Why are you looking for the best badminton rackets? Simply because you have the love and passion for this wonderful game and want to overpower your opponent with the favor of a quality racquet. Sounds right! Yes, though building skills is the most important part of the game, a top-quality badminton racket always comes as an ‘X’ factor to decide the end result of a match.
Each badminton equipment manufacturing industry, like Yonex, Li-Ning, and Victor always tries to impress the world by releasing more technologically advanced products. Every company speaks only the good things about their equipment. This makes it quite confusing to pick the best one according to your needs from a bunch of 100 or even 200 badminton rackets.
So what I have tried to do in this article is to make your selection procedure simpler. I have picked the 18 top racquets available in India and presented a detailed review of each one including its advantages and disadvantages. Also, in the end, I have added a buying guide to make things easier for selection.
So here are the 18 best badminton rackets in India.
| Rank | Racket Name | Brand | Playing Level |
| 1 | Astrox 99 | Yonex | Advanced |
| 2 | Voltric Z Force II | Yonex | Advanced |
| 3 | Nanoflare 800 | Yonex | Advanced |
| 4 | Astrox 100 ZZ | Yonex | Advanced |
| 5 | Duora 10 | Yonex | Advanced |
| 6 | Brave Sword 12 | Victor | Beginner/ Intermediate/ Advanced |
| 7 | Jet Speed S 12-F | Victor | Beginner/ Intermediate/ Advanced |
| 8 | Windstorm 72 | Li-Ning | Intermediate/ Advanced |
| 9 | Arcsaber 11 Pro | Yonex | Intermediate/ Advanced |
| 10 | Astrox 88D Game | Yonex | Intermediates |
| 11 | Astrox 88S Game | Yonex | Intermediates |
| 12 | Air Force 77 | Li-Ning | Intermediate/ Advanced |
| 13 | Astrox Smash | Yonex | Beginner/ Intermediate |
| 14 | Muscle Power 29 Light | Yonex | Beginner/ Intermediate |
| 15 | Nanoray Light 18i | Yonex | Beginner/ Intermediate |
| 16 | Wind Light 700 | Li-Ning | Intermediate/ Advanced |
| 17 | Z-Ziggler | Apacs | Intermediate |
| 18 | G-Force Superlite | Li-Ning | Beginner/ Intermediate |
Best Badminton Rackets in India: Top Picks
| Best For Power | Yonex Voltric Z Force II |
| Best For Speed | Nanoflare 800 |
| Best For Control | Arcsaber 11 Pro |
| Best Overall | Yonex Astrox 99 Pro |
| Best For Beginner | Yonex Nanoray Light 18i |
| Best Value For Money | Apacs Z-Ziggler |
Best Badminton Rackets in India: Comparison Sheet
Best Yonex Badminton Rackets Reviews
Yonex Astrox 99
| Weight | (80 – 84.9 grams) 4U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite + NAMD + Nanometric + Tungsten |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite + NAMD |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Stiff |
| String Tension | 20 – 28 lbs |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Playing Level | Advanced |
| Price | Out of Stock |
Yonex Astrox 99, the choice of many top badminton players, is the first racket that capitalizes on the utility of the innovative NAMD material not only in the shaft but also in the frame. It helps in two ways. First, At the time of impact, the enhanced flexibility imparts extra momentum to the shuttlecock for increased smash power. Second, the racket stiffens back quickly which helps faster recovery for a quick exchange of drives, and easy net kill.
Another advantage is the implementation of the Rotational Generator System which gives steeper and sharper smashes. Also, the effective utilization of mass distribution at the frame top, joint area, and grip end help a smoother transition from one shot to another shot. The 6.9 mm hi-tensile super slim shaft cuts easily through the air resulting in more power on your smash shots.
Yonex Astrox 99 is one of the best badminton rackets in India that capitalizes on both power and fast racket handling. Yonex Ultimax BG 66 or Aerobite string will be best suited to this racket depending on your nature of play.
Pros
- Massive power on smashes
- Good control
- Fast racket handling
Cons
- Not for beginners
Note: The Astrox 99 is not currently available. Among the recently launched four Yonex Astrox 99 models, the most advanced is the Astrox 99 Pro. The Astrox 99 Tour is a closely related but slightly cheaper variant of the Astrox 99 Pro model. The Astrox 99 Game is a budget-oriented and easy-to-play variant of the Astrox 99 Pro racket. The last is the Astrox 99 Play, the racket that offers value for money and is highly recommended for intermediate players.
