Still Undecided Between 3u And 4u?

An 8-Second Guide to Understanding Badminton Racket Weight

Still undecided between 3U and 4U?
You’re not alone.

Many players choose a badminton racket based on brand, looks, or popularity, but get completely confused when they see markings like 3U, 4U, 5U, or even 6U.
In reality, these labels are simply weight classifications for an unstrung racket—and they have a huge impact on how the racket feels and performs on court.

What Do 3U, 4U, 5U, and 6U Actually Mean?

These “U” ratings indicate the bare racket weight (without strings or grip):

• 6U: ≤ 70–74 g

• 5U: 75–79 g

• 4U: 80–84 g

• 3U: 85–89 g

Important rule:
👉 The smaller the number, the lighter the racket.
👉 The larger the number, the heavier the racket.

How Weight Affects Performance (What Most Players Don’t Realize)

Based on testing and player feedback:

• For every 5 g reduction in racket weight:

  • Smash initial speed drops by roughly 2–4%

  • Frame vibration increases noticeably

  • The sweet spot becomes smaller and less forgiving

This is why ultra-light rackets feel fast—but also harsher on off-center hits.

How Each Weight Class Feels on Court

6U – Ultra-Lightweight Rackets (70–74 g)

Pros

• Extremely fast swing speed

• Effortless defense, quick reactions, easy net play

Cons

• Limited smash power

• High vibration on mishits

• Small sweet spot, low stability

👉 Best for beginners with very low strength, or pure speed-focused play.

5U – Lightweight Rackets (75–79 g)

Pros

• Fast handling at the front court

• Excellent for quick interceptions and flat exchanges

• Popular among recreational female players and front-court doubles players

Cons

• Can feel “too light” or unstable, especially with stiff shafts

• Hard strings may transmit more shock to the wrist

👉 Great for players who value speed over raw power.

4U – The Modern Standard (80–84 g)

Pros

• Balanced attack and defense

• Comfortable for long sessions

• Stable sweet spot with manageable vibration

• Solid smash power without excessive fatigue

👉 Ideal for about 90% of technically stable amateur players

This is the most versatile and forgiving weight category on today’s market.

3U – Heavier Rackets (85–89 g)

Pros

• Maximum smash power

• Largest sweet spot

• Best stability and lowest vibration

Cons

• Requires good strength and technique

• Poor form can lead to faster fatigue or injury

👉 Best suited for strong, experienced players, especially back-court attackers.

How to Choose the Right Weight for You

Before asking “Which racket model is best?”, ask yourself these three questions:

1️⃣ How strong are you?

• Rarely train, arms fatigue easily → Start with 4U–5U

• Regular training, good physical base → 4U or 3U

2️⃣ Where do you play most on court?

• Front court, defense, fast net play → 5U or lighter 4U

• All-round play (singles & doubles) → 4U

• Back-court attacker, heavy smash focus → Heavier 4U or 3U

3️⃣ Do you have any previous injuries?

• Wrist or elbow issues → Avoid jumping straight to 3U, especially with high string tension

• Heavy rackets + stiff shafts + high tension = higher injury risk

Practical Recommendations

• Recreational players / juniors / front-court doubles:
  👉 4U–5U (most recommended)

• Most technically stable male amateurs / all-round players:
  👉 4U

• Power players / singles back-court attackers:
  👉 3U (preferably head-heavy)

Final Advice

Next time you choose a racket, don’t just ask:

“Which model is the best?”

Get the weight right first.
Then move on to balance point, shaft stiffness, and frame design.

When the weight matches your body and playing style,
you’ll adapt faster, play longer, and feel more comfortable on court.