Spin Testers
Butterfly Tenergy 05 vs DHS Hurricane 3 Test
The world of table tennis rubbers is constantly evolving, with different players and styles demanding specific performance characteristics. In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift towards hard and tacky rubbers, particularly those from China, as players seek to maximize their spin and power in the game. One such popular option is the DHS Hurricane 3, known for its hard and sticky topsheet that provides exceptional spin and speed. On the other hand, the Butterfly Tenergy 05, a flagship rubber from the renowned Japanese brand, is known for its springy sponge and versatile performance. In this article, we will delve into the increasing popularity of hard and tacky rubbers versus European springy rubbers and compare Butterfly Tenergy 05 with DHS Hurricane 3 in terms of their rubber types, performance characteristics, player skills required, and recommendations for player types and experience levels.
Comparison: Tenergy 05 / Hurricane 3
One of the key differences between the Butterfly Tenergy 05 and the DHS Hurricane 3 lies in the type of rubbers used in China versus Europe. The DHS Hurricane 3 is a representative of the Chinese-style rubber, which is generally harder and stickier compared to the European-style rubber, like the Butterfly Tenergy 05. Chinese players typically prefer harder rubbers with a tacky surface to generate more spin and control, while European players tend to favor slightly softer rubbers for a more well-rounded and versatile playing style.
Hard and sticky rubbers have gained popularity in recent years due to the advantages they offer in terms of power and spin. The hardness of the rubber allows players to generate more power in their shots, particularly in offensive plays, while the tackiness enhances grip on the ball, resulting in increased spin. This combination of power and spin can be particularly effective in aggressive playing styles, allowing players to exert more control over the ball and dictate the pace of the game.
Difference in playing characteristics
The characteristics of the sponge and topsheet are critical factors to consider when comparing the Butterfly Tenergy 05 and the DHS Hurricane 3. The sponge is the layer underneath the topsheet and determines the rubber's hardness and elasticity, while the topsheet is the outermost layer in contact with the ball and affects the rubber's tackiness and grip.
The Butterfly Tenergy 05 features a softer sponge with a springy and dynamic feel, allowing for a higher trajectory and more dwell time on the ball. This makes it an excellent choice for players who rely on a spin-oriented playing style, as it allows for precise and controlled shots with a high level of spin. The topsheet of the Butterfly Tenergy 05 is also grippy, but not as tacky as the DHS Hurricane 3, allowing for a more well-rounded and versatile playing experience.
On the other hand, the DHS Hurricane 3 has a harder sponge with a denser and more compact structure (see animated clip below), resulting in a lower trajectory and shorter dwell time. This makes it ideal for players who prefer a flatter and faster playing style, as it generates powerful shots with minimal arc. The topsheet of the DHS Hurricane 3 is highly tacky, allowing for maximum spin generation and control, particularly in close-to-the-table play and aggressive looping shots.
Best choice for your playing style
Mastering the Butterfly Tenergy 05 and the DHS Hurricane 3 requires different skill sets from the player. The Butterfly Tenergy 05 requires good technique and timing to fully utilize its spin-oriented capabilities, as its softer sponge and grippy topsheet demand precise control over the ball. On the other hand, the DHS Hurricane 3 requires a more aggressive playing style, with fast and powerful strokes to make the most of its harder sponge and tacky topsheet. If you believe that these rubbers might be too fast for you, you might want to check out our tensor recommendations for all skill levels.
Considering the characteristics of these rubbers, they are best suited for players with different skill levels and playing styles. The Butterfly Tenergy 05 is recommended for advanced players who have developed solid fundamentals and possess good ball control and technique. It is ideal for players who rely on spin as a primary weapon and prefer a well-rounded and versatile playing style. On the other hand, the DHS Hurricane 3 is recommended for advanced to professional players who have a more aggressive playing style and prioritize power and speed over spin. It is ideal for players who are comfortable with a harder rubber and can generate fast and powerful strokes.
Which rubber to use on forehand vs backhand
A common recommendation among table tennis players is to use the DHS Hurricane 3 on the forehand and the Butterfly Tenergy 05 on the backhand. This combination allows players to take advantage of the Hurricane 3's power and spin on the forehand side, where players typically generate more power, while using the Tenergy 05's spin-oriented characteristics for better control and versatility on the backhand side.
Professional players using Hurricane 3 / Tenergy 05
Many professional players around the world have chosen the Butterfly Tenergy 05 and the DHS Hurricane 3 as their rubber of choice. For example, top Chinese players such as Ma Long and Fan Zhendong have been known to use the DHS Hurricane 3 on their forehand. Fan Zhendong uses Tenergy 05 on the backhand while Ma Long uses the NEO version (green packaging) of Hurricane 3 for his backhand as both, Tenergy 05 and NEO Hurricane 3 offer more catapult effect which can be beneficial to compensate for lack of power when playing backhand. These players have mastered the unique characteristics of these rubbers and have used them to achieve great success in international competitions. It is also notworthy that European players like Timo Boll and Dima Ovtcharov used to play with Tenergy 05 but have now shifted away towards rubbers with harder sponges and stickier topsheet like Butterfly Dignics 09C. Learn more about this rubber on our page The Best Table Tennis Rubber in the World.
