Wilson Ultra Pro 16x19 (v3 and v4) vs. Dunlop CX 200 Tour 16x19 (2019 and 2021 models) - looking comparison / recommendation and any other suggestions

[Racquet.warrior]

Hello everyone,

tl;dr - Currently I am demoing Dunlop CX 200 Tour 16x19 (2021 model), and I really liking it so far. I heard Wilson Ultra Pro models are also great platform racquets, and looking for some knowledge from the pundits here - how do they compare, and any other similar racquets.

My playstyle / preferences:

1. [edit] I use SemiWestern grip, and yet - if the ball, at contact, is not below the net height I try to hit it hard and flat - so I end up hitting the tape a little more often than I'd like to. I don't use the modern spinny "brush the ball" motion unless it's absolutely necessary (when the contact point is below net height).
2. My absolute favorite is the goat - Head ProTour 280/630. The feel on contact is absolutely the best! I can explicitly feel the racquet flex (maybe the fact that the racquet is ~25yrs old helps here), and the ball pocket into the stringbed. But I find the racquet too heavy, especially on the OHBH, when I'm on the run or when I'm dealing with high balls.
3. Gravity Pro was another racquet I like a lot, before I switched to OHBH (from the 2-hander) after I got a tear in my back muscle trying to free my arms as much as possible. I have always loved how OHBH looks, and switched to it even though I know the journey is going to be tough. And now I absolutely love how freeing the OHBH motion is. Couldn't swing Gravity Pro on my OHBH.
4. I prefer hitting flat - Aslan Karatsev and Marin Cilic are the players I love watching. I like hitting through the court, with as low net clearance as possible (within my abilities). But here's the problem - with the 18x20 pattern racquets, I end hitting the tape (or lower) more often than I'd like. So I started looking for open string pattern, without going for a larger head size.
5. I ended up buying VCore 95 (2023 16x20), which I find okay overall. The muted feel is not something I prefer, and I also feel my balls are a little too loopy.
6. I prefer a very headlight balance, so I can swing the racquet easily (generate high racquet head speed), and I think I can generate enough power on my own, so I don't need the racquet to help me with it. I also prefer a thin beam, as I find this also greatly improves maneuverability. This could also the reason why I'm liking racquets with low sw (except Gravity Pro).
7. Strings - I like soft playing and thin strings (poly / multi / gut depending on the racquet), and my preferred tension range is 42 - 48lbs. These are the strings I liked so far: Volkl Cyclone Tour 18g, Weiss Ultra Cannon 1.23mm, Babolat Xcel (liked it a lot in my early tennis days), Natural Gut <=16g
8. Other racquets that I liked so far - Prince Vortex 310 14x21 (surprising?). I also really enjoyed Babolat Flow 280g as my first racquet.
9. In the recent demo I tried Prince Phantoms (97P, Pro 100, 100G), but didn't like the feel on any of them (I also own Synergy 98, and don't like the feel). I guess I'm not a big fan of Textreme and/or Twaron.
10. [edit] I have the Prestige MP and Tour racquets (360+ from 2019 - Red, not Burgundy). I thought I’d like them, but I don’t (could be the string pattern again). The feel/sensation on contact is miles apart, compared to PT280.

I'm really liking the CX 200 Tour, and I like it more than PT280 on OHBH when on the run, and on high balls. Overall, I feel more confident on my OHBH with this racquet, compared to PT280. On my forehand, I'm dumping less balls into the net. PT280 feels delicious when I hit the spot, but I'm more consistent with CX, (I think) mainly due to the open string pattern.

I don't have an option to demo Wilson Ultra Pro models, so I'm curious to know what you guys/gals think (compared to CX 200 Tour 16x19, given my preferences).
Is Phantom Pro 93) 14x18 similar to these racquets?
Also, please recommend any other racquets (new and old) that you believe I should try.

I'm sure not all of the information I shared here is useful, but I wanted to share as much as I can in case it helps.

My first racquet post, I'm excited. Thank you all!

 

[bobeeto]

If you can track the ball well, the phantom 93p is just about as good for a one-y as possible. based on the 18x20 problem the 14m one should suit you. You can find ultra tours fairly cheap if you want to test out that mold/string pattern before shelling out the wilson MAP coin.

