The Nuances Of String Patterns
Clearly Explained
The Nuances Of String Patterns Clearly Explained
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When evaluating tennis racquets, one of the attributes you’ll likely come across is string patterns, such as 16×19 or 18×20, which refers to the number of main (vertical) and cross strings a racquet contains.
Like a racquet’s weight and balance or head size and length, string patterns influence performance, so exploring why they matter and what you can expect from the available options is a valuable exercise.
In this guide, I’ll dive deep into the nuances, including their purpose, how they impact performance, and the different types available to you. I’ll also compare popular string patterns and provide recommendations so you can decide what’s best for your needs.
What is a String Pattern?
A string pattern refers to the number of main (vertical), and cross strings a racquet contains, one of several attributes manufacturers use to modify the performance characteristics of a specific model.
Helpful Tip
It’s worth noting that the phrase ‘string patterns’ can also refer to the instructions for stringing a racquet, including where to start stringing, where to tie off, and which holes to skip.
Purpose
String patterns allow racquet manufacturers to adjust the playing characteristics of a frame, similar to how modifying the weight, head size, or stiffness of a racquet influences performance.
Adjusting a racquet’s pattern can change its power, spin, feel, and the ball’s launch angle as it leaves the racquet, with the degree of shift directly related to the number of strings added or subtracted.
How to Read
You’ll find string patterns for racquets expressed as:
[Main Strings] x [Cross Strings], e.g., 16×19
Therefore, a 16×19 refers to a racquet with 16 main strings (those running vertically) and 19 cross or horizontal strings.
Types of Available Patterns
The most common are:
- 16×18
- 16×19
- 16×20
- 18×20
However, if you dig deep enough, you’ll find plenty of other unique setups. Here’s a complete list of those offered by top brands with current model racquets available for sale.
Please note that others exist. These are the patterns you’ll find currently in production across top manufacturers.
| String Pattern | Babolat | Wilson | Head | Yonex | Prince | Tecnifibre | Dunlop | Volkl | ProKennex | Solinco |
| 14×21 | x | |||||||||
| 16×15 | x | |||||||||
| 16×17 | x | x | x | |||||||
| 16×18 | x | x | x | x | x | |||||
| 16×19 | x | x | x | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
| 18×16 | x | |||||||||
| 16×20 | x | x | x | x | x | |||||
| 18×18 | x | |||||||||
| 18×19 | x | x | x | x | ||||||
| 18×20 | x | x | x | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
It’s worth noting that not all patterns are created equal. For example, two racquets may organize a 16×19 differently by playing with the spacing between strings. Moreover, a 16×19 in a 98 in² (632 cm²) racquet head won’t perform the same as a racquet with a 16×19 using a 110 in² head size.
Despite those nuances, we can still give players a general sense of what to expect when a racquet adds or subtracts strings.
Open vs. Closed
Players often refer to racquet string patterns as open or closed. An open pattern features fewer strings placed further apart, while a closed pattern incorporates more strings, resulting in a denser pattern with strings organized closer together.
I define an open as one that features 35 or fewer total main and cross strings, while a closed design uses 36 or more. I’ve included all currently available setups below with their classification.
| Pattern | Type | Mains | Crosses | Total Strings |
| 14×21 | Open | 14 | 21 | 35 |
| 16×15 | Open | 16 | 15 | 31 |
| 16×17 | Open | 16 | 17 | 33 |
| 16×18 | Open | 16 | 18 | 34 |
| 16×19 | Open | 16 | 19 | 35 |
| 18×16 | Open | 18 | 16 | 34 |
| 16×20 | Closed | 16 | 20 | 36 |
| 18×18 | Closed | 18 | 18 | 36 |
| 18×19 | Closed | 18 | 19 | 37 |
| 18×20 | Closed | 18 | 20 | 38 |
One isn’t better or worse than the other, but their use does impact a racquet’s performance. Here’s what you can expect from each type.
| Open Patterns | Closed Patterns |
| Enhanced spin | Enhanced precision |
| More power | More control |
| A softer, more forgiving feel | A firmer, less forgiving feel |
| Higher shot trajectory (more arc on shots) | Lower shot trajectory (flatter shots) |
| Lower string durability | Greater string durability |
| Lighter strung weight | Heavier strung weight |
These attributes are further enhanced as a pattern becomes more open or closed. For example, a 16×15 will offer better spin potential than a 16×19, assuming the head size is the same.
Of course, there are diminishing returns. A super open 10×12 wouldn’t be effective, as the response would be erratic and uncontrollable. Meanwhile, a dense 24×26 would have a board-like feel and lack control with minimal grip.
