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Tensor 122 reviews
Good quality rubber indeed. It’s a good choice for players from beginner to intermediate level as it’s suitable for practicing and improving technique.
When I used it on my backhand with DHS pg7, the drive, topspin, and chops were fine. It has good control and descent speed, allowing one to play with full stroke. Overall, it’s a good value for money.
Yinhe Mercury 2: Best Rubber for Beginners
For beginners, Yinhe Mercury 2 is an excellent choice. It provides good spin and control, making it ideal for learning the basics of table tennis. However, for intermediate players, it may be a bit too slow.
Yinhe Mercury 2: A Great Cheap Alternative
Despite being a budget-friendly option, Yinhe Mercury 2 offers a fantastic balance of spin, control, and speed. It’s perfect for those on a tight budget who prioritize value for money.
After many years of not playing, I started with Mark V max on FH and 2.0 on BH. I glued them onto Ma Lin Extra Offensive. It gave me a lot of control, which allowed me to recall what I had learned years ago and polish my technique. After a couple of months, I started to miss speed. My friend gave me Waldner Senso Carbon. The transformation was amazing! The rubbers went from being slow, with almost no spin, to being fast, with nice spin and still with high control. They allow for great loops, easy blocks, top spins, and don’t require as much power as with a wooden blade. These rubbers are terrific and can be a fast, precise weapon with an OFF carbon blade.
Are you seeking a dependable rubber to kickstart your table tennis journey? Look no further than this beginner-friendly option. It’s a no-brainer to acquire two sheets (2.0 thickness) for both forehand (FH) and backhand (BH). Commence practicing and witness swift improvements.
While some may advocate using a Stiga Sriver rubber for your BH, this rubber perfectly complements most ALL to ALL+ blades. Noteworthy is the observation that numerous players utilizing OFF- blades have reverted to the Mark V, a testament to its exceptional performance.
In comparison with the Sriver, I favor the Mark V for its enhanced stability, precision, and exceptional spin and block response. I confidently bestow this rubber with a solid 9 out of 10 rating and anticipate its popularity to soar.
My first forehand rubber, this is great for beginners and intermediate players. It offers a lot of control and is very forgiving when you hit it. You can generate spin with it if you have the right technique. Brushing the ball is effective with the right technique. It’s very durable; I’ve had it for a year and am only switching to DHS Hurricane 3 now (I train 3 to 4 times a week).
Good rubber for starting table tennis. All time and all style classic rubber.
I recently installed a 1.8mm Yasaka Mark V on my Juic Seiha Carbon on my forehand. The spin is marvelous as always, both for loops and power topspins. The speed is quite above average, considering the characteristics of the new ABS Polyball 40+. The glue used was DHS #15 water-based.
It might not have the speed of newer tensor rubbers, but I strongly believe that with the right technique and strategy, the Yasaka Mark V can still be a viable weapon in the current table tennis arena.
Great rubber. Provides great spin and rotation. It lasts very long.
Do not recommend. No speed at all, average spin, and even cheap Chinese rubbers can do better.
If you’re considering buying a custom bat, you’ll likely find the vast range of rubber options bewildering. In this case, I highly recommend getting the Yasaka Mark V.
Compared to rubbers found on pre-made bats, it’s relatively fast with great control and spin. This allows you to go for every shot without fear of the ball flying off the table. I’ve been using it for a few years now, and it still performs to the level it did when it was new. It’s highly durable and will serve you well.
In summary, if it’s good enough for Ma Lin (who used it to win multiple world titles), it’s good enough for an intermediate player.
What I would NOT recommend is getting too fast a rubber when you’re just starting out. The speed can make it very hard to control the ball, making you hesitant and unable to play a full stroke.
I have used this rubber on an old Stiga offensive classic since 1992. At that time, it was very fast and difficult to play with. I believe it was the fastest rubber on the market. Today, I think it’s possible to play with it more easily. However, there are so many rubbers on the market that it’s right to buy one in a low thickness, which you can easily find.
Mine are both 2.0, and it’s good to block, but when you smash by backhand, it’s pretty uncontrollable. It’s fast, but you can find better and more spinny rubber even for the forehand. If you are an experienced player, you can play with it. However, if you are not, it’s better to try something else, such as Donic Coppa or others with a harder sponge.
This is just a short review, or maybe a confession. After more than three decades, I have finally returned to the sport of table tennis. Several months ago, I began testing various blades and rubbers.
The following is a list of the equipment I have tried:
Blades:
Rubbers:
My primary realization is that the Yasaka Mark V is the best rubber I have used, after experimenting with numerous combinations of blades and rubbers. This revelation has significantly improved my performance.
Initially, when I paired the Mark V with the Yasaka Ma Lin EO blade, I did not find the rubber to be exceptional. However, with time and practice, I have come to appreciate its true potential. It is a genuine “do-it-all” rubber, allowing me to execute all strokes with ease and precision.
My power loops, smashes, punches, hits, drives, blocks, and chops have all benefited from the Mark V. It is important to note that I am primarily a penholder but have been practicing with the FL grip as well.
When using the Cpen grip, I emulate Ma Lin’s style, while with the FL grip, I adopt Kreanga’s style, focusing on powerful backhand shots.
To fully utilize the Mark V’s capabilities, a certain level of skill is required. It is not suitable for beginners who may not be able to access all of its features.
Advanced players continue to use the Mark V because they have mastered the art of unlocking its full potential.
That concludes my review.
