At a glance
Every row is drawn from each sport’s own profile — no scores, just the facts side by side.
| Badminton | Squash | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Racquet Sports | Racquet Sports |
| Getting started | Beginner friendly | Some learning curve |
| Intensity | High intensity | High intensity |
| Where you play | indoor | indoor |
| Format | Singles or doubles | Singles or doubles |
| Essential kit | Badminton racquet, Shuttlecocks and Indoor court shoes | Squash racquet, Squash ball and Non-marking court shoes |
What they share
- Both are racquet sports.
- Both can be played indoors.
- Both build agility.
- Both suit people working towards improve reaction speed.
How they differ
- Badminton tends to be gentler to pick up, while Squash rewards more practice early on.
Which might suit you
There is no better or worse here — only what fits your goals, your schedule and what you enjoy.
- 1If you are brand new to sport, many people find Badminton a slightly gentler place to start.
- 2In the end, the best choice is the one you will enjoy and keep coming back to.
Explore each sport
Full beginner-friendly guides to both.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Badminton and Squash?
Both Badminton and Squash are racquet sports, so they share a lot. They differ mainly in feel and demands — the comparison above sets out how they line up on difficulty, intensity, setting and kit so you can pick what fits you.
Is Badminton or Squash easier for beginners?
Many beginners find Badminton a little easier to pick up at first, but both are approachable with a beginner lesson or a patient partner. What matters most is starting gently and building up.
Can I do both Badminton and Squash?
Yes — plenty of people enjoy both. Because they share qualities like agility, time spent on one can support the other, and mixing them keeps things varied.