String comparison
Xcel vs TGV
Babolat Xcel against Tecnifibre TGV: ratings, specs and which one fits your junior.
The short answer
Both are multifilament strings. Xcel leads on spin and durability. TGV leads on comfort and tension hold. They score the same for arm friendliness (5/5). TGV costs less per set.
Ratings
Power
Spin
Control
Comfort
Durability
Tension hold
Ratings are on a 1–10 scale. The higher score is in bold when they differ.
Pick Xcel if…
- You want more spin (6 vs 5 out of 10)
- You want more durability (6 vs 5 out of 10)
- Best for: young juniors (8+) just starting
- Best for: players with arm sensitivity
- Best for: those wanting gut-like feel without gut price
Pick TGV if…
- You want more comfort (10 vs 9 out of 10)
- You want more tension hold (8 vs 7 out of 10)
- You want to spend less (from $12 vs $18 a set)
- Best for: young juniors needing maximum comfort
- Best for: players with arm issues (tennis elbow, wrist, shoulder)
- Best for: those seeking control with comfort
Specs side by side
| Spec | Xcel | TGV |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Multifilament | Multifilament |
| Construction | Polyamide fibers in polyurethane matrix with dual coating | Elastyl Polyurethane bundles with 45% PU400 and SPL coating |
| Gauges | 16, 17 | 16, 17 |
| Stiffness | Low | Low |
| Set price | $18–21 | $12–16 |
| Reel price | $180–220 | $130–160 |
| Arm friendliness | 5/5 · Excellent | 5/5 · Excellent |
| Cost to maintain | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Recommended from | Age 8 | Age 8 |
| Levels | Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced | Beginner, Intermediate |
| Play styles | All court, Serve and volley, Touch player | All court, Touch player, Beginner |
| Junior tension | 52-56 lbs for juniors. Multifilament is forgiving at various tensions. | 52-56 lbs for juniors. |
Xcel in short
Babolat Xcel is described as the closest to natural gut in terms of feel and comfort. Polyamide fibers twisted into a polyurethane matrix deliver exceptional elasticity and arm-friendly playability. The dual coating of polyurethane followed by polyamide provides a friction barrier, resisting string burning and notching. Testers found it surprisingly controlled for a soft multifilament - one of the lowest powered multis available, making it ideal for players who want comfort without excessive power. A gift to the tendons and joints of tennis players.
TGV in short
Tecnifibre TGV is described as the softest string on the market. Unlike NRG2 which focuses on power, TGV prioritizes control and comfort. The composite micro fiber bundles give dynamic properties while 45% Polyurethane 400 can stretch up to 400% of its length, providing comfort by reducing shock and vibration. Coated with SPL to reduce notching and wear. Excellent tension hold over time. Recommended for young players seeking quality multifilament with maximum control and comfort, and for players prone to forearm tendinitis.
Xcel vs TGV: quick answers
Which has more spin, Xcel or TGV?
Babolat Xcel, with a spin rating of 6/10 against 5/10.
Which is more arm-friendly for a junior?
They score the same, 5/5. Xcel is recommended from age 8 and TGV from age 8.
Which lasts longer?
Babolat Xcel rates 6/10 for durability against 5/10.
Which is cheaper?
Xcel costs about $18–21 a set and TGV about $12–16, at typical retail.
The short answer and the "pick if" lists are generated from our ratings and junior data only. Data verified 2025-01 (Xcel) and 2025-01 (TGV).