Butterfly Timo Boll ALC vs Stiga Allround Classic: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Timo Boll ALC | Stiga Allround Classic | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| feel | medium | soft, high control |
| handle | FL/ST/AN | FL/ST/AN |
| plies | 5W+2 Arylate-Carbon | 5W |
| speed | OFF | ALL |
| thickness_mm | 5.8 | 5.1 |
| weight_g | 86 | 75 |
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This is a pro-tier carbon blade against the most famous learner’s blade in the sport, so the choice is really about where you are in your development. The Timo Boll ALC is fast, OFF, premium-priced and built around a huge sweet spot for an attacking shakehand with a developed stroke. The Stiga Allround Classic is a soft, slow, all-wood ALL blade with class-leading control and honest feedback — the blade that has taught generations to feel the ball, at a budget price.
Pick the Stiga Allround Classic if you are a beginner or developing player building technique, or a control player who values touch and placement. Pick the Timo Boll ALC if you already have a sound stroke and want premium speed and spin from mid-distance.
Many players start on the Allround Classic and graduate to a blade like the ALC later — both are excellent, just for different stages.
FAQ
Should a beginner buy the Timo Boll ALC?
Usually not. It is a fast OFF blade that rewards a developed stroke. The Stiga Allround Classic is the safer, cheaper learner blade and teaches better technique.
Can the Stiga Allround Classic be used for attack?
Yes, with faster rubbers it plays an all-round offensive game, but it lacks the inherent power of a carbon blade like the ALC away from the table.
Is the price difference worth it?
Only if you have the technique to use the ALC speed. Otherwise the Allround Classic gives more learning value and control for far less money.