Franklin Aurelius 12.7 Paddle Review: Ultra-Light Speed, Customization & Hidden Tradeoffs

Main Points

• Extremely low swing weight (around 92) makes this paddle ultra maneuverable and fast in hand
• Available in 12.7mm, 14mm, and 16mm thicknesses, all priced around $229
• Short handle (5.1”) and small grip size (4”–4 1/8”) limit comfort for two-handed backhands
• Stock performance lacks stability, plow-through, and a forgiving sweet spot
• Adding weight (especially at 3 and 9 o’clock) significantly improves performance
• Even after weighting, it remains maneuverable but gains better power and control balance
• Power is surprisingly moderate for a thin 12.7mm paddle unless customized
• Softer feel than expected for a thin Gen 3 paddle, though not fully plush
• Low launch angle requires adjustment, especially on drives and resets
• Best suited for players who prefer ultra-light paddles and enjoy customizing
• Not ideal for players seeking out-of-the-box performance or stability

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Summary

This video breaks down the Franklin Aurelius 12.7, a highly specialized pickleball paddle designed for a very specific type of player. With an extremely low swing weight, this paddle offers elite-level hand speed and maneuverability that few paddles on the market can match. However, that same defining feature also creates tradeoffs in stability, plow-through, and forgiveness—making it unsuitable for most players in stock form.

Out of the box, the paddle underperforms relative to expectations. Despite its thin 12.7mm profile, it doesn’t deliver the explosive power typically associated with that category. Instead, it plays more like an all-court paddle with a smaller sweet spot and noticeable instability during fast exchanges. The short handle and small grip size further narrow its appeal, especially for players who rely on a two-handed backhand.

Where the Aurelius truly shines is in customization. Adding weight—particularly along the sides—transforms the paddle, unlocking better power, improved stability, and a more usable sweet spot while still maintaining above-average maneuverability. This makes it an excellent option for players who enjoy fine-tuning their setup. Even so, it remains a control-demanding paddle that requires solid touch, especially in reset situations.

Overall, this paddle is best suited for a niche group of players who prioritize speed, prefer smaller grips, and are willing to customize their gear. For everyone else, there are more forgiving and better-performing paddles available at lower price points.

Source: Pickleball Studio | YouTube

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Tags: Anna Leigh Waters | Aurelius | Franklin | Pickleball Paddle Review | Pickleball Studio