Butterfly Dignics 05 vs Nittaku Hammond Z2: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Dignics 05 | Nittaku Hammond Z2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| best_side | both | forehand |
| control | medium-high | 7.5 |
| speed | high (Butterfly rating 86) | 9.0 |
| spin | very high (Butterfly rating 85) | 9.5 |
| sponge_hardness | 40 degrees (Butterfly scale) | 52 |
| type | tensor inverted (Spring Sponge X) | inverted |
| weight_uncut_g | 70 | 70 |
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Dignics 05 and Nittaku Hammond Z2 both target advanced loopers, but Hammond Z2 leans harder and demands more active strokes. Dignics 05 offers class-leading grip, immense power, outstanding durability, and superb blocking at high speeds. It is the all-rounder—strong on both wings with forgiving control for such a fast rubber.
Hammond Z2 is a distinctly Japanese tensor with exceptional looping and counterlooping power, high spin output, and medium arc. Made outside the ESN ecosystem, it has a unique character and feel. Active blocks and smashes are extremely dangerous. The catch: it demands active, well-timed strokes and is very unforgiving of passive contact. Not as naturally explosive as Tenergy 05, nor as maximally grippy as Dignics 05. Choose Dignics 05 for versatility and control; Hammond Z2 for pure forehand spin and a non-ESN rubber experience.
FAQ
Which is more aggressive?
Hammond Z2 with its 52-degree hardness and narrow focus on looping and blocking. Dignics 05 is more balanced overall.
Can I use Hammond Z2 on backhand?
Not recommended—it is a forehand specialist. Better suited to OFF-minus or flexible blades, not stiff carbon setups.
Is Hammond Z2 good for beginners?
No—it demands active, well-timed strokes and is polarizing for players transitioning from softer rubbers.
Spin ceiling comparison?
Dignics 05 rated 85; Hammond Z2 at 9.5. Both extreme, with Dignics 05’s grip arguably more violent in application.
Who prefers Hammond Z2?
Upper-intermediate and advanced offensive players, especially aggressive loopers and counterlooping specialists who value durability and broad gear range.