Franklin Ben Johns Signature Pro vs ONIX Z5 Graphite
Both paddles measured on the same 15-trait Paddle DNA test. Franklin Ben Johns Signature Pro takes the higher overall IQ score, but the right pick depends on which traits you value.
Paddle DNA head-to-head
- 70Power73
- 78Control76
- 66Spin62
- 84Forgiveness82
- 86Sweet spot84
- 72Stability70
- 86Maneuverability88
- 74Pop80
- 72Touch70
- 76Consistency74
- 46Swing weight44
- 64Twist weight62
- 69Launch angle70
- 54Plow through56
- 78Softness74
Specs
| $60 | Price | $70 |
|---|---|---|
| 13 mm | Core | 11 mm |
| 7.7 oz | Weight | 7.8 oz |
| 104 | Swing weight | 102 |
| 5.6 | Twist weight | 5.5 |
| standard | Shape | widebody |
| Textured fiberglass | Surface | Graphite composite |
| 4.9 in | Handle | 5 in |
Franklin Ben Johns Signature Pro verdict
A starter paddle with a famous name on it. Perfectly serviceable for the first few months of play, and easy to hand down once you upgrade.
ONIX Z5 Graphite verdict
The paddle that introduced a generation to pickleball. It is fast and cheap, but the thin Nomex core is loud and dated next to modern polymer builds.

