Butterfly Sriver EL

Rubber description:

The Butterfly Sriver EL is a classic table tennis rubber renowned for its all-around performance and versatility, making it a favorite among both beginners and intermediate players. With a balanced mix of speed (rated 10), spin (8), and control (8.5), this rubber allows players to execute a variety of strokes effectively, from looping to blocking and pushing. The Sriver EL features a slightly softer sponge compared to its older sibling, the original Sriver, which enhances control and feel during play without compromising too much on speed.

When it comes to tackiness, the Sriver EL scores a modest 2.7, providing sufficient grip for generating spin while still being manageable for players still mastering their techniques. The rubber is lightweight, positioned at a low weight rating of 4, which adds to its ease of use and appeal for quick, reactive playstyles. Players appreciate the durability of the Sriver EL, with a durability rating of 7.2, allowing for long-term use without significant degradation in performance—a crucial factor for those seeking a reliable option.

For players considering alternatives, while the Sriver EL excels in control and is particularly effective on backhand, players looking for faster or spin-heavy options might explore Tensor rubbers like Tenergy or the newer Acuda series. However, for those focused on developing a solid foundation and consistent gameplay, the Butterfly Sriver EL remains a legendary choice that continues to serve players well across various skill levels.

Recent Reviews

#1 — November 2017

I used this rubber for approximately 4 years (with some breaks) without changing it, and it still felt barely used. I purchased the rubber again, but as my play improved, the rubber began to feel slightly slow.

The control is excellent; it goes where you direct it. The spin is somewhat underwhelming but manageable. There are numerous better rubbers available for a lower price, but I would highly recommend this one to an amateur or intermediate player in all aspects.

#2 — November 2016

When I first started playing, I used this rubber on my backhand. This rubber is likely meant to be boosted, but that’s no longer an option. It has good control, but it’s simply too slow without any additional tuning. If you’re not planning to tune the rubber yourself, just get a modern tensor rubber (e.g., tenergy, omega, acuda, mx). While it’s still a good rubber for beginners, if you’re going to invest in a new setup, you might as well get something better.

#3 — July 2016

Review:

This rubber excels for backhand play, providing effortless blocking, flipping, and pushing. It is equally impressive for attacking shots. Despite its initial stiffness upon pressing, it feels medium-soft while playing. Offering remarkable control, this rubber is ideal for beginners and intermediate players. Its linear nature responds precisely to the player’s input.