Butterfly Glayzer vs. Rozena Comparison Test Review

Battle of Butterfly's Budget Options

When it comes to table tennis rubbers, intermediate players often seek a balance between control and speed. While rubbers like the Butterfly Tenergy 05 or Dignics 09C offer exceptional speed, the Butterfly Glayzer and Rozena provide slower alternatives. Additionally, many players look for more affordable options from Butterfly. In this article, we will compare the Glayzer and Rozena rubbers, highlighting their similarities and differences to help players make an informed decision.

The Butterfly Rozena was introduced first, while the Glayzer is a new addition to Butterfly's rubber lineup in 2023. One notable difference between these two rubbers is their sponge hardness. The Rozena features a softer sponge rated at 35° JPN, while the Glayzer has a slightly firmer sponge rated at 38° JPN. This roughly translates to 48-49° on the ESN (European Standard Number) scale for the Rozena and 50-51° ESN for the Glayzer. The sponge colors of these rubbers also stand out, with the Rozena having a pink sponge and the Glayzer featuring a unique grey sponge, colors that have not been used in other Butterfly rubbers before. Looking at our sheets we were testing, Rozena came in at 64g uncut while Glayzer did weight 66g uncut, so almost the same for both at 1.9 mm sponge thickness.

Spin, Speed, and Control

When it comes to spin, both the Glayzer and Rozena offer excellent performance in our test. The tacky topsheet on both rubbers enables players to generate substantial spin on their shots. However, due to its firmer sponge, the Glayzer provides a bit more speed than the Rozena. This makes the Glayzer better suited for players who prefer a slightly faster game, while the Rozena caters to those who prioritize control.

In terms of ball trajectory, the Glayzer tends to produce a flatter trajectory compared to the Rozena. This characteristic makes it suitable for players who rely on topspin drives and aggressive shots. On the other hand, the Rozena's softer sponge helps to lift the ball more easily, making it an excellent choice for players who frequently encounter underspin balls and need to lift them over the net.

Topsheet Differences

The topsheets of the Glayzer and Rozena also exhibit some variations. The Glayzer's topsheet is slightly harder, allowing for a crisper feel and enhanced precision during shots. This makes it more suitable for players who prioritize a solid and direct impact on the ball. The Rozena, with its slightly softer topsheet, provides a more forgiving feel and better dwell time. This characteristic makes it easier to generate spin and control the ball, particularly for players still refining their technique.

Playing Styles

When it comes to specific playing styles, the Glayzer excels in topspeed loops, making it a preferred choice for players who rely on aggressive attacking shots from mid-distance. Its firmer sponge and enhanced speed enable powerful shots with great topspin. In comparison, the Glayzer is also effective in blocking, thanks to its ability to redirect the opponent's speed and spin effectively.

On the other hand, the Rozena shines in our review in topspin rallies, particularly against backspin balls. The softer sponge helps the player lift the ball more easily, allowing for consistent topspin shots. Additionally, the Rozena's enhanced control and dwell time make it ideal for pushing and short game tactics.

Recommendation

Choosing between the Butterfly Glayzer and Rozena largely depends on your playing style and preferences. Here's a recommendation based on different player types:

Aggressive Attacker: If you are an aggressive player who focuses on powerful shots and topspeed loops, the Butterfly Glayzer is a better choice for you. Its firmer sponge and increased speed provide the necessary power and spin to dominate offensive rallies.

Control-Oriented Player: For players who prioritize control and precision, the Butterfly Rozena is an excellent option. Its softer sponge and forgiving topsheet allow for better ball control, making it easier to execute precise shots and maintain consistency.

All-Round Player: If you prefer a balanced playing style, combining both offensive and defensive techniques, either rubber can work well for you. Consider your personal preferences for speed and control to decide whether you lean more towards the Glayzer's speed or the Rozena's control.

Developing Player: If you are still developing your skills and technique, the Butterfly Rozena is a recommended choice. Its softer sponge and forgiving topsheet can assist in refining your shots and improving consistency as you progress.

It's important to note that these recommendations serve as general guidelines, and individual preferences may vary. It is advisable to try out both rubbers before making a final decision, as personal feel and playstyle play significant roles in rubber selection.

Recommended Blades for Glayzer and Rozena

When it comes to selecting the right blade to pair with the Butterfly Glayzer and Rozena rubbers, several options stand out. Here are some recommended blades, each offering unique characteristics:

Butterfly Innerforce ALC:

The Butterfly Innerforce ALC is an excellent choice for players seeking a balance between speed and control. With its Arylate Carbon (ALC) composition, this blade provides a soft and controlled feel while offering a moderate increase in speed. It offers good dwell time and precise ball placement, making it a suitable match for the Glayzer and Rozena rubbers.

Butterfly Harimoto ALC:

Similar to the Innerforce ALC, the Butterfly Harimoto ALC features an Arylate Carbon (ALC) construction, providing a good combination of control and speed. The Harimoto ALC blade has a slightly larger size compared to the Innerforce ALC and features distinct branding. It offers a comfortable grip, excellent ball feedback, and works well with the Glayzer and Rozena rubbers.

Yasaka Ma Lin Carbon:

The Yasaka Ma Lin Carbon blade is a carbon-infused option that delivers increased power and speed. It offers a stiffer feel and greater trajectory for offensive play. The Ma Lin Carbon blade enhances the speed potential of the Glayzer rubber, allowing players to unleash powerful shots while maintaining good control. The Rozena rubber can benefit from the blade's power and provide a well-rounded game.

Yasaka Sweden Extra:

The Yasaka Sweden Extra blade is a non-carbon blade, providing a softer and more controlled playing experience. It offers excellent touch and feel, making it suitable for players who prioritize control and precision. The Sweden Extra blade works well with both the Glayzer and Rozena rubbers, complementing their characteristics and allowing for greater control over shots and spin.

Ultimately, the choice of blade depends on your playing style, preferences, and desired balance between speed and control. Whether you opt for the Innerforce ALC, Harimoto ALC, Ma Lin Carbon, or Sweden Extra, each blade offers its own unique characteristics that can enhance the performance of the Glayzer and Rozena rubbers.

Conclusion

Based on our comparison, the Butterfly Glayzer and Rozena are both solid table tennis rubbers that cater to the needs of intermediate players seeking a balance between control and speed. While the Glayzer offers slightly more speed with its firmer sponge, the Rozena provides enhanced control and a softer sponge.

The Glayzer excels in topspeed loops and is suitable for aggressive attackers looking for powerful shots. Its firmer sponge and increased speed allow for aggressive offensive play. On the other hand, the Rozena shines in topspin rallies, especially against backspin balls. Its softer sponge aids in lifting the ball, and the rubber's enhanced control is advantageous in pushing and short game tactics.

Ultimately, the choice between the Glayzer and Rozena depends on your playing style, preferences, and skill level. It is recommended to try out both rubbers and consider their individual characteristics to determine which one best suits your game. Remember, personal feel and playstyle play a significant role in rubber selection.

Whichever rubber you choose, both the Butterfly Glayzer and Rozena offer exceptional quality and performance, ensuring an enjoyable and competitive table tennis experience. So go ahead, test their unique attributes, and unleash your skills on the table!