If you’re an advanced player, you may already be well-versed in choosing the best tennis racquets out there. However, considering there are a lot of choices in the market, it can still be overwhelming even for a seasoned veteran. 

As such, we’ve taken the time to compile a list of the best tennis racquets in 2021 for your convenience. Keep in mind, however, that the racquets listed below are based on our experience and not entirely infallible. Choosing a tennis racquet is still heavily subjective, after all. 

We’ve also ranked these rackets based on several factors, which we’ll explore below.

Defining these elements is important so we can provide an accurate description of the pieces that are recommended in this list.

With that said, let’s get started.

How to Choose the Best Tennis Racquet

First, we’ll quickly go over these eight factors:

• Head size
• Weight
• Length
• Balance
• Stiffness
• Grip size
• String

All of these elements contribute to the effectiveness of the racket on your unique physical form. Thus, it’s best to dive deep into each of these factors so you’re getting the best tennis racket to amplify your strengths and address any weaknesses. 

Head size

The larger a tennis racket’s head, the more power it can generate. What’s more, thanks to its wider head, it can cover more area so you could easily hit the ball in midair. But this comes at the cost of control.

Conversely, a smaller head doesn’t give you a lot of power and will need more accuracy on your part. The benefit is easier manoeuverability. Thus, if you’re confident in your accuracy and can generate your own power, then get a smaller head tennis racket.

Weight

This is another major factor to consider. First, the heavier the racket is, the more power it can generate. But this isn’t to say that the lighter ones offer more control.

In fact, control-oriented tennis rackets are even heavier, although the head is lighter for more manoeuverability.

As such, your physical strength to hold the racket and the stamina to wield it longer will play a role in this regard. However, there are other factors to consider like age, playstyle, and experience level.

Length

The length of the best tennis rackets out there falls between 27 inches to 29 inches. The latter is the maximum length allowed in a tournament so bear that in mind.

A longer racket gives you more reach and leverages when serving. The downside is less manoeuverability due to its swing weight and it can be a bit unwieldy for some.

Conversely, a shorter racket offers more control, especially for smaller adult players. Moreover, adult players that aren’t that tall would sometimes opt for a 26” tennis racquet for easier hand-eye coordination. 

Of course, the tradeoff is it’s more difficult to reach certain vertical and horizontal shots, especially when receiving the ball from the opponent. 

A shorter racquet will also come at the cost of power. Thus, most adults usually settle for a standard 27”tennis racquet.

Balance

Balance typically comes down to personal preference and playstyle than anything else. 

It is determined by the weight of the head and the handle. Most pros often prefer a light-headed racket as it provides more control and better maneuverability. 

Meanwhile, a less advanced player prefers head-heavy rackets as it provides more power thanks to the mass that’s concentrated more on the head.

Stiffness

Stiffness refers to the flexibility of the frame. The stiffer the tennis racquet is, the more power it can generate.

On the other hand, the more flexible the racquet is, the more power is lost during contact. The benefit is it provides more control. However, it’s worth noting that this depends more on the player’s personal preference than anything else. The same can be said for comfort.

Beam

The beam refers to how thick the tennis racquet head is. Thicker racquet heads mean they can generate more power as more energy is transferred to the ball at impact. 

Meanwhile, thinner racquets offer more control and improve the overall feel of the racquet. As such, if you can generate your own power, you might want to settle for thinner racquets. 

Keep in mind, however, that this will take extra finesse. But again, if you’re comfortable enough with your skill, then a thin racquet may be best for you. 

Grip Size

Deeply understanding your grip size plays a key role in how you’ll perform with that specific tennis racket. Moreover, the right grip size will lessen the chance of you developing a tennis elbow.

A smaller grip size needs more muscle strength to prevent the tennis racket from twisting. Conversely, a larger grip size will keep you from snapping your wrists during serves. It also requires more muscle strength and it’ll be harder for you to change grips during the game.

Again, if the grip size is too big or too small, you’ll risk developing a tennis elbow. But you can still address a smaller grip size by adding an overgrip or replacing the original grip with a thicker one like the Karakal Kushy Grip. 

