Let's face it, no matter how hard you will be trying to win a game there is no change of winning if your racket is poor. Especially when you are a intermediate player it is crucial to have the right racket. That is why today we will be talking about which is the best badminton racket for intermediate players. Among them, the test winner is Yonex Voltric 5 Badminton Racket.
If you are playing badminton for a while and want a killer combination of smash and control, you can read our guide about best badminton racket for smash and control.
Best intermediate badminton racket - comparison table
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Best badminton racket for intermediate player reviews
So let's put an end on searching badminton racket which is best for intermediate player. Here is the complete list of rackets market are currently offering.
Rank#01 - Yonex Voltric 5 Badminton Racket
Voltric 5 got huge success when it managed to amaze several players with its performance. Want to know it is called the best Yonex badminton racket for intermediate players?
Basically, this is a very head heavy racket. But the best thing is that it gives superb control as you will find it easy to handle. Not just that, it also helps greatly in maneuvering the racket making it one of the best racket for beginner player.
You also cannot go wrong with Voltric 5 when it comes to the clears. And it won’t even take much of your effort to make them go farthest. You can thank the technology or the heaviness of the racket for this.
Moreover, you will also find yourself to swing easily with the racket. That’s all again because of its head heavy attribute.
But hold on. don’t get so happy. You might not like the quality of the stringing as most of the people complained about it. As the strings are likely to fall apart, you might find yourself often restringing it.
Besides, the racket can also cause pain in your wrists as it is stated to be heavy. Although, it won’t affect your performance, but still that’s a minor con to be taken into account.
Strengths: easy handling, superb control, amazing job with clears, easy swinging.
Weaknesses: can cause wrist pain, low quality stringing.
Rank#02 - Yonex Nanoray 900 Badminton Racket
Nanoray 900 is a racket that can be your best mate in badminton. It will give you power as well as speed to shock your opponent.
Nanoray 900 is stated to have a revolutionary frame that will help suppress the shuttle’s angle so you can get a complete new angle to strike. Hence, the racket has a lot of smashing power to offer.
Let us clarify you that, it is a head light racket in its nature. So, you can guess that it will have immense speed to act on as you swing it through the air. So, we give it a big salute for being such speedy.
When it comes to the control, there won’t be any compromise. So, it will give you equal amount of control to maneuver the racket the way you want. Thanks to its lightweight nature.
Apart from offering awesome performance, it also has solid durability to last long. So, it will stay with you in a number of matches.
However, if you are a single player, you might not love the racket. Because, it works more phenomenal in double play than in single play. So, make sure you have a partner with you to own the court with it.
Strengths: massive power, super speedy, offers plenty of control, solid frame.
Weaknesses: not for single players,
Rank#03 - Yonex Arcsaber 10 Badminton Racket
It’s a work of art! That is what a player has quoted about this best badminton racket from Yonex. Arcsaber 10 has a lot of features to love about. But let’s know about both the positive and negative aspects of it.
The racket comes with a lighter head that offers fast movement changes. Although, it weighs overall heavy but that helps a lot in keeping the path of racket stable.
The racket is able to perform deadly in both the front and rear court. And as it is extremely easy to maneuver, it helps the racket shine rewarding you faster reactions. For this, you will get to enjoy quick driving exchanges and cutoffs. All of these have been only possible for the great construction of the shaft.
Arcsaber 10 also tends to be a striking choice when it comes to the net plays, serves and clears. Because of its well-rounded design, it impressed almost all the people.
Moreover, the racket has an isometric technology for which you will love having its wider sweet spot. It helps a lot in enriching the chances of getting accurate shots just like you wish for.
However, it fails to be a smasher’s first choice as it comes with poor smashing power. This is where you will need to think twice for having the racket if you are a beginner. It is probably one of the best badminton racket for intermediate player. Overall, it is a great item to have in your inventory.
Strengths: quick responses, Well-rounded design, Easy maneuverability, Bigger sweet spot.
Weaknesses: poor smashing power, not for beginners.
Rank#04 - Yonex Nanoray Z Speed badminton racket
Great balance, weight and frame structure, this is what Nanoray by Yonex is all about. But wait. That’s not the end. It has other benefits to enjoy as well.
As it is a very light racket, you will love its responsiveness. Because, it is able to cut the wind quick through the air so you will be able to relish your reflexes better. Thus, it would be a great feature to have for players especially defenders.
Not just that, due to its well-balanced nature, it also helps give you more confidence by not tiring your wrists or arms. And this is a big plus.
Speaking more of its advantages, you will also love its smashing power as it is light. So, you can expect it to make consistence smashes and love the performance.
In addition to this, it also shines bright when it comes to making consistence beats. And as it is amazing with clears, you simply just cannot stop yourself from owning it.
