Best Kids Tennis Rackets for Beginners: 5 Picks Compared

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Choosing a first tennis racket is easier when it fits your child’s height and strength. A racket that is too long can be hard to swing, while a lightweight junior model with a generous hitting area can make early practice feel more manageable. These five beginner-friendly options range from compact toddler rackets to a 23-inch junior set, with details to help you compare size, construction, and included accessories.

Quick Comparison

Our Picks: Best Kids Tennis Rackets for Beginners reviews

AMA SPORT Kids Tennis Racket: Multiple Sizes for Growing Players

The AMA SPORT starter racket comes in several lengths, from 17 to 25 inches. That range gives families more choice than a single-size toddler racket, though you’ll need to select the right length for your child. The listing describes it as a lightweight frame with a large sweet spot, features that can help a beginner handle the racket and make contact during early practice.

A 420D nylon shoulder-strap bag is included, making it easier to carry the racket to a lesson or park. The brand also describes the line as designed around the ITF “PLAY + STAY” teaching philosophy. The product information does not give a height-based size chart, so check the selected size and your child’s fit before ordering.

Compared with the other options here, AMA SPORT stands out for its broad size range and playful youth focus. It may suit a household that wants to choose among several racket lengths, but the HEAD listing offers more specific age and height guidance for its sizes.

Pros:

• Available in five lengths from 17 to 25 inches
• Lightweight design intended for easier swinging
• Large sweet spot for beginner practice
• Includes a 420D nylon shoulder-strap bag

Cons:

• The supplied product details do not include a height-based sizing chart
• You’ll need to choose the correct size from the available options

Verdict: Choose the AMA SPORT if you want several racket lengths to choose from and value an included carry bag.

HEAD Instinct Junior: A Pre-Strung Racket with Clear Size Guidance

The HEAD Instinct Junior is a beginner-oriented aluminum racket that arrives pre-strung, so it’s ready for play without a separate stringing step. Its head-light balance is intended to support maneuverability and control, while the aluminum O-beam frame is built for regular practice and recreational use.

One practical advantage is the size guidance: the listing gives 21 inches for ages 4 and up and heights of 40–44 inches, 23 inches for ages 6 and up and heights of 45–49 inches, and 25 inches for ages 8 and up and heights of 50–55 inches. These are starting points, not a substitute for checking how comfortably your child can hold and swing the racket.

Unlike the 17-inch toddler options, this line is aimed at children ready for a longer junior racket. It is a particularly straightforward pick if you want a pre-strung model and product-specific height guidance. Its 21-inch version is described as a fit for ages 4–6, while the 23- and 25-inch versions accommodate taller, growing players.

Pros:

• Pre-strung and ready to use
• Three sizes with age and height recommendations
• Head-light balance is designed for comfort and control
• Aluminum O-beam construction for regular practice

Cons:

• Its smallest listed size is 21 inches, which may be too long for some very small beginners
• Does not include a bag in the supplied product details

Verdict: The HEAD Instinct Junior is a strong choice if your child fits its size guide and you want a pre-strung racket from a recognized tennis brand.

bo’weiqi 17-Inch Racket: A Compact Option for Toddlers

This 17-inch racket is made for very young beginners and has a lightweight aluminum-alloy frame. Its compact length is intended to be easier for small players to handle than a full-size adult racket. The product listing recommends it for children age 4 and under.

The racket has an approximately 66-square-inch hitting area, giving beginners a relatively broad target for making contact. The listing also describes larger string holes and shock-absorbing materials intended to support smoother hitting and reduce vibration. Those design details may be useful in casual practice, though they do not replace a good fit or age-appropriate instruction.

Compared with the INSUM 17-inch option, the bo’weiqi listing gives more detail about the hitting area and vibration-related design. The INSUM, in contrast, specifies a recommended height range and includes a cover with an adjustable strap. Check whether a cover or other accessories are included with the bo’weiqi racket before buying, as they are not specified in the supplied details.

Pros:

• Compact 17-inch length for young players
• Lightweight aluminum-alloy frame
• Approximately 66-square-inch hitting area
• Designed with shock-absorbing materials

Cons:

• Only one size is listed
• The supplied product details do not specify a carry bag or cover

Verdict: Consider the bo’weiqi if your child is a very young beginner who needs a short, lightweight racket with a large hitting area.

AboveGenius 23-Inch Set: A Lightweight Pick for Junior Beginners

The AboveGenius is a 23-inch aluminum-alloy racket listed for junior players around ages 6–8. At a stated weight of 8.2 ounces, it is designed to feel light in a child’s hand. Its slim cushioned overgrip and even balance are also intended to make it easier for young players to hold and swing.

The product description highlights a 90-square-inch head and high-elastic nylon strings, along with a triangle frame described as vibration-dampening. It also includes a kid-sized bag with separate pockets for the racket and tennis balls. These features make it a convenient choice for park practice or lessons, especially if you want storage included.

This is longer than the 17-inch toddler rackets and may be a better fit for a child who has outgrown those compact models. The listing does not provide a height range, so compare the racket’s length with your child’s reach and ability to swing it comfortably. It is not the most flexible choice if you need a smaller size.

Pros:

• Lightweight 8.2-ounce aluminum-alloy construction
• 23-inch length aimed at young junior players
• 90-square-inch head and slim cushioned overgrip
• Includes a bag with separate racket and ball pockets

Cons:

• Only a 23-inch size is specified
• The product details do not give a height-based fit guide

Verdict: The AboveGenius is worth considering for a beginner who fits a 23-inch racket and would benefit from a lightweight frame and organized carry bag.

