Yonex EZONE 100 vs 98 Comparison
Choosing a tennis racquet isn’t just about specs — it’s about finding a frame that matches the way you play. And when it comes to balancing power, control, and comfort, few racquet families do it better than the Yonex EZONE series.
For years, Yonex has refined the EZONE line to be that perfect “do-it-all” option for players who want a racquet that’s powerful but still easy on the arm. Two of its most popular models — the EZONE 100 and EZONE 98 — share a lot of the same DNA, yet deliver completely different on-court experiences.
So, which one’s for you?
If you’ve ever found yourself torn between the 100’s effortless power and the 98’s laser-like precision, this guide will help you decide. We’ll walk through how each racquet is built, how they perform, and which type of player will get the most out of them — all explained in a simple, player-first way.
I. Getting to Know the EZONE Series
When it comes to tennis racquets that mix comfort, power, and control, the Yonex EZONE line has carved out a reputation for being one of the best all-around families on the market. Whether you’re an ambitious intermediate or a seasoned competitor, these racquets have something special going on.
At the core of every EZONE is Yonex’s signature ISOMETRIC head shape, which expands the sweet spot so even slightly off-center hits still feel solid. Inside the handle, Yonex adds VDM (Vibration Dampening Mesh) — a fancy way of saying there’s a soft, vibration-filtering layer built in to keep your arm comfy. These two features give every EZONE its unmistakable smooth, plush feel.
While all EZONE racquets share this DNA, the real story begins when you compare the EZONE 100 and EZONE 98 — two siblings built with very different personalities. On paper, they look almost identical, but on court, they tell completely different stories.
A. Where the EZONE Fits In
The EZONE series is all about delivering easy, controllable power for a wide range of players. It’s designed to give you a little extra pop without losing control of where the ball’s going.
Both the EZONE 100 and EZONE 98 live under this same philosophy but point in slightly different directions. The EZONE 100 is the “friendly powerhouse” of the family — easy to use, lively, and forgiving. Meanwhile, the EZONE 98 is more of a “precision tool” built for players who crave feel, control, and responsiveness above all else.
That’s why you’ll often hear players say both racquets are great for attacking baseliners — but depending on your skill level and playing style, one will definitely feel more “you” than the other.
B. The Big Trade-Off: Power vs. Precision
Here’s the heart of the EZONE story. Choosing between the 100 and 98 really comes down to what kind of player you are — and what kind of feedback you want from your racquet.
The EZONE 100 is built for those who want accessible power, easy spin, and plenty of forgiveness. It’s the classic “tweener” racquet that helps you do a lot with less effort — ideal if you like hitting deep, fast balls without swinging like a pro.
The EZONE 98, on the other hand, is a racquet for players who bring their own power. It doesn’t give you as much free help, but what it offers instead is pinpoint control, cleaner feedback, and a quicker response — exactly what experienced or tournament players usually look for.
In short, the EZONE 100 makes tennis feel a bit easier, while the EZONE 98 makes tennis feel a bit more precise.
II. How They’re Built Differently
To really understand how the EZONE 100 and EZONE 98 perform on court, you need to look at what’s going on inside the frame — the weight, balance, shape, and even how the mass is distributed. At first glance, they might look like twins, but under the hood, they’re tuned for totally different personalities.
A. Specs That Tell the Story
The EZONE 98 is just a touch heavier on paper — about 305 grams unstrung, compared to the EZONE 100’s 300 grams. Not a huge gap, but enough to make a difference in feel. Interestingly, both racquets have the same swing weight, usually around 318–320, meaning they feel equally easy to maneuver once you start swinging.
As for head size, the numbers (100 sq. in. vs. 98 sq. in.) sound like a big deal, but the actual difference in hitting area is tiny — roughly ⅛ inch. What matters more is how Yonex shapes and builds each racquet.
The EZONE 98 features a thinner beam (around 23.5–24.5–19.5mm), which makes it more flexible and aerodynamic — great for fast, precise strokes. The EZONE 100, on the other hand, uses a thicker beam, giving it more built-in power and stability.
Both racquets share the same high-end carbon blend (2G-NAMD SPEED / HM Graphite), which keeps them light, strong, and responsive.
Table 1: EZONE 100 vs. EZONE 98 Key Specs (Approx.)
| Specification | EZONE 100 (Approx.) | EZONE 98 (Approx.) | What It Means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Head Size | 100 sq in / 645 sq cm | 98 sq in | Bigger sweet spot, more forgiveness |
| Unstrung Weight | 300g (10.6 oz) | 305g (10.8 oz) | Slightly heavier for extra stability |
| Swing Weight | ~318–320 | ~318–320 | Feels equally maneuverable |
| Stiffness (RA) | Lowered in 2022 | Slightly lower | 98 feels softer and more controlled |
| Twistweight (MOI) | ~15.02 (Higher) | ~14.03 (Lower) | 100 resists twisting better |
| Beam Width | Thicker | Thinner | 100 = power, 98 = feel and control |
B. How the Weight Is Spread Out
The biggest difference isn’t just the weight — it’s where the weight is placed. Even though the EZONE 98 is 5 grams heavier overall, it actually swings the same as the 100. That’s because Yonex puts more of that extra mass closer to the handle. This makes the EZONE 98 more head-light, giving it that fast, whip-like feel that advanced players love.