Great training rubber. Smash and spin look easy. Control could be improved by using a 2.0 mm version of this rubber.
Also used this before. Now, I prefer DHS 3 Hurricane. It has a hard and medium range.
Mark V is not as bouncy as a tensor rubber, but it is not as hard or dead as Chinese rubbers either. It adds a bit of power to your strokes without totally messing up the control, which is why Mark V is famous. It complements the feeling and control of your blade.
It feels light, so it is suitable for heavier blades. The spin and speed are decent but nothing special. Designed for soft blades, it becomes too bouncy on hard blades. One disadvantage is its non-linear behavior. At higher speeds, when the ball goes deeper into the rubber, the throw is medium-high. At slow speeds, the throw is medium/low. This means at higher speeds you have to close the racket angle and open it at lower speeds.
The second disadvantage is its price. It definitely is not worth what you pay for it. I only recommend Mark V for beginners or those who need the rubber to compensate for their low fitness level but find tensor rubbers uncontrollable. That’s the majority of recreational players. Mark V is not suitable for high-level play where accuracy and consistency are crucial.
Great all-around rubber for players with various playstyles or a combination of defending and attacking. Looping is reasonable with this rubber.
Personally, I wasn’t convinced by Mark V and Mark V GPS. I found them too fast to begin TT with and played with Stiga All Around Classic instead. I even had to downgrade back to Vari Spin because I lacked control with them. Now with more experience, I don’t see the point in taking these rubbers instead of an entry-level tensor rubber. Mark V is now old, not made for the new ball, and not a tensor. It’s not even that good for beginners (I would prefer Vari Spin). I played with them in 1.8mm or 2mm.
I am a beginner. I used to use Vega Japan and Rakza 7 Soft. On the TSP Reflex 50 OFF blade, they felt really fast to me. I replaced them with Hurricane H8 and Mark V, and it became very safe to perform all kinds of techniques: looping, chopping, blocking, pushing… I am very happy with this combination.
Control and Spin: Excellent control and spin capabilities.
Speed: Average speed, not the fastest but provides stability.
Overall: A well-rounded rubber suitable for intermediate all-around players seeking a balance of control, spin, and speed.
Yasaka Mark V is a classic rubber. Its longevity in the market is a testament to its quality. It excels in playing topspin and blocking. It offers great control and versatility. Despite not being a tensor rubber, which is commonly used nowadays, the Mark V still performs exceptionally well and is suitable for players of all levels.
This rubber can be played on various blades, ranging from defensive (def) to offensive (off+). It adapts well to all-wood, carbon, Alc, and ZLC blades, seemingly adjusting to the characteristics of the blade it’s paired with.
Mark V is not slow. I used to think it is a beginner’s rubber, but as you develop your game, it shows you more gears. I can hit spin shots that spin sideways 2-3 feet. Also, it is fast enough with great control. It excels at close to table play with great touch for the short game as well as looping, hitting and quick counters. Very consistent.
Update-4 March 2018_some of the best players in my club still use this…they hit amazing spin and speedy loops. So the advanced players can create magic with this rubber…‘‘too many gears’’-suited for beginners as well as the advanced players…
A very good classic rubber!
Make sure to use the right thickness for your needs. For me, 2.0mm was a little too much, so next time I’ll choose 1.8mm. I played with this rubber on my backhand.
Used by Olympic champion Ma Lin, Mark V is my vote for the finest rubber in the world. It’s not slow; it’s fast with great spin, excelling at close-to-table play, looping, hitting, and quick counters. The speed-to-control ratio is high. No rubber is more consistent from sheet to sheet. It’s not as fast or spinny as tensors but offers more controlled speed, making it great for players of all levels, from beginners to pros, depending on thickness.
Concerning spin, Mark V, when used on blades with limba outer plies, generates higher spin than expected. Pair it with BTY M. Maze or Primorac for a spin machine capable of producing severe topspin. Those who find Mark V too slow simply lack technique or arm speed to unlock its full potential.
After trying most tensor rubbers, including many Tenergy’s, I returned to Mark V for its superior consistency while maintaining powerful loops and drives. It’s the perfect inverted rubber.
As an intermediate player, I’ve used everything from expensive composition blades to all four types of Tenergy’s. For greater control, speed, and spin, pair an ALL+ class blade with two sheets of Mark V max or 2.0, glued with three layers, and you’ll have a racket that feels divine. Mark V is the absolute best classic rubber in the world.
I’m baffled when I read players calling this rubber slow. A max thickness sheet glued X3 on an Off or Off+ blade provides ample speed to end a point decisively. Mark V adapts to your style due to its all-around properties. Those claiming it’s not durable likely store their racket in their car without a case. Mine lasts eight months of play, four times a week.
A perfect first rubber for custom bats! If you are a quality premade (Stiga Pro Carbon, Palio Legend) user and are looking for a step up, Mark V will not disappoint you!
The rubber (2.0mm) is fast enough to finish a point on an OFF- blade (Nittaku Latika). I have never tried any rubber and liked it on the first try as much as this one. It generates a good amount of spin, and it is more spin-sensitive than premade rackets, but still manageable.
I played with Mark V when I learned table tennis. It’s a classic rubber with a good feel and enough speed and spin to play at a higher level. It’s controllable in most game situations.
However, the new tensor rubbers are much better in every aspect.
I have used Mark V on different blades for many years. It is a great rubber that lasts a very long time. It is versatile and all-around, suitable for both forehand and backhand. It would be a great choice for beginners to medium-level players to improve their consistency.
