‘How to Choose the Right Badminton Racket?’

There are some considerable tips for you:

  1. Determine Your Skill Level

Beginner – Look for a lightweight, flexible racket that offers better control and easier maneuverability.
Intermediate – A medium-weight, medium-flex racket provides a balance between power and control.
Advanced/Professional – A stiff, heavier racket offers precision, power, and speed, ideal for advanced gameplay.

  1. Choose the Right Weight (U Rating)

Racket weight is denoted by “U”, where a lower number means a heavier racket:
3U (85-89g) – Ideal for singles players who need control and stability. Example : Yonex Astrox 99.

Yonex Astrox 99 (3U)


4U (80-84g) – Best for doubles players who need faster reactions and maneuverability. Example : Yonex Nanoflare 700.

Yonex Nanoflare 700 (4U)


5U (75-79g) or Lighter – Great for beginners and defensive players who prefer a lighter feel. Example : Li-Ning Halbertec Motor.

Li-Ning Halbertec Motor (5U)
  1. Select the Balance Type
Balancing.

Racket balance affects your gameplay style:
Head-Heavy – More power for smashes and clears, ideal for offensive players.
Even-Balance – Balanced power and control, suitable for all-round players.
Head-Light – Faster maneuverability, great for doubles play and defensive players.

  1. Choose the Shaft Flexibility

Flexible Shaft – Generates more power with less effort, good for beginners.
Medium Shaft – A balance between power and control, suitable for intermediate players.
Stiff Shaft – Requires more skill but provides precision and speed, ideal for advanced players.

  1. Consider the String Tension

Lower Tension (18-22 lbs) – More power, larger sweet spot, ideal for beginners.
Medium Tension (23-25 lbs) – Balanced control and power, great for intermediate players.
High Tension (26-30+ lbs) – More control and precision, used by advanced players.

  1. Grip Size & Type

Common grip sizes (G4, G5) – G5 (smaller grip) is more common for better wrist movement.

Types of Grips –
Towel Grip – Absorbs sweat but needs frequent changing.

Towel Grip

Synthetic Grip – Durable and less maintenance.

Synthetic Grip

  1. Material & Brand Preferences

Graphite & Carbon Fiber – Lightweight, durable, and best for performance. For example : YONEX Muscle Power Carbon Fibre Graphite 29 Light.

YONEX Muscle Power Carbon Fibre Graphite 29 Light.


Aluminum or Steel – Heavier but affordable, good for beginners. For example : G1 Badminton Recket.

G1 Badminton Recket.


Popular Brands – Yonex, Li-Ning, Victor, Babolat, Carlton, Wilson.

  1. Try Before You Buy

If possible, test different rackets to see what feels comfortable and suits your playing style.

Best Rackets for Different Players
Beginner – Yonex Nanoray 10F, Li-Ning Windstorm 72

Intermediate – Yonex Arcsaber 11, Victor Thruster K 770HT


Advanced – Yonex Astrox 100ZZ, Li-Ning 3D Calibar 900.