Racquet Review: Dunlop CX 200 (18x20) Limited Edition

• Price: $250
• Head Size: 98 sq. in.
• Length: 27 in.
• Weight: 11.4 oz.
• Balance: 7 pts. HL
• Swingweight: 311
• RA Rating: 65
• Beam Width: 21.5mm
• String Pattern: 18x20

What’s New

The CX 200 18x20 shares the same specs as the current CX 200, only with a denser string pattern. Like the other CX updates, string spacing has been widened in the center of the string bed (dubbed Powergrid Stringtech+) to give it enhanced spin potential and power. The hoop also now has more of a box shape at the 2 and 10 o’clock positions to improve the racquet’s stability and increase frame stiffness through the face and throat. The greater composure at contact makes for more accurate ball striking. A new vibration dampening material (Vibroshield) has been inserted at 3 and 9 o’clock positions on the face and in the throat area of the frame for a more comfortable feel at contact. This limited edition comes in a throwback cosmetic that pays homage to the classic Dunlop Max 200G.

What Works

The trappings of 18x20 string pattern frames—heightened control, dependable response, connected feedback—are less appealing in today’s game where power and spin have become the big dogs of performance. However, while perhaps less in vogue, there’s still a segment of players who prefer more refined, predictable racquets that set the stage for varied shot-making and tactics. Which is the playability you get with this new addition to Dunlop’s CX franchise—and the retro graphics and detailing will turn a few heads while doing.

As with the other 200s in the CX franchise—Dunlop’s control series—the 200 (18x20) doesn’t wow with power, which could be generously described as adequate. It’s larger hitting surface and thicker beam make it friendlier than the CX 200 Tour—the other member of the family with an 18x20 pattern—but it’s still for players who either crave total command over their shots, or have the mechanics and swing speed to generate most of their own pace.

Fortunately, the racquet’s weight distribution, slim profile and feathery swingweight are assets in that pursuit. Leaning into ground strokes and serves with full, fast cuts can result in authoritative shots that keep opponents on their heels. What’s more, the pace can be directed into tight windows as the frame’s control is first-rate. It allows users to go for their shots without much fear that the racquet will steer them wrong.

Like power, spin is mostly dependent on player skill. The updated Power Grid configuration widens the spacing of the cross strings to help the cause, but it’s still an 18x20. The tight pattern is capable of putting rotation on the ball, only it won’t add much to what you currently bring to the court. On the plus side, it stands out when flattening out passing shots and short ball put-aways.

The clean, borderline classic feel at impact from the medium-firm beam is also a real draw. Even with a full bed of polyester (Dunlop Explosive 17g) strung in the upper 40s, contact it’s comfortable and arm-friendly. A thin, rubber material (Flex Booster) has been added to the handle to help in this regard, and it seems to do the trick. Yet there’s plenty of ball connection to produce a delicate drop shot or gauge the distance on a block lob. Imperfect strikes above the sweet spot drew occasional twisting and a noticeable power outage, but there was little harshness or discomfort. And stability on the whole was surprisingly good for a racquet with its mass distribution.

The response, control and smooth handling all add up to solid net play. The racquet volleys so capably that it encourages more forays into the forecourt to finish points. As with ground strokes, you do need competent footwork and weight transfer to hit a penetrating volley when pace isn’t supplied by the passing shot. With those basics in place, there’s no problem punching a shot into the open court. When subtlety is desired, the flex is just enough to suck the life out of passes for a drop volley or finesse a tricky half volley from off the shoe-tops.

What Needs Work

The CX 200’s head-light balance and low swingweight help get the tip around quickly, but it also brings a lack of inherent muscle. At times the racquet can feel overwhelmed by heavy incoming traffic. Similarly, it seems like you need to work harder for your desired results. Players accustomed to the boost a stiffer, more powerful frame provides their shots could be a little underwhelmed by this racquet’s mph potential.

If you’re looking for a heftier feel, added pop and more sturdiness against pace, the frame’s specs make it ripe for customization. The static weight is fairly lean, and the balance and swingweight make additional mass quite manageable. Some lead around the hoop would help bolster the frame’s stability and give it some extra plow-through. It won’t transform the racquet into a rocket launcher, but if that’s what you’re after chances are this wouldn’t make your demo list in the first place.

Bottom Line

The 18x20 crowd is a shrinking one. But if you still appreciate the control and dependability of a tight string pattern, this CX 200 has a lot to offer.