Honolulu pickleball paddles continue to impress me, and I knew that I had to compete the J2K vs the J2NF to see whether the 2024 best pickleball paddle of the year could compete against the J2NF, the newly crowned best pickleball paddle you can buy.
I spoke with the CEO of Honolulu pickleball shortly before writing this article, and he mentioned the incredible journey to get into pickleball paddles. In addition, the team provides a generous Honolulu discount code to my readers with code pickleballer20 that reduces the cost of the J2NF by nearly $20. Just a heads up, I get a small commission from using my discount code that helps me purchase paddles and share reviews with you. That said, please never feel that you have to use my link as I want you to enjoy the content regardless.
Let me start with first impressions, playability differences, cost considerations, paddle specifications and which one should you purchase.
First Impressions
First impressions are everything, and Honolulu pickleball always does a decent job. Both paddles do not come in a box, but I will say that both paddles come with a nice paddle cover with the clip that allows you to clip it at the pickleball courts. I 100% appreciate that.
Here’s a picture of both covers:
You’ll notice that each paddle cover is customized to which paddle you purchased.
In terms of the look, I really like how both paddles look and feel. The sword and shield component is fun, and I am a Christian so I appreciate the little subtle things.
The paddles look great, but let’s discuss playability differences as that’s most important.
Playability Differences
I would argue that both Honolulu J2K and J2NF are both very solid paddles, but it felt that the J2NF played a little better in every category, including control, power, and spin.
It was 100% a step above, and I would pick the J2NF 99 out of 100 times. That said, we will cover the cost differences after code as that would be the 1 time I would choose the J2K.
So, I would normally cover the differences between control, spin and power, but the J2NF just wins. I felt so much control on all of my shots, and I only lost maybe 2 out of 20 dink paddles.
In terms of power, I had effortless power from the baseline and on my forehands and backhands. I also felt that I had much more spin with the J2NF on my knuckle serves, but also with my slices and top spin.
The J2NF is incredible, and blew the J2K out of the water.
Cost Considerations
Before the 10% discount code PICKLEBALLER20, the Honolulu J2K pickleball paddle is $155. That said the Honolulu J2NF pickleball paddle is $195 before using the discount code.
So, before discounts, the J2NF is $40 more than the J2K. Unfortunately, neither of these paddles you can purchase on Amazon, but I received my paddles in around 2 days, similar to Amazon Prime.
10% Discount Code: Pickleballer20
Check out my recent video where I competed the J2K vs the J2NF and other best pickleball paddles.
Paddle Specifications
Per the website, here are the J2NF’s specifications:
- Surface Material: Carbon Fiber (CFC)
- Paddle Type: Aero Hybrid Plus Shape
- Length: 16.2″
- Width: 7.8″
- Grip Length: 5.5″ (original J2) or 6″ (extended J2) – measurement includes tapered area above the rubber band and grip wrap
- Grip Circumference: 4.125″
- Core: Multi-Density Foam
- Core Thickness: 16mm
- Warranty: 1 year
- Technology: Connected Reflex Technology™
- Player Level: Advanced beginners to pro-level players
- Playing Style: Designed for players seeking faster hand speed, enhanced power, spin, a large sweet spot, and consistent control
- Weight Range: Midweight
- Average Weight: 8.0 – 8.3 oz
- Swing Weight: 110 – 114
- Twist Weight: 7
Here are the J2K’s specifications:
- Surface Material: 100% Aramid Fiber – DuPont™ Kevlar®
- Construction: Thermocompression forming, perimeter balanced
- Paddle Type: Aero Hybrid Plus Shape
- Length: 16.2″
- Width: 7.8″
- Grip Length: 5.5″ (measurement includes tapered area above the rubber band and grip wrap)
- Grip Circumference: 4.125″
- Core: Premium Polypropylene
- Core Thickness: 16mm
- Warranty: 6 months
- Technology: Connected Reflex Technology™
- Player Level: Average beginners to pro-level players
- Playing Style: Suited for players seeking faster hand speed, enhanced power, spin, a large sweet spot, and reliable control
- Weight Range: Midweight
- Average Weight: 8.0 – 8.4 oz
- Swing Weight: 113
- Twist Weight: 7.05
As you can see below, both my J2K and J2NF weight 8.1 ounces which is within the range of the website’s specifications.
Which Paddle Should You Choose?
If budget isn’t a concern, the J2NF is the superior all-around performer. It elevates power, pop, and spin through its innovative foam core and CFC surface, all while delivering fast hands, stability, and durability. Its build and feel make it tournament-ready right out of the box.
If you’re budget-conscious, the J2K gives excellent value. For $155 (or about $139.50 after the 10% off) you get a Kevlar-face paddle that excels in control and spin, with a large sweet spot, which perfect for strategic players who prioritize precision and feel.
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