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|---|---|---|
| Specification | Li-Ning BladeX 700 | Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play |
| Flex | stiff | medium |
| Balance | Head Light | Even |
| Weight / Grip | 3U / G5 4U / G6 5U / G6 | 4U / G5,G6 |
| Max Tension | 3U: 31 lbs 4U: 30 lbs 5U: 29 lbs | 4U: 27 lbs |
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.
BladeX 700 features a stiff shaft, while ArcSaber 11 Play uses a medium shaft. 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. By comparison, Medium flex rackets provide a balance between accuracy and repulsion. They are well-suited for intermediate players transitioning to higher levels or those who want a racket that works for both power and control without specializing too strongly in one direction..
Players who hit with full-body rotation and strong wrist snap may benefit more from the characteristics of BladeX 700, while those who prefer rallies, longer games and effortless depth will appreciate the support offered by ArcSaber 11 Play.
| Flexible | Medium | Stiff | |
|---|---|---|---|
| BladeX 700 | |||
| ArcSaber 11 Play |
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.
BladeX 700 is head light, while ArcSaber 11 Play is even. Head-light rackets are faster to maneuver and excel in quick exchanges, drive battles and defensive reactions. They support front-court play, fast interceptions, and doubles reflex shots - ideal for players who rely on speed instead of raw smash power. On the other hand, Even-balance rackets sit between power and agility, offering adaptability in offense and defense. They suit all-round players who rotate between front and back court roles. While not extreme in either direction, they offer consistent response across most shot styles..
Because their balance philosophies differ, players will instantly notice a change in tempo and swing feel when switching between them - one racket may encourage attacking play from the rear court, while the other enhances quick exchanges and defense.
| Head Light | Even | Head Heavy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Li-Ning BladeX 700 | |||
| Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play |
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.
BladeX 700 is available in 3U, 4U, 5U while ArcSaber 11 Play comes in 4U. 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.
| 2U | 3U | 4U | 5U | 6U | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Li-Ning BladeX 700 | |||||
| Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play |
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.
BladeX 700 is rated up to 31 lbs, while ArcSaber 11 Play supports 27 lbs. A higher tension range suggests better control headroom for advanced setups, whereas lower tension limits may feel more user-friendly for newer players.
Choose the lighter model for fast defense and doubles pace. Choose the heavier model for stronger smash stability and backcourt dominance.
No. Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play is more flexible with a medium flex rating, while Li-Ning BladeX 700 is stiff.
Yes. Li-Ning BladeX 700 has a head light balance, while Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play is even, making Li-Ning BladeX 700 more head-light.
Both rackets offer 4U weight class options. Li-Ning BladeX 700 also comes in 3U, 5U, which Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play does not. Overall, Li-Ning BladeX 700 offers the heaviest available option (3U), while Yonex ArcSaber 11 Play's heaviest variant is 4U.