But one thing you should know that it has been marked as shorter durable racket. Because a few players who have used it mentioned that the grip and the frame were found flimsy. So, there is a big chance that you might face such issues.
Strengths: Cuts fast, lightweight, great for defense, balanced, makes consistent smashes, makes consistent beat.
Weaknesses: low quality grip, frame is not durable.
Rank#05 - Yonex Duora 10 Badminton Racket
Not all the stuffs with two faces are bad. When you will meet Duora 10 by Yonex, you will understand why I said that.
The very first combination that will enchant you about Duora 10 is its box frame and its aero frame. The box frame is the reason for which you can enjoy giving powerful shots. And the aero frame is the reason for which you can enjoy quick responsiveness with reduced air resistance.
Having the finest shaft, Duora 10 knows where to hit you with wonders. Although it requires a little time to use it properly. But once you get the techniques, the ball will be in your court. Coming with increased aerodynamics, it will let you swing faster than most of the other rackets.
Another great thing about the racket is the it comes with wider frame. So, you will find it having a bigger sweet spot making your strikes most effective.
As it has been mentioned that the racket comes with two sides. So, you can use each with different styles. And you will get both power and control from the racket.
Be it making clears or running a difficult smash, you will love using the racket. But for defense, it’s different. You might not consider this racket for defensive game as it is not very fast to be used for defense. Otherwise it makes a great choice.
Strengths: swings faster, bigger sweet spot, massive smashing power, great control.
Weaknesses: takes time to use it properly, weak in defensive game.
Rank#06 - Yonex Arcsaber Z Slash Badminton Racket
Z slash tends to be another best badminton racket that can enchant you with its awestruck performances. Don’t believe? You surely will.
If you wish to own a racket that will have both power and control, then you must have a look at this. it has proven itself to be a great choice for hard-hitting attacker as it helps you smash powerfully much to your opponent’s surprise.
Want control? Then enjoy having complete control of the racket as well as the game, because the racket will offer you that.
Not only power and control, the racket also has amazing aerodynamic design that makes it super easy to maneuver and responsive.
However, as it is ideal for advanced players, so few of them might take time to use it properly. But all of it depends on the technique. Once you get it right, you can control the court and the game.
If you want a racket for defense, then we would rather suggest you to skip it. Because, it does no good to defenders.
Strengths: wonderful combination of power and control, great aerodynamic design, ideal for advanced players, swings speedily.
Weaknesses: takes time to use it properly, weak in defense.
Rank#07 - Yonex Voltric 7 Badminton Racket
Let your racket do the talking with this amazing Voltric 7 by Yonex. It also has all the features that the best badminton racket should have.
Although it has been termed as a head heavy racket mostly, but still it feels light enough to hold for a long time without any fatigue. For this, you won’t even have any kind of pain in your wrists which we found as a big plus.
Besides, you are going to love this racket in a defensive game. As it feels light to hold, you will require minimal effort from your part to hit on a defense. Result? It will be representing a high level of responsiveness.
Not only that, you will also love its crisp feel as you swing it. The sides of the frame have been found slimmer that help in reducing air resistance. And this is the reason why you will love to swing in quick.
However, you might love the control of the racket, but it won’t give you that much of power which you expect. The racket has power but you will find it somewhat average.
Another gripe that people highlighted is its low quality stringing. So you might need to restring it quite often.
Strengths: fast defense, brings you plenty of control, lightweight, no pain in your wrists, quick swinging.
Weaknesses: average power, low quality stringing.
Rank#08 - Yonex Voltric 1DG Badminton Racket
Do you love the blend of heavy smashes and quick handling? Then Voltric 1DG should be your pick. Why? take a look at the advantage and disadvantage first.
Voltric 1DG has been made up of high elasticity high modulus graphite. That makes it a very durable item in the industry. So players, if your weak rackets are troubling you, then take it into account.
The best thing about the racket is that it has a wider sweet spot. So, you will find it easy enough to smash the shuttle effectively.
It also brings us to highlight its smashing power. Yes, the racket will have immense smashing power to relish so you can perform well both in front and rear court.
Moreover, for its Tri-voltage system, you will also get to enjoy its easy handling and heavy smashes. So, you will find it to be very responsive to the attacks.
However, the thing you might hate the most about the racket is its heaviness. Obviously, its head heavy brings all the positive sides, but the only concern is that it will exhaust your hands quickly. And you might end up having pain your wrists. Or else, you should definitely have it.
Strengths: very durable, biggest sweet spot, immense smashing power, easy handling, quick responsiveness.
Weaknesses: can cause pain in wrists.
Rank#09 - Yonex Nanospeed 9900 Badminton Racket
Are you a smash based hitter? Because if you are, then you might wish to have this best badminton racket which is Nanospeed 9900. You can consider it as the best yonex badminton racket out there. Why? have a look at its upsides and downsides, first.
