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A tennis stringing machine is a must-have item for players who want to save money and time. You’d no longer have to go to a tennis pro store for restringing.
Nowadays, these stringing machines come with a lot of features you can choose from depending on your needs and preferences. The most significant thing to remember is that there are machines for personal as well as professional use.
There’s a difference between a machine you’d use only now and then when your strings break and the one you’d use a few times a week if you have a tennis shop.
We researched the market to find the greatest stringing model that’s affordable, time-efficient, and accurate. Below you’ll find the most popular tennis machines currently on the market.
Before you proceed to the best tennis stringing machines for 2023, take a moment to read our buyer’s guide. You’ll learn all the essential info about what to look for if you’re buying one for the first time.
Racquet Stringer Buyer’s Guide
A good tennis stringing machine will help you customize your racquet and save money time spent in shops. It’s a good investment, but what if you’ve never bought one before? Here are a few simple factors you should consider to help you with your final decision:
Portability
There are two general models here; a tabletop and a standalone machine. A tabletop is more suitable if you think you’ll want to move it around from time to time. It’s easier to carry around because it’s not connected to any table. A standalone is sturdier, and it stands on its own. It usually comes with several advanced features, but it’s also often on a pricey side.
Type
You can choose between an electronic, manual, and drop weight stringing models. The difference between the three is most often in the ease of use and accuracy. However, there’s no one way someone can recommend you one out of the three because it’s really up to you to decide which one suits your needs and preferences the most.
Drop Weight
Model uses a rod to determine tension with a movable and adjustable weight at the end. Moving the weight farther outward results in higher pressure, while you get a lower tension if you move it in the opposite direction. These are usually the slowest and least accurate of the three. However, they are also the most affordable and need almost no maintenance at all.
Manual
Machine uses a crank with a pre-loaded sprint to get the greatest tension. Once you get the desired tension, a locking mechanism keeps it in place before the string is clamped. These are accurate and affordable but require the most effort than any other type.
Electronic
ones use a computer-operated motor to tension the strings. They are easy to use and mostly need just a push of a button. This makes them the fastest stringing machines although they are more on the expensive side.
Mounting
Machines come in a 2, 4, or 6-point mounting system. This is the number of points in which your racket comes into contact with the machine. So, 2 and 4-point models hold the frame at the throat and head only. It’s quick, but less supportive especially if you have a larger racquet. A 6-point one is more suitable if you need added stability.
Clamps
This is what holds the tennis strings in place. There are two types: fixed and floating. Floating ones aren’t attached to the machine. It works by using one string to hold the tension of another. These usually come with basic machines but don’t have the best tension consistency. Fixed clamps can swivel or not. Those that don’t swivel only glide on a bar system, while those that swivel rotates 360 degrees and are easier to use. They are also the most expensive type often only found at high-end machines.
Support
Unless your stringing machine has a good support system, the racquet might break while you string it. The entire process is putting stress on the frame so you want to protect it as much as you can. Look for the machine that has direct and wide supports, so your racquet doesn’t end up damaged or broken.
Best Tennis Racquet Stringing Machine
OUR TOP PICK
Gamma Progression II 200
Key Features:
- Comes with tools
- Tutorial included
- The turntable rotates for 360 degrees
If you’re a beginner, this Gamma tennis stringing machine might be the top choice for you to practice on. It’s accurate enough providing impressive quality of performance. Its broad design along with other features makes this one easy to use and gain experience.
It’s a drop weight machine with an 8-90lb. range. This gives you plenty of options to work on many different racquets strings. Also, its turntable rotates for 360 degrees making the entire process even easier. The Progression II 200 comes with a US Racquet Stringers Association guide allowing you to learn all the steps first hand. It’s a detailed tutorial that’s quite helpful along the way especially if you’re a complete beginner.
This one features two point mounting system that keeps the frame in place. It isn’t the most secure system, but it works well for at-home practice. It comes with a straight awl, Pathfinder, straight pliers, and hex wrenches.
