If you’re looking for an alternative to Yonex, then Carlton badminton rackets might well fit the bill. Carlton are badminton specialists, they only make badminton products, unlike many of their competitors. This approach has allowed them to create high-quality rackets, packed with innovative technology.

The new Carlton range features the Fireblade and Aeroblade series, which recently replaced the older Powerblades and Airblades. Prices range from £80 for the flagship Fireblade Elite, to around £30 for the bottom of the range Aeroblade. A welcome addition to the Carlton range is the isometric head shape. Almost the entire range has this alternative, and it is comparable to Yonex rackets. The isometric head offers a larger sweet spot, making off-center shots a little more forgiving and helping you get more consistent power.

The Fireblade range has proven to be very successful and is geared towards the more advanced player. Aeroblade rackets are aimed at intermediate players, but in all honesty, if you have good technique, you can use almost any badminton racket and be successful.

Carlton has had some quality issues in the past, especially where the shaft meets the handle. A bit of glue usually fixes this, but you really shouldn’t have to. You can contact Carlton and you will get an answer. As long as you haven’t destroyed the racket, you should get a replacement.

Now that Carlton has these new ranges, the old Powerblade and Airblade rackets will be phased out. This provides a great opportunity to save some money as these badminton rackets will be heavily discounted if you shop hard enough.

The most expensive Carlton technology is nanopulse carbon, which can also be seen in many Yonex rackets. Nano technology is the most popular at the moment, until the next generation arrives, which happens every two years.

If you want an affordable alternative to high-priced Yonex products, then by all means take a look at Carlton badminton rackets, which thousands already own.