A badminton racket looks simple — a stick with a hoop of string on the end — but the differences between models are the difference between a racket that feels like an extension of your arm and one that feels like a fence paling. Here's what actually matters when you're choosing one.
Weight
Rackets are marked with a "U" number: 2U (about 90–94g), 3U (85–89g), and 4U (80–84g) cover most of what you'll find in shops. Lighter rackets are easier to whip around for fast net play and defence; heavier ones carry more weight into the shuttle for power, at the cost of tiring your arm out quicker. Most club players do fine on a 3U.
Balance
This is where the weight actually sits along the shaft. Head-heavy rackets store more power for clears and smashes but are slower to bring back into position; head-light (or "even balance") rackets are quicker through the front court and kinder to your wrist over a long session. If you're not sure, even balance is the safe default.
String tension
Strung tighter, a racket gives you more control and a crisper sound off the strings, but a smaller sweet spot and more shock through your arm. Strung looser, you get more power for less effort and a more forgiving sweet spot, at the cost of precision. Most recreational players sit somewhere around 20–24 lb; tournament players often go higher.
Brands worth knowing
Yonex is the sport's dominant brand and the one you'll see most at club night. Victor and Li-Ning are the other two major players and make excellent rackets at every price point. None of this matters nearly as much as just going and hitting with a few demo rackets before you buy — your arm will know before your brain does.