Most serious players believe that control and spin are the best ways to be consistent and gain a competitive advantage. To do so, you must be well-equipped on the court, but with so many alternatives on the market, choosing the proper tennis racket for control can be overwhelming.
We chose the best tennis racquet for control to make things easier, offering a range of choices across different brands, categories, and price points.
Generally speaking, control rackets are appropriate for advanced to high-intermediate players who are capable of competitive play. If you’re thinking about purchasing one, you should make sure you’ve learned all the tricks and have a distinct gaming style.
Best Tennis Racquet for Control
We selected the top control tennis rackets based on their most significant characteristics, such as head size, weight, construction, string pattern, spin potential, stability, and so on. Those who reached our final list demonstrated the best performance and quality during our playtest. Make sure you check out the best control rackets 2024.
1. Wilson Pro Staff 97 v14
This tennis racket is designed to dazzle! The Wilson Pro Staff 97 V14 is one of the newest models from the popular brand that has generated a lot of buzz. We were immediately fans after testing it out; it provided excellent performance and was simple to use. This racket has a compact 97 sq. in head and an open 16×19 string arrangement.
In case you need a little more push for the strokes, the frame has a small amount of controlled power in addition to its amazing spin potential. It allows the player to make complete, powerful strokes while staying easy to move, despite its heavy weight. Naturally, this Wilson racket’s greatest feature is its outstanding control levels, which are further strengthened by the company’s String Mapping technology.
During the playtest, it was simple to direct the ball’s path and give depth to the shouts while hitting all of the targets. It gives the racket a flawless touch that feels clean to the touch and enhances its accuracy. It is also quite easy to control, gives ample time for position changes, and may produce insane speed with the correct abilities.
It’s hard not to admire this racket; it provided us nothing to complain about. Wilson Pro Staff 97 v14 is only intended for high intermediate to advanced players, although it can be an excellent choice for competitive matches.
Pros
- Exceptional control
- Heavy spin
- Great feel
- Easy to maneuver
Cons
- Higher price point
2. Babolat Pure Aero Tour
Many people are familiar with the Babolat Pure Aero because it is Rafael Nadal’s preferred racquet because it is quite powerful. That is why, for a more comprehensive alternative, the Babolat Aero Pro Tour 2019 offers the best of both worlds.
The racquet provides stability in addition to increased table control. It feels much softer than previous Babolat alternatives in this series, which is a nice change for many. This provides for a greater touch near the net while not compromising any power.
This is still a racquet with more power than control, but the difference has shrunk dramatically. A player who wants to rip a serve or forehand can do so effortlessly. More balls will remain in due to the enhanced spin and control, and the racquet simply feels more dialed in during the match.
The main reason why many people choose the tour model over the standard model is that it weighs somewhat more. If a player is unable to handle this style of racquet, start with the standard model and add some lead tape here and there for increased control.
For those seeking a racquet that is properly balanced in terms of power and control, the tour model offers a noticeable improvement.
Pros
- Outstanding chances for topspin
- Incredibly strong
- An excellent racquet for serving
Cons
- A bit difficult for novice players
- A little touch and feel are missing
3. Yonex EZONE 98
We recommend the Yonex Ezone 98 as the best tennis racket for control among our female players. Its fantastic design and adaptable frame make it one of the most popular models of the well-known brand. During our playtest, this racket performed admirably in all areas, making the game more enjoyable.
It has a 98 square inch head loaded with spin and a typical 27-inch length to give adequate leverage on the court. This racket features a 16×19 open string pattern and a special isometric design to increase sweet spot size.
While this racket is primarily designed for control, it does deliver decent power levels, particularly at the baseline, making it ideal for players with a smaller physique and less body muscle mass. Consequently, it is an excellent tennis racket for women.
Yonex Ezone 98 pushed the ball deep on the other side of the court, allowing complete swings and making it simple to strike objectives. It gives the players a great, crunchy feel that makes them more responsive up in the net and helps them connect with the ball better. This racket’s moderate weight makes it easy to maneuver in court.
It can produce some significant speed with a little work and gives the players ample time to reposition themselves without feeling hurried. The performance felt a little unpredictable on a few occasions since the racket was unable to provide adequate stability. Other than that, the racket functioned well and had little problems.
