This article will rate and review the best badminton rackets for intermediate players.
As a player who aspires to become unbeatable at this game, you know how important it is to get the right badminton racket. Whether you’re looking for more power or more control, the below list will help you out.
Without wasting any time, let’s jump into it.
Yonex Astrox 99 Play
(Best overall)
Sizes: G5
Material: Graphite
Pros
A larger sweet spot lets you hit the shuttlecock with power and accuracy. That will also be the case even if the shuttlecock doesn’t hit the very center of the racket head, making it easier for you to hit point-winning shots.
The tungsten-infused nylon bumper allows maximum force transfer. This means that most of the force you’ll generate to hit the shot will be transferred to the shuttlecock, reducing the chances of your opponent making a good return.
A slim shaft allows for more control and precision. As such, it enables intermediate players like you to place shots more accurately and with more consistency. Plus, the shaft’s thinness has made this racket a cinch to maneuver.
Medium flex makes the racket less prone to breakage, especially when compared to flexible or stiff rackets. For this reason, you can count on the Astrox 99 Play to be a durable and long-lasting option.
Cons
Its added weight may cause fatigue in your arms and shoulders. As you might guess, this may hurt your stamina and, by extension, performance.
Summary
The Yonex Astrox 99 Play G5 has an enlarged sweet spot to let you hit shots with more power and accuracy. Furthermore, this racket’s medium flex makes it less susceptible to breakage, helping it provide great value for the money.
Buy the Yonex Astrox 99 Play on Amazon
- Go in-depth: Best Yonex Badminton Rackets
Wilson Fierce C1500
Sizes: G4
Material: Carbon Fiber
Pros
Carbon fiber frame is more responsive than graphite. You can thus count on the Fierce C1500 to provide better feedback and control. Another benefit of carbon fiber frames is improved shock absorption, thereby less muscle fatigue.
Control balance offers a comfortable grip and a soft feel when hitting shots. The result? Better control over the shuttlecock and an enhanced ability to execute delicate shots with higher accuracy.
The isometric shape reduces the likelihood of mis-hits. One of the main benefits of this racket’s isometric shape is that it will allow you to impart more power to your shots, making it especially useful for attack-minded players.
Cons
Does not come with a cover. For a racket that doesn’t come cheap, the fact that it doesn’t come with a cover is a glaring error on Wilson’s part.
Summary
The Wilson Fierce C1500 is an incredibly responsive badminton racket that helps you impart greater force to your shots. At the same time, it has the maneuverability which means you can pull off delicate shots with greater ease.
Buy the Wilson Fierce C1500 on Amazon
Li-Ning G-Force Superlite 3700
Sizes: G4
Material: Carbon Fiber
Pros
High string tension helps you impart more power to your shots. That is because a tighter string bed can store more energy, before transferring it to the shuttlecock when it is hit. This can be equally useful for point-winning smashes as well as cross-court clears.
Aerotec Beam System has improved this racket’s aerodynamics. This means you’d be able to easily manoeuvre the racket in your hands, enhancing your ability to play ‘trick’ shots with more ease.
Head-heavy balance can improve your stamina and endurance. That is because the added weight at the racket’s head makes this model feel lighter overall, reducing strain on your arm and shoulder muscles, making this model a must-have for intermediate players working on their overall fitness on the court.
Cons
Pricey for an intermediate-level badminton racket. Self-explanatory.
Summary
The Li-Ning G Force Superlite 3700 has an aerodynamic shape, making this model a cinch to maneuver in your hands. Furthermore, its head-heavy balance and high string tension help you impart maximum power to your shots.
Buy the Li-Ning G-Force Superlite 3700 on Amazon
Yonex Muscle Power
Sizes: 3 3/4 inches
Material: Graphite, Carbon Fiber
Pros
A shockless graphite frame reduces vibrations for enhanced comfort. At the same time, it improves the feel of the racket and extends its durability, helping you get a good return on your investment.
Rounded archways allow for a larger sweet spot. This will make this racket especially useful for intermediate players who are yet to develop the control of their advanced counterparts. Plus, a larger sweet spot allows for a greater margin of error, thereby reducing the frequency of mis-hits.
A relatively long shaft gives you better reach. As a result, you’d be better able to cover more of the court, a benefit that might come in handy if you’re looking to improve the defensive side of your game.
Cons
A bit on the heavier side. So, you may have to work on your arms’ strength to hit quick returns and powerful smashes.
Summary
The Yonex Muscle Power boasts a shockless graphite frame for added comfort, control, and durability. Furthermore, its long shaft lets you easily cover every area of the court.
Buy the Yonex Muscle Power on Amazon
Yonex Carbonex 8000 plus
Sizes: G5
Material: Graphite
Pros
Super-lightweight construction allows for increased maneuverability. In addition, it allows for faster swings, an enhanced reaction time, and reduced fatigue, thereby improving your overall game.
A balanced construction allows for greater accuracy and control. As noted in our badminton racket buying guide, a balanced construction makes it easier for you to place the shuttlecock wherever you want.
Comes with a full-size case. Therefore, you can rest assured that this model will be protected from the elements when not in use.
Cons
Shaft might be too stiff for some players. A stiff racket can be difficult to control, especially during fast-paced rallies. This can lead to more errors and unforced mistakes, which can be frustrating for intermediate players who are still trying to improve their game.
Summary
The Yonex Carbonex 8000 Plus boasts a super-lightweight construction for increased maneuverability and reduced risk of injury, making it a must-have for intermediate players who are trying to level up their game.
Buy the Yonex Carbonex 8000 Plus on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
You might want to look for a racket with a medium to stiff shaft as an intermediate player. Such a model will offer the right balance between control and balance.
Also, make sure that the racket has a graphite or carbon fiber frame. Sure, such models tend to be more expensive. But they also offer superior shock-absorbing properties and are durable.
It depends. If you like playing with a racket that is easy to maneuver and allows you to generate more power, a racket with a head-light balance might be better for you. However, if you want more control, opt for a head-heavy balance.
