Best Tennis Racquet 2023

It can be challenging to find the best tennis racquet at times since there are so many sizes to choose from, each serving a different purpose depending on your experience level.

For example, Wilson recommends an "oversized" racquet for a beginner as the larger head should help generate power. However, more experienced players may look toward racquets with smaller heads for a little more control.

Taking this into account, we've put together a list of our top picks, much like our list of the best tennis shoes, based on price, reviews, and any features that set these racquets apart from the competition, no matter your experience level.

Whether you're after something relatively inexpensive, like this HEAD Ti. Reward, to get you started, or you're looking for something designed for experienced players, like this YONEX VCORE 95, then we've got you covered right here.

Stick around as well because we've answered some of the most commonly asked questions surrounding racquets to help you come to an informed decision on which will be best for your playstyle. Before that though, here's our list of top tennis racquets...

Best tennis racquet

1. HEAD MicroGel Radical MP
2. Wilson Triad Five
3. Babolat Pure Strike
4. YONEX VCORE 95
5. HEAD Ti. Reward

Credit: HEAD

1. HEAD MicroGel Radical MP

Best tennis racquet overall

If you're seeking a versatile racquet to elevate every aspect of your game, this HEAD Microgel Radica racquet stands out as an excellent choice.

First and foremost, it boasts HEAD's cutting-edge MicroGel technology, which, upon impact, efficiently disperses energy across the frame, delivering a rock-solid sensation in the palm of your hand.

Furthermore, it has been crafted from a graphite composite which excels at absorbing shock upon impact, affording you enhanced control when playing near the net.

As a result, the HEAD Microgel Radical is a top-notch, well-rounded choice, equipped with all the essential features to give you a competitive edge on the tennis court.

Credit: Wilson

2. Wilson Triad Five

Best tennis racquet for beginners

For beginners, it's often suggested to opt for a more lightweight option, such as this Wilson Triad Five racquet, a top-tier option if you're just starting out.

Wilson promotes the idea that concentrating the weight towards the head rather than the handle can enhance your ability to generate more power, even with the racquet's lightweight and arm-friendly design.

Additionally, this racquet incorporates Wilson's Iso-Zorb technology, acting as a cushioning mechanism between the hoop and the handle. This feature aids in dampening vibrations and ultimately improves comfort and control.

It's also noteworthy that Wilson specifically recommends the Triad Five for beginners. Therefore, we believe it's a strong contender worth considering and a valuable addition to our list.

Credit: Babolat

3. Babolat Pure Strike

Best tennis racquet for power

The Babolat Pure Strike lives up to its name, tailored to meet the demands of assertive shot-makers and aggressive hitters who place a premium on precision, especially when delivering potent shots down the court.

A pivotal element that contributes to this heightened control is the inclusion of the cutting-edge C² Pure Feel technology. This innovative feature absorbs vibrations, culminating in a more robust and seamless connection between the player and the racquet.

Furthermore, the Control Frame amplifies this attribute by melding the steadiness of a square beam with the agility of an elliptical beam structure. This ensures that control remains unswerving even when executing forceful strokes.

In essence, the Babolat Pure Strike is an exceptionally advanced equipment choice that can help you unlock your power potential, making it an alluring option for those seeking a new racquet.

Credit: YONEX

4. YONEX VCORE 95

Best tennis racquet for spin

YONEX stands as a prominent authority in the realm of tennis, and its VCORE 95 racquet serves as a prime embodiment of the brand's expertise.

At its core, the VCORE 95 boasts YONEX's revolutionary ISOMETRICTM technology, an innovation that amplifies the racquet's sweet spot. This enlarged sweet spot not only imparts superior control but also instills a profound sense of confidence when it comes to applying spin to your shots.

Furthermore, this exceptional racquet features innovative Aero Trenches - a series of strategically positioned grooves designed to minimise air resistance. The outcome? Remarkably faster head speeds, which, in turn, unlock the true potential for generating exceptional spin on your shots.

So, whether you are a seasoned spin virtuoso or an aspiring player yearning to elevate your spin game, the VCORE 95 emerges as an outstanding choice for fulfilling your tennis needs.

Credit: HEAD

5. HEAD Ti. Reward

Best budget tennis racquet

Buying a tennis racquet can often be expensive; however, the HEAD Ti. Reward is an exception, providing remarkable value at a relatively inexpensive price due to HEAD's impressive engineering.

Boasting a Nano Titanium construction, this racquet effectively reduces weight and offers a Contour Cushion Grip to ensure lasting comfort during play.

