Best Badminton Rackets in India (2026)
Last updated: 16 October 2026 · 6 min read
Which badminton racket should you buy? It depends on how well you play and how much you want to spend. Here are three rackets sold in India: one for beginners, one for regular players, and one for players comparing a head-heavy option. For each one, we say who it suits and what is not so good.
- For regular playersYonex Arcsaber 11 PlayA few games a week
- For first-time playersDecathlon Perfly BR 100First-time and casual play
- For experienced playersYonex Astrox 99 ProHard smashes, back of the court
Find your racket
Two quick questions. This only repeats what the guide says below. It is not a test.
| Racket | Good for | Weight | Feel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yonex Arcsaber 11 Play | Beginners who want to improve, and regular players | Light (4U, about 83 g) | Medium flex; graphite frame |
| Decathlon Perfly BR 100 Set Starter | Occasional beginners | 105 g, per Decathlon India | Head-heavy, semi-stiff (maker specification) |
| Yonex Astrox 99 Pro | Strong players who smash a lot | 4UG5 (verify exact generation) | Heavy at the top, very stiff |
Compare two rackets
Pick any two. The details come from the table above.
Our three picks
Yonex Arcsaber 11 Play
Verdict: A medium-flex graphite racket to compare for regular play. Try its grip and feel before choosing.
Yonex lists the Arcsaber 11 Play as a graphite-frame, graphite-shaft racket with medium flex. Its published specification gives 4U, an average of 83 g, and G5 or G6 grips. Stringing advice is 19–27 lb for 4U.
Use those details to check the exact listing. Whether strings are supplied depends on the seller’s pack; do not assume it arrives ready to play. We have not measured power, handling or durability and do not claim that it outperforms every alternative.
Good
- Manufacturer publishes weight class, grip options and stringing advice.
- Medium flex is clearly specified.
Not so good
- Grip and strung/unstrung condition need checking on the exact listing.
- No play-test comparison from SAT.
Opens a search on the shop. We do not sell products or take payments.
Decathlon Perfly BR 100 Set Starter
Verdict: A beginner-labelled set for occasional games, with contents and weight stated on the India page.
Decathlon India lists the BR 100 starter set with two rackets, two plastic shuttlecocks and a cover. Its technical data gives 105 g per racket, a 665 mm length and a 313 mm balance. The page describes an aluminium frame, steel shaft, head-heavy balance and semi-stiff flex.
We would compare this set for occasional family play rather than assume it feels like a lighter graphite club racket. Check the pack contents at checkout and try the grip if possible. The manufacturer’s beginner label is useful context, not a guarantee that every player will find it comfortable.
Good
- Two-racket pack with shuttles and cover listed.
- India page provides materials, weight and balance.
Not so good
- The published 105 g is heavier than the Arcsaber specification here.
- Set contents and suitability need checking for your intended game.
Opens a search on the shop. We do not sell products or take payments.
Yonex Astrox 99 Pro
Verdict: A head-heavy option for experienced players to compare; verify the exact model generation before ordering.
Yonex USA lists an Astrox 99 Pro in 4UG5 with head-heavy balance, extra-stiff flex and 20–28 lb stringing advice. It identifies the racket as unstrung. These are the manufacturer’s specifications for that listing, not confirmation of every India marketplace version.
Different generations and seller packs can share a similar name. Compare the model code, grip, stringing limits and warranty provider on the exact Indian listing. We have not measured smash speed or defensive handling, and we do not repeat unsupported comparisons with other rackets.
Good
- Manufacturer clearly states balance and shaft flex.
- Published stringing advice for the listed 4UG5 version.
Not so good
- Extra-stiff flex needs trying rather than assuming it suits a beginner.
- Generation, strings and local warranty need checking.
Opens a search on the shop. We do not sell products or take payments.
How to choose a badminton racket
Check the model. Match the model code and generation before comparing listings. A similar product name does not establish the same specification.
Try the grip and weight. Printed weight classes describe a range, not how a racket will feel in your hand. Try a comfortable grip and controlled swing before choosing.
Read stringing instructions. Use the advice for the exact racket and weight class. Ask a qualified stringer if you are unsure, and confirm whether the seller supplies strings.
Check the complete cost. Compare the current price, any stringing cost and delivery. Verify seller identity and warranty coverage before paying.
Common questions
What is the difference between a head-heavy and a head-light racket?
A head-heavy racket has more weight at the top. How that balance feels depends on the player and the rest of the racket’s design. A head-light racket has more weight near the handle. Try the balance rather than assuming it will improve your game. An even-balance model sits between those descriptions.
Should I buy a racket that comes with strings?
For a beginner, yes. It is ready to play and usually strung at a gentle tension. Many mid-range and premium rackets come without strings so you can choose your own. If you buy one of those, set aside money for stringing, and ask the shop to follow the maximum tension printed on your racket.
When should a beginner buy a better racket?
When your game changes, not on a fixed date. For example, when you play often and feel the racket is holding back your power or control, or when the frame is damaged. Ask a coach or stringer whether a change of grip or strings would help before replacing the frame.
Is the racket the same on Amazon, Flipkart and Decathlon?
Do not assume listings contain the same generation or pack. Some sellers send it strung and some do not. Grip size and colour can also vary. Read the listing carefully, buy from an authorised seller when you can, and check the markings on the racket when it arrives.
Sources we used
Manufacturer and retailer specifications checked on 16 October 2026. Yonex’s overseas pages describe model specifications; local stock, packs and policies must be checked with the Indian seller.