Take the Royal Padel M27 at AED 399 if you are buying your first racket and want the largest possible margin for error. Take the StarVie Dronos Galaxy at AED 269 if you have had a few months of lessons and want to save AED 130. Both are good first rackets, and the M27 is the more forgiving of the two.
Side by side
| Royal Padel M27 | StarVie Dronos Galaxy | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | AED 399 (was 799) | AED 269 (was 899) |
| Shape | Round | Round to teardrop |
| Core | Polyethylene (softer) | EVA |
| Level | Beginner to intermediate | Intermediate |
| In stock | 2 | 5 |
Why the M27 costs more and is still the safer buy
Two things. The head is fully round, which puts the sweet spot dead centre — exactly where a new player is most likely to make contact. And the core is polyethylene rather than EVA, which is softer again: gentler on impact, less shock into the elbow, more tolerant when your timing is not there yet.
You give up power on the smash for both of those. In a first year that is a trade worth making every time, because you are not yet generating the swing speed a firm core rewards, and you are more exposed to the arm problems that come from a stiff frame and a developing technique.
Why the Dronos Galaxy is the better value
It is the cheapest racket in our entire catalogue and it is Spanish-made. At AED 269 it costs less than three court bookings. It is a touch less forgiving than the M27 and a touch more capable once you improve, which means it stays useful slightly longer.
If AED 130 matters, or you want to spend the difference on lessons, this is the sensible pick. Lessons will improve your game faster than either racket will.
How to decide
Have you had coaching, or played more than about ten times? Take the Dronos.
Are you starting from zero? Take the M27. The extra forgiveness is worth more to you right now than the AED 130.
The honest caveat
Neither is a racket to keep for five years. Most players outgrow this level within a year of regular play, once they find the middle of the face consistently and start wanting more power. At these prices that is fine — spend the difference on court time. Only two M27 units remain; it is a limited edition run.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best first padel racket under AED 400?
The Royal Padel M27 at AED 399, for its round head and soft core. The Dronos Galaxy at AED 269 is the better value if you have some experience.
Is a round racket really easier?
Yes. A round head puts the sweet spot in the centre of the face, which keeps mishits in play.
How long will either last?
Comfortably a first year of regular play with a protector fitted and sensible storage out of direct heat.
See all beginner padel rackets or everything under AED 400.