The machine doesn’t feature a cover or a floor stand, but you can purchase both separately from the manufacturer. It’s an easy-to-use machine that’s also easily portable. It works great for tennis racquets, as well as those for racquetball, badminton, and squash.
Pros:
- Moderate weight
- Allows a more powerful hit with less effort
- Very affordable
- Durable
- Improves backhand quality
- Open string pattern
Cons:
- Only two mounting points
- PERFECT STRING TENSION: Provides drop weight tensioning (8lb to 90lb) with a 360 steel bar turntable
- 2 POINT MOUNTING: Designed for quick, easy stringing, this machine uses a 2 point mounting system
- VERSATILE STRINGER: You can use this machine on tennis, racquetball, squash or badminton racquets
- TOOL TRAY: Keep all your restring tools within easy reach while you work with the built-in tray
- TOOL SET: Includes pathfinder awl, straight awl, hex wrenches, pliers, and diagonal cutter
EDITORS CHOICE
Gamma Progression II 602FC Tennis Stringing Machine
Key Features:
- Diamond coated clamps
- Self-locking knob
- 6-point mount system
The Gamma Progression II 602FC has an engraved weight scale and a tension range of 8lbs to 90lbs. With the 6-point mount system, it’s among the most secure machines on the market. Its ability to hold the frame in place is mostly the reason why many people opt to use it. The end result is always precise and accurate.
Its durable dual string clamps are easy to use. Plus, they work with all kinds of different strings providing the same quality. The clamps swivel for 360 degrees and are diamond-coated for better durability. The machine also features self-locking knob to secure the clamps even better.
The Progression II 602FC stringing machine has a tool tray to keep all your accessories and tools at hand. This will make it easier for you to work as you won’t have to look for what you need constantly. The tray is 64sq. in. big and comes with a straight awl, hex wrenches, Pathfinder, straight pliers, and a razor knife.
It’s not fixed onto anything, so you can store it away with ease when not in use. Though it doesn’t come with a stand, you can order one separately. The machine comes with a detailed tutorial by the United States Racquet Stringers Association.
Pros:
- Durable
- Accurate
- Professional-use
Cons:
- Only available in the USA
- PERFECT STRING TENSION: Offers drop-weight tensioning (9lb to 90lb) with a 360 steel bar turntable
- 6 POINT MOUNTING: Designed for easy and safe stringing that will keep your racket firmly in place
- VERSATILE STRINGER: You can use this machine on tennis, racquetball, squash or badminton racquets
- TOOL TRAY: Keep all your restring tools within easy reach while you work with the built-in tray
- TOOL SET: Includes pathfinder awl, straight awl, hex wrenches, pliers, and diagonal cutter
BEST VALUE
Gamma X-2 Tennis Stringing Machine
Key Features:
- It’s electric
- Digital panel
- Comes with tools
The Gamma X-2 has a 2-point mounting system holding your frame in place. This mounting system isn’t as secure so that some racquets might wobble at times. For this reason, the machine is mostly recommended for home use and not for tennis shops.
This tennis stringing machine one comes with a digital panel where you adjust the tension. It has nine memory settings and allows you to read the tension in kg and lbs. It’s a useful feature that also shows pre-stretch, knot function, pulling speed, and internal diagnostic check.
The main difference between this and many other Gamma tennis stringing machines is that this one is electric with a range of 9 to 90 lb. Arguably, it’s the best tension range for at-home machines providing you with enough options to learn what works the best for you.
You also get several strings tools with it, as well. It comes with a pathfinder awl, straight awl, hex wrench set, and straight pliers. The tool tray and the drawers are all big enough for you to store these and many more tools you think you’d need.
