15 Best Badminton Rackets

Whether you’re a professional badminton player or you just enjoy playing for fun, having the right racket is important. If you’re a serious badminton player you’ll know that a racket with the right grip, shape, and weight can help you get one up on the competition.

A competitive edge can make all the difference. If you just play for fun, having a comfortable racket that is easy to use is equally as important.

Because each player is different, one racket doesn’t necessarily fit all. Different rackets are made in consideration of different types of players.

Some are designed with features for beginners whilst others have an added edge for the pro players. With the racket being the most important piece of badminton equipment, it’s critical to choose a racket that suits all of your needs.

But, with so many brands to choose from and features to distinguish from, it can be difficult to find the right one. 

We know how important it is to find a racket that you can use again and again but it still feels new. So we’ve put together a guide of the 15 best badminton rackets to help you make an informed decision on the right racket for you.

The following will include reviews of the best rackets, all the information you need to help you find the right racket, and a selection of frequently asked questions.

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

15 Best Badminton Rackets Reviews

Yonex Nanoray Light 18i Graphite

The Yonex Nanoray Light is ideal for a frequent player at an intermediate level. This graphite ratchet is lightweight and its high tension is perfect for a sharp, agile player. This racket is a great choice for playing midcourt as its power and response make it a great racket for defense. 

This super lightweight racket is a great choice for a defensive player. It has a great response to movement. Its lightweight allows for complete control. It is the perfect racket for power smashes. 

With just the right amount of stiffness, the Yonex Nanoray Light 18i plays well with both a plastic and feather shuttle.

Pros:

• Graphite – sturdy frame and shaft material for stability 
• 30lbs string tension – high string tension for repulsion
• Built-in T joint – more increased stability

Cons: 

• Normal cover

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Arcsaber 11

The Yonex Arcsaber 11 is an ideal racket for beginners and players at an intermediate level. Not only is it easy to use, but it also comes with improved repulsion making movement smoother. This racket is best for playing in the midcourt as its powerful features make it ideal for defending and attacking.

Unlike the Yonex Nanaroy Light 18i, this racket is made from a neo-CS carbon nanotube. This material offers great flexibility, durability, and repulsion power. This is a great racket for getting those powerful and controlled shots.

With a sonic metal frame, this racket provides an added bite to the shuttlecock. Its frame material offers high repulsion power and rapid-fire return which is great for an attack. 

Pros:

• Neo CS carbon nanotube – provides added bite to the shuttlecock 
• Sonic metal – increases the ability to deliver a high repulsion, rapid-fire return, smash
• 20-25lbs – high string tension for durability and repulsion power
• Control support cap – for enhanced grip 

Cons:

• Smash power could be stronger

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Voltric Z Force 2

The Yonex Voltric Z Force 2 slices through the air with no problem. Its super-slim, balanced weight and heavy head make for a powerful shot with fast swing demand. This racket is ideal for a more advanced player.

With a balanced weight at the top of the frame and the joint area, this racket is easy to handle and holds its power.

The racket’s slim construction and control support cap with a wide and flat surface ensure its easy-grip with a fast and smooth following through allowing for sharp maneuverability. 

With a host of powerful features, this racket performs well on all sides of the badminton court. 

Pros:

• Heavy head – allows for good handling while also maintaining power
• Control support cap – wide, flat surface for easier grip, fast follow-through, and sharp maneuverability 
• Balanced weight – air resistance is minimized by including the tip of the grommet inside the frame allowing for a smooth swing

Cons:

• Playing fast can reduce the control a player has over the racket

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Voltric 0.5DG Blend

The Yonex Voltric 0.5DG’s slim shaft and lightweight offer control, speed, and ultimate power shots. This racket is ideal for intermediate to experienced level players and best used for attacking and smashing. 

The Yonex Voltric 0.5DG is crafted with a tri-voltage system with added weight at the top of the racket frame. This enables the player to increase their hitting power and deliver strong returns.

Its thin frame is designed for flexibility and enables the player to deliver powerful shots as it allows the head of the racket to transfer more energy to the shuttle. 