Pros
- High levels of control
- Excellent feel
- Highly responsive
- Spin and speed
Cons
- More stability would be nice
4. Head Prestige Pro
The Radical and the Prestige have certain things in common. The Prestige Pro, however, allows skilled players to hit balls with force while maintaining exceptional control. The accuracy of the racquet in the correct hands may be lethal to opponents.
With every new racquet release, it becomes more and more difficult to make significant improvements. That is not a criticism of the Head Prestige, but rather an indication that the manufacturer is getting it right.
This racquet can benefit a wide range of players, with small improvements in power and spin. For a control-oriented racquet like this, it remains the weakest component of the setup, but advanced players will still be able to use it without any issues.
Pros
- Very stable
- Among the most accurate
- Sufficient weight to smash through shots
Cons
- Designed mostly for experienced gamers only
- There aren’t many differences between this version and the last one.
5. Head Gravity Pro 2021
Finding a racket that combines both power and control may be rather difficult for players because control tennis rackets typically have low power levels. We are here to assist, thus we propose Head Gravity Pro 2021 as the finest option for control and power. With a dense 18×20 string arrangement and a regular size, this racket has an average head area of 100 square feet.
In addition to offering sufficient leverage, the frame has outstanding spin potential and simple power levels. It works effectively in volleys, returns, and groundstrokes, allowing the racket’s full ability to shine. The Head Gravity Pro provides Excellent control and stability, enabling the user to hit targets with extreme precision and easily redirect the ball.
The well-known tennis racket manufacturer has incorporated new technology to make the frame more responsive while also improving the sharp touch and flex. Energy transfer is excellent, and the racket can absorb shock impact to provide additional arm relaxation.
The only problem we had throughout the playtest was that the racket was difficult to maneuver because of its heavy weight. Because it is appropriate for intermediate to advanced players, it is assumed that they possess the abilities and strategies necessary to fully utilize the racket.
Pros
- Superb control
- Power and spin stability
- Increased comfort
Cons
- It’s difficult to maneuver
6. Babolat Pure Strike 16×19
Babolat Pure Strike 16×19 struck us with its excellent control and feel, as well as its ease of playability. One of our top choices on this list is the racket, whose performance is significantly improved by the new technology built into the frame.
It weighs 10.8 ounces, which is relatively light, and has a head size of 98 square inches. It provided excellent control and accuracy on the court throughout the playtest. Predicting the ball’s landing spot while hitting objects and adding depth was simple. With so much spin and power, this racket gives the player more self-assurance as they attempt a range of shots.
Babolat Pure Strike was as responsive and easy to control as we had anticipated, particularly in close proximity to the net. If you play aggressively, it can be used effectively anywhere on the court and is simple to weaponize. Throughout the game, we admired the racket’s comfort and stability.
Pros
- Sharp control
- Soft feeling
- Spin and power
- Comfortable
Cons
- Not Ideal for Defensive Play
7. Prince Textreme Tour 100P
One of the best additions to the well-known Prince brand is the Prince Textreme Tour 100P, which is also their best tennis racket for control. The racket works well for a variety of game types and is appropriate for players of all skill levels, from low intermediates to highly skilled players.
It has a 100 square inch head with intricate string patterns that produce a lot of spin. Even during intense arguments, this racket can keep up a good pace because it is so quick. During the playtest, everyone preferred the flat strokes, which allowed for more penetrating volleys.
Because of the adaptable structure, it feels sturdy and steady during the game. The Prince racket was dependable and had excellent accuracy, even when shooting for challenging goals across the court.
Even though it weighs a lot, it is responsive and easy to handle online. You might feel the sharp vibration if you miss the center shots, even if the racket is comfy and helps lessen shock effect. Nevertheless, given the excellent performance and the range of features, this is really a small disadvantage.
Pros
- Adaptable frame
- Elevated levels of control
- Increased comfort
- Speed and spin
Cons
- When the center shots are missed, a sharp vibration is transmitted.
8. Tecnifibre TF40 305
Tecnifibre is quite popular among tennis players. They have long been able to produce racquets that are suitable for specific play styles, and this one is excellent for players who require the highest level of precision.
To get the most out of this racquet, players must have some rather sophisticated strokes because of its 98-inch head size and 326-gram swingweight. There’s a chance that having control of their power will be a big advantage.
