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Tennis is one of the most inexpensive sports in terms of required equipment. In fact, since there are so many free community tennis courts, most players simply need access to a tennis ball and a tennis racket. While tennis balls are all typically quite inexpensive, tennis rackets can range from very inexpensive to very expensive.
The type of racket you will want to purchase depends mostly on your level of experience and your personal preference.
The sport of tennis appeals to both children and adults. As such, a variety of tennis rackets have been created to meet the needs of both children, adolescents, and adults.
In general, tennis rackets for children, adolescents, and beginning adults tend to have a wider face and tend to be longer in length. This feature assists novice and young players with hitting the tennis ball. However, it also means that you are not able to control the racket as much as you can with other types of tennis rackets.
Want to know more about some of the best tennis rackets that are available? The below review will give you some tips on how to choose a tennis racket and items that you should consider when buying your new racket. In addition, you will be able to read five short reviews for some of the best tennis rackets available.
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How to Choose the Best Tennis Racket
When choosing a good tennis racket, several factors will need to be considered.
The first factor to think about is whether the racket is being purchased for a child, adolescent, or adult.
Tennis rackets that are made for children and adolescents tend to be larger and longer than adult rackets. They are called junior tennis rackets.
Tennis rackets for adults come in three different types:
- Game Improvement Racket
- Player’s Racket
- Tweener Racket
The three different adults racket options can feel confusing, but they become clearer once you understand the differences.
Game Improvement Racket
The Game Improvement Racket is the best tennis racket for new players.
In fact, some intermediate players also prefer them. They usually weigh the least out of all the rackets and like the junior rackets, they also tend to have large heads to increase the space available for hitting the ball. They give new players more power.
Player’s Racket
The Player’s Racket is ideal for professional tennis players. They have small heads and enable players to have complete control over the movements. However, they offer little power, which is not usually a problem for professional players who have strong swings.
Tweener Racket
The last type of tennis racket, known as the Tweener Racket, provides a balance for players who want both control and power.
5 Things to Look For in a Good Tennis Racket
When choosing a tennis racket, there are several main considerations that you will want to think about.
- The first is whether you want a light or heavy tennis racket. Tennis rackets that weigh less are much easier to move around quickly than rackets that weigh a lot. In general, light rackets provide players with more control while heavy rackets give the player more power.
- The rackets are made from a variety of materials, so you may want to test a few out to determine which material weight you prefer the most.
- You will also need to decide whether you want to purchase a tennis racket that comes with strings or one that does not come with strings. If you choose one that does not come with the strings, make sure that you are aware that there will be extra fees both to purchase the string and to either buy a stringing machine to do this yourself or a fee to have someone string your racket for you.
- There are different types of string weaving patterns, which is another decision you will need to make.
- The grip size, length of the racket, and size of the head are also important to consider before buying a racket.
Best Tennis Racket Comparison Chart & Review 2019
IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
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BEST FOR JUNIORS | 1. Wilson Junior US Open Tennis Racquet
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BEST FOR BEGINNER | 2. Street Tennis Club 19' inch Pink Tennis Rackets for Kids
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BEST FOR INTERMEDIATE | 3. Babolat Nadal 26 Junior Tennis Racquet
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BEST FOR ADVANCED | 4. Babolat Pure drive
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BEST FOR ADVANCED (RUNNER UP) | 5. The Prince Textreme Tour 100T racquet
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6. Babolat Drive Lite
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7. YONEX EZone DR 100 Tennis Racquet
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8. Wilson Blade 98 (16×19) Countervail Racquet
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9. Wilson Blade SW104 Autograph Countervail
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10. Head Graphene 360 Speed Pro
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Tennis Racket For Junior Tennis Players
Wilson US Open Junior Tennis Racquet
The Wilson US Junior Tennis Racquet is one of the lowest-priced rackets on the market, which make it appealing for consumers who want an extra tennis racket and/or a tennis racket that does not cost too much.
