The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 is best suited for advanced control players who want a soft feel and even balance to carefully build points from the back of the court. On the other hand, the NOX Equation Hard Advanced 2027 fits intermediate players who want a round frame combined with a hard core touch to comfortably support both point-building and fast counter-play. Choose adidas if defensive comfort and control are your top priorities, or NOX if you prefer a firmer impact response for net play.
| Feature | adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 | NOX Equation Hard Advanced 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Target Level (Manufacturer) | Advanced | Intermediate |
| Season | Not stated | 2027 |
| Shape | Round | Round |
| Balance | Even | Not stated |
| Weight | 365 g | 355–365 g |
| Profile Thickness | Not stated | 38 mm |
| Frame Material | Carbon 6K | Carbon |
| Face Material | Not stated | 3K Fiberglass |
| Core (Manufacturer) | Soft | HR3 HARD EVA |
| Core Hardness (our assessment) | Soft (our assessment) | Hard (our assessment) |
| Power vs Control (our assessment) | 2 / 5 (our assessment) | 3 / 5 (our assessment) |
| Sweet Spot (our assessment) | Large (our assessment) | Large (our assessment) |
| Player Profiles (our assessment) | Builder (our assessment) | Builder, Counter (our assessment) |
Which one has more power?
In our assessment, the NOX Equation Hard Advanced 2027 holds the edge in overall power, rating a 3 out of 5 on our power versus control scale compared to the 2 out of 5 rating for the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5.
This difference stems primarily from the core materials. NOX features an HR3 HARD EVA core, which in our assessment delivers a hard core touch. A harder core absorbs less impact energy on high-speed shots, helping players drive smashes and execute aggressive overheads like the vibora with extra output.
Conversely, adidas utilizes a soft core, which in our assessment gives the racket a softer overall hardness. While a soft core offers comfortable ball output at slower swing speeds, it tends to absorb energy on maximum-effort smashes. This makes the adidas a control-first option rather than a power weapon.
Which is easier to play and defend with?
Both rackets feature round shapes and, in our assessment, both possess a large sweet spot. This makes both models forgiving on off-center hits when defending deep in your own court or retrieving tricky wall rebounds.
However, their defensive handling differs in touch. The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 pairs its round shape with an even balance and a soft core. When defending off the glass or attempting delicate chiquitas, the softer core provides an extended feel on the ball, making it easier to control ball placement under pressure.
For the NOX Equation Hard Advanced 2027, the weight ranges between 355 and 365 grams, but its balance is not stated. The combination of a 3K Fiberglass face and a hard EVA core means the racket provides a firm surface when blocking fast drives at the net. It requires reliable technique to manage touch defense, but rewards players with immediate feedback when blocking or volleying.
How do the materials and construction compare?
The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 uses a Carbon 6K frame with a soft core. The manufacturer does not state the face material or profile thickness. This construction emphasizes structural rigidity in the frame combined with a cushioned core touch.
The NOX Equation Hard Advanced 2027 incorporates a Carbon frame with a 3K Fiberglass face, a 38 mm thickness, and an HR3 HARD EVA core. The fiberglass face adds elasticity, while the hard EVA core balances it out to maintain a firm overall feel.
Who should buy which?
adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5
- Advanced players who prioritize maximum placement accuracy over raw power.
- Point builders who focus on long rallies, lob depth, and controlling the tempo.
- Players seeking arm comfort, as the soft core helps absorb impact vibration.
- Defensive tacticians who benefit from an even balance and a round shape.
NOX Equation Hard Advanced 2027
- Intermediate players looking to transition into a firmer, more responsive racket.
- Builders and counter-attackers who need a balanced 3/5 power-to-control ratio to swing from defense to net aggression.
- Volleyers and blockers who prefer the crisp, direct feedback of an HR3 HARD EVA core.
- Players wanting standard specs, including a 38 mm profile and 355–365 g weight range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in touch between these two rackets?
According to official specs and in our assessment, the adidas features a soft core giving it a softer touch, whereas the NOX relies on an HR3 HARD EVA core assessed as hard.
What are the power versus control ratings for each racket?
In our assessment, the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 scores a 2 out of 5 (control-focused), while the NOX Equation Hard Advanced 2027 scores a 3 out of 5 (balanced power and control).
Are the balance and thickness specifications stated for both models?
The adidas specifies an even balance, but its thickness is not stated. The NOX specifies a 38 mm thickness, but its balance is not stated.