Stiga DNA Pro M vs Yasaka Rakza Z: Which Should You Buy?
| Stiga DNA Pro M | Yasaka Rakza Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 8.6/10 |
| best_side | Forehand or Backhand | forehand |
| control | High | high |
| speed | OFF+ | medium |
| spin | Very High | extreme |
| sponge_hardness | 47.5 degrees ESN | 50 degrees (medium-hard; Extra Hard version around 57 degrees) |
| type | Inverted / Pimples-In | hybrid tacky tensor |
| weight_uncut_g | 69 | 72 |
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DNA Pro M and Yasaka Rakza Z occupy the same advanced level (8.5 vs 8.6 rating) but pursue opposite strategies. DNA Pro M is an ESN tensor prioritizing balanced speed-spin-control across both wings with explosive OFF+ catapult and medium-high forgiving arc. Rakza Z is a hard tacky hybrid (50 degrees, 72 grams uncut) specializing in extreme spin generation and heavy ball control, optimized for proactive offensive loopers on the forehand.
Rakza Z outspins DNA Pro M dramatically (extreme vs very high); its tacky topsheet grips the ball with exceptional low-slip spin on loops, backspin openings and serves. DNA Pro M’s speed (OFF+) dominates Rakza Z’s moderate tempo (medium)—DNA Pro M finishes points faster on flat hits and loops from distance. Rakza Z’s weight (72 grams uncut) and high throw angle demand a closed blade angle and full commitment to strokes; weak or out-of-position play is weak and slow, while DNA Pro M’s forgiving arc catches small errors. Rakza Z excels at heavy backspin lifts through grip and dwell; DNA Pro M also lifts well but with less dedicated spin.
Choose DNA Pro M if you want all-round attacking speed across both wings; choose Rakza Z only if you are a proactive forehand looper willing to swing fully and accept arm fatigue from its 72-gram weight.
FAQ
Which spins more?
Rakza Z generates extreme spin through its tacky topsheet and high dwell. DNA Pro M also spins very high but Rakza Z is specialized for maximum spin.
Which is faster?
DNA Pro M (OFF+) is noticeably faster. Rakza Z’s speed is medium; you rely on stroke weight and full commitment to finish points.
Which is better for backhand?
DNA Pro M suits both forehand and backhand equally. Rakza Z is optimized for forehand; backhand players should look elsewhere.
Is Rakza Z heavy?
Yes—Rakza Z at 72 grams uncut can cause arm or wrist fatigue, especially on carbon blades. DNA Pro M at 69 grams is more manageable.
Which is better value versus Dignics 09C?
Rakza Z is a strong budget pick delivering similar feel and spin to Dignics 09C or boosted Hurricane 3 at significantly lower cost.