz, it is in the mid-weight range most paddles fall into. Comfort is personal: grip size, handle length and weight are the published specs that affect it most.
Stability
Manufacturer data
CRBN credits the unibody build and reinforced edges with stability and less vibration. It doesn't publish twist weight for the X Series.
Build quality
Manufacturer information
The X Series uses a unibody build, with carbon fiber running from the face through the handle, and reinforced edge walls that CRBN says add stability and expand the sweet spot, behind a gritty T700 Toray carbon fiber face. CRBN doesn't name the core material; its TruFoam pages contrast the newer foam cores with honeycomb. It ships with a neoprene paddle cover. CRBN covers registered paddles bought in the US or Canada for one year against manufacturing defects, and every paddle comes with a 30-day trial with free return shipping.
Feel
Manufacturer description and buyer feedback
CRBN describes a stiff, responsive unibody feel with less vibration from the reinforced edges. As of October 2026, CRBN's site shows an average of 4.93 out of 5 from 861 verified-buyer reviews. In the most recent reviews, buyers most often mention its power, followed by control, spin and sweet spot. Low ratings are rare: one buyer preferred their older 13 mm CRBN to the 16 mm, and two older reviews describe a small crack or a crushed spot on the edge. These reports don't add up to a consistent pattern, so we haven't adjusted any rating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which X Series shape should I choose?
The 1X is elongated with a long handle (16.5 x 7.25 in, 5.5 in handle), the 3X is elongated with a wider face (16.5 x 7.5 in, 5.25 in handle) and the 2X is a square shape (15.75 x 8 in). Each comes in 14 mm or 16 mm. A 12 mm 1X is sold as Thomas Wilson's signature paddle.
Is the CRBN³ X Series tournament legal?
Approved: the 14 mm and 16 mm versions are on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list (checked 2026-10-01).
Should I choose the 14 mm or 16 mm version?
Thinner cores generally add pop and thicker cores add control and a softer feel. On our scale the 14 mm version rates higher for power and the 16 mm version higher for control and sweet spot. A few buyers found the 16 mm short on power.
Final Summary
Best features
Strong power and spin, a wider elongated face and unibody construction at the lowest CRBN price.
Potential drawbacks
An unnamed core material, no published swing or twist weight and a shorter handle.
Ideal player
An intermediate or advanced player who wants elongated power with a bit more forgiveness, for less.
Where to buy
We link to CRBN, the brand's own store, so you buy new and the manufacturer's warranty and return policy apply. List price: $149.99 (prices change, so check the store for today's price). It is on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list.
Not sold? Compare it with the alternatives below or use our paddle comparison tool.
Paddle Alternatives
Comparable paddles worth a look if this one isn't quite right.
ONIX Adapt Max
Elongated raw-carbon paddle with a textured spin surface