That’s why a handful of string patterns for racquets are more common than others. Through testing, companies have slowly figured out what works best, and the 16×19 and 18×20 reign supreme.
Patterns & Performance
Now that we’ve established the difference between open and closed and that string patterns influence racquet performance, it begs the question. Which setups deliver optimal spin, power, control, comfort, and string durability without overly sacrificing performance in other areas?
Spin: 16×19
To maximize spin, the 16×19 with a racquet head size between 98 and 100 in² (632 and 645 cm²) delivers the best all-around performance. As we’ve covered, more open patterns exist than the 16×19, but they lack a consistent response and fall flat in other areas.
If you buy a racquet that delivers excellent spin but plays erratic and feels overpowered, you won’t perform your best, and you’ll likely be disappointed in your decision. If you want to push the spin envelope, I recommend maintaining a 16×19 and increasing the head size. Doing so will open up the space between strings and enhance spin further without detracting from the racquet’s overall performance.
The Babolat Pure Aero perfectly exemplifies the 16×19, featuring a head size of 100 in² (645 cm²).
It’s worth noting that players primarily generate spin through sufficient racquet head speed, so you’ll be better off focusing on your strength and technique to maximize spin. Furthermore, the string you choose, the gauge, and the tension you string your racquet will also influence spin and are worth considering if you’re trying to optimize it.
Power: 16×19
Similar to spin, if you’re looking to enhance power, opting for an open 16×19 is ideal. However, in this case, you’ll want to ensure your head size is at least 100 in² (645 cm²) so you end up with more of a trampoline effect that results in a livelier, more robust response.
If you’d like to increase power further, here are a few additional ideas worth considering above and beyond your string pattern.
- Improve your strength and technique
- Increase your racquet’s head size
- Try a more powerful string like a natural gut or a multifilament
- Lower the tension you string your racquet
Typically, players want more power while maintaining reliable performance in other areas, which you can accomplish by considering these factors in addition to racquet’s pattern.
One of my favorite racquets for delivering power in a 16×19 with a 100 in² (645 cm²) is the Babolat Pure Drive.
Control: 18×20
Control is one of the most sought-after attributes for players, and the 18×20 is ideally suited for the task. More strings give you a more consistent response, a firmer feel, and a lower shot trajectory. Together, these characteristics result in better control and precision.
The 18×20 works well for players who hit flatter or want to flatten out their shots. To be clear, you can still generate plenty of spin with this setup, but it won’t grip the ball and provide that loopier arch that players who hit with lots of spin desire. Instead, you’ll end up with flatter, more penetrating shots, which is ideal for some players.
The Wilson Blade 98 18×20 is an excellent example of an exceptional control-oriented racquet in this class, with a head size of 98 in² (632 cm²).
If your objective is more control, you might also consider these factors
- A smaller racquet head size
- A more flexible racquet frame
- The use of polyester strings
- The tension you string your racquet
Control is a learned skill, so while these ideas are practical to consider, you’ll get the best results through practice and technique.
Comfort: 16×19
Arm injuries are some of the most common tennis players face, which has led many players to seek more forgiving racquets and strings. Your string pattern is also worth considering as part of that search for comfort.
All else equal, an open pattern will provide players with a more forgiving feel, while a denser pattern will have a firmer feel, resulting in less comfort. For that reason, a 16×19 is ideal for players seeking comfort. It’s open enough to soften the response but not so much that it degrades performance in other areas.
A standout in this category of racquets is the Wilson Clash 100, which features a low stiffness rating paired with a 16×19 and a head size of 100 in² (645 cm²).
Although opting for a more open pattern will offer some mild improvements in comfort, here are some additional ideas to consider:
- A lower racquet stiffness rating
- A softer, more forgiving string
- A reduction in the tension of your strings
- Restringing your racquet more often
- Adding a replacement grip with more cushion
Ultimately, your best path to more comfort involves experimenting with various factors that help reduce shock and vibration to your arm.
String Durability: 18×20
If you’re a chronic string breaker, opting for a tighter 18×20 can help extend your strings’ life. That’s because denser patterns result in less string movement, reducing the sawing effect that leads to breakage.
However, if your only goal is to extend the life of your strings, I wouldn’t recommend changing your string pattern for that sole purpose because there will be additional side effects that likely aren’t ideal for you.
Instead, I’d recommend taking these approaches:
- Try a lower gauge, i.e., thicker string
- Consider a more durable string
- Test hybrid stringing
- Experiment with string savers
Of course, if the other changes in performance offered by a denser pattern appeal to you and you’re also looking for improved string durability, it could be a positive change.
