Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC vs Yasaka Ma Lin Soft Carbon: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC | Yasaka Ma Lin Soft Carbon | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| feel | Crisp and direct with noticeable dwell on contact; slightly softer arc than Viscaria Super ALC | medium-soft and flexible for a carbon blade, with clear feedback and a large sweet spot |
| handle | Flared (FL), Straight (ST), Anatomic (AN) — notably thicker grip than Viscaria | FL/ST/AN |
| plies | 5 wood plus 2 arylate-carbon (ALC) — Koto / ALC / Limba / Kiri / Limba / ALC / Koto | 7-ply (5 wood plus 2 very thin carbon layers) — same outer veneer as the Yasaka Extra |
| speed | OFF | OFF- |
| thickness_mm | approx 5.7mm | 5.8 |
| weight_g | 87-92g typical | 87 |
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The Fan Zhendong ALC (8.8 rating) is the definitive choice for serious offensive players who demand dwell, speed, and consistent performance. The Yasaka Ma Lin Soft Carbon (8.1 rating) appeals to improving players and control-oriented offensive players upgrading from premade bats: its medium-soft, flexible carbon feel stays manageable, blocking is excellent, and the large sweet spot forgives imprecision. The Fan accelerates the game; Yasaka stabilizes it. The Fan generates spin efficiently; Yasaka requires good technique. The Fan suits dedicated strikers; Yasaka fits intermediates seeking a soft, forgiving carbon blade upgrade.
FAQ
Why is the Soft Carbon softer than the regular Ma Lin Carbon?
The Soft version has thinner carbon layers (two very thin layers vs. standard placement), making the blade more flexible and forgiving. It sacrifices some catapult for control and feel.
Which is better for blocking?
The Yasaka Soft Carbon. Its flexible medium-soft carbon feel and clear ball feedback make blocking comfortable and stable. The Fan is stiffer and more demanding on blocks.
Should I choose the Soft Carbon or regular Ma Lin Carbon?
Choose Soft if you prioritize control, feel, and blocking. Choose regular if you want more speed and catapult. The Fan outpaces both in speed but costs significantly more.