Badminton rackets are an essential tool for players and can significantly impact a player’s performance on the court, as the right racket can go a long way in badminton.
And if you are a beginner or an intermediate player, I suggest you choose and buy a racket according to your game level and skills.
People say the racquet doesn’t matter much, but to a certain extent, it does, even for a beginner player.
And to prove them wrong, I have listed and explained the top rackets, which are readily available on the market for under 1500 INR and are suitable for different levels of players, from beginners to intermediates.
So, let’s take a closer look at this table.
| S. No. | Racket | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hundred Rock 88 Carbon Racket | Check Price on Amazon |
| 2 | Yonex Voltric Lite 25i | Check Price on Amazon |
| 3 | Yonex ZR 100 Light | Check Price on Amazon |
| 4 | Yonex GR 303 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 5 | Yonex Astrox Lite 21i | Check Price on Amazon |
| 6 | Yonex Nanoray 6000I | Check Price on Amazon |
| 7 | Yonex Nanoray 7000I | Check Price on Amazon |
| 8 | Cosco CB-150 E Aluminum Badminton Racket | Check Price on Amazon |
| 9 | Apacs Finapi 232 Racket | Check Price on Amazon |
| 10 | Head Inferno 50 Badminton Racket | Check Price on Amazon |
Badminton Rackets Under 1500
Let’s begin with:
1. Hundred Rock 88 Carbon Racket
The Hundred Rock 88 is a head-heavy badminton racket weighing 78–82 grams and having a balance point of 300 mm.
The racket is manufactured using Japan-made graphite for optimum technical service life. It holds a 7 mm thick and flexible shaft, which helps to transfer the force into the shots and improve your smashes.
Talking about its string tension, it can easily bear about 32 lbs, and higher string tension is preferred by advanced attacking players for higher shot power.
Technologies and special features
Hundred has manufactured the Rock 88 Carbon Racket with these features:
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Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology refers to the frame made using a unique carbon fiber material, which makes the racket more durable and resistant to impact.
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The Curve frame
Seventy-six grommets are housed in a curve frame designed to accommodate them. The unique frame increases the racket’s sweet spot by 8%, perfectly balancing the primary and cross-string intersections. It causes a noticeable sweet spot, which improves power and control with each hit.
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New grommet pattern
A new grommet pattern is generally designed to reduce friction, improve string tension, and provide long-lasting life.
Who should buy it?
The Hundred Rock 88 racket best suits beginners and intermediate-level players with attacking-style gameplay.
Pros
- Durable.
- Budget-friendly.
- It holds a flexible shaft.
- Ideal for offensive gameplay.
- Best for beginners and intermediates.
- It allows you to play powerful and fast smashes.
Cons
- Not suitable for advanced and professional players.
2. Yonex Voltric Lite 25i
Yonex introduced the Voltric Lite 25i racket in 2021, focusing on beginners. You have the benefit of being able to deliver smashes quickly with this high-quality starter racket.
While the head-heavy balance helps generate more extraordinary power, the highly flexible graphite racket’s quick recovery time makes it easier to execute strong shots. The isometric head is more accommodating when the shuttlecock is hit over a wider sweet spot.
Technologies and special features
Yonex has manufactured the Voltric Lite 25i racket with these features:
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Tri-voltage system
Tri voltage system is indulged in the Yonex Voltric series, the weight is distributed among the head of the frame and the common area, providing good handling while maintaining power.
The thin sides of the racket’s frame and head help further reduce air resistance and improve handling. Also, it allows the players to swing the racket fully, even while playing short rallies.
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New built-in T-joint
This racket is built with a T-joint, which helps reduce torque from both the frame and shaft and the lateral twisting of the frame in off-center shots for a better transfer of power and control.
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Aero+box frame
The aero+box frame’s aerodynamic design cuts air resistance for a faster swing. Also, it contoured the racket and combined a solid hitting feel.
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New grommet pattern
More grommet holes are available because the single-pass grommet hole structure allows for a more effective stringing pattern.
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Control support cap
Compared to a standard racquet, the control support cap offers an 88% broader flat surface for better grip, quicker follow-through, and sharper agility.
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Isometric head shape
The isometric head shape of this racket generates a more prominent sweet spot by optimizing the intersection of the leading and cross strings.
Who should buy it?
The Yonex Voltric 25i badminton racket is typically suitable for beginner- to intermediate-level players looking to balance power and maneuverability. Also, this racket is a perfect match for those players who want to maintain accuracy and precision in their shots while still having sufficient power.
Pros
- Easy to handle and maneuver.
- Lightweight badminton racket.
