Your Go To Guide For Best Badminton Racket

Badminton is considered to be a fun and trendy sport nowadays around the world. Well, it can be a lot of different things other than fun and an exciting racket sport.

Due to the emergence of some star players in recent times, there is a surging in popularity of this sport. Some people play badminton as a hobby, whereas some play on a competitive level.

Like we all know, one of the most significant aspects of this game is having a racket that suits your needs.

It is crucial to have the right racquet for you to intensify the skills in badminton. It can enhance your game technique, smashes, and other defensive shots for smooth play.

As there are many different levels of players in badminton, so accordingly, their choices of rackets cannot be the same. One may buy it to start improving their beginner skills, whereas others may be searching for the perfect one to play in a competition.

Whatever may be the case, there are lots of new rackets with new brands coming into the market that can meet any player’s requirements.

So, are you looking for the best badminton racket? If you are, then this article will assist you in choosing the racket of your preferences or need.

Let’s jump to the top 10 most reputed rackets that I have found online that stood the test of time:

#1 Voltric Z Force 2:

Voltric Z Force 2, a revolutionary badminton racket of Yonex brand, made in Japan.

It is a Voltric series badminton racket that provides excellent power to the players. In badminton, a racquet with the right grip, string tension, and weight can provide extra flexibility and control. And this racket offers all of it.

The shaft of this racket is the thinnest of all Voltric series. Because of the more refined tri-voltage technology, you can expect to get more smashing power while playing.

Voltric Z Force 2 is available in both 3U (ave.88g) and 4U (ave.83g) weight options. The frame of the racket is made of high module graphite, Ex-HMG material with nanometric technology.

With 3U weight configuration you can put string tension up to 28lbs and with 4U weight option, you can bump-up to 30 lbs string tension.

According to Yonex, Voltric Z Force 2 provides 6.2 km/h more end shuttle speed as compared to prior Voltric series. With Z force2, you will get 10km/hr additional initial speed.

Though this racket is a bit heavy, yet it does not mean that it is going to be slow. Smashing with incredible power is what you will experience most of the time.

PROS

• Due to its ultra-fast swings, the shots go fast, effortless, and smooth.

• It is known for two things- speed and power. Not every racket combines these two qualities.

• It has a great balance as compared to the other rackets in the list.

• The weight provides momentum to the game and keeps you stay on your feet.

CONS

• At high speed, control may be tricky.

#2 Arcsaber 11:

A highly popular racquet, basically used by many professional and amateur players. It was launched in the year 2013.

This badminton racquet is specially designed for the players who want fast racquet reflexes.

The top of its frame has been fortified with a lightweight and flexible new titanium alloy, named sonic metal, which helps in providing an extreme repulsion power as well as a pleasing sound when the shuttlecock hits the racquet.

The shaft of the racket is made of a unique material called Ultra PEF ( Poly Ethylene Fibre), which gives maximum shock absorption capacity to a player for smoother return. Yet, it’s so light that it can float on water.

Arcsaber 11 is available in two weight options, one in 3U (ave.88g) and other in 2U (ave.93g). With 3U weight configurations, you can put string tension up to 19-24 lbs, and with 2U weight configurations, up to 20-25 lbs tension can be done.

PROS

• It provides a good game of high-speed rallies and mid-court shots, which is the nub of badminton today. It helps a player to play the shots from the center of the racquet.

• The frame of this racquet is so flexible that it provides greater control as compared to the other racquets of this genre.

• Good for delivering high-degree of power.

• The racket has been proved to be better than the Arcsaber 10. It is because the distance of the shots is much better with similar power applied to it.

• It is not easily breakable.

CONS

• It looks like Arcsaber 10, which makes it less feasible. It should have looked a bit different so that differentiation could be made.

#3 Yonex Astrox 88D:

The “D” of the Astrox 88D stands for DOMINANT. Especially designed for the dominant backcourt player.

This model is the latest racket in the Yonex Astrox series. It was launched in 2018 with two different versions. One is the “D” being short for dominant, and the other is the S, which is short for skill.

Astrox 88D is more flex in the upper part of the frame that makes it different from 88S. More flex in the upper part of the frame helps in the transfer of the maximum energy from the players’ arm to the shuttlecock.

Its frame material is made of high module graphite, while its shaft material is developed with HM graphite and NAMD ( new dimension graphite) that helps to generate more flex for players.

The shaft is 10mm longer as compared to the other Yonex rackets that help in playing powerful smashes.