My favorite classic rubber along with Donic Coppa, this is an all-time classic to be sure. I think too many players, especially developing or new players, pass up this rubber in favor of the newest tensors to their game’s detriment.
As a developing player, I used this rubber paired with a 5 Ply All+ blade and it really helped me develop my strokes and set a solid foundation to develop further. The control and consistency of this rubber are amazing, and it has enough speed and spin for most recreational players.
Recommended.
I used this as my rubber when I was still learning my strokes, and I have no regrets.
I have it on an old Hanson Asler—my bat that I have to say is the Rolls Royce of all. After 25 years (not using it for many years, mind you), it still does a good “ghost serve.” Its spin and durability, matched with stellar control and softness, make this the best. It is still the best rubber in the world.
I’ve used Yasaka Mark V on both sides of a Butterfly Jonyer H blade for about 10 years as my first custom TT racket. The combination absolutely knocked my socks off and took my game several notches up.
After a 9-year break, I’m returning to the game and naturally, I took the refuge of the ever-dependable Yasaka Mark V rubbers with a new Neottec Revolution blade that my friend handed to me. I can clearly see improvement in my game day by day. The combination is working wonderfully for me. Some of my old shots are returning after all those years, and I am able to learn a new range of strokes from my coach.
I can confidently say that Yasaka Mark V can do whatever you ask of it, if you have the skills and mastery over a range of strokes. Sometimes even I can’t believe that I can play some shots until I have played them with this rubber.
The perfect plan for me is to pair it with an all-round / all-round+ blade and to learn and master stroke by stroke under a good coach. That would be a very strong foundation for a solid all-round game for any aspiring TT player. Many thousands before me would have said it. And now, I am saying this. Yasaka Mark V is pure TT awesomeness!
The problem most table tennis players have is that they feel they need to find the most reactive and tensored rubber out there to get the fastest play for their game. What they don’t realize is that all these “catapult effect” rubbers are extremely non-linear and difficult to control without tons of coaching.
If you are a player who has taken hardly any lessons from coaches and is looking for a stable rubber that is easy to feel, this is the best choice for you. This rubber is not going to lie to you and it will give you the shot you give it. If your opponent blasts a rocket at you and you want to counter it aggressively, you can feel assured that this rubber isn’t going to launch the ball into oblivion.
This rubber gets a lot of harsh criticism for being slow, and it is indeed slower than the tensored junk that quickly puts people into a plateaued rating level. However, this is because the speed of the ball is solely dependent on the stroke you place on the ball. If you hit hard, it will go hard, and if you hit soft, it will go soft; period. You will climb the rating level with this rubber if you continue to use it, and you will learn how to finally feel the ball.
This rubber is not just for beginner and intermediate levels; I know many advanced players as well who use this rubber pretty offensively and know the secrets behind what this powerful rubber bestows. Mark V is the only rubber out there that has feelings for you and wants you to get better, so you should reciprocate Mark V’s generosity and give him a shot on your blade.
A really good rubber to learn table tennis with, making it easy to continue improving your skill! I use it on my backhand side, and with a lot of practice, reverse pendulum backhand is quite easy, especially with correct technique in the back-swing moment. It generates a great amount of spin! For passive blocking, it is just fine. The only thing it lacks is speed. If you are a speed-oriented player, you will likely prefer a rubber with a bigger catapult effect. Even though it is a classic rubber from the Stiga era, this rubber is still worth buying and playing with!
This rubber is suitable for intermediate players only. It offers a low throw angle, medium spin, and speed while providing excellent control. Its lightweight construction makes it a comfortable option.
However, advanced players may find this rubber lacking. Despite its affordability, it exhibits durability issues, appearing worn after 20 to 30 hours of play. Additionally, its spin capabilities diminish over time.
Intermediate players who are building their first customized racket and seeking an inexpensive rubber option may consider this product.
This rubber is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. It excels as an all-around performer, offering a medium balance in all aspects of play. It is recommended to use a thickness of 2.0mm or higher.
The combination of sponge and rubber provides excellent performance, enhancing rebound and trajectory, which is particularly beneficial with plastic balls. TableTennis11 offers the most competitive pricing and delivers within a week, even to WA state.
For a cpen (Chinese penhold) grip, I use this rubber on the forehand combined with Nittaku Hammond Pro B (which has more springiness) on the backhand. For a shakehand grip, this rubber can be used effectively on both sides.
For beginners unsure about which rubber to choose, this is an excellent option.
I started playing table tennis 3 months ago and bought this rubber as a beginner, learning equipment for an all-around style. I started to feel a bit slow quite early on, but it was really great to learn how to spin at the beginning.
I know that this rubber is widely used by recreational players who are rejoining this lovely sport, and I can also recommend this for newcomers. Not an offensive rubber, nothing fancy, but it does the job well with no question.
When I was struggling with my Rakza 9/7 2.0mm, Mark V 1.8mm came to my rescue on the Viscaria blade. I am truly amazed by the performance of this rubber. It allows for play in all gears. I do not miss my Rakzas while playing with Mark V.
It offers an unbelievable level of control and surprisingly good speed (8.6/10). This rubber excels at pushes and outstanding on-the-table and mid-distance play. (Added: Superb at looping both BH and FH… I fell in love with this rubber and I was never so good with any other costlier rubbers… only I miss the hard rubber feel on FH).
My idea is to play with it for some time, then move on to Rakzas again. Thanks for reading the review.
