Best Badminton Racket for Beginners: Top 5 Picks for Easy Progress

Written by Kal

Published on February 11, 2025

Introduction

 

If you’re new to badminton, choosing the right racket can make all the difference in how quickly you improve and how much you enjoy the game. The best badminton racket for beginners typically offers a good balance between power and control without being too heavy or stiff. It should also be easy on the budget—there’s no need to invest in a professional-level racket when you’re still mastering the basics.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the top five beginner-friendly badminton rackets, each offering unique features to help you develop your skills with confidence and ease.

What Should a Beginner Look for in a Racket?

1. Weight:

  • Lighter rackets (around 4U or 5U in badminton terms) are generally easier to maneuver, which is ideal for learning proper strokes and footwork.

2. Balance:

  • Even-balance rackets offer a mix of power and control.
  • Head-heavy rackets generate more power for smashes but can feel heavier to swing.
  • Head-light rackets are quicker to maneuver but may lack some power if you’re still developing 

3. Flexibility

  • Flexible shafts generate more repulsion (power) if your swing speed isn’t too fast yet.
  • Stiffer shafts provide greater precision but require more developed technique and strength.

Budget

  • While professional-grade rackets can be costly, there are excellent mid-range options designed specifically for beginners. As a new player, focus on a racket that meets your technique needs rather than going for the highest-end model.
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1. Yonex Arcsaber 11 Play

Key Features:

  • Balance: Even-balanced design.
  • Power and Control: Offers a superb blend of power and control, making it easier for beginners to develop consistent strokes and placement.
  • Playability: The overall design mirrors the popular Arcsaber series known for versatility, but this “Play” version is more budget-friendly.

Why It’s Great for Beginners:

  • The even balance helps new players focus on building technique without being overwhelmed by extreme head heaviness or lightness.
  • Ideal for players looking to experiment with different play styles—defense, offense, net play—before specializing.
Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play Badminton Racket
Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play Badminton Racket

Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play Badminton Racket

£54.99
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Li Ning Calibar 300 Combat

Key Features:

  • Balance: Slightly head-heavy.
  • Power-Oriented: Designed for stronger clears and smashes from the back court.
  • Build Quality: Li Ning is known for robust construction, offering good durability even in budget-friendly models.

Why It’s Great for Beginners:

  • If you’re a beginner who enjoys smashing or if you have decent wrist strength, this racket’s head-heavy profile can give you that extra power.
  • The moderate price point makes it accessible to beginners who want a bit more “punch” in their gameplay.
Li-Ning 3D Calibar 300 Combat Badminton Racket

Li-Ning 3D Calibar 300 Combat Badminton Racket

£59.99
£99.99
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3. Victor Drive X 1LA

Key Features:

  • Weight: Lightweight design makes it very easy to maneuver.
  • User-Friendly: Perfect for players still developing their technique and timing, as the racket won’t strain the wrist or arm.
  • Control: Maintains a good level of control despite its lighter weight.

Why It’s Great for Beginners:

  • New players often struggle with timing and swing speed. A lighter racket like the Drive X 1LA reduces fatigue and enables you to focus on proper stroke mechanics.
  • Ideal for doubles, where quick reactions at the net can be crucial, but still versatile enough for singles play.
Victor DriveX 1 LA Badminton Racket [Frame Only]
Victor DriveX 1 LA Badminton Racket [Frame Only]

Victor DriveX 1 LA Badminton Racket [Frame Only]

£84.99
£119.99
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4. Yonex Astrox 88 Play

Key Features:

  • Shaft Stiffness: Slightly stiffer shaft compared to other beginner rackets.
  • All-Round Performance: Provides a good mix of power, speed, and control.
  • Astrox Series Legacy: Known for the head-heavy line, but the “Play” version is more forgiving for less experienced players.

Why It’s Great for Beginners:

  • While the shaft is a bit stiffer, it helps in developing a cleaner technique and accurate shot placement early on.
  • Offers a balanced playing experience that can adapt to various play styles, making it a long-term option as you improve.
Yonex Astrox 88 Play (2024) Badminton Racket

Yonex Astrox 88 Play (2024) Badminton Racket

£64.99
£79.99
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5. Victor Thruster 1HH

Key Features:

  • Balance: Even-balanced, making transitions from front to back court smoother.
  • Ease of Use: Designed to help players develop confidence in both attack and defense.
  • Versatility: Handles power shots and delicate net plays equally well.

Why It’s Great for Beginners:

  • You won’t feel the racket tipping too heavily in one direction, so it’s easier to learn footwork and stroke consistency.
  • Suitable for players who want to explore various positions on the court (singles, doubles) without feeling restricted by their equipment.
Victor Thruster 1H H Badminton Racket [Frame Only]

Victor Thruster 1H H Badminton Racket [Frame Only]

£54.99
£84.99
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Budget Considerations

For beginners, it’s wise to look for a racket in the £50–£80 range. This ensures decent quality without overspending on advanced features you won’t fully utilize yet. All five of the rackets mentioned typically fall within or around this bracket, though prices can fluctuate based on local availability and sales.

Pro Tip:

Before finalizing your purchase, consider testing a friend’s racket or visiting a local sports store to get a feel for weight and balance preferences. What works for one beginner may not be the ideal choice for another, so hands-on testing can prevent buyer’s remorse.
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Conclusion

Finding the best badminton racket for beginners doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By focusing on a racket’s weight, balance, shaft flexibility, and budget, you can hone in on a model that accelerates your learning curve while keeping the game fun. Each of the five rackets mentioned here—Yonex Arcsaber 11 Play, Li Ning Calibar 300 Combat, Victor Drive X 1LA, Yonex Astrox 88 Play, and Victor Thruster 1HH—brings unique strengths to help you confidently grow your skill set on the court.

Remember, a good beginner racket is one that supports your technique, helps you develop good habits, and keeps you excited about the sport. Whichever racket you choose, make sure to practice regularly and enjoy the journey of improving your badminton game!