Butterfly Lin Gaoyuan ALC vs Donic Epox Control: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Lin Gaoyuan ALC | Donic Epox Control | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 |
| feel | Soft — flexible ALC gives a more wood-like feel than other carbon blades; high dwell time | Low vibration, elastic, soft touch |
| handle | Shakehand (FL, AN, ST options); shorter anatomic handle than Viscaria | Flared / Anatomic / Straight |
| plies | 5 wood + 2 arylate-carbon (ALC) — 7-ply construction with koto outer layers and inner arylate-carbon fiber | 5-ply all wood |
| speed | OFF (Butterfly rates Reaction 118, mid-fast; equivalent to OFF/OFF+ class) | ALL+ |
| thickness_mm | 5.7mm | 5.1 |
| weight_g | 84-87g typical (Butterfly spec approx 87g) | 80-90 |
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The Butterfly Lin Gaoyuan ALC (8.7 rating) is an OFF-speed arylate-carbon blade combining soft carbon feel with wood-like feedback. Its large head, impressive spin generation, and control at distance suit advanced attackers who want carbon power without sacrificing dwell. The price is premium, anatomic handle is short, and production is discontinued.
The Donic Epox Control (7.8 rating) is a lightweight, low-vibration five-ply all-wood blade using epoxy resin bonding. Its large sweet spot, light weight around 80 grams, and good predictability suit beginners and intermediate all-rounders. However, ALL-plus speed is insufficient for heavy looping or power-first play.
These blades target opposite skill levels. The Lin GA is for advanced attackers valuing spin, control, and carbon performance. The Epox is for beginners and all-rounders prioritizing consistency and forgiveness. They share little except being rated 8.7 and 7.8 respectively; choose based on skill level and playing style.
FAQ
Which blade is lighter?
The Donic Epox Control at 80 grams is lighter than the Lin Gaoyuan ALC at 84-87 grams, though both are relatively light for their categories.
Which blade is better for beginners?
Only the Epox. The Lin GA is designed for advanced attackers and suits beginners poorly.
Which blade is more expensive?
The Lin GA is significantly more expensive as a premium discontinued carbon blade. The Epox is a budget option, especially given the Epoxy bonding technology.
Which blade spins better?
The Lin GA spins substantially better due to its arylate-carbon construction and dwell time. The Epox spins adequately for its speed class but cannot match carbon performance.