The EZONE 100 distributes more of its mass toward the racquet’s head, making it less head-light and giving shots more natural punch and stability. That design choice makes the 100 ideal for players who want the racquet to do more of the work for them.
So in simple terms:
- The EZONE 98 feels quicker and more connected, perfect for confident, fast swings.
- The EZONE 100 feels solid and powerful, great for players who want easy depth and less physical effort.
C. Why Twistweight Really Matters
Another key number to look at is Twistweight, or rotational inertia. This measures how much the racquet resists twisting when you don’t hit the ball dead center (like off the 3 and 9 o’clock zones).
Here’s where the EZONE 100 shines — its higher Twistweight (around 15.02) means it’s far more stable on off-center hits, while the EZONE 98, at about 14.03, is a bit less forgiving.
That extra stability gives the 100 a “steady as a rock” feel when you’re defending or hitting slightly off target. It absorbs the shock, keeps your shots consistent, and gives you a bigger margin for error. The 98, while more responsive, demands cleaner contact for the same consistency.
In short:
The EZONE 100 forgives your mistakes; the EZONE 98 rewards your precision.
III. How They Play on Court
When you strip away all the numbers and specs, what really matters is how each racquet performs when you’re rallying, serving, or grinding through a long match. The EZONE 100 and 98 may share the same DNA, but the way they deliver power, control, and spin couldn’t be more different.
A. Power and Forgiveness: Who Does the Heavy Lifting?
If you want effortless power, the EZONE 100 is your best friend. It’s designed to give you that “free depth” — the kind of easy pop that helps you push opponents back even when you’re not swinging full speed. The thicker beam, slightly bigger head, and higher twistweight all combine to make it super forgiving. Even when your timing’s off, the ball still jumps off the strings with solid pace.
Many players describe the 100’s power as “more than enough” — sometimes even too much if you’re not careful with your swing. It’s the racquet that lets intermediate to advanced players hit big without having to muscle the ball.
The EZONE 98, meanwhile, plays it differently. It has less built-in power and expects you to generate more of your own. In return, it gives you tighter control and a more predictable response. The ball doesn’t rocket off the strings unless you really commit to your swing — which is exactly what skilled players love.
Think of it this way:
- EZONE 100: You get power on tap.
- EZONE 98: You earn every bit of it.
B. Ball Flight and Launch Angle: Higher vs. Flatter
One of the clearest differences between these two racquets is how the ball leaves the stringbed.
The EZONE 98 produces a lower, flatter trajectory, giving your shots that piercing, controlled flight path. That comes from its tighter string pattern and thinner, more flexible beam. It’s great for players who like to drive through the court and hit close to the lines.
The EZONE 100, on the other hand, tends to launch the ball higher, creating a naturally loopier shot with more net clearance. This is perfect if you like to rally with heavy topspin or prefer a margin of safety over the net.
That said, if you swing too flat with the 100, its extra power can make balls sail long — so spin management becomes key.
In short:
- EZONE 98: Flatter, more direct shots.
- EZONE 100: Higher, spinnier, more forgiving trajectories.
C. Spin and Stringbed Behavior
Both racquets have excellent spin potential, but they go about it differently.
The EZONE 100 is the more spin-friendly of the two, thanks to its slightly larger head and wider string spacing. Yonex’s Liner Tech grommet system also helps the strings move more freely, letting them “snap back” to generate extra spin. That’s great for players who use topspin to control depth and shape their shots.
The EZONE 98, by contrast, has a tighter string pattern that favors precision-based spin — meaning it doesn’t give you tons of free rotation unless you really accelerate your swing. It’s more about control-oriented spin: you decide how much to apply, and the racquet executes faithfully.
If we were to summarize the difference:
- EZONE 100: Easier spin, more margin, and power control through topspin.
- EZONE 98: Controlled spin for precision hitters who create their own speed.
IV. Comfort, Feel, and Stability: The EZONE Experience
One thing that makes the EZONE family stand out is how comfortable it feels, even for a power-oriented line.
While many racquets in this category can be stiff or harsh on the arm, Yonex has done an excellent job balancing strength with softness.
Both the EZONE 100 and EZONE 98 deliver a blend of plush feel and controlled feedback that players with sensitive arms truly appreciate.
