Butterfly Timo Boll ALC vs Donic Appelgren Allplay: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Timo Boll ALC | Donic Appelgren Allplay | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| feel | medium | medium, controlled |
| handle | FL/ST/AN | FL/ST/AN |
| plies | 5W+2 Arylate-Carbon | 5W (abachi core + limba) |
| speed | OFF | ALL |
| thickness_mm | 5.8 | 5.8 |
| weight_g | 86 | 85 |
We may earn a commission from links on this page. Learn more.
These blades sit at different stages of a player’s journey. The Timo Boll ALC is a fast, premium arylate-carbon OFF blade with a huge sweet spot, built for an attacking shakehand with a developed stroke. The Donic Appelgren Allplay is an all-wood ALL blade designed to do everything with great control and forgiveness — a classic first blade.
Pick the Appelgren Allplay if you are learning and want one controllable blade for every stroke, ideally with a non-tension rubber. Pick the Timo Boll ALC when your technique is ready for premium carbon speed and spin from mid-distance. They are not really rivals so much as different chapters.
FAQ
Which is better for a beginner?
The Donic Appelgren Allplay — it’s a control-first all-wood blade made for learning every stroke. The Timo Boll ALC is a fast OFF carbon blade for developed strokes.
Is the ALC worth the extra money?
Only once you have the technique to use its speed. While you are developing, the Allplay gives more control and value.