Pros:

• Tri-voltage system – for increased hitting power
• 35lbs string tension – high tension support for enhanced repulsion 
• Slim shaft – for enhanced control, speed, and power 
• Control support cap – for tension support
• Lightweight – enables quick reflex against quick shots 

Cons:

• Strong tension could be higher

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Voltric 5

Packed with incredible features, the Yonex Voltric 5 is ideal for intermediate players looking to increase power and speed at the front of the court. 

Made with a tri-voltage system, the racket offers esteemed handling and power which is excellent for defensive players.

Its lightweight design makes it easy to play for longer periods without wrist strain. But its heavy head makes for powerful smashes and maneuverability for quick responses. 

Pros:

• Tri-voltage system for racket handling and power – balances weight throughout the racket head
• Thin frame at the base and sides – for fast swing and 
• Stiff structure at the top of the racket – maximizes power
• Medium flex – for control and stability  
• Head heavy racket – perfect for smashes as it increases power and maneuverability 
• Tight string tension – delivers quick returns and enables players to gain control during drops and placements 

Cons:

• The head may be a little too light for some players 

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Astrox 7

The Yonex Astrox 7 possesses great balance and power for stunning your opponent. This lightweight racket is ideal for intermediate-level players and is excellent for attacking.

Made with a built-in T joint, this racket ensures flexibility, stability, and superior repulsion for dodging those strong shots. 

With a well-balanced, heavy head, this racket is great for powerful smashes as it is easy to maneuver. This feature enables quick returns and for a high amount of power to be directed toward the shuttle making it ideal for both attacking and defending. 

Pros:

• Graphite – lightweight, great for swift reaction
• Head heavy – ideal for smashes and quick returns as it is easy to maneuver and enables max power to be directed toward the shuttle
• Well balanced – helps with control and increasing speed, precision, and power
• Built-in T joint – for flexibility, stability, and repulsion 

Cons:

• Thick frame

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Astrox FB

The Yonex Astrox FB is lightweight and easy to swing. This sturdy racket is ideal for beginners as it provides support in increasing control and power. Its powerful features also make it an ideal racket for intermediate players who are looking for something swift but supportive. 

With tungsten-infused grommets, this racket is great for maximizing the contact time between the shuttle and bed for a quick response to an attack. A control support cap simultaneously provides a wide, flat surface for fast flow-through and maneuverability. 

The Yonex Astrox FBs’ tri-voltage system ensures that the frame flexes in a controlled way that enables the racket to transfer maximum power from the strings to the shuttle. 

Pros:

• Tungsten infused grommets – maximize the contact time between shuttle and string
• Control support cap – provides a wide, flat surface for easy grip, fast flow-through, and sharp maneuverability
• Graphite – lightweight
• Tri-voltage system – ensures that the frame flexes in a controlled way and transfers maximum power from the strings to the shuttle
• Stiff flex – for sturdiness 

Cons:

• Lower string tension 

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Duora 10

The Yonex Duora 10 boasts strong features that make it ideal for getting that perfect overhead shot.

This racket offers a duo aspect of an aerodynamic frame as well as a box frame which not only ensures optimum performance, it allows for even balance and a swift swing. The Yonex Duora 10 is ideal for intermediate to advanced level players.

With a slim shaft and aerodynamic frame, this racket offers optimal speed and momentum due to its minimal weight. This allows for players to enjoy less air resistance to move swiftly with strength.

A stiff flex and T-joint allow for the racket to absorb shock which not only eliminates trembling but enables complete control and versatility for ultimate precision. 

Pros:

• Stiff flex – sturdy and solid
• Aerodynamic frame and box frame for optimum performance – even balance, swift and snappy swing – perfect for overhead shots 
• Slim shaft – minimal weight for more speed and momentum
• T-joint absorbs shock – eliminates trembling and is versatile and controlled
• Support cap -Solid grip and maneuverability 

Cons:

• Requires coordination to use it properly

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Nanoray 7000I

The Yonex Nanoray 7000I is an ideal racket for quick-fire shots. Its lightweight and aerodynamic design make it easy to maneuver, swift and sharp in shot.

A sonic metal frame enables accurate precision shots. Its material allows you to deliver high-speed power shots with control. This racket is suitable for all levels and provides all the features needed for attacking and smashing. 