I think for your wants and needs, the CX200 tour is a fantastic racket

 

[Racquet.warrior]

If you can track the ball well, the phantom 93p is just about as good for a one-y as possible. based on the 18x20 problem the 14m one should suit you. You can find ultra tours fairly cheap if you want to test out that mold/string pattern before shelling out the wilson MAP coin.

I think for your wants and needs, the CX200 tour is a fantastic racket

Thank you for the suggestions!

Does Wilson Ultra Tour have a 16x19 model? Or do you recommend trying 18x20, to test the feel, balance etc.?

I wanted to demo 93P 14x18, but there were no more demo racquets available at that time. And I realized I’m not a big fan of the Prince feel. I’ll try it if I get a chance.

 

[Automatix]

Ultra Tour is basically an Ultra Pro.
Ultra Tours weren't released in 16x19 IIRC.
I recommend reading https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/ind...-labs-ultra-pro-16x19-official-thread.680486/ since a lot of people prefer the 18x20 pattern.

 

[bobeeto]

Yes Ultra tour was only 18x20 but I believe they have a similar power level and feel as the ultra pros

 

[Dragy]

You may actually like Wilson Blade 98 or Technifiber TF40 16x19 or Solinco Whiteout 16x19. But both ProTour 280 and CX200 Tour are 95, and you need to consider. Taking into account you liked Gravity Pro, you don't seem locked down on those small head sizes, so consider options.

 

[SupahMan5000]

You may actually like Wilson Blade 98 or Technifiber TF40 16x19 or Solinco Whiteout 16x19. But both ProTour 280 and CX200 Tour are 95, and you need to consider. Taking into account you liked Gravity Pro, you don't seem locked down on those small head sizes, so consider options.

Whiteout 16M is very open. The TF40 on the denser side for a 16x19

The WO is great but it’s so open compared to the others

 

[Dragy]

Whiteout 16M is very open. The TF40 on the denser side for a 16x19

The WO is great but it’s so open compared to the others

Well, so one can use WO 18x20 instead, particularly one who liked GPro

 

[ariwibowo]

I used to plaý with CX 200 tour 16x19 and I am now using Artengo TR960 control tour 16x19. The TR960 also needs customization like CX200 tour and Ultra Tour. You might want to try this TR960 tour from Decathlon.

 

[SupahMan5000]

Well, so one can use WO 18x20 instead, particularly one who liked GPro

I approve it’s quite open. But I think then it’s denser than the others

slightly more dense than the GP and less power overall I’d say. But good to have on the list if OP wants to try a lot of rackets

 

[Racquet.warrior]

Whiteout 16M is very open. The TF40 on the denser side for a 16x19

The WO is great but it’s so open compared to the others

I tried TF40 18x20 before, but didn’t like it too much. I think the balance is more head heavy than what I prefer, and that’s also probably why I didn’t like TFight ISO either.
And I tend to gravitate more towards thin beam racquets - maybe they flex a little more, and/or have good ball pocketing?

I’ll checkout WhiteOut options. Thanks!

 

[Racquet.warrior]

I used to plaý with CX 200 tour 16x19 and I am now using Artengo TR960 control tour 16x19. The TR960 also needs customization like CX200 tour and Ultra Tour. You might want to try this TR960 tour from Decathlon.

Thank you!
I should definitely try this. I heard this was Artengo’s response to Wilson’s H19 (which was Wilson’s response to PT57a?) in the pro stock world.

For the mortals that’s TR960 <- Ultra Pro <- PT280?

The story writes itself, haha!

 

[Dragy]

I tried TF40 18x20 before, but didn’t like it too much. I think the balance is more head heavy than what I prefer, and that’s also probably why I didn’t like TFight ISO either.
And I tend to gravitate more towards thin beam racquets - maybe they flex a little more, and/or have good ball pocketing?

I’ll checkout WhiteOut options. Thanks!

TF40’s 16x19 have moderately low SW, so you can go with 315 version or tail weight 305 version and get what you need.

 

[AmericanTwist]

If you can play with the cx 200 tour you can play with the ultra pro which comes in 16x19. The only difference is that the UP is just slightly more elongated to add forgiveness when chip returning bombs. I can return well with the cx 200 tour so I carry both in my bag. I love that both are platform frames to add lead to.

You might also want to check out the 93p if you have good accuracy. The feel on that should be on par with the other frames. Acid test for me is to see if I can return well with a particular frame.