Yonex Voltric Z Force II/ Best Badminton Racket for Power
| 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 |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Playing Level | Advanced |
| Price | ₹11999 |
Yonex Voltric Z Force 2, top of the line of the Voltric series, 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 consisting of a relatively smaller head with tungsten-infused grommets and a 6.9 mm slim shaft. This combination of the Tri Voltage System and aerodynamic shape (less air resistance) of the frame brings explosive smash power with speedy racket handling.
The Voltric Z Force is an outstanding badminton racket for advanced and professional players of massive power, easy 3rd line clear, crisp drive, and good netplay. Beginners should stay away from using this powerful weapon, otherwise, it may bring sore shoulders or elbow joints.
Pros
- Explosive power on smashes
- Quick and improved racket handling
- Good control
- Pre-strung with BG 65
Cons
- Suitable for singles
Yonex Nanoflare 800/ Best Badminton Racket for Speed
| Weight | (80 – 84.9) grams (4U) |
| Frame Material | HM Graphite + M40X + EX-HMG |
| Shaft Material | HM Graphite + NANOMETRIC |
| Balance | Head Light |
| Flexibility | Stiff |
| String Tension | 20 – 28 lbs |
| Grip | G5 (3.125”) |
| Playing Level | Advanced |
| Price | ₹11980 |
The Nanoflare 800, truly named, ‘Rapid Fire, the art of Speed’ is the most advanced racket of the Nanoflare series. This head-light racquet has been designed with many innovative technologies to get extreme speed and power. The Razor frame has been made considerably slick to minimize air resistance, while the inclusion of Nanometric technology has made the shaft slimmer (6.8 mm diameter) and stiffer. This combination of frame and shaft has made a lightning-fast racket with high repulsion power.
Yonex Nanoflare 800, one of the best badminton rackets in India, is highly popular among the top professional players.
Pros
- Excellent for quick rallies
- Easy to generate power using swing speed
- Great for deep drop shots that almost touch the net
- Great for doubles play
Cons
- Costly
- Only for advanced players
- Not for beginners
YONEX Astrox 100 ZZ / Best for Singles and Doubles
| 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 |
| Grip | G5 (3.00”) |
| Playing Level | Advanced |
| Price | ₹14999 |
Yonex Astrox 100 ZZ, launched in March 2020, has a solid carbon core shaft that has been used for the first time in any Yonex racket instead of a hollow shaft. The solid shaft’s extra stiffness and head-heavy balance allow players to hit hard smashes one after another. Also, the shaft used in the Astrox 100 ZZ is the slimmest that Yonex has produced ever. The 6.2 mm hi-tensile slim shaft reduces the air resistance by 11.5% for lightning-fast swings.
Like the Astrox 99, this racquet also has the benefits of smash power and faster recovery by adding the new innovative NAMD material both in the shaft and frame. The inclusion of the Black Micro Core material in the top frame dampens vibrations for a solid feel and enhanced stability.
It is a flagship racket 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
- Excellent smash power
- Good control and accuracy
- Great for quick drives, drops, and clear shots
- Suitable both for singles and doubles
Cons
Also Read: “10 Best Badminton Racket Under 10000 in 2023 (Compared)“
Yonex Duora 10
| Weight | (85 – 89.9 grams) 3U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite + Nanometric DR + Nickel-Titanium Fiber |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite + Nanometric |
| Balance | Even |
| Flexibility | Stiff |
| String Tension | 19 – 26 lbs |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Playing Level | Advanced |
| Price | Out-of-Stock |
Yonex Duora 10 is an evenly balanced badminton racket with a dual optimum frame concept. The forehand side frame has a box-shaped design. The other side of the frame, i.e. the backhand side has an aero-shaped design. Two improved materials, Nanometric DR, and Ni-Ti fiber are used on the forehand side and the backhand side respectively. The motto of this design is to provide power on forehand shots and quick repulsion on the backhand side.
The area where this balanced racket shines is the adaptability of different kinds of shots. The stiff shaft along with the box frame gives you strong smashes. The drives are very good. Clears are also easy, much like the Z-Force II. Actually, the Duora 10 gives you wide coverage on the court with its versatile nature.
