Specifications Explained
The measurable physical properties of a racquet can tell you a lot about how a frame might play before you ever pick it up. Here’s a glossary of the terms used across the site — what each one means, how it’s measured, and why it matters.
Head Size
in²The interior area of the string bed, measured in square inches.
Specified by the manufacturer. Refers to the area enclosed by the hoop where the strings are woven.
Larger head sizes produce a wider effective hitting zone and greater energy return on off-center impacts. Smaller heads concentrate the response area, yielding tighter directional control at the expense of forgiveness.
String Pattern
mains × crossesThe number of vertical (main) strings and horizontal (cross) strings woven through the frame.
Specified by the manufacturer. Main strings run top-to-bottom; crosses run side-to-side. Some frames are drilled for multiple pattern options in the same mold.
More open patterns (e.g. 16×19) allow greater string deflection on contact, increasing spin potential and producing a livelier ball response. Denser patterns (e.g. 18×20) restrict string movement, resulting in a flatter, more predictable trajectory and improved string durability.
Weight (Unstrung)
gramsThe mass of the frame and stock grip, without strings installed.
Manufacturer-specified unstrung weight. The values listed on this site reflect the unstrung number. Strung weight is typically 15–20g higher depending on the string and tension used.
Greater static weight increases stability on contact, improves plow-through on groundstrokes, and reduces transmitted shock. Lower weight allows faster racquet acceleration and easier repositioning, particularly at the net, but reduces stability against heavy incoming pace.
Length
inchesThe distance from the tip of the head to the end of the handle. The standard length is 27 inches (68.58cm).
Manufacturer-specified, measured from butt cap to tip. Extended-length frames (27.25" to 27.5") are not uncommon. The maximum length permitted in sanctioned play is 29 inches.
Additional length increases reach on serves and groundstrokes and adds leverage, contributing to higher racquet-head speed at the point of contact. The tradeoff is increased swingweight and reduced maneuverability, since moving mass farther from the hand amplifies rotational inertia.
Head size, string pattern, weight, length
Distributions reflect the current-generation performance racquets covered on this site. For details on how reviews are collected and summarized, see the Methodology page.