The Engage X2 has been receiving some attention recently with their pro PPA players Jessie Irvine and Eric Oncins both making the switch. In Oncins’ case, the change has lined up with some of his best tournament results, which naturally has people asking what he’s playing with.
From a tech standpoint, the X2 uses a floating foam core design. There’s a firmer foam in the hitting zone for stability and power, a softer outer foam layer to add dwell time and feel.
The series is available in both elongated and widebody shapes. I tested the elongated version, which this review is based on.
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Affiliate disclosure: I was sent this paddle to test, but this review wasn’t paid for or approved by the brand. Everything here reflects my own testing and opinions. If you click the links on the page or use my discount codes, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you that supports my testing and reviews.
Quick Verdict: The Engage X2 is a really solid aggressive all-court paddle that leans into controlled power without getting overly jumpy. It has a dense, softer feel, pockets the ball well, and plays predictably across the board, which makes it easy to trust in matches. The balance of offense and control fits a wide range of players who want to stay aggressive but still need help slowing the ball down and avoiding pop-ups. At $260 before code, it sits in a premium tier, and the lack of a durable grit surface keeps it from checking every box compared to some competitors. Still, if you value feel, control, and usable offense over raw pop, this is a strong, well-rounded option.
| Paddle | Shape | Handle Length | Weight (oz) | Swing Weight | Twist Weight | Balance Point (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Elongated
|
5.5
|
8.26
|
120
|
6.35
|
242
|
Measurements are from my test unit and may vary. This one came in heavier than Engage’s listed 8.0 oz average.
Key Performance Traits
Based on my playtesting and power & pop tests I run, the X2 sits right on that line between an all-court and power paddle. You’ll probably hear mixed opinions on where it lands because it lives in that transition zone.
It pockets the ball well, but it’s not overly springy or “zingy.” Instead, you get a controlled pocket-and-release that helps with placement and consistency. It’s the kind of response that lets you stay aggressive without feeling like the paddle is getting away from you. You can swing out on drives and speed up the ball with confidence, but it still gives you enough dwell time to soften things up in resets and dinks.
The feel is dense and soft, with a launch angle that trends a little higher, but not to the point where it’s hard to manage. After a short adjustment period, it becomes an asset for shaping shots and creating margin over the net when attacking low balls. That added lift also helps when you’re slightly out of position or reaching.
At the kitchen, it plays pretty stable and predictable. It’s not the fastest or most maneuverable paddle, but the tradeoff is a more planted, controlled feel when blocking or redirecting pace.
The sweet spot is good for an elongated paddle and I never felt it getting in the way which is what you want.
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vs Six Zero Coral
The X2 plays in a very similar lane as the Coral but gives you a slight bump in offense. You’ll notice a bit more power and pop, along with a softer, more dense impact feel. It also tends to carry a bit more weight, which helps it drive through the ball with more stability. The Coral, on the other hand, has a more durable grit surface, which makes it a more appealing option from a long-term spin and value standpoint.
Six Zero Coral (code PBEFFECT) >>
vs Engage Alpha Pro
The X2 feels more dense and offers more pocketing. You get a higher top-end power ceiling with similar pop, but it comes with more overall weight.
The Engage X2 does a lot of things well. It delivers what you want from an aggressive all-court paddle: controlled power, a predictable response, and a pleasent, connected feel.
It’s also refreshing to see high-level players like Eric Oncins and Jessie Irvine having success with a paddle like this instead of going all-in on the most explosive, power-heavy options available.
The one hang-up for me is the price. At $260 ($234 with code PBEFFECT), you’re competing in a range where paddles are starting to check every box. And right now, the X2 is missing a durable grit surface, which some competitors like the Six Zero Coral are offering at lower price point.
However, while the X2 comes in at a higher price, Engage also offers one of the best warranty and return policies available, which makes buying with them easier and at a much lower risk compared to brands like Six Zero that don’t match Engage with their polices.
Best For Players Who
Less Ideal For Players Who
Reviewer Profile
Braydon Unsicker is the founder of Pickleball Effect and has been reviewing pickleball gear since 2020. He’s known for independent, data-backed paddle reviews and hands-on testing that help players cut through marketing claims and make smarter equipment decisions.
Affiliate disclosure: I was sent this paddle to test, but this review wasn’t paid for or approved by the brand. Everything here reflects my own testing and opinions. If you click the links on the page or use my discount codes, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you that supports my testing and reviews.
