Butterfly Freitas ALC vs Butterfly Timo Boll ZLC: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Freitas ALC | Butterfly Timo Boll ZLC | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
| feel | Medium-soft | direct and responsive with ZLC dwell |
| handle | Flared/Straight/Anatomic | FL/AN/ST |
| head_size | — | 157 x 150 mm |
| plies | 5+2 arylate carbon (ALC) outer — Limba-ALC-Limba-Ayous-Limba-ALC-Limba | 7 plies: Koto / ZLC / Limba / Ayous / Limba / ZLC / Koto (5 wood + 2 ZL Carbon composite) |
| reaction | — | 117 |
| speed | OFF | OFF++ |
| thickness_mm | 5.7 | 5.5 |
| vibration | — | 108 |
| weight_g | 88 | 85 |
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The Butterfly Timo Boll ZLC leads the field with a 9 rating, outpacing the Butterfly Freitas ALC at 8.5. Elite attackers and tournament professionals; aggressive topspin and flat-hit game styles at close to mid distance from … That said, the Butterfly Freitas ALC (8.5/10) remains compelling for specific needs. Intermediate to advanced European-style loopers who prioritise control, dwell, a…
FAQ
What is the main difference between Butterfly Freitas ALC and Butterfly Timo Boll ZLC?
The Butterfly Freitas ALC features 5+2 arylate carbon (ALC) outer — Limba-ALC-Limba-Ayous-Limba-ALC-Limba with a rating of 8.5/10, while the Butterfly Timo Boll ZLC uses 7 plies: Koto / ZLC / Limba / Ayous / Limba / ZLC / Koto (5 wood + 2 ZL Carbon composite) and rates 9/10. Choose based on your playing style and preference for feel.
Which blade is faster, Butterfly Freitas ALC or Butterfly Timo Boll ZLC?
Butterfly Timo Boll ZLC typically offers more speed with its OFF++ rating compared to Butterfly Freitas ALCs OFF rating. However, speed should be matched with your rubber choice and playing style.
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.
Who should choose Butterfly Timo Boll ZLC?
Elite attackers and tournament professionals; aggressive topspin and flat-hit game styles at close to mid distance from the table
How much do these blades weigh?
The Butterfly Freitas ALC weighs approximately 88, while the Butterfly Timo Boll ZLC weighs around 85. Weight affects swing speed and fatigue levels over extended play.