Best Badminton Racquets Under $100 in Australia (2026 Guide)

Spending under $100 on a badminton racquet in Australia doesn't mean compromising on quality — if you know where to look. This guide focuses on value for money at the sub-$100 price point, comparing frame materials, balance points, and what each racquet actually delivers at that price. This is not a beginner-only list; some of these racquets suit improving and intermediate players looking for their best option at this budget.

What $100 Actually Gets You

At under $100 you can get authentic Yonex racquets across aluminium and entry-level graphite composite constructions. The honest breakdown:

• Under $70: Aluminium frames — heavier, more flexible, very durable. Forgiving on mishits. Good for regular recreational play.
• $70–$100: Entry-level graphite composite — lighter, more responsive. Noticeable improvement in feel and power over aluminium. Worth paying the extra if you play more than once a week.

Best Value for Two Players: Yonex GR 303i Set of 2

At this price point, the Yonex GR 303i Set of 2 is unbeatable on pure value. Two full-size authentic Yonex aluminium racquets in one package, pre-strung and ready to play. Available in Black and Deep Red. If you need two racquets, nothing comes close at this price.

Spec	Detail
Frame	Aluminium
Balance	Even
Best for	Two players, recreational, family play

Best Single Racquet Under $70: Yonex Nanoray Light 18i

The Yonex Nanoray Light 18i is an ultra-lightweight single racquet that punches above its price. The flexible shaft and even balance make it genuinely easy to use, and the isometric head shape gives a larger sweet spot than most aluminium competitors. Ideal if you want one racquet and don't need to worry about overspending.

Best for the Attacking Beginner: Yonex Astrox Attack 9

If you're a beginner with an aggressive playing style, the Yonex Astrox Attack 9 is worth considering. Head-heavy graphite construction delivers real smash power from the outset, making it ideal for players who want to develop an attacking game. Available in Grey, Black, and White.

Best Graphite Upgrade Under $100: Yonex Astrox Lite 27i

If your budget reaches the upper end of this range, the Yonex Astrox Lite 27i is in a different class to the aluminium options above. Graphite composite construction makes it significantly lighter and more responsive. The head-heavy balance starts loading your smashes with real power. If you play weekly and want to actually improve, this is where to spend your budget.

Racquet	Price range	Frame	Best for
GR 303i Set of 2	Under $70	Aluminium	Two players, recreational
Nanoray Light 18i	Under $70	Lightweight composite	Solo player, value pick
Astrox Attack 9	Under $70	Graphite composite	Beginner, attacking style
Astrox Lite 27i	$70–$100	Graphite composite	Weekly player, wants improvement

What About the Step Up to $100–$150?

If you can stretch slightly beyond $100, two racquets are worth knowing about. The Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play at $89.99 offers even-balance all-round control — a step up for intermediate players who want precision over power. The Yonex Nanoflare 800 Play at $99.99 is the top of the speed-focused Nanoflare range — for intermediate players who win through fast flat drives and quick net play.

Should You Buy an Authentic Yonex or a Cheaper Alternative?

Personal opinion: authentic Yonex at any price point beats a no-name racquet at any budget. The engineering behind even entry-level Yonex products — isometric head shape, balanced shaft construction, consistent string tension — is genuinely different to what comes out of unbranded factories. This is a personal view and not professional sporting goods advice.

Browse the full range at Skippy Sports — All Racquets. Free shipping on orders over $100 Australia-wide. 30-day returns.