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Top 10 Best Tennis Racquets in 2018 – Buyer’s Guide

The quality, competitiveness, and speed of your tennis game is only as good as the racquet with which you choose to play. You can find countless racquets for sale on the market today. But how can you really know that you are getting the best tennis racquet that will better your chances of a win every time you hit the court? Discover which top 10 models are being called the best tennis racquet choices available today to decide which one will improve your game and make you a formidable opponent in every match.

Table of Contents

Tennis Racquet Comparison

Brand ModelWeightString Pattern 
Babolat Pure Strike 100 Tennis Racquet
Editor's Choice
10.2 ounces(unstrung) 16×19

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Prince Warrior 100 ESP
Editor's budget Choice
10.2 oz/10.7 oz(strung) 14×16

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Head YouTek IG Prestige Pro – Unstrung
Editor's Deluxe Choice
11.5 ounces16×19

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Wilson Six.One 95S Spin Effect10.8 ounces16×18

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Babolet Pure Control Tour11.8 ounces16×20

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Landson LS-302 Aluminum PU Overgrip12 ouncesunspecified

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Babolet Pure Drive (25) Junior8.5 ounces16×19

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Head 2013 YouTek Graphene Instinct PWR7.9 ounces16×19

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Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph12.6 ounces16×19

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Babolet Nadal 25 Junior12.6 ounces16×18

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The Top 10 Best Tennis Racquet Reviews 2018

Babolat Pure Strike 100 Tennis Racquet

babolat-pure-strike-100-tennis-racquet(Editor’s Choice) – The Babolet Pure Strike 100 tennis racquet is designed for competitive and fast-paced play in mind. With its 16×19 string pattern, the racquet delivers the spin and control you want with every hit. It also features a hybrid frame, combining square and elliptical shaping that gives you the response you want.

It also is lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for both amateur and professional competition. Priced at around the $100 mark, this tennis racquet is perfect for people just learning the game or players who want to spare their budget while still enjoying their favorite sport.

The major drawback of the Babolet Pure Strike 100 is that it does not come with its own tennis racquet cover. You must purchase the cover separately. Its frame also can be prone to denting with prolonged use.
Pros
  • Affordable price
  • Hybrid frame
  • Lightweight for easy handling
Cons
  • No cover included with racquet
  • Frame can dent after prolonged use

The final verdict for the Babolet Pure Strike 100 is that it is the ideal frame for tennis players who want a fast and lightweight frame that gives them the speed and response they need to win. It may not be perfect for players who prefer a racquet with a sturdier frame or heavier weight.

Prince Warrior 100 ESP

prince-warrior-100-esp(Editor’s Budget Choice) – The Prince Warrior 100 ESP tennis racquet is crafted for tennis players of all skill levels. With its tight 14×16 string pattern, this racquet is designed to spin the ball and give you the delivery that you look for with each serve. It also improves your return response with its lightweight frame and six-point head design.

This racquet also comes pre-strung for your convenience so you can begin using it right away. It comes in a sporty black and red color design that gives you the confidence to play your best.

The major drawback with the Prince Warrior 100 ESP tennis racquet is that it does not come with its own cover. You must shop for and buy a cover that fits this tennis racquet. It also comes pre-strung, which can be a disadvantage to players who prefer to string their racquets themselves.
Pros
  • Lightweight frame for fast play
  • 6-point head for better return
  • Sporty design and color scheme
Cons
  • Pre-strung rather than unstrung for customization
  • Does not come with a cover

The final verdict for the Prince Warrior 100 ESP tennis racquet is that is a great selection for players who prefer a pre-strung racquet or one that has a tight string pattern. It may not be ideal for people who prefer to string their own racquets.

Head YouTek IG Prestige Pro – Unstrung

head-youtek-ig-prestige-pro(Editor’s Deluxe Choice) – Head’s YouTek IG Prestige Pro unstrung tennis racquet is one of the more luxurious tennis racquets on the market that lives up to its opulent price tag. With its 98 inch head size and light 11.5 ounce weight, this racquet is easy to handle and gives you the speed and performance you want when you are out on the court.