It conveniently comes in four different sizes. Tennis players of all levels and abilities can choose from one of the following four sizes: 25-inch, 23-inch, 21-inch, and 19-inch. These tennis rackets are ideal for players who are younger than ten years of age.
This tennis racket has a number of unique and appealing features. The 19-inch tennis racket is 20.1 x 7.1 x 17.3 inches. The rackets are all made from aluminum and are lightweight. The rackets come pre-strung.
The Wilson US Junior Tennis Racquet is an ideal choice for consumers seeking a low-priced tennis racket.
PROS
- Affordable cost of the tennis racket
- Most suited for children who are 10-years-old or younger
- This racquet already comes with strings!
CONS
- Racket does not come with a cover
- Low cost may mean it does not hold up well over time
- Small grip size & not have a lot of power
Street Tennis Club Rackets for Kids
The Street Tennis Club Tennis Rackets for Kids offers another choice for parents who are shopping for children’s tennis rackets.
This racket comes in three child-friendly sizes (17-inch, 19-inch, and 21-inch). The material is built to hold up well. Children can choose from three different colors, which each comes with a smiley face on the face of the racquet. Comes with a free game when you purchase this racket.
The Street Tennis Club Tennis Rackets for Kids is sure to delight your toddler or young child. The smiley face makes the racket a fun addition to your child’s sports collection. In addition, this racket will help your child learn how to play tennis correctly. Kids love picking their new racket from among the three color choices.
Parents love that they can find the exact size of the tennis racket that best matches the age of their child.
PROS
- 3 different colors to pick from: pink/white, black/white, or black/yellow
- The cost of the racket is very low
- Large head helps young players hit the ball - ideal for toddlers
- Durable aluminum so racket will last for a long time
CONS
- You can find similar rackets at a more affordable price
Babolat Nadal 26 Junior Tennis Racquet
The Babolat Nadal 26 Junior Tennis Racquet is one of the top tennis rackets for junior players.
This racket has a height of 8.6 ounces and a head size of 105 sq. inches. The oversized head makes it easier to hit balls. Additionally, the racket has a 4-inch grip and is 26 inches in length.
The racket is ideal for users who are at least eleven years of age or older. This tennis racket is made from aluminum, which can withstand harsh practice conditions.
The Babolat Nadal 26 Junior Tennis Racquet holds up well over time, and is ideal for young beginners.
PROS
- Comes with a tennis racket cover
- Racket comes with strings
- Created from durable material - will hold up well over time
CONS
- More expensive than other comparable models
- The measurements of the racket that you receive may vary slightly from what the manufacturers list
Tennis Racket For Adult Beginner to Intermediate Tennis Players
Babolat Pure Drive 2018
Babolat Pure drive is an excellent option for beginners, the larger head size means bigger sweet-spot and therefore it will be more forgiving on the groundstrokes.
Spin and power come very easily and it also makes life easier when volleying. The woofer technology enhances control of the ball and the cortex system will give you the necessary control level and improve the feel for the ball.
Specifications: Head Size: 115 square inches, Length: 27,6 inches, Weight: 255 grams, Balance: 355mm (Head Heavy) and Composition: Graphite
PROS
- Larger head size - bigger sweet spot
- Upgraded with technology for ball control
- Quality material that will last for a long time
- 5 sizes to choose from
CONS
- Shipped unstrung and without cover (but there's an option to order them)
The Prince Textreme Tour 100T racquet
The Prince Textreme Tour 100T racquet is highly recommended to tennis players who crave for a faster and a controllable powerful racquet. The racquet update makes use of Textreme- a strong and light material that is used in Formula 1 cars, which makes the racquet more stable without necessarily depriving it of its maneuverability. This racquet is overly recommended for use by the beginner players but may be considered too light for the intermediate players.
