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The good news: you absolutely don't need to spend $200 on a racket to play good tennis. The under-$100 category has improved dramatically — modern materials and manufacturing mean budget frames now play far above their price. Here are the three we'd actually recommend.
Our Picks Under $100
1. Wilson Tour Slam (~$30)
Wilson Tour Slam Adult Strung
The quintessential beginner racket. 112 sq in head, 267g, oversized sweet spot. Pre-strung with synthetic gut and ready to use. If you're brand new to tennis and want to try it without risk, this is the frame to buy.
Check Price on Amazon2. Head Ti.S6 (~$40)
Head Ti.S6
If maximum forgiveness is your goal, the Head Ti.S6 wins outright. The 115 sq in head is the biggest on this list. Titanium-fused graphite frame keeps weight to just 232g — incredibly easy to swing. Great for players with arm sensitivities or anyone who wants a comfortable learning experience.
Check Price on Amazon3. Babolat EVO Drive Gen 2 (~$75)
Babolat EVO Drive Gen 2
The best racket under $100, full stop. Built on the legendary Pure Drive platform. 102 sq in gives you more control than the oversized beginner frames while still being very forgiving. At 270g strung it's easy to handle. This racket won't just survive your beginner phase — it'll carry you well into intermediate play.
Check Price on Amazon Full racket comparisonUnder $100, the Babolat EVO Drive Gen 2 is the standout. At $75 you're getting genuine performance DNA at a fraction of the full Pure Drive cost. If you're on a tight budget, the Head Ti.S6 at $40 is the most forgiving option on the market.
What to Expect Under $100
At this price range you should expect:
- Pre-strung with basic synthetic gut — functional, not exceptional. Strings will lose tension within a few months.
- Lighter frames — most are 240–280g, which is excellent for beginners and recreational players.
- Larger sweet spots — forgiving on mishits, which matters most when you're learning.
- Less customizability — you won't be adding lead tape or experimenting with tension on these frames.
What you won't get: the precise feel, vibration dampening, or response characteristics of a $200+ performance frame. But here's the thing — as a beginner, you won't notice the difference. Focus on technique first; upgrade the gear when your shots are consistent.
FAQs
Is a $75 racket good enough for competitive play?
For recreational and club-level play, absolutely. The Babolat EVO Drive Gen 2 is a perfectly capable racket even against advanced recreational players. Where you'll notice the ceiling is at the higher NTRP levels (4.5+) where string response, frame stiffness, and weight become more significant factors.
Can I string a budget racket at a local shop?
Yes. A local stringer can restring any frame. Expect to pay $15–30 for budget strings plus the labor. This is worth doing every 6–12 months if you play regularly — fresh strings make a noticeable difference to feel and control.
Should I buy used or new?
Under $100, buy new. A used performance racket that was previously $200 can be a great deal, but inspect carefully for cracks or damage to the frame — especially near the throat. For sub-$100 new rackets, you know exactly what you're getting.