Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC is a high-performance 5+2 ply composite blade that incorporates Arylate-Carbon (ALC) layers for a harmonious blend of speed, control, and refined touch. Categorized as an OFF (offensive) blade, it features outer ALC construction, offering a crisp, direct feel with a moderately high arc, ideal for aggressive topspin attackers.
Developed in collaboration with world champion Fan Zhendong, this blade is tailored for advanced players who rely on spin-based looping and precise counterplay. It maintains stability during intense rallies while providing feedback and consistency across varied stroke mechanics.
Ideal for: Advanced loopers, two-winged attackers, and aggressive all-rounders seeking speed with control and feel.
Specs
Type: Offensive
Plies: 5 wood + 2 ALC (Outer Ply: Koto)
Composite Layer: Arylate-Carbon (ALC)
Thickness: 5.8 mm
Weight: 87g
Speed (Manufacturer): N/A
Control (Manufacturer): N/A
Handle Type: FL / ST
Made In: Japan
Pros
Fast and crisp rebound for offensive play with high arc potential
Excellent dwell time for an outer-carbon blade, loopers will appreciate the brushing feel
Large and consistent sweet spot, forgiving even on off-center hits
Top-tier build quality typical of Butterfly’s premium blades
Cons
Less dwell than inner-carbon options like Innerforce ALC for touch-focused loopers
May feel too direct for players coming from softer or all-wood blades
Premium pricing compared to similar ALC-class blades
Scoring Breakdown
Aspect
Rating
Explanation
Speed
4.0
Delivers fast rebound suitable for power loops and counters, but not overly bouncy, good dwell remains.
Control
4.5
Balanced feel and feedback help maintain placement accuracy, especially in the short game.
Stiffness
4.0
Slightly stiff due to outer ALC layers, offering quick rebound and consistent energy return.
Vibration Feel
3.0
Moderately dampened, but outer carbon provides enough feedback without being overly muted.
Dwell Time
4.0
Excellent dwell for an outer-carbon blade, aiding spin generation and brush looping.
Sweet Spot
5.0
Large, forgiving sweet spot thanks to Butterfly’s craftsmanship and carbon construction.
Build Quality
5.0
Premium finish, flawless lamination, and elegant craftsmanship made in Japan.
Core Performance Aspects
Looping & Topspin Play
Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC is excellent in spin-focused offensive play. Its outer ALC layer paired with a Koto outer ply generates a medium-high arc, which helps land deep topspin shots with safety. There’s a crisp rebound feel, yet the dwell time is sufficient for heavy brush loops, especially effective on FH opening loops. Spin is easy to generate and control with proper mechanics, making it great for loop-to-loop exchanges.
Driving & Flat Hitting
On direct hits and smashes, the blade feels responsive and energetic. The stiffness of the outer ALC construction delivers a punchy feel with high precision, allowing fast drive counters and kills. However, the blade still retains just enough flex to avoid feeling overly rigid.
Blocking & Passive Control
Blocking is one of Fan Zhendong ALC’s strongest areas. The blade feels solid and predictable during incoming fast loops. Passive blocks remain stable, and there’s enough clarity in vibration to adjust your hand angle. Active punch blocks and redirections are very reliable with minimal blade flutter.
Serve & Short Game
In the short game, the Fan Zhendong ALC offers good feedback and touch control for an outer-carbon blade. Pushes stay low, and flicks are easy to execute due to its compact rebound behavior. While not as forgiving as innerforce-style blades in delicate touch shots, it performs admirably for its speed class.
Mid-to-Far Distance Play
From mid-distance, the blade continues to deliver consistent speed and trajectory. Its power holds up well for rallies three to four steps off the table. At far distance, more effort is needed compared to super-stiff blades (like Viscaria Super ALC), but advanced players can still loop with depth and authority.
Strategic Considerations
Comparison to Similar Blades
Compared to the Butterfly Viscaria, which also features outer ALC and Koto, the Fan Zhendong ALC feels slightly more linear and compact in rebound. It offers more control and dwell than Viscaria but less than Innerforce ALC. Players who felt Viscaria was too springy or flat may find this blade more balanced.
Backhand: Works well with medium rubbers (e.g., Tenergy 80, Rozena, Xiom Vega Pro) to take advantage of the crisp touch.
Ideal Playstyle Fit
Fan Zhendong ALC is best for modern two-winged loopers or aggressive all-round players who want fast topspin play with control and touch. It suits players who value feedback and structure in their attacking game without sacrificing consistency.
Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC offers a refined balance of power and control in a fast outer-carbon package. Designed for loopers and attackers, it delivers consistent performance across all distances with a satisfying crispness and excellent build quality. A top-tier choice for players transitioning into high-level offensive play.
If you’re searching for a versatile, high-performance OFF blade that balances speed and spin with world-class craftsmanship, the Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC deserves a serious look. Check the best offers from trusted table tennis retailers below.
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One comment
How does the FZD alc compare to the Harimoto alc in spin creation.Since I’m a advanced intermidiate player that has played for 3 years with the same racket wich has been a dhs h8002 premade.I’m just looking to find wich one between those two blades I should choose.I will be using dhs hurricane 3 neo fh and hurricane 8-80 bh.
How does the FZD alc compare to the Harimoto alc in spin creation.Since I’m a advanced intermidiate player that has played for 3 years with the same racket wich has been a dhs h8002 premade.I’m just looking to find wich one between those two blades I should choose.I will be using dhs hurricane 3 neo fh and hurricane 8-80 bh.