Best Badminton Rackets Under ₹5000 in 2026
Dec 29 , 2025
Badminton is more than just a sport in India — it's a passion, a lifestyle, and for many, a stepping stone to competitive glory. From energetic school tournaments to friendly matches at local clubs and nail-biting doubles battles in indoor arenas, badminton's popularity continues to grow. Yet one question that almost every player faces sooner or later is: "Do I really need to spend a lot on my racket?"
The answer in 2026 is a confident no, not necessarily. With advancements in manufacturing, better materials, improved technology, and fierce competition among brands, players can now access high-performance badminton rackets for less than ₹5000. These rackets offer power, precision, durability, and comfort that would have cost double just a few years ago.
Whether you're a beginner stepping onto the court for the first time, an intermediate player sharpening your skills, or a club competitor who plays frequently, this guide will help you find the best badminton racket under ₹5000 in 2026—backed by expert insight, performance breakdowns, and clear recommendations.
Why This Price Segment Matters in 2026
In the past, inexpensive rackets were generally heavy, uneven, and poorly balanced. A lot of players have to pick between investing a lot of money and giving up too much on performance.
But 2026 is a different story. Technology and the competitive landscape have both changed. Today's budget rackets have:
- Lightweight builds that reduce arm strain
- Aerodynamic frames for faster swing speeds
- Head-heavy balance options for power players
- Balanced rackets for all-around versatility
- Unstrung options that let players customise string tension
- Graphite composites and advanced materials, once reserved for premium rackets
This evolution means players no longer have to stretch their budget to get a racket that performs well.
How to Choose a Badminton Racket (Quick Primer)
Before you start playing with the rackets, it's good to know what to look for:
1. Weight
- 4U (≈83g): Most common in this price range. Great for faster handling and quick rallies.
- 3U (≈85–89g): Slightly heavier, adding more stability and power, often preferred by attacking players.
2. Balance
- Head-Heavy: More mass toward the head for powerful smashes.
- Even Balance: Balanced feel, suitable for players who want versatility.
- Head-Light: Faster racket speed; often preferred in doubles play.
3. Flex
- Flexible: Easier power generation for beginners.
- Medium: Balanced feel for general play.
- Stiff: More control and precision—best for advanced players.
4. Grip
The size of the grip impacts how comfortable and easy it is to control. Smaller grips let your wrist move more quickly when you play net, whereas bigger grips help you swing harder.
Top Badminton Rackets Under ₹5000 in 2026
In this section, we explore the best rackets across different segments: entry-level, power-focused, all-rounders, and custom options.
1. Yonex Voltric Lite 20i — Trusted Beginner All-Rounder
For many players, the journey into badminton begins with a racket that feels comfortable and reliable. The Yonex Voltric Lite 20i is one such racket, making it one of the most popular entry-level picks in India.
This racket offers a lightweight feel, balanced performance, and the trusted build quality Yonex is known for. It's excellent for:
- Beginners learning basic footwork and shots
- Recreational players who want a smooth experience
- Students and club players
The Voltric Lite 20i provides enough forgiveness for players still mastering timing and technique, while its design supports a gradual improvement curve. If you want a racket that feels right from the first rally, this is a great starting point.
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2. Transform Attack — Budget-Friendly Power Emphasis
The Transform Attack is a great choice for players who like crisper strikes and a little more aggressive play. Even though it doesn't have the brand history of some competitors, it performs better than its pricing.
This racket is perfect for:
- Beginners transitioning into a more attacking style
- Casual and weekly players
- Those seeking better smashes without a premium cost
The slight head-heavy balance supports deeper clears and stronger shots, helping players who want to feel the impact of each hit. It's not the most advanced racket on this list, but for its price, it offers exceptional value.
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3. Victor Thruster K-3 (TK-3) — Entry-Level Smash Power
The Victor Thruster K-3 is part of Victor's popular Thruster lineup, known for emphasising power without sacrificing control. Its head-heavy design adds momentum to smashes and clears, making it an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate players.