This is a light head racket so you can already guess how much speed you can get to witness by using this. So, you can also expect that you will be getting superior power while swinging it through the air.
In addition, the same feature also makes it highly agile. It means, you will find it to be quick responsive that will make your smash effective as the shuttle lands your net.
The racket has easy maneuverability feature that manages to attract almost all the smash based hitters. Because, this is what they want from a racket.
Another great thing is, due to its lightness, you can also play with it for longer time without any pain in your wrists.
You will also love its gripping. Because the racket won’t be sliding down from your hand due to sweat. And for this, we give it a big thumb up.
However, there is only one issue found with the racket which is its string falling apart. You can blame the low quality material of the strings. However, for tis performance, you can ignore that.
Strengths: superior smashing power, better gripping, highly agile, easy to maneuver, no pain in your wrists.
Weaknesses: low quality string.
Rank#10 - Yonex Nanoray 20 Badminton Racket
Are you struggling to get a perfect defense weapon? Then have this amazing racket from Yonex named Nanoray Z Speed.
You are going to adore this racket, if you are a defender. You will find it having a faster reaction time. And since it has an ideal weight, it will let your response quick with an attack from the other side.
Although, you might get upset with its smashing power as its average. But being a defender, you might not care about this con. Otherwise, it could make you think twice to go and grab it.
However, back to bright side. The racket has been also called to be one of the fastest rackets in the industry. And people are loving it. So, we will give more points for the trait.
The best part about the racket is that it does terrific job with clear. Not just that, you will also find it wonderful enough to deliver brawny net kills and net shots.
However, the construction can be disappointing. People griped about the frame being weak enough to fall apart. So, short lifespan can be a little disadvantage. Other than that, this is the best badminton racket for intermediate player.
Strengths: amazing for defense, superb speed, does amazing job with clears, delivers powerful net shots and kills.
Weaknesses: Weak built frame, poor smashing power.
How to choose the best intermediate badminton racket
Badminton Racket Technology
Racket, shoes and even shuttlecocks have been evolving since the year 2000. Playing with quality equipment would be beneficial for both indoor and outdoor. With the help of modern technology badminton racket’s shape, range, and weight have been improved in terms of quality. Typical wooden rackets are barely seen.
What rackets to choose based on technology
Cheap badminton rackets are made of steel or aluminum. Solid and good for recreational play, these types of rackets are good fit for beginners. Keep in mind that the Shaft of a cheap racket, which is one of the main element of a quality racket, is very technical and does not offer a real feeling of whipping.
Badminton rackets that are intendant to use for competitions or intermediate level play are made of graphite. Being light and particularly handy, these rackets are real gems of craftsmanship. Besides, badminton rackets can be made of titanium, Kevlar (yes, yes), or even nylon pieces for a sharper twisting effect.
Element of badminton racket
Although badminton remains a continuous pleasure, it is obvious to consider some features before buying the best badminton racket for intermediate player. Currently, markets are offering numerous variables, but we will bring together some tips and tricks that would move the needle further.
Composition of a badminton racket
As you all know that badminton rackets should be thin and flexible. Nonetheless, the weight and size might differ from model to model. These are not fixed criteria for each racket. Typically, a badminton racket may not go above 68 centimetres in length and 23 centimetres in width.
When talking about the sieve, the zone where the strings located, average length would 28 centimetres for 22 centimetres wide racket. The central rod is also known as the shaft, and the handle is also known as the grip.
Price, frequency of practice, power, flexibility, rigidity
When buying the best badminton racket for intermediate players, it is recommended that you should consider the frequency of practice. Are you going to use it for an occasional game or a regular practise or a competitive game?
The beginners should go for an entry-level racket (aluminium or steel), while intermediate or experienced players would opt for graphite rackets.
Warning: After practicing for a few months opt for lighter racket made of graphite or mix element to avoid possible back, arm and shoulder pain. If you want to go far, take care of your mount. Badminton rackets that weigh less than 85 grams consider as light rackets. Light rackets are handy but less powerful. A heavy racket weight would be around 95 grams which is powerful yet handy.
The price is another element you should consider before buying. Price may vary depending on brands, material, and distribution network. Don’t worry, we have already discussed some models above.
However, choice of a badminton racket mostly depends on the player’s playing style. If you are a power player, go for a flexible racket. On the other hand, if you love playing with technique, a more firm badminton racket would work better for you.
When buying the best badminton racket for intermediate players, don't look away from the importance of the sieve. Beginners should opt for a larger sieve to gain accuracy, but the power might be less. Remember that the softer the string is, the more powerful the strikes will be.
There are two types of sieves, isometric and conventional. The isometric sieve will give you more power in exchange of accuracy. While the conventional sieve is total opposite. It is apparent to find a perfect combination between the tension of the rope and the shape of the sieve.
