Badminton String & Tension Guide: How to Choose
, by Reyan Fernando, 5 min reading time
Strings and string tension quietly shape how your racket plays, often as much as the racket itself. The same frame can feel powerful and forgiving or crisp and controlled depending on how it's strung. This guide explains tension, string gauge, and durability in plain terms, then helps you pick the right setup for your game.
Why strings and tension matter
Your racket's frame sets its balance and flex, but the stringbed is what actually contacts the shuttle. Tension changes how much the strings "trampoline" the shuttle back, while the string itself affects feel, repulsion, and how long it lasts. Get both right and your racket performs to its potential; get them wrong and even a great frame can feel dead or uncontrollable.
String tension: power vs control
Tension is measured in pounds (lbs) and refers to how tightly the stringbed is strung. It's the biggest lever you have over feel.
Lower tension (around 20–23 lbs) creates a springier stringbed with a stronger trampoline effect, giving more power and a larger, more forgiving sweet spot. It's the best starting point for beginners and anyone who wants easy depth without a big swing.
Higher tension (around 25 lbs and up) produces a flatter, firmer stringbed with more control, precision, and a crisper feel, but a smaller sweet spot that demands clean contact. It suits advanced players who generate their own power and want to place the shuttle exactly.
Around 23–25 lbs is a comfortable all-round middle. Whatever you choose, stay within your racket's recommended tension range, shown on each product page, as stringing beyond the maximum can damage the frame. If you're not sure how tension fits with balance and flex, see our racket buying guide.
String gauge: thickness changes everything
String gauge is the diameter in millimetres, and our range covers the three common options. Thinner strings hit harder and feel sharper; thicker strings last longer and feel more controlled.
0.66 mm (thin) gives the most repulsion, feel, and spin potential, ideal for players chasing power and touch, though it breaks more easily. See the Babolat Life +66.
0.68 mm (all-round) balances power, feel, and durability, making it the safe default for most players, like the Babolat iFeel 68.
0.70 mm (thick) is the most durable and control-oriented, best for hard hitters and frequent players who break strings often, such as the Babolat Life +70.
Feel or durability: choosing a string line
Our strings come in two Babolat families. The iFeel line prioritises performance, repulsion, and a lively, connected feel for players who want the most from their stringbed. The Life+ line focuses on durability and value, holding up well for regular play and frequent sessions. Both are sold as 200 m reels, which offer excellent value if you restring regularly or string more than one racket. Browse the full range of badminton strings.
How often should you restring?
A simple rule of thumb: restring as many times per year as you play per week. So if you play twice a week, aim for roughly two restrings a year. Strings also lose tension gradually even if they don't snap, so if your racket starts to feel dull and powerless, fresh string will bring it back to life, well before it actually breaks.
Which string setup should you choose?
A quick starting point based on what you want most. Stay within your racket's recommended tension range.
| Your priority | Suggested tension | Gauge | String to try |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power & easy depth (beginner) | 20–23 lbs | 0.66 mm | Babolat Life +66 |
| All-round balance | 23–25 lbs | 0.68 mm | Babolat iFeel 68 |
| Durability & frequent play | 24–26 lbs | 0.70 mm | Babolat Life +70 |
| Control & precision (advanced) | 25+ lbs | 0.70 mm | iFeel 70 (see range) |
Complete your setup
Strings work best matched to the right frame, so start with the right racket (all our strings are Babolat). While you're refreshing your racket, it's a good time to add a fresh grip and stock up on shuttlecocks too.
Frequently asked questions
What string tension should I use for badminton?
Beginners are best around 20–23 lbs for more power and a larger sweet spot. Intermediate players suit 23–25 lbs, and advanced players who generate their own power often go 25 lbs and above for control. Always stay within the tension range recommended for your racket.
Does higher tension give more power?
It's a common myth. Lower tension actually gives more power thanks to a stronger trampoline effect, while higher tension gives more control. Higher tension only translates to power if you already have the technique and swing speed to compress the tighter stringbed yourself.
Thicker or thinner string, which is better?
Thinner strings (0.66 mm) offer more power, feel, and spin but break more easily. Thicker strings (0.70 mm) last longer and feel more controlled. A 0.68 mm gauge is the all-round middle ground and a safe default for most players.
How often should I restring my racket?
A good rule is to restring as many times per year as you play per week. Strings lose tension over time even without breaking, so if your racket feels dull or powerless, it's time for a fresh set.
Can I string my racket above its recommended tension?
It's not advised. Exceeding the maximum tension printed on the racket can crack or deform the frame and may void the warranty. Stay within the recommended range for safe, reliable performance.