If you've been searching for a paddle that punches well above its price point, the Facolos Elite X pickleball paddle deserves a serious look. Available in both 14mm and 16mm core thicknesses, this paddle gives players a genuine choice between two distinct play styles without sacrificing build quality. We spent several weeks hitting with both versions on the court, and in this Facolos Elite X review, we break down exactly what makes each one tick — and which one belongs in your bag.
Build Quality and Materials: What Both Versions Share
Before we dive into the Facolos Elite X 14mm vs 16mm comparison, let's cover the DNA these two paddles share. Both versions are built on the same platform, using premium materials that you'd typically find in paddles costing significantly more.
T700 Carbon Fiber Face
The hitting surface on both models uses a T700 carbon fiber face with a high-grit texture. This means exceptional spin generation on serves, dinks, and third-shot drops. The raw, textured surface grabs the ball in a way that smooth-faced paddles simply cannot match. Whether you're ripping a topspin drive or slicing a backhand drop, the T700 face gives you confidence that the ball will bite.
ElasticPP Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
At the heart of both paddles sits an ElasticPP polypropylene honeycomb core — the same core technology used by several high-end manufacturers. The honeycomb structure provides an excellent balance of power and control, while the polypropylene material delivers a responsive feel on contact. It keeps the paddle lightweight without compromising durability.
Next-Gen EVA Edge Guard
Facolos also equipped both versions with a next-gen EVA edge guard. Unlike traditional hard plastic guards that can deaden shots hit near the edge, this EVA-based guard maintains a more consistent feel across the entire paddle face. It also adds a layer of protection against ground scrapes and accidental impacts, extending the paddle's lifespan without adding unnecessary weight.
Both the 14mm and 16mm versions are USAPA approved, so you can confidently use either one in sanctioned tournament play.
The 14mm Version: Speed, Touch, and Finesse
The Facolos Elite X 14mm is the thinner of the two options, and it plays exactly the way you'd expect from a slimmer core. Picking it up, the first thing you notice is the lighter swing weight. It feels quick in the hand and easy to maneuver at the kitchen line.
On the court, the 14mm shines in these areas:
- Faster hand speed — The lighter weight and thinner profile translate directly into quicker reaction time during fast exchanges. The 14mm gives you that extra split second to get your paddle in position.
- Superior touch and feel — Dinking with the 14mm feels precise and deliberate. You get more direct feedback from the ball, making it easier to place soft shots exactly where you want them.
- Better maneuverability — Quick flicks, backhand counters, and snap volleys all feel more natural with the thinner core. If your game relies on finesse and deception, the 14mm rewards that style.
The trade-off? You give up a bit of raw power on drives and some forgiveness on off-center hits. But for players who value control and speed over brute force, this version is hard to beat.
The 16mm Version: Power, Stability, and Forgiveness
Step up to the Facolos Elite X 16mm and the difference is immediately noticeable. The thicker core gives the paddle a more solid, planted feel. It doesn't feel sluggish by any means, but there's a heft and stability that the 14mm doesn't quite match.
Here's where the 16mm excels:
- More power on drives and serves — The thicker honeycomb core stores and releases more energy on full swings. If you like to drive the ball from the baseline or put away overheads with authority, the 16mm delivers noticeably more pop.
- Larger effective sweet spot — With more core material, the 16mm is more forgiving on off-center hits. Shots that would feel dead or unpredictable on a thinner paddle still come off clean and controlled.
- Better vibration dampening — The extra 2mm of core material absorbs more impact energy, resulting in a more comfortable feel during extended play sessions. If you've dealt with elbow or wrist issues, the 16mm is the friendlier option.
The compromise here is a slight reduction in hand speed and touch compared to the 14mm. But for many players, the added power and forgiveness more than make up for it.
Facolos Elite X 14mm vs 16mm: Head-to-Head Comparison
To help you decide, here's a direct breakdown of how the two versions compare across the key performance categories:
- Power: 16mm wins. The thicker core generates more pop on aggressive shots.
- Control: 14mm wins. The thinner profile provides more precise feedback and placement.
- Spin: Tie. Both use the same T700 high-grit carbon fiber face.
- Sweet spot: 16mm wins. The larger core creates a more forgiving hitting zone.
- Hand speed: 14mm wins. Lighter and more maneuverable in fast exchanges.
- Comfort: 16mm wins. Superior vibration dampening reduces arm fatigue.
- Touch: 14mm wins. Better feel on soft, finesse shots at the kitchen line.
Who Should Choose the 14mm?
The Facolos Elite X 14mm is ideal for players who prioritize control and finesse over raw power. If you identify with any of the following, the 14mm is likely your best match:
- You play a soft, strategic game built around dinks and drops
- You frequently engage in fast hands battles at the net
- You're a singles player who values quick lateral coverage
- You're transitioning from tennis and prefer a lighter, faster paddle
- You already generate plenty of power from your swing mechanics
Who Should Choose the 16mm?
The Facolos Elite X 16mm is the better fit for players who want power and forgiveness as their foundation. Consider this version if:
- You like to drive the ball and play an aggressive baseline game
- You want a larger sweet spot that's more forgiving on mishits
- You play doubles and rely on put-away volleys and overhead slams
- You've experienced arm fatigue or discomfort with thinner paddles
- You're a newer player who benefits from a more forgiving paddle
Final Verdict
The Facolos Elite X is an impressive paddle in both configurations. The T700 carbon fiber face delivers elite-level spin, the ElasticPP core provides a responsive and consistent feel, and the EVA edge guard rounds out a polished, tournament-ready package. Whether you go with the 14mm for speed and touch or the 16mm for power and stability, you're getting a paddle that competes with models at a much higher price point.
Still undecided? Ask yourself one question: do you live at the kitchen or dominate from the baseline? Touch players go 14mm. Power players go 16mm. Either way, the Facolos Elite X won't disappoint.
Where to Buy the Facolos Elite X
Tamforma is an authorized US dealer for Facolos paddles — authentic products with full manufacturer backing. We also offer free shipping on all orders over $75, so your new paddle arrives at no extra cost.
Ready to upgrade your game? Shop the Facolos Elite X Pickleball Paddle today and experience the difference premium materials make on the court. Browse our full pickleball paddle collection to find the perfect match for your play style.