With 4U (ave.83g) weight configurations, you can put tension up to 20-28 lbs. Astrox 88D allows the string bed to transfer more energy to the shuttle, ensuring that only the upper half flexes.

PROS

• The racket is very suitable for making powerful smashes.

• One can hit backcourt to backcourt clear more easily and effortlessly with less swing speed of the racquet.

• It is friendly to all levels of players from beginner to professional.

CONS

• A little slow for fast front court doubles play, slower on counter-attacking drives or more wrist involving shots.

#4 Yonex Voltric 80:

Yonex Voltric 80 is one of the best badminton racquets available in the market if you have the budget.

HM Graphite and tungsten frame material with a sound filtration technology and tri-voltage technology make it a go-to racket for any player who wants a sustainable and quality racket for a long time.

Not to forget, the shaft is a combination of Nanopreme and Graphite material.

All of this makes this racket only 82 gm weight, providing better power and control to a player, with a G4 grip involved.

Voltric 80 is developed for powerful smashes. The frame of the racquet is constructed with an improved structure that gives excellent bending of the frame.

To summarize, this racket provides an electrifying combination of fast handling and uncompromised power on every shot you play.

PROS

• Yonex Voltric 80 has the thinnest shaft in the YONEX range of products making it an excellent choice for the players.

• The frame is of the aerodynamic body that gives the players great control over the shots.

• Sound filters fitted in the racquet.

• The heavy-head of this racquet makes it provide more power to the shots you play.

CONS

• It is one of the most expensive racquets in the Yonex brand.

#5 Yonex Duora 77:

It a mid-range badminton racket perfect for intermediate to advance badminton players.

It is a little head heavy balance racquet with medium flexible shaft. HM Graphite is used to mold the shaft and frame of the Yonex Duora 77.

With an overall weight of 88 gms, it falls under 3U weight classification. With this weight, the recommended string tension I would say is 19-26 lbs. This racket comes with a G4 grip option.

Technologies like, isometric head shape, built-in T joint, control support along with scientifically developed Yonex manufacturing process provides better performance of the racquet overall.

Steady racquet head with less vibration on impact provides excellent control to a player

PROS

• One of the best features of Yonex Duora 77 is its speed. The speed of this racquet makes the server respond more quickly and effortlessly.

• The durable materials used in the racket helps in extending the racquet’s lifespan.

• Sound filtration reduce the sound of the shots and helps the players to focus on the game.

• The racquet is always a perfect choice for defensive players.

• Its weight and grip quality help to make quick reactions which, are qualities of an excellent defensive player.

CONS

• Suitable for intermediate and professional players only.

#6 Apacs Feather Weight 55:

It is one of the best rackets of Apacs manufacturer.

In this racket, you will get right away excellent control, slim shaft, and lightweight feel. Its weight is around 58G. Apacs feather wight 55 is especially for those players who prefer to play with a lightweight racket so that they can improve their offensive style of playing.

Aerodynamically designed Hexagon Throat (a flat shape with six straight sides) is used to make the racket swing speed better. The new shape provides better speed and stable head of the racquet.

The material of this racquet is standard Graphite. Also, the grip size is a bit small compared to the rackets made by Yonex.

However, this won’t cause any problem if you want to use it. You may use an over-grip to make it more comfortable for you.

This racket is head-heavy when it comes to its balance, which is why much of the weight can be found on the top portion of it that will help you to deliver much power in your smash shots.

The recommended string tension for this racquet is 28lbs.

PROS

• Because of its lightweight, it may be more graceful, allowing a player to react quickly.

• One of the significant features of this racquet is its durability.

• It is best for the players who emphasize on smashes.

CONS

• It can be too light for some players. Especially, beginners might find it challenging to play with this racquet because of the super responsive feel.

#7 Yonex Voltric 5:

The Yonex Voltric 5 was launched in the year 2011 at all England badminton championship. Voltric series racquets have always been an excellent success for Yonex having several technologies.

Voltric 5 is considered as one of the best rackets because of its power and accuracy.

It utilizes the Tri-Voltage System, which helps in providing both power and control throughout the entire game.

This racquet has shown consistent powerful performance, whether on attack or defense. Balance wise it is a head-heavy racquet with a medium flex shaft.

The maximum recommended tension on this racquet is 24lbs.

PROS

• Since Yonex Voltric 5 is a head-heavy racquet. It provides more power and helps in delivering hard smashes.

• The grip of this racquet is modifiable.

• It helps in increasing your control and speed in the game.

• Its thinner frame provides an aerodynamic advantage to the player.