Pros
- Good smash power
- Good control and accuracy
- Large sweet spot
- Great balanced racket, both for singles and doubles
Cons
- Not for beginners
YONEX Arcsaber 11 Pro/ Best Badminton Racket for Control
| Weight | (80 – 84.9 grams) 4U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite + Pocketing Booster |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite + Ultra PEF + Super HMG |
| Balance | Even Balanced |
| Flexibility | Stiff |
| String Tension | 20 – 27 lbs |
| Grip | G5 (3.00”) |
| Playing Level | Intermediate and Advanced |
| Price | ₹16330 |
Yonex Arcsaber 11 Pro is the best choice when you need a racket for control-oriented aggression. The Neo CS Carbon Nanotube material in the frame increases the flexibility and repulsion power. The Pocketing Booster, a rubber-like elastic material adds flexibility for more to the repulsion power and also gives a clear hitting sound.
The Ultra PE Fiber in the shaft maximizes the shock absorption capacity. It gives good feelings when hitting smashes.
Pros
- Best for stability and control
- Highly Durable
- Great for all-round play
- Good for both singles and doubles
Cons
- High price
Also Read: “5 Best Badminton Rackets Under 5000 (2023): Top Performers“
Yonex Astrox 88D Game
| Weight | (80 – 84.9 grams) 4U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite + Volume Cut Resin + Tungsten |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite + Nanomesh Neo |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | 20 – 28 lbs |
| Grip | G5 (3.00”) |
| Playing Level | Intermediate |
| Price | ₹6092 |
The Astrox 88D Game (D for Dominate) is specially designed to dominate from the backcourt in doubles play. The special feature of the 88D Game is the unique flex point at the middle of the frame. This gives extra power and depth to your smashes. With effortless clears and deceptive drops, the Astrox 88D Game has all the good things to play from the backcourt. The 10 mm longer shaft also adds more power to your shots.
The frame is made with high-modulus graphite, tungsten, and Volume Cut Resin. Volume Cut Resin is a special kind of material that provides perfect adhesion with graphite for power, stability, and weight-to-strength ratio. The Nanomesh Neo increases the shaft flexibility to maximize power.
The head-heavy Astrox 88D Game is a great option for intermediates to play doubles with perfect satisfaction.
Pros
- Excellent for doubles
- Powerful smashes
- Easy clears and precise drop shots
- Larger sweet spot
Cons
- Little slower for quick exchange of drives
Yonex Astrox 88S Game Badminton Racket
| Weight | (80 – 84.9 grams) 4U |
| Frame Material | H.M. Graphite + Volume Cut Resin + Tungsten |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite + Nanomesh Neo |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | 20 – 28 lbs |
| Grip | G5 (3.00”) |
| Playing Level | Intermediate |
| Price | ₹5499 |
The Astrox 88S Game, the perfect pair of his twin brother 88D Game, is designed to play from the frontcourt. As a forecourt player in doubles, you need accuracy and precision to create opportunities for your partner for a perfect finish. The 88S Game (S for Skill) does that perfectly with delicate net drops and perfect placement.
The flex point of the 88S Game is near the T-joint. Due to the enhanced flexibility, the shuttlecock stays for a more extended period on the string bed during impact. The extra time allows you to bring perfection to the shuttle’s placement. The 5 mm longer shaft is the perfect balance between power and accuracy.
Pros
- Excellent for doubles
- Fast racket swing
- Good for drives and net drops
Cons
- Littler sacrifice on smash power
Yonex Astrox Smash Badminton Racket
| Weight | (71 – 75) grams (F) |
| Frame Material | H. M. Graphite + Tungsten |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite + Nanomesh Neo |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | 20 – 28 lbs |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Playing Level | Beginner/ Intermediate |
| Price | ₹2299 |
Yonex Astrox Smash is an ultra-lightweight racket that suits the need at the beginner’s level both for singles and doubles play. This head-heavy racquet is boosted with Yonex’s famous Astrox technology for good sharp smashes. Also, the inclusion of Nanomesh Neo in the shaft material increases flexibility and strength for quick repulsion power. With a budget-friendly price, the Astrox Smash serves great for developing players as a transition racket for the upliftment to the next level.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Steeper and sharper smashes
- Easy maneuverability
Cons
- Thinner strings like Yonex BG 80P needed for good smash power
Also Read: “Top 7 Best Badminton Rackets Under 3000: 2024 Review“
Yonex Muscle Power 29 Light
| Weight | (80 – 84.9) grams (4U) |
| Frame Material | H. M. Graphite |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite |
| Balance | Even |
| Flexibility | Slightly Flexible |
| String Tension | 20 – 30 lbs |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Playing Level | Beginner/ Intermediate |
| Price | ₹3100 |
This popular badminton racket is designed with muscle power frame technology to minimize the friction between the frame and strings for effective utilization of their performance. The Muscle Power 29 Light is made with hi-modulus graphite which makes the racket strong and sturdy. At the intermediate or even beginner’s level, this is a very good badminton racket for easy 3rd line clears, powerful smashes, and precise drop shots.
