Franklin Sports Pro Vs Onix Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddles

Today, I want to share my thoughts on two paddles that have caught my attention: the Franklin Sports Pro Signature Pickleball Paddle and the Onix Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle. 

These paddles have been making waves with their affordable price tags and positive feedback from players. Being curious myself, I decided to put them to the test and see how they stack up. 

In this comparison article, I’ll be sharing my personal experiences, providing you with a detailed breakdown of their designs, cores, paddle surfaces, weights, grips, handles, and edge guards. 

But that’s not all—I’ll also delve into the unique features of each paddle, their performance compared to other options on the market, and how they’ve evolved from their previous models. 

So, whether you’re a seasoned pickleball pro or just starting out, this article aims to equip you with practical information and test results that will help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in and find the perfect paddle to elevate your game on the pickleball court!

Related Article: Best Pickleball Paddles

Franklin Sports Pro Vs Onix Evoke Premier – Design Comparison

After extensive testing and research, I have had the opportunity to compare the design of the Franklin Sports Pro Signature Pickleball Paddle and the Onix Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle. Both paddles have distinct features that contribute to their overall performance on the court.

Let’s start with the Franklin Sports Pro paddle. It comes in two sizes: a 13-millimeter core and a 16-millimeter core. I personally opted for the 13-millimeter version, and I must say, it was a fantastic choice. 

The design of this paddle strikes a perfect balance between speed, forgiveness, and consistency. It allows for accurate shots with ease, giving me confidence during gameplay. 

Additionally, the sleek and modern appearance of the paddle is visually appealing and adds to its overall performance. It’s always a bonus to have a paddle that not only performs well but looks good too.

On the other hand, the Onix Evoke Premier paddle boasts a composite base and a polypropylene core. This combination of materials delivers an exceptional blend of power, precision, and control. 

I found that the design of this paddle truly lived up to its promise, allowing me to consistently hit accurate and controlled shots. The 16-inch handle length provided improved reach, enabling me to cover more ground on the court. 

The 8-inch width of the paddle also added stability to my shots, ensuring they stayed within bounds. It’s worth noting that the handle length and width are interesting design aspects that contribute to the overall performance of the Onix Evoke Premier paddle.

Pros and Cons of the Franklin Sports Pro Signature Pickleball Paddle

Pros and Cons of the Franklin Sports Pro Signature Pickleball Paddle:

  • Affordable price tag and favorable reviews.
  • Perfect blend of speed, forgiveness, and consistency in design.
  • Innovative 13mm polypropylene core with MaxGrit technology.
  • Signature max grit texture on the paddle surface for power and precision.
  • Customizable weight options for personalized gameplay.
  • Comfortable grip with the option to add a tackier wrap.
  • Ample handle length for executing a two-handed backhand.
  • Grit texture on the paddle surface may wear off over time.
  • Not the most powerful paddle in terms of raw hitting power.
  • Newer models with high-spin technology available in the market.
Pros and Cons of the Onix Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle

Pros and Cons of the Onix Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle:

  • Combination of power, precision, and control.
  • Composite base and polypropylene core for optimal performance.
  • Lightweight design for easy maneuverability.
  • Comfortable grip and 5-inch handle length.
  • Atomic13 Edge Technology for enhanced durability.
  • Generous sweet spot for accuracy and powerful shots.
  • Evolution from previous models with a larger sweet spot and more power.
  • Slippery and dull grip that may require regripping.
  • Lack of forgiveness when mishitting shots.

Franklin Sports Pro Vs Onix Evoke Premier – Core Comparison

Let’s start with the Franklin Sports Pro paddle. It boasts a 13mm polypropylene core with MaxGrit technology. This innovative core material is a game-changer, as it significantly enhances the paddle’s overall performance. 

The MaxGrit technology not only provides improved responsiveness but also enhances control during gameplay. Through my research, I discovered that this core design sets the Franklin Sports Pro paddle apart from its competitors, giving players a distinct edge on the court. 