CONS

• The most significant disadvantage of Voltric 5 has is that it’s not intended for experts.

#8 Yonex Nano Speed 9900:

It is considered as one of the best badminton rackets due to its fastness and lethality.

If you are looking for a super-fast racquet, then Nano Speed 9900 will be the perfect choice for you. We all know that drive shots are one of the best reactions or replies to smashes in badminton.

Nano Speed 9900 is one of the best model for defensive – style players as this racket has shown excellent performance in drives and smashes.

It is a head-light racquet with the latest technology. The weight of this racket is 85-90 gms with G3, G4, and G5 grip sizes. With these characteristics, the racket becomes a more stable, repulsive, and attacking.

PROS

• Excellent speed is the most significant asset that Nano Speed 9900 offers.

• The lightweight of this racquet allows quick and swift reaction that helps in making a smooth swing.

• The racquet can perform with such power as you desire.

• Its maneuverability is one of the most significant features.

CONS

• From the stiffness to the overall design, this racquet is made for the advanced or professional players.

#9 Yonex Nanoray 900:

Yonex Nanoray 900 is one of the best quality badminton racquets in the market. It is a racquet with a heavy head and flexible shaft.

Its more massive head enables more power to make stronger smashes as well as in the backcourt game.

Ability to generate high speed and smooth swing make it the right choice for advanced defensive players. Nanoray 900 was launched in the year 2015 by Yonex with two weight configurations (3U and 2U).

PROS

• It is a head-heavy racket. Its massive head helps in providing more power for stronger smashes.

• Since the racquet is lightweight, it moves easily and very fast.

• Its high speed and smooth swing make it perfect for defensive players.

• Great for doubles.

CONS

• Not recommended for singles.

#10 Yonex Voltric 10 DG:

Voltric 10 DG is believed to be the most durable badminton racquet in history.Dg stands for the durable grade. Voltric 10 DG used the high modulus graphite in the material of the frame. This high-grade material helps in improving the overall strength of the racquet and provides the capacity to sustain higher string tension.

This racquet belongs to the head-heavy series that is designed to deliver fast and powerful smashes without compromising natural swinging and control.The weight of the racquet is around 88 g with G4 grip configuration. Because of the stiff shaft of this racquet, the unprofessional players who have not mastered the skill of the game might find it hard to use it, and this makes the racquet better recommended for the advanced or professional players.

Do you know what is the most stand out thing about this racket?

You can put string tension up to 35lbs (not at all recommended for beginner to intermediate players), but it speaks about the durability of the racket. I would personally suggest you put string tension between 25-28 lbs.

PROS

• This racquet has a substantial feel, and it remains stable throughout the game.

• This racquet is perfect for playing powerful smashes and other attacking shots. Moreover, its heavy-head provides more power whenever the shuttle lands on the net.

• Although this racquet is quite head-heavy, yet you will find it comfortable in making a softer swing.

• It has advanced technologies in its construction, such as tri-voltage system, tri-bumper, built-in T-joint, and a control support cap.

CONS

• Because of the stiffness of the shaft, unprofessional players or beginners will find it difficult to use.

How To Choose A Top Badminton Racket?

Introduction:

No matter what sport you are interested in, if you do not have the equipment in your hand, you can never be able to improve our skills in the game.

When it comes to playing badminton, other than the types of equipment like t-shirts, shoes, and socks, wrist bands, etc., the most significant thing is the racquet that you use, and it has to be a perfect one.

Having the ideal badminton racquet in your hand will help you to play better shot with more accuracy and improve your skills.

Some of the vital point to consider while choosing the right badminton racquet:

The proficiency level:

The first and foremost thing that you should be aware of when you go to purchase a new racquet for yourself is to understand the proficiency level you have.

There are classified models of badminton racquets available in the market that you should refer to, whether you are a professional player, an intermediate, or a beginner.

Hence, you should make sure to choose the racquet for yourself to have the maximal benefits in the game.

Weight:

The weight of the racquet plays an important role. So, you need to choose the perfect one that has a proper mass that is not too light, not too heavy for you to move freely.

Badminton racquets usually come in several weight categories. Some come in 3U (85-89g) while some in 4U (80-84g).

A lighter weight racquet is always our recommendation for beginner players so that they find it easier to move the racquet and then progress to a heavier one to get more power.

The disadvantage of a heavy racquet is that it is much harder to control. So, unless you are skilled, this might be a problem for you.

Professional singles players generally use 3U weighted racquets, whereas doubles players tend to use 4U racquets.

