Franklin Signature Pro Review - Ben Johns Technology at Budget Price (2025)
Ben Johns technology at an unbeatable price - the perfect starter paddle with MaxGrit textured surface and legitimate performance for under $40
Quick Verdict
⭐ Overall Assessment: 4.5/5 | ⭐ Value Rating: 10/10
The Franklin Signature Pro Series proves you don't need to spend $200+ for quality pickleball equipment. Featuring technology from Ben Johns' professional paddles and a USAPA-approved design, this paddle delivers genuine performance at an incredible price point.
Best For: Complete beginners, kids, budget-conscious players testing pickleball interest
Avoid If: Tournament players, advanced players seeking premium features, power baseliners
Price Range: $35.99 - $39.99 (Budget Tier)
Performance Breakdown
Power: 4.2/5 ⚡
Impressive pop for the price. The composite face generates good drive power while maintaining control for beginners.
Control: 4.7/5 🎯
Excellent control characteristics that help new players develop proper technique and ball placement.
Spin: 4.3/5 🌪️
MaxGrit textured surface provides solid spin generation - remarkable for a budget paddle.
Durability: 4.0/5 🛡️
Good construction for the price point. May show wear faster than premium paddles but excellent value.
Who Should Buy This Paddle?
✅ Perfect For:
- Complete beginners testing interest in pickleball
- Kids and teens learning the sport
- Budget-conscious players wanting quality under $40
- Backup paddle for experienced players
- Gift giving - low risk, high reward option
❌ Not Ideal For:
- Tournament competitors needing premium features
- Advanced players (4.0+) seeking maximum performance
- Power players wanting aggressive baseline play
- Long-term investment seekers (will likely upgrade)
Detailed Analysis
Feel & Touch
Surprisingly responsive for the price point. The paddle provides good feedback and helps beginners understand the difference between clean hits and mishits.
Maneuverability
Lightweight and easy to handle. The balance point works well for developing proper swing mechanics.
Sound
Produces a pleasant "pop" sound that's not too loud but gives satisfying feedback on contact.
Specifications
| Spec | Details | |------|---------| | Weight | 7.5-8.3 oz | | Length | 15.5" | | Width | 8.0" | | Grip Length | 4.5" | | Grip Circumference | 4.25" | | Core | Polymer Honeycomb | | Surface | MaxGrit Composite | | Edge Guard | Standard protective bumper | | USAPA Approved | Yes |
Comparison to Alternatives
vs. Vatic Pro Prism Flash
- Vatic has carbon fiber (premium), Franklin has composite
- Franklin much cheaper, Vatic better long-term value
vs. Wilson Energy Pro
- Similar price range and performance
- Franklin has Ben Johns tech, Wilson has brand recognition
vs. Generic $20 paddles
- Franklin significantly better build quality and performance
- Worth the extra $15-20 investment
The Ben Johns Connection
This paddle incorporates technology from Ben Johns' Triple Crown winning paddle design, making it a legitimate performance option rather than just a cheap paddle.
Final Thoughts
The Franklin Signature Pro Series is the perfect entry point into pickleball. At under $40, it removes the financial barrier while providing genuine quality that will help rather than hinder your learning curve.
Bottom Line: If you're new to pickleball or buying for someone who is, this paddle offers incredible value and proven performance.
Where to Buy
Ready to get started with the Franklin? Check current pricing and availability:
Check Amazon Pricing → | Compare at Dick's Sporting Goods →
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Last updated: January 2025