Description Butterfly Freitas ALC

Butterfly Freitas ALC is a top-class table tennis blade, designed and used by Portuguese star Marcos Freitas, one of Europe's best players. Manufactured in Japan, this blade is the successor to the popular Butterfly Michael Maze blade and is intended for offensive (OFF) players seeking balanced speed, control, and spin. Its 7-ply construction, consisting of 5 wood layers and 2 Arylate-Carbon (ALC) layers, ensures high speed (~12.0/20), good control (~8.5/20), and high spin (~9.5/20).

The blade's rebound characteristics (11.4/10) and vibration properties (10.8/10) provide a unique "ALC-touch" hitting feel that is firm yet elastic, allowing players to generate strong spin in topspin strokes, precise backhand flicks, and effective attacking smashes. With a thickness of 6.0 mm and standard blade dimensions (157 x 150 mm), the Freitas ALC offers an excellent balance of stability and power. Its weight (~90 g) ensures stability during intense matches, while the available handle types—flared (FL), straight (ST), and anatomic (AN)—cater to various playing styles.

Compared to the Butterfly Michael Maze (~11.8/20 speed, ~8.7/20 control), the Freitas ALC is slightly slower but provides a softer hitting feel due to its more flexible outer plies. Online player reviews, including those on TableTennisDB, Revspin, and Megaspin, emphasize that the blade "offers an excellent speed-spin balance," "is ideal for topspin strokes and all-round players," and "delivers high-quality ALC feel," making it an excellent choice for advanced and professional players seeking versatility and power.

Key Features:

• Blade type: Offensive (OFF)

• Rebound characteristics (speed): 11.4/10 (~12.0/20 on the general scale)

• Vibration characteristics (hardness): 10.8/10

• Speed: ~8.75/10 (~12.0/20 on the general scale)

• Control: ~8.5/10 (~8.5/20 on the general scale)

• Spin: ~9.5/20 (approximate, based on player feedback)

• Ply composition: 5 wood layers + 2 Arylate-Carbon (ALC) layers

• Thickness: 6.0 mm

• Blade dimensions: 157 x 150 mm

• Handle dimensions:

  • Flared (FL): 100 x 25 x 34 mm

  • Straight (ST): 100 x 23 x 28 mm

  • Anatomic (AN): 100 x 25 x 34 mm

• Weight: ~90 g

• Manufacturer: Butterfly (Japan)

• Certification: ITTF-approved

• Suitability: Offensive play, topspin strokes, backhand flicks, blocking, short game, attacking smashes

• Player level: Advanced, professional

Unique Features and Playing Characteristics:

The Butterfly Freitas ALC is an elite offensive blade designed for players who demand high speed (~12.0/20), good control (~8.5/20), and high spin (~9.5/20). Its 7-ply construction, with 5 wood layers (typically limba outer, ayous middle, and kiri core) and 2 Arylate-Carbon (ALC) layers placed directly beneath the outer plies, ensures an optimal balance of speed and flexibility.

The ALC technology, combining carbon and Vectran fibers, provides the blade with high speed and stability, while the softer limba outer plies add elasticity and extended ball contact (dwell time), enhancing spin. The 6.0 mm thickness offers rigidity suitable for aggressive strokes while maintaining the distinctive "ALC-touch" feel, which is ideal for all-round players.

The rebound (11.4/10) and vibration (10.8/10) characteristics create a firm yet elastic hitting sensation, allowing players to precisely control the ball during topspin strokes, backhand flicks, and blocks. The weight (~90 g) ensures stability, and the high-quality craftsmanship reflects Marcos Freitas' personal dedication and goals.

Optimized for ABS balls, the blade guarantees high spin and stable contact, especially when paired with high-tension rubbers like the Dignics or Tenergy series. Player feedback highlights that the Freitas ALC "delivers an outstanding speed-spin balance," "excels in topspin play and suits all-round players," and "provides a premium ALC feel," making it an ideal choice for offensive players seeking versatility.

Ply Composition:

The Butterfly Freitas ALC consists of 7 plies:

• 5 wood layers (limba outer, ayous middle, kiri core)

• 2 Arylate-Carbon (ALC) layers beneath the outer limba plies

The limba outer plies contribute softness and spin potential, while the ALC layers add speed and stability while maintaining elasticity. The ayous middle plies and kiri core provide lightness and stability, ensuring a balanced hitting feel.

Compared to the Butterfly Michael Maze (~11.8/20 speed, ~8.7/20 control), the Freitas ALC is slightly slower but offers a softer touch due to its more flexible outer plies. Against the Fan Zhendong ALC (~13.0/20 speed, ~9.0/20 control), it is slower but provides better spin and control thanks to its more elastic ALC structure.

Players note that the construction "delivers an excellent spin-control combination," "is perfect for topspin strokes and backhand flicks," and "ensures stability in blocking," making it suitable for versatile offensive players.

Trajectory and Hitting Feel:

The Freitas ALC features a medium-high trajectory (~8.1/10), ideal for topspin strokes, backhand flicks, and attacking smashes. The 6.0 mm thickness and ALC layers ensure medium ball contact (dwell time), amplifying spin—particularly in topspin strokes and serves.

The vibration properties (10.8/10) provide a firm yet elastic feel, allowing precise ball placement during aggressive shots. The blade remains forgiving on off-center hits, making it suitable for players refining their technique, though solid fundamentals are still required in high-intensity rallies.