Another thing you should know is that it’s built from aluminum and steel with a base that includes a tool tray and drawers. It feels sturdy and durable thanks to the quality materials used for its construction.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Hands-free operation
- Shows tension in lb and kg
Cons:
- Somewhat heavy
- CUSTOM STRING TENSION: Uses a manual spring tension winder (9-90lb range) and 360-degree turntable
- FIRM HOLD: Universal string clamps and a 6-point Quick Mount System keep rackets securely in place
- DURABLE DESIGN: Features an aluminum base and linear string gripper with rotational string guide
- TOOL SET: Includes pathfinder awl, straight awl, hex wrenches, pliers, and diagonal cutter
- EASY TO USE: Gamma XST string machines are easy to operate and backed by a limited lifetime warranty
RUNNER UP
Gamma X-ES Tennis Stringing Machine
Key features:
- LED display
- Pedal for hands-free stringing
- Electric pull
If you’re looking for an electronic tennis stringing model that’s accurate but easy to use, the Gamma X-ES might be the best for you. It has an electronic puller that limits the restringing as well as the force you apply. This way, it reduces slacking while tightening the tension. Its clamps are diamond-coated and have a self-locking knob that keeps everything in place.
What’s interesting is that the entire tennis stringing machine is made of aluminum so it’s relatively lightweight. This allows you to carry it around with ease. Still, keep in mind that it doesn’t come with a stand, so you’ll have to find a surface to keep it on.
This uses a 6-piece clamp system to hold the frame while allowing full rotation so you can reach everything easily. Its electric constant pull tensioner has a range of 9-90lb. giving you plenty of options to work with.
It comes with some strining tools and the pedal for hands-free operation. The machine also features a LED display that shows pre-stretching, knot control, and tightness for the greatest accuracy.
Pros:
- 6-piece mounting
- Hands-free
- Lightweight
Cons:
- It’s a bit slow
- Electric constant pull tensioner (9 to 90 lb / 4 to 43 kg).
- Foot pedal switch for ‘Hands Free’ operation.
- Strong, light-weight aluminum extrusion construction includes base with built-in tool tray and drawers.
- Includes Tools (Pathfinder Awl, Straight Awl, Hex Wrench Set, Straight Pliers, Razor Knife).
- 5 Year Limited Warranty.
RUNNER UP
Kippermate Tennis Racquet Stringing Machine
Key Features:
- Comes with tools
- 2-point mount
- Instructions included
The Kippermate Tennis Racquet Stringing Machine has a 2-point mounting system with a tension range from 20 to 90 pounds. It’s a drop weight tensioner that’s ideal for beginners as it’s easy to use and gives quite precise results.
Though it’s among the top ones for beginners, you probably will need some time to get used to it. The best thing to do is to read and follow the instructions it comes with. This way you’re sure that you’re learning how to string a racquet properly.
Klippermate is a tabletop stringing machine so you’d need to find a surface to use it on. However, it’s quite lightweight so you won’t have any trouble carrying it around. It’s stable on its own, though you can purchase a machine stand if you like. People even use it on their kitchen tables because it’s easy to store away when not in use.
It comes with a set of strings for you to practice on. The reason why many people opt for it is because it requires no assembly. It’s ready for use the moment it arrives plus you get detailed instructions on how to work with it.You also get fliers, awl, and two floating clamps to help you with the process.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Requires no assembly
Cons:
- It takes a few hours to string a racquet
- The most accurate stringer on the market! Provides same quality of machines costing hundreds more.
- The only one Made in the USA with an Unlimited Lifetime Guarantee and a 30-day money back guarantee.
- No assembly required. Includes complete tool kit along with a free string and grip package.
- The most complete and easy to follow instructions available with any stringer. Free tech support.
- Steel construction provides strength & stability unlike other brands made of fiberglass or aluminum.
Conclusion:
Stringing a racquet at home is always more convenient than taking it to a tennis shop. Professional stores can sometimes take days, which means you’d have to use another racquet during that time. If you want to avoid that, get yourself the best tennis stringing machine you can use at home.
These five are the top tennis stringing machines that market currently has to offer. They are affordable, easy to use, and come with a different set of features for everyone’s needs and preferences.
Consider the kind of tennis racquet you have as well as how often you need to string it. This will help you decide which one of the five best tennis stringing machines is the best choice for you. Of course, you can always come back to our buyer’s guide for more information.Choose one of these stringing machines to use at home with ease and without waiting in line.
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