I was excited to see if the PCKL Pro Series 16 could provide higher-level players the same caliber of performance and value as the PCKL beginner-friendly Launch Series, which I even chose as my top budget choice in my 2025 list of the best pickleball paddles.
After trying the PCKL Pro Series 16 on the court for more than two weeks, I’m prepared to offer my honest review. To complete details on how it functions in important areas including power, control, spin, and more, continue reading.
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Buy or pass?
Buy if:
✅ You don’t want to spend $250: This paddle rivals the JOOLA Perseus in performance but costs 35% less.
✅ You’re looking for an all-court paddle: It offers an excellent balance of power, spin, and control, making it versatile for various playing styles.
✅ You’re upgrading to an intermediate paddle: Rising beginners and new intermediates will appreciate its user-friendly design.
Pass if:
❌ You want a pure power paddle: Consider the Bread & Butter Filth for unmatched power.
❌ You’re an advanced player: The paddle lacks the stability and responsiveness of high-end options like the CRBN-1X.
❌ You’re willing to spend over $160: For just $20 more, the Six Zero DBD—our favorite paddle of 2024—is a superior choice
| Specification | Details |
| Paddle Weight | 8.1 oz |
| Paddle Length | 16 ¼” |
| Paddle Width | 7 ½” |
| Handle Length | 5 ½” |
| Grip Circumference | 4 ⅕” |
| Paddle Face Material | Toray T700 raw carbon fiber |
| Core Material | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Core Thickness | 16 mm (0.63″) |
| Sweet Spot | Medium-Large |
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Review Summary
The PCKL Pro Series 16 is a great option for advanced beginners or early intermediate players since it combines power, control, and spin to produce a well-rounded performance. It provides a realistic sense that could improve gameplay and boost winnings.
In touch shots, the paddle excels, offering superb control. It makes it possible to execute drop shots consistently and with few mistakes, especially higher-level topspin drops.
It produces remarkable pop and power even if it is the 16 mm control model. Putaways and hard drives are dependable and consistent, which improves aggressive play.
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Because of its bare carbon face, the spin capacity is a notable feature. Its performance is on par with that of premium paddles such as the CRBN-3X Power Series.
Compared to other top-tier 16 mm thermoformed paddles like the Bread & Butter Filth and the Six Zero DBD Control, it has a little less power. Volleys sometimes failed to reach the desired depth, while several putaways lacked force.
Although it is comfortable on the court, it is not as responsive or stable as high-end paddles like the CRBN-1 X Power Series. Compared to other raw carbon paddles, mishits were more common in fast kitchen exchanges.
Even while it lacks the distinctive feel of paddles like the DBD Control, the PCKL Pro Series 16 is a solid, well-made choice that allows for a competitive and full game. For players who want to enhance their gear without going over budget, it’s a great option. It faces competition from high-end paddles like the JOOLA Perseus.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight and maneuverable | A bit sluggish in kitchen exchanges |
| Still packs a punch | Sweet spot not super large, leading to some mishits |
| Great all-court performance | Not as powerful or controlled as some thermoformed paddles |
Features
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Advanced Design Evolution
I was interested to see how PCKL’s advanced product would perform after their user-friendly Launch Series paddle pleased many. The PCKL Pro Series 16 fulfilled my expectations for improved performance together with the same user-friendliness.
Thermoformed & Unibody Construction
Power and stiffness are two qualities that thermoformed paddles are renowned for, and the PCKL Pro Series 16 excels in both. It strikes hard without being uncomfortably hard. Over time, flex or bending is prevented by the unibody construction, which improves longevity by allowing the face material to seamlessly extend into the grip..
Edge Foam Injection
This growing feature helps to decrease mishits by increasing the sweet area and improving stability. In contrast to more expensive solutions like the CRBN Power Series, I found the PCKL Pro Series to be a little less responsive and steady. With thermoformed raw carbon fiber paddles, I had more mishits than usual during quick kitchen exchanges.
Raw Carbon Fiber Face
The paddle’s Toray T700 raw carbon fiber face offers excellent spin, thanks to its built-in texture. While it doesn’t match the spin potential of the Legacy Pro, it’s more than adequate for intermediate players looking to elevate their game.
Extended Shape for Reach & Power
This paddle’s elongated shape fits the dimensions of models such as the CRBN-1X, JOOLA Perseus, and Volair Mach 1. For players who prefer two-handed backhands, the longer face and handle length is perfect since it increases reach and allows for the production of more forceful strokes.
