YONEX Badminton String Guide: Which String Should You Choose?

Your badminton string is the only part of the racquet that actually makes contact with the shuttle, so choosing the right string can make a noticeable difference to how your racquet feels and performs.

Some players want maximum repulsion and a crisp hitting sound. Others prioritize durability, while technical players may prefer more shuttle hold, spin and control.

At Can Pro Shop, we offer a wide selection of YONEX badminton strings for different playing styles and skill levels. But with choices such as BG65, BG80, EXBOLT 63, EXBOLT 65, AEROBITE and more, how do you know which one is right for you?

This guide compares all YONEX badminton strings currently offered in our stringing selection, including their gauge, main characteristics and the types of players they are best suited for.

Quick Answer: Which YONEX String Should I Choose?

If you do not want to compare every string individually, use this quick guide as a starting point.

There is no single “best” badminton string for everyone. Your ideal string depends on your technique, playing style, preferred feel and how much durability you need.

Complete YONEX Badminton String Comparison

Choose a YONEX String by What You Want From Your Game

For Quick Repulsion & Speed

Consider:

EXBOLT 63 · EXBOLT 65 · BG66 ULTIMAX · BG80 · BG80 POWER · NANOGY 98

These strings are suited to players who value fast shuttle response, quick drives and a lively stringbed.

For Durability

Consider:

EXBOLT 68 · BG65 · BG65 Titanium · NANOGY 95

If you play frequently or tend to break strings, durability may be more important than choosing the thinnest possible option.

Gauge is not the only factor affecting durability. EXBOLT 68, for example, uses YONEX's OVAL FORGED FIBER construction to combine performance with excellent durability.

For Control, Spin & Shuttle Hold

Consider:

AEROBITE · AEROBITE BOOST · SKYARC

AEROBITE and AEROBITE BOOST use hybrid constructions with different main and cross strings, making them especially interesting for players who use slices, net shots and changes of direction.

SKYARC takes a different approach and focuses more on shuttle hold and helping players produce effective high clears.

YONEX BG Series

YONEX BG65 — The Classic Durability Choice

Gauge: 0.70 mm

Best for: Durability, frequent play and dependable performance

BG65 is one of YONEX's classic badminton strings and remains a straightforward choice for players who prioritize durability and consistency.

Its 0.70 mm gauge is thicker than most performance-focused strings in this guide. While it does not provide the ultra-fast response of strings such as EXBOLT 63 or BG66 ULTIMAX, durability is where BG65 stands out.

Choose BG65 if:

• You prioritize string life.
• You play regularly and want a dependable setup.
• You do not need maximum repulsion.
• You want a reliable starting point before experimenting with thinner strings.

In short: reliable, durable and uncomplicated.

YONEX BG65 Titanium — Sharper Feel for Hard Hitters

Gauge: 0.70 mm

Best for: Hard hitters who prefer a sharper impact feel

BG65 Titanium uses the same 0.70 mm gauge as BG65 but adds a Compound Titanium Hydride coating.

The coating gives the string a sharper yet comfortable impact character, making BG65 Titanium an appealing option for harder hitters who still want the substantial feel of a 0.70 mm string.

BG65 vs BG65 Titanium

Choose BG65 when traditional durability and dependability are your main priorities.

Choose BG65 Titanium if you want a similar 0.70 mm gauge but prefer a sharper, more distinctive response at impact.

YONEX BG66 — Classic Thin-Gauge Response

Gauge: 0.66 mm

Best for: Players looking for a thinner and more responsive string

BG66 is a classic YONEX thin-gauge badminton string. At 0.66 mm, it is noticeably thinner than BG65's 0.70 mm construction and provides a lighter, more responsive playing character.

Choose BG66 if:

• You prefer a thinner string than BG65.
• You want a lively and responsive stringbed.
• You already know and enjoy the classic BG66 feel.

