CRBN 3X Power Series 16mm

What it is

The CRBN 3X is the hybrid-elongated paddle in CRBN's raw-carbon X-series (Power Series) — 16mm, unibody construction with foam-injected edge walls, a raw T700 carbon face, and the longest handle in the CRBN lineup at 5.25". It pushes the elongated format further than the 1X but with a lighter swingweight (119 vs the 1X's 123), so it feels quicker and more maneuverable despite the reach.

How it plays

This is the X-series paddle reviewers hand to almost everyone. It blends the elongated 1X's power and reach with the widebody 2X's forgiveness, landing on a genuine all-court feel: big power and spin on drives, a responsive pocket for resets, and enough sweet spot to survive off-center contact. For an intermediate player who wants one paddle that does everything, it's an easy call — multiple reviewers describe it as a level-raiser.

The generation question — read this

The honest context: the X-series is CRBN's previous-generation premium. The market (CRBN included) has moved to full-foam cores, and the community is candid that raw-carbon Power Series paddles are "not current tech." That is not the same as bad — the 3X is still an excellent paddle — but it does mean two things. Raw carbon grit wears and needs refreshing, and you're buying proven-but-older technology. The upside is price: now that foam is the flagship tier, a paddle this good at ~US$170 is arguably better value than it was at launch.

HK reality

SmashPoint lists it in Hong Kong; check current stock and price with the seller. Apply the SmashPoint discount and remember that the 5.25" handle is polarizing: this suits players who value proven all-court performance over the latest foam feel.

Bottom line

Recommended, and our pick of the CRBN X-series — the do-everything option that suits the widest range of players. Buy it if proven raw-carbon performance at a keen price appeals more than chasing the newest foam. If you want CRBN's current-generation feel, step up to the TruFoam Barrage or the Waves.