Best Beginner Badminton Rackets in Singapore (2025): How to Choose + Shopee vs Lazada Prices

Published on August 18, 2025

Starting badminton in Singapore and looking for your first racket? This guide distills Sport Singapore’s ActiveSG guidance and community picks, then compares typical Shopee vs Lazada prices so you can buy confidently without overpaying.

For a deeper dive, see our complete guide on how to choose a badminton racket.

Quick Picks: The Best Beginner Rackets in Singapore Right Now

Top value under S$60

• Yonex Nanoflare Light 18i or Yonex Nanoray Light 20i: Often drop below S$60 after vouchers on Shopee or Lazada, making them strong value picks for Singapore beginners. Lightweight, head-light to even balance, and a flexible shaft that’s forgiving as you build technique.
• Apacs beginner rackets (e.g., Z Ziggler Lite, Dual Power): Budget-friendly, flexible, and usually even balance. Great as an affordable first racket if you buy from reputable stores.

Tip: Prices fluctuate with voucher stacking and flash sales. Always check final checkout price including shipping fees.

Best for easy power

• Yonex Astrox Smash: Lightweight but more head-heavy for extra punch on clears and smashes—useful if you want easy power without tiring your arm.
• Li-Ning Wind Lite 700: Even balance with a flexible shaft helps generate power while keeping handling user-friendly.

Lightest option for arm comfort

• Yonex Nanoflare Light 18i: Very light (5U/6U class) and head-light for quicker swings and lower fatigue.
• Li-Ning Wind Lite 800: Lightweight with a flexible profile for easy maneuvering in defense and doubles.

How to Choose a Beginner Badminton Racket

Guidance below aligns with ActiveSG (Sport Singapore) advice for beginners.

Weight guide: 5U/6U for lower fatigue

• What it means: 5U ≈ 75–79 g, 6U ≈ 70–74 g (unstrung). Lighter rackets reduce arm fatigue and are easier to swing—ideal while you’re learning timing and technique.
• Why it matters: A lighter racket helps you react faster at the net and in defense, and it’s gentler on your wrist and shoulder during longer sessions.

Balance: head-light vs even balance

• Head-light: Faster handling and easier defense; great for doubles and quick drives. Many beginner-friendly models are head-light.
• Even balance: A safe middle ground that still offers stability and some power, without feeling sluggish. A good “do-it-all” choice.

Shaft flexibility and forgiveness

Flexible shaft: More forgiving of off-center hits and imperfect timing; helps beginners learn correct swing mechanics. Stiffer shafts reward precise technique but are harder to use early on.

Grip size and injury prevention

• Choose a grip size that allows you to comfortably wrap your index finger between the fingers and palm when holding the handle. Too large or too small can strain your forearm and lead to injury.
• You can slightly upsize with an overgrip; avoid overbuilding the handle.

Strings and tension: start at 20–24 lbs

• Start around 20–24 lbs: Lower tension offers a bigger sweet spot and is more forgiving (good for developing consistency). Higher tension provides more control but punishes off-center hits.
• String type also affects feel; durability-focused strings are fine while you’re learning.

Top Beginner Models and Typical Singapore Prices

Note: Prices vary by seller, vouchers, and shipping. Always compare final checkout totals and authenticity guarantees. Price ranges below are observed examples; last checked August 2025.

Shopee vs Lazada: Getting the Best Final Price

Voucher stacking and flash sale timing

• Stack platform, seller, and bank vouchers where possible; promos can change daily. Identical items often cost different amounts across platforms due to voucher stacks and seller promos.
• Watch common flash-sale periods (e.g., mid-month/payday, “double-day” events). Local forums report frequent deals on these dates.

Check shipping fees and final checkout price

• Compare the all-in price at checkout (including shipping and fees), not just the list price. News coverage notes shipping and voucher eligibility significantly change the final price.
• Compare across multiple sellers and both platforms before committing.

Shop badges: Shopee Mall vs LazMall

• Shopee Mall and LazMall stores are typically official or authorized, offering better authenticity and warranty support.
• If buying outside Mall stores, scrutinize ratings, recent reviews, and return policies.

Avoiding Counterfeits and Ensuring Authenticity

Consumer bodies in Singapore advise caution on online marketplaces.

Buy from official/authorized stores

Prefer Shopee Mall/LazMall, brand flagship stores, or known authorized retailers for branded rackets. This reduces counterfeit risk and improves aftersales support.

Check seller ratings, warranty, serials

Look for high ratings and detailed recent reviews with photos. Verify warranty and product serial numbers where applicable; be wary of “too good to be true” prices.

Return policies and platform guarantees

Review the platform’s authenticity guarantees, return windows, and dispute resolution options before purchase.

Authenticity checklist:

• Buy from Shopee Mall/LazMall or brand-authorized stores
• Read recent buyer reviews and photos
• Confirm warranty coverage and serial verification
• Compare price against typical market ranges
• Know the return/refund process before checkout

Where to Try Before You Buy

Decathlon Singapore for hands-on testing

Decathlon (Perfly brand) carries beginner-friendly models like BR 100/BR 160 that are light, flexible, and budget-friendly. You can try different weights and grips in-store before purchasing.

Queensway and specialty shops for fittings

Visit Queensway Shopping Centre or badminton specialty shops for on-the-spot advice, grip sizing, and stringing. Some players test in-store, then buy online if there’s a significant, legitimate price difference.

Beginner FAQ (Singapore)