YONEX BG66 ULTIMAX — Crisp Quick Repulsion

Gauge: 0.65 mm

Best for: Fast attacking play, quick drives and crisp response

BG66 ULTIMAX is one of YONEX's best-known thin performance strings. Its 0.65 mm construction is designed around quick repulsion and a lively hitting response.

The thinner construction creates excellent response, although players who frequently break strings may prefer a more durability-oriented option.

Choose BG66 ULTIMAX if:

• You love crisp shuttle response.
• You play fast doubles.
• You value repulsion and hitting sound.
• You are willing to trade some durability for a thinner, livelier string.

Think: fast, crisp and lively.

YONEX BG80 vs BG80 POWER

BG80 and BG80 POWER both use a 0.68 mm gauge and incorporate VECTRAN, but they have different constructions and playing characteristics.

YONEX BG80 — Firm, Direct and Responsive

Gauge: 0.68 mm

Best for: Aggressive players who like a direct response

BG80 is an excellent option for players who prefer a firm and direct connection with the shuttle.

Its construction combines VECTRAN with an oval-shaped braided outer structure. At 0.68 mm, it sits between ultra-thin strings such as EXBOLT 63 and thicker strings such as BG65.

Choose BG80 if:

• You like a firm and direct response.
• You prioritize precision and feedback.
• You want quick repulsion without using an ultra-thin string.

YONEX BG80 POWER — More Repulsion for Attacking Play

Gauge: 0.68 mm

Best for: Powerful attacking shots and smash-oriented players

BG80 POWER shares BG80's 0.68 mm gauge but uses a different construction designed to emphasize powerful response and repulsion.

BG80 vs BG80 POWER

BG80: choose it for the classic firm and direct BG80 response.

BG80 POWER: choose it if you want the BG80 family but place greater emphasis on repulsion and attacking power.

YONEX EXBOLT 63 vs 65 vs 68

The three EXBOLT strings are designed around different performance priorities.

YONEX EXBOLT 63 — Maximum Quick Repulsion

Gauge: 0.63 mm

Best for: Speed, fast drives and rapid exchanges

EXBOLT 63 is the thinnest conventional string in the Can Pro Shop selection.

YONEX uses its FORGED FIBER material to combine an extremely thin 0.63 mm gauge with quick repulsion and improved durability for its thickness.

Choose EXBOLT 63 if:

• Speed is your top priority.
• You play fast doubles.
• You hit lots of drives and counter-attacks.
• You enjoy a sharp and lively response.

Think: maximum speed.

YONEX EXBOLT 65 — The Balanced EXBOLT

Gauge: 0.65 mm

Best for: All-round competitive players

EXBOLT 65 combines YONEX's FORGED FIBER technology with an Elasticity Outer coating designed to increase shuttle hold and control.

It provides an appealing middle ground for players who want quick repulsion without leaning too far toward either an ultra-thin speed string or a thicker durability-focused string.

Choose EXBOLT 65 if:

• You want quick repulsion.
• You also care about control.
• You want strong durability for a relatively thin string.
• You need one versatile option for an all-round game.

Think: speed + control + durability.

YONEX EXBOLT 68 — Power and Maximum Durability

Gauge: 0.68 mm

Best for: Hard hitters and players who prioritize durability

EXBOLT 68 moves the EXBOLT series toward a more power- and durability-focused direction.

Its OVAL FORGED FIBER construction is designed to efficiently transfer energy at impact while providing excellent durability.

Choose EXBOLT 68 if:

• You break strings frequently.
• You hit hard.
• You prioritize durability.
• You want the most power-oriented EXBOLT option.

Think: powerful, durable and solid.

EXBOLT 63 vs EXBOLT 65 vs EXBOLT 68

Choose EXBOLT 63 for maximum speed.
Choose EXBOLT 65 for versatility.
Choose EXBOLT 68 for power and durability.

YONEX NANOGY 95 vs NANOGY 98

The two NANOGY strings available at Can Pro Shop target different priorities.

