I recently tested Babolat’s new Xplore string in my Blade 98 and put Xcel in the other Blade for comparison. Xcel is an extremely popular multifilament and offers good access to power and comfort. Both however are made to be comfortable, powerful, and easy to play with on paper. For years, Xcel has been the best choice because it is soft, strong, and forgiving. However, Xplore is meant to be a more modern evolution that combines comfort with better control and durability. I was quietly impressed actually, especially with the tension holding and comfort levels.
Tech & specs
Babolat Xplore
The Xplore string is built around comfort, durability and a more controlled multifilament response.
- Material: Multifilament with reinforced fibres
- Construction: High-density fibres with added durability coating
- Gauges: 1.25/1.30/1.35 mm available (tested the 1.30mm)
Babolat Xcel
The Xcel string is built around maximum comfort, power and elasticity.
- Material: Multifilament with high polyurethane (PU) content
- Construction: Soft, elastic fibre structure
- Gauges: 1.25/1.30/1.35 mm available (tested the 1.30mm)
On-Court Comparison
Power
This is probably where I noticed the biggest difference. Xcel is far more powerful vs Xplore.
- Xcel: Easy, effortless power
- Xplore: Slightly more controlled power (really nice playability)
- Xcel gives you that classic multifilament “trampoline” effect, whereas Xplore does a really good job of taming the power slightly.
Verdict: Xcel wins in this category and it is very noticeable even in a more controlled frame like the Blade 98.
Control
This is where Xplore pulls ahead for me although independent lab tests score them the same I think Xplore gives more control which I assume is down to the elasticity (far higher for Xcel).
- Xplore has a ore predictable response vs Xcel
- Lower launch angle for Xplore
- Xplore better on full swings even as full bed (I can see this working well as a hybrid)
- Xcel can feel a bit lively, especially if you generate your own power easily
- Xplore feels more stable and controlled (even if lab stats don’t back that up)
Feel & Comfort
Both are comfortable but if anything Xplore edges this slightly.
- Xcel: comfortable more plush feeling
- Xplore: slightly firmer, more connected somehow
- Xplore does a better job of controlled power with more comfortable feel
Verdict: Xcel is more powerful, but actually Xplore feels more comfortable to me
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Spin
Neither is a spin string as a multi, but:
- Xcel: I think has just that bit more spin (I use it lower gauge for juniors for this reason)
- Xplore: slightly better grip and control I think but less spin generated
Verdict: Xcel edges the spin category slightly but not sure by too much if I’m honest.
Durability
Xplore performs fairly well here actually, albeit in the thicker 1.30mm gauge. But I would caveat this by saying that no multifilament is big on durability.
- Xcel: softer, saw fraying much earlier
- Xplore: more durable, held out better and it is still in my Blade now
Verdict: Xplore wins this round
Pros and cons
Babolat Xplore
Pros
- More control than most multis for me (X-One aside)
- Decent durability for a multi
- Really good tension holding
- Balanced performance overall
Cons
- Slightly less power than Xcel (but that can be a good thing)
- Not as plush or soft as Xcel
- Still not as durable as poly
Babolat Xcel
Pros
- Excellent power and nice plush premium feel
- Effortless power and depth
- Very forgiving
- Proven, trusted string (good spin in lower gauges for a multi)
Cons
- Can feel too lively at times
- Lower durability vs some multis
- Less control on bigger swings
- Tension drops quicker than Xplore
Who Each Racquet Suits
Choose Xplore if you:
- Want comfort but seek a bit more control (vs Xcel)
- Want a bit more durability from a multi (but be realistic)
- Play aggressively but still want a softer setup
- Prefer a more modern, controlled feel
- Like the blue colour (juniors love it)
Choose Xcel if you:
- Want maximum comfort and softness
- Need easy power and depth
- Prefer a plush, forgiving stringbed
- Play at beginner to intermediate level
Final Thoughts
Xcel is the classic choice because it offers the most comfort, easy power, and a soft, forgiving feel that works for a lot of players. Xplore, on the other hand, feels like the next step. It keeps the comfort but adds more control, stability, and durability for modern play.
Xcel is the way to go if you want a traditional, soft multifilament experience. But actually I have been quietly impressed with Xplore. It is actually a bit of an upgrade if you want something that lasts a bit longer and is more controlled without losing comfort.