man and woman comparing badminton strings

Learn the Difference Between the Different Types of Badminton Strings

In Badminton there are different string options depending on your style of play. Find out which one is right for you and your playing style.

Picking the right string tension and the right strings will make a huge difference in your game. So let’s learn about the differences and see what’s right for you!

A close-up of a badminton racket

String Tension

String tension refers to how tight the racquet string is tied to the racquet, and it’s measured in pounds (lbs) normally. The Badminton string is divided into the main and cross, where the main is the vertical string lines whereas the cross is the horizontal string lines. When you ask a stringer to string your racquet at 25 lbs for example, the stringer normally will tie it at either 25X27 lbs (main X cross), or 24X26 lbs or 25X25lbs, depending on the stringer’s experience.

String tension refers to how tight the racquet string is tied to the racquet, and it’s measured in pounds (lbs) normally. The Badminton string is divided into the main and cross, where the main is the vertical string lines whereas the cross is the horizontal string lines. When you ask a stringer to string your racquet at 25 lbs for example, the stringer normally will tie it at either 25X27 lbs (main X cross), or 24X26 lbs or 25X25lbs, depending on the stringer’s experience.

What to look for

There is no hard and fast rule on this but for normal players, this level of tension will work, unless you know for sure what you tension you need for both cross and main. Otherwise just mentioning the single tension number will do. The tighter you tie your string, the less bouncy your string becomes, which means less repulsion power will be generated from the string bed. However your shots will be more accurate and sharper, due to the smaller concentrated sweet spot and the string bed is less ‘bouncier’. As a general rule, you would need to have good strength if you wish to tie your string at 27 lbs or above. For average players or players just getting into the game, 22-26 lbs will be good. Over-loose string will cause the string bed to be too bouncy and make controlling your shot harder. On the other hand, modern racquets are light but they are fragile too. So depending on the racquet material, stringing it at high tension may cause the racket frame to crack or even break.

Thin vs Thick String

Choose a badminton racquet which can handle the string tension you need, to prevent damage during the stringing process. In the market, there are different strings available, some are thinner and some are thicker. A thin string will be less durable (e.g. 0.66mm circumference string) if tied at high tension, such as 27 lbs and above. However thin string will give you more power because it’s more bouncy compared to thicker string. Another note that we want to point out is when a string tension is too high for you, it will normally cause vibration to your hand and arm, just like what an over-stiff racket will do to you, especially when you miss the sweet spot. Over the time, this will cause injury to your hand and arm. So be wise when choosing a suitable string tension for yourself.

Be sure to check with the person at the store they will know which string is right for you and happy hitting!

product image of a badminton string reel

Get the Perfect Badminton Strings

Make sure you find the strings that suit your playing level and personal preferences to a tee. Whether you're looking for soft, medium, or hard-feeling strings, made of nylon or carbon, you won't run out of options in our range below. 

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Learn the Difference Between the Different Types of Badminton Strings