INSUM 17-Inch Junior Racket: A Simple First Racket with a Cover

The INSUM is a 17-inch aluminum racket recommended for beginners ages 2–3 who are approximately 30–34 inches tall. Its short length and lightweight construction are intended to help toddlers hold and swing it during simple practice. The generous hitting area is another beginner-focused feature, giving a new player more room to make contact.

A matching cover with an adjustable shoulder strap is included for carrying and storage. The listing describes the racket as suitable for recreational play, beginner lessons, and family practice. It is a straightforward choice for a child starting with basic racket control rather than a young player who is ready for a longer junior frame.

Compared with the bo’weiqi, the INSUM provides a specific height recommendation and clearly lists the included cover. The bo’weiqi gives more detail about its hitting-area measurement and shock-absorbing materials. Both are 17-inch options, so your choice may come down to the fit guidance and accessories that matter most to your family.

Pros:

• 17-inch size recommended for ages 2–3
• Includes a height guide of approximately 30–34 inches
• Lightweight aluminum frame for easier handling
• Matching cover with adjustable shoulder strap included

Cons:

• Only one size is listed
• Its toddler-focused size may not suit a taller or more experienced junior player

Verdict: The INSUM is a practical first-racket option if your toddler fits the listed size guidance and you want a cover included.

How to Choose a Kids Tennis Racket for Beginners

Match the Racket Length to Your Child

Length is one of the most important factors for a beginner. A racket that is too long can be awkward to swing, while a very short one may not suit a taller child. Use the manufacturer’s age and height suggestions as a starting point, then consider whether your child can hold the grip and move the racket comfortably. Among these picks, HEAD and INSUM provide specific size guidance; AMA SPORT offers several lengths but the supplied details do not give a height chart.

Look for a Manageable Weight and Grip

A light racket can be easier for a child to lift and swing during practice. Grip comfort matters too: the child should be able to hold the handle securely without struggling to wrap their hand around it. The AboveGenius listing gives a stated weight of 8.2 ounces and describes a slim cushioned overgrip. For other models, check the product details and confirm the grip feels suitable if you can inspect it before use.

Consider the Hitting Area

A larger racket head can give a new player more room to make contact while learning basic coordination. The bo’weiqi lists an approximately 66-square-inch hitting area, and AboveGenius specifies a 90-square-inch face. Those numbers are useful for comparing the listed models, but racket size alone does not guarantee easier play. A racket still needs to be a comfortable length and weight for the child.

Check What Comes in the Package

Included accessories can make a starter racket easier to carry and store. The AMA SPORT includes a 420D nylon shoulder-strap bag, the INSUM includes a cover with an adjustable strap, and AboveGenius describes a bag with separate pockets for the racket and balls. HEAD is listed as pre-strung and ready to play. Confirm the package contents for the exact model and size you select.

Think About How Your Child Will Use It

For casual family play, a compact toddler racket may be enough to introduce basic swings and contact. A child attending lessons or practicing more often may benefit from a size that leaves room to develop, provided it is not too large to control. If you are unsure between two sizes, ask a coach or instructor to help check the fit before committing.

Choose Features That Support Beginner Practice

At the beginning, comfort and control matter more than advanced performance features. A pre-strung racket can save a setup step, while a light frame and beginner-friendly head size may make practice more approachable. Keep the decision simple: choose a racket your child can handle comfortably, then let regular practice build skill and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size tennis racket should a beginner child use?

It depends on the child’s height, reach, and comfort with the racket. Use the size guidance supplied with the specific model, then check that your child can hold and swing it without strain. The HEAD and INSUM listings provide age and height suggestions, while the other options offer less detailed fit guidance.

Is a 17-inch racket suitable for a toddler?

A 17-inch racket can be a suitable starting point for some toddlers. The INSUM is recommended for ages 2–3 and heights around 30–34 inches, while the bo’weiqi is described for children age 4 and under. Fit varies from child to child, so use those recommendations as a guide rather than a guarantee.

Should I choose a racket based on age or height?

Use both where possible. Age ranges can help narrow the choices, but children the same age can differ in height and strength. A racket that feels manageable in your child’s hands is more useful than choosing by age alone.

Do these kids’ rackets come pre-strung?

The HEAD Instinct Junior is specifically described as pre-strung and ready to play. The supplied details for the other models do not clearly state that they arrive pre-strung, so check the selected product listing if that detail is important to you.

Which option includes a bag or cover?

The AMA SPORT includes a nylon shoulder-strap bag, the AboveGenius includes a bag with separate pockets for the racket and balls, and the INSUM includes a cover with an adjustable strap. The supplied descriptions do not specify a bag or cover for the HEAD or bo’weiqi models.

Which racket is best for a beginner who is ready for a longer size?

The HEAD Instinct Junior comes in 21-, 23-, and 25-inch sizes with age and height guidance, while AboveGenius offers a 23-inch model with a stated weight of 8.2 ounces. Compare the child’s height and comfort with each product’s size information before choosing.

Final Recommendation

For a first racket, prioritize a comfortable fit over extra features. The HEAD Instinct Junior is the most straightforward option if your child matches its size guide and you want a pre-strung racket. For toddlers, the INSUM offers specific height guidance and a carry cover, while the bo’weiqi is another compact 17-inch choice with a listed large hitting area. Families who want more size options can consider AMA SPORT, and the AboveGenius may suit a young player ready for a 23-inch racket and included storage.