Kreanga PowerKev Carbon

Weight

88.5g

Thickness

5.6mm

Plies

7-ply

Head Size

157x150

Material

Hybrid

Head Shape

Standard

Balance

Balanced

Butterfly

Kreanga PowerKev Carbon

2010

Butterfly Kreanga PowerKev Carbon is a hybrid offensive blade built for players who demand power without sacrificing precision. Its 7-ply construction integrates Kevlar-Carbon layers within the core, creating an enlarged sweet spot that delivers explosive topspins while maintaining excellent control for blocking and placement. This blade strikes a compelling balance, making it a versatile choice for intermediate to advanced attackers who value both speed and feel in their game.

7-Ply Construction

This 7-ply construction uses a symmetrical build: outer Koto layers for crispness and snap, followed by Meranti, then inner Kevlar-Carbon composite layers, and a central Ayous wood core. This sandwich design places the speed-enhancing fibers away from the surface, moderating stiffness and promoting a more controlled, feeling-based playing experience compared to outer-carbon blades.

TT Sensei Ratings

Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics

Speed
9.0

Kreanga PowerKev Carbon generates impressive offensive power. The inner Kevlar-Carbon composite acts as a potent accelerator, propelling the ball with high speed, especially on full swings and topspin drives. Our testing shows it sits firmly in the fast category, capable of dictating rallies, though its speed feels more integrated and manageable than some stiffer carbon blades.

Control
8.8

Control is a standout feature for such a powerful blade. The enlarged sweet spot and the dampening effect of the inner composite layers provide excellent stability and precision. Players report a high degree of accuracy on blocks, placements, and even during aggressive topspin exchanges, making it easier to maintain consistency while attacking.

Feel
Medium-Soft
SoftMedium-SoftHard

The feel is notably softer and more forgiving than blades with outer carbon layers. The ball sinks into the paddle slightly, providing good tactile feedback. This medium-soft character enhances control in the short game and allows for better sensation during spin-oriented shots.

Throw Angle
Medium-High
LowMedium-HighHigh

The throw angle is medium-high, which is ideal for an offensive topspin game. This characteristic helps players generate powerful, arcing loops that clear the net with safety and dive onto the opponent's side, making it effective for sustained attacking rallies.

Dwell Time
7.5

Dwell time is good, aided by the blade's medium-soft feel and hybrid construction. The ball stays on the racket face long enough to impart heavy spin on serves and loops, giving players a sense of connection and aiding in spin generation during aggressive topspin rallies.

Flexibility
6.5

The blade exhibits moderate flexibility. It offers a blend of stiffness for direct power on drives and a slight flex that aids in feel and catapult effect for loops. This balance contributes to its versatility across different strokes and distances from the table.

Vibration
4.5

Vibration is moderate and well-damped. The Kevlar component effectively absorbs much of the harsh feedback common in stiff carbon blades, resulting in a cleaner, more comfortable feel on impact. This makes for a less fatiguing playing experience over long sessions.

Quality
8.5

Build quality is excellent, reflecting Butterfly's high manufacturing standards. The layers are even and well-bonded, with neat, polished edges. The finish is precise and durable, ensuring the blade feels solid and reliable in hand, contributing to its overall premium feel and performance consistency.

Technology

The core technology is the strategic integration of a Kevlar-Carbon composite as inner plies. Kevlar provides exceptional strength and vibration dampening, while carbon fiber adds stiffness and speed. Placing this composite inside the wood stack, rather than on the outer surface, creates a unique performance profile: it delivers the power and rebound of carbon while offering a softer feel, better control, and reduced harshness typically associated with outer-carbon blades.

Pro Players Using This Blade

Kalinikos Kreanga

The blade bears the name of the legendary Greek attacker Kalinikos Kreanga, renowned for his devastating forehand topspin and powerful backhand. While direct match usage of this specific model is not widely documented, it was developed with his input and reflects his preference for a blade that offers tremendous power for winners while retaining the control necessary for his precise and technical all-around attacking style.

Similar Blades

DHS 301 Series

For players seeking a similar performance profile, the DHS 301 series (such as the 301, 301X, or 301T) presents a compelling alternative. These blades also feature an inner composite layer, often Aramid-Carbon, with a Koto outer ply. Many players find they offer a comparable blend of inner-fiber power, good control, and a manageable feel, making them a practical option for those who appreciate the Kreanga PowerKev Carbon's characteristics.