Overgrips are affordable add-ons you can use to try out different materials. It’s usually recommended you replace your overgrips after using it 10-20 times, although you should also consider the visual wear on the add-on itself.

Thus, to truly determine the grip size you’ll need, try to use this measurement here. 

String

The string has been added last on this attribute list as it’s highly encouraged you to buy a tennis racket without any strings. This is due to the relatively low quality of factory strings used by most manufacturers. Also, most tennis racquets that are pre-strung aren’t top-quality choices anyway.

In fact, most high-quality racquets come unstrung. So if you are in the market for a good racquet, don't consider racquets that come pre-strung.

Thus, what you want is to purchase an unstrung racket, preferably at a specialized racket store. Then, have the racket strung based on your unique playstyle. 

Moreover, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re unsure about what string is right for you. 

In the interest of time, we won’t be covering the types of strings for a tennis racket. For that, you’d want to check this resource here.

Now we’re going to move on to the best tennis rackets in 2021.

Best Tennis Rackets 2021 That We Recommend

1. Wilson Clash 108

The Wilson 108 is one of the best tennis rackets for beginners in Wilson’s Clash lineup. It accommodates both beginners and high-level intermediate players, although it leans more on the latter. Its oversize head provides plenty of room for sweet spots during off-center connections. And to compensate for the enlarged head, Wilson has a proprietary carbon construct that enhances frame flexibility. This flexibility is to attributed to the racquet’s FreeFlex tech, which allows the frame to bend in dimensions. 

As a result, ball pocketing is augmented and more control is achieved. For stability and power, the StableSmart feature handles that. It creates a unique frame geometry for a more flexible frame that’s perfect for modern swings. Meanwhile, Parallel Drilling is added to the string bed for a more forgiving response during impact.

With that said, the 108 could take some getting used to when it comes to your serves. Some will also say its power is a bit wanting considering the 108 is more focused on comfort and control. But overall, this tennis racket is a solid addition to Wilson’s Clash lineup.

Here are the specs of the Wilson Clash 108

2. Babolat Pure Aero Team

If your game style is particularly leaning towards spin and head speed, then the Babolat Pure Aero Team is for you. It has all the features of its heavier Pure Aero kin that gives it a ton of advantages. As such, it’s one of the best tennis racquets for spin.

To start, the CarbonPly Stabilizer tech reinforces the frame to achieve more control and stability. Meanwhile, the Cortex Pure located at its 3 and 9’oclock enhances feel and control.

Then the Team has the FSI Spin feature, an open string pattern that incredibly augments your spin. And to further emphasize this aspect, it has an oblong-shaped spin grommet built at 6 and 12 o'clock. Lastly, the Woofer System allows for a longer contact duration between the string and the ball. The result is a spin that offers more comfort, superior control, and a responsive feel. It adds a bit of power too although not by much.

The tradeoff is low stability, which is especially noticeable when you’re going against heavier hitters near the net. With all things considered, this is still one of the best tennis rackets for beginners and intermediate players, particularly for those favoring spin to create scoring opportunities.

Here’s the specs of the Babolat Pure Aero Team:

3. Wilson Triad Three 113

If you’re looking for a tennis racket that’s forgiving but has tremendous power, the Wilson Triad Three 113 is a great choice. Its construction is geared towards more experienced players that are going for a balance between a large sweet spot and arm-friendly comfort. However, even beginners can take advantage of it thanks to the power it generates.

One of its features includes the 3-piece packet system that separates the hoop and handles with a softer Isozorb pad. This provides it with both power and comfort. Meanwhile, its Hammer Technology further builds on this power by placing more weight on the head. Then you have the Power Holes feature that increases ball dwell time to augment its feel and responsiveness. And lastly, the oversized head will provide added power, while the large sweet spot leaves plenty of room for forgiveness.

But you’ll need to be a bit gentler with your swings as the ball tends to fly if you’re not careful enough. Other than that, this is one of the best tennis racquets for beginners out there.

Here are the specs of the Wilson Triad Three 113:

4. Wilson Clash 100

The Wilson Clash 100 is quite a unique tennis racket. You have access to great manoeuverability and still enjoy spin and power. 

