Yonex Tennis Racquets Explained

Racquet Lines

Yonex offers four lines of tennis racquets, including ASTREL, EZONE, VCORE, and PERCEPT, the latter of which replaced VCORE Pro in 2023 to create more of a distinction between VCORE racquets, which was a smart move.

Each line seeks to emphasize a distinct set of performance characteristics, while the models contained within the line offer varying specs such as weight, head size, balance, and string pattern to appeal to a broad range of players.

Below, I’ve included a high-level snapshot of what you can expect from each of Yonex’s racquet lines. In the following sections, I expand further with a more detailed description and comparison of the specs differentiating available models.

As you explore each racquet line, please note that the pros and cons are intentionally broad. As a result, some models within a line might perform better or worse in certain areas.

ASTREL

The Astrel line of tennis racquets is easily Yonex’s most accessible, with lightweight options that are easy to maneuver, larger head sizes for extra power and margin for error, and a special resin integrated into the frame to improve comfort.

As a result, these racquets are ideal for players who are steering clear of cheap tennis racquets and looking for a premium option that will serve as an excellent platform for learning the game.

The following three racquets make up the Astrel line, each with similar overarching performance characteristics but slightly modified specs to appeal to more players.

• Yonex ASTREL 115
• Yonex ASTREL 105
• Yonex ASTREL 100

At the top of the list, you’ll find the ASTREL 115, the lightest and most powerful frame in the lineup. It has an extended 26.75 in (67.95 cm) length for extra leverage, a large 115 in² (741.93 cm²) head size for easier targeting and raw power, and a featherlight 9.7 oz (275 g) strung weight for easy maneuverability. It also has an open 16×17 string pattern to help players produce more spin, making it an excellent option for beginners.

At roughly the same weight, the ASTREL 105 has a smaller 105 in² (677.42 cm²) head size and a standard 27 in (68.58 cm) length to reduce power while maintaining the same user-friendly characteristics as the ASTREL 1115.

Finally, the Yonex ASTREL 100 has the smallest head size of 100 in² (645.16 cm²) for even more control, and it weighs 10.4 oz (295 g) strung, giving the frame some extra stability that’s well-suited for players rising from beginner to intermediate.

Overall, the ASTREL line of racquets is a terrific entry point for players new to the sport and looking for a capable frame with plenty of room to grow into.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Power
• Comfort

Cons

• Control
• Stability

ASTREL Comparison Table

EZONE

The EZONE family of racquets is the most popular from Yonex, offering an extensive list of models and delivering excellent power and feel for well-balanced performance.

Within the line, you’ll find models that will work well for all levels, from beginners to advanced, including two signature models with custom paint jobs designed for Naomi Osaka.

• Yonex EZONE Ace
• Yonex EZONE Feel
• Yonex EZONE 110
• Yonex EZONE 105
• Yonex EZONE 100SL
• Yonex EZONE 100L
• Yonex EZONE 100*
• Yonex EZONE Game
• Yonex EZONE 98L
• Yonex EZONE 98*
• Yonex EZONE 98+
• Yonex EZONE 98 Tour

*These models are available with a custom Naomi Osaka paint job but feature identical specs and performance.

At the top of the list, you have lighter-weight options with the EZONE Ace, EZONE Feel, EZONE 110, and EZONE 105, all featuring larger head sizes, making them ideal starting points for beginners.

In particular, the EZONE Ace is an enticing user-friendly option for those looking to casually pick up the game without spending too much money, as it’s the least expensive of all Yonex adult-sized racquets due to its basic graphite construction. It also comes prestrung for added value.

The EZONE Feel has a similar spec range to the Ace but is lighter, featuring the lowest weight of all Yonex adult-sized racquets at 9.3 oz (264 g) strung and a slightly more open 16×18 string pattern to enhance power and spin. As a result, this frame is ideal for beginners and juniors transitioning to a full-size frame.

The EZONE 110 is one of three extended-length racquets in the line, with a large 110 in² (709.68 cm²) head size and an open 16×18 string pattern. These features combine for plenty of power, easy topspin generation, and give new players plenty of extra margin for error when swinging to hit the ball. Meanwhile, the EZONE 105 offers a slightly smaller head size, a bit of extra weight, and a thinner beam for marginally more control and stability. Both are solid options for beginners and early intermediates.

Moving down to the 100 in² (645.16 cm²) range, Yonex offers several options. The 100SL is the lightest of the four with terrific maneuverability, and it has the most open string pattern of 16×18, making it easier to generate spin, with the “S” standing for spin and the “L” standing for lightweight.

The 100L (light) has nearly all the same specs as the 100SL, but it’s a half ounce heavier at 10.5 oz (298 g) strung and has a 16×19 string pattern, which is still an ideal setup for spin but not quite as open as the 100SL. In both cases, these frames cater to early intermediates who require a lighter frame.

The EZONE 100 and 100+ offer nearly identical specs for intermediate and advanced tennis players. However, the 100+ is a half-inch longer, giving players extra reach and more leverage for generating extra power and spin. The standard-length EZONE 100 is one of the franchise’s best sellers, which boasts plenty of power, swings fast for topspin, and delivers an excellent feel.

Moving into the 98 in² (632.26 cm²) EZONE models, you’ll find a few additional control-oriented options geared toward intermediate to advanced players. Although their smaller head sizes require more skill and technique to use effectively, they reward players with added control and precision.

