Sanwei Nova Carbon vs Stiga Carbonado 145: Which Should You Buy?
| Sanwei Nova Carbon | Stiga Carbonado 145 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| feel | stiff, linear, direct | stiff, direct and rather linear with a large sweet spot, but the very thin TeXtreme layers keep the vibration close to a 5-ply all-wood blade |
| handle | FL/ST/AN | FL/ST (also offered as Legend and penhold) |
| plies | 5-ply: Hinoki + carbon + Kiri core | 5 wood plus 2 TeXtreme carbon (5+2 composite) with the carbon fibers laid at a 45 degree angle for torsional bendability |
| speed | OFF | OFF+ |
| thickness_mm | 6.2 | 5.7 |
| weight_g | 90 (plus or minus 5g) | 85 |
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The Nova Carbon offers direct, linear feedback at a budget carbon price point. Its Hinoki outer plies and Kiri core feel refined, and stiff character suits mid-distance offensive play. Drawback: limited dwell time and reduced forgiveness for imprecise contact.
The Stiga Carbonado 145 is a stiff, fast low-OFF to OFF+ carbon engine that lab testing confirms maintains wood-like vibration despite two TeXtreme carbon layers. It delivers plenty of mid-distance power and aggressive blocking. However, it is demanding and unforgiving for developing players, and has since been discontinued making sourcing difficult. Both are stiff and carbon-leaning, but Carbonado 145 is the premium, lab-verified option for experienced two-wing attackers; Nova is the budget entry for intermediate offensive players.
FAQ
Which is faster?
Stiga Carbonado 145 at low-OFF to OFF+. Nova is rated OFF. Carbonado edges ahead with better mid-distance power.
How do they feel despite being stiff?
Carbonado maintains wood-like vibration per lab testing. Nova has a more linear, crisp carbon feel.
Which is more forgiving?
Carbonado 145 has a large sweet spot that stays consistent. Nova demands center contact precision.
Which suits blocking?
Stiga Carbonado 145. Its stiff platform and aggressive character excel at two-wing attacking and blocking.
Availability and value?
Nova is current and widely available. Carbonado 145 is discontinued and harder to find despite being premium.