The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 is best suited for advanced control-oriented builders who prefer a soft core touch for precise play. Meanwhile, the NOX Equation Hard Advanced caters to intermediate players—both builders and counter-attackers—who want a firmer core response. While both feature round shapes and forgiving sweet spots, their distinct core hardnesses and targeted skill levels set them apart.
| Feature | adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 | NOX Equation Hard Advanced |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer Shape | Round | Round |
| Manufacturer Balance | Even | Not stated |
| Manufacturer Weight | 365 g | 355–365 g |
| Frame Material | Carbon 6K | Not stated |
| Face Material | Not stated | Fiber Glass 3K |
| Core Material | Soft | HR3 HARD EVA |
| Targeted Skill Level | Advanced | Intermediate |
| Core Hardness (our assessment) | Soft | Hard |
| Power vs Control (our assessment) | 2 (Control-oriented) | 3 (Balanced) |
| Sweet Spot (our assessment) | Large | Large |
| Player Types (our assessment) | Builder | Builder, Counter |
Which one has more power?
In our assessment, the NOX Equation Hard Advanced offers slightly more power, receiving a 3 out of 5 on our power versus control scale compared to the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5, which we rate at a 2 out of 5.
This difference in power rating stems primarily from core composition. The NOX Equation Hard Advanced uses an HR3 HARD EVA core, which in our assessment results in a hard core density. A harder core yields less trampoline effect, allowing players to transfer direct kinetic force into overhead shots such as smashes or fast viboras.
Conversely, the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 features a soft core, which in our assessment acts as a softer, more dampening touch. While this absorbs shock effectively when blocking aggressive shots at the net, it reduces raw outward power generation compared to a firm core setup.
Which is easier to play and control?
Both rackets utilize a round shape, which natively shifts weight lower toward the handle and contributes to a generous hitting area. In our assessment, both models feature a large sweet spot, making off-center hits manageable when defending off the glass or attempting defensive lobs.
However, player experience will depend heavily on your control preferences and skill level:
- adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5: The manufacturer specifies an even balance and a 365 g static weight paired with a Carbon 6K frame. In our assessment, its soft core density combined with a power vs control rating of 2 provides maximum ball placement precision. It absorbs ball speed well, helping builders construct points carefully from the back of the court.
- NOX Equation Hard Advanced: Aimed at intermediate players, this racket weighs between 355–365 g and features a Fiber Glass 3K face. The manufacturer balance is not stated. Because of its hard core (HR3 HARD EVA), it offers a direct, clean response that helps counter-attackers redirect pace, though it offers less cushion than a soft core.
What are the key material trade-offs?
The primary material distinction lies in frame construction, face material, and core density:
- Frame and Face: The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 uses a Carbon 6K frame (face material is not stated by the manufacturer). Carbon frames provide structural rigidity. The NOX Equation Hard Advanced features a Fiber Glass 3K face, which typically provides flexibility (its frame material is not stated by the manufacturer).
- Core Response: The adidas model pairs a soft core with carbon frame elements, giving a plush feel at impact. The NOX model pairs a glass fiber face with a hard HR3 HARD EVA core, resulting in a firmer strike.
Who should buy which?
Choose the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 if you:
- Are an advanced player seeking a control-first racket to construct rallies.
- Prefer a soft core feel that cushions impact during defensive play off the glass.
- Want a defined weight setup (365 g) with an even balance and a Carbon 6K frame.
- Match the "builder" player profile focused on placement over brute force.
Choose the NOX Equation Hard Advanced if you:
- Are an intermediate player looking for a balanced profile (rating 3 out of 5 on our power vs control scale).
- Prefer a hard core density (HR3 HARD EVA) for immediate feedback on bandejas and block volleys.
- Want a round shape with a Fiber Glass 3K face and a weight range of 355–365 g.
- Play as a builder or counter-attacker who likes redirecting opponent pace.
What is the balance of the NOX Equation Hard Advanced?
The manufacturer balance for the NOX Equation Hard Advanced is not stated. In contrast, the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 has an even balance specified by its manufacturer.
How do the cores compare between these two rackets?
The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 uses a soft core, which we rate as soft in our assessment. The NOX Equation Hard Advanced uses an HR3 HARD EVA core, which we rate as hard in our assessment.
Which player types do these rackets suit?
In our assessment, the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 is suited for builders, while the NOX Equation Hard Advanced is suited for both builders and counter-attackers.