String comparison
Xcel vs NXT
Babolat Xcel against Wilson NXT: ratings, specs and which one fits your junior.
The short answer
Both are multifilament strings. Xcel leads on spin, control, durability and tension hold. NXT leads on power. They score the same for arm friendliness (5/5).
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 control (7 vs 6 out of 10)
- You want more durability (6 vs 5 out of 10)
- You want more tension hold (7 vs 6 out of 10)
- Best for: young juniors (8+) just starting
- Best for: players with arm sensitivity
- Best for: all-around recreational players
Pick NXT if…
- You want more power (8 vs 7 out of 10)
- Best for: players with arm issues or tennis elbow
- Best for: young juniors needing comfort
- Best for: players with slow to moderate swing speeds
Specs side by side
| Spec | Xcel | NXT |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Multifilament | Multifilament |
| Construction | Polyamide fibers in polyurethane matrix with dual coating | 1,600 fibers with polyurethane resin coating |
| Gauges | 16, 17 | 15L, 16, 17 |
| Stiffness | Low | Low |
| Set price | $18–21 | $18–20 |
| Reel price | $180–220 | $180–220 |
| Arm friendliness | 5/5 · Excellent | 5/5 · Excellent |
| Cost to maintain | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Recommended from | Age 8 | Age 8 |
| Levels | Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced | Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced |
| Play styles | All court, Serve and volley, Touch player | All court, Serve and volley, Touch player |
| Junior tension | 52-56 lbs for juniors. Multifilament is forgiving at various tensions. | 52-56 lbs for juniors. Multifilament is very forgiving. |
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.
NXT in short
Wilson NXT is the most popular multifilament string on the market. The incredible feel and outstanding comfort comes from its construction of 1,600 fibers that create a cushioned response. The polyurethane resin coating seals the delicate fibers and enhances durability while softening the feel. NXT offers a 10% increased sweet spot over traditional synthetic gut and 74% less vibration. Players with slow to moderate swing speeds will benefit from the power of NXT. Tennis elbow sufferers looking for a softer, more comfortable string should give NXT a try.
Xcel vs NXT: quick answers
Which has more spin, Xcel or NXT?
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 NXT 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 NXT about $18–20, 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 (NXT).