Paddle Comparison
APL Starion vs Head Radical
The APL Starion (SW 116.4) and Head Radical (SW 118.67) sit 2.27 swing-weight points apart — close enough that shape, feel, and price become the real differentiators. The Head Radical also has the wider sweet spot — TW 6.46 versus 5.93 — meaning more forgiveness on off-center hits. On price, the Head Radical is $11 less expensive after the PLAYBOOK discount.
Who wins on what
Power
Head Radical
Higher Swing Weight (power) (116.4 vs 118.67, +2.27)
Hand Speed
APL Starion
Lower Swing Weight (hand speed) (116.4 vs 118.67)
Sweet Spot / Forgiveness
Head Radical
Higher Twist Weight (forgiveness) (5.93 vs 6.46, +0.53)
Value
Head Radical
Lower effective price ($179.99 vs $169.15, with PLAYBOOK)
Side-by-side specs
Brand
Model
Shape
Thickness
Weight
Swing Weight
Twist Weight
Play Style
Retail Price
Discount
Effective Price
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Which paddle should you buy?
Pick the APL Starion if…
- You want faster hands — lower SW (116.4 vs 118.67) means quicker maneuvering at the kitchen.
- Your game leans power — this is tuned for that style.
Pick the Head Radical if…
- You want more power — SW 118.67 is 2.27 points higher.
- You want a bigger sweet spot — TW 6.46 is more forgiving on off-center hits.
- You're price-conscious — about $11 cheaper after PLAYBOOK discount.
- Your game leans control — this is tuned for that style.
Frequently asked questions
Is the APL Starion or the Head Radical better for power?
The Head Radical generates more power — SW 118.67 vs 116.4 on the APL Starion, a 2.27-point gap that adds mass and momentum at contact. If you prioritize hand speed and maneuverability over raw power, the Starion's lower swing weight is the advantage.
Which paddle is more forgiving — the APL Starion or the Head Radical?
The Head Radical is more forgiving with a twist weight of 6.46 vs 5.93 on the APL Starion. Higher twist weight reduces energy loss on off-center hits, which matters most for kitchen-heavy players who take a lot of dinks and resets.
What is the price difference between the APL Starion and the Head Radical?
With the PLAYBOOK discount code, the APL Starion is $179.99 and the Head Radical is $169.15. The Head Radical is $10.84 cheaper. Apply PLAYBOOK at checkout on either brand's site to get the discount.
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