How much different will a 16 gauge multifilament play from a 17 gauge?

[TheStrenuousLife]

I currently play with 17 gauge velocity in the natural color. He is trading me a yellow for a natural one, and his string is 16 gauge.

Will there be a dramatic difference in how the string plays? I have never played with anything less than 17 gauge before

 

[Steve Huff]

With most multifilaments I've tried, the 17g felt tighter at 1st, but then loosened up faster. I don't know if it's due to less friction when stringing the crosses, but it probably is. It's really not a problem though as the looser feeling seems to let the ball sink in more, so the spin doesn't seem affected much.

 

[Chairman3]

Short answer...no
Maybe slightly less powerful but also you'll gain a small amount of control and durability

 

[Deleted member 775108]

Short answer...no
Maybe slightly less powerful but also you'll gain a small amount of control and durability

Drop 2 lbs tension to get most of what you might theoretically "lose" via power/spin by gauging up and still retain durability. Even otherwise the difference is not going to be that much.