Specifications: Length: 27 inches/69 centimeters, Head Size: 100 square inches/645 square centimeters, Weight: 10.8 ounces/306 grams, Balance Point: 13 inches/33 centimeters, Head Light: 4pts, Construction: 22mm / 23mm / 22mm, Composition: Graphite & Textreme, String Pattern: 16 Mains / 18 Crosses
PROS
- Good for speed, spin & precision
- Textreme material added to shaft for increased stability
- Comes strung and with a vibrational damper
CONS
- May be too light for intermediate players
- Does not come with cover
Babolat Drive Lite
Babolat Drive Lite is very user-friendly and intermediate players will find that it is a speedy racquet that accelerates fairly easily. It is suitable for juniors and intermediate players, but the beginners could also find it very appealing. The Woofer technology together with the Cortex system minimize vibrations and provide a very smooth and lively feel.
Specifications: Head Size: 100 square inches, Length: 27 inches, Strung Weight: 9.6oz, Balance: 2 points Head Heavy, Swing weight: 294 grams, Beam Width: 23.5mm / 25.5mm / 23mm.
PROS
- Comes strung at mid-range tension
- Light weight - ideal for beginners
- Technologies incorporated to increase power, sweetspot, spin and control, as well as reduce torque and vibration
CONS
- Does not come with cover
Tennis Racket For Advanced Tennis Players
The most popular picks are:
YONEX EZone DR 100 Tennis Racquet
The Yonex Ezone DR 100 provides a great blend of power and comfort for all-court play. A solid 11.1 oz. (strung) weight and head light balance combine with a solid 23/26/22mm beam taper to provide solid power with maneuverability. Many of Yonex s new tech features make the DR 100 a smooth ride.
The new Nanometric DR material provides more flexibility and resilience to the frame to provide a faster frame snapback for improved ball speed, while the Oval Pressed Shaft offers increased flex and stability for added spin and control. Not to be outdone in the comfort area, Yonex’s Dual Shut System places shock-absorbing material in the throat and side grommets and grip to reduce shock by 50% over traditional frames. Adding to the comfort that this series is known for is Quake Shut Gel, which is a unique material designed to filter out unwanted vibrations in the frame before they reach your hand.
Isometric Technology varies the depths of the grooves at the sides and tip of the frame to improve ball pocketing and shot response, resulting in a 7% larger sweet spot over traditional round-headed frames. It also produces a stronger shot response on balls hit higher on the face, just where modern players tend to make contact.
Specifications: Head Size: 100 square inches, Length: 27 inches, Strung Weight: 11.3Oz, Balance: 3 points Head Light, Swing weight: 327 grams, Beam Width: 21.5mm / 21.5mm / 21.5mm : 45-60 String Pattern: 16 x 19 .
PROS
- Comes strung - mid tension
- 50% shock reduction compared to traditional frames
- Deep grooves 7% larger sweet spot over traditional frames
CONS
- Does not come with cover
Wilson Blade 98 (16×19) Countervail Racquet – Simona Halep
Wilson Blade 98 16×19 CV Tennis Racquet is the official racquet for Simona Halep in 2019. The Blade is designed for today’s big-hitting, aggressive game and is the top-played frame on Tour. Delivering control for the attacking player, this year’s Blade is upgraded with Countervail technology to maximize a player’s energy while an all-new minimalist design features clean lines, matte finishes and laser engraving.
With the new Wilson Blade 98 16×19 Tennis Racquet, you can experience a control racquet for the modern, aggressive game. Designed for hard-hitting, aggressive players in my mind, this precision-oriented weapon will impress every player with the updates Wilson has put into the Blade Tennis Racquet line.
Specifications: Length: 27 in /68.58 cm, Head Size: 98 sq in /632 sq cm, Weight: 11.2 oz /318 gm, Balance Point: 13 in /33 cm, Head Light: 4pts, Construction: 23.5mm / 25mm / 23.5mm, Composition: Graphite/Countervail, String Pattern:16 Mains / 19 Crosses
Not all tennis players will like all racquets, and most will prefer one to another, depending on their ability and the respective strengths and weaknesses on the court. That is why testing is key, as one player’s wand is another player’s stick.
