Butterfly Zhang Jike ALC
Blade description:
The Butterfly Zhang Jike ALC is a premier table tennis blade that caters specifically to players seeking a blend of speed, control, and the soft feel of wood complemented by advanced materials. This blade incorporates a hybrid composition of 5 plies of high-quality wood paired with 2 plies of arylate-carbon, resulting in a total thickness of 5.7mm. Weighing in at approximately 86 grams, it strikes a balance that appeals to both offensive and defensive players without feeling overly heavy.
Designed for dynamic play, the Zhang Jike ALC offers exceptional flexibility, enabling players to execute powerful topspin shots and precise loops with ease. Its medium stiffness (rated at 5.4) allows for an excellent dwell time that enhances spin production while providing expansive control across varied playing styles. The blade’s standout characteristics feature a speed rating of 9, offering quick responses without compromising the control score of 9.3, making it suitable for players who enjoy a balanced yet aggressive game.
For those considering alternatives, the Zhang Jike ALC can be compared to the Butterfly Viscaria or the Timo Boll ALC, both of which are renowned in the table tennis community. While the Viscaria is praised for its minor vibrations and feel, many players find the Zhang Jike ALC to deliver superior control, particularly in mid-distance play. The versatility of the Zhang Jike ALC allows it to shine with various rubbers, making it a suitable choice for experienced players looking to enhance their game. Overall, this blade is highly regarded for its combination of speed, control, and user-friendly design, making it an excellent investment for those serious about their table tennis performance.
Recent Reviews
#1 — June 2025
Wonderful blade. It’s a unique ALC Butterfly blade, unlike others in its class.
When comparing it with Viscaria, Boll ALC, and Spirit ALC, the ZJK ALC undoubtedly has a softer touch, significantly more control, more dwell time, and enhanced feeling. Despite weighing 92g, the ZJK doesn’t lack top-end speed.
This blade is a spin monster in the right hands. The throw angle is medium-high when paired with Nittaku G1 on the forehand and Xiom Vega Pro on the backhand. While all the blades compared here are good in their own ways, the differences are subtle. However, I found the ZJK to be the easiest to use and achieve the same results.
Unfortunately, this blade is due to go out of production soon.
#2 — March 2024
Like I said, the 88 gr blade is slower than the 90 gr blade. I have two at 90 gr, and I sold one because it was slower. This is because Butterfly’s standards have declined since the 1980s and 1990s. If you know how to identify the center of gravity of a paddle, you can determine its future setup. The standard distance from the handle is about 25 mm.
#3 — March 2024
I have been using the ZJK ALC (88g) for about 5-6 months. I have Andro R53 (ultr max) on the forehand and Butterfly D05 (2.1) on the backhand.
It’s pretty fast, but with control. I really like blocking/active blocking at both ends, and it’s effective. I like the feeling of it. I tried Viscaria before getting this, but it had too much vibration for my liking. However, ZJK ALC is perfect for me.
I like the rubber setup as well. It fits well on ZJK ALC for my playing style, which is closer to the table and mid-distance. However, close to the table, it’s superb. I really love the active blocking feeling, and it sets me up for a return perfectly.
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