If you’re in the market for a residential basketball hoop, two popular options to consider are the Silverback NXT and SBX models. Silverback is one of the leading manufacturers of in-ground, portable, and wall-mount basketball systems.
The company’s NXT and SBX lines represent their premium in-ground hoops, featuring tempered glass backboards and anchoring systems designed for exceptional stability.
But how exactly do these two hoops compare? While the NXT and SBX share similarities, there are also key differences when it comes to features, construction, and overall performance. Read on as we break down the pros, cons, specs, and FAQs to help you decide between Silverback’s NXT and SBX in-ground basketball systems.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Silverback NXT | Silverback SBX |
| Backboard | 54″ Tempered Glass | 54″ Tempered Glass |
| Rim | Competition Breakaway | Competition Breakaway |
| Pole | 4″ Square Fixed Height | 3.5″ Square Adjustable |
| Mount | Gym-Quality Anchor | Anchor Mount |
| Adjustable Height | 7.5′ to 10′ | 7.5′ to 10′ |
| Installation | Professional Required | Can be Self-Installed |
| Price | More Expensive | Less Expensive |
| Warranty | Lifetime Frame/5-Year Backboard | 5-Year Limited |
| Performance | Superior Stability | Solid for Recreational Play |
Silverback NXT Overview
The Silverback NXT represents the newest generation of Silverback’s premiere in-ground basketball goal. It comes equipped with a tempered glass backboard, a Gym-quality anchor mounting system, a competition-style breakaway rim, and a lifting mechanism for adjustable heights from 7.5 to 10 feet.
Pros
- 54″ tempered glass backboard
- Anchor mount with dynamic stabilizer system
- Powder coated poles resist rusting
- Competition-style flex rim with steel net hooks
- Height adjusts from 7.5′ to 10′
- Comes in black, white, or graphite color options
Cons
- More expensive than SBX model
- Requires professional installation
- Not compatible with existing anchor mounts
Key Features
- Backboard: 54″ tempered glass
- Rim: Competition breakaway
- Adjustable Height: 7.5′ to 10′
- Pole: 4″ square fixed height pole
- Mount: Gym-quality anchor mount
- Warranty: Lifetime frame, 5-year backboard
Silverback SBX Overview
The Silverback SBX is another top in-ground basketball goal from Silverback. It’s very similar to the NXT but comes in at a more affordable price point. The SBX includes a tempered glass backboard, a unique Infinity Edge Pole mounting system, a competition breakaway rim, and height adjustments from 7.5 to 10 feet.
Pros
- Less expensive than the NXT model
- Same competition flex rim as NXT
- Powder coated steel frame resists elements
- Tempered glass backboard with graphics
- Easy height adjustment system
Cons
- Anchor mount not as robust as NXT
- Somewhat less durable construction
- Flex rim doesn’t rebound as well
Key Features
- Backboard: 54″ tempered glass
- Rim: Competition breakaway
- Adjustable Height: 7.5′ to 10′
- Pole: 3.5″ square Infinity Edge pole
- Mount: Anchor mount
- Warranty: 5-year limited
Comparing The NXT And SBX
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s do a side-by-side comparison of the NXT and SBX models. Here’s an overview of how they stack up against each other:
Backboard
- Both feature a 54″ tempered glass backboard, although the SBX has screened graphics VS. the NXT’s clear glass.
Rim
- Same competition-style flex rim on both systems. The NXT’s could be slightly more responsive.
Pole System
- The NXT has a fixed height 4″ square pole while the SBX uses a 3.5″ square adjustable height pole. NXT pole is more substantial.
Mounting
- NXT has a Gym-quality anchor mount; SBX uses a less rugged anchor mount. NXT mount provides superior stability.
Adjustable Height
- Both the NXT and SBX adjust from 7.5′ down to 10′ regulation height using a screw jack system.
Setup and Installation
- SBX can be self-installed; NXT requires professional installation.
Price
- NXT is more expensive than the SBX model. SBX provides better value.
Warranty
- NXT warranty covers lifetime on frame/pole, 5 years on backboard. SBX has 5-year limited warranty.
Aesthetics
- NXT available in black, white or graphite. SBX comes in black, white, green or graphite color options.
Performance
- The NXT generally provides a more responsive, rigid, and stable playing experience given its higher-end design. But the SBX still offers solid performance for recreational play.
So in summary, the NXT is the premium model with higher-end components, exceptional stability, and longer warranty periods. But the SBX still delivers terrific value for the money as a mid-priced in-ground goal. It really comes down to your budget and performance needs.
Also Read: Is Callaway Edge Better Than Mavrik?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Silverback SBX is an in-ground basketball goal system from Silverback. It features a 54″ tempered glass backboard, competition breakaway rim, an anchor mount, and height adjustments from 7.5′ to 10′. The SBX is Silverback’s mid-priced in-ground model below the NXT.
Yes, Silverback and Goalrilla are the sister brands of Escalade Sports. They produce equivalent models of in-ground basketball systems, just under different brand names.
The SB54 is a polycarbonate portable basketball system, while the SB54iG is an in-ground hoop with a 54” tempered glass backboard. The iG stands for “in-ground.”
There are no differences – Goalrilla and Goalrilla are the same brand. This is a trick question!
The Silverback NXT is among the highest quality in-ground basketball goals you can buy before stepping up to professional systems used in colleges and the NBA. It compares favorably to other premium brands like Goalrilla, Spalding, and Lifetime. The NXT delivers superior stability and durability thanks to its Gym-quality anchor mounting system.
Also watch the review of Silverback NXT!
Conclusion
When shopping for an inground basketball system, you can feel confident going with either the Silverback NXT or SBX. Both provide awesome backyard play on tempered glass backboards with competition breakaway rims. The NXT is the top-shelf choice that delivers maximum stability and performance.
But the SBX still shines as a mid-priced option packed with value. Carefully weigh the pros, cons and features against your budget and needs. And enjoy many years of high-flying family fun with a new Silverback in-ground basketball goal!