PROS
- Comes strung
- Ideal for hard-hitting players
- Carbon fiber to dampen vibration & racket technologies to increase sweetspot, dwell time on strings & control
- Customizable handle shape for personalized feel
CONS
- Does not come with cover
Serena Williams Racquet 2019 -Wilson Blade SW104Autograph Countervail
The 11.4 oz static weight racquet is definitely not a lightweight and is considered one of the most lethal of racquets when at the mercy of someone who has technique and strength to wield it. Though the Wilson blade sw104 autograph countervails swings heavier than the pro staff RF 97 autograph the racquet is indeed very good with stability, plow through and power.
This racquet though is not suitable for someone with lazy feet and a slow preparation because the 28-inch racquet is not easy to maneuver. It is not also easily controllable but that does not count as because of its full-blown power when used by someone with a wide skillset.
Specifications
Length 28 inches / 71 cm
Head Size 104 sq. inches / 671 sq. cm
Weight 11.4 oz /323 gm
Balance Point 13.4 in /34 cm
Head Light 5pts
Construction 22mm Straight Beam
Composition Countervail/ Graphite
String Pattern 18 Mains / 19 Crosses
PROS
- Official racket of Serena Williams
- More spin with less effort
- Heavy and ideal for intermediate and advanced players
CONS
- Comes unstrung
- Not for beginners
Novak Djokovic Racquet 2019 – Head Graphene 360 Speed Pro
The Head Graphene 360 Speed Pro is a classic control racquet that offers players a faster swing. This is widely enabled by the enlarged space between the cross strings of the 18 * 20 cross pattern which offers extra spin and power. The powerful racquet has also been reinforced with graphene at 3, 9, 12 o’clock positions which makes it have a thicker beam and thus giving it a crisp speedy explosive feel.
The graphene 360-speed pro is quick on the ball with serves and lets its user pick targets with ease. The good control and easy acceleration of this racquet let the user be precise with taking big swings. All in all, the 360-pro update of the Head Graphene makes it most recommendable due to blend of power and control, easy maneuverability, friendly spin, and a faster swing.
Specifications
Length 27 in. /69 cm
Head Size 100 sq. in / 645 sq cm
Weight 11.5 oz /326 gm
Balance Point 12.79 in /32 cm
Head Light 6pts
Construction 23mm / 23mm /23mm
Composition Graphene 360/Graphite
String Pattern 18 Mains / 20 Crosses
Flex Rating score: 62 Range: 0-100
Swing Weight score: 318 Range: 200-400
PROS
- Comes strung, 5 grip sizes to choose from
- Great for faster swings, control and easy acceleration
- Official racket of Novak Djokovic
CONS
- Does not come with cover
Rafael Nadal Racquet 2019 –Babolat 2019 Pure Aero Tennis Racquet
The Babolat Pure Aero is powerful and spin-friendly racquet that replaces the Aero Pure Drive. The racquet is also a great partner with its pure comfortable playing experience which is thanks to its elongated grommet holes that allow the strings to absorb more vibrations. The open and comfortable string bed also helps to bring out a comfortable experience to the racquet user.
The 2019 Pure Aero technology: AEROMODULAR TECHNOLOGY: Updated aerodynamic frame with an optimized design for increased racquet head speed. FSI SPIN: Open string pattern with oblong shaped grommets to generate more spin. CORTEX PURE FEEL: Better vibration damping thanks to new material powered by SMAC integrated in the graphite at 3 and 9 o’clock that provides an exceptional feel. CARBON PLY STABILIZER: Superior stability for increased precision thanks to a new generation of high-performance carbon fibers developed by Chomarat added in the core of the racquet.
Sensors built into its handle provide players with previously unavailable data about their game, such as power, ball impact zone, type and number of hits (forehand, backhand, service, smash), spin, endurance, and technique, while maintaining the racket’s performance.