Why players love it:
- Good smash support for developing power shots
- Durable frame for regular practice
- Confidence-boosting feel for attacking play
The Thruster K-3 bridges the gap between basic rackets and more advanced options, helping players who want more punch in every rally.
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4. Maxbolt BLACK (Unstrung, 83g) — Customisation for Better Performance
Unstrung rackets are increasingly popular among players who want control over string tension and type. The Maxbolt BLACK comes without strings, allowing advanced beginners and intermediate players to tailor their racket setup.
Benefits include:
- Custom string tension based on skill level
- Choice of string type (power vs control)
- Lightweight 83g design for speed
Players who know what they want and want to have exact control over how their rackets function should buy unstrung rackets. They will need to pay extra to have them strung.
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5. Transform Star 2.0 — Comfortable and Easy to Use
If comfort and ease of play matter more than cutting-edge performance, the Transform Star 2.0 delivers reliably. This racket is excellent for:
- Recreational players
- Fitness badminton
- Beginners focusing on fun and comfort
This isn't meant for high-stakes competitive play, but it feels smooth and forgiving and has enough power for fun rallies.
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6. Maxbolt Thunder Bolt — Speed + Power Combo
The Maxbolt Thunder Bolt caters to players who enjoy fast rallies with quick shots and strong offensive play. Lightweight yet structured, it helps players:
- Generate faster reactions
- Drive quick returns
- Transition between defence and attack effectively
Especially in doubles, where rapid response matters, Thunder Bolt's design shines.
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7. Maxbolt Metal Badminton Racket — Durability for Rough Play
Built with a robust metal frame, the Maxbolt Metal racket is all about durability. It's an ideal choice for:
- Coaching centres and training use
- Beginners who mishit frequently
- Casual players who prioritise toughness
Although it may feel slightly heavier compared to graphite rackets, its resilience makes it a practical choice for long-lasting performance in non-competitive play.
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8. Maxbolt Woven Tech Series — Consistency and Control
The Maxbolt Woven Tech 60 and Woven Tech 90 rackets bring thoughtful design and stable performance into the budget segment. They are excellent all-purpose rackets that offer:
- Improved frame stability
- Balanced playability
- Smooth handling for rallies
The Woven Tech 60 leans toward a more forgiving feel. At the same time, the Woven Tech 90 provides slightly sharper control and stiffer response, making it suitable for players who want more precision without overspending.
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9. Yonex Astrox 77 Play — Attacking Power, Yonex Quality
The Yonex Astrox series is globally known for power-oriented rackets. The Astrox 77 Play brings that ethos into the budget range, offering:
- Slight head-heavy balance for strong smashes
- Larger sweet spot thanks to the Yonex isometric head design
- A responsive feel that supports aggressive play
Intermediate players and ambitious beginners often choose this racket as their first serious attacking option. It delivers performance that rivals rackets priced much higher, making it a standout choice in 2026.
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10. Maxbolt Navigator 2 — All-Round Versatility
The Maxbolt Navigator 2 is designed to handle all aspects of the game. It's neither too heavy nor too light, and it excels in both singles and doubles. It's ideal for players who:
- Enjoy adaptability in their playstyle
- Want a racket that supports varied gameplay
- Seek reliable performance in every rally
This bang-for-buck racket does not specialise in one particular area but balances control, power, and speed effectively.
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11. Apacs Z-Ziggler Reborn (Exclusive India) — Powerhouse Performance
The Apacs Z-Ziggler Reborn is one of the most talked-about rackets in the under ₹5000 category. Known for its explosive power and robust construction, it appeals to players who want:
- Strong smash generation
- Head-heavy balance for attacking play
- Good feedback and shuttle control
It's not the easiest racket for raw beginners, but for players with some experience looking to dominate rallies, it's an excellent choice.