16×19 & 18×20 Are Highly Popular
As you might have noticed, all the string patterns I recommended in this section are 16×19 or 18×20. These are the most popular for good reason and the only two used by all racquet manufacturers.
That’s not to say other setups can’t work well for some players, but nearly all players can achieve their desired performance with these two while considering other racquet attributes and their strings.
Popular Patterns
The following are the most common and offered by the broadest range of racquet manufacturers.
16×18
Wilson, Yonex, Prince, Dunlop, and Volkl all offer racquets with a 16×18, which they commonly pair with larger head sizes and lighter frames that are ideal for beginners.
This open strng pattern makes it easier for new players to hit with more power and depth of shot while making it easier to generate topspin. Since these racquets tend to be stiffer, the 16×18 also helps to soften the racquet’s response, helping to improve comfort.
16×19: Most Popular
The 16×19 is the most popular, with all racquet manufacturers using it extensively. It’s highly versatile and lends itself well to the modern game, where players are hitting aggressively with lots of topspin to maintain control and clearance above the net.
From beginners and recreational play up to the pro tour, you’ll find a wide range of players taking advantage of this string pattern, which is a great place to start if you’re unsure what’s best for your needs.
16×20
Used by Babolat, Wilson, Head, Yonex, and ProKennex, the 16×20 aims to provide more control and precision primarily for intermediate to advanced players without sacrificing too much spin.
Adding one more cross string compared to the 16×19 delivers a little extra density in the string bed for a subtle impact on performance, which can be an excellent fine-tuning mechanism.
18×20
Strong intermediate and advanced players seeking maximum control and precision will likely find the 18×20 appealing.
The higher density of strings increases string bed stiffness, resulting in a tighter, more consistent response, a firmer connected feel, and a lower shot trajectory that’s flatter and penetrating.
Players can still hit with plenty of topspin using an 18×20, but it’s less pronounced, so many advanced players still opt for a more open pattern for more bite and topspin.
Comparing Patterns
String patterns are one of the many attributes to consider when purchasing a new racquet, so it pays to become familiar with their differences to make the best decision for your needs.
16×19 vs. 18×20
The 16×19 and 18×20 are the two most popular patterns, which deliver distinct performance characteristics. Here’s a look at the differences you can expect from one option compared to the other.
| 16×19 | 18×20 |
| Enhanced spin | Enhanced precision |
| More power | More control |
| A softer, more forgiving feel | A firmer, less forgiving feel |
| Higher shot trajectory (more arc on shots) | Lower shot trajectory (flatter shots) |
| Lower string durability | Greater string durability |
| Lighter strung weight | Heavier strung weight |
The 16×19 is an open pattern with more spacing between the strings. As a result, it helps enhance topspin and power while delivering a more forgiving feel and a higher shot trajectory for added depth of shot.
On the other hand, the 18×20 is a denser closed pattern with less spacing between the strings, which results in a tighter, more consistent response that aids control and precision. It also delivers a firmer feel and lower shot trajectory that works well for players who hit flat or want to reduce the arc on their groundstrokes.
One is not better than the other, but the 16×19 is more approachable and user-friendly, making it an ideal option for beginners and intermediate players but still perfectly well-suited for advanced players, including many athletes on the pro tour.
Due to its performance characteristics, the 18×20 usually makes its way into lower-powered racquets with smaller head sizes, which are attributes that cater primarily to advanced players.
Ultimately, what’s best for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re still struggling to decide, try demoing a racquet model that offers both string patterns, such as the Wilson Blade 98 or the Babolat Pure Strike. Doing so will help you gain first-hand experience and feel the difference, which is invaluable.
As you compare the 16×19 and 18×20, it’s also worth considering the size of the racquet head. A 100 in² (645 cm²) racquet with a 16×19 will be more open, i.e., have more space between the strings, than a 98 in² (632 cm²) racquet with the same pattern.
For that reason, players looking for more control can often move from 100 in² (645 cm²) to 98 (632 cm²) while maintaining a 16×19 and still get the desired results. As often is the case, it’s important to consider all factors when making a switch or deciding on one pattern vs. another.
16×19 vs. 16×20
Although the 16×20 only has one more cross string than the 16×19, I often get questions about their differences and what to expect. The truth is it’s relatively nuanced, but the same principles we’ve discussed throughout this guide when comparing open vs. closed patterns still apply.
