Nothing beats a bit of friendly competition in the backyard. Badminton is easy to pick up, gets you moving, and doesn’t need a ton of space. But a flimsy net or cheap rackets can ruin the fun fast. So, finding a decent badminton set is key to enjoying those summer evenings.
I’ve tested a bunch of sets to find the best options for different needs and budgets. From casual games to more serious play, here are my top picks to get you started.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Franklin Sports Badminton/Volleyball Combo Set: Best overall for versatility.
- ZENY Portable Badminton Net Set: Great for portability and easy setup.
- Yonex Badminton Set with Net: Ideal for players seeking higher quality rackets.
- Boulder Badminton Set: A solid choice for beginners and families.
- RSL Badminton Set: Best for advanced players.
Top 5 Best Badminton Sets for Backyard
Franklin Sports Badminton/Volleyball Combo Set
This set is more than just badminton; it’s a whole backyard sports package. You get a net that can be adjusted for badminton or volleyball, plus rackets, birdies, and a volleyball. It’s a great option if you want to switch things up.
Pros:
- ✅ Versatile combo set for badminton and volleyball.
- ✅ Adjustable net height.
- ✅ Includes all necessary equipment for both sports.
Cons:
- ❌ Net quality is decent, not professional-grade.
- ❌ Rackets are suitable for casual play, but not for serious badminton.
- ❌ Setup can be a bit fiddly the first time.
Verdict: A good choice if you want a multi-sport set for casual backyard fun. It’s not the highest quality, but it’s a good value for the price.
ZENY Portable Badminton Net Set
This badminton set shines when it comes to portability. The whole set packs into a compact carrying bag, making it easy to take to the park, beach, or a friend’s house. The net is easy to set up and takedown.
Pros:
- ✅ Very portable and easy to carry.
- ✅ Quick and easy setup and takedown.
- ✅ Sturdy net construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Rackets are basic and not ideal for advanced players.
- ❌ Birdies are plastic, which can be affected by wind.
- ❌ Net height might not be adjustable.
Verdict: This is perfect if you need a badminton set that’s easy to transport and set up anywhere. Great for casual games on the go.
Yonex Badminton Set with Net
If you’re looking for quality rackets, this Yonex set is a step up. Yonex is a well-known brand in badminton, and their rackets are known for being lightweight and durable. The net is also of decent quality, making it a good choice for more serious players.
Pros:
- ✅ High-quality Yonex rackets for better performance.
- ✅ Durable and well-constructed net.
- ✅ Suitable for players with some experience.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than other sets.
- ❌ May not include extra birdies.
- ❌ Set up could be difficult for beginners.
Verdict: If you’re serious about badminton and want better quality equipment, this Yonex set is worth the investment. The rackets will make a noticeable difference in your game.
Boulder Badminton Set
The Boulder Badminton Set is a great package for families and beginners. It includes everything you need to get started: a net, rackets, and birdies. The equipment is durable and designed for casual play, making it a good choice for those new to the game.
Pros:
- ✅ Complete set with everything you need.
- ✅ Durable construction for outdoor use.
- ✅ Easy to assemble.
Cons:
- ❌ Rackets are not high-performance.
- ❌ Birdies are plastic and may not perform well in wind.
- ❌ Net is adequate, but not professional-grade.
Verdict: Ideal for families and beginners who want a simple, affordable badminton set for casual backyard games. Easy to set up and use right away.
RSL Badminton Set
For the more advanced players, the RSL Badminton Set is a solid choice. RSL is known for quality badminton equipment, and this set reflects that. Expect better performance and durability compared to entry-level sets.
Pros:
- ✅ High-quality rackets for advanced play.
- ✅ Durable birdies designed for better flight.
- ✅ Suitable for competitive players.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point.
- ❌ May not be necessary for casual players.
- ❌ Net not included.
Verdict: Best for serious badminton players who want quality equipment to improve their game. Be aware that this set does not include a net.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right badminton set can feel overwhelming, but here’s a simple guide to help you make the best choice.
- Consider your skill level: Are you a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player? Beginner sets are more affordable, but serious players will want better quality rackets.
- Think about portability: Do you need a set that’s easy to transport? If so, look for a portable set with a carrying bag.
- Check the net quality: A sturdy net is essential for a good game. Look for nets with durable poles and tight mesh.
- Consider the birdies: Plastic birdies are more durable, but feather birdies offer better flight performance.
- Set your budget: Badminton sets range in price from affordable to expensive. Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you start shopping.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about badminton sets:
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What’s the difference between plastic and feather birdies?
Plastic birdies are more durable and less expensive, making them ideal for casual play. Feather birdies offer better flight performance and are preferred by more serious players.
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How high should a badminton net be?
The standard height for a badminton net is 5 feet 1 inch (1.55 meters) at the posts and 5 feet (1.524 meters) in the center.
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What should I look for in a badminton racket?
Look for a racket that’s lightweight, has a good grip, and is made of durable materials like graphite or aluminum. The right weight and balance will depend on your playing style.
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How do I set up a badminton net?
Most sets come with instructions. Generally, you’ll need to assemble the poles, insert them into the ground, and then attach the net to the poles. Make sure the net is taut and at the correct height.
Conclusion
A good badminton set can bring hours of fun to your backyard. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect set for your needs, whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned pro. Consider what features are most important to you and choose a set that fits your budget and skill level. Get ready to enjoy some friendly competition!
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