Badminton Pro Guide: News, Players, Gear, and Expert Reviews

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  • 2024 VICTOR Badminton Racket Buying Guide (Series Introduction + Popular Models Recommendation)

    VICTOR Badminton Racket Series Introduction

    Nano Series (SUPER NANO)

    This series of badminton rackets features a diamond-shaped frame and high-rigidity carbon and nano materials, enhancing strength, rebound performance, and lightweight properties. With a stylish appearance, it is designed for players who prefer elegance. The high-end configuration and mid-range price of the Nano series have made it popular in the badminton community, and models such as SUPER NANO7, SUPER NANO6, and the upgraded HX-7SP, HX-6SP remain beloved among enthusiasts.

    Challenger Series (CHALLENGER)

    The Challenger series focuses on attack-oriented rackets, suitable for players who favor aggressive play. Made from high-rigidity carbon fiber, these rackets are solid and powerful. The VICTOR Challenger 9500 offers high cost-performance and is a great choice for beginners. The Challenger 9300 is praised for its control and is ideal for players who seek a balance between attack and defense.

    Meteor X Series (METEOR X, MX)

    The Meteor X series brought a powerful all-around racket to international courts. Released in 2011, the MX-80 introduced an eight-sided blade structure that provided a more stable racket face, becoming popular among international players. This series is known for its all-around capabilities and stability, with an 80-hole design offering dense stringing that improves shot performance and protects the strings.

    HYPERNANO X Series (HX)

    The HYPERNANO X series uses a unique diamond wind-breaking frame and advanced material technology to achieve balanced, stable, and anti-torque characteristics. It excels in both precise attacking and effortless defensive play, offering comprehensive performance for aggressive and versatile gameplay.

    DriveX Series (DX)

    The DriveX series addresses the evolving needs of badminton technique, emphasizing control and speed in doubles and singles play. It offers a smooth and stable racket feel, ideal for players who require fine control and fluid movement. The DriveX series redefines control rackets with an emphasis on attack.

    Brave Sword Series (BRAVE SWORD)

    The Brave Sword series is considered the soul of VICTOR, with many top Korean players having used these rackets. This series emphasizes speed, making it suitable for doubles play and players who favor quick, agile movements. The rackets are elegant and lightweight, providing sharp and precise attacking capabilities.

    Thruster Series (THRUSTER)

    The Thruster series focuses on aggressive play with a box-type frame and strength-enhancing grooves at the 5 and 7 o’clock positions. Made from graphene and nano-resin materials, the rackets offer excellent power and control, making them ideal for powerful smashes.

    Artery Series (ARTERY)

    The Artery series features carbon fiber rackets with strong rigidity and excellent elasticity. These rackets are designed for easy handling and stable performance, with models like the VICTOR Artery 996 representing mid-range technical rackets.

    Columbia Series (COLUMBIA)

    The Columbia series offers enhanced comfort with strong core technology and refined middle shafts. It is designed for older players seeking a classic and nostalgic option with smooth handling and comfortable play.

    Legend Series (LEGEND)

    The Legend series commemorates Zhao Jianhua, one of the “Four Heavenly Kings” of badminton. It combines rigidity and stability with high-quality materials, providing a luxurious feel for technical players and showcasing the essence of badminton.

    Auraspeed Series (AURASPEED)

    The Auraspeed series focuses on innovation and speed. It includes models with various speed attributes such as X (control), K (attack), S (speed), and F (women), offering diverse performance options tailored to different needs and preferences.

    Jetspeed S Series (JETSPEED S)

    The Jetspeed S series is a classic speed-focused series, popular among international players like Wu Liying and Chen Weichang. Known for its robust frame and quick response, the Jetspeed S series excels in fast-paced play and efficient transitions between offense and defense.

    VICTOR rackets are generally categorized into three main types: Attack, Speed, and All-Around.

    All-Around (Comprehensive)Speed (Defensive)Attack (Offensive):
    Super Nano Series
    DriveX Series
    HYPERNANO X Series
    Meteor X Series (MX)    		BRAVE SWORD
    AURASPEED
    JETSPEED S    		CHALLENGER
    THRUSTER
    ARTERY
    COLUMBIA
    LEGEND

    VICTOR Badminton Racket Purchasing Tips

    1.Racket Handle

    VICTOR badminton rackets come in three handle sizes: G1, G2, and G3. G1 is the thinnest, equivalent to YONEX’s G5 handle size. Currently, some women’s rackets feature G1 handles.

    Typically, VICTOR uses the G2 size (3 1/2) wood handle, which is covered with a sweat-absorbent, non-slip, durable, and comfortable PU grip. For larger handle sizes, an additional 0.75mm grip can be added over the original. Some batches of rackets come with G3 handles, suitable for players with larger hands.