 

[Chairman3]

If you like the Pro Tour....

Why not try the Prestige Pro or Tour
Pro: 18x20, 98sq-in, great classic feel
Tour: 16x19, 95sq-in, *have not played the Aux version so can't comment on feel

I currently play the Ultra Pro 16x19 and it is great, a unique racquet but when you get it right (customization) it's hard to beat.
Also played the TR960 Control Tour 16x19 and it is close to as good at half the price

 

[Racquet.warrior]

If you like the Pro Tour....

Why not try the Prestige Pro or Tour
Pro: 18x20, 98sq-in, great classic feel
Tour: 16x19, 95sq-in, *have not played the Aux version so can't comment on feel

I currently play the Ultra Pro 16x19 and it is great, a unique racquet but when you get it right (customization) it's hard to beat.
Also played the TR960 Control Tour 16x19 and it is close to as good at half the price

Thank you, that’s a valid point.

I forgot to mention this:
I have the Prestige MP (98) and Tour (99) racquets (360+ from 2019 - Red, not Burgundy). I thought I’d like them, but I didn’t (could be the string pattern again). The feel/sensation on contact is miles apart, compared to PT280. So I’m not too hopeful to try the 95sq.in. version. The beam is thicker than the 98, so I doubt the feel is better than the 98.

Regarding TR960 Control Tour, where do you think it’s not as good as UP? (Putting the obviously great price point).

I used to plaý with CX 200 tour 16x19 and I am now using Artengo TR960 control tour 16x19. The TR960 also needs customization like CX200 tour and Ultra Tour. You might want to try this TR960 tour from Decathlon.

Why did you make the switch? Where do you think TR960 is better than CX 200 Tour?

 

[Chairman3]

@Racquet.warrior
I was referring to the Auxetic versions, which they changed the naming on. (Super confusing and questionable move by Head)
The now Pro (formerly MP) does feel a tad better than the 360+ version, may be worth a demo. A little "cleaner" feel.

The UP just feels a little better than the Artengo. Little more feedback and feel. TR960 also plays slightly more open and with a slight bit more power. I get higher launch from the TR960, not a bad thing just a fact.
If I didn't already have a UP and found a good deal on a second one, I'd probably be playing the TR960. You can impact feel with strings and tension.

 

[Racquet.warrior]

TF40’s 16x19 have moderately low SW, so you can go with 315 version or tail weight 305 version and get what you need.

That’s something I haven’t tried. Will look into that.
Thank you!

 

[EggSalad]

Following along as the Ultra Pro’s are really intriguing. I have a couple CX Tour 200s headed to me, but in 18x20 pattern; which is what I’d be interested in for the Ultra Pros too.

The Artenegro 18x20 is another one I didn’t really think of in my quest to find a classic racquet with a touch of modern vibes to it.

Also have some VC95s coming to me too. LOL.

 

[Racquet.warrior]

Following along as the Ultra Pro’s are really intriguing. I have a couple CX Tour 200s headed to me, but in 18x20 pattern; which is what I’d be interested in for the Ultra Pros too.

The Artenegro 18x20 is another one I didn’t really think of in my quest to find a classic racquet with a touch of modern vibes to it.

Also have some VC95s coming to me too. LOL.

Haha. Let me know if you need another VC95
If you’re into the spin game, I think it’s a good racquet. But given your interest in 18x20s, I’m a bit skeptical.
Hope you like it.

 

[ariwibowo]

Thank you, that’s a valid point.

I forgot to mention this:
I have the Prestige MP (98) and Tour (99) racquets (360+ from 2019 - Red, not Burgundy). I thought I’d like them, but I didn’t (could be the string pattern again). The feel/sensation on contact is miles apart, compared to PT280. So I’m not too hopeful to try the 95sq.in. version. The beam is thicker than the 98, so I doubt the feel is better than the 98.

Regarding TR960 Control Tour, where do you think it’s not as good as UP? (Putting the obviously great price point).


Why did you make the switch? Where do you think TR960 is better than CX 200 Tour?

I play mostly doubles and TR960 is better than CX 200 Tour for doubles due to slightly more power, spin, and sweet spot. If I play singles, I usually use CX 200 Tour 18x20 where you need a lot of control.

