Elixir Polywebs (the original heavier coating) definitely do squeak less than either non-coated strings or more lightly coated strings (like Elixir Nanowebs). I play several styles of music and squeaking is really only an issue for swing with its rapid barre chord changes. If I have the money, I use the Polywebs on my preferred guitar for swing, a Santa Cruz OM-PW. If I'm low on string funds I just live with squeaks. The rest of my guitars get whatever's on sale and better be glad for what they get.