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Paddle Comparison

APL Starion vs Maverix Havik Pro X

The APL Starion (SW 116.4) and Maverix Havik Pro X (SW 116.91) sit 0.51 swing-weight points apart — close enough that shape, feel, and price become the real differentiators. The Maverix Havik Pro X also has the wider sweet spot — TW 6.47 versus 5.93 — meaning more forgiveness on off-center hits. Shape adds another dimension: the Starion is elongated, the Havik Pro X is hybrid, which changes reach, kitchen feel, and sweet-spot position. On price, the Maverix Havik Pro X is $61 less expensive after the PLAYBOOK discount.

Who wins on what

Power

Maverix Havik Pro X

Higher Swing Weight (power) (116.4 vs 116.91, +0.51)

Hand Speed

APL Starion

Lower Swing Weight (hand speed) (116.4 vs 116.91)

Sweet Spot / Forgiveness

Maverix Havik Pro X

Higher Twist Weight (forgiveness) (5.93 vs 6.47, +0.54)

Value

Maverix Havik Pro X

Lower effective price ($179.99 vs $118.99, with PLAYBOOK)

Side-by-side specs

Brand

APL
Maverix

Model

Starion
Havik Pro X

Shape

Elongated
Hybrid

Thickness

16mm
15mm

Weight

8.0 oz
8.2 oz

Swing Weight

116.4
116.91

Twist Weight

5.93
6.47

Play Style

power
—

Retail Price

$179.99
$139.99

Discount

—
15% (PLAYBOOK)

Effective Price

$179.99
$118.99

APL

Starion

$179.99

Maverix

Havik Pro X

$118.99 (was $139.99)

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Which paddle should you buy?

Pick the APL Starion if…

  • Your game leans power — this is tuned for that style.
  • You prefer the elongated shape — different feel/reach/sweet-spot profile from the hybrid.

Pick the Maverix Havik Pro X if…

  • You want a bigger sweet spot — TW 6.47 is more forgiving on off-center hits.
  • You're price-conscious — about $61 cheaper after PLAYBOOK discount.
  • You prefer the hybrid shape — different feel/reach/sweet-spot profile from the elongated.

Frequently asked questions

Is the APL Starion or the Maverix Havik Pro X better for power?

The Maverix Havik Pro X generates more power — SW 116.91 vs 116.4 on the APL Starion, a 0.51-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 Maverix Havik Pro X?

The Maverix Havik Pro X is more forgiving with a twist weight of 6.47 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 Maverix Havik Pro X?

With the PLAYBOOK discount code, the APL Starion is $179.99 and the Maverix Havik Pro X is $118.99. The Maverix Havik Pro X is $61.00 cheaper. Apply PLAYBOOK at checkout on either brand's site to get the discount.

How does the shape difference affect how the APL Starion and Maverix Havik Pro X play?

The APL Starion's elongated shape delivers extra reach and a higher sweet spot — better for drives, resets, and transition-zone play. The Maverix Havik Pro X's hybrid gives a balance of reach and maneuverability — versatile for both the kitchen and the baseline. For players who live at the kitchen line, that shape distinction often matters more than a 1–2 point SW difference.

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