Butterfly Freitas ALC vs Nittaku Acoustic Carbon Inner: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Freitas ALC | Nittaku Acoustic Carbon Inner | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| feel | Medium-soft | Medium |
| handle | Flared/Straight/Anatomic | FL|ST |
| plies | 5+2 arylate carbon (ALC) outer — Limba-ALC-Limba-Ayous-Limba-ALC-Limba | 5 wood + 2 carbon (inner FE carbon) |
| speed | OFF | OFF |
| thickness_mm | 5.7 | 5.5 |
| weight_g | 88 | 90 |
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Both blades share an OFF speed rating and exceptional control credentials, making them compelling for intermediate-to-advanced close-table players. The Freitas excels with its soft, sustained dwell time—a hallmark of quality outer-carbon construction—rewarding looping strokes with spin and consistency. The Acoustic Inner counters with a naturally woody sensation unique among carbon blades, plus its inner FE carbon adds mid-game power without sacrificing feel.
The key difference: Freitas suits European-style loopers prioritizing touch and dwell over raw pace, while Acoustic Inner appeals to penhold players and transition specialists who value spin consistency and a less stiff carbon transition. Freitas carries a weight penalty (88g vs 90g average), while Acoustic Inner’s narrower handle may frustrate players with larger hands. Both demand careful rubber pairing, though Acoustic Inner offers slightly broader compatibility.
FAQ
Which blade generates more spin?
Both excel at spin. Freitas leverages its soft outer-carbon construction and dwell to reward heavy brush looping. Acoustic Inner’s inner FE carbon layer adds power while preserving spin. Choose Freitas for brushy, exploratory loops; Acoustic Inner for explosive two-wing coverage.
Do I need special rubbers for either blade?
Freitas works well with a wide range of tensions. Acoustic Inner amplifies rubber catapult effect, so pair it cautiously with high-throw rubbers. Both benefit from medium-hard European or tension rubbers rather than soft Chinese sheets.
Which is better for beginners transitioning from wood?
Freitas is the safer step-up: its softer feel closely mirrors all-wood feedback while adding carbon stability and pace. Acoustic Inner offers more control but feels stiffer and demands better technique.