Best rubber for beginners. However, after you improve your style and technique, the spin and speed will not suffice.
Powerful in spinning attack, while control and speed were victorious a long time ago. But for today’s era, MARK V no longer can compete with the new breed of rubbers. They are not mighty anymore. Recommended for beginners only.
I used DHS Hurricane 3 Neo as a forehand rubber on my CPEN AVX P 900 blade. It is an awesome rubber. I love the loops, smashes, and even the touch play with it.
I may consider using Mark V rubber as a backhand rubber as well.
This is an awesome rubber. Every coach recommends this rubber for beginners to intermediate players although it is not a slow rubber, but it has a high spinning potential.
This old classic rubber is my favorite for its spin and control. Many players think that this is only for beginners, but if you are an intermediate offensive player, pair it with an OFF/OFF+ blade for extreme control and speed.
This rubber also compliments the defensive style. I will not say it is an all-around rubber, but more than that OFF-.
Based on a 2-hour session of training, I rate this:
Speed - 8.4
Spin - 8.7
Control - 9.4
I would recommend this rubber to anyone who wants unbelievable spin and speed but does not want to lose control or feeling.
First Rubbers
Yes! These should be your first rubbers if you are into the sport. They are less expensive, offer very good control, are durable, and provide decent speed. All shots are playable, although they lack the spin required in the modern game.
There was a time when it used to be amongst the “fast” rubbers. Now it just feels so slow with all the tensors lining up. Much slower than the slow tensors like Nimbus Soft.
But still a great rubber for learning table tennis. Highly highly recommended for beginners, recreational players, and early intermediate-level players.
It is a great rubber for those who need a fast but controllable rubber.
Hi, after reading several reviews, I decided to use Mark V rubber for FH and BH with Joola Carbon Blade. It’s awesome; you can play any shots far away from the table and close to the table. The spin is awesome, and topspin specifically has less chance of error. It has marvelous control, and shots go flat to the table. I used GKI Kung fu, then Donic waldner 900, and now I am using Mark V, which is the God of TT. I recommend this rubber to all starters who will improve their game rapidly and fast. If you are not placing the ball in the table, then it is your mistake, not the rubber’s mistake. I recommend this rubber to all basic to advanced players. The speed is too awesome if the shots are hit at the right angle.
This rubber is really good for forehand shots. It is not suitable for backhand play. The serves produced are too spinny, and the topspins are excellent. This rubber is highly recommended. However, it is not intended for beginners and is better suited for advanced players. The Yasaka Mark V is superior to the Stiga Sriver and all its variants.
I use the Mark V on a 729 Professional Wood L-2 blade for both the front and back rubber. The blade is rated as OFF-, and these rubbers are an excellent match.
With this combination, you can execute a wide range of shots effectively.
If you have specific strengths and weaknesses, such as specializing in loops but struggling with lobs, consider choosing rubbers that will enhance your strengths and compensate for your weaknesses.
However, if you are well-rounded and can play both offensively and defensively, this rubber is an ideal choice. I have been pleasantly surprised by how well it has helped me improve my game.
One important consideration is that this rubber performs best when paired with blades rated ALL+ or higher. In my experience, this combination provides optimal results.
If you want to block and have good control with spin and speed, this rubber could be a good choice. It allows for good blocking all day long.
I simply love this rubber. Ever since I bought this rubber, none of my shots have landed in the net or outside the table. Although not very fast, its speed is still good. The price is very reasonable. I use it on the backhand. Its control is absolutely amazing. The spin is also good. Most of the time I am able to deceive my opponents with my serves. I would totally recommend it for the backhand. My blade is the Joola Falcon Fast.
I just love this rubber! I use it on my BH on a Stiga Allround blade. It is really good for blocking, backspins, and for opening up on serves and serve returns. It is a very long-lasting rubber too and is perfectly suitable for me. Keep going, Yasaka!
Physical Properties
The Mk V rubber sheet, available in red, possesses a slightly tacky surface. The sponge hardness is neither particularly hard nor soft, falling within a medium-hard range. This firmness is complemented by a super-soft topsheet that reveals visible pips when observed through the top layer, creating a visually appealing effect.
Speed
Benefitting from its medium-hard sponge, the Yasaka Mk V offers a decent level of speed. While not as lightning-fast as certain rubbers in the Tenergy line, its speed remains satisfactory.
Spin
When employed for looping or topspinning, the Yasaka Mk V generates a respectable amount of spin. The resulting arc provides good depth and ensures shots clear the net. While its spin capabilities may fall short of some Chinese rubbers, they remain adequate for contemporary playing styles.
Control
Exceptional control is the hallmark of this rubber. Its versatility enables it to seamlessly execute various strokes, from loops to topspins. The control it provides is truly impressive.
Looping
The Yasaka Mk V performs adequately for looping, producing a decent amount of spin. However, it may not be the ideal rubber for players focused primarily on looping, as superior options are available in the market.
Flicks/Flips
One of the notable strengths of this rubber is its ability to effortlessly convert bottom spin into topspin using flicks or flips. These shots are executed with speed and precision.
Conclusion
Priced between 38-40 USD, the Yasaka Mk V is a solid rubber. While it may not fully meet the expectations of some advanced players, it is highly recommended for beginners seeking to improve their stroke mechanics and technique. For those who prioritize looping, pairing this rubber with a stiff blade is advisable. Despite its overall quality, it is important to note that there are more cost-effective options available on the market.
I first had this rubber on my 2nd blade–Galaxy T-11+. For some reason, it did not perform well and made the sweet spot seem smaller.
