Best Tennis Racquets for Beginners of 2026

Strings: Comes with strings installed
Why we like it: Coming with strings installed, the Head Ti.S6 comes ready to play. It offers ample power and spin from its large head size, and with a light weight under 9 ounces strung, it's easy to swing. This racquet is ideal for beginners looking for an extra large sweetspot.

Strings: Comes with strings installed
Why we like it: The Radical S is light and easy to swing, and with a 102-square-inch head size, it has a forgiving sweetspot. The Radical S offers strong beginners and developing intermediate level players the control of racquets for more advanced levels at an easier to swing weight.

Strings: Comes with strings installed
Why we like them: With a few options priced under $120, the Babolat Boost racquets are a great introduction to the game. All of the options come with strings installed so they're ready to play out of the box. They offer a nice blend of features to help beginners develop their games. To make it simple, pick your favorite color and head out to play!

Strings: Comes unstrung
Why we like it: The Ripcord 100 280g is the middle weight option in the Prince Ripcord series. More developed players could opt for the heavier 300-gram version, or if you're looking for something that's super light and fast through the air, consider the 265-gram option. (The weights are for a racquet without their strings.) This Ripcord 100 280g offers a blend of power and stability, and with its 100-square-inch head size, it's great as you're game improves.

Strings: Comes unstrung
Why we like it: When you’re learning the game, you tend to hit the ball off-center, which typically leads to higher levels of shock and a drop in power. The O3 Legacy 120 sidesteps this problem with a very luxurious hitting area, punctuated by Prince’s time-tested O3 Technology, which produces excellent vibration dampening.

Strings: Comes unstrung
Why we like it: With a 115-square-inch head size, this Dunlop LX 1000 has a big hitting area. This racquet is loaded with technologies intended to help you have fun while learning the game. Players looking for high comfort and easy power should give this oversize racquet a serious look. Doubles players will love the added reach at net from the longer than standard frame and should also find some added power on serves.

Strings: Comes unstrung
Why we like it: Since its release, the Clash family has been known for its arm-friendly feel. The latest v3 version is more flexible than the outgoing version, which increases the soft feel. The Clash 108 is a great option for dedicated beginners looking to improve their game. We find this racquet, like the others in the Clash line, to offer outstanding comfort.