Have you decided to start playing tennis but have no idea what type of equipment to buy? Or maybe you’re ready to take your game to the next level with a better racket, but are getting confused over so many options. Not to worry, if you’re looking to find the best racket for your skill level or budget, we’ve got you covered.
We reviewed dozens of tennis rackets to identify the best of the best. We looked at features such as frame construction, length, and head size. After considering the features, prices, and Amazon ratings and reviews, we picked our 5 top rated tennis rackets.
The HEAD Ti.S6 Tennis Racket is our pick as the best overall tennis racket. With its oversized head size, a bit of extra length, and availability of multiple grip sizes, this racket offers power and reach that makes it a great option for both beginner and intermediate players.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Tennis Rackets
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Tennis Racket Overall | HEAD Ti.S6 Tennis Racket | 4.6 |
| Best Beginner Tennis Racket | HEAD Ti. Conquest Tennis Racket | 4.3 |
| Best Budget Tennis Racket | Wilson Federer Adult Tennis Racket | 4.7 |
| Best Intermediate Tennis Racket | Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 Tennis Racket | 4.5 |
| Best Kids Tennis Racket | Wilson US Open Junior Tennis Racket | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Tennis Racket Overall: HEAD Ti.S6 Tennis Racket
The HEAD Ti. S6 is a great racket for a variety of players. The oversized 115 square inch head not only provides more power, but it also increases the size of the sweet spot, which can be a bit more forgiving for players who are still working on their precision. It also has a head heavy balance which gives more control and stability, a 16×19 string pattern, and the grip comes in a variety of sizes to make sure you find your perfect fit.
The sleek titanium and graphite alloy frame makes this racket a lighter weight option at 8.9 oz, while the length of 27 ¾ inches gives players a bit more reach than a standard 27 inch racket. It’s a good mix of power and durability in a lightweight racket. It even comes prestrung and is a great racket for both beginners and those at a more intermediate level. And at under $100, this racket offers a fantastic mix of both features and value.
HEAD Ti.S6 Tennis Racket Key Features:
- Head size 112 square inches
- Grip comes in 4-1/8, 4-1/4, 4-3/8, and 4-5/8 sizes
- Length is 27 3/4″ long to provide extra reach
- Frame is constructed from lightweight titanium & graphite fiber
Best Beginner Tennis Racket: HEAD Ti. Conquest Tennis Racket
The HEAD TI. Conquest prestrung tennis racket is a great choice for beginners. It has an oversized head at 108 square inches that offers a larger sweet spot for players to hit the ball. The head light balance helps reduce vibration upon ball impact and gives added stability. And the use of Nano Titanium technology in the frame makes this racket durable and built to last.
The 27 inch length is a good length for most beginners, and the 9.7 oz weight helps give more power to player’s swings. This racket comes in a good variety of grip sizes, making it easy to find the size that fits your hand. Reviewers love the price and value for this beginner’s racket.
HEAD Ti. Conquest Tennis Racket Key Features:
- Made with Nano Titanium Technology for more stability and power
- Head size is 108 square inches
- Grip comes in 4-1/4, 4-1/2, and 4-3/8 sizes
Best Budget Tennis Racket: Wilson Federer Adult Tennis Racket
You don’t need to spend a ton of money for a good basic racket. The Wilson Federer Adult Tennis Racket is a great budget option for beginner and intermediate players. The Volcanic frame technology offers extra stability, while longer main strings provide additional power. This racket also comes with stop shock pads to reduce vibration and added comfort.
It’s a heavier racket at 11.5 oz, which gives players more power and depth, while the oversized head at 110 square inches gives a larger sweet spot area and extra forgiveness. It also includes arch technology that improves the frame and gives the string bed with stability and power. The racket comes prestrung with a 16×19 string pattern and it comes in a 4-3/8” grip size.
Wilson Federer Adult Tennis Racket Key Features:
- Head size is 110 square inches
- 4-3/8 grip size
- Length is 27.25″
- Made with Arch Technology
Best Intermediate (Tweener) Tennis Racket: Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 Tennis Racket
The Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 Tennis Racket is great for the more intermediate level players. The oversized head and power frame offer forgiveness and more power when swinging. It also has head heavy balance with gives players increased stability and momentum, but still has a lighter frame. The open string pattern of 16×20 offers spin and more power to serves and returns.
This racket gives a great combination of control and power paired with maneuverability. The slightly longer length of 27.5” gives players a bit more reach than the standard length. With all these features, the racket is a solid choice for those advancing beginner and intermediate players.
Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 Tennis Racket Key Features:
- Head size is 110 square inches
- Grip comes in 4-1/8, 4-1/4, 4-1/3, and 4-3/8 sizes
- Length is 27.5″
- Open string pattern at 16×20
Best Kids Tennis Racket: Wilson US Open Junior Tennis Racket
The Wilson US Open Junior Tennis Racket is a great choice for young players. The aluminum frame is lightweight yet durable, and is easy for kids to swing. This racket comes in 19, 21, 23, and 25 inch lengths that makes it a smart option for a variety of ages and heights. The 19 inch long racket is great for shorter or younger kids, while the 25 inch option is great for 9-10 year olds who are 54-59 inches tall.
Reviewers say this racket is a great value and that their kids love it. They also say that they notice many kids in tennis classes and camps use this racket, and it seems to be a very popular choice among young players. It comes in several colors and is perfect for beginners. And at this price, it’s a great option for kids who may not be the most careful with their toys or sporting equipment.
Wilson US Open Junior Tennis Racket Key Features:
- Offers lengths from 19-25″ for different ages and heights
- Lightweight frame
- Great for beginners
Who Should Buy a Tennis Racket
Anyone who is interested in playing tennis should buy a tennis racket. Beginners or very casual players should look for power or tweener rackets. There’s no need to purchase an extremely expensive racket right away since it won’t make a huge difference in your game when you’re just learning. Focus on growing your skills, and then move up to the higher end rackets. You can check out the answers in the FAQ section to help determine which racket will fit you best.
Intermediate to advanced players will want to pick a racket that gives them power or control according to their style of play. While tweener rackets are a great option for the intermediate player, the best thing to do is to look for qualities you want in a tennis racket. You can learn more about the different styles of rackets in the features or FAQ sections below.
Too cold or prefer to exercise at home? You may want to check out The Best Home Workout Equipment.
Important Features to Consider
A tennis racket has a few important features you’ll need to look at. Here’s what to consider when selecting a tennis racket:
- Head Size: A tennis racket’s head size is the area where the strings are attached, and is measured in square inches. Midsize rackets are typically 80-94 square inches, midplus size is 95-105 square inches and oversized is over 105 square inches. The smaller head sizes give better control, while oversized give players more power and increases the size of the racket’s sweet spot. The right head size is a personal preference, but beginner players may like an oversized head size that offer a larger surface to hit the ball.
- Length: Adult tennis rackets range from 27-29 inches in length. The standard size is 27 inches and is the most popular size offered by brands. Longer rackets will offer players more reach to hit the ball and increased leverage to hit with more power, however they can be harder to maneuver than shorter rackets.
- Grip Size: The grip size is the circumference around the tennis rackets handle. They come in a variety of sizes and should fit in your hand comfortably. You can use the methods listed below in the FAQ section to figure out your grip size.
- Weight: Tennis rackets come in a variety of weights. A lighter racket gives more maneuverability, easier access to spin, and tends to be more comfortable, however generally they don’t provide as much power. Heavier rackets provide more power and stability and absorb more shock, but if they’re too heavy they can lead to discomfort and arm pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there different types of tennis rackets?
There are three main types of adult tennis rackets. The first is for professional and advanced players called a Control or Player’s Racket. The Control Racket has a smaller head that is usually 85-91 square inches and tends to be in the shorter 27 inch length range. These rackets give players less power but more control over their swings and higher accuracy. They also tend to be heavier than other rackets which offers stability and shock reduction.
The second type of racket is the Power Racket. This racket is best for beginners or casual players. They are typically lighter in weight and have an oversized head which makes it easier to hit the ball. They have a stiff frame and lightweight construction which makes it easier to swing. They can be anywhere in the 27-29 inch length range.
The third type of racket is the Intermediate, or Tweener Racket. Not actually meant for “tweens” in the age sense, this racket is between the Power and Control Rackets. They are great all around rackets. They have a nice balance of both power and control and are good options for intermediate players or advancing beginners. The head size is usually between 98-104 square inches and the length tends to be around 27 inches.
There’s also a Junior Racket category that is smaller in size and made for kids.
What is grip size in tennis and how do I determine my tennis grip size?
The grip size is the circumference of the handle and is usually between 4-1/8 and 4-5/8 inches. You’ll want to find to find a grip size that fits your hand properly. If the grip is too small it can add pressure to your wrist, but if it’s too large you can strain your hand muscles. You want to buy the grip size that is comfortable and prevents unnecessary stress on your body.
When holding a racket in your dominant hand, you should be able to fit the index finger of your other hand in between your ring finger and your palm, without any extra space. If there is extra space then the grip size is too large, but if your finger won’t fit then the grip size is too small. You can also measure your grip size with a ruler. Open your hand with fingers extended but touching. Line up the bottom of the ruler with your bottom lateral palm crease and measure to the tip of your ring finger. That measurement in inches will be your grip size.
