Badminton players often describe strings using words like:
- “crispy”
- “repulsive”
- “solid”
- “muted”
- “explosive”
But have you ever wondered if those feelings can actually be measured scientifically?
A recent student research paper published by Analise Keym titled Polymer Microstructure Effects on Impact Response, Frequency Dynamics, and Vibrational Signatures in High-Performance Badminton Racket Strings tried to answer exactly that question. The study compared three of the most recognizable badminton strings:
- Yonex BG66 Ultimax
- Yonex BG80
- Yonex BG65
Using impact sensors and vibration analysis, the researchers measured how each string reacted during shuttle impact.
The results were surprisingly aligned with what many badminton players already feel on court.
Why Do Different Strings Feel Different?
According to the research, the answer comes down to:
- elasticity
- vibration behavior
- energy transfer
- polymer microstructure
In simple terms, some strings return energy faster after impact, while others absorb more energy and reduce vibration.
That creates the difference between:
- explosive vs controlled feel
- sharp vs soft feel
- lively vs dampened response
This is one of the clearest scientific explanations behind the famous “string feel” discussion in badminton.
BG66 Ultimax, The Explosive Speed String
The study found that BG66 Ultimax produced:
- the highest acceleration
- the fastest rebound response
- the quickest recovery after impact
In badminton terms, this means:
- faster shuttle release
- stronger repulsion
- easier access to power
- sharper hitting feel
The string behaves more elastically, meaning it snaps back quickly after impact.
This may explain why attacking players love BG66 Ultimax during:
- smashes
- drives
- fast flat exchanges
- quick interceptions at the net
However, the study also showed that BG66 Ultimax generated stronger vibrations compared to the other strings tested.
That “crispy” sensation many players enjoy may actually come from measurable vibration behavior.
For some players, that sharp feel creates confidence and feedback.
For others, it may feel too harsh during longer sessions.
BG65, The Stable and Forgiving Choice
BG65 showed almost the opposite behavior in the study.
The researchers observed:
- lower vibration intensity
- slower rebound
- higher energy absorption
- more dampened response
On court, this translates to:
- softer feel
- better comfort
- more forgiving response
- less explosive repulsion
This explains why BG65 remains one of the most trusted strings worldwide despite newer technology entering the market.
Many coaches, beginners, and durability-focused players still prefer BG65 because it feels stable and predictable.
The reduced vibration may also contribute to less fatigue during extended play.
BG80, The Balanced All-Rounder
BG80 landed between BG66 Ultimax and BG65 in most measurements.
The research suggests BG80 offers:
- strong repulsion
- moderate vibration
- balanced energy transfer
- solid hitting feedback
This supports the reputation BG80 has built among intermediate and advanced players over the years.
Many players describe BG80 as:
- powerful but controlled
- hard-feeling but manageable
- sharp without becoming overly harsh
For players who want attacking performance without the extreme response of ultra-thin strings, BG80 may offer an ideal balance.
One of the Biggest Insights, Thin Strings Really Do Recover Faster
Badminton players often say thinner strings feel more repulsive.
This study provides scientific evidence supporting that idea.
The research suggests thinner, high-elastic strings recover more quickly after impact because of their polymer structure and elasticity.
That faster recovery may help during:
- rapid exchanges
- continuous drives
- fast counterattacks
- high-speed doubles rallies
In other words, the “speed” players feel from certain strings may not just be psychological.
More Vibration Is Not Always Better
One particularly interesting finding was the difference in vibration behavior.
BG66 Ultimax generated stronger oscillations, while BG65 absorbed vibrations more effectively.
This helps explain why:
- some players love crisp feedback
- others prefer muted comfort
A stronger vibration signature can feel exciting and responsive, but it may also feel tiring for certain players over long sessions.
The researchers noted that more studies are needed regarding vibration and arm stress, but the findings already give useful insight into player comfort.
What This Means for Different Types of Players
Attacking Players
You may prefer:
- thinner strings
- high-repulsion setups
- faster rebound response
Examples:
These setups may help generate quicker shuttle acceleration and sharper response.
Control or Comfort Players
You may prefer:
- thicker strings
- softer feel
- more dampened vibration
Examples:
These setups may provide better comfort, forgiveness, and consistency.
Stringers and Racket Shops
This research is especially valuable because it helps explain:
- why different strings feel different
- why repulsion is measurable
- why durability and feel are usually trade-offs
It gives scientific backing to what experienced players and stringers have observed for years.
Final Thoughts
One important thing to remember is that this research was conducted under controlled laboratory conditions using sensors and impact analysis.
Real badminton performance still depends heavily on:
- player technique
- string tension
- racket frame
- shaft stiffness
- swing speed
Still, this study gives fascinating insight into the science behind badminton string feel.
The next time someone says:
“This string feels more explosive”
or “This setup feels softer and more controlled”
there may actually be measurable physics behind it.
For badminton players, that makes the world of strings even more interesting.
The research behind this study was conducted by Analise Keym, a varsity badminton player from Wantagh High School in the United States. As an attacking-style player herself, Analise became curious about how different badminton strings affect performance and realized there was very little scientific research available on the topic.
Motivated to fill that gap, she spent nearly a year conducting experiments for her AP Research project, testing different badminton strings using accelerometers to measure shuttlecock impact and vibration response. Her work eventually earned the highest AP Research score possible and was officially published in the Journal of High School Science, making her only the second student from her school’s AP Capstone program to achieve publication. Her study stands out because it combines real badminton experience with scientific analysis, creating practical insights that badminton players can actually relate to and use.
Do you know?
At Badminton Bay, these strings are available for selection in our customize stringing service, allowing players to choose the feel and performance that best suits their game.