A. Built for a Smooth, Comfortable Hit
Both models share the same smart design features that make the EZONE line so easy on the arm. The star of the show here is VDM (Vibration Dampening Mesh) — a special layer of flexible mesh wrapped around the handle’s graphite core. It works like a filter, soaking up harsh vibrations before they reach your hand. That’s why even when you mishit a ball, you don’t get that unpleasant “shock” that some other racquets give.
Another clever innovation is Liner Tech, Yonex’s system of straight-hole grommets that optimize string spacing. This makes the stringbed more forgiving on off-center hits and slightly enlarges the sweet spot. Together, these two technologies help make every shot feel smoother, softer, and more connected.
In short: the EZONEs give you power without punishing your arm for it.
B. Stiffness and Arm-Friendliness
In older versions, the EZONE 100 had a reputation for being on the stiffer side. But that changed with the 2022 update, where Yonex intentionally lowered the frame’s stiffness. The result is a noticeably more balanced racquet that’s powerful yet easy to handle — and a lot kinder to your elbow.
The EZONE 98, meanwhile, has always had a slightly softer, more flexible feel. It’s a little less “crisp,” but it gives excellent feedback and connection with the ball — especially when paired with a comfortable string setup.
If we’re comparing the two directly:
- EZONE 100: Feels firmer and a bit crisper, but still very arm-friendly.
- EZONE 98: Feels softer and more buttery, with a touch more feedback.
It’s worth noting that even players who’ve struggled with tennis elbow often find both of these racquets to be surprisingly forgiving — especially when strung at moderate tension with a softer polyester or hybrid setup.
In essence, the EZONE 100 gives you a comfortable power boost, while the EZONE 98 rewards you with that classic, connected feel many advanced players crave.
V. How They Perform in Real Matches
Specs are great, but what really matters is how a racquet behaves when you’re deep in a rally, trying to place a serve, or blocking a volley at the net. Here’s how the EZONE 100 and EZONE 98 differ once the match gets underway.
A. Groundstrokes: From the Baseline
From the baseline, the EZONE 100 makes it easy to hit deep, consistent shots — even when you’re off balance or on the defensive. Its higher stability (thanks to that beefier twistweight) means the racquet doesn’t twist much when you make contact, so the ball keeps a solid pace and depth even on less-than-perfect swings. This makes the 100 an ideal choice for long rallies or for players who like to grind from the back of the court.
The EZONE 98, on the other hand, is all about precision and control. It’s for the player who wants to drive through the ball, flatten out shots, and aim for tight targets. The racquet’s slightly heavier feel and thinner beam make it a surgeon’s tool for hitting clean, penetrating groundstrokes.
In simple terms:
- EZONE 100: Helps you stay consistent and powerful from the baseline.
- EZONE 98: Helps you attack with surgical precision.
If your game is built around consistency and margin, the 100 will feel like a trusty ally. But if you love dictating points and threading the lines, the 98 will reward your confidence and timing.
B. Serving: Power vs. Placement
When it comes to serves, the EZONE 100 gives you that extra “pop” right away. It’s naturally powerful, making it easier to hit fast first serves or high-kicking second serves without straining your arm. Its higher launch angle and spin-friendly design also let you swing freely while keeping the ball in play.
The EZONE 98, by comparison, requires a bit more effort to generate the same speed, but it pays you back with accuracy. Its more compact sweet spot and controlled power help you paint the corners and vary your placements with confidence.
So on serve day:
- EZONE 100: Easier power and spin, great for effortless serving.
- EZONE 98: Sharper placement, ideal for players who like to hit their spots.
If you rely on pace and consistency, the 100 has your back. If you’re a placement-focused server who likes to mix spins and directions, the 98 feels incredibly dialed in.
C. At the Net: Volleys and Touch
At the net, things get interesting. The EZONE 98, being a bit more head-light, feels faster and more maneuverable during quick exchanges. It reacts instantly when you’re trying to punch away a volley or reach for a low ball. Advanced players often love this “quicker” response because it lets them make subtle adjustments with ease.
The EZONE 100, meanwhile, offers rock-solid stability — especially against heavy incoming shots. It may feel a touch bulkier, but when you block a fast ball, it absorbs pace beautifully and keeps your volley on line.
So in volley battles:
- EZONE 98: Faster hands and sharper reactions.
- EZONE 100: More stable and forgiving on impact.
If you’re a doubles player who spends a lot of time at the net, you might even find that the choice comes down to personal rhythm: the 98 for finesse and quickness, the 100 for steadiness and confidence.
In short:
Both racquets shine across the court — the EZONE 100 gives you that effortless power and stability, while the EZONE 98 delivers surgical control and touch. The right choice depends on whether you want your racquet to help you more, or follow you more closely.
VI. Which One Fits You Best
Now that we’ve covered how the EZONE 100 and 98 play, the big question is: which one should you actually choose? The answer depends on your style, experience, and what you want your racquet to do for you. Let’s break it down.
