Tennis balls are pressurized to increase the rigidity of the rubber surrounding the ball. This makes them bounce more quickly and stay rigid throughout play. Pressurized tennis balls are vacuum-packed. Once you open the can, though, the pressure begins to diminish and they slowly become soft, less bouncy and slower.
Types
Tennis balls are available pressurized and unpressurized. Unpressurized balls don't lose their bounce and are a good choice for those who play less frequently. Pressurized balls come in a range of options. The highest level, used in championship matches, are professional-level balls and are the highest quality that a manufacturer creates. The next level down, championship quality, is what most league matches require. The next level, recreational play, are good practice balls, but not allowed by the rules of many leagues in match play.
Testing
If the balls you use have been out of the can for a while, use a simple test to see if they are still good for play. Drop the ball from about 100 inches high. If it doesn't bounce higher than 53 inches, and lower than 58 inches, then the ball has lost its pressure and isn't good for play. Your kids might want to use it, or you can load it into a catapult for practicing your ground strokes.
Considerations
Remember the conditions in which you are playing to get the most from your tennis equipment. High-altitude courts may require high-altitude balls, as the atmospheric pressure can change the way a ball responds on the court. The type of court also affects the ball; some balls are ideal for classic, hard courts, and others are better suited to clay courts or indoor play.
Difference in Play
Tennis balls are one of the most highly regulated in sports. However, a surprising variety exists in the manufacture and playability of major manufacturer's tennis balls. Over time, you may find you prefer one brand over another, and that some brands last longer given your style of play. To find out what makes the most sense, try a variety of brands to find the pressurized ball that makes the best of your game.
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