According to Wilson, this tennis racquet is specifically engineered to bend with any swing style thanks to its flexibility. This flexibility comes from its FreeFlex and StableSmart technology. The former acts on the frame’s flexibility, while the latter on the frame’s geometry.

From the outset, you’ll quickly notice the weight of the Wilson Clash 100. At only 11 ounces, you can easily manoeuvre this racket, which is apparent on your returns and playing at the net. With regards to its power and stability, the StableSmart tech aids in that area. There’s also a lot of room for topspin thanks to the 100 in2 16x19 string pattern.

However, even with these benefits, some would complain it lacks power due to how light the tennis racket is. Moreover, while the Wilson Clash 100 has a lot of sweet spots, once you step out of that area, you tend to lose considerable power and control. 

With that said, the Wilson Clash 100 is a great tennis racquet to have in your arsenal. And with your playstyle favoring flexibility and maneuverability, this could be your next go-to tennis racquet.

Here are the specs of the Wilson Clash 100

5. Babolat Pure Drive 2021 300g

Unlike most of the recommendations in this best tennis racquet list, the Babolat Pure Drive 2021 is great for all tennis player levels. From beginners to advance, this is a great tennis racket that caters to all player levels.

The two main strengths of the Babolat Pure Drive 2021 are spin and ferocious power. For the latter, the FSI tech combined with Babolat’s woofer system is what provides this massive spike.

What’s more, the tennis racquet elliptical geometric design decreased flex and boosts the rigidity of the frame, further providing extra power. And if that’s not enough, the 2021 version also has an HTR system, which strengthens the hoop’s graphite. This further enhanced the frame’s rigidity and improve energy transfer for more power generation. Ferocious power, indeed.

For the spin, the 100 in2 head along with the 16x19 string pattern helps in this regard. And of course, with all that power output, tennis players can dictate the pace on the first serve.

But for all its ferocity, it can be a double-edged sword. The Babolat Pure Drive 2021 can be overwhelming for the tennis player using it. Add the fact that you’ll need to pay attention to controlling your output and the tennis racquet can be too much.

Also, if you have a tennis elbow, consider other options out there. The stiff frames can take a toll on your arm and could lead to further complications if you aren’t careful enough.

With that said, the Pure Drive 2021 is still one of the best tennis racquets for power players.

Here are the specs of the Babolat Pure Drive 2021:

6. Babolat Pure Aero 300g

The Babolat Pure Aero is one of the best tennis rackets out there for those with an aggressive game style. This is especially true for those who deem the baseline as their turf. In this iteration, Babolat reduced the flex a bit. As a result, the stiff stick gains more control, while providing an arm-friendly response. Meanwhile, the Cortex dampening material has been relocated to the 3 and 9’oclock, decreasing the impact and vibrations. Its FSI Spin provides an added bite by using a wide string spacing.

Moreover, the oblong grommet located at 6 and 12 o’clock adds extra movement and snapback. For speed and stability, the 320 swing weight settles between snapback and movement, achieving a balance for both.

For the tradeoff, the Pure Aero isn’t particularly putting a lot of emphasis on control and stability. What’s more, if you’re a player struggling to flatten out the ball, then the Pure Aero might not be the tennis racket for you.

Again, this piece is quite the weapon in the hands of an aggressive baseline player. If you favour that particular playstyle, then you may have found your next best tennis racquet. 

Here are the specs of the Babolat Pure Aero 300g

7. Yonex EZONE 98 305g

The Yonex EZONE 98 is another all-rounder tennis racquet whether you’re an intermediate player or an advanced player. Power generation is generous, creating spin is relatively smooth, a large sweet spot covers a lot of areas, and the overall feel is downright fantastic.

But there is room for improving control and the tennis racquet’s stiffness might earn a few frowns from some players. There were also comments about slicing as you’ll need a high precision to carry out the manoeuver.

With regards to its comparison to the previous version, most prefer the Yonex EZONE 98. Sure, it offers more power on the cost of control but a bit of customization and you’ll be fine. The most likely opinion you’ll form with this racket is it doesn’t offer maximum performance in specific areas. For instance, you may need to pay extra attention to your spin to reach your desired outcome.