- Also, it holds a comfortable grip.
- It allows you to hit powerful smashes.
- Best for beginners and intermediate players.
Cons
- Not suitable for advanced and professional players.
3. Yonex ZR 100 Light
Beginners and intermediates use the Yonex ZR-100 light badminton racquet. The steel shaft has low torsion, enabling the user to swing the racket easily.
Its head-heavy racket lets you make powerful strokes with minimum effort. It is best for attacking gameplay and suitable for beginners and intermediate players to seek rackets that help them with power.
It is one of the best choices for those looking to have fast racket-handling skills in the future and those who need more money to shell out.
Technologies and special features
Yonex has manufactured a ZR 100 Light racket with these features:
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Isometric head shape
Yonex ZR 100 Light holds an isometric head shape designed to offer a similar length of the vertical string as a horizontal one. The isometric head shape gives better stability, and its enlarged sweet spot allows players to perform powerful shots.
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Aluminum frame with steel shaft
This racket holds an aluminum frame and steel shaft, as aluminum and steel are the two materials that are always recommended for beginners. As they progress in their journey in badminton, they will shift to graphite racket.
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Low torsion steel shaft
Yonex ZR 100 Light racket is made with a low torsion steel shaft, which reduces the chances of twisting the racket shaft and makes it easy for beginners to handle.
Who should buy it?
This racket is best for amateur, beginners, and intermediate players, who prefer quick reactions and precision during the game.
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- Robust and durable.
- It holds a large sweet spot.
- It is available in 5 different colour variants.
- Best for beginners, intermediate, and amateur players.
Cons
- Not a single racket frame.
- Not suitable for advanced and professional players.
4. Yonex GR 303
Yonex GR 303 is a slightly heavyweight racket weighing 95–99.9 grams. It is similar to the Yonex ZR 100 Light, as it is a stiff racket that can bear high string tension of up to 18 lbs, which is quite effective for beginners and intermediate players.
Rather than this, it holds a T-Joint, which comes in 5 colour options, and a G4 grip size, which is ideal for players of all age groups and will help swing with great accuracy.
Technologies and special features
Yonex has manufactured the GR 303 racket with these features:
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Isometric head shape
Yonex GR 303 holds an isometric head shape, which generally refers to the racket’s head shape squared off at the head’s tip, designed to keep vertical strings at a similar length and the horizontal strings to produce an expanded sweet spot in all directions.
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Built-in T-joint
T-joint reduces torque from both the frame and shaft and the lateral twisting of the frame in off-center shots for a better transfer of power and control.
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Stiff shaft
Yonex GR 303 holds a stiff shaft, which is light enough to float on water yet withstand immense forces. In addition, it allows for maximum shock absorption.
Who should buy it?
Yonex GR 303 is one of the best rackets for beginners and intermediate players who like to play with a slightly heavier racket.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Slightly stiff.
- Budget-friendly.
- It comes with a fantastic grip.
- It holds a low torsion steel shaft.
- Suitable for intermediate players.
Cons
- The T-Joint is slightly weaker.
- Not suitable for professionals and advanced players.
5. Yonex Astrox Lite 21i
The Yonex Astrox Lite 21i is a part of Yonex’s Astrox series. It is designed to provide power and maneuverability, making it suitable for many players, including beginners and intermediate-level players. It is made of durable material: graphite, and weighs around 77 grams, making it one of the lightweight rackets on this list.
Although the Yonex Astrox Lite 21i and Voltric Lite are relatively similar, the Astrox Lite’s angle of attack is steeper due to the rotational generator system. Cutting-edge nanomesh Neo technology boosts shuttle speed in longer strokes due to greater flexibility. Still, on slower shots, its stiffness aids players in controlling close-range shots.
Rather than this, Astrox Lite 21i features an isometric head shape, which provides a more prominent sweet spot on the string bed. It can contribute to improved power and forgiveness, minimizing the impact of off-center shots.
Technologies and special features
Yonex has manufactured the Astrox Lite 21i racket with these features:
Yonex generally uses nanomesh material to manufacture its rackets. It improves racket stability and allows players to play shots with more control and precision.
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Slim shaft
The Yonex Astrox Lite 21i holds a slim shaft designed to slice through the air, generating speedy power.
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Aero+box frame
The racket’s aero box frame design helps reduce air resistance and allows you to swing it faster and generate more power.
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Control support cap
The control support cap offers an 88% wider flat surface than a typical racquet for smoother gripping, quick follow-through, and the finest mobility.
