Weight
88g
Thickness
5.8mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
159x151
Handles
FL
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Yinhe Carbokev K-4
Yinhe Carbokev K-4 is a versatile hybrid blade that masterfully balances speed with control, making it a top choice for spin-focused attackers. Its signature Carbokev technology, a blend of carbon and Kevlar fibers, delivers a softer, more responsive feel than pure carbon blades while expanding the sweet spot and enhancing dwell time. This construction supports powerful looping and spin-oriented attacks, providing ample power for offense while maintaining impressive consistency in the short game and on blocks. It bridges the gap between traditional wood and modern composites, offering intermediate to advanced players a perfect fusion of classic touch and contemporary technology.
This 7-ply construction uses two layers of Carbokev composite material sandwiched between five wood veneers. The outer Koto plies provide a hard, crisp surface for spin and speed. The inner Limba and Kiri layers add flexibility and feel. The strategically placed Carbokev layers enhance the sweet spot, increase dwell time, and deliver that signature softer, more controlled response compared to standard carbon blades.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
With a speed rating of 8.4, the Carbokev K-4 is a fast blade built for offensive play. This pace comes from its hybrid construction where the Carbokev layers add significant power. However, the blend with Kevlar and wood preserves a degree of flexibility and dwell time, preventing it from feeling overly harsh or uncontrollable. It provides plenty of zip for powerful loops and put-away shots, though players seeking the ultimate in raw acceleration might look for blades with more concentrated carbon.
Scoring an 8.8 in control, the Carbokev K-4 offers an exceptional level of command. This is a direct result of the Carbokev composite, which increases dwell time and provides clear, responsive feedback on every shot. The extended contact allows for superior spin generation and precise ball placement, making controlled loops, delicate pushes, and stable blocks feel intuitive and reliable.
The Carbokev K-4 delivers a medium feel that is noticeably softer and more soulful than typical carbon blades. The Kevlar in the composite dampens harshness, resulting in a pleasant, communicative vibration on impact. You get a good connection with the ball, aided by a degree of flex that helps with spin generation, making it feel more organic and controlled than stiffer, pure-carbon alternatives.
The blade produces a medium-high throw angle, which is ideal for offensive play. This characteristic helps create loopy, arcing topspin shots that dive sharply onto the table, making it easier to apply continuous attacking pressure and land powerful loops with safety.
Dwell time is a key strength, rated at 8.0. The Carbokev layers and the overall blade composition are designed to keep the ball on the racket face longer. This extended contact is crucial for brushing the ball effectively, allowing players to generate heavy topspin and execute spin-loaded loops with greater ease and consistency.
With a flexibility rating of 7.0, the blade sits in the medium-flexible range. The inner wood plies allow for a perceptible flex during powerful strokes, which helps in loading the ball with spin and absorbing pace. It's not overly stiff, giving it a dynamic feel that contributes significantly to its control and versatility in various playing situations.
Vibration is moderate, providing clear and useful feedback without being jarring. The blade design successfully balances the crisp response of carbon with the damping effect of Kevlar and wood. You can feel the ball contact distinctly, which aids in touch shots and understanding the quality of your stroke, but it never feels numb or excessively harsh.
The build quality is very good, especially considering its accessible price point. Our testing shows attention to detail, such as protective wax sealing on the blade edges to guard against chipping and damage from impacts. The materials feel solid and well-bonded, resulting in a durable blade that holds up well to regular, intense play without compromising performance.
Technology
The core technology is the 'Carbokev' composite, a specialized layer weaving together vertical carbon fibers and horizontal Kevlar fibers. This innovative blend aims to capture carbon's benefits—like a larger sweet spot and increased speed—while using Kevlar to soften the feel, dampen vibration, and significantly boost dwell time. The result is a blade that feels more controlled and spin-friendly than traditional carbon models. It's engineered for a hybrid style that doesn't force a choice between power and touch, supporting both aggressive shots and nuanced control.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Timo Boll Spirit
The Carbokev K-4 is frequently discussed as a performance analogue to the Timo Boll Spirit. Both use a 5+2 ply structure with composite layers—Arylate-Carbon in the Spirit and Carbokev in the K-4. They share a similar blend of speed, spin, and dwell time. For players drawn to the Spirit's well-rounded offensive character, the K-4 presents a highly capable and more budget-conscious option with a remarkably comparable feel.
Butterfly Viscaria
Many players also note similarities with the iconic Viscaria. While the Viscaria uses Arylate-Carbon, the K-4's Carbokev layers aim for a comparable performance profile: offensive power, excellent spin potential, and a feel that balances stiffness with a touch of softness. For those interested in the Viscaria's versatile, attack-oriented style, the K-4 serves as an excellent and more accessible alternative to explore.