If you’re in between grip sizes, it’s best to go with the slightly smaller size and add overgrip tape to increase the circumference to fit your hand.
How much does a decent tennis racket cost?
Tennis rackets range all over from low $20s for a beginner or lower end racket, and go into the hundreds for high end professional style rackets. So why the big difference? Materials, quality, technology, and pro endorsements can all affect pricing. Frame material such as aluminum is more affordable while graphite is more expensive to use in the products. A racket’s design can also be simple or more complex which will affect the cost. Technology such as v-matrix which is a concave mold that is used when creating the racket or stop shock sleeves which are pieces of plastic that provide a bit of reduction in vibration can also bump up the cost of rackets.
If you’re a new player or just like to play for fun, a lower cost option is fine. If you’re intermediate or advanced player, a better racket can make a difference in your game and you’ll want to make sure the racket you buy has the features you’re looking for.
What are the sizes of tennis rackets?
Tennis rackets are measured in several ways. First is length, with adult sizes ranging from 27-29 inches. Second is head size which is measured in square inches and divided into midsize, midplus, and oversized rackets. Midsize rackets are typically 80-94 square inches, midplus size is 95-105 square inches, and oversize is 105+ square inches. Grip size is also used to measure tennis rackets and is between 4-1/8 and 4-5/8. You can use the ways listed above to find your grip size.
For kids and teens, rackets start at 19 inches long and increase up to adult 27 inches. It’s best to go by a child’s height to find the right size racket. Generally, kids under 46 inches tall should start with a 19 or 21 inch racket, a child who is 47-53 inches tall should go with a 23 inch racket, and kids 54-59 inches tall should be fine with a 25 inch racket. Kids over 60 inches tall can usually use an adult length 27 inch racket. You’ll just want to check the weight to make sure the racket isn’t too heavy for them.
Other Tennis Rackets We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other tennis rackets. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best tennis rackets list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Beginner Tennis Rackets
- Intermediate (Tweener) Tennis Rackets
- Budget Tennis Rackets
- Kids Tennis Rackets
Beginner Tennis Rackets
HEAD Geo Speed Recreational Tennis Racket
Great for a wide range of players, this racket provides players with power, control, and stability.
Key Features:
- Oversized head size of 105 square inches provides more power and a larger sweet spot
- Racket features Geo Power Technology with a geometrically optimized shaft for extra control
- Frame Weight is 10.4 oz
- Length: 27.5 inches
- Grip comes in 4-1/4, 4-1/2, and 4-3/8 sizes
Cost: $60
HEAD Ti. Instinct Supreme Tennis Racket
At 109 square inches, this racket has an oversized head that provides a larger sweet spot and reduces vibration when hitting the ball.
Key Features:
- Made with Nano Titanium technology
- Head size: 109 square inches
- Grip comes in 4-1/4 and 4-1/8 sizes
- Length is 27″
Cost: $39
Oppum Adult Carbon Fiber Light Weight Tennis Racket
This lightweight racket is an affordable option that is great for beginners and comes with a carrying bag for easy transportation.
Key Features:
- Made from carbon fiber and aluminum metal with a wooden handle
- Head size: 110 square inches
- Grip size is 4-3/8
- Great for beginners
Cost: $37
Wilson Energy XL Tennis Racket
Another great options for beginners who are looking for a larger head size, this racket provides more power and extra reach and overage with a bit of extra length.
Key Features:
- V-Matrix Technology increases size of sweet spot for more power
- Head size: 112 square inches
- 4-3/8 grip size
- Strung weight is 10.3 oz
- Length is 27.5″
Cost: $29
Wilson Zero Strung Performance Tennis Racket
The Wilson Zero Strung Performance tennis rackets comes with Kompact Center technology, Kountour Yoke stiffness, and Karophite Black construction for better control, maneuverability, and stability.
Key Features:
- Oversized head size is 118 square inches that maximizes sweet spot
- Length is 27.5″
- Grip comes in 4-1/4, 4-1/2, and 4-3/8 sizes
Intermediate (Tweener) Tennis Rackets
Babolat 2019 Boost D Tennis Racket With Cover
This racket is great for both beginner and intermediate players. At 27 inches long with a 16×19 pattern, this racket offers players great spin and control for their game.
