Control rackets are designed for players who prioritize precision and accuracy over power. They typically feature a smaller head size (95–100 square inches), a denser string pattern, like 18×20, and a heavier weight (10.8 ounces or more). These features give the player better feel and control but require good technique and strength to get the most out of them.
🌪️ If you are interested in spin rackets, you can read more about them here.
🚀 If you are interested in power rackets, you can read more about them here.
⚖️ If you are interested in all-around rackets, you can read more about them here.
- Who Should Use Power Rackets?
- Specifications
- Pros and Cons of Control Rackets
- Control Racket Examples by Tennis Brands
- Control Racket Prices?
- Where Should I Buy Power Rackets?
- Read More
Who Should Use Power Rackets?
Control rackets are a good choice for more experienced players, such as intermediate and advanced levels, because they offer better precision and help adapt to different types of shots. However, due to their features—like a smaller head size and heavier weight—they can be more difficult to play with. These rackets require good technique and timing to use effectively.
One of the biggest challenges with control rackets is that they don’t generate much power on their own. This means the player needs to be able to create their own power through proper swing techniques and strength.
Specifications
Smaller Head Size
Control rackets usually have a smaller head size, typically between 95 and 100 square inches. With a smaller head, contact with the ball feels more direct and less dampened compared to larger head sizes. This enhanced ball feel allows players to control their shots better and make more precise adjustments during play.
Dense String Pattern
A dense string pattern, such as 18×20, allows less string movement, creating a firmer and more solid contact when hitting the ball. Because the strings don’t flex as much as they do in open string patterns, there’s less variation in how the ball comes off the racket. This leads to more consistent shot placement and better control on the court.
However, because the strings don’t flex as much, control rackets offer less spin potential. Generating spin with a control racket is still possible, but it requires solid technique and a clean swing from the player.
Heavier Weight
One of the key features of control rackets is their heavier weight. A good control racket typically weighs around 11.1 ounces (315 grams). This extra mass adds stability, providing more weight behind each shot for a solid and controlled feel. However, the added weight also makes the racket less agile and harder to maneuver, as it takes more strength to swing and accelerate. It also affects timing—because the racket is slower to accelerate, players need to prepare their strokes earlier to hit effectively and cleanly.
Thinner Beam
Control rackets typically have a thinner beam (the frame of the racket), which works together with the smaller head size. With less mass in the frame, the ball contact is less dampened, providing a more pure and direct feel when hitting the ball. However, this thinner beam results in less power and can feel rougher for some players, as it lacks the mass and stiffness found in thicker beam rackets.
Pros and Cons of Control Rackets
Pros
Cons
Control Racket Examples by Tennis Brands
| Brand | Racket Series |
|---|---|
| Wilson | Pro Staff 🟤 |
| Babolat | Pure Strike 🔴 |
| Head | Prestige 🔴 |
| Yonex | Percept 🟢 |
| Dunlop | Srixon CX 🔴 |
| Diadem | Elevate 🔵 |
Control Racket Prices?
Control rackets are typically priced higher than other racket types due to their use of advanced technologies and heavier weight (which increases material costs). A quality control racket usually costs between $240–$360 (€220–€330), which is more than the average price for a good tennis racket.
Where Should I Buy Power Rackets?
Control rackets can be bought from your local tennis club or online stores such as:
The US 🇺🇸
Europe 🇪🇺
