Choose a tennis racquet by matching head size, weight, balance, stiffness and grip size to your level, swing style and physical needs. Beginners usually do best with a larger head, around 100 to 110 square inches, and a lighter frame, roughly 255 to 285 grams unstrung, which offer forgiveness and easy power. Intermediate players often move toward about 98 to 100 square inches and 285 to 305 grams. Advanced players frequently prefer 95 to 100 square inches and 300 grams or more for control and stability. Juniors should use shorter racquets sized for their height and age. The best racquet is the one that feels comfortable and helps you play your game, so demoing before you buy is highly recommended. This guide explains each specification, typical specs by player type, junior sizing, how to demo, arm comfort considerations and common buying mistakes.
Rulebook note: The ITF Rules of Tennis set maximum racquet dimensions, including a maximum length of 29 inches and limits on head size and string bed. Most adult racquets are about 27 inches long, well within these limits. Check the current rules if you use a specialized frame for competition.
Racquet specs by player type
| Player | Head size | Weight (unstrung) | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 100 to 110 sq in | 255 to 285 g | Even or slightly head-heavy |
| Intermediate | 98 to 100 sq in | 285 to 305 g | Even or slightly head-light |
| Advanced | 95 to 100 sq in | 300 to 320 g or more | Head-light |
| Juniors | Varies | Varies | Length of about 19 to 26 in, based on height and age |
These ranges are general guides. Many players fall between categories, and personal feel matters more than labels.
Head size
Head size affects power, forgiveness and control. Larger heads, often called oversize, have a bigger sweet spot, making off-center hits more forgiving and providing more power. Smaller heads, often called midsize or midplus, offer more control and precision but demand more accurate contact. Most modern racquets fall between about 95 and 110 square inches, with 98 to 100 being very common for intermediate and advanced players.
Weight
Heavier racquets are more stable, absorb more shock and can transmit more power when swung well, but they are harder to maneuver and can tire the arm. Lighter racquets are easier to swing and maneuver, which suits beginners, juniors and players with slower swings, but they may feel less stable against hard-hit balls. Racquet weights are often listed unstrung. Strings, grips and dampeners add weight. Choose a weight you can swing comfortably throughout a match.
Balance
Balance describes where the weight is distributed along the racquet. Head-heavy racquets place more weight toward the head, adding power, and are often combined with lighter overall weights for beginners. Head-light racquets place more weight toward the handle, improving maneuverability, and are common among advanced players with heavier frames. Even balance sits in between. Balance affects how the racquet feels at the net and on quick exchanges.
Stiffness
Stiffness, often measured with an RA rating, affects power and feel. Stiffer frames bend less on impact, which generally returns more energy to the ball and gives more power, but they can transmit more shock to the arm. More flexible frames bend more, which can feel more comfortable and give more control, but slightly less power. Players with arm issues often prefer more flexible frames combined with softer strings.
String pattern
String patterns such as 16×19 and 18×20 refer to the number of main and cross strings. Open patterns like 16×19 generally offer more spin potential and power. Dense patterns like 18×20 generally offer more control and durability. Most modern racquets use 16×19 or similar open patterns.
Grip size
Grip size refers to the circumference of the handle. Adult sizes commonly range from about 4 inches to 4 5/8 inches. A common method is to measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. A grip that is too small or too large can cause you to squeeze harder and may contribute to arm strain. If you are between sizes, many players choose the smaller size and add an overgrip.
Junior racquets
Juniors should use racquets sized to their height and age. Common lengths include 19, 21, 23, 25 and 26 inches. As a rough guide, many younger children start with 19 or 21 inches, while older juniors move to 25 or 26 inches before switching to adult frames. A quick check is whether the child can hold the racquet at their side with the tip just clearing the ground. Pairing the right racquet with modified balls and courts makes learning easier.
Step-by-step: choosing your racquet
- Assess your level and swing speed honestly.
- Note any arm issues that call for a more comfortable frame.
- Choose a head size range suited to your level.
- Pick a weight you can swing comfortably.
- Consider balance and stiffness.
- Measure your grip size.
- Demo several racquets over a few sessions.
- Choose strings and tension to fine-tune the feel.
Matching the racquet to your style
Your playing style also shapes the best racquet. Baseline players who hit with heavy topspin often like open string patterns and moderate weight for racquet speed. Players who come to the net often prefer head-light frames that are easy to maneuver on volleys. Players with fast, full swings may benefit from control-oriented frames with smaller heads, while players with shorter, compact swings often appreciate extra power from larger heads and stiffer frames. Think about how you win points and choose a racquet that supports that approach.
Demoing racquets
Many shops and clubs offer demo programs where you can try racquets before buying. Test each racquet for at least one full session, hitting groundstrokes, volleys, serves and returns. Compare how each feels for control, power, comfort and maneuverability. Try racquets with similar strings and tensions so the comparison is fair. Take notes, since racquets can blur together after several sessions.
Arm comfort
Racquet choice can affect arm comfort. Very stiff, very light or very heavy frames may increase strain for some players. Players with elbow, wrist or shoulder pain often do better with moderately weighted, more flexible frames, proper grip size and softer strings at moderate tension. Persistent pain should be assessed by a qualified professional.
New versus used racquets
Used racquets can be a good value, especially for beginners. Check for cracks, damage to the frame and bumper guard, and grip condition. Plan to restring a used racquet before playing, since old strings lose playability. Buying the same model as a backup racquet later is easier if you choose a popular, widely available frame.
Common mistakes
- Buying a racquet because a professional uses it.
- Choosing a frame too heavy to swing comfortably.
- Ignoring grip size.
- Not demoing before buying.
- Overlooking strings, which strongly affect feel.
- Using an adult racquet for a young child.
- Choosing a very stiff frame despite arm pain.
Frequently asked questions
What size racquet should a child use?
Roughly 19 to 26 inches, depending on height and age. Younger children usually start with shorter racquets.
What racquet is best for beginners?
A lighter racquet with a larger head, around 100 to 110 square inches, offers forgiveness and easy power.
Should I buy the same racquet as professionals?
Not necessarily. Professional frames are often heavier and less forgiving. Choose specs that match your own level and swing.
