Wilson has launched updated versions of two of its most popular performance frames — the Blade 98 (V8) and the Ultra 100 (V4) .
In this article, we break down the specifications of both rackets and compare them side-by-side to highlight the key differences in feel, power, control, and overall playability.
Wilson Blade 98 vs Ultra 100 Racket Specs Comparison
For this comparison, I’ve focused specifically on the V8 version of the Wilson Blade 98 and the V4 version of the Wilson Ultra 100 to ensure the specs reflect the most recent models in each line.
| Specs: | Blade 98 | Ultra 100 |
|---|---|---|
| Version: | V8 | V4 |
| Design: |  |  |
| Head Size: | 98in | 100in |
| Length: | 27in | 27in |
| Strung Weight: | 320g | 318g |
| Unstrung Weight: | 305g | 300g |
| Swing Weight: | 317g | 317g |
| Balance: | 5 pts HL | 4 pts HL |
| TW Stiffness Rating: | 61 | 70 |
| Power: | Low to Medium | Low to Medium |
| Player Level: | Advanced | Advanced |
| Beam Width: | 21mm/21mm/21mm | 24mm/26.5mm/25mm |
| Colors: | Green and Black | Blue and Black |
| String Pattern: | 16 x 19 | 16 x 19 |
| Main Skips: | 8T,8H | 8T,8H |
| Grip Type: | Pro Performance Grip | Pro Performance Grip |
Head Size & Forgiveness
The Ultra has a slightly larger head size, giving it a bigger sweet spot and more forgiveness on off-centre hits. The Blade is a bit more precise and control-oriented.
The Wilson Blade 98 (98in) has a head size that is two inches smaller than the Wilson Ultra 100 (100in), so the Ultra 100 will have more power, a bigger sweet spot, and be more forgiving on off-center shots.
Racket Length
The Blade 98 and Ultra 100 have a standard racket length of 27 inches.
Strung Weight
The stung weight of the Blade 98 (320g) is 2g heavier than the strung weight of the Ultra 100 (318g), but the difference is very small.
Both rackets would be considered to be relatively heavy tennis rackets.
Unstrung Weight & Swing weight
The Blade 98 has an unstrung weight of 305g, while the Ultra 100 has an unstrung weight of 300g, while both frames have a swing weight of 317g.
Balance
The Blade 98 has a 5 pts HL balance, while the Ultra 100 has a 4 pts HL balance, which will suit players who have a full swing and good technique.
Stiffness Rating
Stiffness is the most significant contrast. between the two rackets, with the Blade being more flexible, which means it offer a softer feel, better control, more comfort.
In contrast, the Ultra is considerably stiffer, which means it offers crisper response, more free power, and firmer feel.
Therefore, players sensitive to arm issues will generally find the Blade more comfortable.
Power
Both tennis rackets are low to medium powered tennis rackets, so they will be better suited to advanced tennis players who have developed a full swing and have good technique on their groundstrokes.
Player Level
As mentioned above, the Ultra 100 and Blade 98 are best suited to advanced players.
Beam Width
The Blade 98 (21mm) has a thinner beam width when compared with the Ultra 100 (24mm/26.5mm/25mm), so you will get more control from the Blade but more power from the Ultra.
String Pattern
Both tennis rackets have a 16 x 19 string pattern, which will help you to generate spin on your shots.
Grip Type
Both tennis rackets have a Wilson Pro Performance Grip, which is standard for most Wilson rackets.
Similarities
Both rackets share:
- 27-inch length
- 317 swing weight
- 16×19 string pattern
- 8T, 8H main skips
- Pro Performance grip
- Marketed toward advanced players
Quick Summary
The Blade 98 V8 offers control, feel, flexibility, and softer response, while the Ultra 100 V4 offers power, stiffness, larger sweet spot, and a more explosive response.