Butterfly Maze Magic vs Nittaku Septear: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Maze Magic | Nittaku Septear | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.3/10 | 8.2/10 |
| feel | medium softness, enveloping dwell, good vibration feedback | Soft with high dwell time |
| handle | AN / FL / ST shakehand | Straight or Concave (flared) |
| plies | 5-ply all wood | 7-ply all wood (Kiso Hinoki) |
| speed | ALL+ | ALL+ |
| thickness_mm | 5.9mm | 6.7 |
| weight_g | approx 82-85g | 85 |
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Butterfly Maze Magic at USD 50 is remarkable value for a genuine all-wood blade with soft, enveloping dwell and deceptively fast pace. Nittaku Septear is a premium soft Kiso Hinoki all-wood blade emphasizing exceptional control and versatility across all stroke types—loops, blocks, pushes, flicks, smashes.
Both share soft, high-dwell feels and ALL+ speed rating (6.7mm thickness, 85g weight), yet diverge in craftsmanship and versatility. Septear’s premium Japanese construction and superior versatility position it as the refined choice for intermediate all-around players. Magic suits budget-conscious learners seeking Butterfly quality affordably. Septear requires medium-hard or harder rubbers to unlock potential; Magic adapts flexibly across rubber families. Septear’s soft hinoki surface dents over time; Magic’s wood is more durable. Choose Magic if value and learning matter; pick Septear if you seek premium craftsmanship and versatile all-stroke performance.
FAQ
Why does Septear need harder rubbers?
Soft hinoki lacks snap, so soft rubber fails to return adequate energy. Medium-hard or hard sponge compensates.
Is Septear worth double the price?
For intermediate players, yes—premium craftsmanship and versatility justify it. Beginners benefit more from Magic’s affordability.
Which is more durable?
Magic’s harder wood resists dents. Septear’s soft hinoki surface dents over time, requiring gentle care.
Which develops all-around technique better?
Septear’s versatility across all strokes is superior. Magic supports learning but favors spin and placement over blocks and pushes.
Can Magic compete with Septear performance-wise?
For learners, Magic is excellent. Intermediate attackers eventually feel limited; Septear’s versatility sustains longer.