The Blade 98 and the Ezone 98 are two of the most popular tennis rackets sold by Wilson and Yonex.
As both rackets share a lot of similarities, recreational players can often have a hard time deciding which of these rackets is best for them.
The aim of this article is to help players see the differences between the Blade 98 and the Ezone 98 in terms of racket specs, aesthetics, and playability.
Both rackets are endorsed by top players on the ATP and WTA Tours with the Blade 98 being endorsed by tennis pros like Stefanos Tsitsipas, Simona Halep, and Emma Raducanu while the Ezone 98 is endorsed by Nick Kyrgios and Naomi Osaka.
Comparison of the Wilson Blade 98 vs Yonex Ezone 98
For the purposes of this comparison, we will be comparing the Wilson Blade 98 V8* 16×19 (or “B98”) to the Yonex Ezone 98 2022 (or “E98”).
*The Wilson Blade 98 V9 is expected to be released in early 2024.
Racket Specs
The two rackets probably share more similarities than differences as they both have a 98 inch head size, a 16×19 string pattern, and a 27 inch racket length.
The rackets also have very similar strung and swing weights.
In terms of differences, the Ezone 98 is slightly more head light and is a more stiff frame when compared with the Blade 98.
The Ezone 98 also has a thicker beam width than the Blade 98 which means it will be easier to generate power with the Ezone 98.
| Blade 98 | VS | Ezone 98 |
|---|---|---|
| V8 | Version: | 2022 |
 | Design: |  |
| 98in | Head Size: | 98in |
| 27in | Length: | 27in |
| 320g (11.3oz) | Strung Weight: | 323g (11.4oz) |
| 5 pts HL | Strung Balance: | 6 pts HL |
| 317 | Swingweight: | 318 |
| 61 | Stiffness Rating: | 65 |
| 21mm | Beam Width: | 23.5mm / 24.5mm / 19.5mm |
| Braided Graphite | Composition: | Graphite |
| Green and Black | Colors: | Blue and Black |
| 16 Mains / 19 Crosses | String Pattern: | 16 Mains / 19 Crosses |
| 22-27kg / 50-60lb | String Tension Range: | 21-27kg / 45-60lb |
| Check Price on Amazon! | Price: | Check Price on Amazon! |
Racket Recommendations
If you are still not sure about which of these two rackets will be best for you then I have provided some recommendations based on different player types and skill levels below.
Beginners
I wouldn’t recommend either of these two rackets to a beginner as I think they are too heavy for the vast majority of beginners.
These rackets also have relatively small sweet spots so they are not ideal for players just starting out playing tennis.
I think a beginner would be better off going with a lighter tennis racket like the Wilson Clash 100L or the Yonex Ezone 100.
Intermediate Tennis Players
Both of these rackets could work for a good intermediate player but I would recommend the E98 over the B98 as I felt like it was a little more forgiving on off-center shots and it has a combination of power and control that would be more suited to intermediate tennis players.
Advanced Tennis Players
Advanced tennis players will most likely prefer the B98 over the E98 as it offers a little extra control and precision on your shots.
Also if you have a one handed backhand, then you will definitely prefer the B98.
Players with Tennis Elbow
Without question, the B98 is the better racket if you are worried about getting tennis elbow or you have had tennis elbow/arm issues in the past as I found it a very comfortable racket to play with.
Counter Punchers
If you are a counter puncher who likes to play from the baseline, then I think the E98 will be your best option for you as it will help you generate good power and spin and will be more forgiving on off center shots.
Net Rushers/Serve and Volley Players
Net Rushers and Serve and Volley Players may be becoming a rarer sight these days but they will definitely prefer the B98 as that extra level of control you get, makes volleys at the net very easy.