Butterfly Freitas ALC vs Sanwei Nova Carbon: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Freitas ALC | Sanwei Nova Carbon | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| feel | Medium-soft | stiff, linear, direct |
| handle | Flared/Straight/Anatomic | FL/ST/AN |
| plies | 5+2 arylate carbon (ALC) outer — Limba-ALC-Limba-Ayous-Limba-ALC-Limba | 5-ply: Hinoki + carbon + Kiri core |
| speed | OFF | OFF |
| thickness_mm | 5.7 | 6.2 |
| weight_g | 88 | 90 (plus or minus 5g) |
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Freitas and Nova Carbon share OFF ratings but target different player archetypes. Freitas delivers soft, dwell-rich outer-carbon feedback ideal for control-focused loopers. Nova Carbon uses Hinoki plies and inner carbon for a stiff, linear feel suited to direct attacking from mid-distance.
Freitas suits loopers who brush the ball and exploit heavy spin; Nova Carbon rewards clean, decisive contacts and mid-distance drives. Both offer reasonable value, but Freitas provides greater versatility and forgiveness on off-center hits. Nova Carbon’s high stiffness punishes loose technique and soft spins, limiting it to intermediate offensive players with consistent swing mechanics. Weight variance in Nova Carbon (around 90 plus or minus 5g) adds unpredictability. For developing players, Freitas is the safer investment; for confident mid-distance attackers, Nova Carbon delivers exceptional direct-hit feel.
FAQ
Which blade is better for heavy topspin loops?
Freitas by a significant margin. Its soft, dwell-rich outer carbon is engineered for brush-heavy looping. Nova Carbon’s stiff construction and high dwell punish brushy technique, making it unsuitable for European-style loop-dominant play.
Can I use Nova Carbon for all-around play?
Not well. Nova Carbon excels at mid-distance attacking and flat drives, but its stiffness and reduced dwell time make short-game touch and close-table loops difficult. Freitas is far more versatile.
Is Nova Carbon good value for aggressive players?
Yes, if your game centers on mid-distance drives and flat attacks. For that playing style, Nova Carbon offers excellent value. But if you loop or play short-game heavy, Freitas is worth the premium.