Then, when I got my 3rd blade, Bty Primorac Carbon, I switched Mark V onto the new blade. The slowness of this rubber somehow teamed up pretty well with the very fast characteristic (OFF+) of the blade on the backhand. It’s got a nice, soft feel that enhanced the dwell time and has pretty good grip that I could produce very good and powerful BH shots while facing down the blade quite a bit. Opponents thought I have a fast rubber but I told them it’s not the rubber but the blade and my technique.
It seems to be very durable as I have been using it for 2 months (3-4x/week) hitting very hard. Even though it is more expensive than DHS H3, it seems a lot more durable that the top sheet stays intact with the sponge unlike the H3, where it separated several times already, and I had to glue it back.
I highly recommend this rubber on an OFF+ stiff blade, but do not put it on a slow blade.
Yasaka Mark V is suitable for attacking all-rounders. It features a soft sponge, making it a good choice for players who prefer a responsive and forgiving feel. Additionally, it offers excellent durability, ensuring that it can withstand extended use without losing its performance.
I love this rubber. It’s very consistent. For every person I know that’s getting into the sport, I always recommend the Mark V. It’s also good for an experienced player that wants a long-lasting and very controllable rubber. Bottom line, it’s the best rubber for all around.
This rubber is exceptional, boasting remarkable speed, spin, and control. It performs optimally on an Off++ blade. Its weight and sponge hardness are perfectly balanced, and the top-sheet exudes quality. The rubber is versatile, suitable for both forehand and backhand play or even both.
Players of varying skill levels can execute a wide range of shots with exceptional control. Intermediate and advanced players will unlock the rubber’s full potential, while serious beginners can also benefit from its capabilities.
Serves are highly effective, generating substantial spin, and the short game is exceptional.
Separately, I highly recommend Yasaka Mark V for the backhand in 2mm sponge. Among the Mark V range, it stands out as the superior choice for players seeking to elevate their game.
I put this rubber on my backhand and I feel that it is slower than I expected. Even though I use a fast blade, when I try to do a backhand loop, it feels slow.
This rubber is a little slow.
When I was younger, I played with a Butterfly Power Drive/Mark V combination. This set-up enabled me to win several tournaments in the early 1990s. After a 23-year layoff, I picked the sport back up again and joined a league. When choosing a new blade/rubber combination, I was overwhelmed by new technologies such as carbon blades, tensor rubbers, etc.
I began by purchasing a hard carbon blade (Xiom Stradivarius) with fast rubber (Yasaka Rakza 7 Soft). However, this combination was too fast for defensive strokes such as chops. So, I decided to switch to a slower and more controllable rubber (Xiom Vega Europe). This change in rubber improved my game, allowing me to loop and block more confidently. Yet, I still desired more control without sacrificing speed.
Next, I decided to experiment with an all-wood blade to replicate the playing ability of my old Power Drive. I switched to a Nittaku Septear/Vega Europe combo and found my playing ability improving quickly. However, I lacked confidence in my shots when playing against specific styles.
After much consideration, I purchased a Nittaku Kasumi Basic/Yasaka Mark V combination and was blown away. This set-up allowed me to play all my shots with ease, enabling me to defeat many players in my league who were previously giving me problems. This combination provided excellent speed with precise control, truly impressing me.
This shows that a “classic” rubber from decades ago along with a simple 5-ply wood blade can be just as formidable as newer technologies. As a result, I see no reason to use anything else. This rubber is unbeatable when it comes to gears and its ability to play any kind of shot with consistency.
Mark V is suitable for a fast offensive blade to reduce speed and enhance control. Conversely, it can also be used with a slower all-around blade, providing good speed and even better control. I highly recommend Mark V for all levels of play, from beginner to advanced.
Compared to modern rubbers, Mark V is slower and has a less efficient sponge. However, it offers excellent control, albeit with a slightly bouncy feel. The rubber provides good dwell time and decent spin, allowing players to create slow, spinny balls that can disrupt opponents. This is an ideal rubber for players transitioning from premade bats, as it offers feedback that facilitates technical development. For the affordable price of around $25, Mark V stands as a superior option to Chinese rubbers, which often suffer from inconsistent quality control. In a direct comparison with Sriver, Mark V exhibits a superior feel, lacking the plastic sensation of its counterpart.
The best classic rubber is very durable and can be used by all types of players. It performs well on any blade.
The true all-round inverted rubber, even in 2014.
It is more efficient than VariSpin in offensive play, just as efficient in short game and defensive shots. Awesome.
The best backhand rubber for me is the red one. It’s good for backhand defensive type, but in my opinion, it’s only good for backhand because it’s slow rubber. It’s not suitable for forehand.
I am eager to pair this rubber on the FH of my Darker Hinoki DF blade based on reviews from other players. I anticipate that the all-around nature of this choice will enhance the versatility of my FH to the level I desire.
I put Mark V 1.8 mm for my forehand on my Andro Super Core Cell Carbon OFF blade. I must say it’s really awesome rubber. While my blade is quite fast, the Mark V rubber is slow and provides good control, which makes this combination ideal for me.
I am playing in competition and this setup has helped me win more easily. Before Mark V, I used Andro Hexer HD 2.1 mm on my forehand but this setup was too fast for me. I couldn’t control the ball well when doing forehand loop. However, when I replaced Hexer HD with Mark V, I gained better control for my forehand loop and even smash. I really enjoy Mark V for my forehand.
