Weight
81.5g
Thickness
6.1mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
158x152
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
BalsaCarbo X5 22
Butterfly BalsaCarbo X5 22 is an offensive table tennis blade that masterfully blends a lightweight feel with direct power and exceptional touch. Its construction centers on a thick Balsa wood core, celebrated for its lightness and superb ball sensation, which is reinforced by two carbon fiber layers for added stability and precision. This unique combination excels in close-to-the-table play, enabling effortless blocking and powerful topspin shots. Ideal for players who prioritize maneuverability and a soft, responsive touch, it allows for precise placement and consistent performance in fast attacking rallies.
The blade features a 5-ply construction with a central Balsa core. This is flanked by two carbon fiber layers, and then the outermost layers are wood. This construction aims to provide the lightweight feel and dwell time of Balsa, combined with the stability and power of carbon, all encased in wood for a balanced feel.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
BalsaCarbo X5 22 is classified as an offensive blade. Its Balsa core allows for easy generation of swing speed, while the carbon layers provide additional power. It excels in close-to-the-table offensive play, offering good speed for direct attacks and loops. However, players requiring extreme power from mid-to-far distances might find it slightly lacking compared to heavier, stiffer blades.
The blade's soft feel, longer dwell time from the Balsa core, and lighter weight contribute to exceptional control. It allows players to execute precise placements, soft blocks, and controlled loops with confidence. This forgiving nature makes it suitable for players developing their offensive game who need a reliable platform for consistent shot-making.
The Balsa core provides a distinctly soft and sensitive feel, allowing players to sense the ball exceptionally well on contact. This soft touch is a major highlight, making it excellent for close-to-table exchanges and precise shot execution.
Players report a medium to medium-high throw angle, particularly when paired with certain rubbers. This allows for a good arc on loops, facilitating spin and net clearance for offensive play.
The Balsa core contributes to a longer ball dwell time, which is beneficial for generating spin and providing a softer feel on shots. This extended contact time allows for more controlled loops and sensitive touch play.
It offers a good balance of flexibility from the Balsa core, which aids in dwell time and feel, and stiffness from the carbon layers, which provides stability for offensive strokes. It's not overly stiff, allowing for a more dynamic feel.
The combination of Balsa and carbon results in a noticeable vibration that provides clear feedback without being excessive or uncomfortable for most offensive players.
Build quality is generally considered good, especially given its attractive price point for a Butterfly blade. However, the inherent nature of Balsa wood makes it more susceptible to damage compared to traditional wood or composite blades. Careful handling is recommended to maintain its integrity over time.
Technology
Butterfly BalsaCarbo X5 22 is engineered to combine the distinct properties of Balsa wood and carbon fiber. The blade's core features a thick Balsa ply, chosen for its inherent lightness and excellent ball-feeling characteristics. This Balsa core is sandwiched between two layers of carbon fiber, strategically placed to add structural rigidity, stability, and a direct power-enhancing element. The outermost wood layers complete the 5-ply construction. This hybrid approach aims to deliver superior touch and control sought by offensive players, while ensuring sufficient power for aggressive play, particularly close to the table.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Balsa Carbo X7 22
Balsa Carbo X7 22 is another blade from Butterfly that utilizes a Balsa core with carbon layers, suggesting a similar feel and playing characteristics. It is likely designed for offensive play, aiming to offer a slightly different balance of speed, control, and feel compared to the X5, possibly with more emphasis on power or different dwell characteristics.
Butterfly Maze
While not a Balsa blade, Butterfly Maze is frequently mentioned in discussions alongside BalsaCarbo X5. Players who moved from the X5 to the Maze often sought a bit more power or a different feel, indicating the Maze is a popular alternative for offensive players looking for a high-performance Butterfly blade, though it differs in material composition.