There is no doubt that smashing is a lethal weapon in the game of badminton. Every player always searches for the opportunity to finish the point with a powerful smash. The importance of badminton racket characteristics is quite significant to induce power in your shots. A racket that is conducive to offensive play can add an ‘X’ factor to your performance. In this article, I am trying to depict the picture of the 7 best badminton rackets for smashing that will help you to crush your opponent’s defense.
Best Badminton Racket for Smash: Comparison Chart
Best Badminton Racket for Smash Reviews
The following are the top rackets to give you the advantage of dominating your opponent with smash power.
- Voltric Z Force II (Yonex)
- Astrox 99 Game (Yonex)
- Astrox 100 ZZ (Yonex)
- Thruster K 770-HT (Victor)
- Voltric 2 DG Slim (Yonex)
- Air Force 77 (Li-Ning)
- Astrox Smash (Yonex)
- Z-Ziggler (Apacs)
Yonex Voltric Z Force II/ Best Badminton Racket for Smash
Specifications
| Weight | (80 – 84.9 grams) 4U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite + Sound Filter + Nanometric + Tungsten |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite + Ex-HMG + Nanometric |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Extra Stiff |
| String Tension | 20 – 27 lbs |
| Shaft Diameter | 6.9 mm |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Playing Level | Advanced |
Key Features
- Tri Voltage system
- Nanometric technology for stiff thinner shaft
- Sounds filter for reducing vibrations
- Ultra-slim stiff shaft
- Aerodynamic frame
- Tungsten infused grommet
Yonex Voltric Z Force 2, one of the best-selling premium racquets, is the result of many high-end innovative technologies to make it a powerhouse in the game of badminton. It’s a head-heavy racket with a stiff ultra-slim shaft that is conducive to power and fast racket handling. Further, to bring more power, Yonex has designed the frame with tungsten-infused grommets where the grommets are not exposed outside, i.e. they are part of the inside frame. This concept along with the smaller compact head reduces air resistance by a considerable amount for faster racket swing to add more speed to the shuttlecock.
While the famous Tri Voltage System gives the best combination of power and fast racket handling, the use of the Nanometric material makes the shaft thinner by 60% while retaining stiffness for fast head speed and control.
The Voltric Z Force is an outstanding badminton racket for smashing which is suitable for the use of advanced and professional players. Beginners should stay away from using this powerful weapon, otherwise, it may bring sore shoulders or elbow joints.
Pros
- Powerful heavy smashes
- Speedy racket handling with stability
- Control support cap for a comfortable grip and easier maneuverability
Cons
- Suitable for singles
Yonex Astrox 99 Game
Specifications
| Weight | (80 – 84.9 grams) 4U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite + Nanometric Neo + Volume Cut Resin + Tungsten |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite + Nanometric Neo |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | 20 – 28 lbs |
| Shaft Diameter | 7.2 mm |
| Grip | G5 (3.00”) |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| Playing Level | Advanced |
Key Features
- Use of Nanomesh Neo material in both the shaft and frame to increase the flexibility of the racket during impact.
- Rotational Generator System for effective mass distribution at the frame top, joint area, and grip end.
- Energy Boost Cap at the joint to enhance the capacity of Nanomesh Neo.
- 7.2 mm slim shaft
- Power Assist Bumper
- Aero + Box frame for less air resistance with stability
Yonex Astrox 99 Game, utilizes the innovative Nanomesh Neo material not only in the shaft but also in the frame. Nanomesh Neo is the economical variant of the famous NAND material used in the Astrox 99 Pro. Due to the direct adhesion of the Nanometric materials with graphite fibers, the racket flexes more when hitting the shuttlecock and stiffens back after impact. This not only results in smashes with explosive power but also, the quick recovery helps fast exchanges of drive, and easy net kills.
The Astrox 99 Game is also built with the technology, “Rotational Generator System” which increases power on smash with a steeper angle and also maximizes control with a smoother transition from one shot to another shot. The 7.2 mm super slim shaft cuts easily through the air resulting in more power on your smash.
Yonex Astrox 99 Game is one of the best badminton rackets for a powerful smash that capitalizes on both power and fast racket handling.
