Zhang Jike’s Signature Blade at the ALC Price Point

The Butterfly Zhang Jike ALC delivers the same Arylate-Carbon construction found in the Viscaria and Timo Boll ALC: 7 plies with 5 wood and 2 ALC layers, rated 9.0/10 speed and 7.5/10 control. At $185, it matches the Viscaria’s price point while offering a distinct handle design based on Zhang Jike’s playing preferences.

The handle difference matters more than most players expect. Zhang Jike’s version features a slightly thicker flared handle compared to the Viscaria, which affects wrist flexibility on serves and receive. Players with larger hands often report a more secure grip with the ZJ handle. The blade weighs 87g, 2g heavier than the Viscaria, concentrated primarily in the handle area.

On the table, the Zhang Jike ALC and Viscaria produce functionally identical ball behavior. Both generate a direct, linear trajectory on loops with the crisp feedback characteristic of outer-placed Arylate-Carbon. Advanced players switching between these two blades typically adjust within a single practice session. The choice between them comes down to handle comfort and brand preference rather than performance specifications.

How the Zhang Jike ALC Fits the Blade Lineup

Butterfly builds the Zhang Jike series across four fiber technologies, and the ALC sits at the entry point. Above it, the Zhang Jike ZLC ($270) replaces Arylate-Carbon with ZL-Carbon for 9.5/10 speed and a lighter, more flexible feel. The Zhang Jike Super ZLC ($400) pushes speed further with Super ZL-Carbon fiber. The Zhang Jike T5000 ($300) uses traditional TAMCA 5000 carbon for maximum stiffness and 10.0/10 speed.

For players entering the advanced blade category, the Zhang Jike ALC at $185 represents the balanced starting point. It pairs naturally with Tenergy 05 or Dignics 09C on the forehand, producing heavy topspin without the wild speed that ZLC and Super ZLC blades introduce. Players who later want more power can move up the ZJ line without needing to relearn blade dimensions, since all four share the same head size and handle profile.