Best Badminton Rackets of 2026

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Badminton rackets are essential equipment for anyone looking to play badminton. They come in a variety of materials, shapes, and sizes to suit different playing styles and skill levels. Some rackets are designed for power, while others are more geared towards control and precision. The weight and balance of the racket are also important factors to consider when choosing the right one for your game. With so many options available, it's important to do your research and choose a racket that best suits your needs and playing style.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

YONEX Nanoray Light 18i Graphite Badminton Racquet Cover #TOP 1
YONEX Nanoray Light 18i Graphite Badminton Racquet
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Yonex Arcsaber 11 Badminton Pre-Strung Racket Cover #TOP 2
Yonex Arcsaber 11 Badminton Pre-Strung Racket
ftb score rating icon 9.7
YONEX Astrox Lite 27i Cover #TOP 3
YONEX Astrox Lite 27i
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Badminton Rackets

#TOP 1

YONEX Nanoray Light 18i Graphite Badminton Racquet

NANORAYL18I-G4
Black
G4 - 5U(75-79.9g )
YONEX Nanoray Light 18i Graphite Badminton Racquet Cover
YONEX Nanoray Light 18i Graphite Badminton Racquet (Black)

The YONEX Nanoray Light 18i Graphite Badminton Racquet is a high-quality badminton racket designed for players of all levels. With its lightweight graphite frame, this racket offers excellent control and maneuverability on the court. The graphite material provides durability and strength, ensuring that the racket can withstand intense gameplay. The Nanoray Light 18i also features a comfortable grip, allowing for a firm hold and reducing the risk of slippage during gameplay. Additionally, the racket's sleek black design adds a touch of style to your badminton sessions. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, the YONEX Nanoray Light 18i is a reliable and versatile choice for your badminton needs.

What We Like
Ultra lightweight design
Excellent for beginners
Good defensive performance
Head-light balance
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Original string tension low
Slightly shorter length
#TOP 2

Yonex Arcsaber 11 Badminton Pre-Strung Racket

ARC11PLGRP4UG5
Grey
Medium
Yonex Arcsaber 11 Badminton Pre-Strung Racket Cover
Yonex Arcsaber 11 Play Badminton Pre-Strung Racket (Grayish Pearl) (4UG5)

The Yonex Arcsaber 11 Badminton Pre-Strung Racket is a medium flex graphite frame racket pre-strung by the manufacturer. Its weight is 4U with an average of 83 grams, and its grip size is G5. The racket's shaft composition is also graphite. It is a genuine US version product and comes in the color Grayish Pearl.

What We Like
Lightweight and balanced design
Suitable for beginners and intermediates
Good power and control
Custom stringing option available
Authentic Yonex quality
What We Don't Like
String quality could be better
A bit pricey for some
#TOP 3

YONEX Astrox Lite 27i

AXLT27I
Blue
One Size
YONEX Astrox Lite 27i Cover
YONEX Astrox Lite 27i Graphite Strung Badminton Racket with Full Racket Cover (Blue) | for Intermediate Players | 77 Grams | Maximum String Tension - 30lbs

The YONEX Astrox Lite 27i is a high-performance badminton racquet designed for advanced players. With its slim shaft, this racquet allows for more speed, resulting in increased power during gameplay. The square-shaped ISOMETRIC frame provides an enlarged sweet spot, offering greater control without sacrificing power. The racquet's Aero+Box frame combines a solid hitting feel with quick swing, while the Control Support CAP ensures sharp maneuverability. Additionally, the Rotational Generator System distributes weight throughout the grip end, frame top, and joint, allowing for maximum control and smooth transitions between shots. Perfect for advanced players, the YONEX Astrox Lite 27i delivers speed, power, control, and maneuverability for an enhanced badminton experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy handling
Comfortable grip
Good power for smashes
Attractive black and red design
Excellent value for money
What We Don't Like
Slight bag zipper defect
Grip may need replacement
#TOP 4

Franklin Sports Glow in the Dark Badminton Rackets Set

52624X
Glow in the Dark
One Size
Franklin Sports Glow in the Dark Badminton Rackets Set Cover
Franklin Sports 2 Player Badminton LED Rackets

Get ready for nighttime fun with the Franklin Glow Badminton Set! This set includes 2 player rackets and 2 birdies, all equipped with battery-powered LED lights that illuminate your game after dark. The steel rackets are durable yet lightweight, perfect for hours of play. The high-grade nylon birdies ensure precise shots. Whether you need to replace old gear or add players, this set has you covered.

