Racquet Specs Explained
Also known as: racquet specs, racquet specifications, racket specs, head-light racquet, head light balance, points head light, head-heavy racquet, racquet balance, strung weight, unstrung weight, beam width
Racquet specs tell you how a frame will play. Head size sets the sweet spot, weight sets stability, and balance shows where the weight sits. Head-light means the balance point is nearer the handle, and each 'point' head-light is 1/8 inch. Length runs from the standard 27 inches to the 29-inch legal limit.
Head size is the string area in square inches. Today's frames run from about 85 to 135 square inches, and 95 to 110 is the most common range. Retailers often group them as mid (under 95), midplus (95 to 104) and oversize (105 and up). Weight is listed in ounces or grams. Check whether a figure is strung or unstrung, since the strings add weight and many spec sheets list the frame unstrung.
Balance is measured from the butt of the handle. A frame that balances exactly halfway up is even. For a 27-inch frame that point is 13.5 inches. Each 1/8 inch closer to the handle is one point head-light, so a balance point at 12.5 inches is 8 points head-light. Head-light frames feel quicker in the hand, and heavier control frames are usually balanced head-light. Lighter power frames are often even or head-heavy. Strings shift the balance a little toward the head, and the points scale can mislead on extended frames.
A few other specs complete the picture. Standard length is 27 inches, extended frames run longer, and ITF Appendix II caps length at 29 inches. Beam width is the thickness of the frame, given in millimetres. Stiffness (RA) and swingweight describe how the frame flexes and how heavy it feels to swing. Read them together. A light, head-heavy frame can swing much like a heavier, head-light one.
Tips by skill level
Look at three numbers first: head size, weight and balance. A midplus or oversize head with a light to medium weight suits most new players.
When adding weight, remember balance. Lead at the head moves the balance toward head-heavy and raises swingweight far more than lead in the handle.
Example
A spec line reads '100 sq in, 300 g unstrung, 4 pts HL, 27 in, 16x19.' That is a midplus head, a medium weight frame balanced half an inch toward the handle, at standard length with an open pattern.
Why it matters
Specs let you compare frames before you demo them and explain why two racquets of the same weight can feel completely different.
Common mistakes
- Comparing one frame's strung weight with another frame's unstrung weight
- Judging a racquet by static weight alone and ignoring balance and swingweight
- Reading 'points head-light' on a 28-inch frame the same way as on a 27-inch frame
- Choosing the biggest head size for power and then fighting for control
Frequently asked questions
What does head-light mean on a tennis racquet?
The balance point sits closer to the handle than the middle of the frame. Each 1/8 inch toward the handle is one point head-light. Head-light frames feel quicker to swing and easier to move at the net.
How is racquet balance measured?
From the butt end of the handle to the point where the racquet balances. Halfway up is even balance, 13.5 inches on a 27-inch frame. The distance from that midpoint, in 1/8-inch points, gives points head-light or head-heavy.
What is the difference between strung and unstrung racquet weight?
Unstrung weight is the frame alone. Strung weight includes the strings and is higher. Strings also move the balance slightly toward the head, so check which figure a spec sheet lists before comparing frames.
What head size is a midplus racquet?
Tennis Warehouse groups midplus frames at 95 to 104 square inches, with mid frames below 95 and oversize frames at 105 and up.
Sources
- Tennis Warehouse Europe — Selecting the Right Racket (head size range, weight, balance, 27–29 inch lengths)
- Tennis Warehouse — Racquet Terminology (head size, weight, swingweight and stiffness categories)
- Tennisnerd — Tennis Racquet Balance Points (balance measured from the butt; one point = 1/8 inch)
- ITF Rules of Tennis 2026 — Appendix II The Racket (29-inch maximum length)
Related terms
- Choosing a Tennis RacquetMatch the racquet to your level and swing. Beginners usually suit a lighter frame with a larger head, and Wilson's sizing chart suggests 105 to 110 square inches. Advanced players with long, fast swings often prefer heavier frames and smaller heads for control. Get your grip size right and demo a few racquets before buying.
- SwingweightSwingweight measures how heavy a racquet feels when swung, accounting for where its mass is distributed. Higher swingweight gives more plow-through and power but is harder to maneuver.
- RA / StiffnessRA is a racquet's stiffness measured by how much the frame deflects under load. Higher RA (66+) means a stiffer, more powerful but harsher frame; lower RA (under 58) flexes more for feel and arm comfort.
- String PatternString pattern is the number of main (vertical) and cross (horizontal) strings, such as 16x19 or 18x20. An open pattern like 16x19 lets the strings move more for extra spin, launch and power. A dense pattern like 18x20 gives a flatter, more controlled ball and usually lasts longer.
- Racquet Head SpeedRacquet head speed is how fast the racquet head is traveling at contact. It is the single largest factor in ball pace and spin on a given stroke.
Related guides & benchmarks
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