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Gearbox CX14E Pickleball Paddle

Gearbox

Gearbox CX14E Pickleball Paddle

92Universal Acclaim

The Gearbox CX14E is widely praised as an excellent control paddle with exceptional softness, spin, and touch for finesse-oriented players. Most reviewers love its performance and build quality, though some note it requires an adjustment period and may lack power compared to other options; a few dissenting voices question whether it justifies its premium price.

Sentiment Breakdown

82 positive / 9 neutral / 9 negative

Pros

  • Exceptional control and touch for finesse players
  • Softest Gearbox paddle to date with excellent feel
  • Outstanding spin generation off the paddle
  • Large sweet spot and balanced design
  • Premium build quality and durability

Cons

  • Steep learning curve; requires adjustment period
  • Limited power output; may need lead tape
  • Premium price not justified for all players

What Reviewers Mention

Control
41% of reviews
Softness & Feel
32% of reviews
Power
23% of reviews
Spin
18% of reviews
Learning Curve
18% of reviews

Specifications

Weight8 oz
Core Thickness14 mm
Surface MaterialCarbon Fiber
ShapeElongated

Where to Buy

Most Recent Reviews: Showing 22 reviews

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Pickleheads

niche source

80Universal Acclaim

The Gearbox CX14E is a control paddle. It's well-suited to players who like a more traditional game with drops and dinks, but who also want a little more spin and performance than you'd typically get from a dedicated 'control' paddle. This is not a forgiving paddle, and it really takes getting used to—beginners and lower intermediates will likely struggle with it. Aggressive players won't like the lack of power either. This is definitely a paddle you either love or hate—it's really well built...

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

40Generally Unfavorable

Sent back: Did not like the handle and feel of this paddle

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Gearbox CX14E: In searching for a new paddle I reached out to the Pickleball clinic sight to ask for suggestions/recommendations. They were extremely helpful in narrowing down my choices. I had specific specs I was looking for and it was just a matter of getting and using the paddle in play. I had 2 and this is the one I chose. For the feel, the length and the control and the shock absorbency it gives me. I am still in the early stages of using it but I feel it's going to work very well f

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

80Universal Acclaim

Gearbox CX14: Quality paddle, many people like it that I have let try it.

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

CX14E: It’s balanced well, and feels good when I’m playing. It’s great at drives, resets, drops, blocks, and smashes. Even if there are better paddles out there. This is one of the best looking paddles I ever had lol. This feels a little bit heavier and thicker than my CX11E 7.8, but it feels great having this ready at the kitchen. The durability and craftsmanship is excellent. I definitely recommend this product. It’s great if you’re a gearbox fan but hitting the sweet spot is definitely a must

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Gearbox CX14E: I've been wanting to upgrade my paddle. I'm currently playing with a ProKennex Pro Speed II. So, I've been sampling about eight paddles and narrowed it down to the Gear box CX14E or the CRBN1 16mm. I went with the CX14, once you get use to the soft quiet feel, the control is unmatched. This paddle takes bullet shots and allows you to send back a perfect drop shot. It does take a few days to get acclimated to.

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

60Mixed or Average

Paddle: This paddle is no different then other Gearbox paddles. Although it is supposed to be less powerful and more accurate, I did not find that to be the case. The paddle is similar to many other paddles and not worth the money.

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

GearboxCX14E Pickleball Paddle: Really enjoying the control and feel of this paddle.

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Gearbox CX14E : Great paddle....getting use to takes a little time

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

If You're A Control Player, There Is No Better!: I was skeptical about any Gearbox paddle. Before this paddle, all their paddles were way too hard for any true short game player. But not this one!! If your game is finesse, angles and drop shots, run, don't walk, to try this paddle. This is by far, the softest paddle you can play today. And spin? Whoa, off the charts. It WILL take a week to ten days to get acclimated to this paddle. It is that different. In the beginning, most shots will be short

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

CX14E: I've used a wide variety of PB paddles in the 21/2 years since I first played the game. While it is the player more than the equipment; the paddle / balls etc do make a difference. In addition to my experience with the gearbox GX 6 7.8 control, the GX6 8.5 power and the CX14H additionally I have purchased and used paddles from Selkirk and others. I sold all my paddles except for the GX6 Power and the CX14E with the CX14E becoming my "go to" paddle for the balance between power and control

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Performance exceeded my expectations.: The quality of this paddle was immediately apparent and I’m very satisfied how it has helped my ability to control issues. Besides the fact that I just like the way it looks!

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Nice paddle: Service was excellent, paddle is perfect for touch and control. Not quite as much power as expected. Will probably add some lead tape.

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

My new favorite paddle: I play mostly singles and I have bounced from engage to onix and I thought I was going to end at the Prokennex but decided to do the paddle demo program and tried out the gearbox CX14E and knew this was absolutely a perfect match for my style of play especially in singles. I am absolutely thrilled with my purchase, the speed of delivery, and that it was available when I wanted it.

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Pickleball Product Review:

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Love my paddle: Excellent service and price. Plus, pickleball central supports my local pickleball group

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

80Universal Acclaim

Great paddle but went to the H model: Great quality paddle but I decided to go with the H version. Great elongated paddle though.

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Purchased new gearbox paddle: Love it.

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

great feeling, power and control:

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Great paddle : Initially purchased the CX11E. Felt it had dead spots towards the top of the paddle. Sent it back for the CX14E..really like it. Definitely much softer than any other Gearbox, but once I got used to it, really loved the touch game. Good paddle and might actually be worth the $$s!

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Nice paddle: Great combination of control and POP. Large sweet spot. Love this paddle.

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Pickleball Central

user_generated source

100Universal Acclaim

Gearbox CX14E : The next generation of great paddles from Gearbox .It is the softest , quietest, and best looking gearbox to date. It feels solid and provides plenty of power and spin.

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