    2.Racket Weight (Unstrung)

    VICTOR rackets use the U system for weight measurement, similar to YONEX. The categories are 2U (over 90g), 3U (85-90g), and 4U (81-84.9g). The most common weight is 3U, suitable for the majority of adults. 2U is typically used by players with strong wrist power and high string tension, and is less common now, with models like the Artery 99 still available in 2U. 4U is generally used by defensive and control-oriented players. Many women’s rackets are primarily 4U.

    3.Shaft Flexibility (FLEX)

    VICTOR rackets usually indicate shaft stiffness. The closer the shaft is to Flexible, the softer it is, suitable for technique-focused players, control, and those with weaker strength. Conversely, a stiffer shaft is suited for aggressive players. The parameters are visible on the cone of VICTOR rackets.

    4.Racket Balance Point (Carbon Racket)

    VICTOR rackets generally have a lower balance point, with very few exceeding 300mm. Most rackets have a balance point between 285-295mm. According to physics, the balance point for an unstrung racket is usually between 28cm and 29cm. A rearward balance point (below 285mm) makes the racket head lighter, offering better maneuverability but less power for smashes. A forward balance point (above 29cm) makes the racket head heavier, providing more power but less flexibility. VICTOR adjusts the balance point according to each racket’s characteristics to create distinct attack features.

    5.Racket Frame Shape

    Most VICTOR rackets feature a large square head design, providing a larger sweet spot. For example, the VICTOR Brave Sword 15 uses a smaller square head design, concentrating the power more effectively.

    6.Racket Length

    VICTOR rackets are uniformly 675mm in length.

    VICTOR Badminton Racket Model Recommendations

    For entry-level players, the affordable Super Nano 9 is a good choice, while the Super Nano 8, 6, 5, and 3 series are more suitable for intermed

    Entry-Level Racket

    1.VICTOR Challenge CHA-9500

      A highly recommended entry-level model, well-regarded among badminton enthusiasts and considered a classic! This racket is known for being one of the best-selling low-end rackets from VICTOR and among the best-selling rackets in the entire badminton community. It is extremely easy to handle, with suitable weight and swing weight, making it perfect for beginners. Typically, entry-level players may not yet have a developed technique and average strength; this racket helps in transitioning from a beginner to an intermediate or advanced player. Available in 3U/4U specifications with color options of red and blue.

      2.VICTOR Thruster TK-HMR Hammer

      The Hammer is a good entry-level attacking racket. It has a soft shaft but a higher balance point, making it a solid choice for those focused on offense. Compared to the CHA-9500, this racket is newer and more attack-oriented, though slightly more challenging to handle. Beginners can still consider it. For players with less power, the lighter version, TK-HMR L (Little Hammer), is an option. However, because of the lighter weight, generating powerful smashes may require more effort.

      Intermediate Rackets

      1.VICTOR Brave Sword 12 (4U Full Carbon Training Racket)

      This is the iconic racket used by Lee Yong Dae. The Brave Sword 12 features a wind-breaking frame, delivering fast, accurate, and powerful shots. It excels in continuous defense, allowing for a wide variety of shots such as clears and flat drives. While smashing isn’t the racket’s strongest suit, it still performs well. Overall, it’s a versatile racket with an excellent reputation and high cost performance, making it ideal for doubles. It’s one of the best-selling VICTOR rackets.

      2.VICTOR HX-7SP

      An upgraded version of the Nano 7, the HX-7SP comes in champagne gold and amber gold, available in both 3U and 4U. Nicknamed the “AK47 of rackets,” it offers improved swing speed and stability after the upgrade, with the shaft slimmed down from 7mm to 6.8mm. It’s one of the best-selling mid-range rackets, and its performance has been well received in the market. Ideal for players with a drive-and-attack style, this racket is known for its excellent cost performance. It’s a classic choice, offering strong mid-court flat drives and fast, agile play at the front, making it suitable for beginners as well.

      High-End Rackets

      1.VICTOR Thruster Onigiri (TK-Onigiri)

      The Onigiri racket features a smaller head design, coupled with a long string groove and an ultra-thin 6.4mm shaft. Every aspect that could reduce air resistance has been optimized for speed, embodying the philosophy of “the fastest blade wins.” With its stiff shaft, this racket excels in both offense and control, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced players.

      2.VICTOR DriveX 9X (DX-9X)

      This is a high-end balanced racket from VICTOR’s DriveX series. It’s easy to use and highly praised for its unbeatable balance, even better than the Yonex ArcSaber 10 and 11 in terms of equilibrium. With an attractive design, great feel, and ease of handling, this racket is a popular choice among players.

    1. How to Choose a Badminton Racket and String Tension for Beginners!

      How to Choose a Badminton Racket and String Tension for Beginners!

