Want to start playing but on a budget? There are great choices from well-known brands like Yonex, Li-Ning, and Victor for beginners, intermediate players, and even advanced players who want a cheap backup for a $100. This guide will help you pick the best value rackets for your skill level, playing style, and personal tastes without giving up performance or durability. There is a link to buy each of the rackets listed below, so you can start (or improve) your badminton journey with confidence!
Why should you buy a budget Badminton Racket?
Choosing a budget-friendly badminton racket is perfect for those who are:
- Starting out and not ready to invest in premium equipment.
- Play Occasionally but want solid value.
- Experimenting with Styles before settling on a preferred racket profile.
The right budget racket can still deliver excellent playability, control, and power, especially with brands that have proven track records.
What to Look For in a Budget Racket?
When shopping for the best badminton racket under $100, consider these factors:
- Skill Level: Some rackets make it easier to learn the basics, while others offer versatility for advanced techniques.
- Playing Style: Do you play aggressively, smashing the shuttle, or rely on quick defensive shots?
- Balance: Head-heavy for smashing, head-light for control and speed, or even-balance for all-around play.
- Weight and Flexibility: Lighter rackets are easier to maneuver, while stiffer shafts provide extra precision for those with advanced technique.
Note for Yonex Fans
Some models like the Nanoflare, Astrox are high end options but they come with budget friendly versions. Watch for their suffix to identify what’s best for you.
- Z Models – Top of the line and made in Japan. For pro players
- Tour Series – High quality, Made in Taiwan version.
- Play Series – Budget friendly, Made in Taiwan which the most basic versions of the core technology that makes up the model series. (NAMD graphite)
- Game Series – Most accessible budget version for new players. Made in China.
Our Top 6 Picks: Best Budget Rackets from Yonex, Li-Ning, and Victor
Below, we highlight six of the top rackets under $100, chosen for their performance, reputation, and accessibility for all levels. Each entry includes approximate current price, key specs, and a link to buy.
1. Yonex Astrox 99 Play
- Approximate Price: $75–$90
- Playing Style: Offensive/Smash-oriented
- Balance: Head-heavy
- Best for: Intermediate to advanced, attacking players
- Buy the Yonex Astrox 99 Play
2. Yonex Arcsaber 11 Play
- Approximate Price: $75–$90
- Playing Style: All-round, control and precision
- Balance: Even
- Best for: Beginner to intermediate, versatile players
- Buy the Yonex Arcsaber 11 Play
3. Yonex Nanoflare 001 Clear
- Approximate Price: $55
- Playing Style: Fast, defensive, quick drives
- Balance: Head-light
- Best for: Beginner to intermediate, defensive or counter-attacking players
- Buy the Yonex Nanoflare 001 Clear
4. Li-Ning 3D Calibar 900
- Approximate Price: $95–$100
- Playing Style: Power/smash
- Balance: Head-heavy
- Best for: Intermediate and above, attacking singles players
- Buy the Li-Ning 3D Calibar 900
5. Victor Thruster FC
- Approximate Price: $90–$100
- Playing Style: Power and speed, aggressive play
- Balance: Slightly head-heavy
- Best for: Intermediate to advanced, offensive-style players
- Buy the Victor Thruster FC
6. Victor Arrow Speed 11
- Approximate Price: $65–$85
- Playing Style: Speed, fast rallies, doubles play
- Balance: Even balance
- Best for: Beginner to intermediate, speed-focused, doubles-friendly
- Buy the Victor Arrow Speed 11
Table: Best Budget Badminton Rackets Under $100
| Racket | Manufacturer | Approx. Price | Playing Style | Balance | Skill Level | Buy Link |
| Astrox 99 Play | Yonex | $75–$90 | Offensive/Power | Head-heavy | Intermediate/Advanced | Buy |
| Arcsaber 11 Play | Yonex | $75–$90 | All-Around/Control | Even | Beginner/Intermediate | Buy |
| Nanoflare 001 Clear | Yonex | $55 | Quick/Defensive | Head-light | Beginner/Intermediate | Buy |
| 3D Calibar 900 | Li-Ning | $95–$100 | Power/Smash | Head-heavy | Intermediate/Advanced | Buy |
| Thruster FC | Victor | $90–$100 | Aggressive/Speed | Head-heavy | Intermediate/Advanced | Buy |
| Arrow Speed 11 | Victor | $65–$85 | Speed/Doubles | Even | Beginner/Intermediate | Buy |
Individual Racket Highlights
Yonex Astrox 99 Play
Designed for players who favor attacking play, the Astrox 99 Play delivers a powerful smash and solid control. Its head-heavy balance aids in delivering heavy hits, making it suitable for intermediates advancing to competitive play.
Yonex Arcsaber 11 Play
A classic for all-rounders, the Arcsaber 11 Play offers a balanced feel and excellent control. Its forgiving response is great for anyone perfecting their skills or switching between offense and defense.
Yonex Nanoflare 001 Clear
This option is ideal for defensive, quick rallies. The head-light balance provides fast maneuverability—perfect for doubles and for those who value speed over raw power.
Li-Ning 3D Calibar 900
Engineered for smash enthusiasts, the Calibar 900 shines with its head-heavy configuration. It’s robust and efficient for delivering powerful shots in singles play.
Victor Thruster FC
A fast, powerful racket that suits aggressive, advanced-level players. Its dynamic frame supports high-speed play and sharp attacks in both singles and doubles.
Victor Arrow Speed 11
Lightweight with an even balance, this racket excels in fast rallies and doubles games. It’s comfortable for lengthy sessions and provides great all-round improvement for beginners.
How to Pick Your First (or Next) Racket
- Beginners: Go for even-balanced or slightly head-light rackets for easier control and less fatigue.
- Intermediates: Experiment with stiffer shafts and varying balances based on your evolving style.
- Advanced: Take the leap to specialized rackets that suit your tactics, and consider restringing for custom tension.
Nearly all the models above come pre-strung, but you might want to customize your strings and tension as you progress for even better performance..
Ready to Elevate Your Game?
No matter your skill level, badminton is for everyone—and a great racket need not be expensive. These top picks offer the best value under $100, with performance to match ambitious goals on the court. Don’t miss the chance to order yours today and start enjoying badminton to the fullest!