Pros
- Good smash power
- Good build quality
- Great value for money
Cons
- To get the smash power, restringing is required
Yonex Nanoray Light 18i/ Best Badminton Racquet for Beginners
| Weight | (75 – 79.9) grams (5U) |
| Frame Material | H. M. Graphite |
| Shaft Material | H.M. Graphite |
| Balance | Head Light |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | 20 – 30 lbs |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Playing Level | Beginner/ Intermediate |
| Price | ₹1799 |
Yonex Nanoray Light 18i is a full graphite badminton racket with aero + box frame technology for faster swing and stability. This head-light racket is engineered with Nanoscience technology to stiffen the shaft for more repulsion power. The Nanoray Light 18i, one of the top-selling badminton rackets in India, is good for fast exchange of drives, drop shots, or playing loose shots close to the net.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Fast racket handling
- Good for a balanced game
- Great for doubles
Cons
- Arm power is needed for heavy smashes
Best Li-Ning Badminton Rackets
Li-Ning Windstorm 72
| Weight | 72 grams (W1) |
| Frame Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Shaft Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Balance | Highly Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Flexible |
| String Tension | ≤ 30 lbs |
| Grip | S1 (3.00”) |
| Playing Level | Advanced |
| Price | ₹9990 |
Li-Ning Windstorm 72 features the famous superlight technology to make a featherlight racket of 72 grams. This technically improved Li-Ning racquet bears the flagship of speed and control.
If you look at the technologies, this racket uses the combination of the UHB shaft (for high flexibility) and the Aerotec beam system that minimizes air resistance to an extreme extent. Also, the TB Nano Powertec technology holds the carbon fibers tighter to give strength and rigidity without increasing the overall weight.
To make more effective use of speed, the racket is made with head-heavy technology for an extra punch to your shots. In a nutshell, the Windstorm 72 is for those who prefer a lightweight racket with excellent swing speed to dominate not only from the frontcourt but also from the backcourt.
Pros
- Superlight racket
- Good blend of power and control
- Excellent for defensive play
Cons
- Not suitable for beginners
Related Topic: “11 Best Badminton Racket Under 4000 (Compared) 2023“
Li-Ning Air Force 77
| Weight | 77 grams (W1) |
| Frame Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Shaft Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | 22 – 30 lbs |
| Grip | S1 (3.125”) |
| Playing Level | Intermediate/ Advanced |
| Price | ₹2990 |
The Air Force 77 from the Chinese company, Li-Ning is a combination of many innovative technologies, like TB Nano, Wings Stabilizer, and Aerotec Beam system. This helps to bring smash power and fast racket handling. The additional benefit is the minimization of the frame vibration to deliver the next shot with precision and perfection.
Pros
- Power with precision
- Lightweight
- Strong and durable
- Value for money
Cons
- The quality of the racket is not up to the mark
Li-Ning Wind Lite 700 Badminton Racket
| Weight | 78 grams (W1) |
| Frame Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Shaft Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Flexible |
| String Tension | ≤ 30 lbs |
| Grip | S2 (3.25”) |
| Playing Level | Intermediate/ Advanced |
| Price | ₹2989 |
The Wind Lite 700 features Li-Ning’s Wind Lite technology, an economical version of the famous Windstorm technology which makes it lightweight for better handling. The 7.0 mm high tensile slim shaft helps to add extra punch to your shots at the last moment. While the head-heavy racket is good for smashing, the tighter strings give you good command over control.
