Choosing the best badminton racket for beginners can be a bit confusing, especially if you’re new to the sport or buying your first racket. With so many options available online, it’s important to find a racket that offers the right balance of weight, grip, and durability — without being too advanced or too expensive.
In this article, we’ve reviewed some of the most beginner-friendly badminton rackets in India, all ideal for casual players, school learners, and early-stage intermediates. Whether you’re looking for a racket for beginners in badminton, or a good badminton racket for beginners that helps improve your skills, this list covers the best choices under Rs 2000.
Quick Picks – Top Badminton Rackets for Beginners
Yonex GR 303 – Rs 1499
Best overall for beginner playersLi-Ning XP 709 – Rs 1299
Great for beginners with lightweight designApacs Z-Ziggler Light – Rs 1999
Good for beginner to intermediate playersCosco CBX-450 – Rs 1099
Best budget racket for beginnersYonex ZR 100 Light – Rs 1399
Recommended starter racket with good durability
How We Picked These Badminton Rackets
To help you choose confidently, we reviewed 30+ beginner rackets available on Amazon, Flipkart, Decathlon, and brand websites. Our selection was based on:
Weight: Lightweight rackets (85–95g) are easier for beginners to handle
Grip Comfort: Thicker grip and smooth handling for better control
Durability: Strong aluminum or alloy frame preferred for rough use
User Reviews: Focused on rackets with good beginner feedback and 4+ ratings
Price: Best value rackets under Rs 2000 for entry-level players
These rackets are ideal for school students, casual weekend players, and early intermediate players.
Quick Look: Pros & Cons Table
| Racket | Best For | Weight | Frame | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yonex GR 303 | Overall beginner performance | 95g | Aluminum | Rs 1499 |
| Li-Ning XP 709 | Lightweight learning | 90g | Aluminium | Rs 1299 |
| Apacs Z-Ziggler Lite | Beginner to intermediate transition | 85g | Graphite | Rs 1999 |
| Cosco CBX-450 | Budget buyers | 98g | Alloy | Rs 1099 |
| Yonex ZR 100 Light | Durability + practice use | 93g | Aluminum | Rs 1399 |
Reviews – Best Badminton Racket for Beginners
Yonex GR 303 – Rs 1499
Best overall for beginner players
The Yonex GR 303 is one of the most popular choices among new players. Its sturdy aluminum frame, comfortable grip, and decent weight make it a recommended badminton racket for beginners. It’s great for learning basic strokes and can handle rough play.
User reviews often mention its balance and how easy it is to use right out of the box. While not meant for pro-level games, it’s excellent for casual matches and school-level practice.
Specs:
Frame: Aluminum
Weight: 95g
Grip Size: G4
String tension: ~18–20 lbs
✅ Pros:
Durable and beginner-friendly
Good balance and control
Affordable price
❌ Cons:
Slightly heavy for some
Not ideal for smash play
Li-Ning XP 709 – Rs 1299
Great for beginners with lightweight design
The Li-Ning XP 709 is a perfect choice for younger or female players who prefer lighter rackets. It’s easy to swing, has a smooth grip, and supports developing wrist strength.
Many consider this the best budget badminton racket for beginners, especially if you’re just starting out and want something that won’t strain your arm during long rallies.
Specs:
Frame: Aluminum
Weight: 90g
Balance: Even
Flex: Medium
✅ Pros:
Lightweight and easy to handle
Smooth grip feel
Ideal for learners
❌ Cons:
Less power in smashes
Basic packaging
Apacs Z-Ziggler Light – Rs 1999
Good racket for beginner to intermediate players
The Z-Ziggler Light bridges the gap between beginner and intermediate play. It’s a great transition racket if you’re improving fast. The graphite frame makes it lighter yet more powerful than basic aluminum rackets.
It’s often rated as one of the best badminton rackets for beginner to intermediate players looking to develop power and precision over time.
Specs:
Frame: Graphite
Weight: 85g
Flex: Medium
Balance: Slightly head-heavy
✅ Pros:
Good for learning smash/control
Lightweight graphite frame
Long-lasting build
❌ Cons:
May be overkill for absolute beginners
Slight vibration
Cosco CBX-450 – Rs 1099
Best budget racket for beginners
If you’re just starting out and don’t want to spend too much, the Cosco CBX-450 is a solid choice. Though not as refined as Yonex or Li-Ning models, it handles well and lasts through casual play.
This cheap badminton racket is ideal for students or hobby players who need a reliable option without spending more than Rs 1100.
Specs:
Frame: Alloy
Weight: 98g
Grip: Basic
Flex: Medium
✅ Pros:
Very affordable
Decent for occasional games
Available in most sports shops
❌ Cons:
Basic string and frame quality
Heavier than ideal
Yonex ZR 100 Light – Rs 1399
Recommended racket for consistent beginners
The ZR 100 Light offers a nice mix of lightweight feel and Yonex durability. It’s slightly better balanced than the GR 303 and works well for players who’ve crossed the absolute beginner stage.
Many call it a good badminton racket for beginners who want something they can use for practice and weekly games.
Specs:
Frame: Aluminum
Weight: 93g
Grip: G4
Balance: Even
✅ Pros:
Lighter than GR 303
Easy to maneuver
Reliable build quality
❌ Cons:
Not meant for advanced spin or control
Limited power
Buying Guide – How to Choose a Beginner’s Badminton Racket
Here’s what matters most when choosing a racket for beginners in badminton:
Weight: 85–95g is ideal; lighter rackets reduce arm fatigue
Frame: Aluminum or graphite; avoid cheap plastic builds
Grip: G4 or G5 grip sizes offer better comfort
Balance: Even or slightly head-heavy works best
Budget: Beginners don’t need costly rackets — under Rs 2000 is ideal
FAQs – Best Badminton Racket for Beginners
Q. Which is the best badminton racket for beginners in India?
The Yonex GR 303 and Li-Ning XP 709 are top beginner picks under Rs 1500.
Q. What is a good budget racket for beginners?
Try the Cosco CBX-450 if your budget is under Rs 1100. For slightly better quality, Yonex ZR 100 is a great choice.
Q. Can beginners use graphite rackets?
Yes, if the racket is lightweight and balanced. The Apacs Z-Ziggler Light is a great example for beginner to intermediate use.
Q. Should I choose head-heavy or even balance for learning?
Go with even balance if you’re new. Head-heavy rackets are better after you learn control and timing.
Q. Are these rackets good for kids or juniors?
Yes, especially Yonex GR 303 and Li-Ning XP 709. They’re light and easy to handle for school-age kids.
Final Verdict – Editor’s Pick
If you’re just getting started, go with the Yonex GR 303 for all-round value and reliability. If you prefer something lighter and easier on the arm, the Li-Ning XP 709 is a top contender. For learners looking to level up soon, the Apacs Z-Ziggler Light is worth the slightly higher spend.