There’s no single “best racket” for everyone. From weight to strings, everything you need to choose a racket for your level.
The right racket makes the game easier; the wrong one slows your progress and can strain your elbow and shoulder. We don’t recommend a single model in this guide, because there is no best racket for everyone. Instead, we explain a racket’s characteristics and how they affect your game.
First, ask yourself
- What’s my level? (Beginner, intermediate, advanced)
- Are my strokes short and controlled, or long and fast?
- How much do I play each week?
- Do I have any sensitivity in my arm, elbow or shoulder?
1. Weight
Adult rackets weigh roughly 255–320 grams unstrung.
| Weight (unstrung) | Characteristics | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| 255–280 g | Light, easy to manoeuvre, less tiring | Beginners, juniors, players with short swings |
| 280–300 g | A middle ground between manoeuvrability and stability | Improving and intermediate players |
| 300–320 g | More stable, absorbs impact better, needs more strength | Players with established technique and long swings |
A light racket is easy to use but gets knocked around more by hard-hit balls. A heavy racket is more stable but harder to control when you’re tired. The weight should never be more than you can fully control.
2. Head size
Head size is measured in square inches (in²). The common range is 95–110 in² (about 613–710 cm²).
- Large head (104 in² and above): A bigger “sweet spot”, more forgiving on off-centre hits, more power. Suitable for beginners.
- Mid head (98–102 in²): A balance of power and control. Most improving players choose this range.
- Small head (95–97 in²): More control, less margin for error. For advanced players with consistent strokes.
3. Grip (handle) size
Handle thickness is shown as L0–L5 or 0–5 in Europe and in inches in the US. The wrong grip reduces control and strains the arm. For how to measure and a size chart, see racket measurements and grip sizes. If you’re between two sizes, it’s easier to choose the smaller one and build it up with an overgrip than to make a larger one thinner.
4. Balance
Balance shows how the weight is distributed along the racket.
- Head heavy: Weight towards the head; adds power to your shots. Common in light rackets.
- Even balance: A middle ground between power and manoeuvrability.
- Head light: Weight towards the handle; quick to manoeuvre, comfortable for volleys and net players. Common in heavy rackets.
For a beginner, a light racket that is slightly head heavy or evenly balanced is usually a good start.
5. Length
The standard length of adult rackets is 27 inches (68.6 cm). Under the rules a racket can be at most 29 inches. Extended (27.5-inch) rackets give more reach and serve power but are harder to manoeuvre. Junior rackets are much shorter, depending on height; see choosing a junior racket.
6. Strings and tension
Types of string
| Type | Feel | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic (nylon) | Balanced, affordable | Beginners |
| Multifilament | Soft, comfortable, kinder to the arm | Players looking for comfort, those with elbow sensitivity |
| Polyester | Stiff, control and spin | Advanced players with long, hard swings |
| Natural gut | Very comfortable, lively | Players who want comfort and feel and have the budget |
Polyester strings are usually too stiff for beginners and can tire the arm.
Tension
The manufacturer’s recommended tension range is printed on the racket. The general rule: lower tension gives more power and comfort, higher tension gives more control. At first, the middle of the recommended range is a safe choice.
Summary by level
| Level | Weight | Head | Balance | Strings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 255–285 g | 102–110 in² | Even / slightly head heavy | Synthetic or multifilament |
| Intermediate | 280–305 g | 98–102 in² | Even | Multifilament or hybrid |
| Advanced | 300–320 g | 95–100 in² | Head light | Polyester or hybrid, by preference |
This table is a starting point, not a rule. Your build, playing style and injury history can change the choice.
Before you buy
- If possible, try a few different rackets on court; swinging one in a shop isn’t enough.
- Ask your coach to watch your strokes and give an opinion.
- If you have arm pain, choose a more flexible frame and soft strings.
- The racket “the pros use” isn’t always the right racket for you.