Badminton is a great activity for your fitness, whether you do it recreationally or competitively. A good badminton racket helps in form and technique to improve your game and prevent injuries. With many options available, picking the ideal badminton racket might be tricky.
The key to finding the right one is to first identify your level and your playing style. To help you, we collaborated with fitness coach Michelle Estuar for a comprehensive buying guide. We've also compiled a top 10 list of badminton rackets available online. For more details, keep reading!
Quick List - Top Badminton Rackets
Michelle Estuar is the Head Coach of one of the indoor cycling studios in Metro Manila. She trains individuals interested in becoming cycling coaches. She also designs and develops programs to meet fitness goals. To add to that, she is a former triathlete, running coach, and ultra-marathoner, and has completed long-distance events such as a 102km run and a 10km open water swim. Michelle is addicted to anything related to sports and fitness as well as diet and nutrition. She has tried (and will keep on trying) the latest trends in diets, apps, equipment, gears, and accessories—she will do anything to stay fit and healthy.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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Choosing the right badminton racket is crucial for maximizing your performance on the court. Our buying guide your decision, including the racket's weight, balance point, string tension, head shape, and your preferred playing style.
Starting your badminton journey as a beginner or recreational player? Choosing the right racket is your first step towards building a solid foundation for your skills, as it can shape your playing style. From weight and balance to string tension and head shape, here are factors or features you should look for to get a badminton racket that suits your skill level.
A 3U or 2U (90-99 grams) racket is suitable for beginners since it will provide a balance of power and control.
The "U" on a badminton racket denotes weight. It ranges from 5U to 1U, where 5U represents the lightest racket and 1U represents the heaviest racket.
The best badminton weight for beginners is a midweight racket, which is typically classified as a 3U or 2U. It is a versatile choice for players still learning and developing their skills. It is also easy to maneuver for players to practice various strokes and techniques effectively.
A medium balance point has a frame that is balanced in the middle and is good enough to play with power and speed at the same time, whether offensive or defensive.
There are three main types of balance points: head-heavy, even balance, and head-light. A medium or even balance point is considered the middle of these extremes. Rackets with a medium balance point are suitable for beginners because their weight is evenly distributed throughout the frame, making them easier to maneuver than rackets with a head-heavy balance.
They also cater to various playing styles, making them ideal for those who are still exploring their strengths and preferences on the court. Moreover, they have a comfortable and balanced feel.
The string tension of a badminton racket refers to the tightness or looseness of the strings. For beginners who are still developing their technique, a racket with a lower tension (<24 lbs) is suitable since its strings bend and then bounce back, sending the shuttlecock away with more speed, allowing you to still hit powerful shots without using a lot of force. This also makes it easier to control the shots.
Beginners and intermediates must avoid rackets designed for the advanced, which are stiffer and have a higher tension. They must look for ones that are less stiff and have lower string tension.
Isometric has a squared tip, which gives a larger sweet spot area. This is perfect for newbies and those training to build their technique. A larger striking surface can be helpful, too, in doubles games.
But remember, it's not magic! Good form and practice are still important for amazing shots. The larger sweet spot mainly increases the chances of successful hits and makes returning the shuttlecock easier, but it doesn't eliminate the possibility of making mistakes.
Intermediate players require a racket that complements their evolving playing style. Hence, it's important to find one that not only meets your current needs but also supports your journey towards becoming a more skilled and versatile badminton player.
Generally, lighter rackets (80-89 g) are easier to maneuver for faster swings and reaction times. Meanwhile, heavier rackets (100-110 g), can provide momentum and inertia for powerful smashes and clears.
For intermediate players, the choice between lighter and heavier rackets depends on their playing style, preferences, and the aspects they aim to improve. Players prioritizing speed and agility, like those excelling in net play and quick rallies, benefit from lighter rackets (3U/4U, 80-89g). These offer faster maneuverability for rapid reactions and transitions.
On the other hand, players seeking increased power in smashes and baseline shots might opt for heavier rackets (2U/1U, 100-110g). Imagine a heavier hammer delivering a stronger blow - the extra weight translates to more powerful smashes.
A medium balance racket (285-295mm) offers a sweet spot between both worlds, blending the power advantage of a head-heavy racket with the maneuverability of a head-light one for balanced gameplay.
Rackets with higher tension have a smaller sweet spot, allowing increased precision in controlling the shuttlecock.
Developing precise shots is crucial for intermediate players. For this, a racket with higher tension can be beneficial since it facilitates better accuracy when executing various strokes. It allows for more precise control over the shuttlecock since it has a smaller sweet spot.
This is also helpful for intermediate players looking to enhance their overall speed on the court since the higher string tension generates added speed. This can help them deliver quick drives, smashes, or rapid net plays.
Square-shaped rackets (isometric) offer a larger sweet spot for more forgiving play across styles.
It is good for beginners and intermediate players who are still learning the technique, but advanced doubles players also prefer it because of the larger sweet spot, which can help during a fast-paced game.
