Badminton, a sport that resonates deeply in the heart of every Indian, demands precision, agility, and a reliable racquet. Yonex, a household name in the world of badminton, has been serving players with top-notch equipment for decades.
In addition to high-end badminton rackets, Yonex offers affordable rackets so everyone can enjoy the game of badminton. Let’s delve into the world of budget-friendly Yonex badminton racquets to enjoy exceptional quality without straining your wallet.
Why choose Yonex for your Budget-Friendly Racket Needs?
In a country where badminton is celebrated with much fervor; finding an affordable yet high-performing racquet can be a game-changer. Yonex quickly understood the diverse needs of Indian players and crafted a range of budget-friendly racquets that cater to all types of players without compromising on quality.
They have been manufacturing steel and aluminum racquets in Bengaluru since April 2017. The company has recently started a second Yonex factory in India in June 2023 to manufacture full-carbon graphite racquets at scale. According to the company, the racquets will be dedicated to performance-seeking badminton fans across India.
By delivering "Made in India" rackets, the company expects to cut logistical expenditures and provide affordable badminton rackets to customers. Their move is in the hopes of supporting their passion and contributing to the growth of badminton in India.
Let's Find Your Perfect Swing under ₹2000:
If you want an affordable badminton racket, fret not. Explore the list of 2023’s most budget-friendly racquets under ₹2000 and buy your next one.
1. Yonex ZR 100 Light Badminton Racket - ₹550
One of the best-selling beginner rackets in India, the Yonex ZR 100 Light badminton racket has been selling like hotcakes since its launch in 2020. This isometric racket has a head-light balance to ensure easy racket handling for beginners. It has a lightweight shaft that does not feel heavy for an inexperienced player. If you prefer a lightweight racket with an all-around performance, the ZR 100 Light can be your trusted choice.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Flex: Medium
Head Shape: Isometric Shape
Weight/Grip Size: 3U(85g)/G4
Made In: India
Nydhi Expert Review:
The ZR 100 Light is touted as the best-selling badminton racket for beginners, and it is for good reason. It is reasonably priced at just ₹550. It has a decent aluminum body with a low-torsion steel shaft for more durability. It comes with a good deal of string tension. You can string the racket up to 26 lbs, making it an ideal choice for when you upgrade your skills to become an intermediate player.
2. Yonex ZR 101 Light Badminton Racket - ₹550
If you want a slightly heavier option than the ZR 100, the Yonex ZR 101 Light badminton racket is for you. At 95 grams, it can prove to be a powerful weapon in the hands of a physically strong player. Whether you are an occasional player or a beginner-to-intermediate player, this aluminum racket will ensure accurate shot placement at economical prices.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Flex: Medium
Head Shape: Isometric Shape
Weight/Grip Size: U(95g-99.9g)/G4
Made In: India
Nydhi Expert Review:
With an aluminium body, this racket is developed in Japan and made in India to deliver the highest performance standards at the lowest possible prices. If you want a sturdy racquet with an enhanced sweet spot and solid hitting capabilities, buy the Yonex ZR 101 racket. We recommend choosing a custom grip because the default Yonex grip may seem too thin for your comfort.
3. Yonex ZR 111 Light Badminton Racket - ₹550
Yonex ZR 111 badminton racket is another popular racket from the affordable ZR series. Made with aluminium, it is a sturdy choice for players who want to invest in a durable racket that can last several years. It is developed in Japan and made in the Bengaluru factory in India. If you need an isometric racket head for enhanced sweet spot and effortless playability, this beginner racket can be your next purchase.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Flex: Medium
Head Shape: Isometric Shape
Weight/Grip Size: U(95g-99.9g)/G4
Made In: India
Nydhi Expert Review:
It is a prudent choice for beginners and intermediate players who want to invest in quality rackets. Even though it weighs around 95 grams, it does not feel heavy while playing. It has a T-joint that is quite common in this price range. So, do not disregard the racket for its T-joint. Although the racket costs around ₹550, it feels like a ₹1000 racket. It is a good investment because you can string it up to 26 lbs and use it even when you upgrade your skills. Also, the full cover that comes with Yonex ZR 111 Light is better than other rackets in the same category.
