Badminton is a thrilling racquet sport that calls for athleticism, quick reflexes, and strategic thinking. Having a top-quality racket is essential for maximizing power and control, which in turn enhances your skills and performance on the court. A well-designed racket can significantly impact the accuracy and strength of your shots, making it an important investment for any serious player looking to elevate their game. However, professional rackets can come with a hefty price tag. So, I set out to find the best badminton rackets under 3000, balancing top-notch performance with affordability. Check out my latest blog post where I provide an in-depth review of 7 top-quality rackets that offer great value to elevate your game.
Best Badminton Rackets Under 3000: Top Picks
YONEX Astrox 99 Play
| Weight | 83 grams (Avg.), 4U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Stiffness | Medium |
| String Tension | 20 – 28 lbs |
| Grip | G5 |
| Playing Level | Intermediate |
The Astrox 99 Play from Yonex has a slim shaft (7.5 mm) with a bigger frame than the famous Astrox 99 Pro model. The Astrox 99 Play is a very well-built racket with a slight compromise in performance than the top 99 Pro model. But the best thing is that you can get it at nearly one-third price! The Astrox 99 Play is a great performer considering it is only priced ₹3299 on Amazon India.
It is a medium flex, 4U category badminton racket ideally suited for intermediate players. The head-heavy balance gives the power to dominate your opponents with attacking play. The string tension (20 – 28 lbs) is perfect for balancing between power and control.
The Astrox 99 Play is a top badminton racket in India within 3000 rupees considering its excellent performance and affordability. The racket is available in two colors, White Tiger and Cherry Sunburst.
Technologies Used
Rotational Generator System
The Rotational Generator System in Yonex Astrox badminton rackets is about weight balance, where the weight is evenly spread from the handle to the tip of the racket. This helps you control your shots better. This system allows for easier manipulation of shots and provides the ability to make quick consecutive powerful swings.
Aero + Box Frame
The “Aero + Box Frame” is a design feature combining two different frame shapes: aerodynamic and box shapes.
Longer Slim Shaft
A slim shaft is typically more flexible than a thick one. This can provide more power as the shaft bends and then snaps back during a swing
Isometric Head
The isometric head equalizes the length of the main and cross strings in the string bed, enhancing the sweet spot that makes the racket more forgiving,
Power Assist Bumper
The Power Assist Bumper is designed to enhance power and control. It acts as a counterweight, helping maintain balance when swinging the racket.
Pros
Improved Power: The unique construction materials and design allow for powerful smashes and drives.
Great Control: The design of the racket provides good control, allowing for precise shot placement.
Durable: It boasts a sturdy frame and high-quality construction, ensuring durability and reliability for long-term use.
Overall Versatility: Suited for all-round gameplay, due to its blend of power, speed, and control features.
Cons
Not for Beginners: The racket is ideal for intermediate players who prefer head-heavy rackets for powerful shots.
Yonex Astrox 77 Play
| Weight | 83 grams (Avg.), 4U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Stiffness | Hi-Flex |
| String Tension | 20 – 28 lbs |
| Grip | G5 |
| Playing Level | Intermediate |
The Astrox 77 Play is a recently released racket designed in line with the Astrox 77 Pro. Yonex Astrox 77 Play is more suitable for intermediate and recreational players with more attacking gameplay. The racket is very similar to the above-mentioned Astrox 99 Play except for the highly flexible shaft. Due to the added flexibility, the racket holds the shuttle on the string bed longer. This feature gives less experienced players the advantage to improve their overall shot-making capabilities.
Technologies Used
Rotational Generator System
The Rotational Generator System in Yonex Astrox badminton rackets is a unique design for delivering maximum power with an enhanced amount of control to the player.
Aero + Box frame
This technology reduces air resistance for faster racket speed and at the same time increases stability.
10 mm longer slim shaft
A longer shaft extends the overall length of the racket for more reach and at the same time increases flexibility.
Isometric head
The square-shaped head increases the hitting area on the string bed for more consistency.
Pros
Suited for Fast Games: Good for attacking play and high-speed games
Ease of Play: Allows players to recover from difficult court positions easily
Good for both attack and defense: All-around racket with extra power
Great choice for amateurs
Cons
Not too good for power smashes: While it provides sufficient power, the extra amount of flexibility may not satisfy attacking players looking to deliver the hardest smashes.
Li-Ning Ignite 7 Speed Badminton Racket
| Weight | 77 grams |
| Frame Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Shaft Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Stiffness | Flexible |
| String Tension | 28 – 30 lbs |
| Grip | S1 |
| Playing Level | Intermediate |
The IGNITE 7 from Li-Ning is a lightweight, head-heavy badminton racket that can withstand up to 30 lbs of string tension. To give stability and durability, the racket is designed with TB Nanotechnology. The head-heavy balance brings power while the Aerotech beam system increases speed. The dynamic optimum frame design adds consistency to your game.
The Ignite 7 is the best badminton racket below 3000 from Li-Ning. It is available at a price of ₹2990 on Amazon India.
