Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC vs Yasaka Sweden Extra: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC | Yasaka Sweden Extra | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
| feel | Crisp and direct with noticeable dwell on contact; slightly softer arc than Viscaria Super ALC | soft-medium, high control |
| handle | Flared (FL), Straight (ST), Anatomic (AN) — notably thicker grip than Viscaria | FL/ST |
| plies | 5 wood plus 2 arylate-carbon (ALC) — Koto / ALC / Limba / Kiri / Limba / ALC / Koto | 5W (all wood) |
| speed | OFF | ALL+ |
| thickness_mm | approx 5.7mm | 5.7 |
| weight_g | 87-92g typical | 85 |
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The Fan Zhendong ALC (8.8 rating) is the modern offensive choice for power and speed, delivering carbon-assisted acceleration and dwell. The Yasaka Sweden Extra (8.7 rating) is the budget alternative that punches above its price: reviewers report it plays like a blade costing several times more, offering elite feel, control, and effortless short-game precision that rivals blades costing far more. The Fan adds carbon speed and power inheritance; Yasaka offers touchplay and longevity as you improve—simply change rubbers. The Fan suits dedicated attackers; Yasaka fits developing and intermediate all-round players on a budget.
FAQ
Is the Yasaka Sweden Extra truly competitive at the price?
Yes, repeatedly praised as exceptional value: larger sweet spot than comparable blades, faster direct response than the Stiga Allround Classic, and a feel that belies its cost. Advanced players recognize the compromise.
Which blade is better for learning?
The Yasaka Sweden Extra. Its high control, effortless short game, and forgiving feel suit developing players. The Fan rewards developed technique but is harder for beginners to master.
Can the Sweden Extra eventually limit you?
Yes. Its ALL+ speed means aggressive flat hitters chasing raw pace will eventually want more speed. But for allround and control players, it grows with you as you upgrade rubbers.