Best Badminton Racket for Intermediate Players – Top 5 Picks and Buying Guide

Written by Kal

Published on February 11, 2025

Introduction

Badminton is a fast-paced and dynamic sport that requires the right equipment for you to perform at your best. If you’ve outgrown your beginner racket and are looking to elevate your game, it’s time to invest in a badminton racket that suits an intermediate skill level. But how do you determine which one is best for you? Below, we’ll break down what makes a great intermediate racket, discuss budget considerations, and present our top 5 choices to help you make an informed decision.

What Makes a Great Intermediate Racket?

Balanced Weight and Power

Intermediate rackets often provide a balance between power and speed. They shouldn’t be too heavy (which can tire your arm easily) or too light (which may lack power).

Slightly Stiffer Shaft

A racket with a medium to slightly stiff shaft is ideal for intermediate players, as it allows for greater control and better power transfer without being too demanding on technique.

Enhanced Maneuverability

At this stage, you want to improve your response time on the court. A racket with decent maneuverability will help you transition quickly between shots.

Reasonable Price Range

For intermediate players, rackets typically range between £ 100–180 (or equivalent). This price point generally offers better materials and technology than entry-level rackets without breaking the bank.

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Budget Considerations for Intermediate Players

While you don’t need to splurge on the highest-end models used by professionals, investing in a quality racket is a wise decision at the intermediate level. A slightly higher budget often translates to:

Better Build Quality: Stronger and more durable frame materials (often high-modulus graphite or a similar composite).
Advanced Technologies: Features like improved aerodynamics, shock absorption, and enhanced frame stability.
Greater Comfort: Rackets that reduce vibrations help prevent arm fatigue and potential injuries.

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1. Yonex Astrox 88D Tour

Yonex Astrox 88D Tour 3RD Generation Badminton Racket - Frame Only

£143.99

£175.00

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Key Features:

Slightly head-heavy balance for powerful clears and smashes.
Medium-stiff shaft suitable for intermediate to advanced players.
Designed to generate explosive power from the rear court.

Why It’s Great for Intermediate Players:
If you’re an intermediate player who loves to stay at the back of the court, the Astrox 88D Tour provides the extra edge you need to deliver powerful smashes and deep clears. It maintains solid defense capabilities despite its head-heavy design, making it ideal for those seeking a power-oriented racket without giving up too much on maneuverability.

Who Should Buy:

Doubles or singles players who want more punch in their smashes.
Intermediate players looking to develop stronger overhead shots while keeping a respectable defense.

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2. Yonex Nanoflare 800 Tour

Yonex Nanoflare 800 Tour Badminton Racket - [Frame Only]

£127.99

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Key Features:

Even to slightly head-light balance for quick racket speed.
Striking green colorway with aerodynamic frame design.
Excellent in drive exchanges and flat rallies.

Why It’s Great for Intermediate Players:
Nanoflare 800 Tour offers fantastic maneuverability, particularly suited for front-court players or those who rely on quick rallies and flat drives. Its lightweight nature means you can transition seamlessly from defense to offense, making it a popular choice for players who like fast exchanges and need rapid racket handling.

Who Should Buy:

Players who spend more time in the front court (e.g., doubles front player).
Those focusing on speed, precision, and rapid transitions rather than raw power

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3. Victor Thruster Ryuga Metallic

Victor Thruster Ryuga Metallic C Badminton Racket - Frame Only

Victor Thruster Ryuga Metallic C Badminton Racket - Frame Only

£169.99

£199.99

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Key Features:

Noticeably head-heavy balance for maximum power.
Durable metallic frame construction.
Exceptional smash potential and rear-court prowess.

Why It’s Great for Intermediate Players:
The Victor Thruster Ryuga Metallic stands out as a true powerhouse in the Thruster lineup. It delivers some of the most potent smashes you can find. However, this power-focused design can feel sluggish on defense. Intermediate players with a stronger wrist or arm technique will benefit the most, as it rewards good form with incredible hitting power.

Who Should Buy:

Offensive-minded players seeking explosive smashes.
Intermediate to advanced players who can handle a heavier, head-heavy racket.

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4. Victor Auraspeed HS Plus

Victor Auraspeed HS Plus 4U Badminton Racket - Black

Victor Auraspeed HS Plus 4U Badminton Racket - Black

£189.99

£0.00

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Key Features:

Freshly launched model offering all-round versatility.
Balanced weight distribution for a blend of power and speed.
Aerodynamic frame that improves swing speed and control.

Why It’s Great for Intermediate Players:
The Auraspeed HS Plus aims to strike a balance between power, speed, and control. This dynamic racket helps you handle various playing styles—be it controlling the net or delivering a solid smash. If you’re still refining your technique but want a racket that can adapt to different situations, this model is an excellent all-around option.

Who Should Buy:

All-court players who need versatility across offense and defense.
Intermediate players refining their style and not wanting to specialize in just power or speed.

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5. Li-Ning BladeX Sun

Li-Ning BladeX 900 Max Sun Badminton Racket - Gold

Li-Ning BladeX 900 Max Sun Badminton Racket - Gold

£169.99

Quantity

Key Features:

Even-balanced frame that packs a surprising punch.
Eye-catching design with premium finishing.
Offers both speed for defense and power for attacking play.

Why It’s Great for Intermediate Players:
The BladeX Sun provides explosive power despite its even balance, making it a superb choice for doubles players who split their time between front-court interceptions and back-court smashes. It doesn’t compromise much on speed either, so switching between attacking and defensive maneuvers remains fluid.

Who Should Buy:

Doubles players seeking a balance of power and speed.
Intermediate players wanting to stand out with a stylish racket without sacrificing performance.

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How to Choose the Right Racket for You

As an intermediate player, deciding which of these rackets best suits you may depend on:

Playing Style: Are you a back-court smasher, a front-court driver, or do you float between the two?
Preferred Balance: Head-heavy rackets favor power, while head-light rackets aid speed. Even-balance models offer a mix of both.
Physical Strength: A heavier racket requires more arm and wrist strength to maneuver quickly.
Budget: Consider the investment you’re willing to make. These mid-range rackets typically offer excellent value and durability.

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Conclusion

Finding the best badminton racket for intermediate players hinges on balancing power, speed, and overall feel. Whether you favor the smashing prowess of the Victor Thruster Ryuga Metallic, the speed of the Yonex Nanoflare 800 Tour, or the all-around versatility of the Victor Auraspeed HS Plus, each racket on our list brings unique advantages to help elevate your game.

As you weigh your options, consider your playing style, physical ability, and budget. Ultimately, choosing a racket that feels comfortable in your hand and matches your technique is the key to success. Experiment, test a few rackets if possible, and soon you’ll be confidently stepping up to the net with the perfect intermediate racket in hand!