By Justin Ma, 7x US Junior National Badminton Champion.
Last updated January 10, 2024
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4 min read
Need a new racket to kick off your badminton journey in 2024, but don’t want to spend a fortune to get one? If so, here’s some good news: there are plenty of budget-friendly rackets that can make that happen.
While high-end rackets can be pricey, there are many affordable options that still pack a punch in terms of quality — especially for new and intermediate players.
Here are the best badminton rackets under $50, complete with their pros, cons, and where you can pick them up.
To get your badminton game started on a budget, here are the seven best badminton rackets under $50:
This lightweight carbon-graphite racket is a top-tier option for those new to badminton. Rated 4.4 stars with over 15,000 reviews on Amazon, it weighs just 77 grams — making it perfect for players who are still working on their swing strength.
It can handle string tensions of up to 30 lbs and is built with Yonex’s Aero frame to minimize air resistance. Plus, its isometric head shape gives it a bigger sweet spot, making it easier to hit high-power smashes.
This is a high-flex racket, meaning it’s “whippier” (and more forgiving) in terms of power. One con is that this can make it harder to control, but it’s still a great option if you could use the extra repulsion in your shots.
Check the price of the Yonex Nanoray 10F Hi-Flex on Amazon
Ever heard of the Yonex Arcsaber 11? If so, you might know that it’s one of the most popular all-around rackets to date.
The EdgeSaber 10 is sort of like Apacs’ “version” of this racket. And while it can sometimes be a few dollars over $50, its incredible quality makes it worth including in this roundup.
Made of high-modulus graphite, the EdgeSaber 10 is durable and lightweight at 85 grams. And thanks to its medium-flex shaft and head-heavy balance point, it’s powerful, easy to handle, and beginner-friendly.
These specs mean it can work well for speedy defenders, hard hitters, or players who are a bit of both.
Check the price of the Apacs EdgeSaber 10 on Amazon
The Li-Ning G-Force Superlite 3600 is an ultra carbon fiber racket that can handle string tensions of up to 30 lbs.
It has a head-heavy balance point and dynamic frame, making it great for intermediate players with a balanced/offensive playstyle.
It’s lightweight at 79 grams, has an ultra-aerodynamic frame, and has an aramid-fiber shaft that’s flexible yet strong. And with a 4.2-star rating from over 2,000 reviews, it’s easily one of the top badminton rackets out there for its price.
Check the price of the Li-Ning G-Force Superlite 3600 on Amazon
The Yonex Astrox Lite 21I is another full graphite racket with a high-flex shaft. It weighs 78 grams and is made of Nanomesh Neo — a type of adhesive that boosts repulsion and helps the racket snap back faster.
Like other Yonex rackets, it has an Aero Box frame that makes it more aerodynamic, reduces drag, and increases swing speed.
Overall, its specs make it perfect for players looking for a blend of lightweight speed and power. Depending on your playstyle, it has the potential to work well as a doubles racket or versatile all-arounder.
Check the price of the Yonex Astrox Lite 21I on Amazon
One of the best options for new-to-intermediate players, the Apacs EdgeSaber Z Slayer is a top-tier racket for around $50. It’s said to be similar to the Yonex Arcsaber Z Slash — meaning it’s great for power and precision.
It has a medium-flex shaft, a slightly head-heavy balance point, and an 85-gram weight. It also has a Whip-Slim Frame for added repulsion, which helps it produce a slingshot-like effect after each shot.
Overall, it’s one of the best budget buys for players who don’t want to compromise on power, precision, or durability.
Check the price of the Apacs EdgeSaber Z Slayer at Badminton Bay
Looking for a low-cost option from the Arcsaber line? If so, the 71 Light is an excellent racket to consider.
Weighing just 77 grams, this durable carbon graphite racket has a built-in T joint to help it withstand shot after shot. It’s also designed with Yonex’s Nanoscience technology for maximum speed and repulsion power.
With a slightly head-light balance point and large sweet spot, it may not be best for those who prefer aggressive offense. Instead, it’s well-suited to doubles players who rely on speed in their game.
Check the price of the Arcsaber 71 Light on Amazon
The Voltric Lite 25I is another solid budget-friendly racket for new-to-intermediate players. It’s head-heavy and lightweight at 77 grams. It’s also part of Yonex’s Voltric series — a line designed for speed and power.
Because it’s high-flex, it’s an ideal choice if you’re still working on your swing and could use an extra boost of power. It also comes with several features Yonex rackets are known for — including an Aero Box frame, built-in T joint, and isometric head shape for a larger sweet spot.
Check the price of the Voltric Lite 25i on Amazon
When it comes to the best badminton rackets under $50, the options above are a great place to start. But every player’s style and preferences are different, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for before you buy.
If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a guide to help you figure out what type of racket is best for you.
As a next step, it can also help to test out rackets at your local badminton store or club. This way, you can get a feel for what you like — whether that’s a head-heavy attacker, speedy defender, or something in between.
