Head Radical Elite vs Onix Z5 Graphite
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.
Head Radical Elite vs Onix Z5 Graphite 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 paddleClose call — here's the tiebreaker
Both paddles target balanced players — the choice comes down to feel and price.
Side-by-side specs
| Spec | Head Radical Elite | Onix Z5 Graphite |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8.1–8.1 oz | 7.5–8.2 oz |
| Shape | Widebody | Widebody |
| Core thickness | 13mm | 14mm |
| Core material | Polypropylene honeycomb | Nomex honeycomb |
| Face material | Fiberglass | Graphite |
| Handle length | 5.25" | 5" |
| Price | $79.95 | $89.99 |
What the spec differences mean
- Weight. Head Radical Elite is listed at 8.1 oz; Onix Z5 Graphite at 7.5–8.2 oz. At the low end of each listed range, the Onix Z5 Graphite is 0.6 oz lighter. How paddle weights compare across our catalog
- Core thickness. Head Radical Elite has a 13mm core; Onix Z5 Graphite has a 14mm core, so the Onix Z5 Graphite core is 1mm thicker. What core thickness changes
- Length and width. Head Radical Elite measures 16" × 7.88"; Onix Z5 Graphite measures 15.5" × 8.13". The Head Radical Elite is 0.5" longer. Paddle shapes and the size rule
- Handle length. Head Radical Elite has a 5.25" handle; Onix Z5 Graphite has a 5" handle, so the Head Radical Elite handle is 0.25" longer. What grip length changes
- Face material. Head Radical Elite lists its face as Fiberglass; Onix Z5 Graphite lists Graphite. Paddle face materials explained
- Core material. Head Radical Elite lists its core as Polypropylene honeycomb; Onix Z5 Graphite lists Nomex honeycomb. Paddle core materials explained
Who each paddle is for
Head Radical Elite
Best for advanced power players (4.0+) who can manage a hot face who play with a balanced two-handed/one-handed mix. The widebody profile gives you a generous sweet spot, the 13mm core delivers high pop with a tighter touch window, and the fiberglass face emphasizes pop over spin.
Playing style: balanced
Onix Z5 Graphite
Best for intermediate players (3.5-4.5) looking for a balanced upgrade who play with a balanced two-handed/one-handed mix. The widebody profile gives you a generous sweet spot, the 14mm core balances pop and control, and the face surface keeps spin honest without overdoing it.
Playing style: balanced
These two play alike.
Pick on price, feel or looks.
More matchups with the Head Radical Elite
More matchups with the Onix Z5 Graphite
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