Bears factory strings arent the best, but they are fine. Still much better than Mathews, Bowtech or Hoyt. As a beginner bow you wont be able to tell the difference between factory strings and top end strings. We would recommend shooting it as it comes and upgrading when they are due for replacement. A set of aftermarket strings will cost you around $200 plus shipping and/or fitting. A cheap set of string will cost $145 plus shipping and/or fitting. Fitting should cost between $30-$60