It also is made from the newest materials on the market for tennis racquet construction and features innovative designs that put it ahead of its tennis racquet counterparts. This racquet comes in a sporty gold and red color combination that is sure to get you noticed each time you take on a match.

The major drawback of the Head YouTek IG Prestige Pro tennis racquet is that it does not come with a cover. For the price tag, which is above the $600 mark, buyers may assume that they are getting a cover with their racquets. The price itself also may be a turnoff for even the most die-hard of tennis enthusiasts.
Pros
  • Innovative design and materials
  • Lightweight frame
  • Sporty color combination
Cons
  • Pricier than most other racquets on the market
  • No cover included for the price
  • Unstrung

The final verdict for Head’s YouTek IG Prestige Pro unstrung tennis racquet is that it can be the perfect racquet for players who prefer to use the newest and most innovative racquets available today. The price tag and the exclusion of a cover may keep some players away from this racquet, however.

Wilson Six.One 95S Spin Effect

wilson-six-one-95s-spin-effectWilson has long been a name associated with top quality gear. This brand does not disappoint with its Six.One 95S Spin Effect tennis racquet. With its tight 16×18 string pattern, this racquet puts the perfect spin on the ball each time you serve and return. It also lets the ball drop faster, giving the effect that the tennis court is longer than it actually is.

The racquet likewise comes with the brand’s unique Amplifeel technology, which reduces the vibration you feel in your hand as you play. This innovation gives you more control and power during your match.

The major drawback with the Wilson Six.One 95S Spin Effect tennis racquet is that it does not come with a cover, forcing you to buy one separately if you need a cover for your racquet. It also comes unstrung, which can delay your game as you have to string the racquet yourself.
Pros
  • Amplifeel technology for more control and power
  • Tight 16×18 string pattern
  • Lightweight design and dimensions
Cons
  • No cover included with racquet purchase
  • Unstrung

The final verdict for the Wilson Six.One 95S Spin Effect tennis racquet is that it is the perfect choice for players who want fast spin and better control in their game. It is not a great selection for people who want the convenience of a cover or a pre-strung racquet.

Babolet Pure Control Tour

babolet-pure-control-tourBabolet’s Pure Control Tour tennis racquet may look simplistic and unassuming. However, it is actually one of the best racquets on the market for professional play. Featuring a lightweight frame that weighs under 12 ounces, the racquet gives you the utmost control with every swing.

It also features a head-light balance that often cannot be found in other racquets for sale today. Babolet also will tailor the string pattern and weight of the racquet to your liking upon request.

As with many other racquets for sale today, however, the Babolet Pure Control Tour tennis racquet does not come with its own cover and compels you to buy this accessory at your own expense. It also has a higher price tag than other racquets for sale right now.
Pros
  • Simplistic yet powerful design
  • Lightweight frame for more control
  • Head-light balance
Cons
  • No included cover
  • Higher price tag

The final verdict for Babolet’s Pure Control Tour tennis racquet is that it is a great selection for people who play in the collegiate or professional rounds. It may not be a great choice for beginner’s or people on a tighter budget.

Landson LS-302 Aluminum PU Overgrip

landson-ls-302-aluminum-pu-overgrip-tennis-racquetLandson’s LS-302 aluminum PU Overgrip tennis racquet is an affordable yet powerful tennis racquet designed for tennis players of all skill levels. With its oversized head and lightweight handle, it gives you maximum power while you play and also gives you better control and feel for the ball.

The tennis racquet likewise features No Shox technology, which reduces vibration and make the racquet easier to handle. It comes in a bright red design that looks sporty and appealing.