Advanced players often require a badminton racket tailored to their specific playing style and preferences. Hence, it's crucial to seek rackets that complement their individual strengths. Here are a few features to consider:
As an advanced player, your playing style will dictate the suitable weight of your racket.
If your playing style leans towards speed and agility, consider going for a lighter racket (80-89g). These are designed for players who prioritize quick reactions, rapid rallies, and swift movements on the court.
Conversely, if your playing style involves power and forceful shots, a heavier racket (94g above) might be more suitable. Heavier rackets contribute to powerful smashes, clears, and baseline shots. The additional weight also enhances the momentum during your swing, making it ideal for players with aggressive playing styles.
High balance point rackets (>295mm) offer more weight in the head, increasing momentum and inertia for powerful smashes and clears.
Tighter strings offer less trampoline effect, resulting in more controlled shots that go closer to where you aim.
Advanced players prioritize precision and control in their shots, and a badminton racket with a higher string tension complements these. Higher string tension provides a smaller sweet spot, enabling precise shot placement. This is crucial for executing a wide range of accurate and advanced strokes.
The quick response from tighter strings is also suitable for advanced players who often engage in fast-paced rallies. The tightly strung strings allow rapid rebound of the shuttlecock, facilitating faster plays.
The oval-head design gives an advantage for professionals or when used during a fast-paced game. It also offers more power and lets players do spins and fancy shots more easily.
Advanced players often prioritize precision and control in their shots, and the centralized sweet spot and streamlined shape of the oval head design can provide the level of accuracy required to execute intricate shots with consistency.
It also contributes to the racket's overall agility, which can allow advanced players to respond swiftly to opponents' shots. Moreover, the versatile oval head design can accommodate different shot types, allowing seamless transitions between offensive and defensive plays.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Weight (U) | Weight (g) | Balance Point | String Tension | Head Shape | Racket Material | Length | |||||
1 | Yonex Astrox 100ZZ | ![]() | Power and Precision for Advanced Players | 4U | 83 g | Head-Heavy | 28 lbs | Isometric | Graphite | 675 mm | |
2 | Yonex Arcsaber 11 Pro|4U | ![]() | Control and Stability for Tactical Play | 4U | 83 g | Even | 27 lbs | Isometric | Carbon Fiber | 675 mm | |
3 | Yonex Nanoflare 1000Z | ![]() | Speed and Agility for Fast-Paced Matches | 4U | 83 g | Head-Light | 26 lbs | Isometric | Carbon Fiber | 675 mm | |
4 | Yonex Voltric Z-Force II | ![]() | Power and Smash Dominance | 4U | 83 g | Head-Heavy | 20-30 lbs | Isometric | Carbon Fiber | 675 mm | |
5 | Victor Thruster Ryuga|II | ![]() | Aggressive Power with Lightweight Design | 4U | 83 g | Head-Heavy | 28 lbs | Isometric | Carbon Fiber | 675 mm | |
6 | Yonex Astrox 99 Play Badminton Racket | ![]() | Precision and Power for Competitive Play | 4U | 83 g | Head-Heavy | 28 lbs | Isometric | Graphite | 675 mm | |
7 | Kawasaki All-Carbon Fiber Badminton Rackets |KC-081 & KD-3 | ![]() | Durable Carbon Fiber for Reliable Performance | 3U | 90 g | Even | 28 lbs | Isometric | Full Carbon Fiber | 675 mm | |
8 | Victor TK-HAWK | ![]() | Lightweight Offense with Carbon Fiber Strength | 4U | 83 g | Even | 28 lbs | Isometric | Carbon Fiber | 675 mm | |
9 | Li-Ning Axforce 100 | ![]() | Professional-Grade Power and Control | 4U | 83 g | Head-Heavy | 28 lbs | Isometric | All Carbon | 675 mm | |
10 | Kawasaki Aurora Badminton Racket | ![]() | High-Modulus Graphite for Speed and Strength | 5U | 80 g | Head-Heavy | 28 lbs | Isometric | 40T High Modulus Graphite | 675 mm |
Many users appreciate the racket’s exceptional power and precision, noting it significantly improves their smashes and shot control during competitive play. Advanced players find it well-balanced for aggressive offensive styles, praising its quick response and ability to generate speed. However, some mention that the racket’s stiffness and weight distribution require proper technique and arm strength to avoid fatigue or discomfort over extended matches. Beginners or casual players may find it less forgiving initially but agree that with practice, it offers excellent performance and durability. Overall, the racket is highly recommended for those seeking a high-quality, professional-grade option that enhances both power and control on the court.
Weight (U) | 4U |
---|---|
Weight (g) | 83 g |
Balance Point | Head-Heavy |
String Tension | 28 lbs |
Head Shape | Isometric |
Racket Material | Graphite |
Length | 675 mm |
Users commend the racket’s excellent control and stability, ideal for players who rely on tactical shot placement. Many appreciate its comfortable grip and balanced feel, which helps reduce arm fatigue. Some note it may lack the raw power of heavier rackets but agree it excels in maneuverability and precision. Overall, it is favored by intermediate to advanced players looking for consistent performance.