This indicates that the paddle is designed to optimize control and precision, allowing players to execute shots with confidence.

On the other hand, the Onix Evoke Premier paddle features a polypropylene core that delivers enhanced power and control. The core material plays a vital role in the paddle’s ability to generate powerful shots while maintaining precise control over the ball. 

This design aspect ensures that players have the necessary power behind their shots while maintaining the accuracy needed to keep the ball in play. 

It’s worth noting that the polypropylene core is commonly known for its durability and excellent responsiveness, which contributes to the overall performance of the Onix Evoke Premier paddle.

Furthermore, the MaxGrit technology used in the Franklin Sports Pro paddle is an intriguing addition. This unique feature enhances the grip and texture of the paddle surface, offering players additional control and a more comfortable feel during gameplay. 

This innovative approach demonstrates Franklin Sports’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and incorporating advanced technologies into their paddles.

Franklin Sports Pro Vs Onix Evoke Premier – Surface Comparison

Let’s start with the Franklin Sports Pro paddle. Its signature max grit texture on the paddle’s surface initially caught my attention with its impressive power and precision. 

The texture adds a unique element to the gameplay by contributing to spin generation, allowing players to put more spin on the ball and create different shot trajectories. 

This feature can give players an advantage during intense rallies and strategic plays.

However, it is worth mentioning that during my testing, I noticed that the grit on the paddle’s surface tends to wear off after a few weeks of frequent play. While this may be a slight drawback, it does not significantly impact the overall performance of the paddle. 

It’s important to note that regular maintenance and proper care can help preserve the grit texture for a longer period of time. Additionally, some players may prefer a smoother surface as they refine their technique and playing style.

Moving on to the Onix Evoke Premier paddle, its paddle surface has a DF Composite (fiberglass) finish. This finish not only enhances the paddle’s overall performance but also offers excellent durability. 

The fiberglass material adds a layer of strength and resilience to the paddle, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of intense gameplay and accidental impacts against hard surfaces.

Beyond the obvious, it’s interesting to note that the Franklin Sports Pro paddle’s max grit texture and the Onix Evoke Premier paddle’s DF Composite finish cater to different player preferences and playing styles. 

The max grit texture of the Franklin Sports Pro paddle provides added spin potential, which can be advantageous for players who rely on spin shots and enjoy a more aggressive playstyle. 

On the other hand, the DF Composite finish of the Onix Evoke Premier paddle emphasizes durability and overall performance, making it suitable for players seeking a balance of power and control.

Franklin Sports Pro Vs Onix Evoke Premier – Weight Comparison

Starting with the Franklin Sports Pro paddle, one standout feature is its customizability when it comes to weight. With a range of 7.5 to 8 ounces, players have the flexibility to find the perfect weight that suits their individual needs. 

During my playtesting, I thoroughly enjoyed experimenting with the different weight options and eventually discovered the ideal balance that complimented my gameplay. By finding the right weight, I experienced improved control and maneuverability on the court. 

This aspect alone sets the Franklin Sports Pro paddle apart and makes it an excellent choice for players who value customization and want to fine-tune their equipment to match their specific style.

On the other hand, the Onix Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle boasts an incredibly lightweight design, weighing just 7.8 ounces. This lightweight nature has its own advantages, as it allows for easy maneuverability during gameplay.

 I found that the paddle’s light weight was a key factor in enhancing my overall performance on the court. By reducing the reliance on arm strength alone, I could focus more on perfecting my technique and executing precise shots. 

The quick reactions and agile movements facilitated by the paddle’s lightweight construction gave me a noticeable edge, particularly in fast-paced and intense matches.

Franklin Sports Pro Vs Onix Evoke Premier – Grip and Handle Comparison

Franklin Sports Pro offers a comfortable grip with a 5.25-inch size. This size is particularly advantageous for players who utilize a two-handed backhand, as it provides enough space to grip the paddle securely. 

