Compare Yonex Astrox 02 Feel vs Li-Ning Axforce 90 New

Flex Comparison

The flex rating of a racket influences how power is generated and how the shuttle responds at contact. It plays a major role in playability, especially during smashes, drives, and defensive lifts.

Astrox 02 Feel features a flexible shaft, while Axforce 90 New uses a stiff shaft. Flexible shafts bend more easily during a swing, returning stored energy into the shuttle. This helps players generate effortless clears and lifts even without high swing speed. They reduce fatigue over long sessions and support defensive recovery, though they sacrifice some precision during hard hits. By comparison, Stiff shafts suit players who already generate power with strong technique. They offer cleaner shuttle response, better directional accuracy on drives, and enable tighter placement during attacking play. However, they demand more physical input, so beginners may find them less forgiving if contact timing is late..

Players who hit with full-body rotation and strong wrist snap may benefit more from the characteristics of Axforce 90 New, while those who prefer rallies, longer games and effortless depth will appreciate the support offered by Astrox 02 Feel.

Balance Comparison

Balance affects swing sensation, shot recovery, and how easily power transfers into the shuttle. Even a similar weight racket can feel completely different depending on where the mass is distributed.

Both rackets share a head heavy balance profile, meaning their weight distribution philosophy is similar. Head-heavy rackets shift more mass toward the frame, increasing momentum behind smashes and clears. Players who dominate from the rear court or rely on offensive pressure benefit most. However, head-heavy setups may feel slower when switching quickly between forehand and backhand defense.. In this case, differences in performance will rely more on flex, weight class, and tension settings rather than balance alone.

Weight & Maneuverability

The weight class determines how quickly a racket moves during defense and how much stability it has during smashes. Lighter frames accelerate faster, while heavier ones provide more impact stability.

Astrox 02 Feel is available in 4U while Axforce 90 New comes in 3U, 4U, 5U. A player choosing between them may decide based on whether they prioritize fast exchanges and net interceptions or power-focused shooting from the backcourt.

Lighter variants like 5U/6U emphasize maneuverability, especially valuable in doubles, defence and drive rallies. Meanwhile, 3U/4U variants carry more swing momentum, benefiting aggressive singles players who rely on steep smashes.

String Tension & Control Potential

String tension capacity affects how the shuttle feels on contact. Higher tension enhances precision but requires strength, while lower tension increases repulsion and shuttle height support.

Astrox 02 Feel is rated up to 30 lbs, while Axforce 90 New supports 31 lbs. A higher tension range suggests better control headroom for advanced setups, whereas lower tension limits may feel more user-friendly for newer players.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you want sharper control and more direct response, the stiffer racket is preferable. If you prefer effortless power production during clears and rallies, the flexible option is easier to use over longer matches.