Specifications:
Head Size:100 square inches/ 645.16 square centimeters
Length: 27 inches / 69 centimeters
Strung Weight: 11.1 Oz / 315grams
Balance: 4 points Head Light
Swing weight: 327 grams
Stiffness: 69
Beam Width: 23mm/26mm/23mm
String Pattern:16 Mains / 19 Crosses
PROS
- Strung with Babolat spiraltek
- Official racket of Rafael Nadal - redesigned and re-engineered 2019 Pure Aero
- Sensors built into handle to give player data about their game
CONS
- Does not come with cover
Andy Murray Racquet 2019 – Head Graphene Touch Radical Pro
Head has given the Radical a new design, along with the addition of Graphene Touch. The new innovative technology allows the racket to have more shock absorption, giving the player great amounts of touch throughout each stoke, without compromising power and control. The Graphene Touch Radical Pro weighs in at 10.9oz (unstrung) and offers a stable surface to strike the ball at a higher swing speed. Complimenting the weight is a dynamic 16×19 string pattern, allowing a slight amount of forgiveness essential for players taking a bigger swing out on the ball.
Additionally, our playtesters have reported the balance of the racquet felt incredible. The overall weight coupled with the way it is distributed by use of the Graphene also allows the racquet to be extremely stable feeling on contact. It retains a head light balance, allowing it to be highly maneuverable and easy to bring through the contact zone, despite the increased weight.
Specifications:
Head Size: 98 square inches / 632 square centimeters
Length: 27 inches / 69 centimeters
Strung Weight: 11.5Oz / 329 grams
Balance: 5 points Head Light
Swing weight: 335
Stiffness: 67
Beam Width: 20mm / 23mm / 21mm /
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
PROS
- Official racket of Andy Murray
- Graphene Touch - increase shock absorption
- Heavier than comparable rackets but head remains light
CONS
- Does not come with cover or strings
Kei Nishikori Racquet 2019 – Wilson Ultra 95 Countervail
The Wilson Ultra 95 Countervail unveils a new element to the Ultra line: a 95-square inch headsize. While this smaller head size reduces forgiveness, it massively helps control for players who consistently hit the sweet spot. Power Rib throat geometry enhances stability and frame stiffness for raw power, and Countervail helps reduce vibrations in the arm for increased comfort and faster recovery.
Specifications:
Head Size : 95 square inches / 612.9 square centimeters
Length : 27.25 inches / 69.22 centimetres
Strung Weight : 11.8 Oz / 334.52 grams
Balance : 5 points Head Light
Swing weight : 335
Stiffness : 68
Beam Width : 22 mm / 22 mm / 22 mm /
String Pattern : 16 Mains / 20 Crosses
PROS
- Comes strung and 5 grip sizes to choose from
- Official racket of Kei Nishikori - ideal for big-hitting baseliners
- Reduced head size - great for those who consistently hit the sweet spot
CONS
- Does not come with cover
Maria Sharapova Racquet 2019 – HEAD Graphene 360 Instinct MP
The Instinct range is used by Maria Sharapova and Tomas Berdych. This range provides the Graphene 360 technology. The most powerful racquets created by Head will surprise you as they provide exceptional comfort and effortless power.
The Instinct provides the benefit of effortless high performance and comfort to the advanced player. The secret to the incredibly easy playability lies in the specially designed cross-section, which provides more stability and leads to a bigger sweet spot for effortless power.
The new Graphene 360 technology provides greater stability and optimized energy transfer for more power, thus more ball speed. Just like the rest of the INSTINCT series, the INSTINCT MP received a gorgeous new design identity scoring huge with its asymmetrical color-blocking look of bright crystal and a dark midnight blue.
length: 27 in
Head Size: 100 sq in
Strung Weight: 11.1 oz
Balance: 4 pts. HL
Swing Weight: 320
String Pattern: 16×19
Flexibility: Flexible
Suitable NTRP: 2.0-4.5
Beam Width: 23 mm / 26 mm / 23 mm
PROS
- Official racket of Maria Sharapova and Tomas Berdych
- Cross-section for better performance and comfort
- Ideal for advanced players - increased stability, ball speed and power
CONS
- Does not come with cover
Naomi Osaka Racquet 2019 – Yonex EZONE 98 racquet
The EZONE was first launched in 2012 and it has persisted through 3 different generations offering exceptional responsive performance to the modern tennis player with softer and better ball pocketing on impact with the racquet.
