The 10 Best Badminton Racquets

This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in November of 2018. In addition to being a fun backyard and beach pastime, badminton is one of the most popular sports in the world, with a great number of high-level players competing in international championships, including the Olympics. With that in mind, we have taken the time to identify the best racquets for novices and experienced players looking to up their game. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in November of 2018. In addition to being a fun backyard and beach pastime, badminton is one of the most popular sports in the world, with a great number of high-level players competing in international championships, including the Olympics. With that in mind, we have taken the time to identify the best racquets for novices and experienced players looking to up their game. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Yonex Voltric Z Force II

The Yonex Voltric Z Force II (appx. $215) is the model of choice for many top players, including Lee Chong Wei, who was ranked number one in the world for almost four years straight. We think if it's good enough for him, then it's probably good enough for you, too.

The brand's thinnest shaft ever
Capable of powerful smashes
Swings quickly through the air

2. Apacs EdgeSaber 10

The Apacs EdgeSaber 10 (appx. $48) is designed with an isometric head frame. This results in main and cross strings that are roughly equal in length, producing a very large sweet spot and making it a forgiving choice for novices who often mishit the shuttlecock.

Releases a lot of energy on impact
Well suited to aggressive players
Impressive quality for the price

3. Victor Brave Sword 12

The Victor Brave Sword 12 (appx. $155) has an even balance and a medium flex that makes it a good all-around option for those who don't want to sacrifice control in the name of power. Because of its lightweight construction, it offers a high degree of maneuverability.

Helps conserve player's energy
Excels at net defense
Suitable for tournament play

4. Yonex Nanoray 900

A top of the line choice for serious players, the Yonex Nanoray 900 (appx. $240) has a stiff shaft that produces powerful smashes when you connect in the sweet spot, despite having a somewhat head-light balance. It is also known for offering a near unmatched level of control.

Good vibration reduction
Really shines on steep-angled shots
Available strung or unstrung

5. Dynamic Shuttle Sports Hyperion KV-100

The head-heavy Dynamic Shuttle Sports Hyperion KV-100 (appx. $75) is intended for offensive players who like to hit hard. It has a carbon fiber frame that is lightweight, but still capable of supporting up to 30 pounds of string tension.

Extra stiff shaft
Attractive metallic end cap
Comes with grips and a cover

6. Wilson BLX Blade

Coming from one of the top names in sports equipment, the Wilson BLX Blade (around $89) is available at a surprisingly affordable price, especially when considering its oversized sweet spot, incredible vibration resistance, and clean hit feedback.

As responsive as carbon fiber models
Prestrung at the factory
Only comes in one color

7. Dynamic Shuttle Sports Titan G-Force 7

The Dynamic Shuttle Sports Titan G-Force 7 (appx. $59) is a smart choice for novices who are ready to step up from low-quality, entry-level models. It works well for both defensive and aggressive playing styles, so you can keep your opponent guessing.

Good control at the net
Can customize your string tension
Sacrifices some power for speed

8. Babolat I-Pulse Power G2

The Babolat I-Pulse Power G2 (appx. $65) weighs in at 86 grams and features a flexible shaft that makes it best suited to players with a slower swing speed. It is very maneuverable in the hand and should allow you to get at a few more of those hard to reach birdies.

Doesn't require a big backswing
Nice solid feel on impact
Max string tension of 27 pounds

9. RiteTrak Sports FiberFlash 7

The RiteTrak Sports FiberFlash 7 (appx. $39) comes as a set of two racquets, three shuttlecocks, and a carrying case. It makes a good beginner option for someone just trying out the sport who wants to be able to play with friends at the park or on the beach.

Sturdy one-piece design
Comfortable embossed pvc grip
Included strings aren't very strong

10. Franklin Sports Elite

The Franklin Sports Elite (about $45) features a full carbon frame that makes it durable and allows you to transfer a lot of power from your swing to the shuttlecock. It has been engineered to be lightweight to keep arm fatigue down to a minimum.

Decent entry-level choice
Wallet-friendly price
Not suitable for competition play

Last updated by Brett Dvoretz

A wandering writer who spends as much time on the road as in front of a laptop screen, Brett can either be found hacking away furiously at the keyboard or, perhaps, enjoying a whiskey and coke on some exotic beach, sometimes both simultaneously, usually with a four-legged companion by his side. He has been a professional chef, a dog trainer, and a travel correspondent for a well-known Southeast Asian guidebook. He also holds a business degree and has spent more time than he cares to admit in boring office jobs. He has an odd obsession for playing with the latest gadgets and working on motorcycles and old Jeeps. His expertise, honed over years of experience, is in the areas of computers, electronics, travel gear, pet products, and kitchen, office and automotive equipment.

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