14 Best Tennis Strings
It’s tough for a lot of players to find the proper string to help take their game to the next level. There is a seemingly endless amount of options available from different companies, and just determining the right type of string is tough enough.
Most people are looking for performance, durability, affordability, and comfort out of their strings. If a string can deliver on most of those values, players leave satisfied.
Out of the 14 below, there will be at least one or two strings worth trying out. Finding the best string for a person’s game takes time, but this is a great place to start.
Before going through each one, here’s a sneak peek of the best tennis strings and their overall ratings.
| Rank | Tennis String | Overall Rating (1-10) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Babolat RPM Blast | 8.8 |
| 2 | Luxilon Alu Power | 8.6 |
| 3 | Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour | 8.6 |
| 4 | Wilson Champions Choice Hybrid | 8.5 |
| 5 | Head Hawk Touch | 8.5 |
| 6 | Wilson Champions Choice Hybrid | 8.5 |
| 7 | Volkl Cyclone Tour | 8.4 |
| 8 | Solinco Tour Bite Soft | 8.4 |
| 9 | Luxilon Big Banger Ace | 8.3 |
| 10 | Wilson NXT | 8.3 |
| 11 | Technifibre X-One Biphase | 8.3 |
| 12 | Babolat VS Touch | 8.3 |
| 13 | Prince Premier Touch | 8.2 |
| 14 | Prince Synthetic Gut | 8.1 |
1. Prince Synthetic Gut
When shopping for a budget option, most are going to find a lot of synthetic strings. This is the cheapest type of string, and although it’s not recommended for high-quality players, it is perfect for those people playing on a budget.
It is tough finding something that is good, and Prince might just make the best option out there right now. They seem to focus on making something that’s great for recreational players, giving them a string that lasts a while, is very comfortable, and provides a combination of power and control that encourages new players.
Keep in mind that when talking about durability with synthetic gut, it’s a comparison to other synthetic got options. This is not going to last as long as just about any string below, but that is part of the reason why it’s so inexpensive. It’s one of the best values for beginner players, allowing for restringing without having to break the bank.
Pros
- Best synthetic gut on the market
- Very inexpensive
- Comfortable on the arm
Cons
- Breaks somewhat easily
- Hard to get great touch
2. Luxilon Big Banger Ace
This is one of two strings from Luxilon to make this list, and any of their offerings usually grab positive reviews from playtesters. They offer a wide range of options, and this polyester has a lot of fans for all the positives it brings.
While it doesn’t quite match the spin potential of an RPM Blast, it’s not far behind. Players love the combination of spin and control on all types of shots, which allows for some solid play against a variety of opponents.
Durability is also about as good as any polyester out there. People like that it holds playability slightly longer than a typical polyester, which is essential for players who need accurate stringing measurements for them at all times.
Pros
- Great combination of spin and control on serves, groundstrokes and volleys
- As durable as any polyester string out
- Comfortable for a stiffer polyester
Cons
- Lacks much free power
- Doesn’t come in durable gauges
3. Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour
Players looking for a good amount of control will typically gravitate toward polyester strings, especially if their arm can handle it. These are low-powered options, and that allows players to generate their own power while putting the ball where they want it.
Out of all the options out there, control might be best with the Pro Hurricane Tour from Babolat. They have many polyesters out there, and each one does a great job in different categories. This is the ultimate control option, while also offering above-average spin as well.
The most significant sacrifice with all these positives is that it is not particularly arm-friendly. This is a very firm tennis string, and that will always make an arm feel less than great. Not only that, but players transitioning to this type of string for the first time won’t have the same amount of touch on shots.
Keep more balls in play with the string and see how much improvement it leads to. There are many polyesters to try out, but none of them performs as well with control like this one.
Pros
- Best polyester string for control on the market today
- Outstanding durability
- Spin potential is there for all levels of players
Cons
- Too low powered for some players
- Lack of comfort takes getting used to
4. Babolat RPM Blast
Babolat, in many ways, revolutionized the tennis game when they released their popular polyester string, RPM Blast. Many people know this as the string of choice of Rafael Nadal, and when they see his topspin on shots, they realize that they want exactly that as well.
