By S. Dee Davis

There are tennis racquets available for all player levels with different designs, weights, and feels. Judging racquets based on their intended level, we selected the top 10 based on the following qualities:

1. Heavy enough to add a punch to shots and provide great control
2. Light enough to be easy to maneuver (and easy to arm)
3. Solid feel and response
4. Reduced vibrations
5. Produces a good spin on the ball
6. Suited for hitting balls at the baseline and volleying at the net
7. Strong, sturdy construction that maintains its quality
8. Good value for the price
9. Good length and comfortable grip

Tennis Racquets Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting a Tennis Racquet

Whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate, or an advanced tennis player, you should understand the basic principles behind tennis racquets and what makes one suited to a special kind of player. It can be daunting trying to select a tennis racquet due to the number of brands, sizes, shapes, and prices to choose from. Whenever possible, you should handle the racquet in person before making a purchase because each player operates at a different skill level and has a unique feel for the racquet.

You can judge a racquet by the size, stiffness, length, and weight of the frame.

• A large frame provides great power and is less likely to twist in your hand when you hit balls off-center. The larger the frame, the larger the sweet spot, or area of the strings where you’re least likely to feel the impact of the ball.
• A stiff frame also delivers great power and a bigger sweet spot. It helps distribute the impact of the ball across all the strings, giving you a uniform, solid-feeling response.
• The longer the racquet frame, the greater speed you’ll get when you swing it. The greater the velocity, the more power and spin you’ll get in your shots. A long racquet is also good for increased leverage and control. Racquets range from 27 to 29 inches long.
• A heavy frame, while difficult to wield for long periods without wearing out the arm, produces the greatest power. It yields a large sweet spot and also transmits fewer vibrations.

Also consider the head, or hoop, size. Racquets range from about 85 to 135 square inches.

• Beginners and intermediate players typically thrive with large-headed racquets. It’s easier to make shots even when the ball hits the racquet off-center, and you get great power due to the large sweet spot.
• Advanced players look for greater control with a small-headed racquet. Because of their advanced skill, they’re able to provide the power in the swing.

Weight and balance directly affect the unique feel of the racquet. They can either be heavier in the head or in the handle.

• Head-light racquets are preferred by most professional players because they offer the greatest maneuverability and control. Again, advanced players supply their own power, so they don’t need to rely on a heavy head to punch the shots.
• Head-heavy racquets are designed to be lighter overall without taking the weight and stability from the head. They’re still powerful, but some players complain that they don’t feel as solid as the traditionally balanced racquets. Others worry that lightweight racquets cause more tennis injuries because they transfer more vibrations through the player’s arm.

The string pattern has an effect on how the ball impacts against the racquet. Strings can be in either an open or closed pattern.

• Open string patterns feel loose and deflect the ball more upon impact, producing a great spin. However, these type of racquets require more maintenance because the strings are less durable and prone to breaking.
• Closed, or dense, string patterns produce less spin but provide greater control and durability. Look for racquets with a dense string pattern if you hit the ball hard with a topspin. You also won’t have to replace the strings often.

As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis

Featured Tennis Articles

5 Tips for Tennis Racquet Care

As you well know, a tennis racquet is your primary instrument for playing the sport, and it can be quite an investment. Some racquets cost well over $100, and you want to take proper care of them so you get the most out of them…[more]

Find Your Tennis Racket Grip Size

Getting the right grip size for your tennis racquet will make all the difference, not only with the quality of your game but also with the comfort of your hand, elbow, and arm. You don’t want the grip of your racquet to be too long…[more]

Prince EXO3 Black 100 vs. Prince EXO3 Rebel 95

Prince has developed the EXO3 series of racquets, designed for the advanced player. Two racquets, the Prince EXO3 Black 100 Tour Series and the Prince EXO3 Rebel 95, are both high-end racquets with several different factors. Let’s compare the two models to see if one has a distinct advantage… [more]

Understanding a Tennis Racquet’s Sweet Spot

A tennis racquet with a large, stiff head provides an expanded sweet spot, as you’ve probably heard several racquet manufacturers say. If you’re new to tennis, you’re probably wondering what exactly is the sweet spot, and how does it affect how the ball hits the … [more]

Related Tennis Racquet Lists

Best Women’s Tennis Racquet

Tennis is a sport that can be learned and mastered in youth and carried on for a lifetime. If you’re a woman looking for the tennis racquet that’s just right for you, then this guide may help you find what you need… [more]

By S. Dee Davis

Available for nearly $70, the Head Ti S5 Comfort Zone Tennis Racquet is perfectly suited to intermediate players seeking control and comfort. This racquet, which has a 107 square inch headsize, offers a large sweetspot. Its Comfort Zone technology dampens the vibrations by 25% to provide relief in your arm and elbow. At just 8.9 ounces, it’s very easy to wield and create a top spin with great control. On the other hand, we felt that some power was compromised due to the lightweight design. If you’re a power player, you may be better off with a slightly heavier racquet.