Pros
- Easy to adapt
- Lightweight
- It can be used both for singles and doubles
- Value for money
Cons
- The racket cover is not good
Also Read:
- “Top 12 Best Badminton Racket Under 2000 In India“
- “10 Best Badminton Racket Under 1500 in India [2023]“
Li-Ning G-Force Superlite
| Weight | 78 grams (W1) |
| Frame Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Shaft Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Balance | Head Heavy |
| Flexibility | Flexible |
| String Tension | ≤ 30 lbs |
| Grip | S1 (3.125”) |
| Playing Level | Beginner/ Intermediate |
| Price | ₹1889 |
Li-Ning G-Force Superlite 3500 is built with strong military-grade carbon fiber material. This lightweight racquet uses some innovative technologies like Dynamic Optimum frame for the more hitting area, and Aerotec Beam System for cutting the air resistance. The 7 mm hi-tensile slim shaft effectively balances the rebound and anti-torsional properties. This is a head-heavy badminton racket that brings good smash power but you should keep the string tension within 24-26 lbs to avoid occasional string damage.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Good for smash
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- Average racket cover
Best Victor Badminton Rackets
Brave Sword 12
| Weight | (85 – 89.9 grams) 3U/ (80 – 84.9 grams) 4U |
| Frame Material | Ultra H.M. Graphite + Nano Resin |
| Shaft Material | Ultra H.M. Graphite + Nano Resin + 7.0 shaft |
| Balance | Even |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | ≤ 30 lbs, ≤ 28 lbs |
| Grip | G5 (3.00”) |
| Playing Level | Beginner/ Intermediate/ Advanced |
| Price | ₹14900 |
The Brave Sword 12 from Victor, an all-time hit, is the choice of many top-level players. It comes with an option for 2 weight categories, 3U and 4U. It is an evenly balanced, medium-flex racket. The strength and durability of the BS 12 are enhanced by the inclusion of Nano Resin particles in the vacant space of carbon fibers.
The main attraction of the Brave Sword 12 is the fast swing speed and easy maneuverability. The diamond-shaped aerodynamic frame behaves like a sword. It cuts through the air easily with a 10% reduction in air resistance.
The BS 12 is one of the best badminton rackets in India that is fast, easy to use and does very well for a balanced type of racket. The user-friendly racquet is suitable for all levels of players, from beginners to advanced, for any kind of game, i.e. singles or doubles.
Pros
- Very fast and easy to maneuver
- Great for doubles
- Excellent defense, easy to return hard smashes
- Effortless clears, precise and accurate drop shots
Cons
- Not best for offensive play
VICTOR Jet Speed S 12-F
No products found.
| Weight | (85 – 89.9 grams) 3U/ (80 – 84.9 grams) 4U |
| Frame Material | High Resilient Modulus Graphite + TERS + Hard Cored Technology |
| Shaft Material | High Resilient Modulus Graphite + PYROFIL + TERS + 6.8 SHAFT |
| Balance | Even (Towards Head Light) |
| Flexibility | Medium |
| String Tension | ≤ 30 lbs (3U), ≤ 29 lbs (4U) |
| Grip | G5 (3.00”) |
| Playing Level | Beginner/ Intermediate/ Advanced |
| Price | ₹16900 |
The Jet Speed S 12 F (Fast) is the lightest version in the JS S 12 series. This is a newly designed racket from Victor which is based on Aero + Sword frame technology for maximizing the speed. The “F” version is inclined towards a lighter head which further increases speed to another level.
The introduction of TERS (Twin Epoxy Resin System), an aerospace-level material, increases frame elasticity and shaft flexibility. The new addition of multi-layer structured Hard Cored Technology enhances the feel of the racket. Another innovative material, Pyrofil improves the shock absorption capacity of this racket. The new JS S 12F is for those who want maximum speed with speedy handling.
Pros
- Good control for a fast racket
- Effortless clear and lobs
- Excellent net kills
- Excellent for frontcourt and midcourt play
Cons
- High Price
Related Topic: “The 5 Best Badminton Rackets Under 7000 in 2023“
Best Apacs Badminton Rackets
Apacs Z-Ziggler
| 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 |
| Grip | G4 (3.25”) |
| Playing Level | Intermediate |
| Price | ₹2200 |
The Z-Ziggler from Apacs Sports, a racket of value for money, has a very good price-performance ratio with many great features. This head-heavy racket aims for those players who want instant access to power without sacrificing control.
The design of this racket is based on the Triple Speed Platform, which gives good power in smashes, fast racket swing, and control. The thin shaft with a smaller compact head cuts through the air easily giving more momentum to the shuttlecock at the time of impact. To enhance the durability and performance of the string, there is a single-passing grommet system with an increased number of holes in the frame.
