The Best Tennis Racquets – All Skill-Levels

As you step onto the court, the tennis racquet in your hand is more than just equipment—it’s an extension of your will to win and improve. Selecting from the best tennis racquets is crucial for players of all levels, from casual enthusiasts to aspiring professionals. This article will serve as your guide to navigating the vast array of options, helping you find the racquet that resonates with your playing style and elevates your game. Whether you’re serving aces or mastering backhands, the right choice will bring out the best in your performance.

Quick Answer

Our Top Picks

Babolat Pure Drive – For years, the Pure Drive has ranked among the world’s premier tennis racquets, suitable for players at every skill level.
⬇️Jump to Review

Head TI S6 – For those new to tennis and uncertain about a long-term commitment, the Head TI S6 serves as an ideal choice. It’s budget-friendly and boasts quality that encourages improvement.
⬇️Jump to Review

Wilson Clash 100 – The Clash stands out as the top tennis racquet for intermediate players.
⬇️Jump to Review

Head Boom MP – The Head Boom is a contemporary racquet designed for today’s club tennis enthusiasts.
⬇️Jump to Review

Wilson Pro Staff v13 – Emphasized by a design that pays homage to the historic Pro Staff series, the Pro Staff 97 v13 features a new Braid 45 construction that improves accuracy by adjusting the angle of the dual fiber weave for improved feel and stability.
⬇️Jump to Review

Yonex Ezone 100 – Yonex, a rapidly emerging tennis brand, crafts some of the world’s top racquets.
⬇️Jump to Review

Babolat Pure Aero – Formidable tool on the court. This helps in creating huge spin and power, whether it’s ground shots or serves.
⬇️Jump to Review

Head Extreme MP – The Extreme stands out as a versatile racket suitable for a wide range of players. Beginners will appreciate its powerful performance and generous sweet spot.
⬇️Jump to Review

Yonex VCORE Pro 97H 330 – This high-end tennis racquet is ideal for athletic players with physical strength and quick swings.
⬇️Jump to Review

Wilson Blade 98 v8 16×19 – The Blade ranks among the world’s most sought-after racquets. This iteration boasts remarkable comfort and is gentle on the arm.
⬇️Jump to Review

Reviews of the Best Tennis Racquets

Below, we’ll review each of the top racquets on our list in more detail.

Babolat Pure Drive

Rating 9.8*

Details:

For years, the Pure Drive has ranked among the world’s premier tennis racquets, suitable for players at every skill level. Embraced by numerous professional tennis enthusiasts, this racquet stands out for its powerful baseline shots. Additionally, it aids in generating impressive spin, provides commendable stability, and boasts a comfortable design.

Specs:

• Head Size: 100 sq. in.
• Strung Weight: 11.2 oz.
• Length: 27 in.
• String Pattern: 16×19

My Experience:

The Babolat Pure Drive is undoubtedly one of the finest racquets I’ve had the privilege of playing with. From the moment I gripped its handle, I felt an immediate sense of confidence and connection. The racquet resonates power and precision, making it easy to deliver those formidable baseline shots. What surprised me the most, however, was its impeccable spin generation, allowing me to catch my opponents off guard more often than not. Its stability, especially during off-center hits, is truly commendable.

Head TI S6

Rating 9.8*

Details:

For those new to tennis and uncertain about a long-term commitment, the Head TI S6 serves as an ideal choice. It’s budget-friendly and boasts quality that encourages improvement. Its generous head size and sweet spot are conducive to power and confidence-building for newcomers. The 16×19 string pattern positions it among the top tennis racquets for spin. As you progress to an intermediate level, the racquet remains suitable; however, transitioning to a more advanced model, such as the Clash mentioned below, might be a consideration.

