Tennis Racket Balance Calculator (Points Head Light / Head Heavy)
One balance point equals 1/8 inch (0.3175 cm). A racket is head-light (HL) if its balance point is closer to the handle than its midpoint, and head-heavy (HH) if it is closer to the head.
How balance fits with head size and stiffness is covered in how to choose a tennis racket.
Reading balance
| Balance | Plays like | Typical user |
|---|---|---|
| Head-heavy (HH) | More power and stability; slower to manoeuvre | Players with short, compact swings who want free depth |
| Even | All-round | Intermediate all-court players |
| Head-light (HL) | Quick at the net, more control; needs a faster swing for power | Advanced players with full swings, heavier frames |
Balance interacts with weight: a heavy frame is usually made head-light so it stays manoeuvrable, while a light frame is often head-heavy to add stability.
Padel translation: low balance works like head-light (round rackets), medium like even (teardrop), and high like head-heavy (diamond). Coaches can use this calculator to compare a player's tennis frame with a padel racket they're considering. See padel racket shapes.
Frequently asked questions
What does 4 points head light mean?
The balance point is 4 × 1/8 inch (0.5 in, 1.27 cm) closer to the handle than the racket’s midpoint.
How do I find my racket's balance point?
Balance the racket horizontally on a thin edge, such as a ruler on its side, and measure from the butt cap to the point where it balances.
Can I use this for a padel racket?
Yes. Enter the padel racket’s actual length (FIP maximum 45.5 cm). Padel brands usually describe balance as low, medium or high rather than in points. A lower balance point from the butt means low balance, and a higher one means high balance.