YONEX NANOGY 95 — Speed Meets Durability

Gauge: 0.69 mm

Best for: Players who want durability without giving up repulsion

NANOGY 95 uses YONEX's Compound Cup-Stack Carbon Nanotube technology and is designed to combine good repulsion with strong durability.

Choose NANOGY 95 if:

• You play frequently.
• Durability matters to you.
• You still want a responsive stringbed.
• You want a balance between longevity and speed.

YONEX NANOGY 98 — Thin and Quick

Gauge: 0.66 mm

Best for: Quick repulsion and responsive play

NANOGY 98 is considerably thinner than NANOGY 95. Its 0.66 mm construction is focused more heavily on quick response and repulsion.

Choose NANOGY 98 if:

• You prioritize quick shuttle response.
• You prefer a thinner string.
• You play a fast all-round or defensive game.

NANOGY 95 vs NANOGY 98

NANOGY 95 → durability + repulsion
NANOGY 98 → quicker response + thinner feel

YONEX SKYARC — Shuttle Hold and High Clears

Gauge: 0.69 mm

Best for: Players wanting shuttle hold and easier high clears

SKYARC is different from many of the faster and harder-feeling strings in this guide.

Its construction incorporates Hi-Sling Fiber and is designed around increased shuttle hold and helping players produce effective high clears.

Choose SKYARC if:

• You want help producing deep clears.
• You prioritize shuttle hold.
• You do not necessarily want a very hard-feeling performance string.
• You prefer a more forgiving playing character.

Think: hold, depth and control.

YONEX AEROBITE vs AEROBITE BOOST

AEROBITE and AEROBITE BOOST are different from the conventional strings above because they are hybrid badminton strings.

This means the main strings and cross strings use different gauges and constructions to create a unique combination of shuttle grip, response, spin and control.

YONEX AEROBITE — Spin and Precision

Main: 0.67 mm

Cross: 0.61 mm

Best for: Net play, slices, spin and technical control

AEROBITE combines 0.67 mm polyurethane-coated main strings with very thin 0.61 mm cross strings.

The combination is designed to provide quick repulsion and strong spin potential, while the coated mains increase shuttle hold and bite.

AEROBITE is particularly suited to players who use:

• Tight net shots
• Slices
• Deception
• Cut shots
• Changes of shuttle direction

Think: grip, spin and precision.

YONEX AEROBITE BOOST — Powerful Smash and Sharp Spin

Main: 0.72 mm

Cross: 0.61 mm

Best for: Aggressive players who want smash power with hybrid-string control

AEROBITE BOOST retains the thin 0.61 mm cross string but uses a significantly thicker 0.72 mm VECTRAN main string.

It is designed around a combination of powerful smashes and sharp spin.

AEROBITE vs AEROBITE BOOST

Which YONEX String Matches Your Playing Style?

Fast Doubles / Drive Player

Start with EXBOLT 63, BG66 ULTIMAX or NANOGY 98.

These strings emphasize fast shuttle response and quick repulsion, making them suitable for fast doubles exchanges, drives and counter-attacking play.

All-Round Competitive Player

Start with EXBOLT 65 or BG80.

EXBOLT 65 is particularly attractive if you want a combination of repulsion, control and durability, while BG80 provides a firmer and more direct response.

Rear-Court / Smash Player

Start with EXBOLT 68, BG80 POWER or AEROBITE BOOST.

These options are well suited to players whose game relies heavily on rear-court attacks and smashes.

Net & Technical Player

Start with AEROBITE or AEROBITE BOOST.

Their hybrid constructions make them particularly interesting for slices, spin, deception and precise shuttle control.

Frequent String Breaker

Start with EXBOLT 68, BG65 or NANOGY 95.

These options are better suited to players who prioritize string life and durability.

Beginner or Recreational Player

A sensible starting point is BG65.

