Yonex VCORE 98 vs VCORE 100: Which Should You Buy?
Serving Aces
The VCORE 98 and the VCORE 100.
Same Ruby Red paint. Same spin-friendly shape. Same price.
But they don't play the same. And picking the wrong one is one of the most common racquet mistakes we see in the shop.
This guide breaks down the difference in plain terms, so you can work out which one fits your game.
We'll cover:
- The quick answer, if you're in a hurry
- The specs side by side, and what they actually mean on court
- Who each racquet suits (and who it doesn't)
- A simple test to decide
- How to string whichever one you choose
Quick answer: Choose the VCORE 100 if you want easy power, a bigger sweet spot and help from the frame. Choose the VCORE 98 if you swing fast, hit heavy topspin and want more control over where the ball lands.
The specs, side by side
Here's how the two 2026 models compare.
| VCORE 98 | VCORE 100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Head size | 98 sq in | 100 sq in |
| Weight (unstrung) | 305g | 300g |
| Balance | 315mm | 320mm |
| String pattern | 16x19 | 16x19 |
| Beam | 23 to 23.5mm | 24 to 26mm |
On paper, the gap looks small.
Two square inches. Five grams. A few millimetres of beam.
On court, it's bigger than you'd think.
What those numbers mean when you hit
Head size: forgiveness vs precision
A bigger head means a bigger sweet spot.
So on the VCORE 100, off-centre hits still travel. Mishits land deep instead of dropping short.
The VCORE 98 gives up a little of that forgiveness. In return, you get tighter control over direction.
Beam: power vs feel
The beam is the thickness of the frame.
The VCORE 100's thicker beam makes it stiffer and more powerful. The ball jumps off the strings.
The VCORE 98's thinner beam gives more feel and makes it easier to control big swings.
Weight and balance: stability vs speed
The VCORE 98 is 5g heavier but sits slightly more head-light.
That makes it more stable against heavy, fast balls, while still feeling quick in the hand.
The VCORE 100 is a touch lighter overall but carries more of its weight in the head, which adds easy pop.
Who should buy the VCORE 100?
- Improving and intermediate players who want help from the frame
- Baseliners who like spin but don't have a huge swing yet
- Advanced players who want a little free depth on defence
- Anyone whose mishits tend to land short or in the net
Who should buy the VCORE 98?
- Intermediate to advanced players with long, fast swings
- Players who hit heavy topspin and want to control the arc
- Anyone who finds bigger frames send their good shots long
- Players stepping up from a 100 who want more precision
What about spin?
Both are excellent spin racquets. That's what VCORE is built for.
The difference is how the spin arrives.
The 100 makes spin easier to find. The 98 gives you more control over how much you put on the ball.
The simple test
Think about your last few sets.
- Your mishits land short? Go VCORE 100.
- Your good shots land long? Go VCORE 98.
Still torn? Take both on court through our demo program. Ten minutes of hitting with each will tell you more than any spec sheet.
What about the other VCOREs?
Neither one feels right? The range goes further.
- VCORE 95 (310g): a compact head and 16x20 pattern for maximum precision. For strong players with clean technique.
- VCORE 98 Tour (315g): heavier and more stable, for advanced players.
- VCORE 100L and 98L: lighter versions for juniors moving up and newer adult players.
See them all in our Yonex VCORE range.
How to string your VCORE
A VCORE is built for spin. The string you put in it decides how much of that spin you actually get.
- Big hitters: a full polyester for maximum spin and control.
- Want a softer feel? A hybrid, with polyester in the mains and a multifilament in the crosses.
- Sore arm? Skip full poly. Read our guide to racquets and strings for tennis elbow.
Tip from our stringers: Start around 48 to 52 lbs (22 to 24 kg) with polyester. Go a few pounds higher with a softer string. Then adjust after a few sets.
Not sure what to pick? Our tennis strings guide explains every type. Or let our team set it up for you through our racquet restringing service. Most racquets are ready the next day.
Quick questions
Is the VCORE 98 or 100 better for intermediate players?
For most intermediates, the VCORE 100. The bigger sweet spot and extra power make it easier to play consistently. Move to the 98 once your swing is fast enough that the 100 starts sending balls long.
Is the VCORE good for beginners?
The full-weight VCOREs suit players who already have a decent swing. Beginners and juniors are better off starting with the lighter VCORE 100L.
Do the VCORE 98 and 100 use the same string pattern?
Yes. Both are 16x19, which is open enough to produce plenty of spin.
Can I try a VCORE before I buy?
Yes. Ask about our demo program in store at 644 Mt Alexander Rd, Moonee Ponds.