CPX MAX Series Pickleball Paddle Reviews

CPX Max

CPX Pickleball • Power • Elongated

Power Elongated USAP Legal
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CPX Max
Rating
9 (overall)
Price

$169.97

Discount code available
TANVIR80662
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Quick Summary

Best for

Aggressive intermediate and competitive players who want big power and heavy spin. The 14 mm core and raw T700 carbon face deliver explosive drives with enough touch for drops. The elongated 16.52" shape adds reach, and the 4.92" handle feels natural for players coming from tennis.

Standout

The first thing I felt was the spin and punch off the face. The raw carbon grabs the ball for heavy topspin, and the thermoformed build gives strong plow-through on drives and counters. At 8.2 oz it swings quick, and the honeycomb core keeps blocks and resets solid and stable.

Watch out

The elongated design pushes the sweet spot higher and makes mishits near the throat feel dead — a little lead tape at 3 and 9 helps. The 4.92" handle can feel short for two-handed backhands, and the stiff carbon face may be harsh for players with elbow sensitivity.

Buy if

  • You want tournament-ready power and big spin from a raw carbon face.

  • You like an elongated paddle for extra reach and leverage.

  • You prefer a punchy 14 mm core with a mix of pop and control.

  • You like a firm, tennis-style grip with minimal cushioning.

  • You want a tough, durable thermoformed build.

Pass if

  • You want a large, very forgiving sweet spot.

  • You rely on two-handed backhands, the 4.92″ handle may feel short.

  • You prefer a soft, plush feel instead of a stiff carbon response.

  • You’re sensitive to weight, 8.2 oz may feel tiring over long sessions.

  • You’re on a budget or just starting out.

Specs

Performance Ratings

Power9/10
9/10
Control7/10
7/10
Spin9/10
9/10
Forgiveness7/10
7/10
Weighting8/10
8/10
Grip8/10
8/10
Durability9/10
9/10
Aerodynamics8/10
8/10

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Raw T700 carbon face gives big power and heavy spin.

  • Well-balanced for drives, counters, and touch shots.

  • Thermoformed unibody feels solid and durable.

  • Comes with extras like a cover and edge tape (varies by purchase).

  • Firm, tennis-style leather grip feels secure in hand.

  • Multiple color options plus a trial and warranty.

Cons

  • Smaller sweet spot than wide-body paddles.

  • Short handle isn’t ideal for two-handed backhands.

  • Higher price than many similar thermoformed paddles.

  • Stiff face can send more vibration on mishits.

  • Slightly heavier than some 14 mm paddles.

What’s Actually Doing The Work

Raw T700 Carbon Surface

The face uses raw T700 carbon fiber that bites the ball for heavy topspin and slice while resisting delamination. You’ll feel the ball stick and roll off, especially on serves and roll volleys.

14 mm Drive‑Core with Foam‑Injected Walls

The 14 mm polypropylene honeycomb core, surrounded by foam‑injected edges, balances pop and control. It loads energy for drives yet dampens vibration for drops.

Thermoformed Unibody Construction

Molding the face and frame as a single unit stiffens the paddle and prevents delamination. This unibody design adds stability on counters and extends durability.

My setup tip

Add a strip of edge tape (included) and a few grams of lead tape at 3 & 9 o’clock to widen the sweet spot and increase stability. If you like a thicker handle, wrap an overgrip without lengthening it.

Durability note

After several weeks of play the raw carbon face and unibody frame showed no delamination or rattle. Wipe the surface regularly and store it in the included cover to keep the texture fresh.

Play Test Notes

Short, honest notes with hover lift for each card.

Spin Feel

Gritty carbon face produces heavy spin on serves and rolls.

Power Response

Drives and speed-ups pop off the face with little effort.

Touch & Drops

Small learning curve, but drops and resets feel controlled once dialed in.

Sweet Spot

Medium, foam edges help, but throat mishits feel dead.

Net Play

Quick, solid counters with extra reach from the elongated shape.

Handle Feel

Comfortable for one-handed play; short for two-hand backhands.

Overall Feel

Feels like a spin-heavier, more powerful CPX Ultra with a firmer response.

Alternatives

CPX ULTRA CPX ULTRA
$199.97 Type: All-Court Shape: Elongated
View Review

FAQs

Yes – it meets USA Pickleball’s specifications and is ready for sanctioned play
Players who want to maximize power and spin without giving up touch. Intermediate to advanced players will appreciate its pop and reach; beginners may find it less forgiving.
It typically includes a premium cover, edge tape and a matching keychain (varies by retailer).
4.92 inches, which suits one‑handed grips but may feel short for two‑handers.
The stiff carbon face transmits more feedback than softer paddles. If you have chronic elbow or wrist issues, consider a softer 16 mm control paddle.

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Use the code if it’s active and if this paddle isn’t your style, check alternatives above.

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Copy code:  TANVIR80662