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Rotational generator system
The rotational generator system uses the counterbalance theory, and the weight is spread over the grip end, frame top, and joint for maximum control. Rapid succession allows for a smooth transition to the subsequent shot.
Who should buy it?
Yonex Astrox Lite 21i was launched in 2021 and was specially designed for those players who like the easy handling of a lightweight racket to destroy their opponents with powerful and sharp smashes.
Also learn: How to improve your smashes?
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to handle.
- Budget-friendly.
- An ideal racket to play near the net.
- Best for beginners and intermediate players.
- It allows you to play fast and powerful smashes.
Cons
- Not suitable for advanced and professional players.
6. Yonex Nanoray 6000I
Yonex Nanoray 6000i is suitable for all-around badminton players, but it is generally designed for those players who seek fast movement and effortless power with a comfortable feel.
The Yonex Nanoray 6000i is made of graphite and tungsten, which provides an incredibly lightweight yet durable frame. It also features an isometric head shape that gives you increased power in your shots.
It is a decent and lightweight racket that weighs between 75-80 grams and is available in the G4 grip size. And the best thing about this racket is that it can easily bear high string tension up to 28 lbs.
Technologies and special features
Yonex has manufactured the Nanoray 6000i racket with these features:
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Stiffer shaft
It holds an ultra-PEF (ultra polyethylene fiber)-constructed shaft, which is light enough to float on water yet withstand immense forces. In addition, it allows for maximum shock absorption.
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Nanomesh neo technology
Nanomesh and carbon nanotubes are exclusive structural materials inserted in the racket shaft or frame. And the accurate placement of CS carbon nanotubes in the racket frame has enhanced the elasticity of the frame’s repulsion power, toughness, and strength. In addition, it results in holding the shuttlecock on a badminton racket string bed for longer.
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Isometric head shape
The isometric head shape enlarges the racket’s sweet spot and helps the player hit off-center shots with more power.
Who should buy it?
This racket is best for players serious about improving their game. It offers excellent power, speed, and accuracy while being lightweight and durable enough to withstand even the most brutal matches.
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- Best for beginners.
- Easy to control and handle.
- It provides incredible power and stability for the players.
Cons
- Very lightweight.
- Not suitable for professional players.
7. Yonex Nanoray 7000I
The frame and shaft of the Nanoray 7000i comprise graphite and aluminum, allowing you to perform fast racket swings, powerful strokes, and quick repulsion.
It is an even-balanced racquet specially designed for beginners and intermediate players. The Nanoray 7000i weighs about 80 grams, which makes it a lightweight racket.
Talking about its specifications, let me inform you that the frame of Nanoray 7000i is designed using an Aero-type cross-section, which helps reduce air resistance and results in better racket handling.
It also holds an isometric head shape, designed to offer a similar length of the vertical string as a horizontal string.
Technologies and special features
Yonex has manufactured a Nanoray 7000i racket with these features indulged in it:
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Built-in T-joint
Yonex Nanoray 7000i is built in T-Joint, which helps increase the shuttle’s stability on the strings, maximizing power and control.
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Box frame
A box-frame design has an ultra-stiff profile that increases racket strength and provides a solid feel to the players while hitting the shuttlecock.
Who should buy it?
Yonex Nanoray 7000i suits beginners and intermediate badminton players who love to perform hard drive shots and smashes. This racket is even-balanced, making it easy to handle and use.
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- Easy to use and handle.
- Even-balanced racket.
- This racket is available in different colour variants, like blue and red.
- It holds an isometric head shape, which generates a more prominent sweet spot.
Cons
- Not suitable for professional-level players.
8. Cosco CB-150 E Aluminum Badminton Racket
The CB-150E aluminum racket is designed and manufactured by one of the top sports brands, Cosco. It is a head-light racket that weighs around 95 grams and is one of the ideal rackets for beginners and intermediate players.
The frame and the racket shaft are made of aluminum, making it durable and robust. Also, it is loaded with many of the latest technologies and features, which you will learn about below.
And the best thing about this racket is that it comes in multiple colors and is readily available in the market and online stores.
Technologies and special features
Cosco has manufactured a CB-150E aluminum racket with these features:
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Built-in T-Joint
T-Joint refers to the joint that helps connect the frame to the shaft and is embedded with carbon particles to reduce vibration and strengthen the fusing of the two.
This construction reduces torque from both the frame and shaft and the lateral twisting of the frame in off-center shots for a better transfer of power and control.
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Dual whip-back shaft
This technology creates a flexible shaft that stores and releases energy efficiently, which generates more power and speed while hitting the shuttlecock.