The strings are known for spin, but they provide more benefits than that as well. Most players experience excellent control with all their shots, and a good amount of touch as well. It also helps that this is one of the most durable polyesters on the market today. For even better durability, going with a 15 gauge or 16 gauge of this string adds a level of thickness that lasts for a long time.
As for negatives, comfort is a big one for some people. There will be some players who just can’t play with a stiff polyester like this in their racquet. Even though the positives are great, it doesn’t matter if the arm is always in pain.
This is one of the strings that should be tried by just about anyone out there, but it won’t ultimately be for everyone. It falls in the mid-tier as far as prices are concerned, but no one is going to question the spin potential with this.
Pros
- Best spin potential on the market
- Solid control and touch with all shots
- Very durable, even compared to other polyesters
Cons
- Stiff strings are tough on some arms
- Players must generate most of their power
5. Babolat RPM Blast Rough
The rough version of RPM Blast provides enough unique characteristics that it’s worth listing on its own. Some people really like RPM Blast, but they aren’t the biggest fan of RPM Blast Rough. It also goes the other way as well. For people who want an extra bite on the ball while sacrificing a little bit of durability, RPM Blast Rough is one option to go with.
Standard RPM Blast is pretty smooth when feeling the string. Run fingers up and down the strings of RPM Blast Rough, and there will be some rigid edges. Those edges help to add even more spin to the ball when hitting all types of shots. All of a sudden, players can really start to see a difference in the way they play.
These rigid edges are a literal double-edged sword. They cut into each other a lot faster, and that causes notching at a faster rate. Players who want the best durability should probably stay away from this, unless they really want that extra free spin.
Pros
- Outstanding spin potential, building off RPM Blast
- Available in many different gauges
- Control on all shots are still solid
Cons
- Durability takes a hit due to increased notching
- Sometimes runs a bit more expensive than other polyesters
6. Wilson NXT
Looking for a multifilament string? At the top of nearly every less is Wilson NXT. This is a very comfortable string that people love putting in almost any type of racquet. It does so many things well that people are delighted with using the string and seeing what a difference it makes.
The first thing any player notices when using Wilson NXT for the first time is that the power is outstanding. It might be a little too much for some people, but most people understand that multifilament will bring that to the table.
It’s not completely overwhelming, and a decent amount of control and touch allows for people not to overhit too much. Another way to keep things a little more controlled is to mess around with the tension a bit. A tighter tension will control things a bit for players who struggle.
It would be nice if Wilson NXT would last a little longer, but most multifilaments are not going to have the same type of durability as other strings out there. For people who really struggle with not snapping strings, a 15 or 16 gauge is the best way to go. The 17 gauge is a little too thin for frequent string breakers.
Pros
- Excellent comfort
- Power is outstanding, and controllable
- Solid amount of touch
Cons
- Lacks durability
- Some players struggle to create a ton of spin
7. Luxilon Alu Power
Those who pay a lot of attention to strings know a lot about what the Luxilon brand brings to the table. As far as polyesters go, they have numerous options for players to choose from. Each one brings something slightly different to the table, but it’s generally considered that the ALU Power is their top solution on the market right now.
What makes it such a hot seller is that it does so many things well. Compared to other polyesters, it rates extremely high in just about every category. People love that they can get outstanding control with the string, and the touch is phenomenal as well. Not every polyester string can do both, but luckily they found a way to bring that to the table.
Spin is also available for anyone who hits strokes that way. It’s not going to appear magically, but it is possible for players who hit with spin in the first place.
Even when looking at comfort and power, two things that a lot of polyesters score low in, the string holds its own. It’s incredible to see Luxilon provide what is arguably the most well-rounded polyester on the market.
Pros
- Does everything well as a polyester
- Outstanding comfort for a stiff string
- Amazing touch on tough shots
Cons
- Slowly loses playability as tension drops
- Despite quality comfort level, still tough on the arm since it’s a polyester
8. Prince Premier Touch
A lot of people compare the Prince Premier Touch multifilament string to Wilson NXT. They have a lot of similarities, and although Prince is a little more expensive, some people feel like it’s worth the investment. It has just a little bit more comfort for players who want to take great care of their arm, and that makes a difference for a lot of people.
Along with increased comfort, power is also slightly better compared to Wilson NXT. They both provide a good amount of power that isn’t overwhelming, especially for flatter hitters.
The string overall is a great option for flat hitters, but those who enjoy putting topspin on the ball might not be quite as happy. This string doesn’t work for that type of player.
Pros
- Solid comfort
- Great power for a multifilament
- Perfect for flat hitters
Cons
- Hard to generate spin
- Lacks durability
9. Wilson Champions Choice Hybrid
Most tennis players are going to take one look at the price of the string and look elsewhere. Wilson’s Champions Choice Hybrid indeed is one of the most expensive tennis strings on the market. However, it’s not just a price made up out of thin air. In fact, the reason why it is so expensive comes down to the overall playability people get out of this option.
Simply put, there isn’t anything that this string doesn’t do well. It blends the positives of using natural gut and polyester at the same time. This allows players to really take advantage of outstanding control and touch on shots, without sacrificing power.
Maybe the only complaint comes down to durability, as everyone would like the string to last a little longer for as much as it costs. This is a string that keys in on top players who want to take their game to the next level. Those willing to invest will see instant results.
Pros
- Amazing control and touch on all shots
- Power and spend potential still there
- Comfortable on the arm
Cons
- Expensive
- Could be a bit more durable
10. Babolat VS Touch
Investing in a natural gut string is a costly move for any tennis player. This is usually only something that a well-trained player will opt for, simply because it doesn’t make a lot of sense for players learning to try something new in this regard.
Just like any natural gut out there, VS Touch consists of woven strands of cow intestine. It might seem a little weird for people not familiar with how natural gut has made, but it’s great to use thanks to its elasticity and ability to hold tension after quite a bit of play.
Why do people invest? Anyone looking for a combination of power and comfort won’t find anything better on the market today. Players can get a lot of free power and still have a decent amount of control when swinging through the ball.
The trade-off with any natural gut is most players are going to struggle to develop a decent amount of spin, and the durability of the string is not that great. From a spin perspective, Babolat VS Touch does a better job than most of the other natural guts out there. Durability is slightly better as well, making this the best option to consider.
Pros
- A lot of controllable, free power
- Most comfortable string on the market
- Hold tension well
Cons
- Struggles with spin like most other natural guts
- Starts to fray fairly early on
11. Technifibre X-One Biphase
A lot of tennis players believe that Technifibre makes some of the most underrated strings in the game right now. This option might be the best overall for players who are looking for a combination of comfort and power. It’s a multifilament, but it almost feels like a gut type of string thanks to the response and feels when taking cuts of the ball.
The one major drawback for this string is that players simply can’t get that much use out of them. Even people who typically don’t break too many strings will go through them a lot. It’s frustrating, but so many people fall in love with all the positives to invest anyway.
Pros
- Outstanding combination of comfort and power
- Plays a lot like a gut at a cheaper, multifilament price
- Works well in hybrid setups
Cons
- Breaks easily
- Struggles with spin
12. Volkl Cyclone Tour
Volkl is another one of those underrated brands that some people skip over initially, but all it takes is a playtest to see that this has solid value. The company does something a little different with their string, twisting it to create a unique type of shape. They shake and grip the ball and add some RPM to any kind of shot.
So why Volkl Cyclone Tour instead of the original Cyclone? The Tour offers more comfort and spin for players. It doesn’t sacrifice any of the original qualities, so overall it just seems like a step up for most types of players.
Pros
- Inexpensive option for great comfort & spin
- Unique string design for clean hitting
- A step up from Volkl Cyclone
Cons
- Although better than the original, still not incredibly durable
- A bit on the firm side
13. Head Hawk Touch
Head Hawk Touch is a string known for what’s in the name. Players who want outstanding touch and overall control on the court should give this a try, even if it feels a bit different at first. This is one of the strings that seems like it takes a bit of an adjustment, but once a player gets used to how it plays, it feels really good.
Most people who use the string will put it in a racquet with a bit of a more open string pattern. This allows players to utilize the spin opportunity.
Pros
- Great spin potential
- Excellent control
- Allows for big hitters to take huge cuts
Cons
- Runs a little expensive
- Doesn’t have any true standout features
14. Solinco Tour Bite Soft
A common complaint about a lot of players is the fact that polyester is just too tough on the arm. Players are always looking for a way to get a slightly more comfortable string to utilize so that they don’t have to stop because of arm pain. Solinco Tour Bite Soft might be the answer for people looking.
Players get to experience the spin and bite of the typical polyester, but the difference in the feel of the arm is apparent. What a player sacrifices is a bit of durability and control, but it’s a trade-off most are willing to make.
It’s still polyester, so they will be above average durability and control, just not the same level as some of the others.
Pros
- Very soft and comfortable
- Provides great bite on shots
- Pretty affordable for polyester
Cons
- Durability takes a bit of a hit
- Control is not as solid
What To Look For In Tennis Strings
While the tennis racquet gets a lot of attention, tennis strings make playability change quite a bit. There are many different options out there that people can pick from, and it mostly comes down to what players are hoping fits their game.
String Type
Strings come in many different types of material, ranging from natural gut to textured polyester. Many professional players are turning to polyester these days because they are durable, and they provide a good amount of spin potential for the modern game.
Playability
If a tennis player is looking for the best playability, natural gut is the way to go. The problem is, natural gut becomes very expensive, and it can occasionally be a little too fragile for some players to justify the price. There are also some multifilaments out there that are great for a little more durability, and it is usually a bit more affordable.
Durability
Durability strings are going to be the polyesters and Kevlar options out there. Players give up a little bit of playability, but it allows for heavy-hitting and a more modern hitting style.
Polyesters are starting to come in different shapes that help put more spin on the ball as well. Players looking for more bite on their shots can see a difference between smooth and textured options.
String Gauge
The two most common string gauge options are 16 and 17. There are also extreme options such as 15 for extra thick, and 18 for thin.
Players will go with a thinner string if they want more playability, while thicker strings will help with durability. Players who are constantly breaking strings might need to go to a 15 or 16 gauge to help cut down costs. It becomes costly to switch out strings every other week or more constantly.
Tension
Racquet tension for tennis strings can be very different, even at the highest level. Some pros are willing to string the racquet at 60 pounds or higher, while others will drop down to the 30s.
A racquet strung at a high tension will be a little tougher on a person’s arm. The higher tension also provides a bit more control, but less power.
The opposite applies to lowering tension, but people can get a pretty good feel of how things work by testing a few options out. Stick with a suggested tension option on the racquet frame and move up or down from there.
Final Thoughts
Although the strings listed above are some of the best available on the market right now, doesn’t mean that It will be the best fit for you. Just like the racquet itself, tennis strings are highly individual and shouldn’t solely be picked out of what someone else says about it.
If you are serious about your tennis equipment, you need to try at least a handful of different strings before eventually committing to one.
All tennis strings are different and composite better with different racquets. Just because Rafael Nadal strings his racquet with Babolat RPM Blast, doesn’t mean it will work well on the racquet that you play with.
Fortunately, tennis strings are extremely cheap these days, so go try some different strings and find out which one is more suitable for your play style and racquet.
For your convenience, here are all the strings I recommended above
- Prince Synthetic Gut
- Luxilon Big Banger Ace
- Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour
- Babolat RPM Blast
- Babolat RPM Blast Rough
- Wilson NXT
- Luxilon ALU Power
- Prince Premier Touch
- Wilson Champions Choice Hybrid
- Babolat VS Touch
- Technifibre X-One Biphase
- Volkl Cyclone Tour
- Head Hawk Touch
- Solinco Tour Bite Soft
