A tennis racket restring usually costs $25 to $50 when you pay a shop for both the strings and installation. The final price depends on the string you choose, the shop’s labor fee, and whether your racket needs a hybrid setup. Premium natural gut can push the total above $70.
If you’re comparing quotes, ask whether the price includes the string, labor, and any extras such as a new grip or rush service. A low advertised price may cover labor only, while a package deal may include an inexpensive synthetic string.
Here’s how tennis racket stringing costs break down, what affects the bill, and which strings are worth considering for different players.
Typical Tennis Racket Stringing Costs
Most adult rackets use a set of string that costs about $5 to $50 or more at retail. Shops commonly charge another $15 to $30 for installation. Prices vary by location and shop, so treat these ranges as a guide rather than a fixed rate.
| String type | Typical string price | Estimated total with labor | Good fit for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synthetic gut | $5–$10 | $20–$40 | Beginners and budget-conscious players |
| Multifilament | $15–$25 | $30–$55 | Comfort and arm-friendly feel |
| Polyester | $10–$20 | $25–$50 | Frequent players who hit with spin |
| Natural gut | $35–$50+ | $50–$80+ | Players seeking comfort, feel, and tension maintenance |
| Hybrid setup | $10–$40+ for strings | $30–$70+ | Players combining two string types |
These totals assume a typical labor charge. Some clubs and sporting-goods stores charge less, while specialist racquet shops or same-day services may cost more. If you bring your own string, ask about the labor-only rate; it may be lower, but not always.
What Changes the Price?
String choice
String is usually the biggest variable. Synthetic gut is affordable and works well for many recreational players. Multifilament and natural gut cost more, but they tend to feel softer. Polyester is popular with players who take big cuts at the ball, though it can lose its lively feel before it breaks.
Labor and service fees
Labor often runs around $15 to $30 per racket. Ask whether the quote includes mounting, stringing, and basic knotting, and whether there’s an extra charge for rush work. Shops may also charge more for unusual patterns or a racket that needs grommet repairs.
Hybrid strings and extras
A hybrid uses one string type in the mains and another in the crosses. For example, a player might use polyester mains for control and multifilament crosses for a softer response. Because two string packs may be involved, hybrids can cost more than a single-string setup. A replacement grip, overgrip, or damaged grommet can add to the bill too.
Five Strings to Consider
These are common options across different budgets and playing styles. Prices below are approximate set prices and can vary by retailer, gauge, and sale.
| String | Approximate set cost | Why consider it | Possible drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prince Synthetic Gut | $5–$8 | Affordable, straightforward, and a sensible first choice for newer players | Less comfort and bite than many premium strings |
| Head Velocity MLT | $12–$18 | Multifilament feel with a comparatively controlled response for its category | May not last long for players who break strings often |
| Wilson NXT | $18–$25 | Comfortable multifilament option, especially for players who dislike a harsh feel | Costs more than basic synthetic gut and can fray |
| Solinco Hyper-G | $12–$18 | Shaped polyester aimed at spin and control for fast, full swings | Can feel firm; not the best default choice for a sore arm |
| Babolat VS Touch natural gut | $40–$50+ | Premium comfort, lively response, and strong tension maintenance | High upfront price and less practical in wet conditions |
These strings aren’t universal upgrades. A player who hits gently may get better value from synthetic gut or multifilament than from polyester. If you’re considering poly, discuss tension and comfort with your stringer, especially if you have a history of elbow or wrist pain. A softer hybrid can be a middle ground.
How Often Should You Restring?
A useful starting point is to restring as many times per year as you play each week. Someone playing twice a week might try restringing about twice a year, then adjust based on feel and wear. This is only a rough rule: frequent hitters may need restringing much sooner, while occasional players may go longer.
You don’t have to wait for a string to snap. If the bed feels unusually loose, dead, or inconsistent, or if the strings have deep notches, it may be time for a fresh job. Polyester can lose responsiveness even when it hasn’t broken, so regular players should pay attention to feel, not just string condition.
To keep costs down, ask about a value synthetic-gut package, buy string during a sale, or learn whether your shop offers a discount for multiple rackets. Buying reels can lower the per-job string cost if you use the same string regularly, but you’ll still need to budget for labor and a stringing machine if you do the work yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to restring a tennis racket?
Many players pay about $25 to $50 for string and labor together. Basic synthetic gut may come in below that range, while natural gut or a premium hybrid can cost $70 or more.
Is labor included in the price of tennis strings?
Not always. Some shops advertise a complete restring package, while others list the string price separately from labor. Confirm the total before leaving your racket.
Is polyester string cheaper than multifilament?
Often, polyester is less expensive than premium multifilament, but prices overlap. Choose based on feel and playing style, not price alone; polyester can be uncomfortable for some players.
Can I bring my own strings to a shop?
Many shops allow it, but some charge a different labor rate or don’t accept outside strings. Call ahead and check that you have enough string for your racket and chosen pattern.
Final Thoughts
For most players, budgeting $25 to $50 per restring is a useful starting point. The best value depends on how often you play and what you need from the string bed: affordable all-around performance, extra comfort, or more control for aggressive swings. Ask for an itemized quote, choose a string that suits your game, and track how the racket feels after each restring.