For advanced players, I thought this option was really appealing. But if you’re worried about mishits or want a more forgiving design, think about a regular paddle like the CRBN-2X.
| Performance Category | Rating |
| Power | 8/10 |
| Control | 8/10 |
| Spin | 8/10 |
| Forgiveness | 8/10 |
| Weighting | 9/10 |
| Grip | 8/10 |
| Durability | 8/10 |
| Aerodynamics | 7/10 |
Performance Ratings
Power: 8/10
The PCKL Pro Series 16 has a remarkable amount of power for a 16 mm control paddle. Putaways, hard drives, and topspin serves all offer the superior performance you would anticipate from a premium carbon fiber paddle priced between $220 and $250, most likely as a result of the thermoformed structure. It is somewhat hampered by the fact that some putaways failed. You could be better off with the Bread & Butter Filth or DBD Control at this pricing range if raw power is your top priority.
Control: 8/10
Control is where this paddle shines. It excels at finesse shots, especially topspin third-shot drops that land precisely at opponents’ feet, thanks to its soft feel, lightweight build, and reliable spin. These qualities also make it highly effective for touch shots like dinks and drops during longer rallies. While not as plush or controlled as the Vatic Pro Flash, this paddle still delivers great versatility and user-friendliness.
Spin: 8/10
The paddle isn’t a dedicated spin machine, but its Toray T700 raw carbon fiber face provides enough spin to enhance your game. Hard topspin serves and drives performed reliably, and though I didn’t test backspin or sidespin extensively, there’s no reason to doubt its capability in those areas.
Forgiveness: 8/10
Despite being a thermoformed, elongated paddle—similar to the less-forgiving JOOLA Perseus—this paddle offers a surprising level of forgiveness. While the sweet spot isn’t particularly large, mishits were relatively rare during testing, giving it an edge over comparable designs.
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Weighting: 9/10
The weight distribution is a standout feature. At 8.1 oz, the paddle strikes a great balance between being light enough for net play and maneuverability while still providing enough heft for powerful shots. It won’t leave you fatigued, even in aggressive games.
Grip: 8/10
The grip feels premium and comfortable, even during intense sessions in challenging conditions like Phoenix’s extreme heat. While the white grip looks sleek, it’s a point of concern for many players who worry about it getting dirty over time.
Durability: 8/10
The build quality feels premium, with high-grade materials and an edge guard for added protection. It’s expected to last just as long as some higher-priced paddles.
Aerodynamics: 7/10
Aerodynamics is one area where the paddle falls short. Without any specific aerodynamic technology, it felt sluggish at times, particularly in fast-paced kitchen exchanges where quicker reactions are critical.
Pricing
Currently priced at $160, the PCKL Pro Series 16 sits between two other strong paddles: the Legacy Pro ($150) and the Bread & Butter Filth ($165). It’s also the same price as the Volair Mach 1, a highly rated all-court paddle. So, how does it measure up in terms of value?
Comparison with Other Paddles
| Paddle Model | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|
| PCKL Pro Series 16 | Balanced all-court play | $160 |
| Bread & Butter Filth | Pure power | $165 |
| Six Zero DBD Control | Control & stability | $180 |
| JOOLA Perseus | High-end performance | $250 |
| Volair Mach 1 | Versatility & reach | $160 |
| Legacy Pro | Budget-friendly performance | $150 |
Value for Money
The PCKL Pro Series 16 provides excellent value, in my opinion. Although the $250 JOOLA Perseus and the Pro Series 16 are nearly identical on paper, I found the latter to be more forgiving and easier to use. I think this paddle will be more enjoyable for the typical player right out of the box than the Perseus.
There are alternative paddles in this price range that are more appropriate for my playing style. The Bread & Butter Filth is a better fit for me because I like more power. More power, a wider sweet spot, and more dynamic performance are all provided by the Six Zero DBD Control, which costs only $20 more.
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But if you’re spending $160 on a good all-court paddle, the PCKL is a great choice. Pro Series 16 or the Volair Mach 1. I do believe the PCKL will likely outlast the Volair. Additionally, if you’re a newer intermediate player, the PCKL Pro might be a better option than the Mach 1.
Bottom Line
If you’re ready to step up from your beginner paddle, the PCKL Pro Series 16 is an excellent improvement. With the strength and longevity of a thermoformed structure and enough control to help you improve your game, it’s one of the easiest thermoformed paddles I’ve ever used.
For advanced beginners and early intermediates, I would still suggest the PCKL Pro Series 16, even if I believe the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash is a superior upgrading option overall (and less expensive at $100). It performs quite well, and I believe it will be a dependable and durable paddle.