 

[Vicious49]

Where are you located? If youre in Houston you can try out my UT and UP.

If you prefer to hit flatter Id recommend the UP 18/20 (formerly Ultra Tour). The Dunlop and other frames wont be able to compete with the feel of the UT.

Also what grip size are you? I stocked ip on L4 UTs and grommets a few years ago so I still have new ones sitting in my cliset.

 

[Racquet.warrior]

Where are you located? If youre in Houston you can try out my UT and UP.

If you prefer to hit flatter Id recommend the UP 18/20 (formerly Ultra Tour). The Dunlop and other frames wont be able to compete with the feel of the UT.

Also what grip size are you? I stocked ip on L4 UTs and grommets a few years ago so I still have new ones sitting in my cliset.

Ah, I live in California. Thanks a lot for the offer though.
Even I believed 18x20s are good for my flat game, and stuck with them until a month ago.
I use the SemiWestern grip (more towards Western), and yet - if the ball, at contact, is not below the net height I try to hit it hard and flat - so I end up hitting the tape a little more often than I'd like to. I don't use the modern spinny "brush the ball" motion unless it's absolutely necessary (when the contact point is below net height).
Hopefully 16x19 pattern can help me with that little bit of lift in the launch angle.

 

[Racquet.warrior]

You can impact feel with strings and tension.

Agreed! This is something I'm trying to get better at (there are sooooo many strings to experiment with).

 

[Dragy]

Ah, I live in California. Thanks a lot for the offer though.
Even I believed 18x20s are good for my flat game, and stuck with them until a month ago.
I use the SemiWestern grip (more towards Western), and yet - if the ball, at contact, is not below the net height I try to hit it hard and flat - so I end up hitting the tape a little more often than I'd like to. I don't use the modern spinny "brush the ball" motion unless it's absolutely necessary (when the contact point is below net height).
Hopefully 16x19 pattern can help me with that little bit of lift in the launch angle.

I had same issue with Ultra Tours 18x20. I use solid spin, put prefer shots to still be penetrating. And with that, there’s some “optimal” shape I imagine for my shots. And I never felt comfortable - it was either artificial lift I went for, or good shots but like 1ft over the net. I got easily better shape with 18x20 Gravity Pro and 16x19 C10 Pro, for example. But Speed MP was too much of a lift with shaped 1.20 poly.

 

[Racquet.warrior]

I had same issue with Ultra Tours 18x20. I use solid spin, put prefer shots to still be penetrating. And with that, there’s some “optimal” shape I imagine for my shots. And I never felt comfortable - it was either artificial lift I went for, or good shots but like 1ft over the net. I got easily better shape with 18x20 Gravity Pro and 16x19 C10 Pro, for example. But Speed MP was too much of a lift with shaped 1.20 poly.

You're spot on, articulating the issue I'm having!
And I completely agree that Gravity Pro is the only 18x20 that I felt consistent without the 'artificial lift' on my forehand. But it feels sluggish on my backhand (feels great for a 2-hander though!). It has to be one of the best racquets made in the last 5 years, in my opinion.

I'll try 16x19 C10 Pro, thanks for the suggestion!

 

[Vicious49]

I have an Eastern FH so am naturally more prone to flatter hitting. I too wasn't getting the consistent net clearance I wanted as I'd clip the tape quite often with the UT. The UP 16/19 does help alleviate this but it also lacks some of the plow through and put away power of the 18/20.

EDIT: I have a few C10 Pros and yes, it does provide good spin and net clearance in a heavier frame that packs a punch when it meets the ball. It's not quite as loopy or high an arc as the VC95 though so that may fit the bill for you.

 

[Racquet.warrior]

I have a few C10 Pros and yes, it does provide good spin and net clearance in a heavier frame that packs a punch when it meets the ball. It's not quite as loopy or high an arc as the VC95 though so that may fit the bill for you.

Thanks for the comparison with VC95! It sounds like a good match for my style.

Update:

If you like the Pro Tour....

