Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC vs Butterfly Freitas ALC: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC | Butterfly Freitas ALC | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| feel | Crisp and direct with noticeable dwell on contact; slightly softer arc than Viscaria Super ALC | Medium-soft |
| handle | Flared (FL), Straight (ST), Anatomic (AN) — notably thicker grip than Viscaria | Flared/Straight/Anatomic |
| plies | 5 wood plus 2 arylate-carbon (ALC) — Koto / ALC / Limba / Kiri / Limba / ALC / Koto | 5+2 arylate carbon (ALC) outer — Limba-ALC-Limba-Ayous-Limba-ALC-Limba |
| speed | OFF | OFF |
| thickness_mm | approx 5.7mm | 5.7 |
| weight_g | 87-92g typical | 88 |
We may earn a commission from links on this page. Learn more.
The Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC edges the Butterfly Freitas ALC with a stronger 8.8 rating versus 8.5. Intermediate to advanced shakehand players who play an aggressive, topspin-heavy loop game and want a controllable outer… For players seeking different priorities, the Butterfly Freitas ALC (8.5/10) delivers its own advantages. Intermediate to advanced European-style loopers who prioritise control, dwell, a…
FAQ
What is the main difference between Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC and Butterfly Freitas ALC?
The Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC features 5 wood plus 2 arylate-carbon (ALC) — Koto / ALC / Limba / Kiri / Limba / ALC / Koto with a rating of 8.8/10, while the Butterfly Freitas ALC uses 5+2 arylate carbon (ALC) outer — Limba-ALC-Limba-Ayous-Limba-ALC-Limba and rates 8.5/10. Choose based on your playing style and preference for feel.
Which blade is faster, Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC or Butterfly Freitas ALC?
Butterfly Freitas ALC typically offers more speed with its OFF rating compared to Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALCs OFF rating. However, speed should be matched with your rubber choice and playing style.
Who should choose Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC?
Intermediate to advanced shakehand players who play an aggressive, topspin-heavy loop game and want a controllable outer-ALC blade with proven Viscaria-class performance. Especially recommended for players with larger hands who found the Viscaria handle too thin.
Who should choose Butterfly Freitas ALC?
Intermediate to advanced European-style loopers who prioritise control, dwell, and spin consistency over raw top-end speed. Ideal as a step up from an all-wood blade.
How much do these blades weigh?
The Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC weighs approximately 87-92g typical, while the Butterfly Freitas ALC weighs around 88. Weight affects swing speed and fatigue levels over extended play.