DHS Hurricane 3-NEO vs Palio AK47: Which Should You Buy?
| DHS Hurricane 3-NEO | Palio AK47 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| best_side | forehand | both |
| control | medium-high | high (best on the softer Blue) |
| speed | offensive (medium passive, high when fully engaged) | medium-high (Blue softer and more linear, Red fastest) |
| spin | extreme | high |
| sponge_hardness | 39-41 degrees (DHS scale), also offered in 37 and 38 | Blue around 38-40 deg, Yellow around 40-42 deg, Red around 45-47 deg (Euro scale) |
| type | tacky inverted (NEO internal energy sponge) | non-tacky inverted tensor (offered in Blue, Yellow and Red sponges) |
| weight_uncut_g | 70 | 67 |
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The Hurricane 3-NEO and AK47 are both affordable, but they target different players. The 3-NEO is a tacky inverted rubber with extreme spin, a uniquely strong first-attack loop and linear, limitless power once engaged, though it has low passive speed, runs heavy and often needs boosting to reach its ceiling. The AK47 is a light, non-tacky tensor in Blue, Yellow and Red sponges, grippy and near plug-and-play with high spin and easy versatility on either wing.
Choose the 3-NEO if you lead with the forehand, loop close to the table and value heavy spin and a powerful first attack over springy speed, and you are willing to hit hard and maintain a tacky sheet. Choose the AK47 if you want a light, spinny, forgiving tensor that works straight away, with Blue for control, Yellow for balance and Red for aggression.
The 3-NEO holds the higher rating and a deeper spin ceiling with above-average durability for the price, while the AK47 wins on light weight, easy setup and backhand-friendly control.
FAQ
Which has more spin?
The Hurricane 3-NEO. It is rated extreme for spin and praised for very spinny serves and a strong first-attack loop, while the AK47 is high but non-tacky.
Which is easier to use straight away?
The AK47. It is a near plug-and-play tensor, whereas the 3-NEO has low passive speed and often needs boosting plus hard hitting to unlock its pace.
Which is better for the backhand?
The AK47, especially the softer Blue sponge with its control on pushes, blocks and the short game. The 3-NEO is a forehand-focused tacky rubber.
How many hardness options does each offer?
The 3-NEO comes in five grades from 37 to 41 degrees. The AK47 comes in three sponges: Blue, Yellow and Red.