With a new knitting technology, the Yonex Nanoray 7000I provides high string tension with a single-pass grommet hole construction that enables a reduction in pressure on the strings. This ensures minimal friction on the string bed and prevents strings from twisting and the shuttle from getting caught. 

Pros: 

• Sonic metal – for a fast swing and great control as it enables high-speed power and precision shots 
• Flexible, durable body – aerodynamic, engineered for quick shots
• High string tension and new knitting technology – the single-pass grommet hole construction for reduced pressure on the strings and prevents twisting 
• Control support cap – stop hands from slipping as the wide, flat surface enables easy grip and sharp performance
• Graphite – lightweight

Cons:

• Vibrant sound is produced 

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Voltric Z Force II

The Yonex Voltric Z Force II is a high-performing racket with astonishing power. Its unique and distinct head size makes for a fast swing speed. Its smaller footprint along with its short shaft adds to its maneuverability. 

The Yonex Voltric Z Force II is made with an extra stiff shaft to help players increase their accuracy. Whilst an element of flexibility is removed, the player can feel the shots more and respond with more power.

The length and thickness of the shaft enable the racket to cut through the air faster which allows the player to deliver a more powerful return. 

A heavy head makes this racket an ideal choice for an attacking style as it is better for overhead shots. 

Pros:

• Uniquely small head – fast swing speed and maneuverability due to smaller head and shorter shaft
• Thin, extra stiff shaft – for increased accuracy, flexibility removed so you feel shots more and cuts through the air faster, and has good responsiveness to deliver a more powerful return
• Heavy head – suits an attacking style of play and is better for overhead shots 

Cons: 

• Good wrist technique needed

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Nanoray 10F

The Yonex Nanoray 10F offers strength and durability yet it is still lightweight. This combination of properties makes it an ideal choice for beginners or recreational use. 

Made from a graphite frame, this racket is ultra-lightweight. The Yonex Nanoray 10F stands out for its frame density. Designed with a thicker rim around the head and a thin top, this racket maximizes air resistance making for a strong, swift, and forceful swing. 

Whilst the frame of this racket might be thick, the Yonex Nanoray 10F has a flexible frame. This gives it the ability to absorb more impact throughout a game.

Pros:

• Graphite – ultra-lightweight 
• Increased frame density – thick rim for maximized air resistance for a more forceful swing
• Comes with TFA cap – absorbs vibrations 
• Flexible frame – absorbs impact and increases durability 

Cons:

• Standard grip 

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Nanoray 20

The Yonex Nanoray 20 offers everything you need and want in your first racket. Designed with beginners in mind, this racket is a fantastic choice if you’re just starting out or for recreational use. 

Aero-box variframe technology reduces torques which enable players to play with more accuracy. A built-in T-connection allows for a high level of control. With increased precision, players have an upper hand against their competition. 

With an aero-frame head construction, the Yonex Nanoframes slick contouring reduces air resistance and enables the racket to slice through the air with speed and power. 

Pros:

• Graphite, nanomesh, and carbon nanotube construction – lightweight
• Control support cap – for increased maneuverability 
• Aero-box variframe technology – allows for more accurate and precise shots and successful shuttle placement 
• T-connection between shaft and frame – for enhanced control and power
• Aerodynamic frame – enables swift movement through the air

Cons:

• Not designed for professional use

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex B-350

The Yonex B-350 is heavier than other rackets. Its increased weight makes it a suitable racket for beginners as it allows for increased control and easy handling. This is a great racket for recreational play or for beginners looking to build up their skills.  

A built-in T-joint helps players deliver more controlled shots as it enables assured sturdiness. The strong joint ultimately improves the Yonex B-350’s overall durability.

With a stiff shaft made from steel, this racket is great for anyone working on controlling the direction of their hits.

Pros:

• Increased weight – makes it easy to grip and easy to handle as it gives the player more control over their movements
• Made from high strength materials – ensuring long-lasting use and increased durability 
• Stiff high strength shaft made from steel – increases the strength and durability of the racket
• Built-in T-joint – adds to the sturdiness of the racket making it easy to handle for beginners as it enables players to more accurately direct the shuttle 
• Metallic body – giving power and precision and energy to drive shots with increased speed and force 

Cons:

• Heavy 

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Astrox 7

The Yonex Astrox 7 offers innovative features designed to help the player command the court. This racket’s features make it an ideal choice for both competitive and recreational use.

