Below is my comparison of the Wilson Blade 98 vs Blade 104 tennis rackets.
Both rackets are very popular with recreational players so if you are not sure which of these rackets will suit your game better then you have come to the right place as this article will compare the two rackets and provide recommendations for different player styles and skill levels.
The Wilson Blade 98 (or “B98”) and the Wilson Blade 104 (or “B104”) tennis rackets are regularly updated by Wilson with both rackets currently in their 8th generation (V8).
As these rackets are very popular with recreational players, Wilson usually plays it relatively safe and will not make massive changes from version to version.
Both rackets are endorsed by top players on the WTA and ATP Tours with the Blade 98 being endorsed by tennis pros Simona Halep and Emma Raducanu while the Blade 104 is endorsed by seven time grand slam winner Venus Williams.
Comparison of the Wilson Blade 98 vs Blade 104 V8
For this comparison, we will be using the 16 x 19 version of each tennis racket as the Blade 104 does not have an 18 x 20 version.
Racket Specs
Although cosmetically the two tennis rackets look very similar, when you look at their specs, you will see that they are very different rackets to play with.
The most obvious difference between the two rackets is the head size with the Blade 98 having a head size that is six inches smaller than the Blade 104.
This means the B98 will have a smaller sweet spot and will have less easy power than the B104.
One other big difference is the racket length with the B104 being half an inch longer than the B98.
Longer racket lengths generally suit players that use a two handed backhand as there is more room on the handle to hold your two handed backhand grip.
In terms of weight, the B98 is slightly heavier with a strung weight of 320g compared to a strung weight of 306g for the B104.
Both rackets have a swing weight of 317g and a similar headlight balance so both will be relatively easy to swing.
| Blade 98 16×19 | vs | Blade 104 16×19 |
|---|---|---|
| V8 | Version: | V8 |
 | Design: |  |
| 98in | Head Size: | 104in |
| 27in | Length: | 27.5in |
| 320g (11.3oz) | Strung Weight: | 306g (10.8oz) |
| 305g (10.8oz) | Unstrung Weight: | 290g (10.2oz) |
| 5 pts HL | Strung Balance: | 6 pts HL |
| 7 pts HL | Unstrung Balance: | 9 pts HL |
| 317 | Swingweight: | 317 |
| 61 | Stiffness Rating: | 60 |
| 21mm | Beam Width: | 22.5mm |
| Braided Graphite | Composition: | Braided Graphite |
| Green and Black | Colors: | Green and Black |
| 16 Mains / 19 Crosses | String Pattern: | 16 Mains / 19 Crosses |
| 22-27kg / 50-60lb | String Tension Range: | 22-27kg / 50-60lb |
| Check Price on Amazon! | Price: | Check Price on Amazon! |
Racket Recommendations
If you are still undecided on which of these two rackets will suit your game, I have listed some recommendations based on different player types and skill levels below.
Beginners
I really wouldn’t recommend either of these two rackets to a beginner but if you really wanted one of these rackets then the B104 would be the more appropriate racket for beginners as its bigger head size and lower strung weight will make it easier for beginners to hit with.
Intermediate Tennis Players
I would recommend the B98 if you are an intermediate tennis player with a one handed backhand and the B104 if you use a two handed backhand.
If you are an intermediate player that struggles to generate power on your shots, then definitely go for the B104.
Advanced Tennis Players
Advanced tennis players will definitely gravitate towards the B98 rather than the B104 as it offers way more control and precision on your shots.
The B98 is also great if you have a one handed backhand.
Tennis Players with Tennis Elbow
Both rackets have a relatively low stiffness rating at 61 for the B98 and 60 for the B104 but I would have to give the edge to the B98 as I think that little bit of extra weight will help with tennis elbow issues.
Counter Punchers
If you are a counter puncher who likes to play from the baseline, then I think the B104 will be your best option as it will help you generate easy power, spin and will be more forgiving on off center shots.
Net Rushers/Serve and Volley Players
Net Rushers /Serve and Volley Players will definitely prefer the B98 as it has that extra bit of control and precision needed to make those difficult volleys at the net.