Weight (U) | 4U |
---|---|
Weight (g) | 83 g |
Balance Point | Even |
String Tension | 27 lbs |
Head Shape | Isometric |
Racket Material | Carbon Fiber |
Length | 675 mm |
Players highlight its exceptional speed and responsiveness, making it perfect for fast rallies and quick net play. The lightweight design allows for swift wrist action, though some users mention it may feel less stable during powerful smashes. It is widely praised for improving agility and reaction time, especially among singles players.
Weight (U) | 4U |
---|---|
Weight (g) | 83 g |
Balance Point | Head-Light |
String Tension | 26 lbs |
Head Shape | Isometric |
Racket Material | Carbon Fiber |
Length | 675 mm |
This racket is celebrated for delivering powerful smashes and excellent control, favored by offensive players. Some users mention it requires good technique due to its stiffness and weight. It is highly recommended for players who want to dominate with power but still maintain accuracy.
Weight (U) | 4U |
---|---|
Weight (g) | 83 g |
Balance Point | Head-Heavy |
String Tension | 20-30 lbs |
Head Shape | Isometric |
Racket Material | Carbon Fiber |
Length | 675 mm |
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate the combination of power and lightness, noting it enhances attacking shots without sacrificing speed. The racket is comfortable for long matches, though a few mention it may not suit defensive styles. Overall, it’s praised as a great choice for offensive players seeking a reliable and affordable option.
Weight (U) | 4U |
---|---|
Weight (g) | 83 g |
Balance Point | Head-Heavy |
String Tension | 28 lbs |
Head Shape | Isometric |
Racket Material | Carbon Fiber |
Length | 675 mm |
Players love its blend of power and control, making it suitable for aggressive singles play. Many highlight its quick response and ability to generate speed, though some find it requires strong technique to handle its stiffness. It is widely regarded as a top-tier racket for serious competitors.
Weight (U) | 4U |
---|---|
Weight (g) | 83 g |
Balance Point | Head-Heavy |
String Tension | 28 lbs |
Head Shape | Isometric |
Racket Material | Graphite |
Length | 675 mm |
Users value the durability and balanced feel, suitable for both beginners and intermediate players. The set offers good value, but some mention the rackets feel heavier compared to premium models. Overall, it’s recommended for casual and club players looking for solid performance.
Weight (U) | 3U |
---|---|
Weight (g) | 90 g |
Balance Point | Even |
String Tension | 28 lbs |
Head Shape | Isometric |
Racket Material | Full Carbon Fiber |
Length | 675 mm |
Players praise its lightweight feel and offensive capabilities, noting it helps improve attack speed. Some users mention it may lack stability for power smashes but excel in quick maneuvering. It’s favored by players who prioritize speed and control in their game.
Weight (U) | 4U |
---|---|
Weight (g) | 83 g |
Balance Point | Even |
String Tension | 28 lbs |
Head Shape | Isometric |
Racket Material | Carbon Fiber |
Length | 675 mm |
Users highlight its professional build quality and power output, ideal for offensive players. Many appreciate its durability and stylish look. Some beginners find it less forgiving but agree it offers excellent control and shot precision for serious players.
Weight (U) | 4U |
---|---|
Weight (g) | 83 g |
Balance Point | Head-Heavy |
String Tension | 28 lbs |
Head Shape | Isometric |
Racket Material | All Carbon |
Length | 675 mm |
Players praise its fast swing and solid feel, noting it enhances both offensive and defensive shots. The lightweight design is appreciated for quick reactions, though some mention the tension adjustment requires care. Overall, it’s recommended for players seeking a high-performance racket with customization options.
Weight (U) | 5U |
---|---|
Weight (g) | 80 g |
Balance Point | Head-Heavy |
String Tension | 28 lbs |
Head Shape | Isometric |
Racket Material | 40T High Modulus Graphite |
Length | 675 mm |
We asked Fitness Coach Michelle Estuar some of the web's most asked questions. Read below to know her answers!
Typically, racket lengths range from 665 mm to a maximum of 680 mm. A longer racket is ideal for offense. It's useful for drop shots and angled shots or smashes.
You should restring your racket if the strings appear frail or shaggy. It's best to regularly check the stringed area because the string tension decreases every time you play, especially if you hit hard or with a spin.
A head-heavy racket is the best for power play like smashes. An example of this is the Dunlop Nitro Star F110 badminton racket.
Looking for more ways to keep yourself active? Check out more articles below!
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Yonex|Astrox 100ZZ
No. 2: Yonex|Arcsaber 11 Pro|4U
No. 3: Yonex|Nanoflare 1000Z
No. 4: Yonex|Voltric Z-Force II
No. 5: Victor|Thruster Ryuga|II
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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