Durability and Maintenance
One important aspect to consider when comparing table tennis rubbers is their durability and maintenance requirements. The Butterfly Tenergy 05 and the DHS Hurricane 3 differ in their durability and the recommended cleaning and maintenance procedures.
The Butterfly Tenergy 05 is known for its durability and can withstand prolonged use without significant loss in performance. The topsheet and sponge are designed to maintain their characteristics over time, providing consistent performance even after extended play. When it comes to cleaning, the topsheet of the Tenergy 05 can be easily cleaned with a rubber cleaner or water, followed by gentle wiping with a clean cloth to remove dirt and debris. It is recommended to clean the rubber regularly to maintain its tackiness and optimal performance.
On the other hand, the DHS Hurricane 3 is known to be less durable compared to the Butterfly Tenergy 05. The tacky topsheet of the Hurricane 3 can wear out more quickly, especially with aggressive brushing techniques and high-speed play. However, the sponge of the Hurricane 3 is generally more resilient and retains its firmness even with frequent use. Cleaning the Hurricane 3 requires special attention as the tacky topsheet can accumulate dirt and debris easily, affecting its performance. It is recommended to clean the Hurricane 3 with a rubber cleaner specifically designed for tacky rubbers and avoid using water, as it can diminish the tackiness of the topsheet.
Different Versions of DHS Hurricane 3
The DHS Hurricane 3 rubber is available in different versions, including National, Provincial, and Commercial versions, which cater to different skill levels and playing styles. These versions vary in terms of their performance characteristics, availability, and suitability for different players.
1) National Version
The National version of DHS Hurricane 3 is considered the highest quality and is typically used by professional players in China. It is known for its exceptional spin, speed, and power, making it ideal for advanced to professional players with an aggressive playing style. The topsheet of the National version is typically tackier and the sponge is harder compared to other versions, providing maximum spin potential and speed. However, the National version is usually given only to professional players while hobbyists probably will not have access to it. Be aware that there are often fake versions sold especially on sketchy online shops, so if you can find a good deal on a National version of Hurricane 3, keep in mind that it is very likely you are either looking at a scam or at the National version of the Hurricane 3 NEO which has very difference playing characteristics compared to the non-NEO version. On the right, you can see a picture of the cover of the NEO version which has a green color. The original, non-NEO version should be purple.
Recommendation: The National version is recommended for professional players only who prioritize spin and power in their game and are willing to invest in a premium-quality rubber. It is suitable for players who have mastered advanced techniques and can generate high-speed strokes with precise control.
2) Provincial Version
The Provincial version of DHS Hurricane 3 is a step below the National version in terms of quality and is designed for competitive players. It offers similar performance characteristics to the National version, including high spin potential and speed, but may have slightly less tackiness on the topsheet and a slightly softer sponge. The Provincial version is more widely available compared to the National version and is used by many professional players outside of China.
Recommendation: The Provincial version is recommended for competitive players who are looking for a high-quality rubber with excellent spin and speed, but may not have access to the National version. It is suitable for players with advanced skills who require a top-performing rubber for their aggressive playing style. At prices around 60-70 USD we highly recommend the Provincial version to any competitive player who likes to play with hard, sticky rubbers.
3) Commercial Version
The Commercial version of DHS Hurricane 3 is designed for recreational and club-level players. It offers good spin and speed, but may have a slightly lower tackiness on the topsheet and a softer sponge compared to the Provincial and National versions. There is also less quality control compared to the other versions so be aware that your sheet might not come in in perfect condition. The Commercial version is more readily available and affordable compared to the higher-end versions.
Recommendation: The Commercial version is recommended for recreational players and club-level players who are looking for a budget-friendly option with decent spin and speed. It is suitable for players who are still developing their skills and want a reliable rubber for their practice sessions and friendly matches.
Availability
The Commercial version of DHS Hurricane 3 is typically easy to find in most table tennis stores and online retailers, making it accessible to a wide range of players. The Provincial version, on the other hand, may be harder to obtain outside of China and may require special ordering or sourcing from specific suppliers. The National version can only be used by professional players.
Conclusion
Summing things up, the Butterfly Tenergy 05 and the DHS Hurricane 3 are two high-performance table tennis rubbers with distinct characteristics that cater to different playing styles and skill levels. The Butterfly Tenergy 05 is known for its spin-oriented and versatile playing experience, making it ideal for advanced players who prioritize spin and control. On the other hand, the DHS Hurricane 3 is known for its power and speed, making it suitable for advanced to professional players with an aggressive playing style. Both rubbers are popular choices among top players worldwide and offer unique advantages for those who have mastered their specific characteristics.
When choosing between these two rubbers, it is important to consider your playing style, skill level, and personal preferences. Trying out both rubbers and experimenting with different combinations on your paddle can help you determine which one suits your game the best. Whether you prefer the Butterfly Tenergy 05 or the DHS Hurricane 3, these rubbers are sure to elevate your table tennis game to new heights with their high-performance features and capabilities. So, go ahead and choose the one that suits your playing style and unleash your full potential on the table tennis table!
Not sure which rubber suits you best?
Check out our list of the best table tennis rubbers to find the best match for your style.
