Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC vs Butterfly Innerforce ZLC: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC | Butterfly Innerforce ZLC | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| feel | Crisp and direct with noticeable dwell on contact; slightly softer arc than Viscaria Super ALC | Soft-medium; woody feel with ZLC carbon layers near the core |
| handle | Flared (FL), Straight (ST), Anatomic (AN) — notably thicker grip than Viscaria | AN / FL / ST |
| plies | 5 wood plus 2 arylate-carbon (ALC) — Koto / ALC / Limba / Kiri / Limba / ALC / Koto | 5 wood + 2 ZLC carbon (inner ZLC construction) |
| speed | OFF | OFF |
| thickness_mm | approx 5.7mm | 5.7 |
| weight_g | 87-92g typical | 84 |
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Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC and Innerforce ZLC both suit advanced offensive players but emphasize different qualities. Fan Zhendong delivers crisp, direct performance through proven Viscaria-class ALC construction, with outstanding dwell for heavy topspin. Its thicker handle benefits larger-handed players, and it pairs seamlessly with diverse rubber types from Chinese tacky to European high-tension sheets.
Innerforce ZLC is distinguished by its inner ZLC construction, which preserves the woody feel rare in carbon blades while maintaining excellent balance of speed, spin, and control. Works across all ranges from short-game touch to mid-distance looping with a large sweet spot and low vibration. Both are premium options; however, Innerforce ZLC is discontinued with elevated resale prices, while Fan Zhendong remains current and offers established durability.
FAQ
Which is still available to purchase new?
Fan Zhendong ALC is currently in production. Innerforce ZLC is discontinued, making new purchases difficult with inflated resale prices.
How does the feel differ?
Fan Zhendong offers crisp, direct dwell slightly softer than Viscaria Super ALC. Innerforce ZLC delivers soft-medium, woody feel with ZLC carbon near the core.
Which suits mid-distance play better?
Both work well. Innerforce ZLC explicitly supports all ranges from short-game to mid-distance looping. Fan Zhendong suits aggressive topspin-heavy loop play.
What about rubber compatibility?
Fan Zhendong pairs with a wide range from tacky Chinese to high-tension European. Innerforce ZLC pairs well with Tenergy and Rakza.
Are they both at OFF speed?
Yes, both are rated OFF-class. Fan Zhendong and Innerforce ZLC are equivalent in speed classification.