Butterfly Tenergy 19 vs Nittaku Hammond Z2: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Tenergy 19 | Nittaku Hammond Z2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 |
| best_side | forehand | forehand |
| control | high — extended dwell time provides greater margin for error than other Tenergy variants | 7.5 |
| speed | 132 | 9.0 |
| spin | 117 | 9.5 |
| sponge_hardness | 36 degrees (approx 48 degrees ESN) | 52 |
| type | inverted / pimples-in tensor | inverted |
| weight_uncut_g | approx 49 g | 70 |
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Butterfly Tenergy 19 delivers higher spin ceiling with extended dwell margin on forehand loops, available in multiple thicknesses. Nittaku Hammond Z2 (8.8 rating) is an exceptionally hard, spinny forehand tensor made in Japan with distinctive non-ESN character, exceptional looping power and above-average durability for ESN tensors.
Hammond Z2 offers exceptional looping and counterlooping power with high spin output (9.5), strong community consensus and one of highest Revspin ratings in category. It demands active, well-timed strokes—very unforgiving of passive contact. Hammond Z2 is better suited to OFF-minus or flexible blades than stiff carbon setups; Tenergy 19 requires carbon or ALC blade.
Both are elite forehand rubbers for upper-intermediate and advanced players. Choose Tenergy 19 for extended dwell and customizable thickness. Choose Hammond Z2 for hard, spinny feel with broad gear range and proven durability without premium Butterfly price.
FAQ
Why is Hammond Z2 made in Japan important?
Non-ESN character and distinctive feel differ from European tensor sponges. Some players prefer the tactile feedback and looping character over ESN alternatives.
Which has higher spin?
Tenergy 19 at 117 versus Hammond Z2 at 9.5. Both rate elite spin; Tenergy higher ceiling, Hammond Z2 more consistent across harder play.
Is Hammond Z2 more durable than Tenergy?
Hammond Z2 is described as above-average durability for ESN tensors. Tenergy 19 also durable, particularly on carbon blades.
Which works on softer blades?
Hammond Z2 is better suited to OFF-minus or flexible blades. Tenergy 19 requires carbon or ALC blade to express full potential.
Is Hammond Z2 unforgiving?
Yes—it demands active, well-timed strokes and is very unforgiving of passive contact. Tenergy 19’s extended dwell is more forgiving.