Technologies Used
Dynamic Optimum Frame & Nano Power Technology
The dynamic Optimum Frame design offers an extended sweet spot for efficient attack. The effective binding of resin and carbon fiber done by Nano Power technology enhances the stability.
High tensile slim shaft
The incorporation of elastic material resists torsional deformation while enhancing rebound capabilities.
Compressed Groove Technology
This design around the racket frame reduces air resistance to swing the head-heavy racket effortlessly.
Pros
Lightweight: The racket is made from lightweight materials, reducing player fatigue and allowing for quicker, more agile movements.
Great smash power: The head-heavy profile boosts power for impactful smashes.
Good control: The design and technology of the racket provide improved control for precise shots.
High Flexibility: The racket’s flexibility allows for a wider range of shots and techniques.
Cons
Need to change demo strings: The strings that come with the Ignite 7 need to be replaced for improved performance (AEROBITE for control players and EXBOLT 65 for attackers).
YONEX Arcsaber 7 Play
| Weight | 83 grams (Avg.), 4U |
| Frame Material | Graphite |
| Shaft Material | Graphite |
| Balance | Even |
| Stiffness | Hi-Flex |
| String Tension | 19 – 27 lbs |
| Grip | G5 |
| Playing Level | Beginner/ Intermediate |
The Yonex ArcSaber 7 Play badminton racket stands out as an ideal option for both beginners and intermediate players. It is equipped with a built-in T-Joint and boasts a 10 mm longer frame compared to standard rackets, providing extended reach. Weighing an average of 83 grams (4U), it features an isometric head to enhance the sweet spot and a flexible shaft for effortless adaptation.
The Arcsaber frame is engineered to optimize the shuttle hold on the string bed, enhancing control. Featuring high flexibility and even balance, this racket delivers both power and swift control, catering to both singles and doubles play.
Technologies Used
Arcsaber Frame: The Arcsaber frame is carefully crafted with a stiffer construction at the top and bottom for added stability and power, while the middle section is designed to provide flexibility and control for enhanced consistency.
Isometric Head Shape: Equalizing the length of the main and cross strings in the string bed enlarges the sweet spot for consistent accuracy, even on off-center hits.
Box Frame: For stability and a solid feel while hitting shuttlecocks
Pros
Superior Control: The Arcsaber frame technology allows players to command the game with high-level control, maximizing the hold of the shuttle on the string bed for enhanced precision.
Impressive Power: The racket’s flexible shaft provides a powerful response, enabling players to deliver steep and fast smashes that can catch opponents off guard.
Consistent Precision: The isometric head shape equalizes the length of the main and cross strings in the string bed, enlarging the sweet spot for more consistent accuracy, even on off-center hits.
Versatility: The Yonex Arcsaber 7 Play is suitable for singles and doubles, making it a versatile choice for players of different game styles.
Cons
Limited Appeal to Advanced Players: While the racket is easy to play, it may not be exciting or challenging enough for advanced players who prefer a more complex play style.
Yonex Muscle Power 29 LT
| Weight | (85 – 89.9) grams (3U) |
| Frame Material | H. M. Graphite |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite |
| Balance | Even |
| Flexibility | Medium Flex |
| String Tension | 19 – 24 lbs |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Playing Level | Beginner/ Intermediate |
The Muscle Power 29 Lite, one of the most popular badminton rackets from Yonex, is perfect for intermediate players to hit powerful smashes by the full utilization of input energy from the string bed to the shuttlecock. This racquet is made with high-modulus graphite for better strength and more stability for your shots. Due to the good build quality, anti-deformation capabilities, and high performance both for offensive and defensive play that fulfills the needs of beginners/ intermediates, this Muscle Power 29 LT is a top choice below 3000 rupees in India.
Technologies Used
Muscle Power Technology
Yonex badminton rackets utilize Muscle Power technology to position the strings on rounded archways, effectively reducing stress load and fatigue through contact friction. This innovative design amplifies energy transfer into every shot, providing a wide range of delivery options.
Isometric Head
The Isometric head shape of a badminton racket equalizes the length of the main and cross strings, enlarging the sweet spot for more consistent accuracy even on off-center hits.
Pros
Superb Energy Transfer: The unity between string and frame optimizes energy transfer, providing powerful shots.
Great Control & Easy to Handle: The racket’s design gives a high amount of control and also makes it easy to maneuver.
Decreased Frame Deterioration: The Muscle Power technology helps to maintain the integrity of the frame.
High Durability: The racket shows minimal wear and tear even after regular use.
Cons
Not Good for Net Games: This racket may not be ideal when performing delicate net shots.
For more information, check my review on Yonex Muscle Power 29.
Yonex Astrox Smash
| Weight | (71 – 75) grams (F4) |
| Frame Material | Graphite + Tungsten |
| Shaft Material | Graphite + Nanomesh NEO |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Medium Flex |
| String Tension | 20 – 28 lbs |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Playing Level | Intermediate |
Yonex Astrox Smash is an ultra-lightweight, head-heavy racket that uses the rotational generator system to increase smash power with a steeper angle. The weight of the racquet is distributed throughout the frame top, T-joint, and grip. This helps for a smoother shot-making experience with rapid succession. With a reasonable price of ₹2799 on Amazon India, the Astrox Smash is one of the best badminton rackets under 3000 for players who want to dominate their opponents with powerful sharp smashes.
