Hi everyone,

I am embarking on a major project to scientifically test badminton strings across various brands and models. My goal is to build a comprehensive, open-source database so players and stringers can make informed decisions based on objective lab and court data rather than just marketing claims.

Before I fully dive into testing, I want to run my methodology past the experienced stringers and equipment experts here to see if I’m missing anything important. Here is my current testing plan:

Phase 1: Physical Specs & Lab Data

1. Actual vs. Claimed Gauge: Measuring the true thickness using a digital micrometer vs. the manufacturer’s claim on the package.
2. Actual vs. Claimed Weight: Measuring the exact mass of a standard 10-meter pack to see how different strings might affect racket head weight.
3. Ultimate Tensile Strength (Breaking Point): Pulling the strings to find the absolute maximum tension before they snap.
4. Elongation Profiling (Elasticity vs. Plasticity): Testing temporary (elastic) vs. permanent (plastic/creep) stretch. I plan to pull strings to 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, and 90% of their breaking point to measure elongation and recovery.
5. Microscopic Stress Analysis: Taking high-resolution microscopic photos of the outer jacket and core at these elongation levels to document when and where micro-cracks and core separation begin.

Phase 2: Playability & Retention6. Tension Bleed / Creep: Tracking dynamic tension loss at three intervals: right off the machine, after a 24-hour resting period, and after 10 hours of active gameplay.7. Microscopic Wear-and-Tear: Taking macro photos of the sweet spot intersections at those same intervals (0h, 24h, 10h) to visually document coating durability, friction wear, and notching depth.

Where I need your help:Since I want this database to be the ultimate resource for the community, I would love your feedback on the following:

1. Additional Tests: Are there any other measurable lab or court tests you’ve always wanted to see performed on strings?
2. Comparison Table Parameters: When I build the final open-source spreadsheet, what specific columns/data points do you personally look for and consider absolute must-haves?
3. Strings to Test: I have currently ordered the entire lineup of Li-Ning and Hundred strings. I will be testing the standard Yonex lineup as soon as my local suppliers restock. Beyond these, what specific models from other brands should I prioritize?

Any advice, critique of the methodology, or suggestions would be massively appreciated. I will share all the results and photos with the community once the testing begins!

Thanks in advance,

Additional Tests I Can Perform​

• The Pitch/Frequency Test (Hz): Badminton players are obsessed with hitting sound. Right after stringing a control racket at your standard tension (e.g., 26 lbs), use a free Frequency Analyzer app on your phone, tap the sweet spot with a pen, and record the exact pitch in Hertz (Hz). Higher Hz = a crisper sound.
• Thickness Under Tension: A string might measure 0.65mm unstrung, but thin out to 0.61mm when pulled at 28 lbs. Measuring the thickness while it is under tension will yield fascinating data on how aerodynamic the stringbed actually is during play.
• Surface Friction (Bite): How slippery or rough is the string? You can test this by dragging a weighted piece of the same string across the string bed to measure resistance. Rough strings give more "bite" and spin for slice drops.
• Knot Shear Test: Sometimes strings don't break in the middle; they snap at the tie-off knots because the coating is brittle. Test how well the outer coating survives being pulled and tied tightly into a standard Parnell knot.
• Recommend columns:
  
  • Brand & Model
  • Claimed Gauge (mm)
  • Actual Gauge Unstrung (mm) vs. Actual Gauge at 28lbs (mm)
  • Weight per 10m (grams)
  • Max Breaking Point (lbs/kg)
  • Stretch Factor (%) (Tells stringers how much they need to pre-stretch it)
  • Tension Loss After 24 Hours (%)
  • Tension Loss After 10 Hours of Play (%)
  • Acoustic Pitch (Hz at 26 lbs)
  • Notch Resistance Rating (1-10) (Based on your 10-hour microscope photos)