Walk into many UK clubs and you will see two games played on the same court: squash and racketball. Confusingly, racketball has been officially renamed Squash 57 in the UK — but plenty of players still use the old name. So what actually separates the two games?
Quick answer: Squash and racketball (now called Squash 57 in the UK) are played on the same court but with different equipment. Squash 57 uses a larger, bouncier ball with no dot system and a slightly larger racket, making it easier to pick up. Squash uses a small, low-bounce ball with the coloured dot system and rewards technique and fitness.
Same court, different game
Both games are played on a standard squash court with the same walls and lines. The differences come down to equipment and, as a result, how the game feels to play.
| Feature | Squash | Racketball / Squash 57 |
|---|---|---|
| Court | Standard squash court | Same court |
| Ball | Small, low bounce, dot system | Larger, bouncier, no dots |
| Racket | Standard squash racket | Slightly larger racket |
| Rallies | Demand movement and technique | Longer, easier to sustain |
| Learning curve | Steeper | Gentler |
The ball is the biggest difference
Squash uses a small rubber ball graded by the coloured dot system, where the double yellow dot barely bounces and needs warming up. Squash 57 uses a noticeably larger, bouncier ball that does not use the dot system at all. That extra bounce means the ball sits up for you, rallies last longer, and beginners can enjoy a good game almost immediately. If you are new to the dot system, our squash ball types guide breaks it down.
The racket
Squash 57 rackets are slightly larger than squash rackets, which suits the bigger ball. Many players who already own a squash racket simply try Squash 57 with a dedicated frame when they want a different, often more social, hit.
Which should you play?
Choose Squash 57 if you:
- Are brand new to racket sports and want quick, enjoyable rallies
- Prefer a more social, less technically demanding game
- Are returning to sport and want something gentler to pick up
Choose squash if you:
- Enjoy a technical, fitness-intensive challenge
- Want to play leagues and tournaments (squash has the wider competitive scene)
- Like the precision of controlling a low-bouncing ball
Many players enjoy both — Squash 57 for a social, high-intensity workout and squash for the technical challenge.
Why the name changed
The sport formerly called racketball in the UK was rebranded to Squash 57 to align internationally and to reflect the ball's 57mm diameter. If you hear either name at your club, they mean the same game.
FAQs
Is racketball the same as Squash 57?
Yes. Racketball was officially renamed Squash 57 in the UK. The two names refer to the same game.
Can I play Squash 57 with a squash racket?
It is best to use a dedicated Squash 57 racket, which is slightly larger and suited to the bigger ball, though you play on the same court.
Is Squash 57 easier than squash?
Generally yes. The larger, bouncier ball makes rallies easier to sustain, so beginners often find it more accessible.
Do Squash 57 balls use the dot system?
No. The dot system applies only to squash balls. Squash 57 uses a single larger, bouncier ball.
Try both games
Whether you fancy the technical challenge of squash or the accessible fun of Squash 57, Central Sports has the kit. Explore the full squash collection for rackets, balls, footwear and accessories for both games, and get in touch if you would like advice on getting started.