Pros
- Good for smashes
- Good control
- Great value for money
Cons
- The quality of the racket cover is not good
Also Read: “Top 6 Best Badminton String for Smashing in 2023“
Which are the Best Badminton Racket Brands?
In the badminton equipment industry, there are some top-class manufacturers like Yonex, Li-Ning, Victor, Apacs, and Ashaway. Among the best badminton racket brands, the name, Yonex comes first. Yonex is way ahead for the no. 1 spot with the continuous improvement of the quality of products for the last 60 years. Yonex is known as the king of badminton.
Yonex
Yonex, a Japan-based company, founded in 1946, first started manufacturing wooden badminton racquets in the year 1957. With the help of innovative technologies, improved materials, and skilled Japanese craftsmanship, Yonex has slowly become a front-runner in the badminton equipment industry within a few years.
Some examples of Yonex’s famous technologies are ‘Tri Voltage System’, ‘Nanometric Technology’, and ‘Rotational Generator System”. Yonex also holds the proprietary of the trademark ISOMETRIC technology. Kento Momota, Lin Dan, and Saina Nehwal are some of the top badminton players whom Yonex sponsors.
| Yonex Racket Series | Specialty |
| Voltric | Explosive Power |
| Astrox | Sharp and Steep Attack |
| Nanoflare | Rapid Fire |
| Nanoray | Lightning Speed |
| Duora | Dual Impact |
| Arcsaber | High Control |
Li-Ning
Li-ning, a China-based sports goods company was founded in the year 1990 by Li Ning, ‘the prince of gymnastics’. Initially, the motive for launching this company was to provide brand-name clothing to Chinese athletes in the Olympics.
Though it is a relatively new company, the successful application of new technologies helps this company to become a close rival of Yonex in the badminton racket industry. Li-Ning’s products not only offer the highest quality but are also affordable too. Some top Indian players, like Kidambi Srikanth, and P.V. Sindhu are sponsored by this famous Chinese company.
| L-Ning Racket Series | Specialty |
| Windstorm | Fast racket speed |
| Aeronaut | Better Control |
| Turbo Charging | Aerodynamic efficiency |
| Caliber | Maximum power |
| Tectonic | Maximum recovery time |
Victor
Victor, founded in 1968, is a well-known reputed brand in the badminton industry. This Taiwan-based manufacturing company has centers in 60 countries in the world. Victor is the official sponsor of the Korean National Team and the equipment supplier of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
| Victor Racket Series | Specialty |
| Hypernano | Precision & Control |
| Thruster | Maximum Power |
| Jet Speed | Aerodynamic Speed |
| Auraspeed | Power & Speed |
| Brave Sword | Speed & Accuracy |
Badminton Racket Buying Guide
In a broader sense, the selection of a badminton racket depends on 4 factors.
- Playing Style: Offensive, Defensive, or All-rounder
- Playing Level: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced
- Brand Preference: Yonex, Li-Ning, Victor, and many others
- Price: Low, Medium, or High
Based on the 4 factors, you should consider the following characteristics of a badminton racket to match your playing level and style.
Balance
Probably, it is the most important factor in the selection of a racket. Depending upon the location of the center of gravity, the balance of a racket is of three types.
- Head Heavy: The center of gravity is shifted towards the head, i.e. more mass at the head end.
- Head Light: Just opposite to Head Heavy, i.e. more mass towards the handle end.
- Even Balanced: Mass is concentrated at the center location, i.e. 285 – 290 mm from the bottom of the racket handle.
| Head Heavy | Head Light |
| More Power | Less Power |
| Less Control | More Control |
| Suitable for Singles | Suitable for Doubles |
Weight
The weight of badminton rackets is related to power and movement. A heavyweight racket gives you more power, whereas a lightweight racket is easier to swing.
The below chart represents the categorization of weight (U→ Yonex, W→ Li-Ning) of a badminton racket.
| F(W1) | 5U(W1) | 4U(W2) | 3U(W3) | 2U | U |
| 70 – 74.9 gm | 75 – 79.9 gm | 80 – 84.9 gm | 85 – 89.9 gm | 90 – 94.9 gm | 95 – 100 gm |
⮜================== Speed Power =====================⮞
(Suitable for Doubles) (Suitable for Singles)
Most rackets fall in the 4U or 3U category to get power without compromising speed. Beginners should start with lighter rackets before moving up to heavier ones.
