Buying Guide - Finding the Best Pool Table for Your Lifestyle

When you first enter the world of indoor recreation, a pool table stands out as a source of immense pleasure and fellowship. If you are an experienced player or just looking to enhance your home parties, buying a pool table can be a great addition. 

Not only can it serve as a stylish centerpiece in your home, it can also provide countless hours of entertainment for you and your guests. Some tables, like multi-game tables, can even double as a dining room table or can house other games, too.  Overall, investing in a pool table can be a very rewarding decision.

However, the overwhelming number of options in the market can make the selection process seem daunting, if not impossible. Before making a purchase, one must consider different styles, sizes, materials, and budget options. In this manual, we'll dive deep into all the necessary information for obtaining the ideal pool table for your area.

pool accessories

Types of Pool Tables:

  1. Bumper pool tables are great for small spaces. They have obstacles along the edges, and give a unique twist to traditional pool. They are perfect for family game nights and can provide hours of entertainment for children and adults alike.
  2. Portable pool tables are light and easy to move, perfect for outdoor events to provide another aspect of fun. They're designed for convenience, which makes them ideal for transporting to different locations. 
  3. Multi-game tables are a great option for those who like variety. They can be used for different games like pool and ping pong, making them ideal for families. They can even double as a kitchen table and some even come with optional seating.
Hampton 3-In-1 Combo Game Table

Table Construction:

Manufacturers make billiard tables from different materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

  1. MDF pool tables are both affordable and lightweight, but may not last as long as tables made from other materials. These tables are ideal for families.
  2. Solid wood tables are durable and have a classic appearance. While they may be more expensive, they are long-lasting and can handle heavy use. These types of tables are perfect for the player looking for the classic pool table look.
  3. Slate is the best surface for pool tables because it is exceedingly flat and consistent. Professional players favor tables with slate tops because they offer the best playing conditions.
  4. Slatron: Manufactured "slate" for a lighter-weight, lower-cost alternative to the classic slate table.

 

Cost Range:

Billiards tables range in cost, varying from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Many factors based on size, materials, and brand influences the price of a pool table. Higher end solid wood tables with slate tops can be some of the most expensive tables, costing a player thousands of dollars. These tables are not very idea for a cost-friendly player. The least expensive tables are usually the most portable and the most versatile. 3 in 1 tables are the most cost effective for the average customer. Setting a budget that aligns with your needs and preferences before beginning your search is important, and keeps your search narrowed down.

 

pool table

Sizing:

Before you purchase a pool table, measure the space in your home to ensure it fits properly. Also, make sure there is enough room surrounding the table. This will prevent any issues with placement or accessibility once the table is in your home. As a general rule, you should allow for at least five feet of clearance on all sides to accommodate players and cue movement comfortably.

Most Billiard tables are either 7 feet or 8 feet in size, with 8 feet being the standard size for tournaments. Choosing the right size will depend on the space available in your home and your personal preferences.

 

Best Pool Table for Your Home:

  1. Young families can have a lot of fun with a bumper pool table or multi-game table. These tables are great for kids of all ages and are great at keeping kids interested with the multi-game feature. They can provide hours of entertainment for the whole family.
  2. Consider a small, easy-to-fold table that you can store away to save space when space is limited. Combo dining tables are great for small spaces. They can turn into a billiards, ping-pong, or air-hockey table. Great for saving space and having fun!
  3. Outdoor: Choose a strong table that can withstand the weather, like one made of aluminum and water-resistant cloth.

 

To sum up, the choice to purchase a pool table can provide long-term fun and amusement in your home. Consider factors like table type, build, price, room size, and household needs to choose the perfect pool table for your space.

For a wider selection of game tables, shop our site escaladesports.com/billiards shop our sister sites brunswickbilliards.com, and AmericanHertiageBilliards.com.

pool table