The most overlooked balance racket series from the Blue Factory has finally been filled in. After using the HX500P and finding that the database did not separate the two rackets, I initially thought of skipping the HX500C. Later, as updates were made and my interest grew, I decided to complete the review.
Specifications:
4UG5, with base layer, total weight 93.0g in used condition, balance point 283mm, 6.8mm Babolat carbon shaft, shaft length 208mm, medium to high stiffness, diamond-shaped frame, 9-3 o’clock grommet design, 76-hole string bed, warranty of 27 lbs, strung with 25-27 lbs KT65.
As the twin of the relatively unknown HX500P, the HX500C and P are distinctly different. This isn’t due to a difference in style but rather the color schemes: the Power version uses a black base coat, while the Control version uses a white base coat. The fluorescent yellow stickers add a touch of freshness, making the racket look more neutral and suitable for female players as well.
I haven’t used a diamond-shaped frame for a long time, and the frame shape popularized by the Nano 7 has no secrets left. While this construction was necessary back then to combine swing speed and stability, today’s material science allows for frames with better performance.
However, the racket still has a good temperament. With a larger frame area and a lower balance point, it requires less effort from the user and makes it easier to hit high clears. The face has a noticeable holding feel, familiar to those who have used the Nano 7. The short shaft gives a bit of a mismatch; with the setup for explosiveness and recovery speed, I would prefer a crisper response.
The elasticity of the racket is still excellent. As a high-end racket priced at 1280 yuan, the shaft material was top-notch at the time, though it lacks the special fibers found in other technologies like Nano Fortity/TR+/SR+/EM. The potential of the diamond-shaped frame is mostly exhausted, so the 500C falls short in torsional resistance, with deformation after stringing being average.
Compared to the 500P, the Control version has improved flexibility, making mid-court shots and counter-attacks easier and showing an advantage in swing speed. This makes the 4U HX500C more suitable for women’s singles or doubles. The short shaft’s advantage in fast-paced rallies is evident, with quick recovery and explosive power, but the holding feel on the face reduces the crispness of shots.
While the 500P also has a noticeable holding feel, it has a stiffer shaft and strong head-heavy balance, which suits aggressive play. The 500C, however, cannot avoid the issue of holding feel affecting its performance in flat drives.
The 500C excels in rear-court drop shots, providing a good feel for control and allowing for quick, precise net shots. The flexibility and hold make it good for sudden angled shots. Yet, for net play, I prefer the stable feel of the 3U HX500P.
Although labeled as Control, the 500C is not weak in attacking. Its short and powerful shaft provides excellent explosiveness, with a sharp, explosive sound. It is more akin to the 88S in the Axforce series, showing good offensive feel and consistency. However, it lacks some downward pressure, making it difficult to control the ball when physical strength wanes, a problem not present in the 500P.
The 500C is good for defense, with high tolerance and elasticity. It returns shots well in passive situations and feels good for backhand shots, though I’m not a fan of its less direct feel when using it for returns. This results in less abruptness in flat shots.
The HX series also includes the 800 series with P and C variants, with the 800C being distinctive and the 500 series focusing more on Power. While the 500C is a good racket, its diamond frame and face characteristics leave it somewhat average, creating a bit of regret and making it feel more neutral.