The material:

Another crucial thing that you need to consider while purchasing a racquet is the material that is used in making the shaft of a racquet.

Steel, Graphite, and aluminum are the most important materials used in building a racquet’s shaft.

All of these materials might have their advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, you need to be aware when you go to choose the perfect racquet for yourself.

Balance point:

Apart from the weight and the material, a racquet is categorized by its balancing point.

There are three categories of balance.

a) Head heavy balance.

The head-heavy racquets help in providing more power in the shots and are perfect for the players who mostly play from the backcourt. These racquets are especially suitable for playing long rallies.

b) Head-light racquet.

The head-light racquets, on the other hand, have less weight towards the head area. Hence, it is very easier to control and make a softer swing with the head-light rackets.

These rackets are popular among the doubles players who need to react or respond quickly to every shot they play in the game. It also offers a lot more speed at the net and helps you to kill a game in the frontcourt.

c) Even balance.

As the name suggests, an even balance racket helps in providing a middle ground between a head-heavy racquet and a head-light racquet.

An even balance racquet is suitable for you if you don’t know what kind of playing style you are going to play.

Once you have established your style of playing, then you can transit to a head-heavy or a head-light racquet to improve your overall game.

Hand grip:

The essential factors that affect the grip of the racquet, namely its type and size.

a) Types – The two types of badminton grips – towel and synthetic.

Since towel grips are soft, they are pretty good for soaking sweat. They require to be changed very frequently, whereas synthetic grips are less untidy and pretty smooth. However, at times, these make them less comfortable due to its weak sweat absorption capacity.

b) Size of grips – Badminton racquet grips come in various sizes.

Those who want a tighter feel for generating more power in the shots they play always prefer bigger grips. On the other hand, those who like to play deceptive games always go for smaller grips.

String tension:

It is also essential to consider string tension in a racquet as it can also affect the way a racquet feels.

You can test the tension of racquet by pressing the palm of your hand against the strings so that you can get to see how far it sinks.

A racquet with a higher tension of string always provides better control, whereas the lower tension helps to generate more power and will be durable.

For beginners, 22-23 lbs is a proper tension to start with, whereas for advanced players, the recommended tension is 24-28 lbs. A thin string gives more control but will not be as durable as a thicker string.

Shaft flexibility:

Shaft flexibility is another important factor you should consider while buying a badminton racquet. Beginners generally go for a racquet with a flexible shaft, while the professional players prefer to have one with a stiff shaft as they have better technique and skills.

Stiff shaft is useful for the players with refined technique and powerful swing.

The Medium shaft is suitable for players with a developing technique.

Flexible shafts help in providing more power and better speed for beginners.

Head shape:

Most of the racquets nowadays are found in isometric head shape, i.e., with a wider top half of head than conventional oval-shaped racquets. The isometric head shape of a racquet gives an enlarged sweet spot to the players, whereas the conventional oval-shaped racquets have more real feel and control of the shuttle.

Some Other Great Budget Friendly Rackets Of Badminton

#1 Yonex Muscle Power 29

It is widely regarded as one of the best badminton rackets available worldwide!

• Designed by the popular Japanese sports equipment manufacturing company Yonex, this racquet is sized as 3U – G4.
• The 3U – G4 attributes make this racket an extraordinary choice for intermediate and advanced players.
• Yonex Muscle Power 29 badminton racquet is effective for power hitters who like to play a smash-oriented game, and not a defensive one.
• The frame of this badminton racket is made of aluminum, which justifies the durability and resilience of Muscle Power 29.
• On top of that, the aerodynamically friendly structure of this racket provides for a better swing speed and maneuverability.

As a badminton player myself, I found this racket a little trickier to use at first, but with about 5 – 6 weeks of consistent practice, I started getting familiar with this incredible racket and now have good control of its movements and angle judgment.

Elaborating: 3U weight category means a weight of 85 to 89.9 grams, while G4 means a grip of short length (Length: G1 > G2 > G3 > G4 > G5).

#2 Yonex Nanoray Light 9i

This racket is manufactured with aerodynamic nanotechnology, which allows for stiff flex and lightning-fast shots.

• The size specifications of the Yonex Nanoray Light 9i racket are 5U – G4.
• The 5U weight category means a weight of 75 to 79.9 grams, while G4 means a grip of relatively shorter length.
• With the frame material made of carbon graphite, coupled with its isometric shape and 30 lbs string tension, this racket is best suited for beginner and intermediate players.
• This racket is 73.4 cms in length, 20.5 cms in height, and 0.5 cms in width. Being lightweight makes it one of the best rackets for the players who have just started playing badminton as it has minimal air resistance — which means a greater head speed!
• Also, the enlarged sweet spot provided by this racket is helpful in accurate shot placements.
• Moreover, similar to its frame, the shaft of this racket is made of carbon graphite as well, which accounts for the extreme robustness this racket is known for.