Because of its well-rounded design, the racquet plays well in all areas of the court. While some control racquets are only excellent for serves or groundstrokes, this is also a good choice for other strokes. Once more, because it is a bit heavier than some of the other racquets available, players will need to be adaptable with their agility.
However, putting balls away at the net and attempting to be more direct with shots overall can be incredibly rewarding for those who can handle it.
Pros
- Swingweight that is comfortable for a heavier racquet
- A larger sweet spot
- All-around choice for players of all stripes
Cons
- Creating a lot of power is necessary
- The greatest maneuverability is not
9. Head Radical MP 2021
For more experienced players, a decent tennis racket should feel like an extension of the arm and improve performance on the court. Head Radical MP 2021 excels at this, so if you haven’t decided yet, give it some thought. This racket has an open 16×19 string arrangement, a rather small head area (98 sq. in), and a substantial weight of 11.2 when strung.
A player may readily harness its excellent spin potential, and it even provides some free power for an additional push at the baseline. For aggressive players, its high levels of control and simple targeting are very helpful.
You can add depth for more penetrating shots and easily control where the ball will fall with this racket. The racket’s new technology has improved speed and stability, giving players more confidence when attempting full swings or various slices and kicks. Although it has a small margin of error, it is surprisingly pleasant on the arm.
Pros
- Easy targeting
- Enhanced feel
- Speed and stability
- Arm-friendly
Cons
- The low margin of errors
10. Prince Phantom 93P 18×20
With remarkable power and agility, the Prince Phantom 93P racquet is an excellent control racquet.
For intermediate and advanced players who wish to control their shots with accuracy and still have high power, especially on off-center hits, this is a great option.
The Prince Phantom’s tiny beam and 18×20 string pattern provide players exceptional control, allowing them to confidently put their shots wherever they desire.
This racquet’s remarkable responsiveness and mobility are also a result of its inventive carbon tubing construction, which makes it simple to react to challenging angles or quick rallies.
Additionally, every shot seems effortless due to the expanded sweetspot’s consistent performance across the hitting surface.
Overall, there is no need to search any farther than the Prince Phantom 93P for a dependable and well-balanced control racquet.
A smaller head size that has a little of a full school field to it overall is all that players need to be okay with. Instead of someone attempting to learn the game, it is designed for the experienced player who wants more accuracy.
Pros
- Extremely thin fit beam
- Flexible
- Dense String Pattern
Cons
- Little head size
- A quick swing is required for any power
What Makes a Tennis Racquet Have More Control?
Let’s review the real factors that contribute to a tennis racquet’s control.
String Pattern
The number of main and cross strings in a racquet is referred to as its string pattern. String patterns that are frequently used are 16×19, 18×19, and 18×20.
The strings will be closer together as the numbers increase. This string arrangement, which is referred to as “tight,” aids players in feeling and control.
An “open” string pattern, created by fewer mains and crossings, can aid in spin and power. All of the top-rated tennis racquets for spin feature string configurations that are no larger than 16 by 19.
Frame Size
The portion of the racquet that holds the strings together is referred to as the frame size. Advanced racquets can have frames as small as 90 square inches, while beginner racquets might have frames as large as 115 square inches.
Because the spring impact is lessened by shorter strings, a lower frame size provides better control. This gives players more control and accuracy if they can generate their own power. The most powerful tennis racquets often have larger frames that measure more than 100 square inches.
Weight
The weight is a reference to the racquet’s weight. Although strings are occasionally used, this is typically measured without the racquet’s strings. Be sure to maintain consistency as you compare.
A heavier racquet is usually more stable, which improves control. However, swing technique issues will arise if the racquet is too hefty for you. While advanced racquets are heavier, the finest tennis racquets for beginners are lightweight and easy to swing.
It’s advisable to test a few racquets and choose one that you can swing comfortably.
Balance
The balance point of a racquet is defined as the point along its length where the weight is distributed evenly. The balance point of a racquet that is evenly balanced would be precisely at the center of its length.
A balance point of 13.5 inches (34.3 cm) is located halfway up the racquet because the majority of adult racquets are 27 inches (68.59 cm) long. As a result, the racquet is regarded as “evenly balanced.” A racquet is deemed “head heavy” if its balancing point is more than 13.5 inches; a racquet that is less than 13.5 inches is referred to as “head light.”
It is simpler to control a head-heavy racquet because it is more stable than a head-light one.
