Tennis racket weight and balance explained
TenisRaketi Editör Ekibi · Updated October 2026
Short answer
A racket's weight is more than one number: balance and swingweight decide how heavy it feels in the head. For most adults 285–305 g unstrung with an even or slightly head-light balance is a good range.
In this guide
When people say racket weight they mean two separate things: how many grams it is on the scale and how heavy it feels when you swing. The second is decided by balance and swingweight. Two rackets can have the same weight, yet one can swing much more nimbly and the other much heavier.
Weight: unstrung and strung
Makers usually list weight unstrung. Strings, a bumper and the grip add about 15–20 g. So a racket listed at 300 g unstrung plays at about 315–320 g.
Class | Unstrung weight | Best for |
|---|---|---|
Light | 255–285 g | Beginners, short and relaxed swingers |
Medium | 285–305 g | Most club players |
Heavy | 305–330 g | Regular, fast swingers with good fitness |
Within the same weight class there are easier and harder rackets. The reason is balance and swingweight.
Balance
Balance is the distance of the racket's centre of mass from the butt end. On a 27-inch (68.6 cm) racket the exact middle is about 34.3 cm.
Balance | Value | Feel |
|---|---|---|
Head light | About 31.8–34 cm | The racket feels light, quick and nimble in the hand |
Even | 34–34.5 cm | In the middle, suits most players |
Head heavy | 34.5 cm and up | More power, a feeling of weight in the head |
In shops balance also appears as "HL" and "HH": 1 point is 1/8 inch, about 3.2 mm. 31.8 cm is about 8 points head light (8 pt HL) and 35.6 cm is about 4 points head heavy (4 pt HH).
Light rackets are mostly built head heavy, so the little weight sits in the head and adds power. Heavy rackets are mostly head light or even, which makes them easier to swing.
Swingweight
Swingweight is a measure of the resistance you feel when swinging the racket from the butt, usually given in kg·cm². Two rackets with the same grams and the same balance can have different swingweights, because the weight is distributed differently towards the head.
As a rule of thumb:
- About 280–300: Nimble, easy-swinging rackets.
- About 300–325: Most club rackets.
- About 325 and up: Powerful but physically demanding rackets.
Makers measure swingweight in different ways, so use the numbers only to compare rackets from the same source. Judge a racket by swinging it, not by a number alone.
Is a light racket easier?
Usually yes, but there is a limit. A very light racket (under 260 g) swings fast but vibrates on hard balls, passes more shock to the arm and cannot answer the ball steadily. A very heavy racket tires your arm by the end of the second set and breaks down your technique.
A practical rule: the heaviest racket you can swing comfortably without breaking your technique is usually the best.
Recommendation by level
- If you are new: 255–285 g, head heavy or even. The power comes from the racket and you spend less effort.
- If you are intermediate: 285–305 g, even or slightly head light.
- If you are advanced: 300–320 g, even or head light. Weight brings speed and control.
- If your arm hurts: Do not run to a very light racket. A slightly heavier, flexible racket absorbs vibration better. See the tennis elbow guide for more.
Changing weight afterwards
A racket's weight and balance can be adjusted with lead tape. Tape on the handle makes the racket more head light; tape on the head makes it more head heavy and stable. Even small amounts make a clear difference, so start with 2–3 g and test.
Common mistakes
- Buying a racket under 260 g because "light is easy". It vibrates on hard balls.
- Buying a pro's racket. Most are above 330 g and need fitness.
- Looking only at grams. You cannot compare two rackets without balance and swingweight.
- Forgetting the strings. Strung weight is 15–20 g above unstrung and shifts the balance slightly.
Read this alongside the general guide to choosing a racket and the head size guide.
Frequently asked questions
How many grams should a tennis racket be?
For most adults 285–305 g unstrung is a good range. Beginners can look at 255–285 g. The heaviest racket you can swing comfortably is usually best.
Head heavy or head light racket?
A head-heavy racket adds power and balances light rackets. A head-light racket is more nimble and controlled. Even or slightly head heavy suits a beginner; even or head light suits an advanced player.
What is swingweight?
It is a measure of the resistance you feel when swinging the racket from the butt. Two rackets with the same grams and balance can have different swingweights. A higher swingweight means more power and stability, a lower one more nimbleness.
How much heavier is a strung racket than an unstrung one?
Strings, a bumper and the grip add about 15–20 g.
Can I add weight to my racket later?
Yes. Lead tape adjusts weight and balance. Adding it to the handle makes the racket more head light, adding it to the head makes it more head heavy and stable. Start with small amounts.