Franklin Signature Carbon STR vs JOOLA Essentials 16

Both paddles measured on the same 15-trait Paddle DNA test. JOOLA Essentials 16 takes the higher overall IQ score, but the right pick depends on which traits you value.

Franklin Signature Carbon STR

Franklin

Signature Carbon STR

80$110
Full review →
JOOLA Essentials 16

JOOLA

Essentials 16

82$89
Full review →

Paddle DNA head-to-head

  • 76Power74
  • 83Control89
  • 80Spin78
  • 85Forgiveness91
  • 86Sweet spot92
  • 78Stability79
  • 82Maneuverability84
  • 76Pop76
  • 79Touch82
  • 81Consistency86
  • 54Swing weight46
  • 72Twist weight71
  • 63Launch angle66
  • 64Plow through62
  • 82Softness88

Specs

Specification comparison
$110Price$89
16 mmCore16 mm
8 ozWeight7.9 oz
110Swing weight108
6Twist weight5.8
standardShapestandard
Raw carbonSurfaceTextured fiberglass
5 inHandle5 in

Franklin Signature Carbon STR verdict

Franklin's most credible performance paddle to date. It will not win a spin shootout, but the balance and build quality are honest for the money.

JOOLA Essentials 16 verdict

The widest measured sweet spot in our sub-$100 test group. Mishits off the top third still clear the net, which is exactly what a new player needs while their contact point is inconsistent.

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