      1. About String Tension

      Choosing the right string tension is best determined through trial and error. For beginners, the general recommendations are:

      • For women: 22-24 lbs
      • For men: 23-24 lbs

      Of course, string tension is subjective and can vary for each individual. It depends on your physical tolerance, skill level, and personal feel. Higher tension provides better control of the shuttlecock but less elasticity, while lower tension offers more elasticity and is less taxing but provides less control.

      Consider adjusting the tension in the following situations:

      1. Decrease Tension: If you find the racket face too stiff, and you feel you can’t generate enough power, especially when handling defensive shots, and you experience significant vibration, you may need to lower the tension. This will increase the racket’s elasticity and improve its forgiveness.
      2. Increase Tension: If you feel the shuttlecock is sticking to the strings, the speed of your shots is slower than the effort you’re putting in, and you find control lacking, you may want to raise the tension.

      2. About Racket Selection

      Material of the Racket:

      The best choice is a racket with both the shaft and frame made of carbon fiber, often referred to as a full carbon fiber racket. In 2024, avoid aluminum or aluminum-carbon alloy rackets. While they might seem inexpensive, they are often considered disposable; you might not even restring them because they can’t handle higher tensions. Nowadays, full carbon fiber rackets are very affordable and are the recommended choice.

      Racket Weight:

      For beginners, the material is less of a concern as long as it’s full carbon fiber. The weight of the racket is a more critical factor.U denotes the weight of the racket. Common classifications are 2U, 3U, 4U, 5U, 6U, etc.

      The larger the number in front of U, the lighter the racket.

      This weight value is easy to remember. For every U, the racket is lighter by 5 grams from 100 grams:

      • 2U means it is 10 grams lighter than 100 grams. So, the weight of 2U is 100-10 = 90 grams, with an actual range of 90~94 grams.
      • 3U = 100 – 3*5 = 85 grams, with an actual range of 85~89 grams.
      • 4U = 100 – 4*5 = 80 grams, with an actual range of 80~84 grams.

      If both 3U and 4U rackets can achieve the same swing speed, and 3U does not make you tired, then choose the 3U racket. If you find 3U too heavy and tiring, then opt for 4U or lighter rackets.

      Most players use 3U and 4U rackets. The main difference between them is the weight. There is no absolute answer to which is better; the most important thing is finding a weight that suits you. For beginners, if unsure, choose 4U as it is more versatile for newcomers.

      3.About Racket Brands:

        For entry-level rackets, you don’t need to be overly concerned with the brand. As long as it’s from a reputable manufacturer of badminton rackets, it will be suitable. Brands like Yonex, Victor, Li-Ning, Kawasaki, Kason, Xwind, Babolat, and others are all good choices. You can consider brand reputation, reviews, and cost-performance ratio as references.

        4.About Racket Appearance:

          The design of rackets has become increasingly beautiful and trendy, incorporating various cultural elements. Preferences for appearance are subjective. Whether a racket looks good or not is up to you; if you like it, that’s what matters.

          Of course, there are many other parameters not covered here, such as the racket’s balance point and shaft stiffness. However, the above simple and clear introduction should be sufficient to help you avoid common pitfalls. The key is how the racket feels in your hand, as the parameters are fixed but the playability is crucial. Next, I’ll recommend some high-value-for-money rackets suitable for beginners.

          ① Kawasaki Ice Cream

          The two color options, Sea Salt Blue and Taro Purple, are visually appealing and attractive to many female players.

          With a 5U weight and a box-shaped frame structure, the racket is lightweight and flexible, offering quick speed while also providing excellent torsional stability. This enhances the precision of control. The racket uses high-strength, high-modulus Mitsubishi carbon fiber, with good shaft elasticity and moderate hardness, making it easy to drive. Even beginners can easily achieve the desired shaft deformation. The ultra-light design also reduces wrist strain.

          As an entry-level racket, the Kawasaki Ice Cream meets the criteria of good power, low price, and high appearance. It is very suitable for double matches and continuous attacking play.

          ② Victor Hammer

          The Victor Hammer (TK-HMR) and the Mini Hammer (TK-HMRL) are also very popular entry-level offensive rackets.

          The Hammer comes in 4U and 5U specifications, with the 4U model capable of handling up to 32 lbs and the 5U model up to 31 lbs.

          The Mini Hammer comes in 5U and 6U specifications, with the 5U model capable of handling up to 28 lbs and the 6U model up to 27 lbs.

          Both the Hammer and Mini Hammer use a shaft material consisting of carbon fiber + resin + 7.0 SHAFT. The shaft of both models is relatively soft, with the Mini Hammer having an even softer shaft. Therefore, players with less power or female players are recommended to choose the 6U Mini Hammer, while those with more power should consider the regular Hammer. As an entry-level offensive racket, whether for beginners or players with some experience, this racket is an excellent choice with a high cost-performance ratio.

