Yasaka Ma Lin Carbon – a versatile 5+2 ply offensive table tennis blade, developed in collaboration with the legendary player Ma Lin. Weighing around 86 g with a thickness of ~5.5 mm, it features CFNW (Carbon Fleece Non-Woven) carbon fiber layers placed closer to the core, ensuring a balance of speed, power, and control. Made in Sweden and ITTF approved, this blade suits both looping attackers and all-round players looking for stability and precision.
Key Features:
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Blade type: ALL+ to OFF
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Composition: 5 wood plies (limba, ayous) + 2 CFNW carbon plies
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Weight: ~86 g
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Thickness: ~5.5 mm
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Speed: 86/100 (~9/10)
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Control: 73/100 (~7.5/10)
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Head size: 157 x 150 mm
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Handle types: FL, ST, AN, CHN
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Approval: ITTF certified
The Ma Lin Carbon consists of 5 wood layers (outer limba, inner and core ayous) and 2 CFNW carbon plies placed closer to the core (Innerfiber construction). This structure reduces vibrations, increases ball contact time, and provides a more "natural" feel compared to outer carbon blades like the Butterfly Zhang Jike Super ZLC. With a thickness of 5.5 mm and a weight of 86 g, it’s light and maneuverable. Its standard-sized 157 x 150 mm head gives a generous sweet spot. Speed and control ratings (86/100 and 73/100) suggest medium-high speed with moderate control, ideal for ALL+ to OFF playing styles. Being ITTF approved, it’s suitable for competition.
Ma Lin Carbon is tailored for controlled offensive play:
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Speed: 86/100 (~9/10)
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Control: 73/100 (~7.5/10)
This places it in the ALL+ to OFF category, offering sufficient speed for topspins, drives, and counter-attacks. The extended ball contact, ensured by the limba surface and Innerfiber construction, enables powerful spin generation (9/10 for looping), especially when paired with Rakza Z or Tenergy 05 rubbers. However, its control rating means it requires proper technique, especially for blocking or short play. Compared to the Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLC (speed 9.25/10, control 7.5/10), Ma Lin Carbon is slower but offers a similar ball-holding feel. Compared to the Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC (speed 9.25/10, control 9/10), it’s lighter and less controlled, but also more affordable.
This 5+2 ply blade uses CFNW layers near the core to create medium flexibility and smooth energy transfer. Its 5.5 mm thickness is slightly thinner than Fan Zhendong ALC (5.8 mm), and at 86 g (range 81–89 g), it's lighter than Zhang Jike Super ZLC (90 g). The blade has moderate vibration, which helps generate spin but may hinder blocking. The large sweet spot enhances precision, while the limba surface gives a "woody" feel for soft shots. It pairs well with Rakza X (for speed), Rakza Z (for spin), Donic Bluefire JP01, or Xiom Omega VII Pro. Users note that it's forgiving and suits players transitioning from all-wood blades, though a full stroke is needed for max speed.
The Ma Lin Carbon comes in four handle options:
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Flared (FL)
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Straight (ST)
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Anatomic (AN)
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Chinese penhold (CHN)
Exact handle dimensions aren't specified, but FL and AN are wider, ST is narrower, and CHN is shorter and suitable for RPB (reverse penhold backhand) players. Handles are made in Sweden, though some users report rough edges or fragile side wood – using edge tape is recommended. The neutral balance supports smooth transitions between forehand and backhand. CHN handle users especially appreciate its lightness and speed.
Ma Lin Carbon is ideal for versatile offensive players focused on topspin, blocking, and controlled attacking. Great for intermediate players transitioning from wood blades (e.g., Yasaka Sweden Extra), or beginners looking for an introduction to carbon feel. Its long ball contact makes it effective in close-to-table looping, though it also works from mid-distance. Compared to Donic Waldner Senso Carbon, it’s similarly ALL+/OFF oriented but cheaper (~$60 vs. ~$80). It's less suited to ultra-aggressive hitters compared to Butterfly Timo Boll ALC due to lower speed and hardness. Users say it's underrated, with excellent value for money.
In summary, Ma Lin Carbon stands out as an affordable carbon blade offering speed (86/100), spin (9/10), and solid control (73/100). Its Innerfiber CFNW structure and limba top ply create a woody feel and a large sweet spot, while Swedish craftsmanship ensures quality. Compared to premium blades like Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLC, it’s cheaper but slightly harder to control. ITTF approval and Ma Lin's legacy make it appealing. Users praise its versatility, though some critique its vibrations and edge fragility.
Yasaka Ma Lin Carbon is ITTF approved and suitable for all competitive levels. Its speed and spin capabilities support solid rally play, especially for looping and blocking. The large sweet spot helps maintain precision, though vibration may interfere with blocking. It suits technique-focused, spin-oriented players.
Yasaka Ma Lin Carbon – an affordable offensive blade blending speed, spin, and control. With 5+2 CFNW layers, a large sweet spot, and Swedish quality, it delivers excellent performance. A perfect pick for all-round attackers seeking Ma Lin’s style. Ma Lin Carbon – power, precision, and great price!