Your efficiency will be decreased, though, if the racquet is too head heavy and uncomfortable for you. For this reason, it’s critical to strike a balance between comfort and balance. Additionally, you can learn how to adjust the weight and balance of your tennis racquet.
Beam Thickness
The width of the racquet frame when viewed in profile is referred to as the beam thickness. Typically, millimeters are used to quantify this. Generally speaking, a racquet with a broader beam will have more power, but one with a smaller beam will feel and control better.
Stiffness
A racquet’s stiffness is a measure of its flexibility. The stiffest number on this scale is 100, which goes from 0 to 100. More power and stability will come from a stiffer racquet, but less feel and comfort. A less rigid racquet is something that players with tennis elbow should think about.
Length
Tennis racquets are normally 27 inches long. Because they have more leverage, oversized racquets—which may reach lengths of up to 28 inches—give your shots more spin and power.
More control is theoretically possible with a shorter racquet. A normal 27-inch racquet is still the best option for the majority of players.
How to Choose a Tennis Racquet with Control
You can begin weighing your options now that you know what a tennis racquet does to produce control.
Skill Level
In general, beginners will need more power and advanced players seek more control.
Beginners
A light racquet with a larger head size is the best choice for beginners learning tennis. As their muscles adjust to the game, this will enable them to rally without straining their arm while learning to make consistent contact with the ball.
Look out:
- larger head size: more than 100 square inches
- Lighter frame: less than 11 ounces
- More strength
Intermediate
Intermediate-level tennis racquets are smaller in head size and slightly heavier.
Look out:
- Size range for a medium head: 98 to 105 square inches
- Frame weight: 10.1 to 11.5 ounces, medium
- Control and power balance
Advanced
In order to play with control, feel, and accuracy, advanced players should use racquets that are 95 to 100 square inches in size. Players will be able to play with greater confidence when they attempt their shots thanks to these advantages.
Look out:
- Smaller head size: 100 or less square inches
- Heavy frame: more than 11 ounces.
- Racquets that are tuned for feel and control
Budget
How much you want to spend is one of the most crucial factors to take into account when purchasing a racquet.
Prices for racquets range from $25 to several hundred dollars. The majority of modern racquets cost between $150 and $250.
You might also think about purchasing a used racquet from Tennis Warehouse or another website if money is a concern.
How Often will You Play Tennis?
You should also think about how frequently you want to play. Take into account more arm-friendly racquets and strings if you are an occasional player or weekend warrior.
It’s best to test out a few racquets and see which one best suits your strokes if you play more frequently.
Personal Preferences
Additionally, you should choose precisely what you want from your racquet. For instance, you might want a racquet that gives your groundstrokes more topspin if you play a lot of singles. However, you will want a racquet with better control for your volleys if you prefer to go to the net and play doubles most of the time.
Do You Prefer a Specific Brand?
Because they like the grip type, head shape, and/or other characteristics that set distinct brands apart, some people choose to play with a particular brand of racquet.
Although it’s crucial to maintain an open mind about several brands, you will probably come to like one or a small number of them over time.
Final Verdict
This is our overall guide to Best Tennis Racquet for Control. The Wilson Pro Staff 97 V13 tennis racket is our top pick for overall performance. It has outstanding control, spin potential, and a flexible frame that is easy to manipulate—everything a skilled player could want. Another excellent choice that made our list is the Head Radical MP 2021, which has improved feel, easy targeting, and sharp control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a heavier tennis racket give you more control?
The kind of player you are will determine this. A heavier racket can help keep the ball in play if your style is more centered on speed and power. Lighter models, on the other hand, might provide you with better control and a more improved feel if you value accuracy. In general, various players have different weight preferences, so it’s recommended to try a few different ones and find which suits you the best.
Why is control important in tennis?
In tennis, control is essential because it enables players to position the ball precisely and guide shots to take advantage of opponents’ vulnerabilities or preserve a tactical edge. By moving the opponent about the court and making it difficult for them to predict or react appropriately, a player with good control can set the pace of the game.
Is head size related to control?
Indeed, control can be affected by head size. Because their sweet spot is more focused, smaller head sizes usually provide more control and accuracy. Conversely, larger head sizes offer more power and a wider sweet spot, which may be more forgiving of off-center shots but may also result in a loss of control.