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Power boost cap
Power Boost Cap holds a unique shape that helps in maximizing shaft performance. The front of the cap allows for greater shaft flex, whereas the broader surface of the cap transmits power to the shuttle. The increased width of the cap stabilizes the racquet face by preventing the shaft from twisting.
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Anti-torsion shaft
Anti-torsion shaft minimizes the twisting or torsion of the racket during powerful shots, providing stability and control.
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Nanotechnology
Nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes or nanofibers, reinforce the racket structure, making it lighter, stronger, and more responsive.
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Aero-box frame
This design incorporates a combination of aero and box shapes, resulting in a more aerodynamic frame that reduces air resistance and allows faster swing speeds.
Who should buy it?
The Cosco CB-150E aluminum racket is best for beginners, intermediates, and those players who have just started playing badminton and are learning essential skills.
Pros
- Easy to handle.
- Budget-friendly.
- Robust and Durable.
- It holds a flexible shaft.
- An ideal racket for beginners and intermediate players.
Cons
- It does not provide better control and power.
- Not suitable for advanced and professional players.
9. Apacs Finapi 232 Racket
The Apacs Finapi 232 is a lightweight racket weighing about 85 grams, which allows you to move quickly around the court without being weighed down by your equipment.
This racket is mainly designed for those badminton players with solid and effortless gameplay, as this racket offers impressive control and power to the players while hitting the shuttle or swinging the racket.
However, it is also suitable for intermediate-advanced players. Rather than this, it holds a fantastic design with an isometric head shape, providing a more prominent sweet spot and a high-tensile slim shaft.
Technologies and special features
Apacs has manufactured the Finapi 232 racket with these features:
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The high tensile slim shaft
The shaft comprises ultra-strong material; the racket has optimum rigidity to bear higher tension for exact and steady strokes. In addition, the shaft body is proven to have the perfect balance of weight, movement inertia, and aerodynamics.
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Isometric head shape
The isometric technology generally refers to the racket’s head shape squared off at the head’s tip that is designed to keep the vertical strings at a similar length, as well as the horizontal strings, to produce an expanded sweet spot in all directions.
Who should buy it?
The Apacs Finapi 232 racket allows you to perform powerful smashes, precise drop shots, and flicks, making it one of the best choices for players with offensive and aggressive gameplay.
Pros
- Long-lasting.
- Value of money.
- Budget-friendly.
- It provides excellent control.
- It’s best to perform powerful smashes.
- An ideal match for aggressive gameplay.
Cons
- Not suitable for beginners.
10. Head Inferno 50 Badminton Racket
The Inferno 50 racket is designed and manufactured by Head, one of the best-known brands. The brand Head is known for producing various sporting goods, including tennis rackets, ski equipment, snowboards, and badminton rackets.
Talking about its features, the racket weighs around 94 grams, which is slightly heavier in comparison to the other rackets mentioned here on this entire list. Also, it has an isometric head shape and a slim shaft, contributing to its power and responsiveness on the court.
Rather than this, the Head Inferno 50 badminton racket is designed for recreational and intermediate players. It features a lightweight frame made of durable materials, such as graphite or aluminum alloy, which helps provide good maneuverability and control during gameplay.
Technologies and special features
Head has manufactured the Inferno 50 racket with these features:
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Isometric head shape
Head Inferno 50 holds an isometric head shape designed to offer a similar length of the vertical string as a horizontal one. The isometric head shape gives better stability, and its enlarged sweet spot allows players to perform powerful shots.
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HM graphite
The racket comprises a high-quality material, HM graphite, which provides strength, stiffness, and lightness to the racket frame.
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Flexible shaft
The flexible shaft of the racket offers excellent maneuverability and ease of use, especially for beginners and intermediates.
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Comfortable grip
The Head Inferno 50 also has an easy grip that provides more comfort and control and minimizes vibrations.
Who should buy it?
The Head Inferno 50 racket is an ideal match for beginners, intermediates, and recreational players who love to play club matches and tournaments and seek fast movement and effortless power with a comfortable feel.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Budget-friendly.
- Comfortable grip.
- Easy to handle and control.
- Well-suited for beginners, intermediates, and recreational players.
Cons
- Not suitable for advanced and professional players.
Final Words
These were some of the top badminton rackets, which are budget-friendly and readily available for under 1500 INR in the market and online stores.
And yes, do not doubt the quality and durability of these rackets, as they are designed and manufactured by top brands like Yonex, Apacs, Cosco, Hundred, and Head.
Also, remember that choosing a badminton racket is subjective and depends on your playing style, skill level, and personal preference. Finding a racket that feels comfortable and suits your style of play is essential.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab one according to your skills and game level.