As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis

Prices

By S. Dee Davis

For true versatility, the Babolat E-Sense Comp Tennis Racquet is a winner. It handles shots well from the baseline and the net, and its 102-square-inch head has a great sweet spot, letting you hit balls at all angles with control. At 9.7 ounces, the racquet is slightly lightweight compared to similar racquets, but it has a comfortable grip, vivid colors, and solid feel. While the vibrations are reduced, you still get a good response from your hits, helping you improve your technique. Suitable as an all-around racquet for hitting balls at the baseline and volleying, the Babolat E-Sense Comp, priced at $69, is suited to players transitioning from beginner to more advanced levels.

As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis

Prices

By S. Dee Davis

The Babolat AeroPro Drive GT has a 100-square-inch head and long length of 27 inches, providing a satisfying pop to your swings while also offering comfort and maneuverability. It’s balanced to be head-light and gives great control no matter where you are on the court. Babolat had comfort in mind with this racquet; its Active Cortex technology gives it a smooth feel on its swings. We were satisfied with how well it produces a spin on serves and how it connects deeply with the ball even with short swings. Suited best for intermediate to advanced players, the racquet is available for $199. 

As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis

Prices

By S. Dee Davis

For the advanced player at level 4.5 or higher, this Volkl Organix 10 tennis racquet provides excellent control and a smooth response. At 10.4 ounces, the racquet isn’t so heavy that it’s difficult to maneuver, but it has enough heft to drive volleys hard over the net. Its construction of carbon nano tubes and cellulose allows it to hold up well with stability and consistent performance. You’ll appreciate how it puts a spin on shots and lets you feel the power behind them. We liked that it includes a visual aid on the sweet spot, too. As with many racquets designed for advanced players, you’ll find yourself improving your technique and game with this Volkl racquet, priced at $109.99.

As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis

Prices

By S. Dee Davis

Suited to intermediate and advanced players, the Dunlop Hotmelt 300G tennis racquet has a 98-square-inch head and long length of 27 inches. Its special, durable construction and thick throat bridge let it cut through the air quickly, absorb shocks with little vibrations, and maintain its shape over extended use. You’ll appreciate the lightweight, head-light feel that gives you extra control for generating spin on your shots. It’s highly maneuverable and produces a great spin with its open-string pattern (16×19). If you appreciate a racquet with versatility and control, you’ll love the Hotmelt, which is available for $73.99 – $178.91.

As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis

Prices

By S. Dee Davis

A sturdy racquet from Wilson, the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 Strung Tennis Racquet has a large headsize to provide a large sweetspot. You’ll definitely feel the power in your hands with this lightweight racquet. Beginner to intermediate players who desire more control in their shots will be pleased with this racquet, which ranges in price from $78.99 to $127.34. The racquet is lightweight at 9.0 ounces to slice through the air like a blade without tiring you out. Even serious tennis players appreciate its control and power, particularly with top spins.

As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis

Prices

By S. Dee Davis

If you’re a serious tennis player hoping to improve your game, then you’ll love the Prince EXO3 Hornet 100 racquet, which offers the greatest precision and accuracy in shots. The head is relatively small at 100 square inches, so you must have great technique, but this Prince racquet offers an enlarged sweet spot that is forgiving for the intermediate player. The racquet lets you feel the response so you can gauge your hits. You provide the power, and the racquet swings so quickly that it feels like it’s slicing through the air. The head light balance gives you greater maneuverability. Even if you’re an aggressive player, the Hornet 100 holds up its consistent performance and solid construction. You can find this racquet for $59.99. 

As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis

Prices

By S. Dee Davis

The Wilson Tour Slam Adult strung tennis racquet is an excellent choice for beginners with its lightweight yet powerful construction. It is also small enough to not overwhelm new tennis players. It’s not the lightest out there, but it is easy to wield and swing. The enlarged sweet spot really helps with hitting off-center shots with the same amount of power. In terms of power, you might find yourself hitting a ball outside the fence with this racquet. The only minor flaw we saw was the smooth grip, which allows the racquet to spin in your hand a bit when you hit balls anywhere but the center. For a $25 to $45 racquet, this one will give anybody with a taste for getting into tennis a great start.