I am still using Hexer HD 1.9 mm for my backhand, but I am considering replacing it with Butterfly Sriver EL to gain more control.
This rubber is simply perfect. It is slower than the Chinese tensors I have tried, but the feeling is way better!
This is my first rubber. The first time I learned table tennis, I used Tenergy 05. In my opinion, this rubber is similar to Tenergy 05 if using speed glue. It has a balanced speed and spin.
Fast, spinny, and very controllable, the Mark V rubber provides exceptional performance. Topspins remain consistent and low to the table, generating an abundance of spin. The rubber’s precise control allows players to execute shots with accuracy and place them anywhere on the playing surface.
As a beginner with proper fundamentals, this rubber has significantly improved my game. It enables me to loop, chop, push, block, and serve effectively. When I execute these techniques correctly, opponents below the 1200 rating level struggle to return my shots.
However, against more advanced players, the rubber’s speed proves insufficient to prevent them from returning the ball unless they make significant errors. Additionally, the rubber’s softness poses challenges when facing low-energy balls. I initially used a thickness of 1.5 mm, but am now transitioning to 2.0 mm. I will provide further feedback after a month or two of使用.
When you feel like you are not a beginner anymore, it is time to buy Mark V. When you start to feel like a competitive player, it is time to say goodbye to Mark V. Everything in between is the Mark V domain. This rubber will teach you how to play. It has great control, satisfactory spin and speed. It can do all the shots pretty well. At the same time, it does not excel at anything.
Unfortunately, the price is too much for such an old rubber. You can buy similar Chinese rubber for 3 or 4 times less money.
Pozdrav svima koji ovo razumiju.
Played with Mark V only using speed glue, and this rubber can do it all. Not sure why it’s rated here so low. It has plenty of gears, is fast when you need it, and is accurate on the touch shots, always predictable with no issues to control it.
Excellent all-around rubber, which can be matched with any blades. And if you put different sponge thicknesses into the mix, it can be used by any playing style.
This is the UNIVERSAL rubber. It’s suitable for both beginners and advanced players. Every SHOT is aimed for perfection.
Awesome rubber with a medium-low throw angle and medium hardness. Suitable for all playing styles, particularly effective for countering on both forehand and backhand. Recommended to be paired with a hard blade for players prioritizing speed over spin.
I recently introduced this rubber to my 9-year-old nephew. He’s used to 729 rubbers on his Galaxy Cn Carbon.
I immediately noticed a difference. His topspins have become more consistent. He can also do sidespins more easily.
In my earlier years, I was more of a fan of Butterfly’s Tackiness. Never really became a Mark V user for some reason. But, now I’m happy to see that it works for my nephew.
Now, he wants Mark V for his backhand, too. He’ll be playing for his first-ever local tournament in a few weeks time. He will have some time to get used to this great rubber.
Nice rubber.
A decent rubber, but overpriced. Don’t spend $40 on this all-around rubber when you can spend $10 on brands like 729 which offer better performance for a quarter of the cost.
A simple rubber will always remain a legendary rubber. I have always wanted to try out Yasaka Mark V for a long time because people all around said that this was an extraordinary rubber. I got my chance to finally use it on both sides of a racket from a friend of mine. The blade was light and custom-made, but when I laid my hands on the racket itself, it had a magic touch. It commands its own spin and is best in generating sidespin. Looping is perfect, especially for beginners who have used it. It was a smooth feeling when I made topspin/drives. This rubber is so extraordinary that it is the perfect all-around rubber. It is a recommended rubber for all types of players who want to generate spins all the time.
This is my first rubber and I am very happy with it. When I first bought it, it was a bit hard. However, after about 2 weeks, it became softer.
It is an awesome beginner rubber because it offers very good control. It can produce good spinny serves. However, it lacks speed. You can train with it to develop your consistency.
I sometimes feel uncomfortable when I do loops because you have to make the ball dig into the sponge for it to produce a lot of spin.
Overall, it is a beginner rubber but it can also be used by an experienced player due to its spin and control.
Hope this helps :))
Simply one of the best, especially for learners. You learn about feel with this rubber. At some point, this rubber makes you think about different shots and angles because you feel you can do them. It is great for training in offensive techniques.
Like everyone says, it has a great combination of speed, spin and control. However, what I remember most is the feeling when serving and looping.
It is true that the 44mm world has advanced technology into the speed-glued-included and tensor rubbers, and made this rubber seem less exceptional; but if I could go in the past, I would give myself a Mark V to start training with :).
Fantastic!
This table tennis rubber provides the perfect combination of speed, spin, and control. It adapts to your playing style, allowing you to execute shots with precision and finesse.
Traditional C-Pen Player:
This was my first serious rubber on a shakehand that I ever owned. I am amazed at the durability of this rubber. It still performs after years. If you want an all-around rubber that does a little bit of everything and will last a long time, this is for you. The price is fairly competitive at $31, particularly for the longevity. You will like this rubber.
However, with several options in the $14 price range (see zeropong), I think you can find something comparable for a cheaper price.
This rubber is still simple to use but has many gears and is easy to play. It offers good control and is considered one of the top ten rubbers of all time. Notably, it is not as expensive as other rubbers in its class.
Control with Mark V is exceptional, and for an attacking all-rounder like me, it can generate a lot of self-confidence. I’m top spinning off both wings much better and consistently than ever before, and much of this improvement can be attributed to the quality of the rubber allied to better technique. The spin capabilities are not exceptional, especially when serving, but they are usually enough for my local league standard ability. My game has benefited a lot since I began using Mark V, and I doubt if I will ever change my choice of rubber except for another of the MV range of rubbers.
