Engage Alpha Pro vs Franklin Sports C45 Aurelius 16mm

Franklin Sports
C45 Aurelius 16mm
$230
7.6–8 oz · 16mm core · Elongated
Pickle's 5-axis score
Based on published specs, ranked against all 320 paddles we cover. Diff highlighted when one paddle leads by 0.5+ points.
Engage Alpha Pro vs Franklin Sports C45 Aurelius 16mm across five scored traits: Power, Hand speed, Forgiveness, Touch, Spin.
Comparing two is a start. Answer five quick questions and we'll rank the whole catalog for how you play.
Find my paddleReach vs. maneuverability
Franklin Sports C45 Aurelius 16mm trades a touch of maneuverability for more reach at the line; Engage Alpha Pro is easier to whip around in hand fights.
Side-by-side specs
| Spec | Engage Alpha Pro | Franklin Sports C45 Aurelius 16mm |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.8–8.2 oz | 7.6–8 oz |
| Shape | Multiple | Elongated |
| Core thickness | 16mm | 16mm |
| Core material | Polymer honeycomb | — |
| Face material | Carbon fiber | T700 carbon fiber peel ply at 45-degree angle |
| Handle length | 5.25" | 5.1" |
| Price | $199.99 | $230 |
What the spec differences mean
- Weight. Engage Alpha Pro is listed at 7.8–8.2 oz; Franklin Sports C45 Aurelius 16mm at 7.6–8 oz. At the low end of each listed range, the Franklin Sports C45 Aurelius 16mm is 0.2 oz lighter. How paddle weights compare across our catalog
- Handle length. Engage Alpha Pro has a 5.25" handle; Franklin Sports C45 Aurelius 16mm has a 5.1" handle, so the Engage Alpha Pro handle is 0.15" longer. What grip length changes
- Face material. Engage Alpha Pro lists its face as Carbon fiber; Franklin Sports C45 Aurelius 16mm lists T700 carbon fiber peel ply at 45-degree angle. Paddle face materials explained
Who each paddle is for
Engage Alpha Pro
Best for 3.5+ players who prioritize control and reach who play with a balanced two-handed/one-handed mix. The standard shape rewards clean contact, the 16mm core gives you a soft touch window, and the face surface keeps spin honest without overdoing it.
Playing style: balanced
Franklin Sports C45 Aurelius 16mm
Best for 3.0+ players who want a forgiving control feel who play with a balanced two-handed/one-handed mix. The elongated shape extends your reach at the kitchen line, the 16mm core gives you a soft touch window, and the raw textured carbon face holds spin on rolls and resets.
Playing style: all-court
These two play alike.
Pick on price, feel or looks.
More matchups with the Engage Alpha Pro
More matchups with the Franklin Sports C45 Aurelius 16mm
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