Additionally, with a lightweight racquet such as Nanoray Light 9i, I’ve found myself to be moving around the court easier, with faster forearm and wrist movements. The increased string tension compensates for the power that the lighter-weight frame takes away.

#3 Yonex Carbonex 8000 Plus

The Yonex Carbonex 8000 Plus racket is not only an excellent but also a financially friendly choice!

• This badminton racket has 3U – G4 size specifications, which means its weight is in the range of 85 to 89.9 grams and has a short grip.
• The material used to make this badminton racket’s frame is graphite, while the shaft is made of a blend of graphite and carbon nanotube. This gives Carbonex 8000 Plus proper weight alignment and durability.
• The circularly shaped head, along with a box-shaped frame gives this racquet unique stability and a solid feel when the shuttlecock strikes the racquet’s strings and reflects back.
• When the shuttlecock hits the racket, the elastic Ti resists any deformation and recovers its shape rapidly to propel an accelerated shot.

While testing out this racket, I was delighted by the quick reflexive shots it can deliver. The weight of Carbonex 8000 Plus is evenly balanced; and in my personal opinion, it’s a good consideration if you want to start playing badminton seriously.

I didn’t, however, found this racket suitable for aggressive smash plays. It is better for players with normal defensive playing strategies

#4 Yonex VOLTRIC 0.7D

This brilliant racket with 35lbs string tension is one of the finest rackets for intermediate to advanced level players.

• This badminton racquet also has 3U – G4 size specifications, which means its weight is in the range of 85 to 89.9 grams and has a relatively shorter grip.
• Fabricated with a graphite shaft and frame, it is suitable for every season and has a sturdy structure. The 35 lbs string tension makes this racquet very convenient for hard-hitting!
• The head shape of this racket is isometric and it has a head-heavy balance type. Such a balance type is the most fitting for highly powered smash shots.

With a good, tight, and handy grip, I think this racket is very well suited for aggressive play, unlike the Carbonex 8000 Plus.

The best use of this racket is when you’re playing doubles, with your partner being defensive and you being aggressive with this head-heavy VOLTRIC 0.7DG racket.

#5 Yonex Nanoray Light 18i Graphite

Declaring the Nanoray Light 18i racket as the 5th best overall, the Japanese sports equipment company Yonex has secured all the top 5 positions in our list, and rightly so

Nanoray Light 18i is a fantastic racket with an isometric head and an in-built T joint.

• The size specifications of this racket are 5U – G4, which implies its weight is in the range of 75 to 79.9 grams and has a grip of length 3.5 inches.
• Both the frame and the shaft of this racket are made of carbon graphite, and its string tension amounts to 30 lbs.
• Its balance type is head-light, which means this racquet is NOT suitable for an offensive game that includes powered smashing.
• Being head-light, coupled with a light 5U weight, this racket is easy to move around with agility, making it a suitable choice for the players who are inclined to play defensively.

When I played with this racquet, I liked its aerodynamically friendly frame, which minimized the air resistance. Swinging the Nanoray Light 18i across is much smoother than other racquets as it doesn’t let you miss your shots because of timing errors.

Its heavy base structure offers more control and doesn’t strain your wrists easily

#6 Li-Ning SS-G5 Series Carbon-Graphite

The S5-G5 Series Li-Nang badminton racket is a quality choice for beginners who aspire to have a mastery over swinging at various angles.

• The weight of this durable racket is 88 grams, with length, height, and width being 67.4 cms, 20 cms, and 1 cm respectively.
• A good string tension of about 30 lbs enables the player to hit long shots without using much strength.
• Extremely efficient for the learners, the S5-G5 racket has a grip of 4.6 inches in length, and hence a larger hand-space to let the naïve players adjust their positioning better.

Using this racquet, I noticed an immediate improvement in my gameplay. I can easily hit the shuttlecock from baseline to baseline, even with imperfect angles.

This racket has allowed me to play my trick shots even more efficiently, as a slight touch is enough to propel the shuttlecock to the other side of the court. If you’ve just begun playing, I highly recommend this!

