Onix Z3 Vs Z5 Pickleball Paddles

Are you in the market for a pickleball paddle and considering the Onix Z3 vs Z5?

If so, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve done a thorough comparison between both of these popular paddles to help you decide which one is best for your pickleball playing needs.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at both Onix Z3 and Z5 pickleball paddles to determine which one is best for you and your playing style.

We’ll cover materials, weight, balance, and grip size so you can make an informed decision when selecting your paddle.

So, read on for the head-to-head match-up of the Onix Z3 versus Z5.

Onix Z3 vs Z5 Pickleball Paddles: Which one is better?

You’re hooked on pickleball like us. We get it.

And now you have to have the best equipment.

You’re shopping for clothes, pickleball shoes, and paddles as well. As you have found out, there are so many pickleball paddles on the market.

One of the popluar makers of pickleball paddles is Onix.

If you have read Onix Z3 picklball paddle reviews or a Z5 pickleball paddle review, you know they are great paddles. These paddles are very similar too. The look and feel is just about the same. You will only notice some slight differences when playing.

Both of these models have great feel and provide an excellent amount of control for players at any level. But in the comparison of Onix Z3 vs Z5, what makes them different?

Onix Z3

Onix Z3

The Z3 is the newest line and is perfect for beginner and intermediate players who want great pop and touch with a light to mid-weight paddle.

This paddle is USAPA approved and has a composite face. The Onix Z3 has a medium-weight design that lets you deliver quick and powerful shots. It also has a unique polypropylene honeycomb core that helps reduce vibration and provides an excellent feel during play.

It has excellent maneuverability due to its wide body shape, as well as added comfort from its cushion tennis racket-like grip handle. The core also helps to make it durable enough to withstand long hours of play without losing its performance quality. Comes with an edge guard too.

Onix Z5

Onix Z5

The Z5 is Onix’s most popular paddle in its line up.

It provides great touch and control and is recommended for intermediate to advanced players looking for maximum power.

Also USAPA approved, its graphite face and wide body size offers more power when striking the ball. The nomex honeycomb core provides excellent control as well.

The Onix Z5 gives you a larger sweet spot for more powerful hits with its wide body. It also has a softer feel with its cushion grip tennis handle and unique nomex core which helps reduce vibration when playing. Comes with an edge guard too.


For design, both paddles come in bright and bold colors like pink, yellow, purple, blue etc. with attractive graphics. Very Fun!

Onix Z3 vs Z5 Pickleball Paddles: Comparison Chart

Onix Z3 Vs Z5 Pickleball Paddles
CriteriaZ3Z5
WeightMedium Weight (7.5-8.20oz)Medium Weight (7.5-8.2oz)
GripTennisTennis
FaceLarger Face(8.125 inches)Larger Face(8.125 inches)
MaterialComposite Face with Polypropylene CoreGraphite Face with Nomex Core
Comparison of Z3 and Z5

Some Major Differences Between Onix Z3 and Onix Z5

  • The Onix Z5 provides more power. The Onix Z3 is better for touch.
  • The Onix Z5 is made from strong graphite with a nomex honeycomb core making it ideal for players who need the extra power behind their shots. The Onix Z3, on the other hand, features a polypropylene honeycomb core that offers maximum durability and precise shot accuracy.
  • The Onix Z5 is a graphite paddle with a textured surface to increase spin. On the other hand, the Onix Z3 has a composite face and polypropylene for extra pop and touch during shots.

Pros and Cons of the Onix Z3 Pickleball Paddle

Onix Z3 Pros

  • Optimum Performance: The Onix Z3 Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for any new pickleball enthusiast. It’s designed for optimal performance, making it the perfect paddle for players just getting into the game.
  • Comfort: The Z3 is light to mid-weight and easy to maneuver, making it well-suited for both beginners and intermediate players alike.
  • Durability: One of the best features of this paddle is its durability. The Z3 utilizes an optimized polymer core that reduces shock and vibration while providing a solid feel when hitting a pickleball. This durable construction allows the user to play with confidence knowing their paddle won’t easily break or wear out over time.
  • Extreme Control: In addition to its durability, the Z3 also offers excellent pop and control over your shots thanks to its specially designed composite face surface.
  • Supreme Accuracy: This unique feature provides good ball spin with each strike which can greatly improve accuracy during gameplay.

