Nox AT10 Genius 18K vs 12K: 2027 vs 2026 Compared

Quick verdict: the 18K is the comfortable, all-round Genius, and the 12K Alum Xtrem is the firmer, more direct one. The 2027 models keep the same face materials and the same mold, but they are lighter in the head and easier on the arm.

The AT10 Genius is Agustín Tapia's line, and Tapia has been world No. 1 since 2023. At Padel Padel, it's one of the racket families we get asked about most. Here we compare the four round Genius models (not the diamond-shaped Attack versions): the 18K Alum 2026, the 18K Alum 2027, the 12K Alum Xtrem 2026 and the 12K Alum Xtrem 2027.

Specs side by side

The four rackets share almost everything on paper. The real differences are the face carbon (18K vs 12K), the core on the 12K, and where the weight sits in 2027.

What stays the same: the Genius platform

All four models are built on the same platform, which launched with the new 2026 mold.

• Very round teardrop mold: a big, central sweet spot. It stays forgiving when you're a little late on the ball.
• 100% carbon frame and aluminized carbon faces: the feel stays consistent when the temperature changes. That's a real advantage on outdoor courts, especially in the Miami heat.
• Dual Spin surface: 3D texture plus a silica-sand finish across the whole face for more spin.
• Weight Balance system: 2 g and 4 g counterweights in the handle, up to 8 g total, swappable without tools.
• EOS Tunnel: side perforations that make the racket more aerodynamic.
• Oversize handle (+30 mm), the patented Custom Grip®, and the SmartStrap, a wrist strap you can swap without tools.

18K vs 12K: two different personalities

The 18K is the comfortable, versatile Genius. The 12K Alum Xtrem is the firmest, most direct and most precise, and it's the one Tapia plays in competition.

The carbon. 12K Alum Xtrem carbon has 50% less fiber waviness than standard 12K, so the face transfers energy more directly. The aluminized 18K gives a solid, full feel with more cushioning. One common mistake: with Nox, the 18K is not the stiffer one. The 12K Xtrem is.

At the net. The 12K responds instantly and lets you place volleys with real precision, as long as your technique is clean. The 18K is more stable on off-center hits and more forgiving.

On defense. The 18K releases the ball more progressively, which makes deep lobs and blocks easier. The 12K demands more precision but gives technical players more control.

On the smash. The 12K has the edge for punch and finishing, especially for left-side players. The 18K still has plenty of power thanks to its variable-density MLD core. The difference is comfort, not a lack of power.

Arm comfort. If you're prone to padel elbow or play several matches a week, the 18K is the safer choice.

2027 vs 2026: what actually changed

The biggest change in 2027 is balance. The balance point moves toward the handle, so both rackets feel much lighter in the head while weighing exactly the same.

1. Faster in the hand. At the same weight (360–375 g), the 2027 models are quicker at the net and in fast reflex exchanges. The 2026 models keep a more "planted" feel, with more mass behind the ball.

2. A new core in the 12K. The 12K Alum Xtrem switches from HR3 Black EVA to the multilayer MLD Black EVA already used in the 18K. The ball sinks a little deeper into the face, so the response is softer and easier on the arm. The 18K keeps its core and gets slightly softer too.

3. The Vibration Control System (VCS). An elastomer bonded to the whole inner surface of the handle. Nox says it filters 60% more vibration than the previous generation. It's listed on the 18K 2027; we haven't seen it confirmed on the 12K 2027.

4. A more aerodynamic, better-balanced mold, according to Nox, built on the 2026 Luxury mold.

What didn't change: face carbon, Dual Spin, Weight Balance, thickness, weight and shape.

Where Weight Balance comes in. With up to 8 g of counterweights, you can make a 2027 more head-heavy and get some of the 2026 feel back. It doesn't work the other way: a 2026 will never be as light in the head as a 2027.

Should you replace your 2026? Not if it's in good shape and you like it. You'll feel the difference, but it isn't big enough to justify a new racket. If you're buying your first Genius, the 2027 is the better choice.

Which racket is right for you?

Start by picking the feel (18K or 12K), then the year (speed in the hand or mass in the head).

Still can't decide? The best test is to hit with both feels on the same mold. The difference between the 18K and the 12K shows up within your first few volleys. Want to understand shapes better? Read our guide Round vs. Teardrop vs. Diamond.

FAQ

Is the 18K more powerful than the 12K? No. With Nox, the 12K Alum Xtrem is the firmer, more explosive racket. The 18K focuses on comfort and versatility.

Which racket does Agustín Tapia play? The 12K Alum Xtrem.

Are the 2026 and 2027 versions really different? The materials and shape are the same. The differences are inside: weight distribution, the 12K's core and the VCS. The design is new too.

Can I make a 2027 as head-heavy as a 2026? Partly. The Weight Balance counterweights add up to 8 g.

Is the 2026 still worth buying? Yes, especially if you like a more head-heavy racket. It's the same proven platform.

Our final verdict

The 18K Alum 2027 is the easiest Genius to recommend: comfortable, forgiving and fast in the hand. The 12K Alum Xtrem 2027 is for advanced players who want the precision and punch of Tapia's racket, with better arm protection than in 2026. And if you prefer a head-heavier feel, the 2026 models are still excellent rackets.

Shop the four AT10 Genius rackets