Li-Ning SS-G5 badminton racquet is great if you are a defensive player, or you often play in a fast-paced doubles format

#7 Li-Ning AYPJ182 Super Series SS 98 III

You’ll love our #7 ranked racquet, the AYPJ182 Super Series SS 98 by Li-Ning if you usually play indoors, and prefer a uniform balance type, with a sporty frame and shaft structure.

• While most of the rackets we mentioned so far had graphite as the constituent frame and shaft material, the Li-Ning AYPJ182 SS 98 has its frame and shaft made of steel!
• Its steel body, along with a duly strung head with well-fixed guts makes it a great choice for beginner to intermediate level players.
• This racket is suitably balanced, such that its head is neither too light which doesn’t make us exert all our energy in one shot, not too heavy which slows down our shot timings.

I feel that this racket is efficient for a general, not too offensive and not too defensive play. But since its price is too high, you shouldn’t invest in this racket if you play badminton just for recreation or fun

#8 Li-Ning Super SS Series G4

The Super SS Series G4 racket with 4.5 inches of grip length claims the #8 spot in our rankings. It is designed with an optimized frame structure for the players who desire precision and accuracy.

• This racket has a carbon fiber frame and a graphite shaft, which makes it damage resistant.
• With a weight of 83 grams, this racket is mostly used for playing singles format, but can also be used in a doubles game. It is very easy to get control of this racket and has a decent offensive and defensive capabilities.

Because this racquet isn’t easily damaged, and it is good for any kind of gameplay strategy, I mostly use this racket for my practice sessions

It is cost-effective and will last a long time even with hard practices

As the quality of this badminton racket is really good at the price, there’s no need to go for the costly ones. Its original gutting is very tight and the overall movement control is more than just satisfactory

#9 Carlton Heritage v5.1

Carlton Heritage v5.1 is one of the best badminton rackets that is also very easy on the pocket.

The specifications of both the rackets: Carlton Heritage v5.0 and Carlton Heritage v5.1 are the same, with the only difference being the string tension.

Carlton Heritage v5.1 provides a higher string tension in comparison to v5.0.

• It is lightweight, weighing around 82 grams, and it gives the player an evenly balanced feel.
• This racquet offers a lightning-fast swing speed to easily and effectively return the shuttlecock to the other side of the badminton court.
• Its frame is made of Japanese HM carbon, which is known for its longevity and toughness.
• With a string tension of 30 lbs, this evenly balanced racket can easily be the favorite of intermediate to elite level players. Additionally, its ultra-flexible shaft gives your shots an added momentum.

I found this lightweight racket good for both singles and doubles gameplay formats. A slight experience and control is needed to effectively play with this racquet. It is recommended for a controlled and technical game

#10 Li-Ning 60 II G-Tek Carbon Fiber

The budget-friendliness of this small grip badminton racquet and its decent specifications make it a very hot choice for beginner and intermediate players.

• The shaft and frame of this racket are made of carbon fiber and aluminum alloy respectively, while its grip is composed of polyurethane.
• The presence of carbon fiber makes it a medium-weight racket, and hence, it is good for both aggressive and defensive play styles.
• Its frame is compressed with a special groove construction design in order to improve torsion resistance. This avoids frame deformation and twisting, which provides the players with a more stable and accurate attack point.
• It has a balance point of 320 mm and an isometric head shape, which enlarges the sweet spot for providing accurate shot placements.

The most impressive aspect of this racket to me is that its frame doesn’t get distorted easily — which makes striking more stable and accurate. I also found that its unique shaft design provides easier free control

#11 Victor Brave Sword 1900 G5 Speed Series

If there’s any brand that can compete with Yonex and Li-Ning based on quality or durability, it is Victor.

Victor’s Brave Sword 1900 G5 Speed badminton racquet has a string tension of about 25 lbs. You won’t require more tension than this if you’re a club player. Only national-level players need to play with a higher tension.

• This racket has a relatively stiff shaft, and a sturdy frame; both of which are made of graphite and resin. These qualities offer strength in shot placements.
• It comes in two variants, one with a weight range of 3U (85 to 89.9 grams) and one in 4U (80 to 84.9 grams).
• Additionally, the G5 grip length makes for a proportional grip-weight combination that helps players achieve better movement control.
• Its balance type is a headlight, which makes it more suitable for fast and agile play, but not for aggressive gameplay. Hence, the players with more inclination towards a defensive strategy will find this racket fitting!

This was my first headlight racket, and I have got a special attachment to it. 25 lbs are enough string tension for me, and although it requires a little more flex to hit smashes, I got used to its unique style within 2 weeks or so

Beginners, intermediates, and professionals would enjoy this racquet if they like rallying

#12 Yonex VOLTRIC 0.5DG

The VOLTRIC 0.5DG racquet by Yonex comes with a 35 lbs string tension, which is very high and thus attracts many elite level players and professionals.

