Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka use racquets with an 18x20 string pattern—and you may want to consider it, too

Novak Djokovic uses one. So does Aryna Sabalenka. Along with the current world No.1s, many other touring pros and discerning players prefer racquets with 18x20 string patterns. The narrower string configuration offers a more predictable response and better ball connection for a heightened level of control. While often lower in power and spin potential, they offer greater confidence to play into tight spaces.

Traditionally more demanding and found in the hands of accomplished players, the latest models are getting increasingly user-friendly for a wider range of players. These are some of the best ones around.

Dunlop CX 200 Tour (18x20)

• Price: $149 (Purchase now at TennisShop.com)

With an old-school 95-square-inch head and stock leather grip, the CX 200 Tour is probably the most precise and demanding of this bunch. The small head size, thin beam and head-light balance make the racquet a blur through the hitting zone—which is appreciated, since it doesn’t possess much inherent power. It’s the type of racquet that is almost purely an extension of what a player brings to the court. If you’ve got the game, this racquet can show it off.

Head Gravity Pro 2023

• Price: $269 (Purchase now at TennisShop.com)

Head positions the Gravity as a more modern Prestige. The Pro is one of the best-feeling racquets around, yet it doesn’t sacrifice stability in the process. Its teardrop-shaped head elevates and widens the sweet spot in the upper portion of the hoop, where the modern player most frequently makes contact. The heft and Auxetic construction in the yoke affords the frame a sturdy and comfortable feel, particularly on off-center hits. It has the only 100 square-inch head size in this group, giving it a forgiveness not often found in this category.

Solinco Whiteout 305 Xtd (18x20)

• Price: $220

The latest addition to Solinco’s Whiteout family is something of a unicorn in the 18x20 club. In all my years testing racquets, I believe this to be the first one with extended length. Longer racquets generally turn up the volume on shots, which can also make them trickier to manage. Having a tighter string pattern tempers the wildness without limiting the added plow through and weight of shot. And the added brawn causes only a minor impact on handling, as it hides its bigger size (27.5 inches) well. As with the other Whiteout frames, the foam-filled hoop gives it a clean feel at contact, and there’s the option of interchangeable base plates to raise the static weight.

Tecnifibre TF40 305 (18x20)

• Price: $259 (Purchase now at TennisShop.com)

The TF40 line was originally introduced to celebrate Tecnifibre’s 40th anniversary. It was aimed at the brand’s core audience—serious players with serious game. The frames were so well-received that they continued on to a second generation. This latest has the R-Shaped beam section in the throat for enhanced stability, to accompany the foam-filling to filter out vibrations and foster a clean, crisp and classic response with good ball connection at contact. Its lower weight makes it attractive to players seeking a lighter frame, and those who like to customize. The striking cosmetic is an added bonus.

Wilson Shift 99 Pro

• Price: $269 (Purchase now at TennisShop.com)

Typically, 18x20 models have rather thin beams and softer flexes, but the recently introduced Shift franchise bucks this trend. Its fairly stiff and chunkier profile is constructed with innovative lateral bending properties to produce more lively and spin-laden shots. It has a crisper feel, and is intended for modern players who take big cuts looking to hit a heavy ball. Compared to these other models, the Shift is arguably the most powerful and baseline-centric.

Yonex Percept 97D

• Price: $259 (Purchase now at TennisShop.com)

The Percept picks up for the outgoing VCORE Pro family of frames. It has a new name, more graphite in the head and updated dampening technology, but maintains the racquet’s design focus of top-notch control and a connected feel. The 97D is the only 18x20 in the whole Yonex lineup, and delivers the precision and predictable response coveted by high-level players. At 320g unstrung, it has the heaviest static weight in this collection, but is quite manageable through the air. It has superb touch, especially up at net, making it a dependable all-court asset.