Technologies Used
Rotational Generator System: This technology evenly distributes weight in the racket, enhancing player shot control and power in rapid-fire rallies.
Graphite and Tungsten Frame: The frame of the Astrox Smash is composed of graphite and tungsten. This combination of materials provides durability and lighter weight, which improves maneuverability and speed.
NANOMESH NEO: This innovative adhesive combines graphite fiber with resin for a stronger, more flexible frame. This enhances shaft flexibility, energy transfer, and quick recovery for an attacking edge in badminton.
Aero + Box frame: For faster swing and stability of the racket
Pros
Featherweight Design: The ultralightweight (73 grams) of the Astrox Smash, makes it a lightweight choice for players.
Smash Power: The head-heavy balance generates power by concentrating mass towards the head for powerful shots.
Ideal for Less Experienced: This racket is a good option for recreational players to use their power and consistency.
Cons
Quality of Demo String: You may need to change the pre-strung low-tension strings to benefit from the full utilization.
For detailed information, check my review of the Yonex Astrox Smash racket.
Li-Ning Air Force 78 G2 Badminton Racket
| Weight | 78 grams |
| Frame Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Shaft Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Stiffness | Flexible |
| String Tension | ≤ 30 lbs |
| Grip | S1 |
| Playing Level | Intermediate |
The Li-Ning Air Force 78 G2 badminton racket is renowned for its superior performance and design. It is crafted from military-grade carbon fiber, ensuring high durability and super strength. The super lightweight head-heavy racket allows for faster swings and powerful smashes.
The Air Force 78 G2 also features an extended sweet spot for improved hit consistency and can support a string tension of up to 30 lbs. This racket seamlessly blends power, control, and comfort, making it a top choice for intermediate and experienced players.
Technologies Used
Dynamic Optimum Frame: This technology is an innovative design concept that extends the ‘sweet spot’ upwards, thus shifting the hitting point higher for increased power and accuracy.
Aerotec-Beam System: This design incorporates aerodynamics to minimize air resistance, resulting in faster swing speed.
TB-Nano Technology: This Li-Ning trademark technology enhances bonding between carbon fibers and resin, resulting in a 20% increase in racket strength. It prevents frame deformation and twisting, ensuring more stable and accurate shots.
Pros
Powerful: The ultra-lightweight head-heavy racket is good for powerful punch.
High Durability: The racket is built for super-strength and high longevity.
Eye-catching Looks: Its sleek, modern design gives an eye-catching appeal.
Cons
Not for Beginners: Decent skill is needed to handle this racket to avoid wrist pain
Badminton Racket Below 3000: Buying Guide
You should consider the crucial following factors for the selection of your badminton racket.
Weight
The weight of a badminton racket ranges from 70 – 100 grams. Singles players prefer heavier rackets for stability and power in their shots while lighter rackets are suitable for doubles players for quick reaction close to the net.
Material
- Aluminum, Steel: Heavy and rigid but cost-effective.
- Graphite, Carbon fiber: Costly but lighter and flexible
Balance
The balance of a racket is the weight distribution concerning the center point.
- Head Heavy: A head-heavy racket gives you more power in your shots. These rackets are best for longer rallies behind the court.
- Head Light: With less reaction time, a head-light racket is suitable for a quick exchange of strokes.
- Even-balance: These types of rackets are suitable for any style of play, offensive, or defensive.
Shaft Flexibility
- Players with quick arm speed get the best result with power and control from a stiff shaft.
- A stiff shaft gives more control and returns of shots are also faster.
- A flexible shaft gives easy access to power with the sacrifice of control of shuttle placement.
- Flexible shafts are good for defense.
String Tension
As the string tension increases, the sweet spot reduces. With lower string tension, the hitting area on the string bed becomes concentrated with more power and control.
Head Shape
- Isometric Head: The squarish string bed with a nearly equal area of vertical and horizontal strings gives the enlarged sweet spot.
- Oval Head: Less sweet spot but more control of shuttlecock over a concentrated area
Grip Size
When choosing a badminton racket, the grip size is crucial. A larger grip requires more arm involvement, while a smaller grip allows for quicker wrist action. If unsure, opt for a smaller grip and add an overgrip to increase the size if needed.
How to Care for Your Badminton Racquet
- Checking of string
- Don’t restring beyond the maximum limit. It will break the racquet frame.
- Keep your racket away from heat
- Changing of grips at regular intervals
- Take proper care of grommets
- After the play, always keep the racket inside the cover to avoid damage.
I have tried hard to give you insight into the best badminton rackets under 3000 rupees in India. If anything is left, please let me know by giving your valuable feedback in the comment box below. Thanks for continuing till the last.
Related:
- 18 Best Badminton Rackets in India [2024] to Uplift Your Game
- Top 12 Best Badminton Racket Under 2000 In India
- 5 Best Badminton Rackets Under 5000 (2024): Top Performers
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