What We Like
Lightweight rackets
Good value for money
Easy for kids to use
Nice racquet finish
What We Don't Like
Fragile build quality
Weak shuttlecocks
#TOP 5

HIRALIY Badminton Rackets Set of 4

HR-BRS-4
Blue
One Size
HIRALIY Badminton Rackets Set of 4 Cover
HIRALIY Badminton Rackets Set for Backyards, Lightweight Badminton Set of 4, Includ 4 Rackets, 12 Nylon Birdies, Replacement Grip Tapes, 1 Carrying Bag, Outdoor Games for Adults Family Kids Beginners

If you are a beginner or a casual player looking for a badminton racket set, the HIRALIY Badminton Rackets Set of 4 is the ideal choice for you. This set includes 4 steel badminton racquets, 12 durable nylon shuttlecocks, 4 replacement grip tapes, 4 rackets protection tapes, and 1 large carrying bag. The rackets are lightweight and easy to swing without feeling fatigued, making them perfect for playing with your family, kids, or friends. The tempered steel frame and built-in T-Joint provide a balance between lightness and sturdiness, while the oval head design expands the sweet spot for easier and more accurate hits. The set also comes with superior accessories, including shuttlecocks made of complexcork head and nylon feather for improved durability and stability, replacement grip tapes made of PU material for cushioning and sweat absorption, and rackets protection tapes to reduce wear and tear. Every racket is prestrung with good tension, making them suitable for beginners to intermediate players. Get ready to enjoy hours of fun and friendly competition with the HIRALIY Badminton Rackets Set of 4.

What We Like
Lightweight rackets
Good value for price
Convenient carrying bag
Suitable for beginners
Extra grips and birdies
What We Don't Like
Occasional racket durability issues
String breakage after heavy use
#TOP 6

Yonex GR 303 Combo Badminton Racquet

GR 303
Black
One Size
Yonex GR 303 Combo Badminton Racquet Cover
Yonex GR 303 Combo Badminton Racquet with Full Cover, Set of 2 (Black)

The Yonex GR 303 Combo Badminton Racquet is a great choice for intermediate players. With its G3 grip size and lightweight design, this racquet offers a comfortable and easy-to-handle experience. The isometric head shape provides a larger sweet spot, allowing for more precise shots and improved accuracy. It is strung, so you can start playing right away without the hassle of stringing it yourself. The racquet is made of a blend material, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. The set includes 2 racquets with a head cover, providing convenience and protection for your equipment. With the Yonex GR 303 Racquet, you can enjoy a fun and competitive game of badminton.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Comfortable grip
Durable build quality
Affordable pricing
Suitable for casual play
What We Don't Like
Slight size smaller for adults
Possible minor frame bend
#TOP 7

Yonex NanoFlare 1000 Play Badminton Racquet

Yellow
4 5 inch
Yonex NanoFlare 1000 Play Badminton Racquet Cover
Yonex NanoFlare 1000 Play Badminton Racquet (4UG5) - Prestrung

The Yonex NanoFlare 1000 is designed to help you hit your shots farther with ease. Its medium-flex shaft offers a good balance of power and control, making it easier to swing smoothly during your game. The racquet’s head-light balance means it feels lighter at the top, allowing for quicker and more comfortable maneuvering. Plus, the isometric head shape gives you a larger sweet spot, so even if you don’t hit the shuttlecock perfectly in the center, you’ll still get stable and accurate shots. This makes the Yonex NanoFlare 1000 a great choice if you want a racquet that’s easy to handle and helps improve your play.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Comfortable grip
Beginner-friendly flexibility
Durable racket case
Attractive appearance
What We Don't Like
Slightly heavier than expected
Handle durability concerns
#TOP 8

YONEX Muscle Power 29 Lite Badminton Racket

MP29LTC
Black/White
One Size
YONEX Muscle Power 29 Lite Badminton Racket Cover
YONEX Muscle Power 29 Carbon Graphite Strung Badminton Racket with Full Racket Cover (Black/White) | for Intermediate Players | 85 Grams | Maximum String Tension - 30lbs

The YONEX Muscle Power 29 Lite Badminton Racket is designed for those who require fast movement and effortless power. With its unique frame construction integrating the frame and string, it boasts a Muscle Power Frame for high repulsion power and sharp shots. Please note that color and design may vary from the photo due to differences in manufacturing lots. The seller has been in business for over 50 years and offers fast DHL express service courier.

What We Like
Lightweight and well-balanced
Excellent power and control
Durable for frequent use
Great value for price
Suitable for all skill levels
What We Don't Like
String tension slightly lower
String quality could improve
#TOP 9

AboveGenius Badminton Rackets Set

AG-6BR
kiwi, navy
Large
AboveGenius Badminton Rackets Set Cover
AboveGenius Badminton Rackets Set with 6 Shuttlecocks, Lightweight Badminton Set of 6 for Outdoor Backyard Games, Racquets with Durability for Beginners and Casual Players

The AboveGenius Badminton Rackets Set comes with 6 tempered steel rackets, 6 nylon shuttlecocks, and prestrung frame with good tension for beginner and intermediate level of playing. The rackets are lightweight and easy to swing without feeling fatigued, and the oval head design expands the sweet spot and makes it easier to hit properly. The nylon shuttlecocks are of high quality, improving the durability and stability. This set is a great choice for casual entertainment or to replenish your badminton arsenal.

