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Onix Graphite Z5 for intermediates wanting a forgiving widebody; Franklin X-40 for absolute newcomers spending under forty pounds.
An interesting mid-tier matchup. The Franklin X-40 Performance at £35 is a value-tier all-skill paddle. The Onix Graphite Z5 at £60-80 is a 220-235g widebody paddle with Nomex honeycomb core, graphite face and 14mm thickness — a long-running bestseller that's remained popular precisely because the formula works. Buy the Onix Graphite Z5 if you're past your first ten sessions, you want the bigger sweet spot the widebody shape delivers, and you're happy with graphite over modern carbon for a slightly softer feel on dinks. Buy the Franklin X-40 if you're brand-new to pickleball, you want to spend under £40 on your first paddle, and you're not sure yet whether the sport will stick. The Z5's Nomex core is louder and livelier than polymer, which some players love and others find harsh — it's worth trying at a club before committing. For most newcomers, the Franklin X-40 covers the basics well enough for the first three months.
Hand-written editorial — not auto-generated. By Gary, RacketRise.
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Pickleball Paddles | Pickleball Paddles |
| Sport | Pickleball | Pickleball |
| Skill Level | Beginner | Intermediate |
| Weight | — | 220-235g |
| Shape | Standard | Widebody |
| Core | Polymer honeycomb | Nomex honeycomb |
| Surface | Fibreglass | Graphite |
| Grip Size | — | 4 1/4" |
| Core Thickness | — | 14mm |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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The main differences are: Shape: Franklin X-40 has Standard vs Widebody. Core: Franklin X-40 has Polymer honeycomb vs Nomex honeycomb. Surface: Franklin X-40 has Fibreglass vs Graphite. Overall, the Franklin X-40 Performance Pickleball Paddle is best for beginners while the Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle suits intermediate players.
The Franklin X-40 Performance Pickleball Paddle is the better choice for beginners thanks to its forgiving design and accessible price point. The Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is aimed at intermediate players and may be more demanding to use effectively.
The Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle (£60-80) costs more than the Franklin X-40 Performance Pickleball Paddle (£35). Whether the premium is worth it depends on your skill level — if you are intermediate players, the extra investment in the Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle can pay off.