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12. Victor Thruster Hammer — Stability Meets Power
The Victor Thruster Hammer combines the power of head-heavy design with a stable frame, giving players confidence in smash output and defence. It's a solid option for intermediate players who:
- Want dependable performance in matches
- Appreciate a balanced feel even during aggressive shots
- Play regularly and need durability
This racket often stands out for its consistency and comfort.
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13. Transform Aero Z (Unstrung) — Speed Focused
The Transform Aero Z series focuses on aerodynamic performance—making it ideal for players who want speed in every shot. The unstrung version also offers customisation potential.
This racket suits players who:
- Prefer fast swings
- Value quick net play
- Enjoy defensive agility and rapid response
Speed is its strength, making it effective in doubles and fast rallies.
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14. Apacs X-Tech Power — Budget Attack Utility
The Apacs X-Tech Power racket emphasises power in an affordable package. It supports strong, clear shots and deep smashes, helping players with an attacking mindset who are just breaking into intermediate levels.
It's a great option for players who want an attack-oriented performance without complex features.
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15. Apacs Finapi 232 Limited Edition — Style with Performance
The Apacs Finapi 232 Limited Edition combines aesthetic appeal with solid playability. This racket is a great choice if you:
- Want a visually striking racket
- Value smooth handling and adequate power
- Play regularly but prefer comfort over extreme performance
It's a practical and stylish option for intermediate players.
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16. Victor Auraspeed Sniper — Speed and Precision Combined
The Victor Auraspeed Sniper offers enhanced speed and crisp control, making it ideal for players who focus on:
- Quick drives
- Fast exchanges
- Sharp net play
It's balanced feel supports both singles and doubles, especially for players who rely on precision rather than raw power.
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17. Yonex Astrox 1 DG — Heavy-Duty Attacking Performer
The Yonex Astrox 1 DG brings the Astrox series' power philosophy into a budget frame. Designed for players who prefer:
- Aggressive play
- High string tension and heavy shots
- Strong and stable performance under pressure
This racket holds its own in competitive play at the budget level.
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18. Maxbolt Gallant Series — Premium Touch Under ₹5000
The Maxbolt Gallant Sakiko and Maxbolt Gallant Tour (Black) rackets bring a premium feel to an affordable segment. They are smooth to handle, well-balanced, and suitable for players who want reliability with a refined feel.
Both rackets perform well in rallies and support consistent gameplay across:
- Net play
- Drives
- Smashes and clears
For players seeking a near-premium experience without overspending, the Gallant series delivers.
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How to Choose the Right Racket for You
With so many excellent options under ₹5000, here's a simple guide to help you decide:
For Beginners
- Light and forgiving rackets
- Smooth control and comfort
- Examples: Yonex Voltric Lite 20i, Transform Star 2.0, Maxbolt Metal
For Intermediate Players
- Head-heavy or balanced rackets with better power
- Examples: Yonex Astrox 77 Play, Apacs Z-Ziggler Reborn, Victor Thruster Hammer
For Doubles or Fast Play
- Fast, aerodynamic rackets with quick swing speed
- Examples: Transform Aero Z, Victor Auraspeed Sniper, Maxbolt Thunder Bolt
For Custom Setups
- Unstrung rackets for personalised string tension
- Examples: Maxbolt BLACK (Unstrung), Transform Aero Z (Unstrung)
Conclusion
The best badminton rackets under ₹5000 in 2026 offer an unprecedented combination of performance, quality, and affordability. As you've seen in this guide by Hans Sports, players today no longer need to compromise on power, control, or comfort to save money. This price range offers world-class value for both beginners who are trying to find their rhythm and intermediate players who want to improve.
Pick a racket that fits your style of play, feels well in your hand, and feels right when you play. A good racket not only makes you play better, but it also makes every time on the court more fun.
Choose the racket that works best for you, go out on the court with confidence, and may 2026 be the year your badminton game hits new heights!