Onix Z3 Cons

  • The Z3 pickleball paddle is slightly heavier than the Z5, so it might be a bit harder to maneuver for some players.
  • Another issue associated with this model is that some users find it uncomfortable because of its size and shape which can require an adjustment period to get used to.

Onix Z3 Pickleball Paddle – Composite Pickleball Paddles – USA Pickleball Approved Pickleball Rackets


Pros and Cons of the Onix Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle

Onix Z5 Pros

  • Performance: For those looking for an edge on the court, the Onix Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle comes highly recommended
  • Its comfortable grip gives players more confidence when they swing so they can focus on their technique without worrying about their hand slipping off
  • Durability: The Onix Z5 graphite incorporates a graphite face with Nomex honeycomb core. This unique combination provides superior strength while also maintaining flexibility to reduce shock when striking the ball. In addition, this advanced design also helps reduce vibration at impact which can lead to improved accuracy when playing pickleball
  • Power Control: The Onix Graphite Z5 features a lightweight graphite face that provides optimal energy transfer for maximum power. The handle is made to feel like a tennis grip, giving it a comfortable grip for better control on each shot
  • Accuracy: The Onix Z5 graphite pickleball paddle is a state-of-the-art pickleball paddle that delivers excellent accuracy and power. This graphite paddle features a wide body shape, which allows for greater accuracy and control when making shots.

Onix Z5 Cons

  • The Onix Z5 graphite pickleball paddle is slightly more expensive than the Z3
  • The Onix Z5 graphite Pickleball Paddle may be difficult for some players to use effectively.

FAQ

Is the Z5 a good paddle?

The answer lies in what kind of player you are. If you’re looking for a lightweight paddle that provides excellent power and spin, then yes – the Onix Z5 is a great choice. Its graphite construction makes it incredibly durable and its enlarged sweet spot ensures your shots can go further with more accuracy. Additionally, its unique shape gives you greater maneuverability so that your shots go where you want them to go.

Who makes the Z5 pickleball paddle?

Onix Sports, an outdoor gear company based in Wisconsin, has been manufacturing quality sporting goods since 1994. One of their top picks for pickleball is the Onix Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle – a lightweight paddle that provides excellent power and control to players at all levels. It is designed with graphite face technology to make it durable and long-lasting, while also providing maximum control with its wide body shape. The aluminum core ensures stability during each swing, giving you more accuracy when hitting shots.

Is the Onix Z3 a good paddle?

For pickleball players looking for a top-of-the-line paddle, the Onix Z3 is an excellent choice. Its combination of control, and spin is ideal for all levels of play. Crafted with a honeycomb graphite core and edge guard protection, this lightweight paddle offers great performance.

The Onix Z3 provides a larger sweet spot than most other paddles on the market. The paddle is comfortable to hold and offers great stability while playing.

The Onix Z3 is also designed with high-visibility colors which makes it fun for players to see their shots coming off the court surface.

Conclusion

So now that we have compared the Onix Z3 vs Z5 pickleball paddles, which one is right for you?

As you can see, they are extremely similar in look and feel. When you play with them you will notice slight differences. The price difference isn’t much either.

Both of these paddles are great options for players at any level and provide a great amount of control and feel. However, if you are a beginner or intermediate player who wants maximum touch potential with a mid-weight paddle, then the Onix Z3 is recommended for you. If you are an intermediate to advanced player looking for maximum power, the Onix Z5 would be the one to go for.

The Onix Z3, and Z5 Pickleball paddles are both excellent options when it comes to finding a quality paddle for pickleball.

No matter which paddle you choose, make sure to check the pickleball rules before before heading out there to enjoy a game!

So grab your pickleball bag and lets hit the court!

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