Specs:

• Head Size:100 sq. in.
• Strung Weight: 11.2 oz.
• Length: 27 in.
• String Pattern: 16×19

My Experience:

Embarking on my tennis journey, I was initially quite wary of investing too much money into equipment. The Head TI S6 came as a pleasant surprise! For a racquet that’s easy on the wallet, it surely delivers outstanding value. I was immediately drawn to its generous head size, which proved forgiving for my beginners’ mishits and provided a confidence boost when I managed to hit the sweet spot. The power I could generate with this racquet was impressive, but what genuinely stood out for me was the spin capabilities, thanks to its 16×19 string pattern.

Wilson Clash 100

Rating 9.6*

Details:

The Clash stands out as the top tennis racquet for intermediate players. It masterfully blends control and power within its cozy 100-inch frame. Renowned for its gentleness on the arm, it’s especially suitable for those battling tennis elbow. As intermediate players wield this racquet, they’ll find enhanced spin and control, facilitating their continuous improvement on the court.

Specs:

• Head Size: 100 sq. in.
• Strung Weight: 11 oz.
• Length: 27 in.
• String Pattern: 16×19

Head Boom MP

Rating 9.6*

Details:

The Head Boom is a contemporary racquet designed for today’s club tennis enthusiasts. Its ergonomic 100-inch frame ensures easy swinging, allowing players to generate significant power and spin from the baseline. Its lightness not only facilitates swift court movement but also amplifies the speed of your serve.

Specs:

• Head Size: 100 sq. in.
• Strung Weight: 11.1 oz.
• Length: 27 in.
• String Pattern: 16×19

Wilson Pro Staff v13

Rating 9.5*

Details:

The Pro Staff, co-designed and favored by Roger Federer, is an advanced racquet boasting a stable, comfortable 97 square inch frame. Its open 16×19 string pattern enhances both power and spin. Regarded as one of the premier tennis racquets for seasoned players, it excels in managing fast-paced shots and provides unparalleled touch on volleys and slice shots.

Specs:

• Head Size: 97 sq. in.
• Strung Weight: 11.7 oz.
• Length: 27 in.
• String Pattern: 16×19

Yonex Ezone 100

Rating 9.3*

Details:

Yonex, a rapidly emerging tennis brand, crafts some of the world’s top racquets. The Ezone stands as a harmoniously balanced racquet, combining impressive power, comfort, and touch. With its 100 square inch frame and an open string pattern, it’s conducive to ample spin. Players seeking controlled power from the baseline will appreciate this racquet.

Specs:

• Head Size: 100 sq. in.
• Strung Weight: 11.2 oz.
• Length: 27 in.
• String Pattern: 16×19

Babolat Pure Aero

Rating 9.3*

Details:

Endorsed by Rafael Nadal, the Babolat Pure Aero is a formidable tool on the court. It aids in producing immense spin and power, whether for groundstrokes or serves. On receiving an approach shot, this is the racquet you’d ideally want at your disposal. It’s perfectly suited for intermediate and advanced tennis players who approach the game with vigor.

Specs:

• Head Size: 100 sq. in.
• Strung Weight: 11.2 oz.
• Length: 27 in.
• String Pattern: 16×19

Head Extreme MP

Rating 9.1*

Details:

The Extreme stands out as a versatile racquet suitable for a range of players. Novices will appreciate its powerful output and generous sweet spot. Those at an intermediate level can leverage it to refine their topspin and slice techniques. Meanwhile, seasoned players will find it aids in dominating rallies with assertive strokes and bolstering their serve’s power.

Specs:

• Head Size: 100 sq. in.
• Strung Weight: 11.2 oz.
• Length: 27 in.
• String Pattern: 16×19

Yonex VCORE Pro 97H 330

Rating 9*

Details:

This high-end tennis racquet is ideal for athletic players with physical strength and quick swings. Its heftiness contributes to generating force and offers added steadiness during volleys and returns. The 16×19 string arrangement amplifies both power and spin, while the 97 square inch Yonex frame enhances comfort.

