Badminton String Types Explained: BG 65, BG 80 Power, Exbolt 63 and Exbolt 65 (India)
Thin strings give repulsion, thicker strings last longer. Here is a practical comparison of Yonex BG 65, BG 80 Power and Exbolt strings.
Badminton string types explained: why the string matters as much as the racket
Many club players spend thousands on a racket and then fit the cheapest string available. In reality, the string is what touches the shuttle, so the choice of badminton string affects feel, power and durability. This guide compares five popular Yonex strings available at InstaSport: BG 65, BG 65 Titanium, BG 80 Power, Exbolt 63 and Exbolt 65. We list specifications as the manufacturer gives them; always check the product page for current details.
What string gauge tells you
Gauge is the thickness of the string, shown in millimetres. A thinner string (lower number) generally gives more repulsion and a sharper feel but breaks sooner. A thicker string lasts longer but feels slightly less lively. Think of it as a trade-off between performance and durability.
| String | Typical character | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Yonex BG 65 (0.70 mm) | Durable, comfortable, all-round | Beginners, club players, frequent players |
| Yonex BG 65 Titanium (0.70 mm) | Similar to BG 65 with extra repulsion | Players who want a bit more pop with durability |
| Yonex BG 80 Power | Crisp, sharp hitting sound and feel | Attacking players who like feedback |
| Yonex Exbolt 63 | Very thin, high repulsion, lively | Skilled players, control and speed |
| Yonex Exbolt 65 | Thin but a little more durable than 63 | Intermediate to advanced players |
The strings in detail
Yonex BG 65: the durable all-rounder
Often the first string recommended to club players, BG 65 balances feel and durability. Our catalogue lists the Yonex BG 65 0.70mm (₹508) and the Yonex BG 65 Titanium 0.70mm (₹502) at similar prices. If you play three or four times a week and do not want to restring every month, start here.
Yonex BG 80 Power: crisp and attacking
BG 80 Power is popular with players who like a firm, crisp feel on smashes and clears. Its feel is livelier than BG 65, though it may not last as long. The Yonex BG 80 Power (₹648) is available here; check the listing for pack length.
Yonex Exbolt 63 and Exbolt 65: thin and fast
The Exbolt line uses a thinner gauge to give repulsion and a fast feel. The Yonex BG Exbolt 63 (₹772) is thinner and livelier than the Yonex BG Exbolt 65 (₹1,000), which trades a little repulsion for better lifespan. Both can break sooner than BG 65, so they suit players who restring regularly and want a sharper feel.
What tension should you choose?
Lower tension gives more power and a larger sweet spot; higher tension gives more control but requires better technique. As a rough guide, beginners often start around 20 to 24 lbs, intermediate players around 24 to 27 lbs and advanced players higher, always within the racket's recommended range printed on the frame. Thin strings should usually be strung a little lower to reduce breakage. Our guide on string tension in India covers this in more detail.
How often should you restring?
There is no fixed schedule. Restring when the string breaks, when the feel goes dead or when you see the strings notching and fraying. Players who play often usually restring every two to three months; casual players less often. Humidity and heavy smashing both shorten string life. See our restringing guide for the signs.
Quick recommendation
- Beginner or casual player: BG 65 (0.70 mm).
- Club player who wants more feel: BG 65 Titanium or BG 80 Power.
- Advanced attacking player: Exbolt 63 or Exbolt 65, strung at a sensible tension.
Whichever string you choose, ask a stringer to string it correctly and to confirm your racket's maximum tension before you go beyond the manufacturer's range.
Shop the gear
- Yonex BG 65 0.70mm Badminton String (₹508)
- Yonex BG 65 Titanium 0.70mm Badminton String (₹502)
- Yonex BG 80 Power Badminton String (₹648)
- Yonex BG Exbolt 63 Badminton String (₹772)
- Yonex BG Exbolt 65 Badminton String (₹1,000)
Related reading
- Badminton Racket String Tension in India: How Many Pounds Is Right?
- How Often Should You Restring a Badminton Racket? Costs and Signs (India)
- Badminton Stringing at Home in India: Machine Costs, Tools and Is It Worth It?
Frequently asked questions
Which Yonex string is best for beginners?
Yonex BG 65 (0.70 mm) is a common beginner and club choice because it balances feel with durability.
Why do thin badminton strings break sooner?
A thinner gauge has less material to resist friction and impact, so it gives more repulsion but wears out faster than a thicker string.
What tension should a beginner string a badminton racket at?
Many beginners start at around 20 to 24 lbs, staying within the maximum tension printed on the racket frame. A stringer can advise on your specific racket.