What We Like
Lightweight and comfortable grip
Good value for money
Durable for kids and beginners
Strong and tight strings
Fun for family play
What We Don't Like
Birdie tips wear quickly
Not top brand quality
#TOP 10

Yonex ASTROX 88 Play Badminton Racquet

AX88PL03BKS4U5
Black/Silver
88 inch
Yonex ASTROX 88 Play Badminton Racquet Cover
Yonex ASTROX 88 Play Badminton Racquet (Black/Silver) (4UG5) Factory Prestrung

The Yonex ASTROX 88 Play is designed to enhance your badminton game with a head-heavy balance that provides more power in your smashes, helping you dominate the court. Its medium flex offers a great mix of control and flexibility, making it easier to handle quick shots and powerful swings. Weighing between 80-84 grams with a G5 grip, this racquet is lightweight enough for fast movements but still offers a comfortable hold. Plus, it comes factory prestrung, saving you time and effort so you can start playing right away.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Durable construction
Great for aggressive beginners
Comes with case and pre-strung
Responsive customer service
Buying Guide Image

Why We Recommend Badminton Rackets

Your interest or passion for badminton could be cut short if you do not have adequate knowledge of the significance and classification of badminton rackets. It is a lightweight racket, between 80 and 100 grams, used by badminton players. A badminton racket is different in that it is narrower and has a smaller head. You’ll get useful tips that will help you decide the best badminton racket type for you.

Factors to Consider before Buying a Badminton racket

Badminton Racket Weight: This is worth your consideration, especially with your proficiency level. It is better to buy a lightweight racket if you are a beginner. With that, you would have control over your speed and recovery. A light badminton racket brand will also help you to quickly deliver your serves and guarantees your ability to adapt to different strokes. However, for professionals, a heavier badminton racket brand like 3U is preferable to ensure stability, especially if you are a single player. As a double play, you would prefer a lighter badminton racket size for an increased speed and a higher response level.

The String tension: You can feel the tension of your racket by pressing the palm against the strings. The level at which it sinks or the depth determines the tension of your badminton racket. A lot of players would require tension if they channel more energy into their strokes. The tension of the string is also dependent on the temperature of the environment. Strings are known to expand in places where there is high temperature. Therefore, people living in the tropics would likely require a higher tension string.

Balance: Racket balance has to do with the measure of the distribution of weight in a racket. a Headlight Badminton Racket label is designed so that the weight is more concentrated on the head. This comes with great power, and it enhances stability. It is suitable for single players than double.

In contrast, the Evenly-Balanced Badminton racket has a balanced weight distribution. The balance point is located in the middle of the racket and is suitable for beginners. It helps to provide the control, power, and flexibility that is sufficient.

Materials: Generally speaking, there are several types of badminton rackets depending on the material, like steel badminton backets, graphite badminton rackets, aluminum badminton rackets and carbon badminton rackets.

Benefits of Badminton Rackets

Stability and Control: Depending on the type of badminton rackets brand, you can derive the stability and control needed in fulfilling your quest.

Quicker Reaction: The headlight badminton racket and shuttle can help guarantee an enhanced response to rallies.

Flexibility: A good badminton racket helps to enhance flexibility by ensuring a free and wide range of options during play.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which racket is better, carbon or graphite?

When it comes to badminton rackets, both carbon and graphite rackets have their advantages. Graphite rackets offer stability and allow manufacturers to adjust the flex patterns of the racket. On the other hand, carbon fiber rackets provide good strength, allowing users to string the racket at a higher tension without risking damage to the frame. Ultimately, the choice between carbon and graphite depends on individual preferences and playing style.

Editor's Notes

During our badminton racket research, we found 24 badminton racket products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 200,361 customer reviews through our big data system to write the badminton rackets list. We found that most customers choose badminton rackets with an average price of $33.96.

The badminton rackets are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of badminton rackets, including YONEX, Franklin Sports, HIRALIY, AboveGenius. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 175 consumers with an average rating of 4.2.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.

Badminton Rackets Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand YONEX YONEX YONEX Franklin Sports HIRALIY YONEX YONEX YONEX AboveGenius YONEX
Size G4 - 5U(75-79.9g ) Medium One Size One Size One Size One Size 4 5 inch One Size Large 88 inch
Grip Size 3 3/4 Inches 4 5/8 inches 3 3/4 inches Small standard 3.5 inches G5 G4 4 inches G5
Sport Badminton Badminton Badminton Badminton Badminton Badminton Badminton Badminton Badminton Badminton
Material Graphite Graphite Graphite Alloy Steel (for frame) and Nylon shaft) Alloy Steel Aluminum Carbon Graphite Carbon Graphite Alloy Steel, Nylon Carbon Graphite
Skill Level All All Intermediate Beginner Beginner Beginner All Intermediate Beginner Beginner
Shaft Material Graphite Graphite Graphite Nylon Alloy Steel Aluminum Graphite, Nanocell NEO, HM Graphite Carbon Graphite Alloy Steel Graphite
Frame Material Graphite Graphite Graphite - Alloy Steel Aluminum Graphite Carbon Graphite Alloy Steel Graphite
Item Weight 77 Grams 250 Grams 0.08 Kilograms - 1.87 Pounds 200 Grams 89 Grams 0.09 Kilograms - 84 Grams
Age Range (Description) Adult Adult - Adult/Kid - Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
Where to Buy