Pool Table Buying Guide

Design: Benning Design

Cue sports, like billiards, have been around for centuries and makes a great addition to any game room or bonus area in the home. There are a range of pool table sizes, styles, and price ranges to choose from, to find the perfect table that your family will get enjoyment out of for years to come. Keep reading to learn about pool table sizes, types, styles, and more.

Pool Table Sizes

Standard : At 8 feet long, this is the typical size you will see in homes or small bars. Standard size tables are best for most bonus rooms, basements, or game rooms. This size provides a happy medium between large tables, which are easier to play on, and smaller tables that save on space.

Large : Larger 9-foot and 10-foot tables are often used in pool halls or billiards rooms.

Bar : Bar tables are 7 feet in length which makes them a great option for smaller spaces.

Mini : These tables are anything that is less than 7 feet in length including portable and tabletop models.

Table Construction

Surfaces

• Slate is considered the best and most durable surface for billiards, but is also the most expensive. It is the only surface approved for professional billiards because it provides an optimal roll for the ball and the weight of the material keeps it level longer.
• Slate-alternative tables or three-piece slate tables provide a similar quality and weight at a more affordable price.
• MDF or wooden bed surface beneath the cloth is much more affordable and comprises most of the tables available on the market.

Fabrics

Most pool table surfaces are covered with a blend of wool and nylon for maximum playability and durability. There is a range of quality levels, from tournament-quality felt wool billiard cloth to spill-resistant blends for recreational use.

Frames

Frames generally come in three main types: solid, manufactured, and metal. Solid wood frames provide the best support and durability, especially with a slate surface. Manufactured and metal tables often come with an MDF surface for a more affordable option.

Styles

• Felt Color : Choose from a variety of felt colors for the play top of your pool table; green or red felt looks vintage and traditional while camel or khaki creates a more subdued look.
• Finish : There is a range of finishes available for pool tables. The most traditional is a black finish or a medium wood stain however, there are also metal tables that feature custom designs or sports team logos for the ultimate game room look.

Tip!

Measure first! Make sure to measure the dimensions of the room before purchasing a pool table. Also take into account the length of the cue sticks and any obstacles that could affect the game, such as columns, built-ins, or partial walls.

Features

Drop Pockets : For a more traditional style, consider a pool table with drop pockets. This usually consists of a net on each corner of the table that you can manually grab the ball from.

Auto Ball Return : This is a great option for faster games, however this feature is generally only available on large or standard-size pool tables.

Eco-friendly : Some pool tables are designed with eco-friendly materials, such as recycled teak wood.

Outdoor : These pool tables are generally made of metal for greater durability out in the elements. Consider a pool table cover as well to extend the life of your pool table. 

Pool Accessories

Keep in mind the range of accessories you will need for a pool table. Here is a list of the basic tools and accessories you will need for a standard billiards game.

• Pool cues​
• Cue racks
•  Table brushes
•  Cue chalk
• Billiard balls
•  Bridge sticks
• Pool ball racks/triangle
• Table covers