You have a lighter option with the EZONE 98L, two mid-range weighted options for more stability with the EZONE 98 and 98+, the latter offering extended length, and the heaviest option with the 98 Tour for advanced ball strikers. Out of the bunch, the EZONE 98 is the most popular, with its standard length and manageable yet appropriate weight that’s appealing for a wide range of players from intermediate to advanced.

Overall, the EZONE line is as robust as they come, with well-balanced frames that emphasize power and feel and excellent spin production for nearly every skill level and style of play.

Pros

• Power
• Feel
• Spin
• Control

Cons

• Stability
• Comfort

EZONE Comparison Table

VCORE

The VCORE line from Yonex offers a series of racquets with a spec range that caters primarily to experienced tennis players, emphasizing spin, stability, and controllable power.

Although there are fewer racquets than you’ll find in the EZONE line, four distinct models are available to choose from, ensuring plenty of options to meet the needs of a diverse set of players.

• Yonex VCORE 100L
• Yonex VCORE 100
• Yonex VCORE 98
• Yonex VCORE 95

At the top of the list, you’ll find the VCORE 100L, the lightest and most user-friendly option, which features a 100 in² (645.16 cm²) head size and a manageable 10.5 oz (298 g) strung weight. This racquet is an excellent option for intermediate players looking for a fast-swinging, spin-friendly frame that’s easy to maneuver.

The VCORE 100 is identical in nearly all aspects except its 22 grams heavier, resulting in a higher swingweight and a slightly different balance of 4 pts HL vs. 1 pt HL for the VCORE 100L. From a performance standpoint, these modifications result in a noticeably heavier feel and improved overall stability, which comes in handy when playing against higher-level players.

Moving to the VCORE 98, Yonex reduces the head size to 98 in² (632.26 cm²) and thins out the beam slightly to enhance control while improving comfort and feel. The racquet maintains its open 16×19 string pattern for excellent spin production, while a few extra grams in weight help retain optimal stability.

Finally, for maximum control, players can check out the VCORE 95, the heaviest model at 11.5 oz (326 g) strung with a small 95 in² (612.9 cm²) head size, thin beam, and tighter 16×20 string pattern to enhance precision. However, true to the line’s trademark characteristics, this frame delivers plenty of spin for its specs.

Ultimately, the VCORE line of racquets is an excellent option for players who demand outstanding spin, above-average stability, and controllable power for all court performance.

Pros

• Spin
• Stability
• Control

Cons

• Power
• Comfort

VCORE Comparison Table

Percept / VCORE Pro

Players looking for maximum control and precision from a Yonex racquet will find a compelling selection of high-quality frames in the newly rebranded PERCEPT line, previously VCORE Pro.

Like the VCORE series, these racquets are designed for strong intermediate to advanced tennis players with the experience and technique to get the most out of them while comfortably handling their above-average weight.

• Gravity Team
• Gravity MP
• Gravity Pro

At the top of the list, you’ll find the PERCEPT 100D, the most approachable racquet in the series, which has a moderate 100 in² (645.16 cm²) head size, manageable 11.3 oz (320 g) strung weight, and a flat 23 mm beam for controllable power. The frame also comes fitted with a spin-friendly 18×19 string pattern, making it an ideal option for intermediates looking to find their way into this line.

Next, the PERCEPT 97D has a smaller control-oriented 97 in² (625.81 cm²) head size, a thinner 21 mm beam, and a tighter 18×20 string pattern, resulting in less power and more precision. For added stability, the frame also jumps up 17 grams in weight to 11.9 oz (337 g) strung, making it one of the heavier frames on the market, ideal for heavy-hitting advanced players.

Finally, the PERCEPT 97H has all the same characteristics as the 97D, but it’s even heavier at 12.2 oz (346 g) strung and has a more open 16×19 string pattern for easier access to spin. Ultimately, it’s a low-powered control-centric frame that’s an excellent option for advanced players with the strength and technique to wield it.

The PERCEPT line of racquets offers a small yet attractive frame selection that is ideal for strong intermediate to advanced players looking to prioritize control and feel.

Pros

• Control
• Feel
• Stability
• Comfort

Cons

• Power
• Spin

PERCEPT Comparison Table

Kids and Juniors

The racquets we’ve discussed in the ASTREL, EZONE, VCORE, and PERCEPT lines are all at least 27 inches long, making them excellent options for adults. However, due to their size and weight, they’re not ideal for kids and juniors learning how to play.

Instead, Yonex offers a variety of tennis racquets for kids and juniors, which are appropriately sized and weighted for younger players, making it easier and more fun for children to learn.

When selecting a kids’ tennis racquet, the ideal size will correspond to your child’s age and height, with the length slowly increasing as they grow older. The following table outlines the appropriate size racquet for juniors.

As you explore available kids’ racquets from Yonex, you’ll notice that the price varies quite a bit between models. That’s primarily due to the construction and materials, with the cheapest options using inexpensive, lightweight, and durable aluminum.

When first getting started, aluminum is practical and an ideal starting point. However, as kids get older and their skills improve, using a graphite racquet will improve performance and feel and prepare them to transition to a full-sized adult racquet.

Therefore, some 25 and 26-inch models constructed with graphite from Yonex are more expensive and often worth the cost for younger players who are quickly developing and improving their skills.