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Racketpedia is the only service that offers you an objective classification of tennis rackets based exclusively on instrumental data.
Join nowHead size (also known as the “string bed” or “oval”) is one of the most important characteristics of a tennis racket, as it directly affects power, control, forgiveness, and comfort.
It’s the area of the frame where the strings are interlaced, measured in square inches (in²) or square centimeters (cm²). The most common sizes range from around 85 in² (550 cm²) to 135 in² (870 cm²).
| Category | Size | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Mid | < 95 in² | Highly precise, low forgiveness, requires more physical effort |
| Midplus | 95–105 in² | Great balance between control and power |
| Oversize | 106–115 in² | More power and comfort, greater forgiveness on off-center hits |
| Super Oversize | > 115 in² | Maximum surface area, ideal for beginners or those seeking ease of use |
A larger head size means a larger sweetspot, making the racket more forgiving on off-center shots.
A smaller head size offers greater precision and responsiveness, but demands better technique and clean contact.
Some manufacturers use a head shape called isometric, which differs from the traditional oval design. The isometric head has a more squared profile, with the upper and lateral parts slightly expanded, which helps increase the sweetspot.
At the same total surface area, an isometric racket offers more effective hitting area compared to a standard oval shape, improving forgiveness and consistency on off-center hits. This design is especially appreciated by players seeking a blend of precision, power, and comfort without increasing overall head size.
String pattern is a key technical parameter that affects control, spin, string durability, and impact feel.
It’s the arrangement of vertical (main) and horizontal (cross) strings in the racquet’s head.
| Pattern | Main Features |
|---|---|
| 16x19 | 16 main strings, 19 cross strings. More spin, lively feel, less control |
| 18x20 | 18 main strings, 20 cross strings. More control, solid and stable impact |
| 16x18 / 16x20 | Intermediate variants. Balanced spin and control |
| Open pattern (e.g., 14x18) | Wider spacing between strings. Maximum spin and comfort, but faster string wear |
If you're a spin player or want more power and effect, go with an open pattern. If you prefer precision and consistency from the baseline, a denser pattern is often better suited.
The racquet beam profile is one of the key factors affecting how a racquet performs on court. In addition to thickness, the shape of the frame — boxed, tapered (aerodynamic), or hybrid — plays a fundamental role in control, power, and feel at impact.
The profile refers to the side thickness of the frame, measured in millimeters. The thicker it is, the stiffer and more powerful the racquet tends to be.
| Thickness | Main characteristics |
|---|---|
| Thin beam 17–21 mm | More flexible, better control and feel |
| Mid beam 22–25 mm | Balance between power and control |
| Thick beam 26–30+ mm | Stiffer frame, maximum power and responsiveness |
| Shape | Best suited for |
|---|---|
| Boxed Square and thin beam. Offers more flex and control. | Classic, technical players |
| Tapered (profiled) Wider, stiffer, aerodynamic frame. Delivers more power and speed. | Modern, aggressive players |
| Hybrid A mix of box and profiled beam. Balanced performance. | Players seeking all-around playability |
Beam profile affects frame stiffness, energy return, and the feel on ball impact. Considering both thickness and shape is essential to find a racquet that fits your playing style.
The weight of the racquet is one of the most important aspects that affects on-court performance. The ideal weight choice depends on personal preference and playing style, as it influences power, control, maneuverability, and comfort.
The weight of the racquet is its overall mass, typically measured in grams (g) or ounces (oz). Lighter racquets are more maneuverable, while heavier ones offer greater stability and power.
| Weight | Main Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Light (250–300 g) | More maneuverable, ideal for beginners, less power but more speed |
| Medium (300–330 g) | Good balance between power and control, suitable for intermediate and advanced players |
| Heavy (330+ g) | Greater stability, power, and control, require more physical strength and technique |
If you're looking for maneuverability and speed, a lighter racquet is ideal. If you prefer a balance between control and power, opt for a medium-weight racquet. For advanced players seeking maximum power and stability, a heavier racquet is the best choice.
The balance of the racquet is a key parameter that directly influences the feel of the racquet in your hand, as well as its performance on the court. It refers to the distribution of weight along the frame and determines how the racquet reacts during play. A correct balance is essential for getting the most out of every shot.
The balance of the racquet is the position where the weight of the racquet is distributed. It is usually measured in centimeters (cm) from the base of the handle, along the frame. The balance point is where the racquet is "neutral," meaning if you rest it on a finger, it will not tilt toward the head or the handle.
| Main Characteristics | Ideal for |
|---|---|
| Head-heavy balance. Greater power and stability on groundstrokes. | Players seeking more power and stability but can handle a less maneuverable racquet. |
| Head-light balance. More maneuverability and faster swing speed. | Players who prefer a racquet that’s easier to move, useful for net play or fast shots. |
| Even balance. Uniform weight distribution, with a good compromise between power and control. | Players seeking a balance between power and control in all playing situations. |
The choice of balance depends a lot on your playing style and personal preferences. If you’re looking for a racquet that helps generate power, a head-heavy balance might be the right choice. If you prefer control and speed in your shots, a head-light racquet will give you an advantage. If you’re unsure, an even balance provides a good middle ground for all levels of play.
The stiffness of the racquet is a crucial parameter that affects the playing feel, power, and comfort. It refers to the resistance of the racquet frame to deformation upon impact with the ball. The stiffer the frame, the less deformation there will be, and the more energy will be transferred to the ball, generating more power. However, greater stiffness can reduce the comfort feel, especially if the ball doesn't hit perfectly in the sweet spot. Conversely, a more flexible frame offers more control and a softer feel at impact but may sacrifice some power.
Stiffness is the ability of the frame to resist bending when the ball strikes the strings. It is measured in a value called RA (Racquet Stiffness Rating), with higher values indicating greater stiffness.
| Stiffness | Main Characteristics |
|---|---|
| High stiffness | Powerful and responsive feel, but less control and comfort. Greater stress on the arm and elbow. |
| Medium stiffness | Balance between power and comfort, suitable for most players. |
| Low stiffness | More control and comfort, but less power. Ideal for players who prefer a soft feel and control. |
The choice of stiffness depends on your personal needs and playing style. If you seek power and a quicker response, a stiffer racquet might be the right choice. If, on the other hand, you prioritize control, comfort, and a softer feel at impact, a racquet with lower stiffness might suit you better.
