The massive tables seen in bars and billiard halls are what most people think of when they imagine what is needed to play pool. However, you don’t need to renovate your house to enjoy the game at home. From traditional tables to smaller ones that can slide under a bed, there's a wide range of pool table options. Often the centerpiece of the home game room, having a pool table will keep you and your guests entertained for years to come.
The most important consideration to make while shopping for a pool table is size. Tables used in professional tournaments are nine feet long, while those found in most bars and homes are eight feet long. However, smaller tables are available to accommodate those who don’t have the space needed for furniture of that size.
Keep in mind that you need additional room around the table to allow players to comfortably stand beside it and use their pool cues.
Pool tables that fold up are easy to store and relocate if you need the room for other activities. Thin and light, these tables are great for players who don’t want to make the game a permanent fixture in their home.
Wood pool tables are classy additions to your game room, but they’re bulky and heavy. If you’re looking for something less substantial, select a metal or composite plastic table.
Traditionalists may opt for the classic green felt seen on most pool tables. If you prefer a unique look or wish to match the rest of a room’s decor, you can find tables in a variety of colors.
Some tables can be used to play games other than pool. Depending on the one you choose, you can play air hockey, pingpong and more by swapping playing surfaces. There are even options that rotate to let you play different games on the other side of the table.
Selecting a pool table that includes balls, racks, cues and other accessories lets you get right to the fun without having to make additional investments. New players will find a lot of value in these sets, but those who take the game more seriously know that discovering and using their preferred cue requires buying one separately.
A proper game of pool requires a level playing surface. Pool tables include either leg levelers or shims to let you make adjustments as needed. A level table ensures a fair game even in rooms where the floor itself may be slightly angled. Keep in mind, however, that most levelers only allow for minor adjustments.
A. Large tournament tables will likely need to be disassembled to fit through the doors and hallways of your home. Foldable tables are easier to navigate around walls and furniture, but you will still need to carefully measure and plan your route to make sure you won’t get stuck or accidentally damage your walls.
A. Maintain your pool table by using a table brush after every play session. Depending on what your table is made of, you can maintain its hard surfaces by gently rubbing them with a soft cloth and wood or window cleaner. Use a billiard table cover to prevent dust accumulation.
A. Use a bubble level to check your table from multiple angles. Use your table’s included levelers to raise or lower different parts of the surface where required.
With its cherry and maple wood veneer, this pool table makes a bold statement in any game room. Decorative pockets, classy red felt and pearlized inlays will satisfy serious players and amateurs alike.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Rack Triad 3-in-1 Billiard Table
This table includes everything you need to play pool, pingpong and even air hockey. Its unique rotating top makes it a breeze to switch from one game to another and its storage features keep all of your equipment organized.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
This foldable pool table comes in two sizes. Available in either black or red, it comes with balls, a ball rack, two cues, chalk and a felt brush.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Hathaway Fairmont Portable Six-foot Pool Table
Available in blue or red, this foldable table includes an accessory set to get you in the game as soon as you set it up. It does not require assembly and slips into a large bag for safe storage and transport.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
With 32 pieces of gear, this set is a great value. It’s the perfect compliment if you buy a table that does not include balls, cues, a brush and chalk.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Hathaway Deluxe Billiards Accessory Kit
This kit includes all of the gear required to play pool. It features racks you can mount to your wall to hold your cues as well as an official rule book.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Derek Walborn writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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