Pool is one of the most loved cue sports in the world, with a pool table occupying spaces in youth clubs, communal workspaces, pubs, and, of course, dedicated pool halls.
As well as being common in public spaces, pool tables are now popular in homes, both for amateur competitors and families looking for a fun activity.
Whichever category you find yourself in, buying a table is an exciting decision but, considering the price these tables can reach and the space they can take up, also a large commitment. That’s why you’ll want to carefully weigh up your options before taking your pick.
This pool table buying guide will walk you through some of the major things to consider before deciding which the right table is for you, so you can be confident in your decision and get the most out of your new investment!
How much space do you need for a pool table?
Pool tables tend to be large in size. Even the smaller tables that are designed for children and teenagers take up a significant amount of space, so considering what size you can accommodate is an important process.
Deciding how much space you have for a table should involve considering not only the size of the table but also the area around it, as players will need enough space to aim and shoot the ball using a cue.
It is then the table size along with the queue size that will determine how much space you’ll need for your table and using a shorter queue will allow you to use a smaller space.
Ideal room size for pool tables
Table Size | Ideal Room Size For 58” Cues |
---|---|
3.5ft x 7ft | 13.1ft x 16.2ft |
4ft x 8ft | 13.4ft x 17ft |
4.25ft x 8.5ft | 14ft x 17.4ft |
4.5ft x 9ft | 14ft x 18ft |
- Folding pool tables can be folded and stored away
- Multi games tables let your spaces multitask
- Table top pool tables double as both pool table and dining table
Who is the pool table for?
Adults
For adults to get the full experience we would recommend a full-size table and cues, placed in a room that’s plenty big enough.
Kids
If buying for a child, the table you choose will depend on the age and size of the child you are buying for.
You should also consider how long you want the table to last, as going too small can mean that your child outgrows the table quickly. We would recommend getting the largest pool table the child is able to play on to help increase the longevity of the table.
Professional players
Will also benefit from having the right size table with the most stability, and that is made with the best performance in mind.
For a detailed breakdown of the different elements of a pool table and what makes a high-quality table, read our section on what to look for when buying a pool table.
What’s your budget?
The ideal table for you will be one within your budget and that meets as many of your requirements as possible.
Most people will start by asking ‘how much is a pool table?’ But really, the starting point should be to establish how much you are you willing to spend on one. And from there, decide what you want from your pool table and whether you’ll be able to accommodate it.
Deciding between an American or British Pool table
British table
- Generally comes in sizes: 6ft x 3ft and 7ft x 4 ft
- Uses 2” pool balls
- Most tables are supplied with 48-inch pool cues, but a full-sized cue is 57 inches. English cues also have thinner bodies and smaller tips
- Smaller pockets which are relative to the balls size
- Cloth is more textured, almost velvety to the touch. This gets worn and the table allows for a faster game with time
American table
- A full-size American pool table is 9ft in length
- Played with 2 ¾ inch pool balls in the spots & stripes style
- Larger pockets which are relative to the ball size
- Made with a smoother cloth which results in a faster game
- Cues are made with a lighter maple wood and has a larger tip
What to look for when buying a good pool table
Level
A level surface is crucial for a table to serve its purpose. The table’s ability to maintain its level will depend on its structure and the materials it is built with.
Quality
A well-built table will have a heavy solid frame legs will be built in an “H” pattern. The frame should also be at least one and a half inches in thickness and made from either solid wood or ply wood.
Find out what fastens the parts of the table together. Ideally you want to be able to disassemble and reassemble the pool table without it losing its stability. As a general rule, try to avoid tables that are held together with staples or wood screws.
Felt
The type of felt you choose will also end up determining the type of game you play. For a faster game, consider getting an American pool table which is larger and made with a smoother felt.
For a slightly slower game, choose a British pool table which is made with a more textured felt.
The higher the wool content of the felt, the more durable the material will be.
The felt should also be glued into place.
If this guide hasn’t answered all your questions about things to consider before buying your table, please contact us with any other questions you may have. You can also browse our full range of pool tables today!