• The state-of-the-art nanometric carbon technology has been used in designing this racquet’s lean and robust aerodynamic shaft.
• The durable shaft, combined with the high tension support this racquet provides, accounts for more powerful shots and better control.
• This badminton racket also has 3U – G4 size specifications, which means its weight is in the range of 85 to 89.9 grams and has a short grip — 3.5 inches in length.
• You can use this racket to deliver smashes at an intense pace. The weight of this racquet is balanced on the top of the frame and at the joint area which allows good handling while also maintaining power.
• Its unique frame design provides air resistance and improves the handling even further.

In my experience, usually, only the skilled players can appropriately use this racket, as they can handle its quick responsive timing while hitting the shuttlecock. It gives me a very high level of dexterity, especially when I wish to play with an added burst of power

Its balance being head heavy, the weight being in the 3U category, and its quality to strike with intense force takes some time for the new users to get adjusted to handling this racquet

# 13 Carlton Heritage v5.2 HL (Matt)

Carlton Heritage v5.2 is an upgraded version of v5.1 — much better in terms of technology. We have given it #13 spot and v5.1 the #9 spot because the latter is more affordable.

• Carlton Heritage v5.2 and Carlton Heritage v5.1 differ in string tension, weight, material composition, and technology.
• Carlton Heritage v5.2 racket is a good choice for intermediate and advanced players.
• Its total length is 67.5 cm and the beam width is 55 cm.
• The frame of this racquet is made of Japanese HM carbon, which provides durability while the materials used for the shaft provide high-end flexibility.
• Its weight is about 82 grams and has a G4 grip, which implies 3.5 inches in length. The weight and grip of the Carlton Heritage v5.2 racquet make it suitable for both types of gameplays: aggressive and defensive.
• The isometric head shape of this racket provides a greater sweet spot for better shot placements.
• Its lightweight frame lets the players swing the racket efficiently by making the movement smoother than usual. The 30lbs string tension makes the shot delivery more dynamic and provides maximum shuttle repulsion.

I found this racquet to be performing unbelievably well! It can hit the shuttlecock harder than you might expect. It is well balanced, and with proper technique, can be used for any kind of gameplay strategy

# 14 Yonex Duora 77

This racquet lies slightly towards the costlier side, but its qualities can very well compensate for the price you’d pay for it

• This badminton racket has 3U – G4 size specifications, which means its weight is in the range of 85 to 89.9 grams and has a grip of 3.25 inches in length.
• The frame and shaft of this racket are made of graphite, which is widely favored for its endurance and damage resistance.
• The square-shaped isometric head and 26 lbs string tension of Yonex Duora 77 makes it suitable for a player of any level — beginner, intermediate, skilled, or elite!
• The length, height, and width of this racket are 25, 4, and 15 cms respectively. These dimensions make it appear stylish and premium!

Apart from the fact that it’s a bit difficult for me to figure out which side is the forehand and which one is the backhand of this racquet; I have no complaints!

Its strings are finely aligned vertically and horizontally, which systemizes for a wider sweet spot.

It has a fast kickback and is very evenly balanced. Whether your playing strategy is offensive, defensive, or improvising — this racket will not let you down.

Additionally, its grip feels a lot firmer than the grips of other rackets in the same price range.

# 15 Yonex 8 Power Blend

This racket is developed in Japan and manufactured in Taiwan. The material used in its frame is HM graphite.

• The G4 grip size (3.25 inches) makes it comfortable for every player.
• Its light 4U weight makes it easier to carry around and swing, but can only support defensive play and not an aggressive play style.
• From what I’ve experienced, this racquet feels good in my hand. Due to its 4U weight, you might have to put in more strength for a power play.
• I used it for doubles game but it started to hurt my hand, forearm, elbow, and shoulder due to the extra power I had to exert. However, it’s perfect for a singles game where you play rallies and not attempt many hard smashes.
• As this racket is made of graphite, you can be assured that it is durable and long-lasting. Since it comes from a brand like Yonex, you can trust the quality.

FAQ’s About Badminton Racquet

Is a heavier badminton racket better?

Racquet weight is a personal choice. Heavier racquets add more power and momentum to your shots, but you need enough strength to control them.

Lighter rackets, on the other hand, are fairly easy to control, but they are unfit for an aggressive playstyle. A lighter racket is highly dependent on your wrist and forearm to generate power.