The downside of this update of the EZONE DR 98 which is the EZONE 98 (305g) is that it has average control power though it offers players a firmer and effectively powerful and spin-friendly tennis game. It all depends on your preference when choosing between the softer feel of the DR and the firmer powerful response of its update -the Yonex EZONE 98.
Specifications
Length 27 in /69 cm
Head Size 98 sq in .632 sq cm
Weight 11.4 oz /323 gm
Balance Point 12.8 in /33 cm
Head Light 6pts
Construction 23mm / 24mm / 19mm /
Composition HM Graphite, Hyper MG, Nanometric DR, Quake Shut Gel Air
String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
Flex Rating score: 63 Range: 0-100
Swing Weight score: 316 Range: 200-400
PROS
- Comes strung
- Official racket of Naomi Osaka
- Softer and better ball pocketing
- Firmer hold & better power and spin
CONS
- Average control power
Roger Federer – Pro Staff RF97 Autograph Tennis Racquet
The new Wilson Pro Staff Roger Federer 97 Autograph Tuxedo Tennis Racquet paired the dress shirt with the sports jacket, and is a perfect complement to the classiest player in the history of sports – Roger Federer. This true player’s stick has a 97 square inch head, comes strung at a solid 12.6 ounces, and is a whopping 9 points headlight. With the 16×19 string pattern, you’re going to be able to really whip the head of this true player’s stick through the zone with ease, yet still, maintain plenty of plow-through.
Pro Staff Braided Graphite with Aramid: The legendary Pro Staff “feel” has been imbued in this player’s stick. The braided graphite winds around the outside of the frame, giving it the perfect balance of vibration control and flexibility. The “classic Pro Staff feel” is nearly always getting the expected action out of the frame.
The racket on this listing will come strung with Wilson Synthetic Gut Power in 16 gauge in the following colors: Black, Gold, Lime, Pink, and White
Specifications:
Head Size: 97 square inches/ 625.81 square centimetres.
Length: 27 inches / 68.58 centimetres
Strung Weight: 12.6oz / 357.2 grams
Balance: 9 points Head Light
Swing weight: 335 grams
Stiffness: 68
Beam Width: 21.5 mm / 21.5 mm / 21.5mm
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
PROS
- Comes strung
- Official racket of Roger Federer
- Easy to maneveur with plenty of plow-through
- Grip is made from premium leather
CONS
- Does not come with cover
Verdict – Which One is the Best Tennis Racket?
In a nutshell…
This article is very instrumental to any beginner or professional tennis player who wants to improve his/her gameplay in the court. It is important for one to discover his/her weak points in the court and mind you the strengths too so that one can discover what racquet to choose.
Recommended for Junior Tennis Player
For young tennis players first starting out, we recommend the Wilson US Junior Open Tennis Racket. It’s got everything you need in a tool for your child to learn how to play tennis properly
Recommended for Beginner to Intermediate Tennis Player
As for beginner tennis players, the Babolat Pure Drive 2018 is an excellent choice due to its easy maneuverability and its easy ability to wield. It is also light in weight thus becoming a major go-to.
Intermediate tennis players are most recommended to go for the Babolat Pure Drive Lite which is fairly light and powerful racquet and offers great comfort in the hand of the player.
Recommended for Advanced Tennis Player
We got two winners in this category!
We couldn’t decide between Serena William’s Wilson Blade SW104 Autograph Countervail and Roger Federer’s Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph Tuxedo Tennis Racquet!!
Both came out strongly as the topmost preferred racquets to a tennis player who wish to wield more people and dictate the play in the court.
So, it’s a Williams vs Federer game right now. Which one won for you?