Also, the racquet's "oversized" head makes it a suitable choice for beginners in tennis who seek a budget-friendly option to dip their toes into the sport.

With its combination of lower cost and advanced engineering, the HEAD Ti. Reward is unquestionably worth considering if you're looking for an economical yet high-quality option to kickstart your tennis journey

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

With so many tennis racquets available, you may have a few questions about what makes each of them stand out. Don't worry though because we've answered some of the most common queries right here.

How much should you spend on a tennis racquet?

The amount you should spend on a tennis racquet depends on various factors such as your skill level, playing style, and budget.

If you are a beginner or an intermediate player, you may want to look at the budget to mid-range options to start with. These racquets are typically lightweight and have a larger sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball. As you improve your skills, you may want to invest in a higher-quality racquet that can provide more control and power.

For advanced players, a high-end tennis racquet can cost well into triple digits. These racquets are designed for professional players and offer advanced features such as a more aerodynamic frame, a smaller sweet spot, and a higher level of control and power.

Ultimately, the amount you should spend on a tennis racquet will depend on your personal preferences and budget. It is important to try out different racquets before making a purchase to ensure that you find one that feels comfortable and suits your playing style.

What size tennis racquet should you get?

According to Wilson, the answer to this question depends on your experience level.

As a beginner, it's widely recommended you opt for a lighter racquet with a larger head. These are often known as "oversized" racquets and usually feature 105" or larger heads.

As you begin to gain experience, it may be worth considering going for something slightly heavier with a smaller head size to improve your control over the racquet.

"Mid-plus" racquets tend to be the perfect middle-ground for players with some experience, but not enough to make the full jump to "mid-size".

How do you regrip a tennis racquet?

Begin by removing the rubber collar then unwrap your old grip and wipe away any residue before applying the new one.

Next, unravel your new grip and remove the sticky backing. Starting at the butt of your racquet, wind the grip around your handle, making sure you slightly overlap with the previous spiral to ensure you don't leave any gaps.

When you reach the top, simply cut away the excess, add the finishing tape and your rubber collar to hold it in place, and your racquet should be good to go.

What size grip do you need for your tennis racquet?

Grip size is another important facet to consider when choosing the perfect tennis racquet because going for one that's too small can cause you to overcompensate by using your arm muscles to keep the racquet in place.

To determine what size is right for you, use a ruler or tape to measure from the bottom lateral crease on the palm of your hand to the tip of your ring finger.

Match this measurement, which in adults is usually around 4", to the size of the grip. If you're in doubt, it's often recommended to go for a smaller size.

When should you replace your tennis racquet?

An obvious way to tell if you need to replace your tennis racquet is if you notice any visible cracks in the frame.

However, you may still need a new one if you begin to notice a drop-off in performance. This is most likely due to the graphite fibres and resin bending and loosening to the point where your racquet loses its stiffness.

Restringing your racquet is one way to extend its lifespan, but the process can actually lead to the frame deforming at times. That said, check out our guide on stringing a tennis racquet if you're interested in giving it a try.

Ultimately, there's no set rule as to when you need to replace your racquet. However, USTA has found that generally speaking, you'll need a new racquet every two years if you play two or more times a week consistently.

How do you maintain a tennis racquet?

To maintain a tennis racquet, it's important to keep it clean first and foremost. After each match or practice session, wipe down the racquet with a damp cloth to remove any dirt, sweat, or debris that may have accumulated on the frame and strings. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents though, as they could damage the racquet.

What's more, store your racquet in a tennis bag or case when not in use. This will shield it from dust, moisture, and potential damage. Avoid leaving it in extreme temperatures as well, such as a hot car or freezing cold conditions.

You'll also need to maintain the strings and grip on occasion. If your strings become loose or break, consider restringing the racquet, then consider regripping your racquet if you notice it losing its grip.

On that note, inspect your racquet periodically for any signs of damage, such as cracks or dents on the frame. If you notice any significant damage, it's advisable to consult a professional or replace the racquet if necessary.

By following these maintenance practices, you may be able to extend the lifespan of your tennis racquet and ensure optimal performance on the court for multiple years.

What does the mass and swing weight of a tennis racquet mean?

Mass is often referred to as the strung weight or stationary weight of a racquet, i.e. the total weight of the racquet when strung and laying still. The swing weight of the racquet then refers to how heavy the racquet feels when you swing it.

Generally speaking, the more weight added to the head of the racquet, the higher the swing weight will be, and vice versa.