Stiga Carbonado 290

Composite/carbon 8 reviews

≈ 93 grams ≈ 1496 Hz

Blade description:

The Stiga Carbonado 290 is a high-level table tennis blade designed for the aggressive player seeking unparalleled speed and control. Distinguished by its advanced composition, the blade features a blend of five layers of wood and two layers of carbon fiber, offering a perfect balance of power and finesse. At 6mm thick and weighing approximately 97 grams, it has a substantial feel while remaining reasonably lightweight for swift maneuverability.

The blade’s characteristics include a speed rating of 9, cementing its status as an OFF+ rated blade ideal for fast-paced attacks, flicks, and smashes. Despite its evident speed, the Carbonado 290 doesn’t compromise on control, receiving a respectable rating of 6, although some players have noted a slight learning curve regarding its control, particularly in more complex spin situations. The blade’s stiffness is rated at 7.3, contributing to its powerful performance, while the hardness rating of 8.1 ensures it delivers a satisfying feedback during ball strikes, enhancing the player’s confidence.

Flexibility-wise, this blade has a relatively stiff feel, catering predominantly to offensive playing styles. However, many users have found it versatile enough to accommodate all-around and defensive strategies as well. Alternatives such as the Primorac Carbon and other noteworthy models may appeal to different preferences, but the Carbonado 290 stands out through its unique construction and performance characteristics. Overall, this blade has earned high praise for its outstanding consistency, high-quality build, and capability to elevate a player’s game, making it a formidable choice for serious table tennis enthusiasts.

Recent Reviews

#1 — February 2023

Incredible if you like it stiff. I paired it with DNA Platinum XH on forehand and M on backhand in max thickness.

Great at everything if you like your blades rock hard and know how to handle the power.

That being said, it’s not easy to do that consistently with my technique over longer rallies, so look to finish the point fast with this one.

It wants to be played extremely aggressively; that’s where it shines.

Totally love this blade, a clear winner for fast-paced players.

Next to the Primorac Carbon, it’s the most dense blade on the planet. You can’t get much stiffer than this unless you have one made by hand.

#2 — December 2020

Very fast blade with a soft (outer) feeling, like slippers! High-frequency wavelength…one of my fastest blades. Paired with Andro R42 2mm, it produces powerful smashes, very good spin, and a low throw angle. It offers good control in the short game and is effortless at mid-distance. However, it is a heavy blade (95g). It is also excellent in defense.

#3 — July 2020

I am now using the 290. I used the XVT ZLC Koto before with different, faster rubbers like the R47. Now with a soft, very spinny, and slower rubber, the Donic Barracuda, the 290 is my best choice. The Barracuda has a very high throw, and the 290 seems low-throwing and stiff. I like playing close to the table and love the backhand flick with this setup.