ONIX Malice Raw Carbon Review
Quick Specifications
- Weight
- 7.8–8.2 oz
- Length
- 16 in
- Width
- 8 in
- Grip length
- 5 in
- Grip circumference
- 4.25 in
- Core thickness
- 16 mm (14 mm version also available)
- Core material
- Polypropylene honeycomb
- Surface material
- Raw carbon fiber
- Shape
- Standard
- Balance
- Swing and twist weight not published by ONIX
- USA Pickleball status
- Yes. The Malice 16 Raw Carbon and Malice 14 Raw Carbon are on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list (added 06/06/2024 and 01/12/2024; checked 2026-09-30).
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.
Our Review
Power
On our spec-based scale it rates 8 for power: the compact 16 in shape and 16 mm core favor control over pace, while ONIX's ThermoFused construction and midweight build add some drive.
Control
A 16 mm core, raw carbon face and standard 16 in shape point to strong control (9.5 on our scale). ONIX recommends the 16 mm version for maximum control.
Spin
Its raw carbon fiber face gives it a spin rating of 8.75. ONIX says the raw carbon texture adds traction on the ball; it doesn't name a separate branded texture, so it scores as a standard textured surface on our scale.
Sweet spot
An 8 in wide face, 16 mm core and ThermoFused construction give it a sweet-spot rating of 10, the top of our scale.
Maneuverability
At 7.8–8.2 oz it sits in the midweight range. ONIX says the foam-filled handle improves comfort; it doesn't publish a swing weight.
Stability
ONIX says the carbon fiber Power Frame wraps the whole paddle for strength, and the foam-filled handle reduces vibration. It doesn't publish twist weight.
Build quality
The Malice Raw Carbon uses ONIX's patented ThermoFused process and a carbon fiber Power Frame that wraps the entire paddle. The open-throat design has no edge guard. ONIX covers it with a one-year limited warranty.
Feel
As of September 2026, ONIX's website shows an average of 5.0 out of 5 from 4 ratings. Customers on ONIX's site praise its large sweet spot, light feel, control and pop, and one mentions a short break-in period. With only a handful of reviews there isn't enough for a consistent pattern, so we haven't adjusted any rating.
Who Is This Paddle For?
- Control-first players who win at the kitchen
- Players who want the biggest, most forgiving face
- Players who prefer a paddle with no edge guard
- Players who want more power should consider the Praxis
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Top sweet-spot rating (10) and strong control (9.5) on our scale
- Raw carbon face and ThermoFused construction
- Choice of 14 mm or 16 mm
- USA Pickleball approved
- 5.0 out of 5 from 4 ratings on ONIX's site
Cons
- Premium price ($249.99)
- One-year warranty, shorter than some rivals
- No published swing or twist weight
- Only a few customer reviews so far
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Malice Raw Carbon and the Malice DB Raw Carbon?
Per ONIX, the DB version has a double-bridge throat with a rubber insert that it says reduces vibration and adds power; the dimensions and weight are the same.
How does the 14 mm version score?
On our scale the 14 mm version rates 8.75 power, 8.75 control, 8.75 spin and 10 sweet spot, for a research score of 9.1.
Is the ONIX Malice Raw Carbon tournament legal?
Yes. The Malice 16 Raw Carbon and Malice 14 Raw Carbon are on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list (added 06/06/2024 and 01/12/2024; checked 2026-09-30).
Final Summary
Best features
The top sweet-spot rating on our scale from an 8 in wide face, with strong control from a 16 mm core and raw carbon face.
Potential drawbacks
A $249.99 price, a one-year warranty and no published swing or twist weight.
Ideal player
A control-first intermediate or advanced player who wants a large, forgiving face with raw carbon spin.
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.
