Sports & OutdoorsPublished: 1/19/2026

5 Best Tennis Rackets for Beginners in 2026

Forgiving oversize frames and affordable starter sets so you can rally longer, build confidence on contact, and enjoy your first season on court.

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Top 5 at a Glance

Quick comparison of our top picks

1
HEAD Ti.S6 Tennis Racquet

HEAD Ti.S6 Tennis Racquet

Best Overall
FivePicks Score
$99
2
Wilson Pro Staff Precision XL 110 Tennis Racket

Wilson Pro Staff Precision XL 110 Tennis Racket

Best Budget
FivePicks Score
$25
3
YONEX EZONE ACE Blast Blue Tennis Racquet

YONEX EZONE ACE Blast Blue Tennis Racquet

Best Premium
FivePicks Score
$110
4
Senston Tennis Rackets for Adults 27 inch

Senston Tennis Rackets for Adults 27 inch

Best Starter Set
FivePicks Score
$58
5
Teloon Tennis Rackets for Adults 2 pcs Recreational

Teloon Tennis Rackets for Adults 2 pcs Recreational

Best Value
FivePicks Score
$70
HEAD Ti.S6 Tennis Racquet
1
Best Overall

HEAD Ti.S6 Tennis Racquet

FivePicks Score

$99

Strengths

  • Large 115 sq. in. head is very forgiving
  • Helps generate depth with less effort
  • Good for building rally consistency
  • Comfortable feel for newer players

Trade-offs

  • Can feel too powerful for fast swings
  • Oversize head is less precise for advanced shot shaping

The HEAD Ti.S6 is a classic beginner pick because it makes clean contact feel easier and more consistent. The oversized 115 square inch head gives you a larger sweet spot, which helps reduce harsh vibrations and keeps the ball coming off the strings even when you are a little late or off-center. For new players learning timing, that extra forgiveness can mean longer rallies and quicker improvement.

Its head-heavy balance also helps you get depth without having to swing as hard, which is useful while you are still learning topspin and proper stroke mechanics. The trade-off is that the large head and extra power can feel lively if you already swing fast, so it rewards relaxed technique and smoother acceleration rather than trying to muscle the ball. If your priority is easy power and a confidence boost as you learn, this is one of the most beginner-friendly options.

Best for:First-time tennis playersPlayers who want easy depthBeginner doubles and casual hitting
Wilson Pro Staff Precision XL 110 Tennis Racket
2
Best Budget

Wilson Pro Staff Precision XL 110 Tennis Racket

FivePicks Score

$25

Strengths

  • Very affordable way to get started
  • Oversized head helps with clean contact
  • Pre-strung and ready to play
  • Durable alloy construction for casual use

Trade-offs

  • Less refined feel than graphite rackets
  • Not ideal for long-term progression if you play often

The Wilson Pro Staff Precision XL 110 is the simplest way to start playing without spending much. The oversized head is beginner-friendly because it reduces the penalty for off-center hits, and the pre-strung setup means you can take it to the court immediately. For casual lessons, occasional rallies, and early skill-building, it covers the basics well.

The alloy frame keeps the price low while still offering decent durability for recreational use. The main trade-off is that an entry-level alloy racket will not feel as refined as graphite options, especially as your swing becomes more consistent and you start generating your own pace. Still, for a low-risk first racket that makes learning approachable, it is an excellent budget pick.

Best for:First racket purchaseCasual recreational playBeginners who want a low-cost option
YONEX EZONE ACE Blast Blue Tennis Racquet
3
Best Premium

YONEX EZONE ACE Blast Blue Tennis Racquet

FivePicks Score

$110

Strengths

  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • 102 sq. in. head balances forgiveness and control
  • Helps beginners develop topspin and timing
  • Solid feel for a lighter racket

Trade-offs

  • Less stable against very heavy shots
  • Higher price than entry-level alloy options

The YONEX EZONE ACE is a strong step-up choice for beginners who want a racket they can grow into. The 102 square inch head gives you forgiveness without feeling oversized, and the lightweight 260 g build makes it easier to accelerate the racket for topspin and controlled direction. That combination is helpful once you start focusing on consistent swing paths and better footwork.