As an avid golfer and tennis player for most of his life, he enjoys researching the latest in golf and tennis technology as well as analyzing his own game. He has been a writer and reviewer for a dozen years and his work has appeared in numerous publications including CBS, the San Fransisco Chronicle… See more about S. Dee Davis

Prices

Here’s a guide to the average sizes for men, women, and children/juniors.

If you’re between eighths of an inch, round down. You can “fatten” up the grip with an overgrip easily, but you can’t cut down the length of a grip as easily. If your grip size falls outside the range of the average grip size (4 1/8” to 4 5/8”), you may need to have the grip custom made, which may run you up to $15.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Featured Tennis Articles

5 Tips for Tennis Racquet Care

As you well know, a tennis racquet is your primary instrument for playing the sport, and it can be quite an investment. Some racquets cost well over $100, and you want to take proper care of them so you get the most out of them…[more]

Prince EXO3 Black 100 vs. Prince EXO3 Rebel 95

Prince has developed the EXO3 series of racquets, designed for the advanced player. Two racquets, the Prince EXO3 Black 100 Tour Series and the Prince EXO3 Rebel 95, are both high-end racquets with several different factors. Let’s compare the two models to see if one has a distinct advantage… [more]

Understanding a Tennis Racquet’s Sweet Spot

A tennis racquet with a large, stiff head provides an expanded sweet spot, as you’ve probably heard several racquet manufacturers say. If you’re new to tennis, you’re probably wondering what exactly is the sweet spot, and how does it affect how the ball hits the … [more]

Related Tennis Racquet Lists

Best Tennis Racquets

There are tennis racquets available for all player levels with different designs, weights, and feels. Judging racquets based on their intended level, we selected the top 10 based on the following qualities: Heavy enough to add a punch to shots and provide great control, Light enough to be easy to maneuver (and easy to arm)… [more]

Best Women’s Tennis Racquet

Tennis is a sport that can be learned and mastered in youth and carried on for a lifetime. If you’re a woman looking for the tennis racquet that’s just right for you, then this guide may help you find what you need… [more]

As you well know, a tennis racquet is your primary instrument for playing the sport, and it can be quite an investment. Some racquets cost well over $100, and you want to take proper care of them so you get the most out of them. Here are some basic maintenance tips to ensure the long life of your tennis racquet.

1. Don’t abuse your racquet

This seems obvious, but some people don’t seem to realize that banging or throwing their racquets can cause significant damage to the frames, compromising the integrity of the racquet. Many racquets are composed of graphite fibers that can be damaged over time if treated to shocks and bumps.

2. Replace the grip at least twice a year

As the grip is the part of the racquet you handle the most, you’ll want to keep it in good shape, for the sake of your hand and arm as much as the racquet.

3. Keep it in the case

If your racquet came with a carrying case, great! If not, it’s advisable to get one. Cases will protect your racquet in the long term much better than a backpack or gym bag (or, heaven forbid, the trunk of your car).

4. Restring your racquet regularly

Once the tension goes out of the strings, you’ll notice a marked difference in your control and power. Experts recommend restringing your racquet throughout the year, generally the same number of times per year as the number of hours per week you play. So the more regularly you practice, the more often you restring.

5. Don’t expose your racquet to extreme temperatures

If you must endure sweltering hot summers or frigid winters when you play, then get in the habit of bringing your racquet indoors with you after leaving the tennis court. Extreme temperatures can cause all sorts of problems in your racquet: warped frame, stiff or loosened strings, and so on.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Related Tennis Racquet Lists

Best Women’s Tennis Racquet

Tennis is a sport that can be learned and mastered in youth and carried on for a lifetime. If you’re a woman looking for the tennis racquet that’s just right for you, then this guide may help you find what you need… [more]

Best Tennis Racquets

There are tennis racquets available for all player levels with different designs, weights, and feels. Judging racquets based on their intended level, we selected the top 10 based on the following qualities: Heavy enough to add a punch to shots and provide great control, Light enough to be easy to maneuver (and easy to arm)… [more]

Featured Tennis Articles

Prince EXO3 Black 100 vs. Prince EXO3 Rebel 95

Prince has developed the EXO3 series of racquets, designed for the advanced player. Two racquets, the Prince EXO3 Black 100 Tour Series and the Prince EXO3 Rebel 95, are both high-end racquets with several different factors. Let’s compare the two models to see if one has a distinct advantage… [more]

Understanding a Tennis Racquet’s Sweet Spot

A tennis racquet with a large, stiff head provides an expanded sweet spot, as you’ve probably heard several racquet manufacturers say. If you’re new to tennis, you’re probably wondering what exactly is the sweet spot, and how does it affect how the ball hits the … [more]