Good rubber. This rubber is useful for getting to know your blade when you play with it for the first time. However, I feel the Sriver series is somewhat better in performance.
This rubber is not meant for professionals.
I use Phantom 009 with Mark 5. I know it’s an odd combination, but it’s working like anything. Mark 5, by no means, is a non-offensive rubber.
This is a classic that was born more than 20 years ago. It used to be a “menace” to the opponent, especially when combined with Sriver. A true warrior!
So, what killed Mark V? In my opinion, it is the 40 mm ball that lost the speed and the spin, and rendered Mark V as an “average” rubber.
The rubber is still fantastic, very forgiving (allows you to miss-time the ball, and it will still go right, to some extent), very spinny, very controllable, decently fast (when paired with carbon plies), and so, so, so durable (I have played with a Mark V that is 10 years old, and cleaned after every game, and trust me, it retains the control, speed, and spin till date).
A legend among rubbers, and a very, very good rubber for any intermediate player. I still love it on my Donic Waldner Senso Carbon in the FH as it still gives me the comfort in topspin, side-spin, loop, push, and drives!
A “do it all” kind of a rubber with decent speed, spin, control, and fantastic durability!
A very standard and old rubber, best for all-around attack play.
I’ve recently been using my dad’s old paddle with Mark V on both sides. After 16 years, it still plays great. The rubber has not been changed for 16 years.
It has good speed without being too fast. It also has pretty decent spin, but nothing crazy. I use it more as a driving rubber than a looping rubber.
Surprisingly, it also has a lot of control.
I just got this rubber for my forehand and backhand. My push shots suddenly got faster, and I have great control as well. It’s faster than the DHS PF4 that I used to have.
This classic rubber is long-lasting, consistent, and well-balanced. Initially, I found it too slow but after using it on my forehand for a few weeks, it proved to be powerful and more consistent on smashes and power drives than modern rubbers with soft sponges.
I used the Mark V, 1.8 mm when I started playing on my backhand. It’s a fine all-around rubber, although it was a little slow on my all-around blade. It has great control, making it suitable for close-to-the-table play.
I then put the Mark V 2 mm on my Off ++ bat, where it exhibited good control and speed.
Review text:
Easy to loop, block, and chop. Serves are decent. Control during rallies is good. Smashing and flips are also decent. Speed is reasonable. It is a great all-rounder and easy to adapt to.
I tend to agree with Anonymous (April 30 2011).
On a soft blade like mine (Stiga OC), I found the YMV to be an unexciting rubber. It is merely OK. I stuck with it for a whole season because I had paid good money for it and because it didn’t really mess up my (developing) backhand. However, I thought I had been misled by the excellent reviews here, which I now think are mostly echoes of past glory.
The ratings for spin and speed should not be much higher than 6 by today’s standards. Control is subjective. The rubber does nothing wrong, but it doesn’t really do much either. That’s why I think the price is too high for what is essentially a very unremarkable rubber.
I don’t know why everyone gushes over this relic. I played with it years ago when it was the best around and loved it. I tried it again recently and was disappointed.
By today’s standards, it’s decent but not exceptional. There are plenty of rubbers that outperform it at half the price. Gambler Wraith and Gambler Outlaw are two examples. Both are faster, can produce more spin, and have the same level of control and touch. Both are less than half the price.
Mark V had its day, and that day is long gone. It should be priced right around $10.
I have used Yasaka Mark V on a Joneyr H-AN Blade. It performs very well in both speed and spin.
I haven’t been using it for a long time, but it has only been a year and a half.
It’s the best rubber and blade I’ve ever used.
This rubber is outstanding! I used a 2.2 mm Mark 5, which is very good for semi-pros or higher. However, it is not suitable for beginners. I think this is one of the best classical rubbers out there.
Started playing with this rubber since joining a league 5 years ago, and it has helped me improve my game by a lot. I do not have much to compare this rubber to yet, but I would definitely suggest it to anyone. I have a new paddle with different rubbers on the way in the mail (only because I want to branch out and try something new). I have an all-round /offensive style game, and it suits me well.
I use black Mark V and Joola Express 1. It’s an awesome combination with the blade-Donic Waldner Persson exclusive.
I used this rubber for a month, and I must say that this rubber is fantastic! The offensive plays are very good, and even though the defensive play is still average, I could chop behind the table very well with it.
These rubbers are excellent for offensive playstyles. However, their defensive capabilities are not as strong.
In terms of durability, these rubbers have a lifespan of approximately 6 months when played 3 times per week.
I used to use MKV when I played for the UK in the mid-80s. I just started playing again using MKV with a Donic blade, but I think the sponge is too thick, as I find it too slow. Control and spin are great, though. I think I’m only using 1.5mm, so I need to change to at least 2-2.2mm.
Mark V Rubber Review
Mark V rubber has moderate speed but generates excellent spin. The controllability varies depending on the blade it is paired with. Combining Mark V with a carbon blade can strike a balance between the blade’s speed and the rubber’s spin.
During gameplay, players can distinctly perceive the friction generated by the rubber’s surface.
Very nice for spin and control. The rubber is quite tacky, allowing for better control and spin.
It lasts very long and gives the same feel and response until the rubber is completely worn out. Extremely versatile and durable rubber.
This rubber is incredibly versatile and can excel in a variety of playing styles.