The head-heavy balance adds stability and helps the racket feel solid through contact, especially on slower swings. The trade-off is that very light rackets can feel less planted against heavy incoming pace, but most beginners will appreciate how easy it is to maneuver and how comfortable it feels during longer practice sessions. If you want a more premium brand feel and a racket that supports skill progression, this is a great pick.

Best for:Beginners planning to practice regularlyPlayers learning topspin mechanicsRecreational players who want a step-up racket
Senston Tennis Rackets for Adults 27 inch
4
Best Starter Set

Senston Tennis Rackets for Adults 27 inch

FivePicks Score

$58

Strengths

  • Two-racket bundle is convenient for partners
  • Lightweight feel is beginner-friendly
  • Good value compared to buying two separately
  • Easy way to start playing right away

Trade-offs

  • Less premium feel than graphite rackets
  • Specs are more general-purpose than performance-focused

The Senston set is a practical choice if you want a ready-to-play bundle for two people. A two-racket setup makes it easier to start playing immediately with a partner, and the included accessories help reduce extra purchases when you are just getting into the sport. For beginners, the lightweight aluminum alloy build can feel easier to swing and less tiring during longer practice sessions.

The trade-off is that sets like this prioritize convenience over the refined feel of a single higher-end graphite racket. If you already know you will play multiple times per week, you may eventually want a more performance-focused upgrade. But as a starter kit that makes it simple to begin lessons or weekend hitting, it delivers strong value for the money.

Best for:Couples and friends learning togetherOccasional recreational playBeginners who want an all-in-one starter setup
Teloon Tennis Rackets for Adults 2 pcs Recreational
5
Best Value

Teloon Tennis Rackets for Adults 2 pcs Recreational

FivePicks Score

$70

Strengths

  • Beginner-friendly head size and string pattern
  • Two-racket set works well for shared use
  • Solid balance of playability and price
  • Good for learning consistent swing paths

Trade-offs

  • Not as refined as a dedicated premium racket
  • Bundle approach may include extras you do not need

The Teloon 2-piece set is a good option if you want a more spec-forward beginner bundle without jumping to premium pricing. The mid-plus head size and 16x19 pattern are a common, forgiving setup for learning topspin and keeping the ball in play. It is also a practical pick for households that want two rackets available without buying separately.

The handle setup and included overgrip support can be useful for comfort, especially while you figure out what grip feel you prefer. The trade-off is similar to other bundles: you get convenience and a playable setup, but not the same crisp feedback or long-term refinement of a higher-end single racket. For many beginners, this is a smart middle ground that balances specs, price, and usability.

Best for:Beginners practicing with a partnerLearning topspin and rally controlValue-focused buyers who still want solid specs

Buying Guide

For beginners, the fastest way to enjoy tennis is choosing a racket that makes contact forgiving. Larger head sizes create a bigger sweet spot, which helps keep the ball in play while you are learning timing. A lightweight frame is easier to maneuver, especially for new players developing proper swings, but very light rackets can feel less stable against faster shots.

If you are buying your first racket, decide whether you want a low-cost starter, a bundle for two players, or a step-up option you can keep as your skills improve. Entry-level alloy rackets are affordable and durable for casual use, while graphite rackets typically feel smoother and support better control as you progress. Also pay attention to grip comfort, since a secure grip helps you swing freely without over-squeezing the handle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about our top picks

Often yes. An oversized head is more forgiving and helps you make cleaner contact, which usually leads to longer rallies and faster early improvement.

Lightweight rackets are easier to swing and can reduce fatigue, but extremely light frames may feel less stable. A light to moderate weight is usually a safe starting point.

No. A budget racket can be enough to learn fundamentals. If you start practicing regularly, upgrading later can improve feel and consistency, but it is not required to begin.