Choose with confidence

Clearances, regulation heights, slate thickness and cue weights explained for families and league players.

Billiards

Pool tables, cues, shafts, tips, balls, chalk and cue cases.

Choose a pool cue: weights from 18 to 21 ounces, maple vs low-deflection vs carbon shafts, tip diameter and hardness, joints, wraps and break cues.

Buying guidePool Table Room Size Chart

Room size

Room sizes for 7, 8 and 9 foot pool tables with 48, 52 and 58 inch cues, how to measure, and what to do when your room is a little short.

ComparisonSlate vs Non-Slate Pool Tables

Table construction

Slate vs MDF and other non-slate pool tables compared: flatness, ball roll, weight, installation, durability, price and which suits families or serious players.

Darts

Bristle and electronic dartboards, steel-tip and soft-tip darts, flights, shafts and cabinets.

Darts hub →

Buying guideDartboard Height and Throw Line Distance for Steel and Soft Tip

Dartboard setup

Dartboard setup measurements: 5 ft 8 in bullseye height, 7 ft 9.25 in steel-tip and 8 ft soft-tip throw lines, diagonal check, wall protection and lighting.

Table games

Foosball, air hockey, shuffleboard, bubble hockey and multi-game tables.

Table games hub →

ComparisonFoosball vs Air Hockey Tables

Table games

Foosball and air hockey tables compared: sizes and clearances, build quality, maintenance, noise, power needs and what separates a toy from a real table.

Arcade & room

Arcade cabinets, pinball machines, lighting, cue racks and game room layout.

Arcade & room hub →

Buying guideHow to Lay Out a Game Room

Room planning

Plan a game room: clearances for pool tables, darts, foosball and arcade cabinets, traffic paths, lighting, flooring, power outlets and noise.