Specs:

• Head Size: 97 sq. in.
• Strung Weight: 12.3 oz.
• Length: 27 in.
• String Pattern: 16×19

Wilson Blade 98 v8 16×19

Rating 9*

Details:

The Blade ranks among the world’s most sought-after racquets. This iteration boasts remarkable comfort and is gentle on the arm. With a balance of spin and tactile accuracy, it provides commendable stability for its weight, aiding control over both groundstrokes and volleys. It’s an excellent choice for players who can produce their own force but are looking for a racquet that’s gentle on the physique.

Specs:

• Head Size: 98 sq. in.
• Strung Weight: 11.3 oz.
• Length: 27 in.
• String Pattern: 16×19

How We Chose the Best Tennis Racquets

Our evaluation process was meticulous and encompassed a multitude of aspects, such as expert analyses, firsthand player testimonials, and practical on-court trials. Additionally, we delved deep into the racket’s specifications, the innovative technology integrated into its design, the brand’s esteemed standing in the industry, and its proven track record in delivering performance.

Selecting the Right Tennis Racquet: Key Considerations 

Embarking on the journey to find a new tennis racquet can be daunting. The starting point? Understanding your proficiency in the sport.

Determine Your Skill Level: 

Break it down into one of the following three groups:

1. Beginner: I’m at the initial stages of learning tennis.
2. Intermediate: I’ve played tennis before or just started and aim to continuously get better.
3. Advanced: Tennis is a regular part of my life, and I can masterfully execute shots with precision, spin, and power.

Once you’ve pinpointed your skill level, shift your focus to your broader objectives, physical capabilities, and financial constraints.

Setting Your Tennis Objectives, Acknowledging Athletic Abilities, & Budgeting

Your choice of racquet will largely depend on what you aspire to achieve.

– Tennis Objectives: Is your primary goal enhancement or recreation?

Those committed to honing their skills might want to splurge on top-tier equipment, potentially even multiple racquets. It’s common for seasoned players to carry multiple racquets due to the likelihood of string breakage during a game. However, if leisurely playing a couple of times a month suffices, a more affordable racquet should suffice.

– Assessing Athletic Abilities & Hand-Eye Coordination: As a newcomer, reflect on your history with other sports. What’s your current fitness state, agility, and strength?

An individual in their golden years might lean towards a tennis racquet optimized for power with a broader frame. In contrast, a sporty individual in their 30s may favor a racquet that prioritizes control — both these scenarios can apply even if their tennis skill level is identical.

– Budgetary Considerations: Top-tier racquets can exceed $200. Such an investment might be disproportionate for a novice uncertain about their long-term commitment to tennis. Determine a budget that aligns with your objectives and financial situation.

Tennis Racquet Features Breakdown

With countless brands touting various specs like balance, swing weight, and flex rating, the technical jargon can be overwhelming. We’ve streamlined this for you, spotlighting only the pivotal specifications.

This guide aims to provide clarity on what attributes to prioritize in your quest for the ideal tennis racquet.

Terms to Know When Shopping for Tennis Racquets

When you delve into the world of racquet shopping, you’ll encounter various terms used by manufacturers to convey the racquet’s performance attributes. Here, we’ll demystify the key terms you should be familiar with, as well as some specialized terminology primarily for seasoned players.

Tennis Racquet Terms Everyone Should Know

• Head Size: This refers to the area of the racquet where the strings are located. Head sizes can vary, starting from around 90 square inches for advanced racquets and going up to about 115 square inches for beginner ones.

• Weight: This pertains to the racquet’s mass. Often, the weight is determined without the strings attached, though occasionally it includes the weight with strings. A renowned seller, Tennis Warehouse, gauges the weight of each racquet when strung. Ensure consistency when drawing comparisons.

• Length: Standard tennis racquets measure about 27 inches in length. However, there are oversized versions reaching up to 28 inches, which can enhance the power of your strokes.

• String Pattern: This term denotes the arrangement and count of main and cross strings on the racquet. Familiar string patterns are 16×19, 18×19, and 18×20. A higher count indicates a denser or “tight” string configuration, aiding in precision and touch. Conversely, fewer mains and crosses result in a more “open” pattern, which can boost power and spin. If you’re uncertain about string selection, check out our compilation of top tennis strings.

