The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 is designed for advanced players who want a balanced round frame built for game construction, while the NOX Equation Soft Advanced 2027 targets intermediate players looking for high arm comfort and maximum control. In our assessment, both models feature soft cores and large sweet spots, but they differ in target skill level and precise court characteristics.
| Feature | adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 | NOX Equation Soft Advanced 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Target Level (Manufacturer) | Advanced | Intermediate |
| Shape (Manufacturer) | Round | Round |
| Weight (Manufacturer) | 365 g | 355–365 g |
| Balance (Manufacturer) | Even | Not stated |
| Frame Material (Manufacturer) | Carbon 6K | Carbon |
| Face Material (Manufacturer) | Not stated | 3K Fiberglass |
| Core Material (Manufacturer) | Soft | HR3 SOFT EVA |
| Thickness (Manufacturer) | Not stated | 38 mm |
| Season (Manufacturer) | Not stated | 2027 |
| Core Hardness (our assessment) | Soft | Soft |
| Power vs Control (our assessment) | 2 (out of 5) | 1 (out of 5) |
| Sweet Spot (our assessment) | Large | Large |
| Player Types (our assessment) | Builder | Builder, Counter |
Which one has more power?
Neither of these rackets is engineered as a high-powered overhead weapon. Both feature round shapes and soft core constructions (HR3 SOFT EVA in the NOX and a soft core in the adidas), which favor ball output and absorption over raw power.
However, on our power versus control scale of 1 (pure control) to 5 (pure power), we rate the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 at a 2, whereas we rate the NOX Equation Soft Advanced 2027 at a 1. In net play situations such as medium-speed volleys or measured viboras, the adidas provides slightly more leverage due to its 365 g weight combined with an even balance and Carbon 6K frame. The NOX Equation Soft Advanced 2027 leans strictly into full control, offering maximum touch at the expense of terminal smash power.
Which is easier to play and defend with?
Both rackets excel in defensive scenarios off the glass. In our assessment, both frames share a soft core hardness and a large sweet spot, meaning off-center hits are handled cleanly without punishing vibration or loss of control.
When defending deep in the court, the NOX Equation Soft Advanced 2027 offers a forgiving response. Its 3K Fiberglass face combined with the HR3 SOFT EVA core helps generate effortless depth on lob attempts and resets. With a weight range of 355–365 g and a standard 38 mm thickness, it provides a manageable swing for developing players.
The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 offers strong stability at 365 g with an even balance, making it ideal for accurate chiquitas and precise placement. Because the manufacturer specifies this racket for advanced players, it rewards consistent technique while maintaining excellent control and arm comfort.
Who should buy which?
The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 is suited for:
- Advanced players who want a control-oriented, round frame with an even balance.
- Game builders who prioritize accurate placement, bandejas, and controlled net play.
- Players looking for a soft core setup with a Carbon 6K frame structure.
The NOX Equation Soft Advanced 2027 is suited for:
- Intermediate players developing their defensive consistency and precision.
- Counter-attackers and builders seeking a pure control setup (rated 1 out of 5 in our power vs control assessment).
- Players seeking maximum arm comfort from a 3K Fiberglass face and HR3 SOFT EVA core.
What are the main material differences between these two rackets?
According to the manufacturers, the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 features a Carbon 6K frame with a soft core (face material is not stated). The NOX Equation Soft Advanced 2027 utilizes a Carbon frame, 3K Fiberglass face, and an HR3 SOFT EVA core.
How do the balances of these rackets compare?
The manufacturer states that the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 features an even balance. The balance point for the NOX Equation Soft Advanced 2027 is not stated by the manufacturer.
Which player types do we assign to each racket?
In our assessment, the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 is best suited for builder player types, while the NOX Equation Soft Advanced 2027 caters to both builder and counter player types.