Objective To evaluate arthroscopic reconstruction of a torn anterior cruciate ligament with either a central-third bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft or a two-strand semitendinosus-gracilis autograft and compare the results of clinical testing, satisfaction and functional status. Methods A retrospective study was done on 49 cases undergoing reconstruction with an ipsilateral central-third bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft and 54 treated with an ipsilateral two-strand semitendinosus-gracilis autograft. Patients were followed up for an average of 31.6 months (24-48 months). At the time of final follow-up, patients in each group were evaluated by Lysholm knee score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) rating scale and KT-1000 arthrometer for ACL ligament stability. Results No statistical difference was found between the groups in regard of the Lysholm knee score, overall IKDC score or KT-1000 arthrometrical measurements that stand for patient satisfaction, knee function and objective stability, respectively. The patellar tendon procedure group had a significantly higher knee pain rate than the hamstring group (37% versus 11%). Conclusions The bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft and the two-strand semitendinosus-gracilis autograft can attain comparable results for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in regard to patient satisfaction, knee stability and knee function in the medium-term follow-up. However, reconstruction of anatomic attachment sites, firm initial fixation and a structured postoperative rehabilitation program may have more influence on clinical outcomes and knee stability.