Yasaka Ma Lin Carbon – A Versatile 5+2 Offensive Table Tennis Blade Designed with the Legendary Ma Lin
Yasaka Ma Lin Carbon is a versatile 5+2 ply offensive table tennis blade developed in collaboration with the legendary player Ma Lin. Weighing around 86 g and about 5.5 mm thick, it features CFNW (Carbon Fleece Non-Woven) carbon fiber layers placed closer to the core, offering a balanced combination of speed, power, and control. Made in Sweden and approved by the ITTF, this blade suits both looping attackers and all-round players seeking stability and precision.
Key Features:
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Blade type: ALL+ to OFF
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Material: 5 wood plies (limba, ayous) + 2 CFNW layers
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Weight: ~86 g
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Thickness: ~5.5 mm
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Speed: 86/100 (~9/10)
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Control: 73/100 (~7.5/10)
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Head size: 157 x 150 mm
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Handle types: FL (flared), ST (straight), AN (anatomic), CHN (Chinese penhold)
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Approval: ITTF approved
The Ma Lin Carbon consists of 5 wood plies (limba outer, ayous inner layers, and core) and 2 CFNW layers placed closer to the core (Innerfiber construction). This design reduces vibration, increases ball contact time, and provides a “natural” feel, unlike outer carbon blades like the Butterfly Zhang Jike Super ZLC. Its 5.5 mm thickness and 86 g weight ensure lightness and maneuverability, while the 157 x 150 mm head size (standard) offers a generous sweet spot. The speed rating (86/100) and control rating (73/100) indicate medium-high speed with somewhat limited control, making it ideal for ALL+ to OFF playing styles. ITTF approval allows it for tournament use.
Ma Lin Carbon is optimized for controlled offense: speed – 86/100 (~9/10), control – 73/100 (~7.5/10). Rated between ALL+ and OFF, it provides sufficient speed for topspins, drives, and counterattacks. The long ball contact time—enabled by the limba surface and Innerfiber build—allows for strong spin generation (9/10 for looping), especially with rubbers like Rakza Z or Tenergy 05. While control is moderate (7.5/10), the blade demands proper technique, particularly for blocking and short play. Compared to the Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLC (speed 9.25/10, control 7.5/10), the Ma Lin Carbon is slower but has a similarly good “ball-holding” feel. Compared to the Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC (speed 9.25/10, control 9/10), it's lighter and less controlled, but also more affordable.
The 5+2 ply blade with CFNW layers near the core provides medium flexibility and smooth energy transfer. Its 5.5 mm thickness makes it thinner than the Fan Zhendong ALC (5.8 mm), and its 86 g average weight (ranging from 81–89 g) is lighter than the Zhang Jike Super ZLC (90 g). The blade has a medium vibration level, which aids spin generation but may interfere with blocking. The large sweet spot enhances accuracy, while the limba outer ply gives a "woody" feel for soft shots. It pairs well with Rakza X (for speed) or Rakza Z (for spin), as well as Donic Bluefire JP01 or Xiom Omega VII Pro. Users note that it is "forgiving" and suitable for players transitioning from all-wood blades but requires a full swing for maximum speed.
Ma Lin Carbon offers three handle options: flared (FL), straight (ST), and anatomic (AN), as well as a Chinese penhold (CHN). While exact dimensions are not specified, FL and AN are wider, ST is slimmer, and CHN is shorter—suited for RPB players. The handles are made in Sweden, but some users report rough edges or fragile side wood, so a protective edge tape is recommended. Its center of gravity is neutral, making transitions between forehand and backhand easier. Users praise the lightness and speed of the CHN handle.
Ma Lin Carbon suits all-round offensive players who emphasize topspin, blocking, and controlled attacks. It's ideal for intermediate players transitioning from wooden blades like the Yasaka Sweden Extra or for beginners wanting to try a carbon feel. Due to its long ball contact time, it excels in looping and close-to-table play but is also suitable at mid-distance. Compared to the Donic Waldner Senso Carbon, it offers a similar ALL+/OFF style at a lower price (~$60 vs. ~$80). It's less suitable for pure power hitters than something like the Butterfly Timo Boll ALC, due to its lower speed and hardness. Users describe it as an “underrated” blade with excellent value.
Ma Lin Carbon stands out as an affordable carbon blade offering speed (86/100), spin (9/10), and decent control (73/100). The Innerfiber CFNW layers and limba outer ply provide a “woody” feel and a large sweet spot, while Swedish craftsmanship ensures quality. Compared to the Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLC, it's cheaper but with slightly less control. ITTF approval and Ma Lin’s legacy make it an attractive choice. Users praise its versatility but note its vibrations and fragility.
Ma Lin Carbon is ITTF approved and suitable for competition at all levels. Its speed and spin potential help dominate rallies, especially in looping and blocking. The large sweet spot aids in accuracy, though vibration may hinder blocking. It's best for players focused on technique and spin.
Yasaka Ma Lin Carbon – An affordable offensive blade combining speed, spin, and control. With 5+2 plies, CFNW layers, a large sweet spot, and Swedish quality, it delivers performance. A perfect choice for all-round players aiming for the Ma Lin style. Ma Lin Carbon – power, precision, and great value!