One more thing we would love to advise that you should opt for one-piece rackets specially designed with a single piece. Needless to say that the typical “T” shaped rackets that have two parts: rod and sieve, are prone to deform easily.
Stem, grip and rope
Concerning the stem, you have two choices: rigid or flexible. A flexible racket offers more power on the shot but uncertain precision. If you prefer power to accuracy, then go for a flexible rod.
On the contrary, if you are talented enough to prevent opponent attacks, you should go for a rigid racket.
Don’t ignore the grip as it is one of the key elements of quality rackets. It mainly depends on the player’s hand size. A larger hand requires a wider grip for a comfortable hold. You can adjust grip wide using over-grip to get an excellent hold to large hands.
A little tip: Make sure that your grip must remain dry while playing unless there are chances to slip off from your hand. You can find some special grips out there that are specially designed for absorbing sweat to keep your grip dry
Finally, let’s talk about the rope. Concerning the rope, the rule is simple: the larger the diameter of the strings, the more the feeling of whipping disappears. The only advantage of a wide rope is its toughness. Keep in mind that wide string helps you play power shots. Furthermore, the tension of the string is also important. The lower tension string tends to give more power than accuracy. A perfect combination of diameter and tension could be a game-changer.
What type of player are you?
Now you have known all about all technical parameters you should be aware of, now let's focus on your gameplay. This undoubtedly put an effect on your future purchase. Here is some other consideration for a logical.
Striker: A striker would love to play a fast and technical game. If you are one of them, you should go for rigid or even very rigid racquets with an isometric head. For more power string tension should below.
Attack / Counter-attack: if you love to play offensive, you need to make a combination between dense phases and withdrawn phases. In such cases, a semi-rigid and light rackets will work best for you. Choose a racket with a medium tension.
Versatile: If you are a versatile player and capable of playing various strokes, you must go for a lightweight semi-rigid badminton racket with isometric head. The string tension should be high for more accurate shots.
Defender: If you prefer playing defensive games rather than attacking, opt for a relatively light flexible racket. String tension should be high.
Care of badminton racket
A badminton racket does not require much maintenance. The only thing you need to take care of is the string. You need to change string upon your playing frequency and style.
Badminton string can sustain for 6 to 9 month if you are a regular player. While an occasional player could continue playing with the same rope for more than one year. Avoid waiting for the string to break before changing it, because the playing sensations will be nonexistent during the last weeks of the agony of your strings.
As for the grip or over-grip, be sure to change it more frequently. Always according to your playing frequency, it will have to be changed every month for a regular player, and every 6 months for an occasional player. In all cases, and as highlighted above, allow your grip to dry well after each part, and, remember to brush it once dry.
Frequently Asked Question:
Q1- How is a badminton racket constructed?
Every badminton racket has the same structure and consists of a handle, shaft, neck, and head. The differences are then in the details: where the racket's center of gravity is, what material the frame and the strings are made of, or an additional grip tape. That everything influences the playing behavior and the stroke technique.
Q2 - How long has badminton been around?
The first setback games were played 2000 years ago in India with flattened woods as sticks. In the Baroque era, a badminton game developed where the goal was to pass the ball as often as possible.
Did you know that badminton evolved from the ancient game of shuttlecock? Adults and children played the game in ancient Greece, China, Japan, India, and Siam for at least 2000 years.
In 1872 the game was brought from India by the British colonial officer and presented. The first badminton club was then founded in England in 1893.
However, this association dissolved again after a short time. In the early 1950, badminton experienced a surge in popularity and spread.
Q3 - What is the air resistance of the badminton racket?
The force of air resistance slows down the speed of the badminton racket on the way to the ball. The badminton strings offer the most significant attack surface due to their cylindrical shape and high number.
They contribute approx.—80% of the air resistance. With thinner strings, you can improve the air resistance by 20%, making the difference between victory and defeat, especially in competition.
Q4 - What are the different striking techniques?
There are several basic strokes that a badminton player should master. These basic striking techniques can, of course, be varied, creating an even greater variety.
Each of these strokes can be played in a straight line (longline) and diagonally (cross), which results in typical moves that each player adapts to himself and his game and tries to incorporate into the game.
The prominent striking techniques are listed below:
- Clear: Serves as a liberation blow which is hit long and high to the baseline.
- Drive: A fast and flat ball that is hit just over the net.
- Smash: A hard hit, straight, downward smash, the classic attack hit.
- Drop: Also known as a stop ball. With this stroke, the ball is played just behind the net.
- Stop (drop on the net): The ball should be hit as close as possible over the edge of the net. This stroke is also known as a net game.
Wrap up:
A bad badminton racket could be you worse nightmare's on the court if you fait to choose the right one. Hope our guide of best badminton racket for intermediate player would be helpful to you. If you have any recommendation feel free to write down in the comment section below.