Why not try the Prestige Pro or Tour
Pro: 18x20, 98sq-in, great classic feel

I'm also giving Prestige 98sq.in. 18x20 another try, based on the suggestions here (I already own 2019 model) - I had a 1hr session today, and it wasn't as bad as I remember.
I changed the strings to alleviate the problem: Lynx Touch 17g mains @ 43lbs x Velocity MLT 17g crosses @ 40lbs.
As long as I'm moving to perfection, I'm getting what I want - maybe it's the strings, or I am getting better at Tennis . If I drop my energy even a little, I'm getting into trouble. As I like to play with a straight arm, I have to make sure I am exactly at an arms length to the ball at contact, not an inch closer lest I get into trouble. There's definitely the potential to hit some of my best shots with this racquet.
But I got tired pretty quickly, compared to CX200 Tour - I could swing that racquet for hours without feeling a thing (at the cost of a little put away power). The lower sw is desirable when I'm pressed for time, but when I have time Prestige is the one that I can bank on for an overpowering winner. Hard to choooooose!!

I'm thinking I should go with natural gut in the mains next time, just to make my life a little easier with Prestige.

 

[babar]

You're spot on, articulating the issue I'm having!
And I completely agree that Gravity Pro is the only 18x20 that I felt consistent without the 'artificial lift' on my forehand. But it feels sluggish on my backhand (feels great for a 2-hander though!). It has to be one of the best racquets made in the last 5 years, in my opinion.

I'll try 16x19 C10 Pro, thanks for the suggestion!

The Gravity Pro makes me want to go to the gym
Okay, actually it makes me think about going to the gym more. . .
Doesn't actually make me go to the gym.

 

[Racquet.warrior]

The Gravity Pro makes me want to go to the gym
Okay, actually it makes me think about going to the gym more. . .
Doesn't actually make me go to the gym.

You should be lifting GPro on the court instead...

 

[babar]

I tried when the Gravity racquets first came out a few yrs ago.
I played with the GPro for about 6-8 months, but my shoulder didn't like it too much.
I got rid of it, but would put that racquet up there with the C10Pro, Wilson 6.1 PS, Head PT 280 and POG OS in terms of absolute beast power on your shots.
I loved how it just met the ball and told it what to do.
Didn't matter what the other person was hitting.
A few yrs on, my shoulder is still a bit tender and can't keep up with that kind of weight and balance to swing for 3 sets.

 

[Racquet.warrior]

I tried when the Gravity racquets first came out a few yrs ago.
I played with the GPro for about 6-8 months, but my shoulder didn't like it too much.
I got rid of it, but would put that racquet up there with the C10Pro, Wilson 6.1 PS, Head PT 280 and POG OS in terms of absolute beast power on your shots.
I loved how it just met the ball and told it what to do.
Didn't matter what the other person was hitting.
A few yrs on, my shoulder is still a bit tender and can't keep up with that kind of weight and balance to swing for 3 sets.

I know. It's a shame.
Similar story with PT280

 

[Racquet.warrior]

TF40’s 16x19 have moderately low SW, so you can go with 315 version or tail weight 305 version and get what you need.

I think I demoed TF40 18x20 a long time ago. Little did I know I wasn't good enough for 18x20s!

 

[tele]

i might have missed it, but have you added any weight to your cx200 tour? the sw can be super low stock. mine still felt very maneuverable with sw around 330, and power was night and day

 

[Racquet.warrior]

i might have missed it, but have you added any weight to your cx200 tour? the sw can be super low stock. mine still felt very maneuverable with sw around 330, and power was night and day

I have not. It was a demo racquet.
I can imagine adding more weight (sw) would definitely help with power.
But Prestige 98 also has around 330sw, and I already find it slightly sluggish, compared to CX200Tour stock. Maybe there's a sweet middle ground!

 

[Racquet.warrior]

What are your thoughts on Dunlop Revo CX 2.0 Tour (18x20).
I know, I know - it's another 18x20. But I'm enjoying the Prestige 98 again, so this racquet caught my eye.
Any comparisons with Prestige 98, and CX 200 Tour?

 

[tele]

I have not. It was a demo racquet.
I can imagine adding more weight (sw) would definitely help with power.
But Prestige 98 also has around 330sw, and I already find it slightly sluggish, compared to CX200Tour stock. Maybe there's a sweet middle ground!

definitely, especially considering some cx tours come in at around 310 sw strung. if you dont want to mess with lead on demos, strips of Head bumper guard tape are actually pretty heavy.

the new prestige pro also has a really high twist weight, which can certainly affect sluggishness. my cx tour with weight at 12 felt more maneuverable than my vcore pro hd at same swingweight.