• Grip Size: Racquets come with various grip sizes, which buyers can select based on preference. Standard sizes range from 4 ⅛ to 4 ⅝, often numerically represented as 1 through 5. The 4 ⅜ size, or #3, is a common choice for many. Your selection should ideally be based on the size of your hand, adjusting by an eighth of an inch either way as needed.

Advanced Player Racquet Terminology

While the terms below might appear in your racquet research, they primarily concern players at a very advanced level, keen on perfecting every detail.

• Balance: This pertains to the distribution of weight throughout the racquet. Racquets described as “head light” have more weight concentrated in the handle, facilitating easier swings and maneuverability. Conversely, “head heavy” racquets provide enhanced stability and power but may challenge some when it comes to swinging.

• Swingweight: This indicates the effort required to swing the racquet. Measured on a 0 to 600 scale, a higher swingweight implies a more challenging racquet to swing, with head heavy racquets generally falling on the higher end.

• Stiffness (or Flex): This term defines the flexibility of a racquet, gauged on a 0 to 100 scale, where 100 signifies the highest stiffness level. More rigid racquets offer superior power and steadiness, but potentially at the cost of comfort and touch. Those experiencing elbow issues, such as tendonitis, might lean towards a more flexible racquet.

• Beam Width: Looking at a racquet from a side angle reveals its beam width, usually quantified in millimeters. Broad-beamed racquets tend to offer more power, whereas narrower beams lend themselves to improved control and touch.

About racquet weight

For an average adult male with a robust playing style or high aspirations, I’d suggest racquets weighing between 290-320g (10.5-11.3oz), irrespective of their expertise.

For the average adult female, the recommended weight is a bit lighter: 280–310g (10.2–11 oz).

Note: The indicated weights are for racquets unstrung.

Is it possible to buy a heavier racquet than I can take right now?

If you prefer, you can opt for a somewhat heavier racquet, especially if you plan to build the endurance and strength to wield it.

However, ensure your ambitions are achievable. If you’re not committed to the work required, it’s not wise to purchase a weightier racquet with the intention of growing into it.

What racket balance is best?

Racquet balance pertains to the distribution of weight within the frame. An evenly balanced racquet will have its balance point situated at the midpoint of the frame.

The core concept controlled by balance is the “swing weight” of the racquet. You’ll encounter terms such as “head heavy” and “head light” when perusing product details or critiques.

A racquet is considered “head heavy” when the majority of its weight is distributed towards the hoop, further from the central rotational axis. This configuration gives the impression of a heavier weight at the moment of ball contact, imparting more power to the shot. However, it comes at the cost of decreased maneuverability and increased difficulty in swinging the racquet.

On paper, a head-heavy design seems beneficial – offering the power of a heavier racquet while maintaining a lighter weight. But there’s a trade-off. Head-heavy frames introduce additional torque on the wrist, elbow, and shoulder during a swing.

This added strain means that head-heavy racquets can contribute to conditions like “tennis elbow” and other related injuries. That’s why I advise against using them, especially for beginners. The downside is a racquet that hinders proper stroke development and elevates the risk of tennis-associated ailments.

Conversely, it’s generally advisable to choose a racquet with a head-light balance, which indicates more weight is concentrated in the handle. Manufacturers denote this in “points”. The exact degree of head-light nature will depend on the overall weight of the racquet. As a rule of thumb, the heavier the racquet, the more head-light it should be.

What Stiffness of Racquet is Best?

Racquet stiffness is a crucial factor in determining both power and comfort. Generally, the stiffer the racquet, the more power it provides, as it deflects or bends less upon impact. In contrast, a more flexible racquet absorbs more of the ball’s energy, resulting in less power for the shot.

However, does a more flexible frame necessarily mean greater comfort? The connection between stiffness and comfort isn’t always straightforward and can depend on individual tastes. When a racquet interacts with a ball, it produces vibrations. These vibrations are more intense but short-lived in stiffer racquets, while in softer ones, they’re milder but persist for longer.