Its 0.70 mm construction and durability make it a practical choice while developing more consistent contact.

Once you know what you want to change—more speed, more control, a sharper response or more power—you can move toward a more specialized string.

Does Badminton String Gauge Matter?

Yes, but gauge alone does not determine how a badminton string performs.

In general, thinner strings can provide a livelier and quicker response, while thicker strings traditionally offer a more substantial feel and greater durability.

However, string construction and materials are also extremely important.

For example, BG65 is 0.70 mm, while EXBOLT 68 is 0.68 mm. Despite being thinner, EXBOLT 68 uses YONEX's OVAL FORGED FIBER technology to provide outstanding durability.

For this reason, you should not choose a badminton string based on diameter alone.

What Badminton String Tension Should You Use?

Your choice of string and your string tension should be considered together.

In general, lower tension provides a larger and more forgiving sweet spot, while higher tension produces a firmer and more precise response but requires more consistent technique.

There is no universal tension that is correct for every badminton player or every racquet.

Always check the recommended string tension range printed on your specific racquet and avoid exceeding the manufacturer's maximum specification.

If you are unsure, the Can Pro Shop team can help you select an appropriate combination of string and tension based on your racquet, experience and playing style.

Frequently Asked Questions About YONEX Badminton Strings

What is the most durable YONEX badminton string in this guide?

EXBOLT 68 is YONEX's most durability-focused current option in this selection. Its 0.68 mm OVAL FORGED FIBER construction is designed to combine durability with powerful performance.

What is the best YONEX string for quick repulsion?

If maximum speed is your priority, EXBOLT 63 is a natural starting point.

Its 0.63 mm gauge and FORGED FIBER construction are designed around quick repulsion and a sharp, lively response.

BG66 ULTIMAX and EXBOLT 65 are also excellent choices for players looking for quick repulsion.

EXBOLT 63 or EXBOLT 65: Which should I choose?

Choose EXBOLT 63 if you prioritize maximum speed and very quick shuttle response.

Choose EXBOLT 65 if you want a more balanced combination of repulsion, control and durability.

EXBOLT 65 or EXBOLT 68?

Choose EXBOLT 65 for a quicker, more balanced all-round setup.

Choose EXBOLT 68 if power and durability are higher priorities.

BG65 or BG65 Titanium?

Both strings use a 0.70 mm gauge.

Choose BG65 for classic durability and dependable performance.

Choose BG65 Titanium if you prefer a sharper impact feel produced by its Compound Titanium Hydride coating.

BG80 or BG80 POWER?

Both strings use a 0.68 mm gauge and incorporate VECTRAN.

Choose BG80 for its classic firm, direct response.

Choose BG80 POWER if you want to emphasize repulsion, attacking shots and smash power.

NANOGY 95 or NANOGY 98?

Choose NANOGY 95 when you want a combination of durability and repulsion.

Choose NANOGY 98 if you prefer a thinner 0.66 mm string with a quicker response.

AEROBITE or AEROBITE BOOST?

Choose AEROBITE for quick response, shuttle grip, spin and technical control.

Choose AEROBITE BOOST if you want sharp spin combined with a thicker, more power-oriented 0.72 mm VECTRAN main string.

Find the Right YONEX Badminton String at Can Pro Shop

The best badminton string is not necessarily the thinnest, most expensive or most powerful option. The right string is the one that matches how you actually play.

For durability, consider BG65 or EXBOLT 68.

For lightning-fast response, look at EXBOLT 63 or BG66 ULTIMAX.

For a balanced competitive setup, EXBOLT 65 is an excellent place to start.

For firm attacking performance, consider BG80 or BG80 POWER.

If spin and precise shuttle control are priorities, explore AEROBITE or AEROBITE BOOST.

Need help choosing? Visit Can Pro Shop and ask our team which YONEX badminton string and tension best match your racquet, playing level and style.

String colours listed as “Color Assigned by Store” are selected according to current availability.