While the grip that comes with the paddle is sufficient, I personally found that adding a tackier wrap enhanced the grip and control, especially during intense rallies. 

This customization option allows players to tailor the grip to their liking, providing a personalized touch that can significantly impact their performance. 

Additionally, the handle of the Franklin Sports Pro paddle measures around 5.6 inches, offering ample length for executing a two-handed backhand with ease. This feature was a standout for me, as it ensured a comfortable and secure grip throughout my gameplay. 

The longer handle provided improved shot execution and overall performance, allowing me to have better control over my shots.

On the other hand, the Onix Evoke Premier paddle comes with a 5-0 gold medal grip, which ensures a secure hold even during long rallies or intense matches. 

However, I found that the grip that comes with the paddle was somewhat slippery and dull, which affected my control and confidence during gameplay. I opted to regrip the paddle with a tackier wrap to improve the grip and overall control. 

While this required an additional step, it significantly enhanced my performance on the court. The 5-inch handle length of the Onix Evoke Premier paddle provides a comfortable grip, allowing for confident maneuvering of the paddle and precise shot execution.

Franklin Sports Pro Vs Onix Evoke Premier – Edge Guard Comparison

The Franklin Sports Pro paddle is equipped with an edge guard that provides added protection. This edge guard ensures that the paddle remains intact even when subjected to rigorous play and accidental impacts against hard surfaces like concrete. 

This feature offers a significant advantage, as it gives players peace of mind, knowing that their paddle can withstand the challenges of competitive play. 

The edge guard adds an extra layer of durability to the paddle, protecting it from potential damage that could otherwise shorten its lifespan.

On the other hand, the Onix Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle features Atomic13 Edge Technology, which enhances the durability of the paddle’s edges. 

This advanced technology provides additional edge guard protection, ensuring that the paddle remains resilient even in the face of intense gameplay. 

The Atomic13 Edge Technology is specifically designed to safeguard the paddle from potential damage during rallies, safeguarding its longevity and ensuring it can endure prolonged and competitive use.

Specifications

Franklin Sports Pro

Onix Evoke Premier

Weight

7.5 to 8 oz

7.5-8.4 oz

Core Thickness

13mm or 16mm

Core Material

Polypropylene Honeycomb

Polypropylene

Face Material

Fiberglass with MaxGrit

DF Composite (fiberglass)

Length

16.5 Inches

16 Inches

Width

7.3 Inches

8 Inches

Handle Length

5.6 Inches

5 Inches

Grip Circumference

4 1/4 inches

4 1/8 inches

Conclusion

Both the Franklin Sports Pro Signature Pickleball Paddle and the Onix Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle offer compelling options for tennis players transitioning to pickleball. 

The Franklin Sports Pro paddle stands out with its well-rounded design, durable construction, and features such as the customizable weight, comfortable grip, ample handle length, and protective edge guard. 

While the grip surface may experience wear over time, this paddle remains a reliable choice that provides excellent value for money. On the other hand, the Onix Evoke Premier paddle impresses with its power, precision, and control. 

Its lightweight design, composite base, and polypropylene core contribute to its superior performance on the court, though the grip could benefit from regripping. With a generous sweet spot and durable construction, it is an excellent option for players looking to elevate their pickleball experience. 

Whether prioritizing customization and versatility or power and control, these paddles showcase the commitment of their respective brands in providing high-quality equipment for players of all skill levels.

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Michael Stevenson

Michael Stevenson

Hi, my name is Michael Stevenson and I’m a passionate pickleball player. I’ve been playing the game for many years and I’m pretty highly skilled at it. Pickleball is one of my favorite topics so naturally, I love to write about it.

Whether it’s tips for beginners, guides for experts, reviews of new paddles, or advanced playing techniques – if it relates to pickleball then I have something interesting to write about it. So if you’re looking for entertaining and informative information on the topic of pickleball, look no further than my written works!