I personally prefer a heavier racket because I can’t feel the impact when a lighter racket hits the shuttlecock. That way, I’m left clueless about the direction of my smashes.

But when playing in the doubles format, I don’t have to cover all of my blindsides. I just need to depend on the speed of my reflexive counters. So, just for doubles, I use a lighter racket.

Which racket is good for Smash?

A racket with a head-heavy balance type is good for smashes. The center of mass in such rackets is shifted towards the head, resulting in the head is heavier than the shaft.

This facilitates power play and smashes, as the head-heavy racket will reflect the shuttlecock back with higher acceleration.

However, your hand, arm, and shoulder muscles should be strong enough to properly maneuver these types of rackets.

Smashing with a head-light racket will require you to exert much more strength, which can hurt your wrist and elbow joints.

Which is the most powerful badminton racket?

Yonex Voltric Series 0.7 DG and Yonex Astrox 99 are two of the most powerful badminton rackets I’ve used.

The intense shots delivered by both these rackets can easily overwhelm any non-elite opponent!

With a brilliant aerodynamic design, these rackets will allow any decently skilled player to hit a steep angled and devastating smash, which will be extremely unlikely to counter.

Is Yonex better than Li Ning?

If you’re a beginner, just forget about the racquet brand. Simply choose an evenly balanced racket and work on your fundamentals, such as plyometric exercises, swinging posture, footwork, etc.

For the intermediate to advanced level players, specifications such as the brand, balance type, string tension, and grip length would matter.

I prefer Yonex over Li Ning simply because of my offensive playstyle —Yonex offers a wide range of head-heavy rackets, especially the Yonex Voltric series.

Having said that, I also love Li Ning SS-G5 Series because of its durability and enhanced air resistance.

Are expensive badminton rackets worth it?

In short:

• Yes, if you are a pro.
• No, if you are a beginner.

There is not much difference between a racket that is priced at ₹3500 ($50) and another that costs ₹10,000 ($150) for a beginner to an intermediate level player. Your speed, accuracy, agility, power, and hand-eye coordination play a bigger role at these levels.

But as you acquire more and more skills and become elite at badminton, racquet characteristics like its balance type, shaft material, and flexibility make a difference.

A racket can be best understood by considering it analogous to a gun. An automatic, semi-automatic, and an assault rifle can have their own pros and cons, but if you don’t even know how to use a gun, buying an expensive one won’t help.

Thus, expensive rackets are worth it, if you’re at the advanced level.

How long do badminton rackets last?

These days, badminton rackets last a really long time.

For desirable longevity and durability, look for a racket made of carbon graphite. Such rackets usually last longer than the ones not made of this material.

But the constituent materials aren’t everything. You have to take care of your racket sincerely to ensure it will last long.

Tips used by me to make my rackets last for at least a year are:

• Using my racket only in the court.
•  When I’m done playing, I carefully put the racket back on its cover.
• I always use a dry grip.

How much should I spend on a badminton racket?

You should spend money proportional to your skills in badminton.

• The beginners should spend no more than ₹3500 ($50) as the quality of rackets doesn’t play an important role at this level. Their own physical capabilities matter much more.
• The intermediate players should spend around ₹7000 ($100) as it is expected of them to possess all the needed physical skills. At this level, the quality and specifications of a racket begin to affect the gameplay.
• The advanced level, elite and professional players should at least spend ₹10,000 ($150) because even slight advantages in the quality of rackets can give your opponent the winning edge at this level.

Which grip size is best for badminton?

Players generally prefer smaller grip sizes nowadays. Grip sizes are measured by “G + Number”.

Length: G1 > G2 > G3 > G4 > G5.

Almost all Yonex rackets are G4 in grip size, whereas Victor rackets typically come in a G5 standard.

Unless you have a really large hand, a G4 or G5 grip size is optimal.

To know which grip size will fit you the best, simply wrap your hand around the racquet’s handle and check how much space is in between your thumb and fingers. If there’s about a finger’s width of space, the grip size suits you; otherwise not.

Which is the best badminton racket in the world?

• Offensive gameplay:
  • Yonex Muscle Power 29
  • Yonex Voltric 0.7 DG Badminton Racket.
• Doubles format / Defensive gameplay:
  • Yonex Nanoray Light 18i Graphite Badminton Racket.
• Improvisation gameplay:
  • Li Ning AYPJ182 Super Series SS 98 III Badminton Racket

Do all rackets come with covers?

Yes. The majority of the rackets nowadays come with a cover.