If you’re a badminton player looking to level up your game, your string choice is just as critical as your racket. Li-Ning has quickly become the go-to alternative for pros and club players alike, offering technology that often outlasts mainstream competitors.
But with so many series—N, No, and NS—how do you choose? This guide breaks down every Li-Ning string series to help you find your perfect match.
1. The "No." Series: The Professional Standard
The "No." series is Li-Ning’s flagship lineup, famously used by the Chinese National Team. These strings are categorized by their primary performance benefit: Power, Control, or Durability.
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Li-Ning No. 1 (Repulsion Power): The most popular string in the entire range. At a thin 0.65mm gauge, it is built for explosive repulsion and a sharp hitting sound. Many players prefer it over the Yonex BG66 Ultimax for its superior tension retention.
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Li-Ning No. 5 (Balanced Play): A 0.69mm gauge string that offers a "harder" feel than the No. 7, providing a perfect middle ground for all-around players.
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Li-Ning No. 7 (Maximum Durability): The tank of the group. At 0.70mm, it’s designed to withstand heavy hitters and miss-hits, making it ideal for beginners and long training sessions.
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The "Boost" Variants: Look for the No. 1 Boost and No. 7 Boost if you want extra stability. These use 3D Knit technology to enhance durability without sacrificing that signature repulsion.
2. The "N" Series: The High-Tech Innovators
The N Series is where Li-Ning pushes the boundaries of material science. These are often newer models targeting specific "feels" on court.
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Li-Ning N58 (The Speed King): An ultra-thin 0.58mm string. It offers incredible repulsion and feedback, though its thinness means it trades off some durability.
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Li-Ning N65 (The Rebounder): A popular 0.65mm string that rivals the Yonex BG80. It provides a crisp, "rebound" feel that technical players love for net shots.
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Li-Ning N68 & Li-Ning N69: These strings (0.68mm and 0.69mm respectively) focus on high-elasticity and tension hold, providing a stable surface for aggressive smashers.
3. The "NS" Series: Value and Reliability
The NS series (NS30, NS50, NS70, NS95) is a reliable choice for club players who want performance without the premium price tag.
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Li-Ning NS95: Often cited as the most premium in this series, it provides excellent control and is a great match for head-heavy rackets.
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Li-Ning NS30: A "hidden gem" that many players find similar to the legendary BG80 in terms of impact feel, but at a more economical price point.
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Li-Ning NS50: A balanced durability string that is a staple for consistent, everyday play.
4. Other Notable Series: AP and Accupower
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Accupower (AP Series): Strings like the AP70 are designed for consistent tension and are often used as "workhorse" strings in professional stringing shops.
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AP101N: Known for having a higher repulsion feel than many standard durability strings