Butterfly Innerforce ZLC vs Stiga Emerald VPS V: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Innerforce ZLC | Stiga Emerald VPS V | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| feel | Soft-medium; woody feel with ZLC carbon layers near the core | Stiff, hard outer surface with medium throw angle and large sweet spot |
| handle | AN / FL / ST | Flared (FL), also available in ST and Chinese pen |
| plies | 5 wood + 2 ZLC carbon (inner ZLC construction) | 5-ply all wood (Ebenholz/dark outer, VPS-treated middle veneers) |
| speed | OFF | OFF+ |
| thickness_mm | 5.7 | 6.2 |
| weight_g | 84 | 98 |
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The Innerforce ZLC stays balanced across close-table looping and mid-distance play with exceptional dwell. The Stiga Emerald VPS V uses stiff all-wood construction to deliver OFF+ speed—more pace than the ZLC from an all-wood frame, paired with large sweet spot and durable Diamond Touch surface.
Choose the ZLC if you value spin-first, dwell-rich feel and plan mid-distance topspin exchanges. Pick the Emerald if you want aggressive counter-looping power, prefer a stiffer blade response, and can swing through the ball consistently. The Emerald is heavier (98g vs. 84g), which builds power but risks fatigue.
FAQ
Which delivers more raw speed?
The Emerald: its OFF+ rating beats the ZLC’s OFF by design. The Emerald excels at counter-looping at mid and long distance where the ZLC moderates pace.
Can beginners or intermediate players use either?
The ZLC demands solid technique to unlock its potential. The Emerald’s stiff, hard construction punishes weak swings and suits only players with consistent form.
How different is the feel?
ZLC is soft-medium, woody, reward-rich; Emerald is stiff, hard, flat-trajectory. The ZLC whispers feedback while Emerald demands you supply power.
Which handles heavy rubbers better?
The Emerald’s thicker, heavier construction (6.2mm, 98g) absorbs thick sponge well. The ZLC at 5.7mm, 84g becomes head-heavy with 2.0mm-plus rubbers.