Players highlight that the blade "offers a soft yet powerful sensation," "facilitates effortless spin generation in topspin play," and "has a stable trajectory," making it an excellent choice for attackers playing close to or at mid-distance.

Control:

The Freitas ALC offers good control (~8.5/20) for its category, particularly in topspin strokes, backhand flicks, blocks, and short play. The ALC layers and softer limba outer plies provide elastic feedback, enabling precise ball control in fast exchanges.

Compared to the Fan Zhendong ALC (~9.0/20 control), it offers slightly less control due to its firmer feel but compensates with better spin. Against the Viscaria (~12.8/20 speed, ~9.2/20 control), it is slower but provides superior spin and a softer touch.

Players note that the blade "is manageable in topspin rallies" and "allows accurate ball placement in short play," making it ideal for all-round players.

Technical Ratings:

• Speed (~8.75/10, ~12.0/20): High speed, suited for topspins, flicks, blocks, and smashes near or mid-distance. Slower than the Fan Zhendong ALC (~13.0/20).

• Control (~8.5/10, ~8.5/20): Good control, especially in topspins, blocks, and attacks. Slightly less than the Innerforce Layer ALC (~9.5/20) but faster.

• Spin (~9.5/20): High spin potential, ideal for topspins, serves, and flicks, aided by softer outer plies.

• Rebound (11.4/10): Ensures dynamic ball bounce, perfect for offensive play.

• Vibration (10.8/10): Delivers a firm yet elastic feel while maintaining stability.

Playing Aspects:

• Topspin strokes: 9.3/10 – Highly effective, especially on the forehand, with exceptional spin and speed.

• Backspin strokes: 8.5/10 – Stable chops, suitable for occasional defensive play.

• Blocking: 8.8/10 – Stable against topspins, thanks to ALC layers and softer outer plies.

• Push strokes: 8.7/10 – Precise in short play, with good control.

• Chopping: 8.4/10 – Effective backspin strokes for all-round players.

• Counter-hitting: 9.0/10 – Stable counters with superb speed-control balance.

• Smashing: 8.9/10 – Powerful finishes for quick point termination.

• Serves & receives: 9.2/10 – Effective serve returns and spin generation.

• Flicks: 9.1/10 – Highly effective backhand flicks in short play.

Rubber Compatibility:

The Freitas ALC pairs exceptionally with high-tension rubbers that complement its speed, spin, and control:

• Butterfly Dignics 09C (~18.0/20 speed, ~8.8/20 control, ~17.5/20 spin): Ideal for spin-focused topspin play.

• Butterfly Tenergy 05 (~19.0/20 speed, ~8.0/20 control, ~17.0/20 spin): Maximizes speed and spin for aggressive attackers.

• Butterfly Tenergy 19 (~17.5/20 speed, ~9.0/20 control, ~16.0/20 spin): Balances control and spin for all-rounders.

• Butterfly Rozena (~17.0/20 speed, ~9.0/20 control, ~15.5/20 spin): A transitional rubber for players adapting to high-tension rubbers.

• DHS Hurricane 3 Neo (~16.5/20 speed, ~8.8/20 control, ~17.0/20 spin): Offers strong spin and control for forehand play.

For optimal performance, pair the Freitas ALC with Dignics 09C or Tenergy 05 on the forehand for maximum spin/speed, or Tenergy 19/Rozena on the backhand for added control.

Additional Notes:

The Butterfly Freitas ALC is a premium offensive blade for players prioritizing speed (~12.0/20), control (~8.5/20), and spin (~9.5/20). Its Arylate-Carbon technology distinguishes it by offering a unique "ALC-touch" feel that is softer than pure carbon blades.

Against the Fan Zhendong ALC, it is slower but provides better spin and a softer touch. Compared to the Viscaria, it is slower but offers superior spin due to its more flexible outer plies.

Players praise its "exceptional speed-spin balance," "effectiveness in topspin play for all-round players," and "premium ALC feel." The weight (~90 g) and balanced construction make it ideal for players seeking a stable racket.

For enhanced grip, consider Butterfly Soft Grip Tape, and use edge tape to protect the blade from table impacts. With its versatility, power, and value, the Freitas ALC is a top-tier choice for advanced/professional players aiming to refine their attacking techniques and dominate at the table or mid-distance!

Who Should Use the Butterfly Freitas ALC?

This blade is designed for offensive and all-round players who:

• Are advanced (3–7 years of experience) seeking a fast, controllable blade with superb speed-spin balance.

• Are professionals relying on topspins, flicks, blocks, and smashes.

• Prioritize spin and versatility, favoring precise, spin-heavy attacks.

• Play close to the table or mid-distance, optimizing topspin play and quick counters.

Advantages:

• Speed (12.0/20): Ideal for aggressive topspins, flicks, and smashes.

• Control (8.5/20): Reliable in fast rallies and precise placements.

• Spin (9.5/20): High spin potential for serves and loops.

• Trajectory (8.1/10): Medium-high arc for spin-heavy attacks.

• Arylate-Carbon tech: Provides unique "ALC-touch" feel with speed, stability, and elasticity.

• Stability: ~90 g weight ensures comfort and consistency.

• Durability: High-quality materials guarantee longevity.

• ITTF-approved: Legal for tournament play.

Final Verdict:

The Butterfly Freitas ALC is an elite offensive blade merging speed, spin, and control through Arylate-Carbon technology. It empowers players to refine attacking techniques and dominate at the table or mid-distance, making it a premier choice for advanced and professional competitors.

Butterfly Freitas ALC

Butterfly Freitas ALC

Butterfly Freitas ALC