If you’re at that stage where you’ve moved beyond basic badminton but aren’t quite ready for pro tournaments yet, welcome to the club. Choosing the best badminton rackets for intermediate players at this point is surprisingly tricky. You need something that helps you level up — but doesn’t punish you for every small mistake. And let’s be honest, some rackets are just plain uncomfortable to play with, even if the specs look good.
We’ve got you covered. At SportsGalaxy, we’ve been helping players find their perfect match for years. So here’s a detailed guide — based entirely on real experiences — to help you pick the best Yonex badminton racket for intermediate players.
Why Yonex?
Ask any regular player in India, and Yonex is likely their first racket brand. And that’s no coincidence. Their rackets are known for being durable, well-designed, and consistent across models. Whether you’re smashing from the baseline or sneaking in a drop shot, Yonex makes something for every playing style.
For intermediate players in particular, Yonex has models that offer the sweet spot — enough control for rallies, but still forgiving enough for when you’re slightly off.
List of Best badminton rackets for intermediate players
1. Yonex Astrox 88D Pro – Powerhouse with Control
If you love playing from the back of the court and enjoy strong, attacking play, the 88D Pro won’t disappoint. It has that weighty feel towards the head that helps when you want to go all in on a smash.
A lot of intermediate singles players swear by it. You don’t need to swing like a national champ — the racket itself adds power to your shots.
Why Player like it:
- Strong smashes with less effort
- Excellent for back-court rallies
- Feels sturdy but not overly heavy
Not the cheapest racket, but if you’re serious about improving, it’s money well spent.
2. Yonex Nanoflare 700 Play – Quick and Comfortable
- Original price was: ₹5,490.00.₹3,849.00Current price is: ₹3,849.00.
Here’s one for the players who rely more on speed and reaction time than pure brute force. The Nanoflare 700 Play is light, fast, and very easy on the wrist.
Whether you play doubles or just enjoy faster rallies, this one feels like an extension of your arm.
Why it’s popular:
- Fast swings with minimal effort
- Balanced design, suitable for all-court play
- Doesn’t leave your arm sore after long games
It might not deliver thunderous smashes, but for rally control and quick placement, it does a great job.
3. Yonex Arcsaber 7 Pro – Built for Shot Placement
- Original price was: ₹21,790.00.₹11,700.00Current price is: ₹11,700.00.
The Arcsaber 7 Pro is the choice for players who think one shot ahead. It’s not the most aggressive racket, but when it comes to controlling the shuttle and placing it exactly where you want — this thing shines.
If you’re the kind of player who enjoys outsmarting rather than overpowering, give this a try.
Why it’s popular:
- Amazing control for drop shots and net play
- Slightly stiff frame gives better direction
- Suits both singles and doubles play
4. Yonex Muscle Power 22 – Great Value, Good Feel
- Original price was: ₹4,190.00.₹2,799.00Current price is: ₹2,799.00.
We know not everyone wants to spend ₹8000–₹10000 on a racket. The Muscle Power 22 is a more budget-friendly option, and surprisingly good for the price.
It’s ideal for intermediate players still figuring out their ideal playing style — whether you’re testing the waters with smashes or working on your net game.
Best things about it:
- Lightweight and easy to control
- Decent tension support
- Tough enough for regular club play
If you’re upgrading from a beginner-level racket and don’t want to spend too much, this one’s a smart choice.
5. Yonex Astrox 99 Play – For Big-Hitters
40% Off + 5% on first orderSelect options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product pageOriginal price was: ₹5,590.00.₹3,360.00Current price is: ₹3,360.00.
This one’s for players who live for that satisfying “thwack” of a well-timed smash. The 99 Play gives you that extra weight toward the head, which translates to raw power.
Still, it’s built to be manageable for intermediate players. You don’t need advanced-level wrist speed to handle it.
Best things about it:
- Boosts smash power instantly
- Eye-catching design (White Tiger and Cherry Sunburst are both stunners)
- Great for aggressive singles players
If you play with confidence and like attacking, this one deserves a spot in your kit.
| Racket | Best For | Feel | Power | Speed | Control |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yonex Astrox 88D Pro | Back-court attacking play | Solid & stiff | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Yonex Nanoflare 700 Play | Quick rallies & net play | Light & smooth | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Yonex Arcsaber 7 Pro | Shot placement & control | Balanced & crisp | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Yonex Muscle Power 22 | Budget-friendly upgrade | Soft | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Yonex Astrox 99 Play | Power smashes with style | Slightly stiff | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
conclusion
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to badminton rackets. The best Yonex badminton rackets for intermediate players is the one that feels right for you — not the most expensive or the most popular.
Think about how you play. Are you smashing more? Going for quick drop shots? Playing doubles or singles? Once you’re clear about your style, your ideal racket becomes easier to spot.
At SportsGalaxy, we test every model before we recommend it. If you’re still unsure, drop us a message. We’re happy to suggest something based on your style and budget — no generic answers, just honest advice.
Now, go win that next match.
Faqs
It depends on your play style, but the Astrox 88D Pro and Nanoflare 700 Play are top choices in our list of the 5 Best Yonex Badminton Rackets for Intermediate Players.
Absolutely. Every racket in our 5 Best Yonex Badminton Rackets for Intermediate Players list is designed for performance and regular match use.
Absolutely. Every racket in our 5 Best Yonex Badminton Rackets for Intermediate Players list is designed for performance and regular match use.
Unlike beginner gear, badminton rackets for intermediate players offer more control, slightly stiffer frames, and better support for advanced shots.
Unlike beginner gear, badminton rackets for intermediate players offer more control, slightly stiffer frames, and better support for advanced shots.
Not exactly. The badminton rackets for intermediate players we’ve listed are designed to support improving players — they help build your game without punishing every small mistake.