Broadly, flexible racquets tend to offer more comfort and are associated with a lower risk of tennis elbow. However, some players might have a different experience. Factors like string type, grip size, and string pattern can influence how a racquet feels. Sometimes, a racquet with a higher stiffness rating might feel equally or even more comfortable than its less stiff counterpart.

From my standpoint, the choice of tennis string impacts comfort more than the stiffness of the racquet itself, so I don’t always prioritize it.

If arm issues concern you or if you’re already experiencing them, it might be beneficial to explore racquets with a softer frame. A racquet’s stiffness is typically represented by a rating: a lower value indicates more flexibility, while a higher one suggests greater stiffness. Most racquets have a stiffness rating ranging from 55 to 75 RA.

What String Pattern Should You Choose?

The string arrangement on a racquet, often denoted as, for instance, 16 main strings x 19 cross strings, is referred to as the string pattern. This configuration has a direct influence on the stiffness of the string bed and the racquet’s spin potential.

A denser string bed, typically, will offer less deflection when the ball is struck, resulting in consistent responses. For example, an 18 x 20 string pattern typically provides a stiffer string bed because of reduced deflection upon impact. On the other hand, a 16 x 19 pattern creates a more flexible string bed.

However, spin is perhaps the more crucial consideration here. Racquets with a wider string arrangement, having more gaps between the strings, allow for more string movement, thus producing greater spin. For this reason, I generally suggest the 16 x 19 pattern for most players, given the significance of spin in contemporary tennis.

However, if your playing style involves more direct, flat shots with minimal spin, you might benefit from a denser string pattern, which offers consistent ball response.

What Head Size Should You Get?

Head size is a nuanced factor, much like stiffness, and it’s hard to declare one size as definitively superior. A racquet with a larger head size may provide a marginal boost in power, but the difference between a 98 sq” frame and a 95sq” frame, when all other specifications are equal, might not be as noticeable as one might think.

Racquets  with a bigger head size offer better rotational stability. This is because their strings cover a larger area, distributing the frame’s weight more broadly. Consequently, when a ball is struck away from the stringbed’s center, a larger head size requires more force to cause the racket to twist in your hand. This characteristic means that larger head sizes can be more “forgiving,” as they resist twisting on off-center shots, leading to fewer miss-hits and unexpected ball trajectories. You’ll often come across the term ‘forgiving’ in reviews for racquets with bigger head sizes.

However, there’s a balance to strike. As the racket head becomes broader, it can become more challenging for players to intentionally twist it for specific shots, like adding spin on a sharp volley or adjusting the racquet face angle.

For the majority of players, I would suggest opting for a racket head size ranging from 98 to 100 sq inches.

The Best Racquet Specification For Most Players

Having synthesized the five criteria and their suggestions, the ideal racket specifications you might consider are:

For an average adult male:

Weight: 280-320g, Balance: 5-12 points head-light, String Pattern: 16×19, Head Size: 98-100 sq”. Stiffness should be determined based on personal feel after trying out.

For an average adult female:

Weight: 270-310g, Balance: 3-8 points head-light, String Pattern: 16×19, Head Size: 98-105 sq”. Stiffness should be determined based on personal feel after trying out.

FAQs 

What is the most popular tennis racquet for pros?

Most professional players use custom racquets tailored to their specific needs. However, one of the most popular models on the pro tour is the Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph.

How much money is a good tennis racquet? 

A good quality adult tennis racket can cost anywhere from $100 to $250. High-end racquets used by professionals can cost even more.

What is a good tennis racquet for an intermediate player?

Intermediate players often benefit from a balanced racket that offers a mix of power and control. The Wilson Clash 100 and Babolat Pure Drive are both excellent choices.

What do I do with old tennis racquets? 

You can donate old racquets to local schools, clubs, or charities. Some organizations refurbish used tennis racquets and give them to underprivileged children.