Head Speed vs. Radical: Which Head Racquet Should You Choose?
Quick answer: The Head Speed MP and Radical MP are both 300 g, 16x19 all-court racquets, but they are built differently. The Speed MP has a 100 sq in head and a constant 23 mm beam for a stable, connected feel with easy depth. The Radical MP has a 98 sq in head and a variable 20/23/21 mm beam, giving a slightly more control-oriented, all-round feel with a bit more pop.
Speed and Radical are Head’s two best-known performance lines, and they appeal to similar players. Here’s how the current Speed MP 2026 and Radical MP 2025 compare.
What is the difference between the Head Speed and Radical?
| Speed MP 2026 | Radical MP 2025 | |
|---|---|---|
| Head size | 100 sq in | 98 sq in |
| Weight (unstrung, Head) | 300 g (10.6 oz) | 300 g (10.6 oz) |
| String pattern | 16x19 | 16x19 |
| Beam | 23 mm constant | 20/23/21 mm |
| Strung weight (lab) | 318 g | 318 g |
| Balance (lab, strung) | 4 pts head light | 4 pts head light |
| Swingweight (lab, strung) | 329 | 323 |
| Stiffness (lab, RA) | 60 | 66 |
| Key technology | Hy-Bor, Auxetic 2, Graphene Inside | Auxetic 2 in the throat and handle |
| Character | Stable, connected, plow-through | All-round, slight lean toward control |
Unstrung weight from Head. Lab specs measured on strung racquets by Tennis Warehouse.
Which is more powerful: Speed or Radical?
In the MP versions, the Speed usually gives more easy depth. Its bigger 100 sq in head and higher swingweight help it drive through the ball and stay stable against hard hitters. The Radical MP is stiffer on the lab’s measurements, so it can feel livelier on contact, but its 98 sq in head asks you to supply a little more of the power and reward cleaner contact.
Which has more control and feel?
The Radical MP’s smaller head and thinner sections at the tip and handle give it a precise, all-round feel that leans slightly toward control. The Speed MP’s constant beam and lower stiffness rating give it a more muted, connected feel that many players describe as plush and stable. Both use Head’s Auxetic 2 construction for feel at impact.
What about the Pro versions?
Both lines have heavier Pro models for advanced players. The Speed Pro 2026 is 310 g with a dense 18x20 pattern for flatter hitting and maximum control; Head’s Speed line is endorsed by Jannik Sinner. The Radical Pro 2025 is 315 g, 98 sq in, 16x19, with a 20/21.5/21 mm beam. Our 16x19 vs. 18x20 guide explains how pattern changes spin and control.
Who should choose which?
- Choose the Speed MP if you want stability against pace, easy depth from a 100 sq in head, and a soft, connected feel, especially if you hit flat to moderate topspin.
- Choose the Radical MP if you play an all-court game, come to the net, and want a slightly smaller head for precision with a bit more pop.
- Choose a Pro version if you have a long, fast swing and want more weight and stability.
- Want something lighter? Both lines include lighter models. Shop all Head Speed racquets, Head Radical racquets and Head racquets.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Head Speed or Radical better for intermediate players?
Both MP models suit intermediate players with full swings. The Speed MP’s 100 sq in head is a little more forgiving, while the Radical MP rewards cleaner contact. Players who want an easier swing should look at the lighter models in each line.
Which Head racquet does Jannik Sinner use?
Sinner is associated with the Head Speed line, which Head markets with him. Tour players often use customized frames, so a retail racquet may not match a pro’s exact specs.
Is the Head Speed good for spin?
Yes. The Speed MP’s 16x19 pattern and 100 sq in head make topspin easy to generate. The Speed Pro’s 18x20 pattern produces a flatter ball and less spin in exchange for more control.
Which is more arm-friendly: Speed MP or Radical MP?
On Tennis Warehouse’s lab measurements, the Speed MP is more flexible (60 RA) than the Radical MP (66 RA), and flexible frames generally feel softer on the arm. A soft string and moderate tension also help.
What does MP mean on a Head racquet?
MP stands for midplus, the head size class of about 95 to 105 sq in. On the current models, the Speed MP is 100 sq in and the Radical MP is 98 sq in.