Table of Contents
Introduction
What does CTRL actually mean for Adidas Metalbone?
The power models: built to finish
The CTRL models: built for control
CTRL vs Power at a glance
What type of player are you?
The biggest mistake players make
Conclusion: how to choose your Metalbone
Introduction
It's probably the most frequently asked question in our DMs and at our test days: "Should I get the regular Metalbone or the CTRL version?" It's understandable, because the Adidas Metalbone is one of the most popular racket lines in the world, and Adidas releases both a power and a CTRL variant of almost every model. They look almost identical but play completely differently.
In this guide, we'll clearly explain the difference between power and CTRL, so you'll know exactly which Metalbone suits your game. No marketing jargon, just how it truly feels on the court. We test them all ourselves, after all.
What does CTRL actually mean for Adidas Metalbone?
CTRL simply stands for "control." While the standard Metalbone models are all about maximum power, the CTRL versions are designed to give you more grip on the game. Adidas achieves this with three adjustments compared to the power models:
A rounder shape instead of a pronounced diamond shape, making the sweet spot larger and more forgiving.
A lower and more even balance point, making the racket feel more agile and quicker behind the ball.
A softer material composition, which provides more comfort and less strain on your arm.
The most important thing to remember: CTRL doesn't mean "less good" or "for beginners." It means a different kind of game. Many advanced and even professional players consciously choose control over brute force.
The power models: built to finish
The standard Metalbone line is the weapon of world-class player Ale Galán. These rackets have a diamond shape with a high balance point, which means you feel a lot of weight and power in the top of the racket. The result: explosive smashes, powerful volleys, and the ability to finish points directly.
Within the power family, there are a few variations:
The Adidas Metalbone 3.5 is the flagship: power with surprising comfort.
The Adidas Metalbone Carbon 3.5 adds a stiffer, more direct carbon feel for extra precision.
The Adidas Metalbone HRD+ 3.5 is the most extreme: hard foam and an adjustable weight system for maximum, customizable power.
The downside of all that power? These rackets demand technique and timing. If you don't hit the ball exactly in the middle, they are less forgiving. Power rewards players who hit actively and cleanly through the ball.
The CTRL models: built for control
The CTRL models turn it around. Here, the focus is not on the knockout, but on controlling the point: placement, defense, net play, and consistency in long rallies.
The two main options:
The Adidas Metalbone CTRL 3.5 is the pure control version: rounder, stable, and forgiving, ideal for tactical and defensive play.
The Adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 combines that control with a more direct carbon feel, for players who want precision but still seek a bit more punch.
What you'll notice on the court: the ball stays on the face a little longer, you have more margin for error on difficult balls, and the racket is more comfortable during long matches. For players with sensitive elbows or shoulders, this is often the smarter choice.
CTRL vs Power at a glance
| Feature | Power Models | CTRL Models |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Diamond | Round / Teardrop |
| Balance | High (power from the top) | Low to medium (agile) |
| Sweetspot | Compact, requires precision | Large, forgiving |
| Power | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Control | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Comfort | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Playing Style | Attacking, finishing | Tactical, building points |
What type of player are you?
Still undecided? Identify with one of these profiles:
"I want to finish my smash hard and dominate at the net." → Choose a power model: the Metalbone 3.5, Carbon 3.5, or HRD+ 3.5.
"I build my points with placement and want to make few errors." → Choose a CTRL model: the Metalbone CTRL 3.5 or Carbon CTRL 3.5.
"I want power, but my arm or elbow sometimes acts up." → Go for CTRL. The comfort and larger sweet spot are gentler on your joints.
"I'm advanced and almost always hit the ball cleanly in the middle." → Then you'll get the most out of a power model.
The biggest mistake players make
The most common mistake? Players choose a power racket because it sounds cool or because their favorite pro plays with it, not because it suits their own game. The result: they don't hit the ball consistently enough, make more errors, and ultimately play worse than with a control-oriented racket.
Remember: pros have thousands of hours of training under their belt. A racket that provides power is only an advantage if you can use that power with control. For many players, a CTRL model actually yields more benefit because it allows for more consistent play and longer error-free rallies.
Our honest advice: choose based on how you play, not based on what sounds strongest.
Conclusion: how to choose your Metalbone
The difference between power and CTRL in the Adidas Metalbone is not a matter of better or worse, but of suitability for you. Do you want to dominate with power and explosive strokes? Then the power models are your weapon. Do you want to control the game with control, comfort, and consistency? Then a CTRL model will elevate your game.
Still in doubt? Visit one of our test days at Padelclub Rotterdam and play with both variants yourself. Or send us a DM via this link > questions link.