A. Who Should Play the EZONE 100
If you’re an intermediate to advanced player (around NTRP 3.5–5.0) who values easy power and forgiveness, the EZONE 100 is likely your match. It’s built for players who want a racquet that feels lively, consistent, and effortless from the baseline — something that helps you stay in control even when fatigue starts to set in.
The EZONE 100’s generous sweet spot and higher twistweight mean you’ll get solid results even when your timing isn’t perfect. It’s also great for players who rely on topspin to control their shots.
In short:
✅ You like hitting deep, powerful groundstrokes without overswinging.
✅ You want a racquet that stays stable when you’re stretched wide.
✅ You prefer comfort and easy depth over demanding precision.
If you want a racquet that “does a bit of the work for you,” the EZONE 100 delivers — and it does so without feeling clunky or stiff.
B. Who Should Play the EZONE 98
The EZONE 98 is for the player who doesn’t want any help — and doesn’t need it. It’s a true player’s frame, designed for those who can generate their own power and want to fine-tune their control.
If you already swing fast, hit clean, and aim for precise targets, the EZONE 98 will feel incredibly rewarding. The thinner beam and tighter string pattern give you pinpoint accuracy, and the flatter trajectory lets you attack the lines confidently.
This racquet fits:
✅ Advanced players or competitive juniors (around NTRP 4.5 and above).
✅ Players who generate their own pace and want ultimate control.
✅ Those who prefer a connected, “one with the ball” kind of feel.
If you’re the type of player who enjoys shaping every shot intentionally — not just keeping the ball in — the EZONE 98 will feel like an extension of your arm.
C. Customization and Stringing Tips
No matter which racquet you pick, how you string it can make a big difference.
For the EZONE 100, the racquet already packs plenty of power, so you’ll want a control-oriented string setup. A polyester string like Yonex Poly Tour Pro at 50–53 lbs keeps the ball flight in check and adds a little extra spin. This helps you tap into the 100’s power without losing control.
For the EZONE 98, you can experiment more with customization. Some advanced players like to add a few grams of lead tape (around 2–4 grams) at 3 and 9 o’clock to give it more stability and “plow-through” without sacrificing maneuverability. This tweak makes the 98 feel even more solid on heavy hits.
If you prefer a softer, more arm-friendly setup, hybrid strings (poly main + multi cross) also pair beautifully with both frames.
Table 2: Playability and Feel at a Glance
| Attribute | EZONE 100 | EZONE 98 | What It Means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | High – easy depth | Medium – requires swing speed | The 100 gives you free power, the 98 makes you work for it |
| Forgiveness | Very high | High | The 100’s higher twistweight makes off-center hits more stable |
| Launch Angle | Higher / more lift | Lower / flatter | The 98 gives you a lower, more controlled trajectory |
| Precision | Good | Excellent | The 98 rewards precise ball striking |
| Static Weight | 300g | 305g | The 98 adds weight closer to the handle for speed and control |
In short, the EZONE 100 is about effortless performance, while the EZONE 98 is about absolute precision. Both are top-tier racquets — you just need to pick which philosophy fits your game.
VII. Final Thoughts and Recommendations
At the end of the day, both the Yonex EZONE 100 and EZONE 98 represent the very best of Yonex’s design philosophy — blending comfort, power, and feel in two slightly different directions. They share the same technological backbone and that trademark plush sensation, but how they deliver it on court is what sets them apart.
The EZONE 100 is the easier racquet to pick up and play with. It’s built for players who want accessible power, forgiveness, and stability in every shot. Its higher twistweight and bigger sweet spot mean it feels rock-solid even when contact isn’t perfect. It’s the racquet that helps you stay consistent deep into long matches — and one that makes tennis just a little bit easier on tired arms.
The EZONE 98, by contrast, is the racquet for players who already bring their own power and want surgical control. It’s lighter in the head, quicker through the air, and offers that pure, precise connection to the ball that advanced players crave. While it’s slightly less forgiving, it’s incredibly rewarding when your timing is on point.
Ultimately, your choice shouldn’t come down to just the two square inches of head size, but rather your style and skill level:
- If you value effortless power and forgiveness, go with the EZONE 100.
- If you crave accuracy, feel, and control, the EZONE 98 is your weapon of choice.
Both racquets deliver the premium comfort that Yonex is known for — so whichever one you pick, you’re getting a frame that’s kind to your arm, dependable under pressure, and built to perform at a high level.
So, in short:
🎯 EZONE 100 – Play easier, hit bigger, stay confident.
🎯 EZONE 98 – Swing fast, aim sharp, feel everything.
Whichever you choose, you’re stepping into one of the most balanced and well-crafted racquet lines in modern tennis — the Yonex EZONE series, where comfort meets performance without compromise.