Pros
- Steep sharp smash
- Explosive power on smashes
- Fast racket handling
Cons
- Not for beginners
YONEX Astrox 100ZZ/ Best Badminton Racket for Smashing
Specifications
| Weight | (80 – 84.9 grams) 4U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite + NAMD + Tungsten + Black Micro Core + Nanometric |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite + NAMD |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Extra Stiff |
| String Tension | 20 – 28 lbs |
| Shaft Diameter | 6.2 mm |
| Grip | G5 (3.00”) |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Playing Level | Advanced |
Key Features
- Rotational Generator System
- Use of new NAMD material as a binding element
- Addition of Black Micro Core into the frame materials
- The slimmest shaft that Yonex has ever produced
- Solid feel core
- Energy boost cap plus
Yonex Astrox 100 ZZ, launched in March 2020, has an ultra-thin solid core shaft that has been used for the first time in any Yonex racket instead of a hollow shaft. The entire head-to-handle connection gives a crisp feeling and solid touch with perfect timing whereas the extra stiffness with head-heavy balance generates exceptional power.
Like the Astrox 99, this racket also uses the benefits of adding the new NAMD material both in the shaft and frame for effective powerful shots. The inclusion of the vibration-dampening Black Micro Core material in the upper frame gives a solid feel and enhanced stability.
It is a flagship racquet that is well-suited for both singles and doubles. It excels in all areas from smash power to net drops and can be adopted by different playing styles.
Pros
- Powerful smash
- Good control and accuracy
- Great for drop and clear shots
- Suitable both for singles and doubles
Cons
- Not for beginners
Victor Thruster K 770-HT/ Badminton Racket for Smashing
Specifications
| Weight | (80 – 84.9 grams) 4U |
| Frame Material | Ultra H.M. Graphite + Nano Resin |
| Shaft Material | Ultra H.M. Graphite + Nano Resin |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Stiff |
| String Tension | ≦32 lbs |
| Grip | G5 (3.00”) |
| Made in | China |
| Playing Level | Intermediate & Advanced |
Key Features
- NanoTech: Reinforced stiffness
- Hard-cored technology: For improved strength
- Power Box: Box-shaped frame for withstanding high string tension
- Catapult Structure: For relearning a high amount of stored energy
- Seven Six 76: For enhanced string life
Victor Thruster K 770-HT is a powerful racket that induces more thrust in your shots, whether is a smash or clear from the backcourt. It is a strong badminton racket that can take up to 32 lbs. The Catapult frame structure boosts power by 9.75% by releasing more energy to the shuttlecock. The inclusion of nano-size particles in the vacant space of carbon fibers enhances the durability of the head-heavy racket. The Thruster K 770 is one of the best rackets under ₹7000 for intermediates or even advanced who love to dominate their opponent with smash power.
Pros
- Excellent head-heavy offensive racket
- Great for powerful smashing
- Good from clears
- Strong and durable
Cons
- Not for beginners
Yonex Voltric 2 DG Slim
Specifications
| Weight | (85 – 89.9 grams) 3U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite + Ultra HM Graphite + Tungsten |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | 24 – 35 lbs |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| Playing Level | Intermediate and Advanced |
Key Features
- Tri Voltage System
- Aero + Box Frame
- Ultra Slim Shaft
- Control support cap
- Built-in T-joint
- New grommet pattern
Yonex Voltric 2 DG Slim has an ultra-thin, super-slim shaft with a head-heavy balance to crush your opponent’s defense with ease. The unique Tri Voltage System balances the weight at the frame top and T-joint area for good handling while maintaining power. This racket has a sting tension support of up to 35 lbs that gives you the advantage of playing shots with better control and placement. The frame is built with strong ultra-high modulus graphite that gives the necessary strength for sustaining high tension.
Pros
- Very powerful smashes
- Good control
- Nice Grip
Cons
- Slightly heavy
Li-Ning Air Force 77/ Badminton Racket for Smashing
Specifications
| Weight | 77 grams |
| Frame Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Shaft Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | 22 – 30 lbs |
| Shaft Diameter | 7.0 mm |
| Grip | S1 |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Playing Level | Intermediate & Advanced |
Key Features
- TB Nanotechnology
- Dynamic optimum frame
- Wing stabilizer
- Aerotec beam system
Li-Ning Air Force 77 is built with the trademark TB Nanotech, Dynamic Optimum Frame, and Aerotech Beam for a faster swing, high precision, and an extended sweet spot to level your game to a higher level. The head-heavy profile brings power on smashes, and the wing stabilizer enhances stability for precision with perfection. With a reasonable price of ₹2489 on Amazon India, the Air Force 77 is the best badminton racket for smash from Li-Ning under a small budget.