Key Features:
- Head size is 105 square inches
- Carbon fibre frame with Babolat SpiralTex synthetic gut strings
- Cover is slightly padded and comes with a shoulder strap for easy carrying
- The grip comes in multiple sizes: 4 even, 4-1/8, 4-1/4, 4-1/2, 4-3/8
Cost: $99
HEAD MicroGel Radical Tennis Racket
The Head MicroGel Radical Tennis Racquet distributes ball impact around the frame and provides power and flexibility.
Key Features:
- String pattern is 18×20
- Head Size is 98 square inches
- Grip comes in 4-1/8, 4-1/4, 4-1/2, 4-3/8, and 4-5/8 sizes
Cost: $90
Wilson Blade Team Tennis Racket
This racket is based on the Blade performance frames with a thinner beam construction that adds control.
Key Features:
- Design inspired by Blade performance franchise
- Thinner construction gives more control and precision
- Head size 99 square inches
- Racket is prestrung with Wilson Sensation 16L/1.25
- Grip comes in 4-1/8, 4-1/4, and 4-3/8 sizes
Cost: $92
The Wilson Prime tennis racket provides players with Arch Technology that gives the strings enhanced power and stability.
Key Features:
- Extra comfort on grip
- Head size is 103 square inches
- Grip comes in 4-1/4 and 4-3/8 sizes
Cost: $49
Wilson Pro Staff Team Tennis Racket
Similar to the Pro Staff performance frames, this racket has a larger headsize which gives players more forgiveness and stability.
Key Features:
- Comes pre-strung with Wilson Sensation string for more playability and comfort
- Head size is 100 square inches
- Length is 27″
- Grip comes in 4-1/8, 4-1/4, and 4-3/8 sizes
Budget Tennis Rackets
Wilson Tour Slam Adult Tennis Racket
If you’re looking for power and spin in your game, the longer length and larger head makes this racket a great choice.
Key Features:
- Made with volcanic frame technology for stability and power
- Power Strings provide additional power
- Head size: 112 square inches
- Grip comes in 4-1/4, 4-1/2, and 4-3/8 sizes
- Length is 27.5″
Cost: $30
Wilson Tour Slam Lite Tennis Racket
The Wilson Tour Slam Lite racket is a great beginner racket that provides comfort and power in a lightweight frame.
Key Features:
- Features Power String bridge technology for extra power and spin on your swings
- Head size: 112 square inches
- Grip size is 4-3/8
- Length is 27.5″
Cost: $27
This tennis racket gives players many features including power, stability, and forgiveness if you miss the sweet spot, all with a great price.
Key Features:
- V-matrix technology gives players a larger sweet spot
- Head size: 112 square inches
- 4-1/4 grip size
- 16×19 string pattern
- Length is 27.5″
Kids Tennis Rackets
Babolat Nadal 26 Junior Tennis Racket
This kid’s size racket is a replica of Rafael Nadal’s Pure Aero racket and is great for kids who are about 5 feet tall.
Key Features:
- Aluminum frame
- Great for kids ages 9-12
- Weight is 8.6 oz
- Length is 26″
Cost: $35
HEAD Instinct Kids Tennis Racket
The HEAD Instinct Kids Racket is made from aluminum and offers a head light balance to give extra stability when swinging and reduces vibrations.
Key Features:
- Head size 98 square inches
- Weight is 7.6 oz
- Available in 21″, 23″, and 25″ lengths
Cost: $24
This beginner kids racket comes in a range of lengths and are great for kids ages 4-10.
Key Features:
- Aluminum frame with o-beam construction for a long lasting racket
- Head size 107 square inches
- Weight is 6.3 oz
- Available in 19″, 21″, 23″, and 25″ lengths
Cost: $19
Hello Kitty Sports Junior Tennis Racket
This super cute Hello Kitty tennis racket is super cute and great for beginner players who love pink!
Key Features:
- Hello Kitty bow pattern on strings and cute pink pearl paint
- 25″ in length
Cost: $18
Street Tennis Club Tennis Racket for Kids
A small grip and multiple lengths make this racket a great choice for a kids at a variety of ages.
Key Features:
- Aluminum frame makes this racket durable yet lightweight
- Available in 17″, 19″, and 21″ lengths
Cost: $23
Wilson Junior Burn Pink Tennis Racket
This lightweight aluminum kids racket comes in several lengths and is great for kids and teens.
Key Features:
- Aluminum frame makes this racket durable yet lightweight
- Available in 19″, 21″, 23″, and 25″ lengths
- Great for kids who are beginner or intermediate
Cost: $30
This top quality aluminum kids racket is great for beginners and is lightweight to easily swing.
Key Features:
- Head size is 65 square inches
- Length is 17″
- String pattern 14×16
Cost: $19