With a semi-stiff shaft, this racket offers support and control making it easy to use and ideal for beginner and intermediate level players.

The Yonex Astrox 7’s frame is made from graphite and tungsten, a material designed to strengthen the frame for enhanced durability. In addition, this racket has a balanced heavy head which offers a large mass.

This enables the player to deliver powerful, steep shots. It enables the player to deliver strong and controlled returns with full support making it a suitable racket for all styles of playing.  

Pros:

• Semi stiff shaft – makes it easy for beginner and intermediate level players to get used to the racket
• Head heavy – giving the head and frame a large mass that enables players to deliver powerful, steep smashes and ensures strong and controlled returns 
• Graphite and tungsten – enhances durability and strengthens the racket frame 
• Isometric head technology, rotational Generator System technology – enables evenly distributed weight throughout the racket allowing for maximum control and smooth transitions between shots. 
• Built-in T joint – offers high-end stability, ensures better stability and flexibility, and increases repulsion 

Cons:

• The thick frame makes it less aerodynamic 

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Yonex Voltric 200

The Yonex Voltric 200 offers superior features that increase performance. This racket is ideal for intermediate to advanced level players as it hosts numerous benefits designed for more intense playing. 

The Yonex Voltric 200’s isometric head shape stands out from the conventional rounded racket head shape. This innovative design improves accuracy and control enabling players to deliver more powerful shots. 

This racket design uses a stacking design created by CS carbon nanotube neo technology. This design contributes to an increase in repulsion power as it creates higher levels of durability.

 Pros:

• Isometric head shape – increases accuracy for a player to deliver more power shots 
• Head heavy – balanced by a slim, long shaft to maintain controlled handling
• Tri-voltage system – ensures strong repulsion for players to deliver powerful hits 
• Incorporates new Yonex technology – for easy handling and maneuverability  
• CS carbon nanotube neo technology with a multiple stacking design – which creates higher levels of durability and contributes to increasing repulsion power 
• Racket has a square head racket rather than a traditional oval head – improves accuracy and control 
• Built-in T-joint connecting the shaft to the frame – for improved durability and stability. 

Cons:

• Not designed for beginners

Last update on 2023-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Buying Guide

With so many rackets to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down which is best for you. The weight distribution, shape, and flexibility of a racket all contribute to your performance. The following presents the core features to look for in a great badminton racket. 

Head Heavy Rackets

A head heavy racket (also known as a power racket), is a racket with additional weight distributed at the top of the racket. This enables a player to deliver more momentum for a more powerful swing.

These rackets are best suited for players who require more power and maneuverability and are ideal for more aggressive players. These rackets are best suited for those who want to play a powerful game at the back of the court. 

Head Light Rackets

Head light rackets are designed with a balanced point towards the handle. These rackets are easier to handle giving a player more stability. These rackets are suitable for defensive players as they allow players to react quickly.

These rackets are ideal for fast play. The lightweight head ensures quick returns. However, smashes won’t be as powerful as a heavy head racket. 

Balanced Racket

An even balanced racket is a racket that is designed to give the best of a head heavy racket and light head racket. These rackets are designed to deliver enough power from the back of the court whilst enabling players to maintain control and maneuverability at the front. 

String Tension

The tighter the strings are on the head of the badminton racket, the more tension it will have. This feature ensures more controlled and accurate shots.

If the string tension is less, strings will be more repulsive and can produce more powerful shots. The lifespan is also longer for lower tension rackets. 

Oval Head Shape vs Isometric Head Shape

An oval-shaped racket head offers greater control and more durability as a result of a smaller sweet spot. Whereas an isometric-shaped head offers a larger sweet spot which makes for more powerful smashes. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Equipment Do You Need To Play Badminton?

• A net
• A shuttlecock
• A racket 

Where Can I Find The Badminton Rackets Listed?

Amazon.com 

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