Shaft Flexibility
The flexibility of a shaft (Flexible, Medium-flex, Stiff) has a major role in the selection of a badminton racket.
| Flexible Shaft | Stiff Shaft |
| 1. Easy access to power | 1. Arm power is needed to induce power |
| 2. Less control and accuracy | 2. More control and accuracy |
| 3. Return shots are slower | 3. Return shots are faster |
| 4. Less potential for power | 4. High potential of power |
| 5. Suitable for beginners and intermediates | 5. Suitable for intermediate and advanced players |
String Tension
There is a misconception that higher string tension results in more power. But in reality, slacker strings give you more power due to a larger deflection during the impact with a shuttlecock.
| Tighter String | Slacker String |
| Less Repulsive Power | More Repulsive Power |
| More Control | Less Control |
| More prone to damage | Less prone to damage |
| Suitable for advanced players (≥ 26 lbs) | For beginners/ intermediates (18-26) lbs |
Grip Size
The grip size depends on personal preference. A smaller grip size involves more wrist/ finger actions whereas a bigger grip size gives better access to arm power. The standardization of grip sizes for Yonex and Victor are
- G1: 4”
- G2: 3.75”
- G3: 3.5”
- G4: 3.25”
- G5: 3.00”
- G6: 2.75”
The most common grips for badminton rackets are G4 and G5. It is always recommended to opt for a slightly lower grip as there will be always an option to use an overgrip.
Head Shape
| Isometric | Oval |
| Larger sweet spot | Smaller sweet spot |
| More forgiving | Less forgiving |
| Easy to hit over an enlarged area | More power and control over a concentrated area |
| For beginners/ intermediates | For advanced players |
Apart from the above factors, the type of material used (Al, carbon fiber, or graphite), Brand Preference (Yonex, Li-Ning, and others), and Price (your budget, the most important one) have an influential role in the final selection.
Also Read:
- “8 Best Badminton Rackets for Beginners 2023 in India“
- “5 Best Badminton Rackets for Intermediate Players in India, 2023“
- “Top 10 Best Badminton Racket Under 1000 In India“
- “The 7 Best Badminton Rackets Under 2500 in 2023 (Compared)“
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the sweet spot in badminton?
The sweet spot is the area around the center of the string bed where you will get maximum power, the best feeling, and the least vibration to hit the shuttlecock most effectively. The area of the sweet spot depends on the head shape. The squarish isometric head gives you a larger sweet spot than a conventional oval-shaped racket.
2. What is the highest tension in badminton?
The highest string tension of a badminton racket is 38 lbs, most common in the Apacs series rackets.
3. Is higher string tension good in badminton?
The recommended string tension depends on your level of playing. At higher tension, you get better control and feeling but the downside is the smaller sweet spot and the durability issue of strings. Higher tension above 26 lbs is only recommended for advanced players who have the techniques and capabilities to get maximum power with better accuracy.
4. Are lighter badminton rackets better?
Though lighter rackets lack momentum for power, these rackets are good for control and easier to handle. Beginners should start with a lightweight badminton racket (preferably 4U category) to avoid shoulder and elbow injury.
5. How much does a good badminton racket cost?
The definition of a good or bad racket varies from player to player. What is good to me, maybe worse to you. It solely depends on your style of play and playing level.
There is a huge difference in price between entry-level and high-end rackets. Expensive rackets are made with superior materials and innovative technologies. These rackets are generally more aerodynamic and have the potential to give massive power. But they are meant for experts who have the right techniques and exposure to extract the best from costly racquets. Beginners can get little benefit from expensive rackets. Rather the extra advantage makes them lazy about the development of footwork and techniques in the early stages. A reasonably priced quality racket, like the Nanoray Light 18i, will make things better for them.
Wrapping Up
I have tried my best to give you an overview of the top rackets available in India at present. Now it’s your turn. What are your views? Which one is your choice? Is anything missing? Please let me know by leaving a comment.
Thank you for continuing till the end.
Related Topic:
- “Top 8 Best Badminton Rackets for Smash in 2023“
- “Top 10 Best Badminton Rackets for Doubles in 2023“
- “The 5 Best Head Heavy Badminton Rackets (Value for Money)“
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Very good info
Thanks