By Brittany Rowland

Tennis is a sport that can be learned and mastered in youth and carried on for a lifetime. If you’re a woman looking for the tennis racquet that’s just right for you, then this guide may help you find what you need. Be aware of your skill level (beginner, intermediate, or advanced) as well as your particular needs on the court: power, control, maneuverability, and so on. For this top 10 list, we considered the following attributes:

1. Control
2. Construction
3. Maneuverability
4. Power
5. Durability
6. Price
7. Sweetspot size
8. Feel

Guide to Women’s Tennis Racquet
Size and Weight

The Balance between Power and Control

If you’re still new to the sport of tennis, you may be unsure about what size racquet to purchase. Depending on the racquet head size, weight, and length, the racquet will fall somewhere on the spectrum between power and control. If you’re new to the game, then you may desire power to your shots, but as you advance in skill, you’ll be able to provide the power yourself and will desire a racquet with more control.

Here’s a basic guide to help you determine the size, weight, and length of the racquet you need.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Related Women’s Tennis Racquet Lists

Best Tennis Racquets

There are tennis racquets available for all player levels with different designs, weights, and feels. Judging racquets based on their intended level, we selected the top 10 based on the following qualities: Heavy enough to add a punch to shots and provide great control, Light enough to be easy to maneuver (and easy to arm)… [more]

Featured Tennis Articles

5 Tips for Tennis Racquet Care

As you well know, a tennis racquet is your primary instrument for playing the sport, and it can be quite an investment. Some racquets cost well over $100, and you want to take proper care of them so you get the most out of them…[more]

Find Your Tennis Racket Grip Size

Getting the right grip size for your tennis racquet will make all the difference, not only with the quality of your game but also with the comfort of your hand, elbow, and arm. You don’t want the grip of your racquet to be too long…[more]

Prince EXO3 Black 100 vs. Prince EXO3 Rebel 95

Prince has developed the EXO3 series of racquets, designed for the advanced player. Two racquets, the Prince EXO3 Black 100 Tour Series and the Prince EXO3 Rebel 95, are both high-end racquets with several different factors. Let’s compare the two models to see if one has a distinct advantage… [more]

Understanding a Tennis Racquet’s Sweet Spot

A tennis racquet with a large, stiff head provides an expanded sweet spot, as you’ve probably heard several racquet manufacturers say. If you’re new to tennis, you’re probably wondering what exactly is the sweet spot, and how does it affect how the ball hits the … [more]

More Women’s Racquets

By Brittany Rowland

Ideal for beginners, the Wilson Energy Extra Large Tennis Racquet has an extra-large head and “sweetspot,” giving new players the confidence and power they need to excel on the court. Incredibly lightweight, it also provides the maneuverability needed for complex hits. For an inexpensive, all-around beginner’s racquet, this $25 Wilson Energy one fits the bill, pleasing both novices and seasoned players returning to the game after an absence.

Quick Specs

• Large sweetspot
• 112” head
• 27.5” length

Prices

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

By Brittany Rowland

In a chic pink that will stand out amid the traditionally colored tennis racquets, this Wilson Triumph tennis racquet has an extra-large head that makes it ideal for beginners. Lightweight, with a soft grip handle for comfort, it provides extra oomph to your swings. The reduced vibrations give it a good feel in the hand. And at such a low price, just $25.93, this Wilson racquet, which comes prestrung for convenience, will not disappoint.

Quick Specs

• 112” head
• 27.5” length

Prices

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

By Brittany Rowland

While the Head MicroGel Mojo Green tennis racquet does not come prestrung (it costs around $30 to $40 to have that done professionally), devoted players say it’s well worth the price. A racquet for advanced players, it possesses excellent balance and provides superb control. With a smaller head than most beginner’s racquets, it is also very maneuverable, allowing you to perform complicated swings. At $150, it’s on the pricey side, but serious tennis players looking for an easy-to-handle racquet with the required control will find it a valuable choice.

Quick Specs

• 100” head
• 27” length

Prices

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

By Brittany Rowland

Providing excellent control for beginner and intermediate players, this Head Ti S5 Comfortzone Performance tennis racquet has an enlarged sweetspot for maximizing the power of each shot and a nicely balanced head for comfort and maneuverability. For the reasonable price of $69.95, it’s a durable, all-purpose racquet perfect for practice or playing. With the extra control it provides, this Head racquet will boost players’ confidence on the court. We liked the spin it provided and the punchy power of each hit.

Quick Specs

• 27 ¾” length
• 107” head

Prices

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany