Tennis stringing machine with mounted tennis racket illustration

Tennis String Tension Chart: Optimal Tension by String Type and Gauge

When it comes to tennis performance, string tension can make or break your game. Whether you're chasing more power, spin, or control, getting your tension right is essential — and it often depends on your string type and gauge.

In this guide, we’ve created a clear tennis string tension chart to help you choose the ideal setup based on your gear and style of play.


🧠 What Is Tennis String Tension?

Tennis string tension refers to how tightly the strings are pulled when installed in your racket, measured in pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kg). A standard range falls between 45–65 lbs.

  • 🎯 Lower tension (e.g. 45–50 lbs): more power, more comfort, less control
  • 🧵 Higher tension (e.g. 55–65 lbs): more control, less power, firmer feel

📊 Tennis String Tension Chart by String Type

Each string material responds differently under tension. Here's a recommended tension range based on the most common string types:

String Type Recommended Tension Range (lbs) Power Control Ideal For
Polyester 48–55 Low High Advanced players, heavy spin
Multifilament 50–60 High Medium Beginners to intermediates
Natural Gut 52–62 Very High Medium Comfort seekers, touch players
Hybrid (Poly/Multi) 50–58 Balanced Balanced All-court players

💡 Tip: Polyester strings lose tension faster — consider pre-stretching or stringing slightly tighter.


📐 Tennis String Gauge vs Tension: What's the Link?

Gauge refers to the thickness of a string. Thinner strings offer more spin and feel, while thicker ones offer better durability.

Here's how tension interacts with string gauge:

Gauge Diameter (mm) Suggested Tension Adjustment Performance
18 ~1.20 +1 to +2 lbs High spin, less durability
17 ~1.25 Baseline Balanced feel and performance
16 ~1.30 -1 to -2 lbs Durable, firmer, slight loss of feel

🔧 Thinner = string tighter. Thicker = string looser.


👤 Which Tension Is Right for You?

Use this simple guide based on your playing style:

Player Type Recommended Tension Reason
Beginner 52–57 lbs More control and comfort
Intermediate 50–55 lbs Balanced control and playability
Advanced / Power Hitter 48–53 lbs (poly) More spin and control with fast swings
Touch / Serve & Volley 55–60 lbs (multi/gut) Precision and feel at the net

🧵 Sam’s Strings Expert Combos

Want a quick recommendation? Try these popular setups from our workshop:

Need help choosing? Message us on WhatsApp for custom advice.


🎾 Final Thoughts: Finding Your Sweet Spot

There’s no one-size-fits-all string tension — it depends on your racket, string, and style. Use this guide as a baseline, then experiment in small increments (2–3 lbs) to dial in your perfect feel.

📲 Ready to restring? Book your restringing service with Sam’s Strings today — or drop us a WhatsApp message for personalised advice.

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