The major drawback of the Landson LS-302 aluminum PU overgrip tennis racquet is that it comes with no cover, which is another expense added to a player’s budget. The racquet also comes unstrung, which delays the time before you can use it to play.
Pros
  • No Shox technology to reduce vibrations
  • Oversized head for maximum power
  • Affordable price
Cons
  • No cover
  • Unstrung

The final verdict for Landson’s LS-302 aluminum PU overgrip tennis racquet is that it is a good choice for amateur players, such as those in high school or in amateur leagues, who want to learn better control without overspending their budgets. It may not be ideal for players who prefer a more durable racquet or one that comes strung and ready to use.

Babolet Pure Drive (25) Junior

babolat-pure-drive-25-junior-tennis-racquetTennis is a great sport for competitors of all ages, which is why it may be a wise idea to know what junior racquets make the mark in today’s junior competitor market. Babolet makes it easy for amateurs to learn how to play tennis like a pro with its Pure Drive (25) Junior tennis racquet.

This racquet features a tight 16×19 string pattern and weighs only 8.5 ounces. It comes in fun colors like hot pink that appeals to the younger player who wants a racquet that teaches the art of control, power, and spin.

The major drawback of the Babolet Pure Drive (25) Junior tennis racquet is that it does not come with its own cover, which adds to an amateur’s tennis expenses. It also is made from graphite rather than aluminum, which could make it more prone to dents and dings.
Pros
  • Affordable price tag
  • Tight string pattern
  • Lightweight for easier learning and handling
Cons
  • Graphite construction rather than aluminum or sturdier materials
  • No cover included with racquet purchase

The final verdict is that the Babolet Pure Drive (25) Junior tennis racquet is a great investment for parents who want to give their kids a racquet that will help them learn how to play the game better. It may not be suitable for more skilled players or people who want a sturdier racquet.

Head 2013 YouTek Graphene Instinct PWR

Head’s 2013 YouTek Graphene Instinct PWR tennis racquet garners high reviews with fans of both the brand and the game of tennis. This racquet is one of the lightest on the market, weighing just under eight ounces. It also features a tight 16×19 string pattern that gives you better spin on the ball.

The racquet likewise is designed to be comfortable to use. It features technology that redistributes the weight between the head and the handle, giving you better control and power as you play. This racquet is perfect for beginner and intermediate players who have yet to master the art of control while swinging.

The major drawback of the Head 2013 YouTek Graphene Instinct PWR tennis racquet is that it lacks its own cover for the head of the racquet. It also comes pre-strung, which can be a disadvantage to players who prefer unstrung racquets.
Pros
  • Lightweight design
  • Tight string pattern for better spin
  • Redistribution of weight for maximum power
Cons
  • Slightly higher price tag than other racquets
  • Pre-strung
  • No cover

The final verdict for Head’s 2013 YouTek Graphene Instinct PWR tennis racquet is that it is a great selection for players who are just getting started or in the intermediate phase of learning the game. It may not be a great choice for players who prefer an unstrung racquet or one that has a bit more weight to it.

Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph

wilson-pro-staff-rf97-autographWilson is the go-to brand for many tennis players today, which is why its Pro Staff RF97 Autograph tennis racquet remains one of the favorites on the market today. This racquet is a bit heavier, weighing in at slightly over 12 ounces. However, it comes with a tight 16×19 string pattern that promises to put the perfect spin on each ball you serve or return.

It also features technology that eliminates or greatly reduces vibration in the handle while you play. The racquet redistributes the weight between the head and the handle so that you can hold and maneuver the racquet to your advantage.

The major drawback with the Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph tennis racquet is that it comes with no cover of its own. You have to buy the cover separately. You also have to pay a bit higher price for this racquet than you would for racquets made by other brands.
Pros
  • Tight string pattern
  • Redistribution of weight for maximum power
  • Reduction or elimination of vibration in handle
Cons
  • Higher price tag
  • No cover with purchase of racquet

The final verdict of the Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph tennis racquet is that it is an attractive choice for fans of the Wilson brand or people who want a pro-level racquet that is easy to handle and control. It may not be a great investment for beginners who want a lighter racquet or people who are on a tighter tennis racquet shopping budget.