4. Yonex GR303i Badminton Racket - ₹700
The Yonex GR303i badminton racket is an isometric version of the best-rated Yonex GR303 racquet. The older racket was made in China. However, the GR303i is made locally at the Bengaluru factory. Endorsed by Saina Nehwal, the latest racquet is light in weight and does not tire your arms even while being slightly head-heavy.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Beginner
Balance: Head Heavy
Flex: Medium
Head Shape: Isometric Shape
Weight/Grip Size: 3U(85g)/G4
Made In: India
Nydhi Expert Review:
The GR303i badminton racket is one of the best-selling Yonex rackets in the beginner category. It is priced conveniently to ensure new learners and occasional players buy it without hesitation. In addition to the price, its low weight is the main reason for most players choosing it. We recommend it if you are looking for a head-heavy racket that is lightweight and easy to play with.
5. Yonex Z Force II Badminton Racket - ₹780
Yonex Z Force II badminton racket is an affordable racket with a more aerodynamic frame. It is ideal for beginners who want an easy racket with more durable features. Made with an aluminium frame and alloy steel shaft, you can expect decent power and easy maneuverability from the Z Force-II racket.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Beginners
Balance: Head Light
Flex: Extra Medium
Head Shape: Isometric
Weight/Grip Size: U(95g-99.9g)/G4
Made In: India
Nydhi Expert Review:
If you are looking for a budget-friendly choice, we recommend the Z Force-II because it offers good value for money. It has a T-joint, but that does not affect its durability in any way. You can expect decent power and effortless shot placement from the racket.
6. Yonex Nanoray 6000i Badminton Racket - ₹1490
The "i" in Yonex Nanoray 6000i badminton racket stands for isometric technology for enhanced sweet spot. As you know, it is part of the Nanoray series, the 6000i racquet is also incredibly fast. It has an aluminium frame for easy maneuverability and an aerodynamic steel shaft with Nanoscience technology for stiff flex and superior repulsion.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Intermediate Players
Balance: Head Light
Flex: Extra Stiff
Head Shape: Isometric
Weight/Grip Size: 4U(80g-84.9g)/G4
Made In: China
Nydhi Expert Review:
For the price range, this is a very decent defensive badminton racket with a t-joint for added protection. If you want a fast badminton racket within a limited budget, you will benefit from choosing the Yonex Nanoray 6000i racket. Because of its Nanoscience technology and headlight balance, we have noticed that the racquet is exceptionally fast and delivers enough power to play a menacing game. If you are a recreational player, you can opt for the demo/default strings. However, a beginner or an intermediate player must string it according to their preference for better performance.
7. Yonex Nanoray 7000i Badminton Racket: ₹1495
Players get confused between 6000i and 7000i badminton racquets because of their similar specifications. However, the one major upgrade in the Nanoray 7000i badminton racket is that it has a graphite shaft for reducing the racket weight and making it more responsive than the 6000i. Additionally, it also has aerodynamic Nanoscience technology for unparalleled repulsive power.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Intermediate Players
Balance: Head Light
Flex: Medium
Head Shape: Isometric
Weight/Grip Size: 2U(90g approx)/G4
Made In: China
Nydhi Expert Review:
We recommend choosing the Yonex Nanoray 7000i because it has more advanced features in terms of a graphite shaft for more flex. It also has a built-in T-joint, which is a big plus for this price range and adds to the durability. You can string it up to 24 lbs, depending on the racket weight, and it is sufficient for beginners and intermediate players.
