Butterfly Freitas ALC vs Stiga Allround Classic: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Freitas ALC | Stiga Allround Classic | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 |
| feel | Medium-soft | soft, high control |
| handle | Flared/Straight/Anatomic | FL/ST/AN |
| plies | 5+2 arylate carbon (ALC) outer — Limba-ALC-Limba-Ayous-Limba-ALC-Limba | 5W |
| speed | OFF | ALL |
| thickness_mm | 5.7 | 5.1 |
| weight_g | 88 | 75 |
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This is a tale of two philosophies: Freitas’ modern carbon engineering versus Stiga’s timeless all-wood control classic. Freitas (OFF, carbon) is substantially faster and more consistent off the table. Allround Classic (ALL, all-wood) is slow by design, built to teach players to supply their own pace and develop honest stroke mechanics.
Freitas is for intermediate-to-advanced looping competitors ready to embrace off-table aggression. Allround Classic is the gold standard for beginners and technique-focused players; its soft feel, high dwell, and forgiving sweet spot provide unparalleled educational value. Both are versatile by rubber choice, but Freitas rewards offensive play while Allround Classic rewards precision and touch. Freitas suits players wanting to level up competitively; Allround Classic suits those prioritizing long-term skill development and affordable longevity.
FAQ
Which blade is better for learning table tennis fundamentals?
Allround Classic by far. Its all-wood construction, soft feel, and high dwell time provide honest feedback on every stroke. Freitas is faster and more forgiving, which can enable poor technique. Allround Classic forces players to develop correct habits.
Can I eventually graduate from Allround Classic to Freitas?
Yes, and it’s a natural progression. Allround Classic teaches technique; once confident, players can step to Freitas for speed and consistency. Many players keep Allround Classic as a reference blade for technique checks.
Why is Allround Classic so affordable?
It’s a 5-ply all-wood design without synthetic layers or premium materials. Simple construction, proven design, and mass production keep costs low. Freitas’ carbon engineering commands premium pricing.