Such a great rubber for all the right reasons. It excels at nothing but it can do anything. As people have said better than I can, what I love about this rubber is its ability to temper a “fast” or “offensive” blade to something much more controllable without sacrifice.
So far, I have used Sriver Fx, Sriver EL, and Mark V on my Jonyer-H blade. Mark V is the best among all these. It has great speed, great spin, and control. Overall, it’s the best all-around rubber. The most important thing is that I play where there is always a huge amount of dust, and Mark V is ideal for such conditions. Its durability is awesome. Both the Srivers are almost dead, but Mark V is still playing true.
I am a 1834-rated player. I previously used Sriver EL and G2FX on a VSG blade. However, I recently tried this Mark V (2.0) on a Gatien extra blade.
I found that this new setup provides great control without compromising speed and spin at my level. Overall, I am very pleased with the results and would highly recommend this setup to players of my skill level.
Mark V is an excellent rubber for attacking players seeking speed and spin. It performs well in thinner sponges (1.5mm or less) for defensive players who prefer counterattacking with power and spin. I’ve used Mark V since the late seventies, and it remains a great rubber—a true classic.
This rubber performs as advertised. While it allows for proficiency in various aspects of the game, no particular feature excels. It serves as an excellent starting point for beginners, providing a benchmark to assess their skill level. Players can seamlessly transition to rubbers offering increased spin, speed, or pips as their skills progress. Notably, the durability of Mark V is exceptional, suggesting extended longevity.
I had this rubber on my Butterfly Primorac Carbon, played with Carbo and Yasaka Mark V on the backhand. The Yasaka feels good and has good control.
I had Sriver on one side and Mark V on the other. I gotta say I like Sriver a tad better because I like forehand or backhand. I only like Mark V for forehand.
This rubber provides very good spin, and is also very durable.
Along with BTY Sriver Mark V is a world best-seller. It excels in pushing, looping, serves, and service returns. Mark V has a distinct feel compared to Sriver. It provides a higher throw angle and superior spin. However, Mark V may lose some control in counter looping or hitting away from the table, unlike Sriver.
Yasaka Mark V (Fast)
This is a classic rubber from Yasaka. It’s designed for fast and close-to-table play.
This rubber is fantastic for all-around or conservative offensive play. I found that it’s also fantastic for playing defense. It has great gears and control.
However, it isn’t for the player who is all-out offense or is a heavy looper.
My substitution for Butterfly Sriver.
It’s cheaper than Sriver. It feels pretty much the same as Sriver to me. Speed, spin, feel = to Sriver. If speed glue isn’t banned, this rubber will be amazing with speed glue.
Yasaka Mark V Rubber Review
This exceptional rubber is among the most widely recognized, comparable to the renowned Butterfly Sriver. While not boasting exceptional speed or spin, it captivates players with its outstanding control.
After extensive use on the Yasaka Gatien Extra and Butterfly Boll TriCarbon blades, for both forehand and backhand, I have concluded that the Mark V is an extraordinarily forgiving rubber. Its consistent performance grants exceptional control, making it an ideal choice for the Allround Attacker.
Its forgiving nature enables consistent returns against opponents’ shots, even with a high-speed blade like the Butterfly Boll TriCarbon. Despite its moderate speed and spin, the Mark V excels in its exceptional control.
Numerous players and time have proven its quality. Countless reviews attest to its superior qualities, and I confidently assert that they will concur: the Yasaka Mark V is an exceptional rubber.
Updated Review
After further use, I have additional insights into the Mark V’s capabilities. This versatile rubber excels in all aspects of table tennis shots. While it may not excel in any particular stroke, its excellent control ensures that chops, loops, blocks, and counter-drives are performed with equal ease.
Despite its inexpensive price, it is a remarkable choice for players of all levels. Its popularity, second only to Butterfly Sriver, is well-deserved. I strongly believe it warrants a higher ranking and is now my personal favorite.
Does anything more need to be said? It’s one of the two most successful rubbers ever (along with the Sriver).
Let me put this quite simply: my coach had the same rubber from the early 80s until he dropped a table on it (long story) in 2003. It hasn’t changed since it started and it’s still the benchmark for all offensive rubbers.
The rubber possesses a soft topsheet on top of a medium sponge. It bears similarities to Sriver, although it provides increased spin and speed.
I tried this rubber in the 1980s and it was awesome. I tried it again a few months ago and it was still awesome. This rubber is versatile, offering a bit more speed and spin than its Butterfly counterpart, Sriver. It’s an excellent choice for controlled or offensive playstyles and has proven to stand the test of time.
This rubber is a true classic. Overall, it feels softer than Sriver because it has a butter-soft top sheet. It is similar to Sriver, but the top sheet is slightly spinnier and more elastic, while the sponge is harder.
Not much needs to be said about this classic from over 20 years ago. This is a fine do-it-all rubber, capable of performing loops, counter drives, chops, and serves effectively. However, it may be slightly soft for powerful smashes.
The rubber offers a long dwell time and a muffled contact sound at all speeds. It complements harder blades (Off) well and exhibits a linear response, providing consistent control and feedback.
Review:
This high-quality rubber is ideal for professional and semi-professional players. However, it is not recommended for beginners. It features a traditional Japanese finish. When adhered to a carbon blade, it produces a distinctive metallic resonance. It is a versatile rubber suitable for a wide range of techniques, including looping, smashing, chopping, and playing near the table or at mid-distance. It ranks among the finest rubbers I have utilized.
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