Racquet Review: Tecnifibre T-Fight 300 and 300S

• Price: $269
• Head Size: 98 sq. in. (300S); 100 sq. in. (300)
• Length: 27 in.
• Weight: 11.2 oz.
• Balance: 4 pts. HL
• Swingweight: 320 (300S); 317 (300)
• RA Rating: 65
• Beam Width: 22.5 mm
• String Pattern: 16x19

What’s New

For the latest T-Fight update, Tecnifibre looked to ramp up the swing speed, so the frame’s mass has been redistributed from both the handle and top of the hoop and pushed toward the throat of the racquet. This creates a more head-light balance and lowers the frame’s swingweight for smoother handling and increased acceleration through the hitting zone. The RS Section beam of frame—a combination of a round and square shape—has also been made 4% larger. This increases stiffness, makes the racquet sturdier and transmits more energy into the ball. The 300 also brings a new spec to the franchise: a 100 square-inch head size with a 300g weight.

What Works

Tecnifibre’s duo of T-Fight 300 racquets forms a lively pair. They whip through the strike zone like a breeze, producing ready power and ample spin. Contact feels crisp and clean with plentiful feedback. But before we get into too many details about their performance, some bookkeeping may be in order about their names.

The previous generation T-Fight 300 ISO is now the 300S. The “S” stands for its smaller 98 square-inch head size (any of the current T-Fight 98s now have an “S” in its name). Compared to the outgoing model, the current T-Fight 300 has a larger 100 square-inch head, combined with a 300g weight—a first time pairing in a T-Fight.

The smaller head of the 300S shrinks its sweet spot, but levels up the control. The 300 has a smidge more hitting surface, which expands the sweet spot slightly for extra forgiveness. It also spreads the strings a little more so there’s a bit more spin potential a little more launch for easier depth.

Otherwise, the frames have nearly identical specs. One subtle difference is the beam shape. To compensate for the lower swingweights, the beams on both have been reinforced. The 300 has a slightly different shape than the 300S—it’s the same thickness, but less angular—to increase stiffness and stability and give shots a bit more thump.

But for the most part these frames play very similarly. When compared to their competitors, these T-Fights have a more tempered disposition. They can produce effective pace and spin, but it’s not quite as extreme as other offerings. The feel is firm but never crosses into harsh. Because foam filling in the hoop is the primary vibration filter, the ball connection and feedback is more apparent than other models with elaborate dampening technology. You know what’s happening at contact—both good and not-so good—more than most, the tradeoff being other racquets can feel softer and more arm friendly.

Because the new T-Fights have been designed for greater maneuverability, swing speed becomes a more critical part of the hitting equation. The inherent power and spin potential of the frames take a backseat to how fast you can whip the head through the hitting zone. The constant beam isn’t overly stiff or thick for extra power, and there’s no reimagined grommet system or string spacing to create wicked spin. The racquets aren’t devoid of either characteristic, but they ask the user to carry more of burden than some of its competition.

This tips the T-Fights a little more toward the control end of the spectrum—especially the smaller 300S. It's noticeable on the serve or ground strokes without much incoming pace; the racquet does offer more assistance than a true control frame but isn’t overwhelming, which isn’t necessarily a drawback. It’s reassuring that you can take a big cut at the ball without fear of piling up errors. It also makes them more versatile and capable of exceling at different playing styles.

At net, the T-Fights’ quick handling and connected feel are real assets. It’s a breeze getting the frame into position, and the firm layup offers good stability and put-away power. The ball is in and out of the string bed quickly, but the feedback is still there to be able to apply touch and create delicate angles. All-court tennis and serious doubles are no problem with either model.

What Needs Work

The T-Fights are not uncomfortable, but they’re not cushy, either. Especially if you like to use a full bed of polyester strings. Those with easily aggravated arms or a preference for quieter, more dampened responses may not find these suitable.

Both play well in stock form and won’t need any modifications for most audiences. However, more advanced tournament players could potentially require a bit more weight in the head. The 300S at 305g would be an intriguing piece of equipment. Its 16x19 string pattern would be a nice alternative for players who want more pop and spin than the 18x19 configuration of the current 305S.

And, as always with Tecnifibre, they have the black licorice of grip shapes—the rectangular handle is an acquired taste. It can be rounded out somewhat with clever wrapping of an overgrip, but then you may lose some feel for the bevels. For most players, you either like it, or you don’t.

Bottom Line

The T-Fight line fancies itself as the perfect blend of power and control, and the new 300 and 300S models come pretty close. They may not excel in any one area, but check just about every box with their balanced performance.