Prince, Gamma & Technifibre Stringing Machines

Whether you're buying a stringing machine for personal or professional use, it is a sizable investment, so you should check out your options. Below are three solid machines, from three great brands, at three price points.

And although these are not cheap, David Bone at Tennis Magazine, lays out the return on that investment very well.

"For anyone who believes that buying a stringing machine is too expensive a proposition, consider this: If you string two racquets per month at a savings of $20 each (a conservative estimate), that's $480 a year. It's an investment serious players can't afford to miss...."

Gamma 5003
This is a manual machine, meaning it uses a hand crank. So it doesn't need electricity. This not only saves energy and money, it also means you don't have to be near an outlet to use it. If speed is a priority, get the two-point option (there's also a 6-point option). At around $900, this is a solid value. Check it out here.

Prince Neos 1000
This is a workhorse stringing machine. Like the Gamma, it's a manual machine, so you have to pull the tension yourself. Unlike the Gamma, it has a four-point mounting system that allows you to secure the frame with two pulls of the lever. An interesting and unique feature - the string clamps attach to the machine on movable glide bars, making them slightly faster. A great machine that runs about $1100 and has been used by pro stringers for many years. Check it out here.

Tecnifibre TF-7000
This is one of the big daddies of the stringing world, and runs $5,000+. But, it will definitely fill the bill for any stringer. It has very sophisticated stringing technology, an adjustable stand, and an optional cabinet for supplies. Its all electric - its all about pushing buttons not twisting and pulling. But check this out, it has a knot-tensioning function. Ever notice that when you tie a knot at the end of a piece of string, there's a section at the very end that doesn't get tension? Well, this puppy has a button that puts extra tension on the last string to compensate for the knot for a more consistent string job. Check it out here.