But overall, the Yonex EZONE 98 is a great tennis racquet for an intermediate player or advanced player. So it’s unsurprising this was included in this best tennis racket list.

Here are the specs:

8. Yonex Vcore 100 300g

Here’s another tennis racket for those favoring a spin game style. To achieve this, the VCore 100 has the String Sync that uses a grommet system to boost spin potential. Its ForceFlex tech uses flexible graphite in the upper shaft and lower head. As such, it has a more effective frame snapback that results in an optimal feel during impact. For comfort, the tennis racket has Vibration Dampening Mesh to reduce the burden on your arm. You’ll also notice that the racket is more manoeuverable.

With regards to power, you’ll have to generate your own. However, since the racket has manoeuverability nailed down, this won’t be much of an issue. The problem is control, which is quite prominent during your returns and attack shots. Some players might even note that it needs more weight for added stability. But all in all, the VCore 100 is one of the best tennis racquets in 2021 and it has the potential to elevate your game, especially if you prefer manoeuverability to power.

Here are the specs of the Yonex Vcore 100 300g:

9. Babolat Pure Tour 2021

The Babolat Pure Tour 2021 is a tennis racket emphasizing spin and power. That’s unsurprising given this stick is the heaviest member of the Pure Drive lineup. With that said, Babolat did provide a satisfying pop and stability to the Pure Tour 2021 compared to the other Pure Drive members. It also has Babolat’s new HTR System. It re-engineered the graphite layout for torsional rigidity, allowing for more efficient energy transfer from the racket to the ball.

With regards to comfort and arm protection, you have the SWX Pure Feel. The material is an incredibly flexible viscoelastic rubber strategically installed between carbon layers. This allows the tennis racket to absorb harsher vibrations of this stiff stick.

Of course, with spin and power at your hands, you’ll have to be more mindful of control. Additionally, stiffness can be an issue, especially for players with problems like tennis elbow. This is more for aggressive players who specialize in keeping their opponents on the defensive using their serves. In other words, it numbers among the best tennis racquet for spin and power.

Here are the specs of the Babolat Pure Tour 2021:

10. Yonex VCORE Pro 97 310g

Whether your playstyle favours the baseline or operating near the net, the Yonex VCORE Pro 97 will more than accommodate your preference. And similar to some of the tennis racquets mentioned on this list, the Yonex VCORE Pro 97 310 is considered to be one of the most well-rounded frames in the 2021 market.

It has tons of awesome tech behind it too. To start, the Yonex VCORE Pro 97 310 has the 2G-NAMD graphite infused at its throat. The result is an improved flex, ball-pocketing, and leaves plenty of room for topspin. For comfort, the Flex Fuse provides impact-absorbing benefits for a gentler arm experience. It further emphasized this with the vibration-dampening mesh that decreases vibration by 30 percent.

From the throat to the handle, Yonex provided the tennis racquet with a 3D vector shaft. The deep grooves here decrease the twisting of the frame while also addressing stability issues.

Speaking of stability, the Yonex VCORE Pro 97 310 has mixed carbon graphite and Black Micro Core elasticity at 10 and 2 o’clock. The result is stable contact whenever the ball connects with the tennis racket’s head.

With all of these techs behind the Yonex VCORE Pro 97 310, you can already tell the tradeoff for such feel, control, and manoeuverability: reduce power. Of course, since you can address this by generating the power yourself, you’re likely going to settle for this trade. Especially when the tennis racquet offers superb accuracy and precision from any point on the court. Thus, this frame is able to grab the eighth spot of our best tennis racket list. 

Here are the specs of the Yonex VCORE Pro 97 310:

Best Tennis Rackets in 2021: Final Thoughts

When choosing the best tennis racket in 2021, always consider your unique playstyle. Do you favor backcourt rallies or do you like scoring at the net?

Intimately knowing your preferred playstyle will narrow down your choices and make it easier for you to choose your next tennis racquet. And of course, you’ll need to evaluate your skill level as well. 

For an in-depth read about that topic, we’ve extensively covered that here, and then some.

As for this list, we’ll try to update it each year as manufacturers are continuously pushing out new versions and unique builds.