Babolet Nadal 25 Junior

babolat-nadal-25-junior-tennis-racquetBabolet is one of the tennis racquet brands that goes out of its way to introduce young players to the game with innovative and fun to use racquets. It accomplishes this goal in part with its Nadal 25 Junior tennis racquet, which at a little over 12 ounces is lightweight yet powerful enough to teach young players the craft of speed, control, and spin.

This tennis racquet comes with a tight 16×19 string pattern that delivers the fast spin players want during a match. It also is made from sturdy aluminum, helping players get more wear and tear out of their racquets as they learn. Tennis great Rafael Nadal lends his brand to this racquet’s design and inspiration.

The major drawback of the racquet may actually be the weight itself. Younger players may need a lighter racquet for better handling. The racquet likewise can suffer dents and dings with prolonged use.
Pros
  • Affordable price
  • Sturdy design and dimensions
  • Rafael Nadal branding
Cons
  • Aluminum can get dented and dinged with continued use
  • Weight can be a drawback for early beginners

The final verdict for the Babolet Nadal 25 Junior tennis racquet is that it is the ideal choice for players who are in the latter beginning phase of learning or early stages of intermediate play. It may not be ideal for players younger than 9 or 10 years of age or anyone who prefers a lighter racquet.

How to Choose the Best Tennis Racquet

Along with considering the information found in tennis racquet reviews, what other details should you be looking out for when you shop for a tennis racquet? You can make a wise tennis racquet investment by keeping these criteria in mind.

Weight

 

Tennis racquets are typically designed to be lightweight and easy to handle. However, some racquets are lighter than others. Before you decide which racquet is best for you, you should determine what amount of weight you are capable of handling while still playing the game to the best of your ability.

You may need to consult with a tennis coach or someone who knows the ins and outs of the game who can help you figure out how much weight you can tolerate holding during each match. You want a racquet that is sturdy enough to give you the control you need during the game yet lightweight enough to put some power and spin behind the ball. Once you know the ideal weight that is right for your playing level, you can then set out to find the ideal tennis racquet.

String Pattern

 

The string pattern of the racquet also should be one of the considerations you have in mind as you shop. The string pattern matters because it influences the power and spin you hit the ball with during returns and serves.

When you want to hit the ball harder and faster, you need a racquet that has a tight string pattern. Most higher level amateur and professional racquets feature patterns of 16×18 or 16×19. This pattern indicates how much space is between the strings in the head. You want a tight pattern with little space in between the strings to hit a ball faster and harder as well as one with maximum spin on it.

Brand

 

Brand should definitely be a major consideration in your racquet shopping simply because some brands are known for making premium tennis gear over other brands on the market. Favorites like Wilson and Babolet are almost universally recognized and appreciated for their high-quality tennis racquets. When you choose racquets from the better known brands, you get the performance guarantee and proven results that let you fully enjoy the game.

That is not to say that lesser known brands are incapable of delivering high-quality tennis gear that gives you the power and handling that you want when you play. Still, when you want to invest in gear that will deliver on its promise and last for years, you may be encouraged to choose racquets from the better known brands that are appreciated for making top quality tennis racquets and other gear.

Price

 

Finally, you want to consider prices as you shop for the tennis racquet that is best for you. Tennis racquets are available for a wide variety of prices today. You can find extremely cheap ones as well as racquets that sell for top dollar.

If you are set on choosing racquets from the better known brands, you should be prepared to spend more, however, as the top makers of this gear typically charge upwards of $50 or more for their racquets. Still, for that price you get racquets that are built to last as well as give you top performance during a match.

If you are just learning the game or on a tighter budget, however, you can still get good racquets made by lesser known brands for around the $30 to $40 range. These racquets may be ideal if you are shopping for a beginner or plan on playing just for fun or exercise. You may not see the need to spend top dollar for a racquet that will not be used for competition or professional play.

Conclusion

Tennis racquets come in a variety of shapes, weights, designs, and price ranges today. Choose the best tennis racquet for your playing needs and budgets with the buyer’s guide and reviews of today’s top 10 tennis racquets.

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