CRBN-1X vs Six Zero Double Black Diamond — Spin & Pop Showdown (2025)

Updated August 2025

Two names dominate the conversations when it comes to raw carbon paddles: the CRBN-1X vs Six Zero Double Black Diamond (DBD). Both are hyped for their spin, pop, and pro level performance, but they deliver those traits in very different ways.

If you’re wondering whether to go with the established CRBN, known for stability and dwell time, or the newer Six Zero, which promises grit and explosive pop, this breakdown gives you the side by side you need.

Quick Comparison

CRBN-1X Power Series

The CRBN-1X has been around long enough to prove itself. Its thermoformed body with foam-injected edges makes it one of the most solid raw carbon paddles available. Players who lean on resets, blocks, and longer rallies appreciate its consistent response.

Play Feel: Stable and balanced, with a softer dwell compared to other raw carbons. Drives have weight behind them, but the paddle shines most in control exchanges and defensive situations.

Best For: All court players and doubles specialists who value forgiveness, stability, and comfort without giving up too much power.

Specs:

• Surface: Raw T700 carbon fiber
• Core: 14mm or 16mm polypropylene
• Build: Thermoformed with foam-injected perimeter
• Shape: Elongated
• Known For: Stability, dwell time, spin consistency

Six Zero Double Black Diamond (DBD)

The Double Black Diamond has been the “newcomer paddle” of 2025, quickly carving a space in the raw carbon market. It’s built for spin first, with one of the grittiest surfaces you’ll find, and the ball really jumps off the face.

Play Feel: Lively and fast, with poppy response especially in the 14mm version. Excellent for aggressive rolls, slices, and attacking volleys, though less forgiving when you need touch.

Best For: Players who thrive on spin and aggression, particularly singles players and hard hitting doubles attackers.

Specs:

• Surface: Gritty raw carbon face
• Core: 14mm or 16mm
• Build: Traditional (non-thermoformed)
• Shape: Elongated
• Known For: Surface bite, pop, swingweight

Design & Build Quality

The CRBN-1X Power uses a thermoformed process with foam-injected edges, giving it a solid, durable frame. This makes the paddle resistant to warping while improving torsional stability, which helps on off-center hits.

The Six Zero DBD, on the other hand, prioritizes spin. Its raw carbon face is rougher than most, giving the ball a sharp bite on contact. While this grit is fantastic for spin generation, it may wear faster, especially for players who grind outdoors on hard balls.

Spin & Surface Grit

Both paddles generate serious spin, but they do it differently.

• CRBN-1X: Creates spin through longer dwell time, meaning the ball lingers on the face slightly longer. This makes spin more controlled and predictable.
• Six Zero DBD: Generates spin through grit and surface friction. It’s aggressive out of the gate, producing sharp angles and bite on the ball.

If you like precision spin for resets and dinks, the CRBN wins. If you want explosive topspin and wicked slices, the Six Zero has the edge.

Power & Pop

Power is where both shine, but with different personalities.

• CRBN-1X: The foam-injected walls give it stability, making power feel controlled and heavy rather than reckless. Drives come off the paddle with authority, but you don’t feel like the ball is flying out of control.
• Six Zero DBD: The 14mm model in particular is extremely poppy. The ball comes off hot and fast, which is great for finishing points but less forgiving for players who struggle with touch.

If you want stable drives, go CRBN. If you want quick fire pop, the Six Zero is your weapon.

Control & Dwell Time

This is where the CRBN pulls ahead. Its slightly softer dwell time makes it easier to reset at the net, soften balls in the kitchen, and execute delicate placements.

The Six Zero DBD’s 14mm version is less forgiving on touch shots. The 16mm model helps balance that, but the paddle still skews aggressive. Players who like to slow the game down may find CRBN the easier option.

Comfort & Vibration

Raw carbon paddles can be harsh, but the CRBN-1X has an edge thanks to its foam-injected perimeter. This reduces vibration, making it easier on wrists and elbows.

The Six Zero DBD feels stiffer, and while some players love the feedback, those with joint concerns might find it harsher.

Who They’re Best For

• CRBN-1X Power Series
  Best for all-court players who want a balanced mix of spin, power, and control. Great for doubles specialists, control-first players, and those who value stability.
• Six Zero Double Black Diamond
  Best for aggressive attackers, spin junkies, and players who thrive on pop. Singles players and baseliners will especially love its bite and explosiveness.

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Verdict: Which Wins?

This matchup doesn’t have a single winner—it depends on how you play.

• If you’re a power/control hybrid who values resets and stability, the CRBN-1X Power Series is your best bet.
• If you’re an aggressive shot maker who wants every drive and topspin roll to explode off the paddle, the Six Zero DBD is the more exciting choice.

Both paddles sit firmly in the top tier of 2025 gear, and either one could become your go-to depending on whether you prioritize dwell and stability or raw pop and spin.

Still can’t choose? Try our Paddle Fit Quiz & get personalized picks in under a minute

FAQ — CRBN-1X vs Six Zero Double Black Diamond