          ③ Lining Little Cannon

          The Thunder 80 is incredibly popular, with its availability being scarce. The Thunder 50 is a mid-range offensive champion and has been extremely popular. However, many students still have a strong preference for entry-level offensive rackets. Despite budget constraints, the pursuit of aesthetics, feel, and offensive capability remains important. Hence, the Thunder Little Cannon was created.

          The Thunder Little Cannon is currently the only entry-level racket endorsed by world champion Chen Long.

          In terms of appearance, it is more attractive than the Victor 9500 and Victor Hammer. This 4U Little Cannon can handle up to 32 lbs. It has a slight weight and a head-heavy feel, with a soft and elastic shaft, making it an entry-level racket primarily for back-court offense. It is comparable to the Victor Hammer.

          The racket comes in 4U, 5U, and 6U specifications. If you need a single-player back-court offensive racket and are aiming for ultimate offense, the 4U model is suitable. For continuous smashing, the 5U is recommended, while the 6U is ideal for front-court play. As an entry-level racket endorsed by world champion Chen Long, it is highly recommended.

          ④ Kawasaki Galaxy

          With a weight of 4U and a balance point of 287mm, the distribution of balance and weight is designed for whippy action. Made from high-modulus Taimo dense nano carbon and featuring a 6.8mm uniformly elastic slim shaft, the middle shaft offers excellent elasticity, making it easier to generate power. It excels in net play for short balls, drops, slices, and pushes, and maintains an advantage in fast-paced flat drives. The low balance point emphasizes agility and control, while the box-shaped frame with wind-breaking design ensures stability during shots and maintains a high swing speed. The racket is very easy to handle, making it a true gem for casual play.

          It provides smooth and continuous net play, handles small balls effectively, and, while the 287mm balance point is not ideal for aggressive back-court attacks, it is well-suited for sharp smashes, point attacks, or net kills. It is recommended for players who enjoy doubles, quick attacks, and predominantly play at the front and middle courts.

          This concludes the recommendations for entry-level rackets under 300 yuan, including information on string tension. When choosing an entry-level racket, focus on the weight, and consider aesthetics and brand preferences. These types of rackets are all very easy to handle.

          In summary, do any of these entry-level rackets catch your eye?

          1. Recommended high-value badminton rackets for 2024

            Recommended high-value badminton rackets for 2024

            Do not blindly follow trends; there is no “best” badminton racket, only the one that suits you best.

            For beginners, whose skills are not yet fully developed, it is recommended to purchase affordable entry-level rackets. These rackets are usually made of full carbon material, with moderate weight and a balance between offense and defense, meeting the needs of most beginners.

            Today, we will recommend 6 high-value, entry-level badminton rackets:

            1.Li-Ning | Raid 1: A classic entry-level racket for beginners who prefer offensive play

            The Raid 1 is an ideal beginner racket, designed to accommodate the technical characteristics of novice players. With a flexible shaft, it supports an all-around offensive style. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, featuring high-quality carbon fiber for added rigidity. The Wing Stabilizer System ensures precise control by minimizing racket frame vibrations, making it an excellent choice for new players.

            2.Li-Ning | WS79S/H: Ultra-light 79g carbon fiber, one-piece for better stability

            The Li-Ning WS79 is an entry-level racket in the ultra-light series. As the name suggests, it emphasizes lightness, using high-strength carbon fiber. Its lightweight nature makes it easy for beginners to manage both offensive and defensive moves. The racket also has an optimized frame with a large sweet spot, making it very beginner-friendly.

            3.Victor | TK-HMR: 4U weight, high-tension capable

            The TK-HMR is another cost-effective racket suited for beginners. It features a box-shaped frame designed using aerodynamic principles, blending stability and torsional resistance. With a flexible shaft, it balances power and speed, and can handle high string tension for enhanced power shots.

            4.Victor | ARS-9 Speed: All-carbon material, ideal for beginners

            This ARS-9 Speed racket incorporates multiple advantages with a composite sword frame structure that improves stability while maintaining speed. Its carbon fiber frame and shaft make it light, elastic, and versatile for both attack and defense. This speed-oriented racket is recommended for beginners who want to enhance their speed.

            5.Yonex | NF-170LTEX Black/Blue: New fluid frame, powerful smashes

            The NF-170LT series features a new fluid frame that compresses and rebounds instantly, significantly improving swing speed and operability. This head-light racket combines power and speed, making it a perfect choice for beginners. It is a 5U ultra-light racket with a flexible shaft, delivering quick and smooth strokes.

            6.Yonex | NF-8SGE: High-elastic carbon racket, finished product

            Part of the Flash Boost series, the NF-8SGE features a one-piece T-joint design that enhances racket stability and power. The lightweight carbon shaft provides a soft, responsive feel, making it easy for beginners to execute powerful smashes. This racket is recommended for novice players who want a speed-oriented racket with excellent control.