How to Choose the Right Badminton Strings and Tension

When it comes to badminton, your racquet gets most of the attention, but your strings play just as big a role in how you perform on the court. The right string and tension can improve power, control, comfort, and consistency, while the wrong setup can hold your game back.

At Racquet Vault, we help players of all levels dial in the right string setup to match their playing style. Here’s what you need to know before your next restring.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Badminton Strings

String Gauge (Thickness)

• Thinner strings offer better feel, control, and shuttle response, but tend to break faster.
• Thicker strings last longer and provide greater durability, but sacrifice some touch.

Quick Guide:

• Frequent players or hard hitters → slightly thicker gauge
• Players focused on touch and precision → thinner gauge

String Feel: Power vs. Control

• Softer strings store and release more energy, helping generate power.
• Stiffer strings return the shuttle faster, offering sharper control and accuracy.

Your choice depends on whether your game relies more on smashes and clears, or placement and consistency.

Choosing the Right String Tension

String tension has a major impact on how your racquet performs:

• Lower tension (18–21 lbs) – More power, more comfort, and a larger sweet spot. Great for beginners and recreational players.
• Medium tension (22–24 lbs) – Balanced power and control. Ideal for intermediate players.
• Higher tension (25–27+ lbs) – Maximum control and precision. Best for advanced and competitive players.

If you’re unsure, starting in the middle range is usually the safest option.

Helpful tip: 1 lb ≈ 0.45 kg, which is useful when reading racquet specifications.

Badminton Strings Available at Racquet Vault

We carry trusted Yonex badminton strings, used by players worldwide for their consistency and performance:

→ Yonex BGXB 65 – Durable, forgiving, and comfortable. Ideal for recreational and club players.

→ Yonex BG80 – Excellent balance of power and control with a crisp feel. A popular choice for competitive play.

→ Yonex BG Aerobite Hybrid – A power-oriented hybrid string designed for explosive speed and attacking shots, without sacrificing control.

Each string offers a distinct feel, so pairing it with the right tension is key.

When Should You Replace Your Strings?

Even if your string hasn’t snapped, performance drops over time.

Replace your strings if:

• Shots feel dull or inconsistent
• Tension feels noticeably looser
• You play regularly and haven’t restrung in 3–6 months

Professional Badminton Stringing at Racquet Vault

For the best performance and durability, proper stringing matters.

Our experienced stringers ensure:

• Accurate tension
• Even stringing
• Consistent feel across the entire racquet

Not sure what to choose? Our team can recommend the right string and tension based on your skill level and playing style.

Every player’s game is different, and your string choice should reflect that. Whether you value durability, sharp control, or explosive power, fine-tuning your setup is one of the easiest ways to improve performance without changing racquets.

Stop by Racquet Vault in-store or reach out to our team for expert advice. We’ll help you find the perfect setup to unlock your game.