8. Yonex Astrox Lite 27i Badminton Racket - ₹1799
If you are a fan of the Yonex Astrox series but want a budget-friendly racket that does not compromise power for speed, the Yonex Astrox Lite 27i badminton racket can be your preferred racket. It has an isometric shape with a full-graphite body and Nanomesh NEO technology for more durability and flexibility. This jointless racket is made from a single piece to avoid the twisting and bending of the frame. With a recommended string tension of up to 30 lbs, this lightweight racket can pack as much power as you want.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Beginner/Intermediate Players
Balance: Head heavy
Flex: Hi-Flex
Head Shape: Isometric
Weight/Grip Size: 5U(75g-79g)/G4
Made In: China
Nydhi Expert Review:
Yonex Astrox Lite 27i is one of the best Astrox rackets under ₹2000! The main reason behind it is the single-frame body. Because it does not have a joint, it makes the racket even more durable and, thus, proves to be a solid investment for beginners and intermediate players. The handle is 10mm longer than traditional rackets, making it ideal for physically strong players with larger hands. Although it is head-heavy, you can make it even-balance by adding a custom grip and personalizing the racket to suit your requirements.
9. Yonex Astrox Lite 21i Badminton Racket - ₹1799
By its name, one can know that the Yonex Astrox Lite 21i badminton racket is an isometric racket. It is a beginner-friendly racket with impressive swing speed and a more responsive racket frame. Now, do not discount the racket because it caters to learners. Because you can string it up to 30 lbs, you can play with it even if you become an intermediate player. At 78 grams, it is one of the lightest rackets that you will find in this price range. It is a worthy option for beginners who do not wield the racket for several hours.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Beginner/Intermediate Players
Balance: Head Heavy
Flex: Hi-Flex
Head Shape: Isometric
Weight/Grip Size: 5U(78g)/G4
Made In: China
Nydhi Expert Review:
If you want a lightweight racket with solid swing speed and exceptional repulsive action, you can trust the Yonex Astrox Lite 21i badminton racket, especially for long rallies. This racket has a single-piece full-graphite body, which means it will be more durable than other racquets with a T-joint. It also has a 10mm longer handle to accommodate players with larger hands.
10. Yonex Nanoray 70 Light Badminton Racket - ₹1975
The Yonex Nanoray 70 Light badminton racket delivers remarkable speed and control. It is designed for intermediate players. Yonex has used Carbon Graphite in the racket frame and body to reduce its weight to 75 grams. Plus, it has included the Nanoscience technology into the shaft for better repulsion and extra stiffness. It allows you to control your shots more accurately.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Intermediate Players
Balance: Head Light
Flex: Extra Stiff
Head Shape: Isometric
Weight/Grip Size: 5U(75g approx.)/G4
Made In: Japan
Nydhi Expert Review:
It is the ultimate budget-friendly racket for intermediate players. As an experienced player, you may require more accurate and controlled shots, and the Nanoray 70 Light is designed to deliver the same. We do not recommend it to beginners because the racket will not create the required power and result in weaker smashes. Additionally, the extra stiff flex is a problem in defending the shots in the hands of new players.
11. Yonex Arcsaber 71 Light Badminton Racket - ₹1990
Rudy Hartono, the legend of the All-England Championship, made the Yonex Arcsaber 71 Light badminton racket popular. Although designed for intermediate players, its features and easy handling make it the top choice for beginners and recreational players. It is a light and powerful racket that can handle fast rallies with exceptional movements. If you are an all-around player who plays doubles games more often, the Arcsaber 71 Light can become your weapon of choice.
Specifications:
Playing Level: Intermediate Players
Balance: Head Light, almost leaning towards Even Balance
Flex: Medium
Head Shape: Isometric
Weight/Grip Size: 5U(77g approx)/G4
Made In: China
Nydhi Expert Review:
Badminton experts and coaches have called this racket "The-Everyone" racket because it caters to the needs of everyone. Developed in Japan, the Yonex Arcsaber 71 Light is technologically advanced and promises effortless playability at the same time. You can use the racket for fast rallies. The lightweight graphite body and the almost even balance make your movements lightning fast.
Your Quest for a Budget-Friendly Badminton Racket Ends Here
We have undertaken a detailed analysis and review of the top Yonex badminton rackets under ₹2000. It manifests Yonex's commitment to delivering excellent badminton racquets at pocket-friendly prices.
Yonex has excelled at providing Indian players with a wide array of badminton racquets. It has proved that passion for badminton should not be hindered by budget constraints. So, next time you need an affordable racquet, choose your weapon wisely. And step onto the badminton court with confidence, armed with a Yonex racquet that resonates with your style.