Pros
- Good for smashing with precision
- Faster racket swing
- High strength and durability
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not for beginners
Yonex Astrox Smash
Specifications
| Weight | 73 +/- 2 gms (F) |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite + Tungsten |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite + Nanomesh Neo |
| Balance | Head Heavy (300 mm +/- 3) |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | 28 lbs |
| Shaft Diameter | 7.2 mm |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Playing Level | Beginner/ Intermediate |
Key Features
- The Rotational Generator System is unique in Yonex’s Astrox series racket.
- Nanomesh Neo for increasing adhesion between carbon particles and resin.
- Isometric Head shape for the larger sweet spot
- Control support cap for easy gripping with added power
- New grommet pattern
As the name indicates, Yonex Astrox Smash boosts your smash power for better output. The implementation of the Rotational Generator System increases the transmission of energy during impact with a rapid succession from one shot to another shot. The use of Nanomesh Neo increases the bonding strength among carbon fibers for more power and quick recovery. Another added advantage is the concept of the new grommet pattern where only a single string passes through the grommet hole for frictionless contact between the frame and strings.
With an attractive price on Amazon, the Astrox Smash from Yonex is the best badminton racket for smash for beginners who want to dominate their opponents with offensive play.
Pros
- Steep, sharp, powerful smashes
- Ultra-lightweight
- Good Control
- Easy to maneuver
- Good for doubles
- Water-proof racket cover
Cons
- Long clears need power from the backcourt
- Suitable for beginners/ Intermediate players
Apacs Z-Ziggler
Specifications
| Weight | 82 – 88 grams (4U) |
| Frame Material | H. M. Graphite |
| Shaft Material | H. M. Graphite |
| Balance | Slightly Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Medium to Flexible |
| String Tension | ≤ 38 lbs |
| Shaft Diameter | 6.4 mm |
| Length | 672 mm |
| Grip | (3.25”) G4 |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Playing Level | Intermediate |
Key Features
- Triple Speed Platform Frame
- Compact smaller frame
- Ultra-slim shaft
- Very high string tension
- Single-pass grommet pattern
Apacs-Z-Ziggler, a head-heavy, high-tension badminton racket has similar features to the Voltric Z Force II for power and the Nanoray Z Speed for speed. This excellent racket is for those players who want instant access to powerful smashes with good control.
The ultra-slim shaft combined with a smaller compact frame reduces air resistance drastically to hit the shuttlecock with more energy. The concept of the Triple Speed Platform frame brings more power on smashes, fast racket handling, and good control. The single-pass grommet system with an increase in the number of grommet holes improves the performance and durability of strings.
Pros
- Powerful sharp smash
- Fast racket handling
- High repulsion power
- Good for drop shots
- Value for money
Cons
- The racket cover is not of high standard
Related Topic: “Top 6 Best Badminton String for Smashing in 2022“
Best Badminton Racket for Smash: Buying Guide
You should consider the following factors for power rackets.
Balance: Head Heavy
This is the prime consideration for delivering explosive power in your smashes. Head-heavy rackets give you the power for full-court clears and smash from the back of the court. The downside is that your reaction at the time of defense might be a little bit sluggish.
Stiffness: Medium – Stiff
Stiff shafts are good for fast, powerful swing and a high level of accuracy but it requires the necessary arm power.
Weight: 3U – 4U
Heavier rackets have the support to hit the shuttlecock with more momentum whereas lighter rackets are easy to maneuver.
Thin Strings: Thin strings have the capability to generate more power.
Related Topic:
- “Top 9 Best Badminton Rackets for Doubles in 2022“
- “The 5 Best Head Heavy Badminton Rackets (Value for Money)“
- “18 Best Badminton Rackets in India [2023] to Uplift Your Game“
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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