Manufacturers often use the 16×20 to increase the stringbed’s density without sacrificing too much spin. In other words, they want a slightly more controlled response with less power while maintaining excellent spin – a delicate balance.
The Babolat Pure Aero 98 is an excellent example. The standard Pure Aero, which has a 100 in² (645 cm²) head, features an open 16×19, which makes sense as its primary selling point is spin.
The Pure Aero 98, on the other hand, has a 98 in² (632 cm²) head size and is intended to provide more control and precision, but Babolat still wants the racquet to deliver above-average spin. Rather than opt for a tighter 18×20, they bump up to the 16×20. Combined with the smaller head size, they end up with more control while maintaining bite.
Patterns The Pros Use
Tennis racquets are highly individualized, so what works for one player doesn’t always transfer well to another. That’s especially true regarding the pros, but knowing what they use is still compelling.
At the very least, if you’re familiar with their game, you can glean the style of play that’s ideally suited for their pattern, as they’ve most certainly experimented with different setups over the years.
ATP
On the men’s tour, there’s more variety in what players are using. Of the players I’ve covered below, here’s how usage breaks down, with the 16×19 pattern being the most popular.
| Pattern | Count | Percent |
| 16×19 | 11 | 38% |
| 18×20 | 9 | 31% |
| 16×20 | 6 | 21% |
| 18×19 | 2 | 7% |
| 18×17 | 1 | 3% |
| Total | 29 | 100% |
The following is a selection of top ATP players.
| ATP Player | String Pattern |
| Alex de Minaur | 16×19 |
| Alexander Zverev | 18×20 |
| Andrey Rublev | 18×20 |
| Andy Murray | 16×19 |
| Ben Shelton | 18×20 |
| Cameron Norrie | 16×20 |
| Carlos Alcaraz | 16×20 |
| Casper Ruud | 16×19 |
| Dan Evans | 18×20 |
| Daniil Medvedev | 18×19 |
| Denis Shapovalov | 16×20 |
| Dominc Thiem | 16×19 |
| Felix Auger-Aliassime | 16×20 |
| Frances Tiafoe | 16×19 |
| Gael Monfils | 16×19 |
| Grigor Dimitrov | 18×17 |
| Holger Rune | 16×20 |
| Jack Draper | 16×19 |
| Jannik Sinner | 16×19 |
| Jiri Vesely | 18×20 |
| Nick Kyrgios | 16×19 |
| Nikoloz Basilashvili | 18×20 |
| Novak Djokovic | 18×19 |
| Pablo Carreno Busta | 18×20 |
| Rafael Nadal | 16×19 |
| Roger Federer | 16×19 |
| Stan Wawrinka | 16×20 |
| Stefanos Tsitsipas | 18×20 |
| Taylor Fritz | 18×20 |
WTA
On the women’s tour, the 16×19 dominates the field. Here’s how usage breaks down among the ladies.
| Pattern | Count | Percent |
| 16×19 | 25 | 76% |
| 18×20 | 3 | 9% |
| 16×20 | 2 | 6% |
| 18×19 | 2 | 6% |
| 16×18 | 1 | 3% |
| Total | 33 | 100% |
The following is a selection of top WTA players.
| WTA Player | String Pattern |
| Ajla Tomljanovic | 16×19 |
| Alycia Parks | 16×19 |
| Angelique Kerber | 16×19 |
| Ashleigh Barty | 16×19 |
| Belinda Bencic | 16×19 |
| Bianca Andreescu | 16×19 |
| Camila Giorgi | 16×19 |
| Caroline Wozniacki | 16×19 |
| Coco Gauff | 18×20 |
| Danielle Collins | 16×19 |
| Donna Vekic | 16×19 |
| Elena Rybakina | 16×19 |
| Elina Svitolina | 16×19 |
| Emma Raducanu | 16×20 |
| Garbine Muguruza | 16×19 |
| Iga Swiatek | 16×19 |
| Jelena Ostapenko | 18×20 |
| Jessica Pegula | 16×19 |
| Karolina Pliskova | 16×19 |
| Leylah Fernandez | 16×19 |
| Madison Keys | 18×20 |
| Maria Sakkari | 16×19 |
| Maria Sharapova | 16×19 |
| Marketa Vondrousova | 16×19 |
| Naomi Osaka | 16×19 |
| Ons Jabeur | 16×19 |
| Paula Badosa | 16×20 |
| Serena Williams | 18×19 |
| Simona Halep | 16×18 |
| Sloane Stephens | 16×19 |
| Sofia Kenin | 16×19 |
| Venus Williams | 18×19 |
| Victoria Azarenka | 16×19 |
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